It’s a tough job narrowing down the best beaches in Sydney, but we love a challenge. As the capital of New South Wales and the country’s most densely populated city, there’s an abundance of urban attractions. But away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD (Central Business District), there is sun, sea and sand in spades. Fire up the barbecue at Bronte Beach – where you can watch salty-haired surfers race for the waves – or snorkel along the jagged coastline of Shelly Beach. The hidden harbour of Parsley Bay is a must-visit (the park and swimming enclosure are part of the Parsley Bay Nature Reserve), as is Bondi’s iconic stretch of sand. Not sure where to take your first dip? Read on for a roundup of the best beaches in Sydney…
- Best for brunch… Bondi Beach
- Best for barbecues… Bronte Beach
- Best for snorkelling…Shelly Beach
- Best for surfing… Avalon Beach
- Best for picnics… Parsley Bay Beach
- Best for sunbathing… Store Beach
Best for brunch… Bondi Beach
Where better to begin our list of the best beaches in Sydney than with the world-renowned Bondi Beach? A short train and bus ride from the city centre, Bondi offers boutique shops, ocean-front restaurants and Instagram-worthy brunch spots, all just a stone’s throw from its honey-hued sands. Avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a private weekday surf lesson, or hire a surfboard from one of the many nearby premium rental shops. With the Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club (established in 1907 and the oldest surf lifesaving club in Australia) on site, you’ll be in safe hands. Still not convinced? Tighten your goggles and head to the beach’s southern end to swim some laps at the famous Bondi Icebergs, or stretch your legs on the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk which boasts scenic cliffside views.
Best for barbecues… Bronte Beach
Let’s talk beachfront barbecues. With a lush picnic area overlooking the glassy ocean, a natural rock pool and – most importantly – an abundance of outdoor barbecues, Bronte Beach definitely deserves a spot in the list of best beaches in Sydney. It’s one of five sun-kissed beaches that border the Bondi to Coogee walk. Nestled in the southeastern suburbs, it serves as the ideal spot for a friendly get-together. Dip into a hidden favourite among locals and make a pit stop at the charming Bronte Waterfall, just a five-minute walk from the main beach. Are you spending Christmas down under? Bronte Beach is renowned for drawing in large crowds during its Christmas Day festive beach party, but be warned – personal space is not guaranteed.
Best for snorkelling…Shelly Beach
Next up on our list of the best beaches in Sydney is Shelly Beach. True to its name, the coastline is formed from finely crushed shells. Just a ferry ride from the CBD, it lies about two miles south of central Manly and a 15-minute walk from Manly Beach. Like the rare treasures that make up its shore, Shelly Beach is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil alternative to its famous Manly neighbour. Despite being a secluded spot, you’ll find plenty of company beneath the water’s surface, where vibrant marine life thrives. Shelly Beach is part of Cabbage Tree Bay (a protected marine reserve) and it attracts snorkellers and divers alike on the lookout for Maori wrasse, Port Jackson sharks, sea dragons, fan-bellied leatherjackets (not to be mistaken for your latest staple winter coat) and many more scaly friends.
Best for surfing… Avalon Beach
Surfing is integral to Australia’s culture so a visit to one of Sydney’s finest surf spots is a must. Avalon Beach, located north of Sydney’s CBD and bordered by sun-baked sandstone cliffs, is known for its strong swells which have attracted the likes of Kelly Slater (11-time World Surf League Champion), who owned a property next to the amber stretch of sand for over a decade. In addition to natural beauty, the beach boasts a rich archaeological history and is home to the Angophora Reserve which is home to an abundance of native flora and fauna as well as an ancient aboriginal shelter. If you’re keen to surf and avoid the ankle biters (tiny waves), we’d recommend adding Avalon Beach to your list of must-visit beaches in Sydney.
Best for picnics… Parsley Bay Beach
One of Sydney’s best-kept secrets (but we’re letting you in on it) is Parsley Bay Beach – a prime spot for a wholesome family day out. The swimming enclosure forms part of Parsley Bay’s nature reserve and features viridescent water and silky sand; is there a more picturesque picnic view? You’ll also find a quaint green park, cute cafe, shady picnic spots and, of course, sun-dappled cool water. Drained from all that swimming? Take a stroll along the 100-year-old suspended wooden bridge stretching above the water (just try not to fall in). For a retreat away from the busier coastlines, Parsley Bay is a real winner.
Best for sunbathing… Store Beach
For a dose of pure vitamin sea, hop in the nearest kayak (or hire one from Manly Kayak Centre) and paddle 20 minutes from Manly Wharf to Store Beach. A true hidden haven, this beach is only accessible via water. Despite its proximity to the famed Sydney Harbour, Store Beach promises empty, pristine sand, ideal for some undisturbed sunbathing far removed from the busier beaches in Sydney. Where better to enjoy a romantic date? Don’t get too comfortable, though – the fairy penguins will waddle in for nightfall, so the beach can’t be accessed after dusk.
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Lucy Laucht
