The Best Hidden Beaches in Sydney for a Secluded Dip
Sneak away to the best hidden beaches in Sydney, loved for their secluded locations and picturesque views.
Sydney is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but where do you go to avoid the crowds on a hot summer’s day? Do as the locals do and bypass the well-known, touristy haunts (sorry, Bondi Beach!) and head to somewhere secret instead. Challenge accepted? Grab your swimmers and sneak away to one of the best hidden beaches in Sydney…
Chinamans Beach, Mosman
Located a kilometre away from Balmoral Beach, Chinamans Beach is a beautiful 250m stretch of sand that’s the definition of ‘secluded.’
Once you’re there, you won’t want to leave, so bring snacks, sunscreen and drinks to last the day. The unpatrolled beach is known for its flat water, making it perfect for water sports, while the playground keeps kids entertained between swims.
McLean Crescent, Mosman
Lady Martins Beach, Point Piper
Wander down the lane off Wolseley Road, Point Piper (near the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club), and you’ll be greeted by the sparkling waters of Lady Martins Beach.
Not only is the beach peaceful, but the uninterrupted harbour views will remind you just how lucky you are to live in Sydney.
Wolseley Road, Point Piper
Camp Cove, Watsons Bay
Camp Cove is a go-to secret beach for the eastern suburbs set of Sydney. Framed by million-dollar mansions and a short walk from the Watsons Bay ferry, you can go real estate window shopping as you wade about in the calm waters.
Bring a picnic rug, set up under the shade of a tree, and get fish and chips from the nearby kiosk. There's also a large playground for the kids nearby. Tick, tick, tick!
Victoria Street, Watsons Bay
Collins Flat Beach, Manly
On the harbour side of Manly, Collins Flat Beach is an idyllic spot that offers sprawling city skyline views and a ton of privacy. It’s accessible via water or walking trails and is the kind of place that prompts Instagram posts captioned, “How’s the serenity?”
The water is calm and shallow, and the beach is usually quiet. Our advice? Pack a picnic hamper and head to this hidden beach with the person you care about most, #romance.
Collins Beach Road, Manly
Bungan Beach, Newport
If you’re after a secluded beach with decent waves, head to Bungan Beach in Newport. Just take your time walking down the steep private driveway (on Myolda Road), as that’s the only way in.
When you reach the Bungan SLSC clubhouse, you’re there. The beach is only 600m long, but spectacular thanks to the sandstone cliffs that loom on either side.
If you can't find a parking spot, drive 5 minutes south to find another secluded spot at Turimetta Beach.
Myola Road, Newport
Salmon Haul Reserve, Cronulla
Salmon Haul Reserve is a great spot if you're looking to skip the crowds at Cronulla. This gorgeous little spot has a beautifully landscaped area that overlooks Port Hacking across to Bundeena and the beach Royal National Park.
Wade in the inviting shallow water, explore the little rock pools or have a snorkel. There's a great playground plus picnic facilities and toilets, and it's dog-friendly if you keep your furry friend on a leash.
If you have a boat head over to Jibbon Beach - another hidden gem just across the bay.
Gowrie Street, Cronulla
Whale Beach
Local and international crowds flock to Palm Beach (aka Summer Bay) thanks to Home and Away, so its next-door neighbour, Whale Beach, is usually overlooked.
Named after the whales that can often be spotted on its horizon, this stunning spot boasts excellent surf conditions and bright yellow sand.
The Strand, Whale Beach
Whiting Beach, Mosman
Set on Sydney Harbour and hidden from the main drag, this is one of the best secret beaches for locals and Sydneysiders.
The picture-perfect setting at Whiting Beach lends itself well to sunbathing, swimming and photos. Pack a picnic because when the sun is out, this is the spot to be for the whole day.
Whiting Beach Road, Mosman
Lady Bay Beach, Watsons Bay
Perched between South Head and Camp Cove, this tiny beach is one of the best secret beaches on Sydney’s coastline – and that’s a big call!
It boasts stunning views of the harbour and skyline, and the water is gentle and inviting. Oh, and cossies are completely optional. Yep, Lady Bay Beach is a designated nude bathing area, so feel free to strip down before you splash away.
If you’re in the mood for a walk, wear your sneakers and go down the South Head Heritage Trail, which will take you to the Hornby Lighthouse.
Lady Bay Road, Watsons Bay
Castle Rock Beach
Nestled between Clontarf and Balgowlah lies this harbour beach in the Sydney Harbour National Park. This peaceful inlet is surrounded by cliffs and bushland, offering a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The unique rocky outcrops around the beach make for the most amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Ogilvy Road, Clontarf
Parsley Bay, Vaucluse
On a sunny day in Vaucluse, skip the popular Nielsen Park and stop at Parsley Bay instead.
This gem is as pretty as a postcard, with crystal clear water, a waterfall, and a wooden bridge harking back to the 1920s. Given its location at the very tip of the eastern suburbs, Parsley Bay doesn’t attract the kind of large crowds that neighbouring beaches do.
If you're feeling active, try the other side of Vaucluse and walk the Hermitage Foreshore Walk and cool off with a dip in Milk Beach.
Parsley Road, Vaucluse
Little Congwong Beach, La Perouse
Surrounded by lush greenery in the Botany Bay National Park, Little Congwong Beach makes swimmers and sunbathers feel like they’re far away from it all.
It’s a 30-minute stroll from Congwong Beach, and worth it. Along with calm waters, the beach offers views of bushland and boats, and it’s great for snorkelling. Leave the kids at home, though – thanks to its isolated location, Little Congwong Beach appeals to those who like to ‘let it all hang out.’ (Nudists; we mean nudists).
Botany Bay National Park, Anzac Parade, La Perouse
Mackenzie’s Bay, Tamarama
Now, Mackenzie’s Bay isn’t ‘hidden’ as such – it just doesn’t exist most of the time. Let us explain. Usually, this small cove between Bondi and Tamarama Beach is just a rocky bay that attracts surfers, fishermen and a few brave sunbathers.
But, every few years at the beginning of winter, the bay becomes a beach overnight. It’s a mystery in that no one knows exactly when it will happen, but experts believe it’s due to a special combination of shifting sand and low tide. How cool is that?
Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, Tamarama
Finished splashing your way around the best hidden beaches in Sydney and want to explore more of our harbour city? Check out our definitive edit of Sydney's best seafood restaurants. After that, have a read of our ultimate Sydney staycation round-up.
