Aside from crystal clear waters in every shade of blue and sandy shores, Sydney beaches also harbour some fun secrets. Some are tucked away in busy parts of town with their own underwater nature trails, some have private waterfalls and some simply cease to exist at certain times of the year. We’re talking about one of Sydney’s most secluded beaches, a little spot just off the Spit to Manly walking track. The sand gets completely washed away from time to time, usually after a storm or high tide therefore giving it the name, Washaway Beach. When it doesn’t, the beach is a 200-metre stretch of sand with lovely views and Aboriginal art on the way.
Washaway Beach, Sydney
Despite being located on one of Sydney’s most popular walking trails, the beach remains one of the city’s most secluded spots and the perfect place to get off the grid. There’s a high chance you might even get it all to yourself. Occasionally, the sand washes away entirely revealing the rocky slabs underneath. So if you’re looking for a spot to sunbathe or enjoy the rays, you might have to do so on the rock platforms. The sand slowly returns when the conditions calm down. Rugged and pretty, Washaway Beach offers excellent views to Balmoral and the ferries heading to and from Manly.
How to get to Washaway Beach
This hidden spot is not easy to find even though it’s located in the center of Sydney but it’s worth the adventure.
The easiest way to get to Washaway Beach is on the gorgeous Spit to Manly walk on the eastern side of Grotto Point. Alternatively, you can park on Cutler Road and walk down on the Lighthouse Track. On the way, you can also spot some Aboriginal rock engravings. You do have to navigate the bush paths and a steep descent down the rocks at the northern end of the beach so wear your most comfortable shoes. Because of its location, it’s not recommended for kids. The best time to visit the beach is during low tide. You can check the tides in Sydney here.
Fair warning: This was formerly a nudist beach and unofficially remains so today so you might find a bather or two baring it all.
Washaway Beach is such a well-hidden spot, that there’s no official website to get more information about it. But you can learn more about the iconic Spit to Manly walk here.