Sydney is one of the few urban centres in the world that is built around and largely on a natural harbour which means it’s a dream come true for beach lovers. Consistently ranked among the best in the world, it’s no surprise that these photogenic spots are always trending on TikTok. The city’s sun-splashed shores are famed for their deep blue waters, excellent snorkelling, seaside cafes and incredible scenery — which is also why they’re always teeming with people. But with over 100 beaches scattered around the city, there is something for everyone including plenty of hidden gems that offer the same features and natural beauty with far fewer crowds — you just have to work a little harder to find them. Here are some stellar alternatives to Sydney’s most popular beaches.
1. Bondi – Tamarama
Sitting in the shadow of the far more popular Bondi and Bronte beaches, Tamarama is a small, hidden cove that is just as striking. Often referred to as “Glamarama,” this beach is located around Bondi’s southern headland and offers rocky cliffs, sparkling emerald waters and generally a more tranquil experience than the perennially busy Bondi. One of Sydney’s smallest beaches, Tamarama is renowned for its surf breaks but prone to rough waters so it’s best suited for experienced surfers. It’s patrolled year-round and also has amenities like parking, showers and a cafe.
Distance from Sydney CBD – Around 20 minutes by road or catch a bus from Bondi Junction
2. Manly – Collins Flat Beach
Just a few minutes from packed to the brim Manly is the secluded Collins Flat Beach and it’s one of Sydney’s best secret beaches. Packed with sweeping harbour views, visitors can enjoy a swim in the calm waters, surrounded by unspoilt scenery and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an endangered little penguin. But that’s not all, Collins Flat Beach is the only harbour beach in Sydney with its own waterfall and it’s especially lovely after rainfall. Part of Sydney Harbour National Park, you can find it nestled between North Head and Little Manly Cove.
Distance from Sydney CBD – A 40-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay
3. Coogee Beach – Gordons Bay
Residents in and around the eastern suburbs often flock to Coogee Beach but just around a 10-minute walk from the popular spot is the much quieter Gordons Bay boasting striking blue waters backed by lush bushland. Remember to pack your gear and jump right in — this picturesque spot is home to Sydney’s only underwater nature trail, making it an excellent diving spot. If that’s not your thing, there are plenty of spots to relax and sunbathe. Access to Gordons Bay is limited to pedestrians, either through the surrounding streets or via the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. Read more about its unique underwater nature trail here.
Distance from Sydney CBD – Around 30-minute drive or catch a bus from Bondi Station
4. Palm Beach – Bilgola
As the filming location for the popular soap opera Home and Away, Palm Beach is a local Aussie icon framed by surf on one side and serene Pittwater on the other. While it may not be as crowded as Bondi or Manly, it certainly attracts plenty of visitors. For a quieter experience, consider driving down to the nearby Bilgola Beach instead, one of Sydney’s best secret beaches. The 500m-long surf beach is bordered by a high headland, with a picture-perfect rockpool at the southern end of the beach. Didn’t bring a snack? A kiosk at Bilgola Beach serves light eats and coffee and it is also patrolled on weekends and public holidays.
Distance from Sydney CBD – Around 40-minute drive, or catch a bus from Wynyard Station
5. Balmoral Beach – Chinamans Beach
Framed by elegant homes and expensive yachts, Balmoral Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in Sydney and a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. If you’re looking for a spot all to yourself, just a one-kilometre walk away is the relatively under-the-radar Chinamans Beach. It’s a calm, sheltered beach with no waves making it ideal for families. Enjoy splashing around in the warm, clear waters while watching yachts cruise through Middle Harbour in this tranquil part of town. Find more information about Chinamans Beach here.
Distance from Sydney CBD – Around 20-minute drive with bus options available at the QVB
6. Bronte Beach – Redleaf Beach
The Bronte Beach ocean pool is arguably one of the best in Sydney but with its clear waters and few other people to share it with, Redleaf Beach‘s enclosed Murray Rose Pool could give it a run for its money. The beach boasts gorgeous views of Darling Point and the Harbour Bridge with yachts dotting the horizon. The pool is enclosed by a walkable wraparound pontoon, ensuring a safe swimming experience and making it a popular choice for families. Read more about it here.
Distance from Sydney CBD – 17-minute drive, buses from the QVB