Sydney has some of the finest coastal spots in Australia, and there are so many stretches of sand to choose from. Whether you’re a surfer dude or a sun worshipper, there’s a perfect beach for you.
Here are some of our favourite beaches in Sydney…
BONDI BEACH
It’s only right to start with this one. Bondi is one of the best beaches in Sydney thanks to its golden sand, great surf and, of course, its eye-candy lifeguards. If the water doesn’t beckon you, there’s a running track, the famous Icebergs sea pool, and plenty of trendy bars and restaurants too. Visiting in the southern hemisphere winter? Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a minke whale just beyond the breakers.
Bondi Route, Stop: Bondi Beach
MANLY BEACH
If you’re new to the world of surfing, the gentler swells of Manly could help you get in some practice. This is a long stretch of sand, with scenic walking routes behind the beach itself. Walking or cycling is a great way to explore all the hidden coves and bays in the area, which are perfect for a picnic.
COOGEE BEACH
This beach is where the locals come to hang out and have fun – so make this your first choice if you want to experience the laid back Aussie lifestyle. There are a couple of ocean baths here too where you can enjoy a soothing swim in placid water. It’s the perfect place to take the kids.
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BALMORAL BEACH
If you’ve brought the little ones to Sydney, you should introduce them to Balmoral. This shallow sloping beach has gentle currents that are perfect for paddlers, and there’s lots of parkland behind the beach to explore too. Watersports on offer here include scuba diving and sailing, so you can keep all the family entertained.
PALM BEACH
Hiring a car? Here’s a place that’s worth the petrol money. Palm Beach is Sydney’s most northerly beach, and the glittering sands and clear waters make it a sublime place to kick back for the day. There’s good surfing towards the northern end of the beach, plus a generous handful of restaurants and cafes nearby. Fans of soap opera Home & Away may be interested to know that Palm Beach is used for exterior shots of fictional Summer Bay.
AVALON BEACH
With its headland and sandbank, Avalon is fast becoming the surfers’ favourite. The local geography helps to create classic tube waves, and you’ll see surfers vie for position to catch the next one. If you’re going to join them, make sure you know what you’re doing. And brush up on your surfers’ etiquette, as it can get crowded among the breakers.
BRONTE BEACH
With fewer visitors and a more intimate atmosphere, pint-sized Bronte feels like Sydney’s little secret. When you’re strolling the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk you’ll come across Bronte. The surf looks imposing at first sight, and it can be powerful, but there’s a child-friendly natural ocean pool and a saltwater pool to enjoy too.
COLLAROY BEACH
With its gentle swells, Collaroy is just the place for beginner surfers – and it offers good swimming conditions too. This peach-hued beach also has a freewheeler wheelchair that can go into the water. You’ll find a café, a few restaurants and a cinema here too.
CRONULLA BEACH
South of the city centre, and accessible by train, Cronulla is a magnet for Australia’s surfing community. But you don’t have to know your way around a board to enjoy this bay. There are lots of picturesque walking trails fringed by water and you might just catch a glimpse of dolphins frolicking in the waves.
Grab your sunnies and your suncream and relax on Sydney’s best beaches. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a packed day of sightseeing. Check out our Sydney bus routes and attractions for more holiday inspiration.
