Beaches to add to your Sydney bucket list
The Northern Beaches is known for spectacular coastline and picturesque beaches. Whether you are searching for a family friendly beach, something off the beaten track or just trying to find a new favourite, the Northern Beaches has something for everyone.
Before heading to any beach, we recommend checking out Beach Safe for up to date information regarding currents and patrolled areas.
With the warm weather sticking around for a bit longer, here are some beaches you should add to your bucket list.
Freshwater Beach
Publicly voted Sydney’s best beach on Urban List in 2022, Freshwater Beach holds a special place in many locals’ hearts. Nestled between two headlands, it’s calm and gentle nature makes it the perfect place to bring the family, or enjoy a beach day with some friends. The 50m rock pool at the north end of the beach is popular with lap swimmers and those wanting to float around without worrying about the surf.
Collins Flat Beach
Located on the edge of North Head Sanctuary, Collins Flat Beach is one of the many spectacular beaches on Sydney Harbour. Only accessible by foot or boat, Collins Flat Beach is a quieter place to unwind. Collins is a great place to soak up the afternoon sun with some friends or a good book. Often after rainfall a small waterfall will appear at the back of the beach which adds to the overall feel of this hidden beach.
Store Beach
If you’re heading out on a boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board, Store Beach is a secluded beach set amongst the bush of North Head Sanctuary. The only way to access Store Beach is by water, so there is a good chance you’ll have the whole place to yourself. It is the perfect to have a picnic, so bring a packed lunch or grab take away from a café or restaurant in nearby Manly. Spend the day enjoying where very few people go.
Bungan Beach
Hidden between the beaches of Newport and Mona Vale, Bungan Beach is not known to many people and is a favourite amongst locals. The beach often has good surf breaks, making it popular for local surfers, although the currents can be dangerous for swimmers, so make sure to swim between the flags. The beach is patrolled by volunteer lifeguards on weekends from late September until mid-April.
The Basin Ku-ring-gai National Park
With a sheltered beach and inland lagoon, The Basin in Ku-ring-gai National Park is suitable for swimming, paddling and floating around, fantastic for those with children.
The Basin doubles as small campground with public amenities and barbeque facilities making it an ideal location to spend the day or even longer.
You will find an abundance of Australian birds and wildlife enjoying the open grassy spaces including wallabies, goannas, and kookaburras. For a unique way to get there, many visitors opt to catch the ferry from Palm Beach. Otherwise take the walking track down to the beach from Ku-ring-gai Chase.
South Curl Curl
The southern end of Curl Curl beach, or locally known as ‘South Curly’, is favoured by families due to the child friendly ocean pools and patrolled surf. The beach is mainly frequented by locals giving a quiet, laid back feeling.
Reef Beach
Reef beach is a great place for a pit stop or swim when walking the Manly scenic walkway. Along with calm waters, the beach offers spectacular views out through the Sydney Harbour Heads and back towards Manly Wharf.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach or ‘Palmy’ is one of the most iconic beaches in Sydney, made famous by the Australian TV show, Home and Away.
The 2.3km beach is the perfect place for a stroll and a swim, with Surf Life Savers patrolling the southern end of the beach. Easily accessible from Sydney CBD and Manly, Palm Beach is a popular day trip destination. In addition to the fantastic beach, Palm Beach also offers laid back cafes and various walking tracks.