With summer in the air, people out and about and the scorching concrete burning the base of your feet, what better way to spend your time than to get outdoors and head down to the beach.
Sydney has some of the most beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand. But where to go to avoid all the crowds? Here at Arcadia we spent our summer holidays finding some of Sydney’s best hidden spots for you.
While there is a plethora of beaches in Sydney, secluded beaches are very hard to come by. We at Arcadia managed to find a few hidden gems scattered around Sydney Harbour and along the coast that are perfect locations to relax and unwind. Here are our top 5:
MILK BEACH
Source: 2015, ‘Milk Beach Vaucluse’; Sydney.com; URL: http://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-east/surrounds/attractions/milk-beach (Viewed 12/01/2015)
Situated to the North of Hermit Bay and right below heritage listed Strickland House in Vaucluse, Milk beach is one of Sydney’s best kept secrets with incredible views over the Harbour Bridge and city skyline. With an array of things to do from snorkelling, fishing, swimming in crystal clear waters to walking along the Hermitage foreshore, this small insulated beach is one of the best spots to avoid the crowds. Be aware though, parking is limited so public transport maybe a better option!
STORE BEACH…BY KAYAK!
Source: 2015, ‘Picnics’; Manlykayakcentre.com.au; URL: http://www.manlykayakcentre.com.au/beach-picnics.html (Viewed 12/01/2015)
This little gem can be found at Manly’s North Head and can only be accessed by water. We hired a kayak from the Manly kayak Centre and after about a 30 minute paddle we were in paradise. A word of warning, there are no facilities there so make sure you pack plenty of water and sunscreen! The area is also an aquatic reserve and breeding ground for the endangered fairy penguins so keep an eye out for the little guys.
LADY MARTINS BEACH
Source: 2015, ‘Martinique’; Raineandhorne.com.au; URL: http://www.raineandhorne.com.au/properties/133318 (Viewed 12/01/2015)
Located at Felix Bay between Point Piper and Woollahra Point, Lady Martin’s Beach is a long narrow strip of heaven surrounded by some of Sydney’s most spectacular homes. Named after Lady Mary Martin, wife of chief of justice and politician Sir James Martin, this exclusive beach is one of Sydney’s best swimming spots and offers uninterrupted harbour views, privacy and great afternoon sun. You will need to bring your own supplies though as there are no facilities at this location. Access is also fairly limited and entry is via boat or a small narrow lane off Wolseley road near the royal prince Edward Yacht Club.
SHELLY BEACH
Source: 2015, ‘Sydney’s Beach Gems’; Blog.meritonapartments.com.au; http://blog.meritonapartments.com.au/sydneys-beach-gems/ (Viewed 12/01/2015)
Only a short scenic walk from Manly Beach, this exclusive and well protected spot lies adjacent to the Northern Beaches and forms part of Cabbage Tree Bay. Renowned for its abundance of underwater marine life, Shelly Beach is popular for snorkelling and scuba diving. Equipped with showers, toilets and cooking facilities, this spot is ideal for picnics and family get togethers. For those keen on buying lunch out, there is a great restaurant (Le Kiosk) and Café (Sand Bar Café) located adjacent to the beach. With limited parking facilities, another way to access the beach is along the stunning scenic walking track from the southern end of Manly Beach. The track takes approximately 20 minutes to walk and hugs the beautiful coastline the entire way.
REEF BEACH
Source: 2015, ‘Photographic Journey Manly To Spit’; Australian traveller magazine; http://www.australiantraveller.com/nsw/photographic-journey-manly-to-spit/ (Viewed 12/01/2015)
This incredible spot is tucked away at Dobroyd Head in Balgowlah Heights and offers incredible views across Sydney’s North Harbour to Manly. Located just east of Balgowlah Heights, this secluded paradise is around the corner from the popular Manly mecca and is accessible via the Manly Scenic Walkway. This fairly deserted beach offers an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing without the crowds. The beach is only 80m long and faces northeast toward Manly Cove.
Relish on some of Sydney’s best hidden beaches, where you will feel as though you’re worlds apart from the crowds. From swimming in secluded spots to wondering through pristine landscapes, we hope we’ve uncovered a few of Sydney’s finest spots to head to this summer. Enjoy!