15 Best Beaches in Sydney, Australia

Sydney,  the capital of New South Wales,  is one of the largest cities in Australia. It is known as The Harbour City but the beaches here are definitely more popular! There are over 100 beaches ranging in size and uniqueness along the Pacific Ocean coastline.

1. Bondi Beach

Though it is very crowded, it has its own popular charm. The turquoise waters and the golden sand here is a heaven for surfers, sunbathers, and swimmers alike. Go here mid-week or early in the day to make the best of this beach.

At Bondi beach, engage in activities like taking a ‘learn to surf class’, a coastal walk to Bronte or Coogee, or Sculpture by the Sea. Also, sit back and notice its stylish residents.

Manly is another iconic beach. Reach by a ferry from Circular Quay to make it all the more stunning.

2. Manly Beach

From sunbathing or beach volleyball to stand-up paddle boarding, you can do anything. If you want to try surfing, the Manly Surf School will help you out. You also should try some 'fish and chips' with your drinks here. There are numerous shops and cafes here.

This is one of the most accessible beaches in the city. You can even walk to this beach from Bondi.

3. Bronte Beach

Bronte is a lovely and quiet beach where you can relax in its natural and protected rock pools. It is definitely a family friendly beach where you can set up picnics and barbecues in the nearby park. There are numerous cafes here where you can feast.

This beach is mostly famous for surfing, the north side for the experts and the southern side for the newbies.

4. Avalon Beach

The beauty of this beach had impressed the directors of Baywatch in the ‘90s so much that they were thinking of filming it here. You’ll agree when you visit this beauty.

5. Shelly Beach

As it is a part of the Cabbage Tree Bay aquatic reserve, it is a hot spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its rich marine life includes over 500 marine species.

Shelly beach is a little secluded and can be reached by a ferry or by walking south along Manly’s main street. This picturesque beach is perfect for a picnic or relaxing with your loved ones. It is one of the west-facing beaches so do not miss the stunning sunset!

6. Palm Beach

This beach became very popular after starring in the “Home and Away” show. It is pure 2.3 km of bliss and postcard-perfect beauty! There are numerous activities like kayaking, cruising, shopping, and dining in some amazing restaurants. It also has a golf course here. The beach is mostly crowded with elite people and you might even spot a celebrity!

This secluded narrow beach has maintained its serenity although it’s close to Bondi. You can peacefully sunbathe in this small 80-metre beach.

Tamarama Beach

It is fondly known as “Glamarama” by the locals. It is not recommended for amateur swimmers to go in the water as there are some tough waves here.

Bilgola Beach

This hidden beach is the easiest to miss! It is literally located behind a palm tree jungle and at the bottom of a hill. This beach has one of the most stunning sunrises in the whole city.

It is a well-kept secret by the locals. Do remember to watch out for the flags as the waves can get rough beyond that.

This beautiful family beach is known as the birthplace of surfing in Australia. Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku first surfed here in 1914. At the northern end, there is a 50 m eight-lane ocean pool which is perfect for swimming. Take a dip and relax in those stunning waters.

9. Freshwater Beach

Clovelly Beach

Clovelly is a small beach located between two tall rocky ridges. The narrow bay beach has protected waters which are suitable for swimming.

This place is popular among snorkelers because of the calmness here.

11. Milk Beach

It is located inside the Sydney Harbour National Park, behind the heritage Strickland House. It is only a 15 minute drive from Bondi. It offers unobstructed views of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Tower, and the Sydney Opera House. This quaint beach is deserted round the year, except in summer. In summers, the whole beach turns into a party place.

This one is a small family-friendly beach. It has gentle waves hence used as a training spot for divers. Remember to get your own umbrellas as there are very less shade places. It has one of the most breathtaking views of Sydney.

12. Camp Cove

This beach boasts of crystal clear waters and is a gem among the north shore beaches. This beach is situated near Taronga Zoo. It is suitable for kayaking, windsurfing, and stand up paddle boarding. There are netted areas where swimming is safe.

13. Balmoral Beach

It is located in the Royal National Park. If you want to avoid the crowd and relax while watching the spectacular views, this is it! The only catch is that you’ll have to hike a bit before you can relax.

14. Garie Beach

Also, the beach is known for coastal birds so get your binoculars out. In spring and winter months, you may get a chance to watch migrating whales.

15. Gordon's Bay

It is located between Clovelly and Coogee beaches and can only be reached by foot. This little beach has a beautiful 500 meter underwater nature trail.

It takes you around kelp forests, reefs, and sand flats. You should try the famous fish burger here after your refreshing swim.

Other breathtaking beaches in Sydney:

• Shark Beach
• Nielsen Park Beach
• Maroubra Beach
• Fishermans Beach
• North Narrabeen
• Newport Beach
• Whale Beach
• Cronulla Beach

So, on your next trip to Sydney, make sure to visit these beaches in this beautiful city.