Looking for a slice of paradise in Sydney without the crowds? Lucky for you because alongside its world-famous beaches, the harbour city also offers sweet escapes to secluded spots around town which you can often get all to yourself. One such tiny and isolated beach lies within the Sydney Harbour National Park, in front of the historic Strickland House in Vaucluse and remains one of the Eastern Suburbs’ best-kept secrets. Milk Beach is the spot to seek out as the weather gets warmer for a picnic under the sun and opportunities for fishing and snorkelling. The beach also directly faces the Sydney Harbour offering some of the most epic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the glittering city skyline and serene scenes of boats passing by.
Milk Beach, Sydney
Take a breather from the city crowds and make your way to the beautiful Hermitage Foreshore Walk, one of Sydney’s finest coastal walks with views for days. The scenic walk offers a splendid way to explore the harbour flanked by views of Sydney islands. Along the walk, you’ll also find a small 50-metre-long beach that stands out because of its striking views of the harbour, especially lovely on candy-coloured sunset days. Also in the vicinity are equally pretty beaches like Queens Beach, Tingara Beach and Shark Beach although you’ll be hard-pressed to find such an uninterrupted view of the city skyline and harbour.
Milk Beach also has calm waters without surf, making it perfect for a swim. Although perfectly safe for a swim, it’s always advised to be mindful of rocks and marine stingers.
Wondering how it got its name? It was the location where boats made milk deliveries to Strickland House, hence the name.
How to get to Milk Beach
Follow the Hermitage Foreshore Walking track to get to Milk Beach, which is easily accessible from either Rose Bay or Watsons Bay. It can also be accessed by public transport — either catch a ferry to Rose Bay or hop on a train to Edgecliffe Station and bus it towards Vaucluse. Off-street parking is available but limited. There are also no facilities at the beach. Get all the information about the Hermitage Foreshore Walk at the NSW National Parks website and read more about Milk Beach here.