-
travel
The Best Sydney Swim Spots, As Curated By RIISE
24/01/25
Author: RIISE Team
DOCUMENTED BY: RIISE
SHARE
Sydney’s stunning beaches are undeniably etched into the city’s identity, but sometimes, the best way to recharge and connect with nature is by sneaking away from the usual hotspots. From freshwater swimming holes to city ocean lap pools, we’ve curated a list of hidden gems worth exploring before summer ends, complete with our favourite places to sip on a pre-or post-swim coffee where you can sit down, take 5 and savour the moment.
Eastern Sydney
Camp Cove Beach
Camp Cove Beach is a small, sheltered beach that offers some of the Harbour’s cleanest waters, providing the ideal spot to cool off on a hot afternoon.
A trip to Camp Cove is only complete with a coffee or fresh salad from the on-site kiosk, easily spotted by its fresh oranges in netted bags. Located at the end of Cliff St, Watsons Bay, you can drive and park nearby or take the 324 buses to Military Rd Terminus, followed by a 750m walk.
Address: 23B Victoria Street, Watsons Bay NSW 2030
Lady Martin's Beach
Located in the suburb of Point Piper, this charming beach is ideal for admiring the beautiful harbourside homes. The serene beach can be accessed via a lane off Wolseley Road and is dog-friendly, so your little companion can join you for a dip. Enjoy a coffee on the waterside terrace at the Boathouse Rose Bay, only a 10-minute walk away.
Address: Lady Martin's Beach, 162 Wolseley Rd, Point Piper NSW 2027
Milk Beach
This small sandy oasis is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets. Located at the base of Hermit Bay within the Sydney Harbour National Park, Milk Beach is a beach well removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once you’re there you won’t want to leave, so pack snacks, your Mother SPF sunscreen and drinks to last the day.
Address: Milk Beach, Vaucluse Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030
Shark Beach
Newly renovated and reopened, this beach has big concrete steps that lead right into the water with an ocean net protecting it (despite the name!). The water is clear and flat and The Nielsen Kiosk is great for a coffee or a bite to eat. The shady park is beautiful for a picnic, and there are lovely walks and other small swim spots to be discovered nearby. There is free street parking, but it does fill up!
Address: Shark Beach, Promenade Rd Nielsen Park, Vaucluse, NSW 2030
Northern Sydney
Bilgola Beach
A quiet beach hidden between two headlands; this beautiful beach should not be missed when visiting the Northern Beaches. Drive up Bilgola Bends to a beachfront car park and enjoy a coffee at Zubi's café. The concealed 50-metre pool is great for laps, while the beach offers gentle but consistent waves ideal for beginners.
Address: The Serpentine. Bilgola Beach NSW 2107
Castle Rock Beach
A secluded cove accessible only via the Manly to Spit Walk, it is ideal for a quiet swim. This humble, under-the-radar spot is so calm it will make you forget you’re in the city at all. It can be easy to miss so look for the signposted “Manly Scenic Walk.” Be sure to grab a coffee from the nearby café Aggy’s Corner.
Address: Castle Rock Beach, 17 Ogilvy Rd, Clontarf NSW 2093
Chinaman's Beach
Chinaman’s Beach, a 250-metre stretch of sand in northern Mosman, is ideal for cooling off, kayaking, and snorkelling. Its limited access keeps crowds low but arrive early to grab a shady spot. The beach backs onto Rosherville Reserve, a dog-friendly park perfect for picnics and off-leash walks. There are many great cafes within a two-minute drive of the beach, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. Our personal favourite is the Boathouse on Balmoral Beach.
Address: MacLean Cr & Cyprian St, Mosman NSW 2088
Delwood Beach
On a sunny day in the North, skip the popular Manly Beach and make your way to Delwood Beach via West Esplanade where you’ll find this unknown gem. Have a coffee and a bagel at Barrel One Coffee Roasters and enjoy a picnic and views of Manly at this quiet beach.
Address: Delwood Beach, Manly NSW 2095
MacCallum Pool
Hidden on Cremorne Point’s western side, this 30-metre historic pool offers stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. After soaking in the sights, treat yourself to a coffee from Thelma and Louise. The pool is open all week and perfect for some morning laps.
Address: MacCallum Pool, Milson Rd, Cremorne Point NSW 2090
Resolute Beach
Catch the ferry from Palm Beach to Mackerel Beach Wharf and enjoy an easy 30-minute bushwalk along the coastline. At the end, you’ll find a golden-sand beach overlooking Pittwater, with calm water perfect for swimming. We recommend packing lunch (in your Casa Catinella Bag, of course) and a beach umbrella as it is very secluded.
Address: Resolute Beach, West Head Road Ku-ring-gai Chase NSW 2084
Greater Sydney Region
Bullimah Beach
Bullimah Beach is an idyllic escape for those looking to skip the city crowds. Located on the Central Coast within Bouddi National Park, this hidden gem can only be reached on foot from Maitland Bay or Putty Beach. While its secluded location offers peace and quiet, dining options are limited, so be sure to bring everything you need. Insider tip: Keep an eye on the water during migration season… you might spot whales breaching and playing offshore.
Address: Bullimah Beach, 90 Sydney Ave, Umina Beach NSW 2257
Little Beach
As the name suggests, this beach is small but stunning. If a sandy beach isn't your thing, there are natural rock pools and rock platforms where you can perch and relax. There's a free car park but expect a 750-meter walk along a gravel path to reach the beach. Right by the beach, there are six little campsites, though they tend to book up quickly during the warmer months, so it’s best to book in advance.
Address: Little Beach, 4R Coast Hospital Road, Little Bay 2036
Karloo Pool
If you’re looking for a weekend escape from the city, hop on a train to Heathcote station. From there, enjoy a 2km bushwalk through the Royal National Park to Karloo Pool. This stunning waterhole boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. We recommend packing a lunch and wearing good walking shoes as parts of the walk are steep and rocky. We promise it’s worth the trip.
Address: Karloo Pool, 126 Wilson Parade, Royal National Park, NSW 2232
SHARE THIS STORY
Documented By: RIISE
© 2024 RIISE, All Rights Reserved
