This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my, disclosure for more information.

The best part about Sydney is the city like atmosphere along with the many beaches surrounding it. You can go from shopping to brunch then head straight to the beach – it’s the Sydney lifestyle.

Over these past 6 months, I have been able to check out all of the beautiful beaches varying from the south side all the way to the north side.

Here are the best beaches in the Sydney area.

• Bondi Beach
  The famous Bondi. It’s definitely one of the most superficial places of Sydney but none the less, so much fun. The beach itself is huge and during the summer months is packed with heaps of people.

  There is a skate park at the side, the famous pools and plenty of bars and restaurants along the beach.

  It’s most definitely one of Sydney’s must see beaches. I have spent countless Sundays at the beach, lounging around the grass area, listening to music and just hanging out. It’s got a great vibe and has killer wall art for pictures.

• Bronte Beach
  Another famous beach here in Sydney. Bronte is a beach found not too far south of Bondi and is much smaller. There is the Bronte Park that is attached where you can have an amazing picnic during the day time.

  Some people prefer Bronte to Bondi considering the size difference and how it tends to be a little less touristy. This is one of the first beaches along the Bondi to Coogee walk but still, has a lot to offer.

  The first time I went I sat along the beach and watched the surfers early in the morning and it was very peaceful. I had brought a little lunch, towel and my swimmers and hung around for a couple hours.

   

• Coogee beach 

  I have always found Coogee beach to be quite similar to Bondi. It has a big beach, bars and restaurants near by and a very similar vibe. 

  The one thing I love about Coogee is the Coogee Pavilion. The rooftop is out of this world and you can always count on having a great night here. I have spent countless nights sitting on this rooftop patio, watching the beautiful sunset. 

  My friends and I would plan our days to hang out by the beach, grab a quick bite to eat during the day at one of the near by restaurants then spend the night at the Pavilion. If you’re going to this beach, I highly recommend staying for the Pavilion. 
  

• Freshwater beach
  
  
  This is my personal favorite beach here in Sydney. I have been living in the Northern Beaches and live quite close to Freshie, so I’ve gotten to know it really well. Out of all the beaches in Sydney, I would definitely have to say, this has the most relaxed vibe.When I first arrived here, I would lay out in Freshwater and meditate. It was really tranquil and I’ve just fallen in love with it.

  There is also an area along the side where you can go and swim in the pool. But better yet, you can go and walk along the rocks and check out the great waves from around the corner. Make sure to really walk around to take in the beautiful scenery in the area. 

• Dee Why Beach
  
  
  This is a beautiful beach filled with some amazing restaurants in the area. There is a great park for the children beside the beach so if you have kids with you or are bringing a family, this is the perfect beach for you. 

  At the end of the beach, you can see there’s a cliff. That’s the Long Reef lookout and is another great beach walk. From the look out you can see the Dee Why Lagoon and the Long reef beach. Depending on what months you go, you may be able to check out some breaching whales or sight see some wild dolphins. I absolutely love it here, and highly recommend checking it out! 

• Palm beach
  Palms beach is technically not in Sydney but is only about a 35-minute drive from the Northern beaches. If you have a vehicle, I highly recommend coming out and checking it out. 

  There is a beach area as well, little coffee shops down the road. 

  I took this photo out by the lighthouse where there is a nice hike to get up to grab some really great shots. I had never actually heard of this beach but heard many great things from a friend of mine. When I finally got up there, I absolutely loved the scenery at the end of the hike and found it was extremely worth it. 

  If you are traveling from the south side of Sydney, I do recommend packing up a lunch and staying in the area for the day. There are some amazing places to check out in the nearby towns and in general, this is a perfect escape from the city. 

• Manly Beach
  
  
  Another amazing famous beach of Sydney, good ol’ Manly. I have to say that I prefer Manly over Bondi any day. Bondi is amazing the first couple of times you get there but after a while, it becomes overrated with all the tourists. Manly is quite touristy as well but I find has so much to offer. There’s a great night life and the atmosphere seems to be a lot more hip than anywhere else.On Sundays, there is an amazing Manly Market that has an incredible boho feel to it. You can get postcards, rings, bathing suits, necklaces, hats, coffee, vintage items and practically everything else. It is one of my favorite markets.

  Another great thing about Manly is their coffee shops and places to eat. If you’re interested in knowing where to eat in Sydney, make sure to check out my blog post the best places to eat in Sydney.
  

 

• Shelly Beach 
  This is a small quaint beach about 5 minutes from Manly beach. If you go down Manly beach and continue walking down the path you will hit Shelly Beach. It has a beautiful cliff alongside which you can hike up and to take beautiful photos. As well, grab a coffee or lunch right beside the beach. 

  Like I said, it is a smaller beach but it really is relaxing and a beautiful place to spend the day. It has washrooms, showers and park benches so you could easily spend the day to picnic. 

Sydney has so many beaches I wish I could mention them all on here but I’ve only mentioned the top beaches I have enjoyed the most. Nonetheless, if you’re in Sydney for some time make sure to go check out the bears in Collaroy or South of Coogee. There are some really great hidden gems in Sydney and if you have the time to check them out – do it! 

Like I’ve said, I’ve been here for 6 months and have been able to check out many beaches. There are some I’ve loved (mentioned above) and some that just haven’t been quite for me.

I hope that this helps you decide which beaches to check out in the Sydney area. 

Please let me know what you think of this post or if you have anything to add. 

Thanks again, xx. 

Check out more on Australia here!

0