Although Sydney is often considered the concrete jungle of Australia, what lies just minutes past the Sydney Opera House is truly an iconic sight. Sydney is home to some of the greatest beaches in all of Australia, including Darling Harbour and if you’re looking to leave the chaos of the city and relax on the beach, here are some ideal locations to add to your list.

Manly Beach

Usually when you visit a big city beach you know you are at an urban beach, Sydney’s Manly Beach is an exception to that rule.

Manly Beach is one of the more popular beach getaways in Sydney. Take an enjoyable ferry ride from Circular Quay, and you’ll arrive at the semi-secluded beach of Manly.

Manly Beach offers multiple great attractions, such as the Manly to Spit walk, a short hike to the Manly Cliffs to look back at the city of Sydney, or you can just take in the amazing beach vibes. There are multiple shops to rent equipment for popular activities such as surfing or kayaking, so you can fully enjoy what the beach has to offer.

Shelly Beach

unlike the tourist-thronged esplanades of Bondi and Manly, Shelly beach its a local’s paradise.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, Shelly Beach is just a short walk, or kayak, away from Manly Beach.

Shelly Beach consists of a small private cove, which holds a protected marine reserve. This makes for fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach is also protected by the swells of the ocean, so if you’re looking for surf, this beach might not be for you.

Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach holds top ratings amongst Sydney-goers. With pristine sand, crystal clear water, and great surfing and beach life, it’s not a beach you want to miss on your trip to Sydney.

Coogee is ideal for swimming and paddle boarding, or if you’re looking explore, there is no shortage of shops and restaurants just off the beach.

Coogee also offers some of the best coastline look outs in Australia, and is connected to the famous ‘Bondi to Coogee’ walk, which has amazing scenery. This walk passes by multiple bay’s and finally ends at Bondi Beach.

Bronte and Clovelly

Clovelly Beach is my favourite because it is small and protected by a sea wall – no waves!

If you decide to enjoy the coastal walk, Bronte and Clovelly is a short 30 minute walk from Coogee, nestled halfway between Coogee and Bondi. Bronte includes challenging surfing enjoyed by the locals, and homes a famous rock pool for relaxed swimming. Bronte also includes a park, great for picnics and family fun.

Clovelly Beach

At the end of the Bronte Beach, you’ll find yourself approaching Clovelly Beach. Clovelly is nestled between two rocky rims. The inlet is very popular with swimmers and families, with calm protected waters, and a short 60 m long beach.

Bondi Beach

Bondi it’s the one that always gets on TV. If that’s your thing then you’ll have to deal with the crowds, its beautiful golden sand and the iconic lifesavers in red and yellow pulling people out of the surf if necessary.

Arguably one of the most popular beaches in the world, Bondi Beach is the epitome of Sydney beaches. At any time of the year you’ll find Bondi Beach buzzing with fun activities, locals and tourists alike, and great beach life.

Surfers of all levels are welcome at Bondi Beach, and if you’re not inclined to take a dip into the ocean, you can enjoy the Bondi Icebergs Pool, located at the end of the beach. Bondi hosts an array of restaurants and shops, and is only 20 minutes from the heart of Sydney.

Remember at any beach in Sydney, it’s important to practice proper safety techniques, follow beach guidelines, and know how to survive riptides.

If you have a favorite beach spot where you live,. tell us about it! Or.. if you spot a beach worth telling our audience about we’d like to feature it on our blog.