Australia is renowned for its pristine beaches, many of which are found in and around beautiful Sydney. The Australian Bureau of Statistics puts Sydney’s population at almost 4.4 million people, which means that more than 60 percent of the New South Wales’ population lives in and around its capital city. Much of the Sydney population hugs the coastline around some fantastic beaches that are definitely worth a visit. Which is the coolest one? We’ll let you decide.
Before You Go
Check out 100 Things to Do in Sydney for Backpackers to stay on top of what’s going on in the city. There’s a variety of events and festivals going on at any given time, and must-see landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, the Rocks, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Australian Museum, Hyde Park, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Chinatown and Darling Harbour.
Also, consider getting travel insurance, which protects you from unforeseen circumstances while you’re on your backpacking adventure. The last thing you want is added expense while you’re on your coolest beach quest, and insurance covers you for medical emergencies, illness and theft of your personal belongings. Travel insurance can be complex, so visit a site like comparethemarket.com.au that lets you search for the best deals.
Bondi Beach
Let’s start with Bondi Beach, one of the most well-known beaches in the world. It is located approximately 10 kilometres from the Sydney CBD and easily accessed by public transport. Bondi Beach is surrounded by parklands, barbeques and picnic areas, children’s playgrounds, showers, public toilets, multiple restaurants and take-away cafes, and a paid parking area. There is also a well-known and easily accessible cliff-top walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach. This takes approximately 30-40 minutes each way, and remember to take your camera. During the whale-watching season from May to November, this cliff-top walk offers a brilliant view of the humpback whales as they head north to Hervey Bay, according to Discoverherveybay.com.
Manly Beach
On the north side of Sydney Harbour Bridge is another Sydney icon, Manly Beach. Manly is located approximately 25 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, and can be accessed by road, Manly ferry or bus. Manly Beach is part of the northern beaches region, which covers 40 suburbs and a population of approximately 250,000 residents. From October to May the area experiences an influx of tourists keen on surfing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, parasailing and roller blading around the Manly Beach area. Weekend markets are also a great attraction for locals and tourists, and many local designers showcase their fashion and jewelry here.
Cronulla Beach
The final beach that made the cut in our list is Cronulla Beach in Sydney’s southern suburbs, known as “the Shire.” The Sutherland Shire Council website explains that Cronulla Beach is popular with families and surfers alike. Located approximately 40 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Cronulla is accessible by train, bus and car, and it’s extraordinarily busy during the summer months. The recently upgraded esplanade and seawall provide an easily assessable walk around the coastline. Cronulla Park is located just behind Cronulla Beach and forms a natural, grassed amphitheater. The spot’s great for families, with many trees and a play area for children. Whether you want to surf, swim, fish, sunbake or just relax under a tree, Cronulla has much to offer tourists and locals alike.
Which beach do you think is the coolest Sydney beach?
This is a guest post thanks to Bonnie Harris. Bonnie is a freelancer who loves to perform her music on stages in Newcastle.
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