15 Best Beaches of Sydney (2024)

Sydney is blessed with some stunning beaches and coastal lines. With pure, clear blue waters and golden sand, the city is home to many beaches that are perfect to spend an afternoon or have a picnic at.

With many of these beaches featuring the world’s best beaches, Sydney has more than 100 beaches that you can visit and explore. In this post, you will find the 15 Best Beaches of Sydney. Note that the list is a compilation of all the recommendations from fellow travel bloggers and me.

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Top 15 Best Beaches of Sydney

Avalon Beach

Submitted by Jennie Boyd at TravelBravely

Beautiful Avalon Beach, one of Sydney’s famed Northern Beaches, is the perfect spot to soak in Australian beach culture. The surrounding headlands and cliffs create a beautiful backdrop for Avalon Beach’s stunning golden sand and clear blue waters. 

Intrepid swimmers can swim in the ocean (between the flags); anyone who’d prefer to avoid the waves can swim in the rock swimming pool at the south end of the beach. Surfers come from around the world for the excellent surfing conditions at the north end of Avalon Beach. Families will enjoy the playground, skate park, kids’ rock pool, and picnic areas with barbeques. 

Anyone lucky enough to be at Avalon Beach at sunrise or sunset should view the beach from the lookout at the north end of the beach (at Marine Parade and Tasman Road).

Looking for a place to stay at Avalon Beach?
Consider Salty Snooze (Coastal Holiday House).

Just across Barrenjoey Road, the adorable village of Avalon Beach is full of cafes, bakeries, and boutiques. Don’t miss Chillbar, the perfect stop for an espresso, delicious gelato, or fresh-pressed juice. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and peaceful charm of Avalon Beach.

Avalon Beach is located between Whale Beach and Bilgola Beach, about 23 kilometres north of Manly or 39 kilometres north of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD). Visitors can reach Avalon Beach by car or via the 199 bus from Manly Wharf heading to Palm Beach.

Recommended restaurant / café: Chillbar

Bondi Beach

Submitted by Raksha

Popular for the oldest swimming club the Bondi Icebergs, and the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, Bondi Beach is located east of Sydney. You can take a 10-minute train ride from the Town Hall to Bondi Junction, and then from Bondi Junction to Bondi Beach either take a short bus ride or walk among the busy streets.

With pristine blue waters, sandstone headlands and a laid-back lifestyle, Bondi Beach is one of the iconic beaches in the country. During the summer season, the beach is jam-packed with surfers and joggers. You can swim at Bondi Beach in designated areas between the red and yellow flags. Even though the beach is accessible throughout the day and night, the beach is only patrolled by the lifeguards between 7 AM and 5 PM.

Looking for a place to stay in Bondi?
Consider Hotel Bondi.

Bondi Beach is also home to the annual event where a series of sculptures designed by domestic and international artists are displayed. Called the Sculptures by the Sea, these displays stretch for 2 kilometres from Bondi Beach to Tamarama Beach.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars near the beach on the main street. These restaurants cater for all kinds of travellers as they offer varied cuisines, ranging from Mexican to Fish and Chips. Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is a perfect place to have fine dining with stunning views of the ocean. If you are a vegan, then Bondi beach also has options such as Eden Bondi and Funky Pies.

Recommended restaurant / café: Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Brighton Le Sands Beach

Submitted by Emily from She’s a Trip

Brighton Le Sands Beach is situated on the eastern shore of Botany Bay, just 13 kilometres south of Sydney’s city centre. Its pristine white sands, clear turquoise waters, and panoramic views of the bay make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. This beach is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, plus those who enjoy plane spotting, as the airport is just across the bay.

Getting to Brighton Le Sands is a breeze. If you’re coming from Sydney’s city centre, you can hop on a train to Rockdale Station and then catch a short bus ride to the beach. Alternatively, you can take a scenic stroll along the picturesque Bay Street, which is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Looking for a place to stay at Brighton Le Sands?
Consider Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach.

Once you arrive, you’ll discover plenty of activities to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling waters, bask in the sun on the soft sand, or indulge in beachside picnics with your loved ones. The beach also offers great opportunities for water sports, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. You can bring your own, or rent them there. 

For a delectable dining experience, be sure to visit the vibrant strip of restaurants along Bay Street. Here, you’ll find a wide range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood and international cuisine to cozy cafes and gelaterias. A must-visit restaurant is Hurricanes Grill, known for its mouthwatering steaks and ribs, as well as stunning ocean views.

In the evening, Brighton Le Sands Beach transforms into a lively hub of activity. You can enjoy a relaxing beachfront stroll as the sun sets, or head to the trendy bars and lounges nearby for some cocktails and live music.

Recommended restaurant / café: Hurricanes Grill

Bronte Beach

Submitted by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Bronte Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Sydney! It is situated in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, about 8 kilometres from the CBD, between world-famous Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach. This prime location means Bronte is a very popular beach, yet it has a relaxed atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and parklands and has stunning coastal views, creating a picturesque setting that attracts locals and tourists alike.

One of the unique features of Bronte Beach is its rock pool, known as the Bronte Baths. This ocean-fed pool is a popular spot for swimming and provides a safe and calm environment to swim for families and individuals. At low tide, you’ll also find the Bogey Hole rock pool, which is great for little nippers!

Bronte Beach is a special spot as it is the starting point for the breathtaking Bronte to Bondi, and Bronte to Coogee Coastal Walks.
Bronte Beach is also known for its surf breaks, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers and bodyboarders.

Regular buses run from Bondi Junction to Bronte Beach. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive, there is parking but it’s limited (and costly), so it’s advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation.

There are barbecues and picnic areas available at Bronte Beach, as well as a variety of dining options available. There are several cafés and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a coffee while taking in the ocean views. The Bogey Hole Café serves great coffee and food!

Make sure to swim between the flags and be cautious of rough surf conditions at Bronte Beach. Like many Sydney beaches, Bronte can experience strong currents and rough surf at times. Pay attention to surf conditions and any warnings or signs posted by lifeguards.

Recommended restaurant / café: Bogey Hole Café

Camp Cove Beach

Submitted by Kate of Kate Abroad

Camp Cove Beach is located in the beautiful Watsons Bay suburb at the far Eastern edge of Sydney, just below South Head. Getting there is one of the best parts of the trip if you take the scenic ferry from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay Wharf. Otherwise, there are buses from central Sydney that stop near the wharf, from there it’s a short walk up the road to Camp Cove Beach.

Camp Cove is a great beach for families as the water quality is really good and its fairly sheltered, so no big waves and fewer shark sightings than Manly or Bondi! Camp Cove has a really cute little kiosk that does ice creams, drinks and some snacks so it’s easy to park up there for a full day. You can also get proper meals and drinks from the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel (a popular spot for weekend cocktails) or Doyle’s (a Sydney institution famous for its seafood). 

There are plenty of things to do in Watsons Bay area and Camp Cove specifically, including swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, scuba diving and hikes to Hornby Lighthouse. Don’t miss The Gap Lookout National Park, with its incredible views over the ocean.

If you’re spending any time at Sydney beaches, though, make sure to take lots of sunscreen, water and layers to cover up; our sun is harsh!

Recommended restaurant / café: Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel or Doyle’s

Clovelly Beach

Submitted by Paula from Australia Your Way

Clovelly Beach doesn’t make many the radar of many beachgoers, but it’s a popular spot for locals in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. Just 8 kilometres from the city centre, it’s flanked by other popular beaches such as Coogee and Bondi but sets itself apart with its relaxing and sheltered bay frontage.

The best feature of Clovelly is its protective reef that runs across the bay, creating a sheltered beach that is perfect for swimming. The reef also provides a home to a range of marine life, including the infamous Blue Groper, a protected species that is only found in Australian waters. Spend some time snorkeling the rocky ridges and rock pools which are home to octopus, cuttlefish, and crabs. Sea urchins and starfish are also found in the rockpools if you don’t fancy donning a snorkel.

Looking for a place to stay at Clovelly Beach?
Consider The Clovelly Hotel.

The beach also boasts a 25-metre salt water pool if you prefer the safety of enclosed waters. There is a children’s playground, plenty of shade, including a few covered picnic tables and a nice grassy area. If you are not fond of sand in your shoes, you can access the beach via the concrete landings on either side of the bay.

When hunger strikes, you don’t even need to leave the beach. Seasalt Café has great coffee and healthy food options. 

Visit Clovelly Beach next time you are looking for an eastern suburbs swim. It’s well served by public transport, with bus routes connecting the beach to the city and also a decent amount of parking. It’s also part of the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail that leads to other stunning beaches like Gordons Bay and Bronte Beach.

Recommended restaurant / café: Seasalt Café

Coogee Beach

Submitted by Chanelle from Chasing Chanelle

Bondi is not the only famous beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Located at the southern end of the iconic Bondi to Coogee walk, you will find beautiful Coogee beach, where Sydney locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy the stunning coastline.

What makes Coogee Beach so special is that it truly has something for everyone. The water here is calmer than many of Sydney’s other beaches, so it’s a great swimming spot and is very family-friendly. At the southern end of the beach, you will also find two locals’ favourite ocean-fed pools. Just past the lifesaving club is McIver’s Baths, a female-only seawater pool that is the only one of its kind in Australia. And a little further south is Wylie’s Baths, a heritage listed tidal pool open every day of the year.

Looking for a place to stay at Coogee Beach?
Consider Coogee Sands Hotel and Apartments.

Coogee’s white sandy beach is only 400 metres long, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in atmosphere. Plus, it’s surrounded by green parks, so there’s plenty of space for everyone. On weekends, you will usually find groups of friends and families enjoying picnics and barbeques on the grass, strolling up and down the promenade, playing volleyball, and relaxing on the sand.

The beach is well-equipped with facilities, so everything you need is within easy reach. Towards the middle, you will find toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Plus, there’s a bus stop located near the facilities and a car park at the northern end, which makes getting here easy.

There are also plenty of nearby cafes, bars and restaurants offering everything from fresh fish and chips to upmarket dining options. For some fantastic pizzas and Mediterranean food, try the Coogee Pavilion. Located towards the beach’s northern end, the Pavilion offers beachside dining, delicious cocktails, a rooftop terrace and even a games area!

Recommended restaurant / café: Coogee Pavilion

Cronulla Beach

Submitted by Sharyn of Discover Australia Now

Cronulla Beach is one very long beach found in the Southern Suburbs of Sydney. You can drive there, though parking can be an issue so the best way to get there is by train. Catching a train on the Illawarra line will take you to the end of the tracks at Cronulla on Bate Bay. The last part of the train journey is quite scenic with many water views. From the train station, the beach is a short walk.

Cronulla Beach is made up of many beaches; the first beach you will see after alighting from the train is South Cronulla Beach. From here, you can turn right and walk along the Cronulla Beach Walk, taking you past the family-friendly Shelley Beach to Oak Park and Cape Solander at the mouth of the Port Hacking River. From here, you can see across to the Royal National Park. If you turn left at South Cronulla Beach, you will walk past the Rock Pool, which is great for swimmers and small kids, then onto North Cronulla Beach, The Wall, Eleoura Beach, Wanda Beach and Green Hills. If you keep on walking, you will end up at the Kurnell Headland. The Kurnell to Cronulla coastal walk (or vice versa) is one of the popular coastal walks in Sydney.

Looking for a place to stay in Cronulla Beach?
Consider Rydges Cronulla Beachside.

The beaches at Cronulla are perfect for a day of sun, sand, jumping through waves and surfing. Even on a cold winter’s day you will find people by, and in the water. Many fisherman fish off the beach which can bring a haul of whiting, flathead and bream.

If you don’t want to catch your own fish, there are a number of fish and chip shops on Cronulla’s main shopping street, Gerrale Street, along with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and other retail stores. One of the best restaurants is Sealevel at 2 Kingsway, Cronulla. Its glass walls provide sweeping views over Cronulla beaches while serving Australian seafood cuisine. Or just buy some fish and chips and sit in one of the parks behind the beach and enjoy being beach-side in Cronulla.

Recommended restaurant / café: Sealevel

Curl Curl Beach

Submitted by Paula from Australia Your Way

If you are looking for a classic Aussie beach that is not overrun with crowds, the favourite of Northern Beaches local’s Curl Curl might be just what you need. 

Nestled between Dee Why and Freshwater this stretch of golden sand offers excellent surf and two glorious ocean pools – minus the crush you might find on some of the better known beaches.

At 1.2 kilometres, the beach faces east and southeast and regularly sees waves between 1.4 and 1.6 metres, making it popular with surfers. However, there is plenty of space at Curl Curl for swimmers and bodyboarders as well, with the beach divided into two, North Curl Curl and South Curl Curl. Swimmers often head to the northern end, where Harbord Lagoon meets the beach, providing calm conditions. Alternatively, choose one of the ocean pools found at either end of the beach. If you don’t choose the ocean pools, be sure to swim between the flags, as rips are not uncommon here. 

Gusto Café at the Southern End of Curl Curl is the only place on the beach to grab food, but thankfully, it’s great. This family and dog-friendly café is open from 6.30 AM and does great bacon and egg rolls. If you are considering lunch, you will need to eat early cause they close at 2 PM. 

Fancy something more substantial for lunch? Then, take the boardwalk around South Curl Curl to Harbord Diggers Club on the hill.

Getting to Curl Curl can be a scenic trip in itself. From Circular Quay, take the ferry to Manly, then jump on the bus for the short trip to South Curl Curl. If you have some energy to burn, you can take the Bicentennial Coastal Walk, which begins in Manly and travels all the way north of Palm Beach, passing Curl Curl about 3 kilometres into the walk. 

Recommended restaurant / café: Harbord Diggers Club

La Perouse Beach

Submitted by Raksha

Situated in one of the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, La Perouse beach is in Botany Bay. Also known as the Frenchmans Beach, La Perouse Beach is named after the French explorer and navigator La Perouse. La Perouse is around 15 kilometres from Sydney’s city centre, and the best way to get to La Perouse is to catch a bus to Anzac Parade Terminus from the University of New South Wales (NSW) or Sydney Circular Quay (bus number L94).

The area has plenty of things to do and see, including the old military outpost at Bare Island. As the La Perouse area was where the First Fleet arrived, it has a very significant place in Sydney’s history. You can visit the La Perouse Museum where you can learn and read about exhibits and history. The La Perouse Beach is very clear with blue waters and calm ocean as it lies in the protected bay, it is perfect for families to swim and have a relaxing day. But do note that the beach is not patrolled.

The restaurants and cafes near La Perouse Beach provide great dine-in options with uninterrupted views of the ocean. The Boathouse La Perouse is a perfect place to enjoy with your family and have delicious seafood meal by the ocean. Do not forget to try their oysters.

Recommended restaurant / café: The Boathouse La Perouse

Manly Beach

Known as the birthplace of surfing in Australia, Manly Beach is situated among the northern beaches of Sydney. Being one of the most popular beaches in Australia, Manly Beach is the beach where the world’s first surfing contest was held. Stretching over 2 kilometres, the Manly beach spreads across three main sections: Queenscliff, North Steyne and South Steyne. Situated around 16 kilometres from Sydney CBD, the best way to reach Manly Beach is by taking a 20-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf. There are buses as well between Wynyard and Manly (bus numbers 178 and 180).

There are plenty of things that you can do at Manly Beach. As it is popular for surfing, it is one of the best beaches to take surfing lessons. You can also hire kayaks and paddle boards to enjoy the pristine blue ocean. There is also a coastal walk, Manly to Spit Bridge (or vice versa), that is very famous in Sydney and is one of the best places to see whales from the mainland during the whale-watching season. If you just want to relax, then the beach is very laid back and an ideal place to sunbathe.

Looking for a place to stay at Manly beach?
Consider Quest Manly.

With bustling restaurants and cafes at Manly Beach, the area has food and cuisine for all kinds of visitors. You can try Bavarian Café to spend an afternoon chilling by the ocean. But the best restaurant with stunning views of the ocean is Hugos Manly. It is just by the wharf and is a great place to sip cocktails and have wood-fired pizzas.

Recommended restaurant / café: Hugos Manly, Bavarian Café

Maroubra Beach

Submitted by Chloe from Passport Down Under

One of the best beaches in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, Maroubra Beach is a stunning beach that offers a perfect blend of sun, surf, and serenity. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Bondi and Coogee, this one-kilometre stretch of golden sand is a local favorite that offers a more relaxed and authentic beach experience.

What sets Maroubra Beach apart from others is its laid-back atmosphere and the picturesque beachfront scene. The promenade is lined with an eclectic mix of bars, cafes, and restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. Families will love the well-maintained playground that adds a touch of fun for the little ones.

Getting to Maroubra Beach is a breeze, thanks to the efficient public transport system in Sydney. Hop on a bus (routes 376, 377, or 395) from the city centre, and you’ll be soaking up the sun in just 30 minutes. You can pay the fare on public transport either using the Opal card or credit/debit card. If you prefer driving, there’s ample parking available near the beach.

Once you’ve made your way to this beautiful spot, there’s no shortage of things to do. Maroubra Beach is renowned for its consistent surf breaks, making it an ideal location for both beginners and seasoned surfers. If you’re new to the sport, consider enrolling in a surf school to master the basics. For those who prefer calmer waters, the Mahon Pool, a natural rock pool, is just located at the far end of the beach. 

When it comes to satisfying your hunger, Maroubra Beach offers a variety of different options; however, the beachfront café Makai is a must if you are after a healthy smoothie or available bowl! 

Recommended restaurant / café: Makai

Palm Beach

Submitted by Kate from Here Goes Kate

Welcome to Palm Beach, Sydney’s hidden gem and a true paradise for beach lovers! Located just 40 kilometres north of Sydney’s city centre, Palm Beach offers an incredible coastal experience that will leave you absolutely mesmerized. Picture golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural beauty—this place has it all!

To get to Palm Beach, you have a couple of options. You can embark on a scenic drive along the coastal roads, immersing yourself in the stunning views along the way. Alternatively, you can hop on a ferry from Sydney’s Circular Quay, feasting your eyes on a delightful journey with panoramic vistas of Sydney Harbor and its world-renowned landmarks. Indeed, the ferry ride alone is a treat!

Looking for a place to stay at Palm Beach?
Consider Barrenjoey Beach House.

Once you arrive, prepare yourself for an array of activities to enjoy. Take a dip in the refreshing ocean, bask in the warm sun on the sandy shores, or unleash your inner water sports enthusiast with activities like surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. And if you’re a nature lover, you’re in luck! Palm Beach is a haven for bushwalkers, with a slew of walking trails that showcase stunning views of the surrounding headlands and national parks. 

After a delightful day of fun in the sun, treat your taste buds to a culinary experience at one of Palm Beach’s must-visit restaurants, the Boathouse. You’ll absolutely adore this place! While it can be a bit pricey (well, it’s Palm Beach, after all), it’s totally worth it for a special treat. 

Indeed, Palm Beach has a charm that’s hard to resist. So go ahead and treat yourself to this wonderful destination, but remember to plan strategically to make the most of your time there.  For instance, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water to keep yourself protected and hydrated during your visit. 

Recommended restaurant / café: The Boathouse

Rose Bay Beach

Submitted by Shandos from Travel Nuity

While the surf beaches in Sydney tend to attract all the attention, Sydney is also home to many wonderful beaches along the shores of its large harbour. Rose Bay Beach on the southern edge of the harbour is about a 15 minute drive east of the city’s centre, and easily accessed through regular ferry services as well as buses.

The calm waters of Rose Bay Beach are particularly excellent for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you don’t have your own kayak or board, hire one from Point Piper Kayak & SUP Centre, on the western edge of the suburb, next to Rose Bay Park.

The beach is also one of the only dog-friendly beaches in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. Dogs are allowed off-leash all day long on Rose Bay Dog Beach, in between Percival Park and Dumaresq Reserve. It’s a popular destination for dog owners on warm, sunny days. 

The waters of Rose Bay first came to prominence as the site of the first international airport in Sydney, back when flying boats operated the Kangaroo route to London. A seaplane terminal remains in operation to this day, with scenic flights regularly spotted departing and landing. For a special occasion, make a booking at the highly-rated Catalina Restaurant next to the seaplane terminal. 

Recommended restaurant / café: Catalina Restaurant

Shelly Beach

Submitted by Raksha

Located right next to Manly Beach is Shelly Beach, which is also part of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. It is a western-facing beach along the east coast of Australia. As it is a protected beach, it is one of the safest beaches for families. During warm days, it is very crowded. The best way to reach Shelly Beach is by taking a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf and then walking down to the beach, which is around 2 kilometres from the wharf.

Shelly Beach is known for abundant marine life and shallow waters. Due to this, the beach is extremely popular for snorkelling and scuba diving. Being a shore dive, scuba diving at Shelly Beach is ideal for any level of divers, including beginners. You can expect to see lots of colourful fishes, rays, Port Jackson sharks, and groupers while snorkelling and scuba diving. There is also an ocean pool next to Shelly Beach where you can swim in a closed environment.

Shelly beach has limited cafes and restaurants as most of the restaurants are located near Manly beach and wharf. At Shelly Beach, you can try out the Boathouse Shelly Beach café which is a waterside café where you can enjoy delicious breakfast and lunch options with coffee and uninterrupted ocean views.

Recommended restaurant / café: The Boathouse Shelly Beach

Closing Notes

As you can see, Sydney has a spectacular coastline with pretty beaches and blue waters. They are perfect for coastal walks, swimming in the ocean, surfing, and even lazing back on a beautiful sunny day. Which of these beaches of Sydney have you visited?

PIN for later reference | Best Beaches of Sydney