Are you in search of a weekend activity in the Sydney area? Look no further. The Sydney Harbour beaches are the perfect place to relax, swim, and take in the balmy weather.
From calm, pristine waters and plenty of cosy picnic areas, to stunning views of bobbing boats and ferries gliding across the water, there’s no shortage of beaches hidden away around Sydney Harbour.
Milk Beach
Looking to escape the crowds at Bondi and Manly this summer? Milk Beach is the place to be. This beach, which is in Hermit Bay of the Sydney Harbour National Park, is an isolated spot perfect for a day by or in the water. It’s accessible either via public transport, boat, or car. And, it’s a great place to not just swim, but also to go fishing or snorkelling. Milk Beach is also close to the Strickland Estate – a heritage-listed site that was once a convalescent home and is now open to the public. Wrap up a fantastic beach day and a history lesson in the one experience!
Redleaf Beach
Located close to the Sydney CBD, Redleaf Beach is home to beautiful views and a large swimming area of around 90 x 60 metres. It’s also home to Murray Rose Pool, a lovely place for a calm swim in the ocean.
The beach is close to a wrap-around pontoon that is ideal for a stroll and offers great views of the many boats moored on and cruising around the harbour. If you follow the path, you’ll find yourself at Redleaf Cafe, where you can enjoy sandwiches, smoothies, coffee, and much more in a peaceful setting. This beach is a great spot to bring the family because of the calm waters.
Store Beach
If you’re looking for a secluded beach spot, Store Beach is almost as secretive as it can get. In fact, it’s practically only accessible by water, so make sure you have a kayak or a boat lined up for transport. Store Beach was originally the site of Sydney’s Quarantine Station, which was used to isolate passengers who were thought to have infectious diseases. It’s now part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, and the quarantine buildings have been turned into accommodations.
The beach’s pristine waters and sand will give you the feeling of being on a tropical island. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway or even a family beach day. Pack your picnic blanket and prepare to be amazed by quintessential views of Sydney Harbour.
Camp Cove Beach
This wheelchair-accessible beach has perfect waters for snorkelling, swimming, and even scuba diving. Located near Watsons Bay ferry wharf, on the harbour side of the South Head, Camp Cove is a great place to check out that classically beautiful Sydney city skyline.
If you’re looking to go for a stroll, the South Head Heritage trail starts at the north end of the beach. There’s also a rock shelter at the northern end of the beach where you can see evidence of habitation by the local Aboriginal people.
Be sure to bring your camera – this picturesque spot is perfect for Instagram photos and family flicks to be treasured.
Balmoral Beach
Balmoral Beach is in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and it is surrounded by pricey homes and expensive yachts. We’ll be honest and say that it’s not a hidden gem – as it is so famous that it’s hard to get a parking spot on the weekends, so many flock here for the eateries, views, and people watching.
It’s not only a great place to go for a swim but also to bike, play football, or bring your dog. It has safe, enclosed swimming areas that make it perfect for kids and it’s a right of passage (no matter what your age!) to leap off the jetty into the sea.
Stick around in the evening and enjoy a meal at one of the oceanfront restaurants. Or, if you’re looking to take up a new skill, check out the Balmoral Water Sports Centre, where you can join in on windsurfing and sailing lessons.
This is truly one of the best Sydney Harbour beaches that you don’t want to miss, but take a bus if you don’t want to line up for parking.
Lady Martin’s Beach
This beach is close to some of the most expensive harbourfront homes in Point Piper, which is between Double Bay and Rose Bay. It’s the perfect spot to bring the whole family – even the dogs, as it is a pet-friendly beach. In fact, there are poles and fences along the beach where owners can tie their dogs up while they go for a dip.
Lady Martin’s Beach also has a jetty and a long strip of sand, making it a great place to lie in the sun and enjoy the heat of summer. It is also a shallow beach, which means it’s an ideal spot to go kayaking or canoeing.
If you enjoyed this story about Sydney Harbour beaches, check out our article about outdoor adventures on the Macleay Valley Coast.
