On the NSW North Coast, Kingscliff Beach is the ideal location for a beach vacation because it has everything you need without the crowds. You have over 13 kilometres of golden sand to walk along with scarcely anyone in sight from the Cudgen Headland breakwater to Fingal Head. The river's mouth at Gudgen is a great place for families, kayakers, and paddleboarders. The beach is a well-known surfing location, and world champion surfer Stephanie Gilmore resides there. Once you've worked up an appetite, the coastline is lined with a variety of stores and eateries that call. If you choose to stay at Kingscliff for a few days, there are a few caravan parks ideal for a low-cost vacation and two fantastic resorts, Mantra at Kingscliff and Peppers at Salt Beach.

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The renowned Main Beach is Byron Bay's most well-known stretch of sand despite the fact that there are several wonderful beaches to pick from there. Main Beach is conveniently located in front of the town's centre and offers excellent swimming conditions with typically relatively gentle waves.

A huge grassy park area directly behind the beach is a well-liked gathering place with nice amenities like picnic tables, barbecues, restrooms, and play areas. It draws residents and guests from many walks of life and backgrounds, fostering a pleasantly peaceful environment. The main beach in Byron Bay is constantly patrolled by surf life rescuers, who have a clubhouse right in the middle of the beach. One of Australia's earliest surf lifesaving groups is the Byron Bay Surf Club, which was established in 1907.

With its vegetation backdrop on the cliff behind, silky white sand, and crystal-clear water, The Pass in Byron Bay is an aesthetically lovely beach. With shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and (often) consistent surf conditions with long-running waves that are perfect for beginners through experienced riders, this beach is ideal for many beachgoers. The Pass, which is 800 metres long and located outside of town, is less popular than Byron's Main Beach. Enjoy the views of the Pass from Fisherman's Lookout, and if you go between June and November, you might catch a glimpse of whales migrating. Parking spaces are difficult to come by and cost $4 per hour each vehicle; on Massinger St., parking is offered for free for four hours and is more accessible. The distance to the shore is then 1.5 kilometres along the Cape Byron Walking Track. Byron Bay is a carefree beachside community well-known for its shops, cafes, restaurants, and surrounding natural beauty. It attracts tourists all year round and should be on your list to visit.

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Wategos Beach is a nice stretch of sheltered sand with great amenities and is widely regarded as the prettiest beach in the Byron Bay region. Wategos is located in Byron Bay not far from Main Beach. It's a charming little beach and often you can spot everyone there, from ballplayers with families to surfers, and maybe even a few dolphins off in the distance! Although it's a well-liked location, the bulk of people stay in the vicinity of the parking lot; the northern end of the beach is more quieter. When you're done lounging around, take a quick trek up to the top of the lighthouse to watch the sunset. The pleasant surf that Wategos produces, which is suitable for beginning surfers, is one of the reasons it is so well-liked. You'll enjoy the serene splendour of this protected beach on Cape Byron's northern side. It's a wonderful place to picnic and play because the headland shields it from the more untamed waters beyond Wategos Beach. It is also used by the neighbourhood bottlenose dolphins for entertainment, as they display their fluid surfing prowess on the approaching waves.

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You'll never have a difficulty finding a spot on this gorgeous stretch of beach because Tallow Beach is so enormous. If you're feeling upbeat, you can go surfing, relax, or take a long stroll. The sand is compact, making it a beautiful easy walk. Lush vegetation surrounds Tallow Beach, giving it a wild vibe. If you're really lucky, you might even spot a koala there!

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The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour is directly across the street from the perennially famous Diggers Beach. Diggers provides for a beautiful wind-free beach walk because it is wide and protected.

This beach is popular among residents for swimming, surfing, and fishing as well as with tourists. If you'd like to keep dry, there are lots of activities available. You may travel the short trail to Macauleys Headland or have a seat at the elevated pavillion to take in the view and observe the birds. This Coffs Harbour beach's mild swell, protected shore, and broad, sandy banks draw both tourists and residents. Locals swear by early dips to avoid crowds and the normal mid-north coast breezes on the beach's southern end, which has calm waves. Take a look at the Aboriginal dreamtime rock creation on the headland if you have time, and don't forget to visit the well-known Big Banana.

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When visiting Bellingen or Coffs Harbour, a visit to Bongil beach is a true hidden treasure and a must-do activity.You might not expect that on your way to Bongil beach, in Bongil Bongil National Park, you’ll be among the home to one of NSW's largest concentrations of wild koalas. Bongil Beach is 7 kilometres long, meaning you’ll easily find a private stretch just for yourself. The compact, easy-to-walk-on sand makes it ideal for extended strolls. You can also try surfing here, or you can choose to unwind and ponder how you managed to get the entire amazing beach to yourself.

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A visit to Horseshoe Bay at South West Rocks, one of the six NSW beaches recognised by Tourism Australia's Top 20 Best Australian Beaches list for 2022, won't let you down. Yes, as the name suggests, it is formed like a horseshoe and is tucked between two creeks. This lovely tiny beach has calm blue waters which is ideal for young families. Horseshoe Bay Beach lies in the middle of South West Rocks' commercial zone and near to some lucrative fishing spots. You can go to the picturesque, crescent-shaped trial bay front beach, which also has a picnic spot and a camping area, and tranquil, safe water for swimming and water sports. Dolphins and sting rays are frequently visible up close along the shore. For everyone who enjoys calm waters, this beach is ideal. The waves are stopped by the sandbar farther out, and the water remains shallow for a considerable distance. There are trees that provide some shade along the top of the beach. This is also a dog-friendly beach meaning you can take your four-legged pal along. Camping grounds, cabin lodging, picnic places, barbecues, parking, amenities blocks, and a kiosk are available as amenities. During spring, fall, and summer vacations as well as summer weekends, the beach is patrolled.

Port Macquarie, which is less than 400 kilometres from Sydney, is a well-liked rest point along an East Coast drive. Backpackers, couples, and families all adore Town Beach in Port Macquarie. It is conveniently located adjacent to Port Macquarie's downtown, making it accessible.

From September to April, the 600-meter-long beach is patrolled, making it a secure place for little ones. As a result of the large number of surfers that come to enjoy the waves, it is also known as a surfer's paradise. Town Beach's colourful break wall gives it its own special appeal. You can observe colourful graffiti and memorials that both visitors and locals have left on these walls and rocks. The weather in January is pleasant, and by the end of the month, when the summer break is over, it is much less congested.

Image: Instagram/walkportmacquarie

Lighthouse Beach is a breathtaking 9 km long stretch of sand, so you won't have to worry about finding a location all to yourself here. There are many sites from which you can access the beach, but Watonga Rocks is a favourite due to the novelty factor. The rock formations, which are lovely and grippy when dry, can be climbed up upon or into. To get a great view of the beach's sunset, head up the stairs at the northern end of the beach and onto the grassy knoll next to the Tacking Point Lighthouse. Dogs are not allowed on this beach's northernmost stretch, which is closest to the lighthouse, but are permitted off-leash from Watonga Rocks south to the 4WD beach access point at Lake Cathie. There is a sizable, open area of sand with lots of space for off-leash enjoyment.

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One of those beaches that feels far from the rest of the world is Shelly Beach, which can only be reached on foot. It is extremely stunning and has gorgeous, tranquil water, making it the ideal swimming spot. Even though it's just a short stroll to the beach through the forest, it feels incredibly remote. There is something for everyone on the beach, which has clothing optional on one side and everyone in swimwear on the other. It is the kind of place that is incredibly difficult to leave because it is backed by spectacular headlands on each side. You can stop at Elizabeth Beach en route; it has a lifesaving club and is normally a secure area for swimming with surf lifesavers in the summer. Shelly Beach is not much of a surf beach; Boomerang is a better choice for that.

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One of New South Wales's greatest hidden secret beaches is Boomerang Beach. Boomerang Beach is around 20 minutes from Forster and about 3 hours from Sydney by car. Myall Lakes are on one side of the region, but the beaches on the other are absolutely breathtaking.

Four of Australia's top beaches will be found in a row, so expect to see them there. NSW has some spectacular beaches with white sand and crystal-clear blue water, including Bluey's Beach, Boomerang Beach, and Elizabeth Beach. Boomerang beach is also dog friendly with on-leash and off leash areas.

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Treachery Beach is unlike any other beach on this list and is absolutely stunning. Before going, you might have no idea what to anticipate; travel 900 metres through the forest to reach the beach, and be met by breathtaking views. The beach is really enormous, wild, and windy, yet nevertheless you’ll most likely have it almost entirely to yourself! Treachery Beach is a must-visit if leisurely strolls down the sand are your notion of bliss. This beach is also a great spot to see both Humpback whales and pods of dolphins from the sand.

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Bennetts Beach, also known as Hawks Nest Beach, is a stunning 14 km long stretch of white sand that is situated in Hawks Nest, just north of Newcastle. The beach, which is popular with swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers alike, is situated halfway between Yakaba Headland and Seal Rocks in the north. Bennetts Beach is busiest towards its southern end, which is also where the Tea Gardens Hawks Nest SLSC, the neighbourhood surf club, is situated. In the area behind the beach, there are many cafes and eateries where you may go for lunch or a coffee.

Dogs are permitted off-leash in the areas south of Yacaaba Headland and a few kilometres north of the main beach. At the award-winning Bennetts Beach, both body surfers and board riders can enjoy the waves at the beach's southernmost section, which is referred to as The Dolphins Playground. When the wind is up, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and kitesurfing are all excellent activities along the stretch of water that meets the white dunes.

The sand at Bennetts Beach might compete with Hyams on a sunny day! It is sparkling white, and the water appears to be turquoise. The headlands in the distance provide as a really lovely backdrop, and the entire beach is just amazing. This beach is undoubtedly one of our favourites among the numerous lovely ones in Port Stephens.

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A little but stunning strip of sand called Zenith Beach is tucked in between two sharp headlands in Port Stephens. It's one of those locations that when you see pictures of it, you wonder if the real thing could possibly look as amazing. This beach is a great place to visit for sunrise because it tends to be crowded on the weekends but remains peaceful for a few hours following.

You may need to find a parking spot a bit further away because it is only a short distance from a very small car park, which is also where the renowned Tomaree Head Summit hike begins.

Due to its many distinctive characteristics, this region is a wonder of the NSW coast. For instance, Stockton Bight, a small desert with the biggest shifting sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, is worthwhile of a trip on its own. You can go sandboarding, on safari, stargaze, and other activities.

Regarding Zenith Beach, it is a treasure for landscape photography in Port Stephens and all of New South Wales. The beach is bordered by Tomaree Head Mountain on the Northside, which creates a lovely backdrop. In the front, there are a few reddish rocks in the sand. Walking around Shoal Bay and surfing are two other popular pastimes due to the area's large waves. Without traffic, the 215 km trip from Sydney's CBD to the beach takes 2 hours and 40 minutes.

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This beach is surrounded by the enormous sand dunes known as the Worimi Conservation Area, which you could easily explore on your own for a day or try your hand at dune surfing. One of the entrances for 4-wheel drive vehicles to the renowned Worimi Conservation Lands is the beach, which is accessible at the end of James Patterson Street in Anna Bay.No matter how many cars are parked in the parking lot, you won't run into any issues once you start walking along the beach for a while. This is also a wonderful chance to take a camel ride along the beach on a daytime or sunset adventure, operating six days a week. Dogs are welcome at Birubi Beach all day, every day! The fact that they can run free before 9 am and after 5 pm is much better. If your dog is on a leash at all other times, you are permitted to bring them to the beach (as long as you stay 100 metres away from the flagged area).

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When travelling from Sydney to Newcastle, there’s a few great beaches to visit including Nobby’s Beach and Merewether Beach. Merewether, on the town's northern edge, frequently leads lists of Australia's and even the world's best beaches. Merewether is well known for more than just its good looks; the beach is also a National Surf Reserve and hosts the yearly "Surfest" competition. The Merewether Ocean Baths are a fantastic attraction, especially if you go with little children. Although there is enough to keep you occupied throughout the year, the summer months are the finest if you want to take advantage of swimming, beaches, and outdoor attractions. Newcastle is just a two-hour drive from Sydney, 160 kilometres to the north. Regular trains also run between the two cities, and if you go on a Sunday, Sydney Rail offers a special weekend discount on the fare. The Newcastle Museum, the old Fort Scratchley, and Nobby's Lighthouse are the highlights of visiting Newcastle.

Nobbys Beach, the most well-known beach in Newcastle, is a favourite swimming location for families, surfers just starting out, and even some local dolphins. It's the ideal place to spend the day because it has a beach on one side and a public recreation area with barbeque facilities on the other. The kiosk that sells coffee, cakes, fish, chips, and burgers is a bonus. Walking along the Nobbys break-wall, which is located beneath the recognisable Nobbys Lighthouse, is a must-do. If you're lucky, you'll get to see some toiling tug boats guiding a coal ship into the harbour. The popular Bathers Way walk's northernmost point is Nobbys Beach. The cafe on Nobbys Beach also has excellent food and shakes, coffee, and cold drinks, and the walk around to Newcastle Beach is picturesque.

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Newcastle's Dudley Beach, which has the largest ocean pool in the Southern Hemisphere, is a must-see not just for any beach lover, but for anyone that likes roadtrips and vacations. It's perfect for exploration and relaxation thanks to rockpools, a golden shore, blowholes, and world-class surf, and on the northern end, there's a clothes-optional area. Dudley Beach has also made the list of the best 20 beaches in the country, beating out more than 11,000 contenders. This beach is a true hidden gem; the unspoilt wilderness of the beach, where golden dunes meet green coastal vegetation and turquoise waters, has long been one of the city's best-kept secrets. The beach is located within one of NSW's most popular national parks, the 500ha Glenrock State Conservation Area, meaning you can’t take dogs here. Glenrock is valuable for its Aboriginal heritage, threatened species like squirrel gliders, and endangered biological systems like littoral rainforest.

Swansea, the largest of Lake Macquarie's seaside communities, is home to Caves Beach, a magnificent 300-meter surf beach that is only 130 kilometres from Sydney. This beach offers activities for everyone, whether you want to hit the surf or fill your bucket with seashells. From September to April, the Swansea-Caves SLSC patrols the family-friendly beach, which has excellent public amenities like restrooms, a change room, showers, plenty of parking, and a great picnic area with barbecues and lots of shade. Alongside is a café where you may get a quick caffeine fix or satisfy your appetite. The south end of Caves Beach is home to a complex network of sea caves that can be visited and explored during low tide, as well as a series of critter-filled rock pools. For those who like to be active, a lovely 900-metre coastal walking path connects Caves Beach with Quarries Head, a charming headland with breathtaking ocean views. Despite the fact that none of the caverns are individually as spectacular as those at Ghosties Beach (below), they are nevertheless amazing and even more accessible. The golden sand is also wonderful, and the northern end is peaceful, but the caverns at the southern end are actually what earned this beach a spot on our list.

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Ghosties beach is a stunning beach with a massive rock wall backing it up, giving it a wild atmosphere with imposing cliff that encircle it on both sides. However, what lies at the southern end of the beach is what really makes it remarkable. The most breathtaking sea caverns in the state are located in Ghosties, and they are all accessible (providing you get the conditions right, and you explore safely). One of the main canyons almost resembles a slot canyon and leads you through a little opening into a cave with a rainbow of colours. Even the red and gold caves, which are just past the main cave, can be reached if you're fortunate enough to catch an extremely low tide. The sea is a deep blue colour on a sunny day, and the beach is a stunning expanse of immaculate sand. It usually is peaceful because there is no direct entrance from a parking lot, which only heightens the sense that you have landed in your own private paradise. Just over a kilometre of flat terrain separates the parking lot and the beach (except for the tiny uphill section between the beaches). Once you arrive, your only options are to unwind or start exploring the amazing sea caverns and arches. The tide and swell are the most crucial factors to take into account when exploring the sea caves. Here, the swell is crucial because, even in cases of low swell, the caverns still take the full impact of the incoming waves. To comfortably and safely explore the caves, you need low tide and low swell.

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Avoca Beach is a Central Coast coastal suburb with a well-known beach by the same name. Terrigal, a popular beach and vacation spot on the Central Coast, is nearby, but Avoca Beach is more tranquil and may even be more attractive. The beach itself is patrolled and has excellent surfing, terrific swimming, a rock pool, and a gated playground for children. The neighbourhood has a tonne of cafés and restaurants where you can grab a coffee and something to eat, in addition to other activities like hiking, kayaking, and stand-up paddling. Outdoor enthusiasts will love this place because there are so many sports to choose from: kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, scuba diving, fishing, pedal boats, bushwalking, and surfing, to mention a few. Your dogs can run free in a lively and welcoming atmosphere in Avoca and North Avoca Beach. From View Street at North Avoca Beach to the Avoca Beach Shark Tower, there is a 600-meter off-leash zone. Many dogs take pleasure in swimming in the sea or lagoon. You may also stroll through the relaxed cafe-filled Avoca Beach Village with your dog (on a leash).

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You can only get to Maitland Bay's remote and private beach by taking a trekking track through the forest, so when you do, you might find that the entire beach is all to yourself. The walking pathway that departs from the Bouddi National Park Information Center is the simplest and most scenic ay to get to Maitland Bay Beach. The steep 1-kilometer track then dips through lush bushland and continues all the way to the beach. It is also highly advised that you continue strolling down the beach there until you reach Bouddi Point, where you may see the ruins of an old shipwreck.

There is a boardwalk along the ocean that is both beautiful and convenient to walk on. The colours of the tessellated pavement are stunning on a sunny day. Even though the beach is not constantly guarded, swimming is generally very safe. By taking the track off Scenic Road, you can get to Maitland Bay even if you aren't undertaking the Bouddi coastal walk. The only thing to do in Maitland Bay is swim and take in the solitude, which is one of its many attractions. Although the water may be too chilly to swim in the winter, this is a fantastic NSW beach to visit at any time of the year.

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Umina Beach on the Central Coast is a great place to go if you want to avoid the crowds at Sydney's well-known beaches. Umina Beach, which overlooks Broken Bay and Brisbane Water, is ideal for swimming and other water sports. A lengthy stretch of sand facing Broken Bay, Umina Beach offers views of Box Head to the east, Lion Island to the south, and Barrenjoey Headland to the north.

Actually known as Ocean Beach, the northern section of Umina Beach also has its own surf lifesaving club. This long, sandy beach, is perfect for families to enjoy a day at and for surfing. Even though it can get crowded here on warm days, there is typically space farther away closer to where the Umina SLSC is located.

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The Palm Beach peninsula is one of NSW’s most well-known beach districts, which is situated 41 kilometres north of Sydney's CBD. It's a rather calm beach suburb compared to, say, Bondi Beach or Manly because of its somewhat remote location. However, on sunny weekends, when day-trippers are in high demand, it's a different story. Strong winds can cause the water at the beach facing the ocean to be a little choppy, but the smaller beach facing Pittwater on the opposite side of the peninsula offers much calmer water and is ideal for a leisurely swim. The beach has a wide expanse of golden sand that attracts both sunbathers and surfers. If you prefer swimming in calm water, there is also a magnificent ocean bath near the southern end. When whales are in season, ascending to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse provides amazing beach views as well as the opportunity to go whale watching.

In the Northern Beaches area, adjacent to Palm Beach, there is a lovely 600-meter-long stretch of sand known as Whale Beach. Whale Beach is less well known than its larger neighbour, but it is typically lot quieter and provides a lovely sense of seclusion. A man-made rock pool may be found at Whale Beach, just like at many other Sydney beaches. At the southern end of the beach is the 25 metre long Whale Beach Rock Pool, one of Sydney's most attractive rock pools. Two 40-meter-high sandstone headlands, Little Head at the northern end of the beach and Careel Head at the southern end, encircle Whale Beach. The views from those headlands are very breathtaking, so it's worth investigating them.

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Sydney's two well-known beaches, Manly and Bondi, are debatable when it comes to which is the greatest. But because they are so dissimilar from one another, we think they both belong on this list of NSW's top beaches. There are two main beaches in Manly, one facing the harbour and with normally calm waters, and the other facing the ocean and with rougher surf. Shelly Beach is a small, quiet stretch of sand with calm water and great amenities that is right next to Manly's major beach.

The ferry from Circular Quay is the best method to travel to Manly. If you're feeling particularly fit, another, albeit trickier, way to get to Manly Beach is by walking the Spit to Manly walking trail. At Manly Lagoon, your dog will be free to run alongside the water's edge. From the playground at Queenscliff Beach to Pittwater Road, this is a dog beach.

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The gorgeous Balmoral Beach in Sydney's Middle Harbour offers calm waves, a swimming cage, and wonderful picnic areas. The grassy areas are ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, while the Esplanade directly behind the beach offers a wide selection of cafes and restaurants. The water looks to be calm all the time because of its protected location, which makes it ideal for swimming. Go snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding to get a little additional exercise. Numerous hiking trails are available nearby, and one of them leads to Taronga Zoo on the other side of Sydney Harbor.

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We had to include Bondi Beach in this list of the greatest beaches in New South Wales, which may not come as a surprise. Bondi is an iconic Australian beach with outstanding swimming and surfing conditions, a large picnic space, a lot of cafes and restaurants, and even an outdoor gym. Some people adore it, while others despise it. A special mention should also be made of Bronte Beach, which is close by Bondi. Compared to Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach is considerably more kid- and family-friendly. In addition, Bronte features a nice park directly behind the beach and a charming strip of eateries across the street.

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Coogee Beach, a 400-meter stretch of sand facing Coogee Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs, is frequently referred to as the more compact version of Bondi Beach. The water is often extremely suitable for swimming, despite not being the best beach for surfing. The huge parkland area known as Goldstein Reserve, which is directly behind the beach, includes fantastic amenities like picnic tables, barbecues, picnic shelters, and plenty of shade-giving trees. Wylie's Baths, a sizable ocean tide pool that has been in operation since 1907, may be found a little further south.

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Just south of Coogee is Maroubra Beach, one of Sydney's most well-liked surfing locations. Even on warm, sunny days, there will almost always be space to spread out your towel due to the beach's length and width. There is free space all around Maroubra Beach. Mahon Pool, Jack Vanny Memorial Park, and the rocky headland are all to the beach's north. The Arthur Byrne Reserve and headland are to the south of the beach, while Broadarrow Reserve is to the west. Maroubra beach is a clean beach, excellent for surfing, and offers a pleasant stroll and opportunity to walk with your dog. There is a skate park, a nature reserve, and a playground for kids close by. The fact that there are fewer people throughout the middle of the week is also fantastic. At one end of the beach, there is a breeding habitat for grey nurse sharks; heed the warnings and keep clear of the sharks. There is a tonne of parking available, as well as a tonne of places to eat, drink, and relax. The stroll down the coast is enjoyable and not too challenging.

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Congwong Beach near Sydney Airport is another of the six NSW beaches that are among the best 20 beaches in all of Australia. It includes a lot of wide, red rocks that are ideal for insta-worthy photos or admiring the gorgeous surroundings. Congwong beach is a favourite among snorkelers and families due to the marine life and calm seas, and a 10-kilometer ocean track to Little Bay is just a short distance away, making it ideal for active people. This family-friendly beach is about 15 kilometres from Sydney's downtown and is close to eateries and walking paths. Congwong, a neighbourhood in La Perouse, is close to the Kamay Botany Bay National Park's Anzac Parade entrance. Parking is available at Cann Park, close by, and in the area of the Anzac Loop; from there, it takes around five minutes to walk to the beach along Congwong Track. Cann Park is accessible by bus, and there is plenty of parking; but, on weekends and during school breaks, it fills up rapidly, so get there early to get a spot! There are restrooms, trash cans, and a few good eating establishments outside the parking circle that are located outside the national park. And if that weren't enough, a boat that sells ice cream and cool drinks usually arrives on weekends, which is a welcome treat for children (and adults!). Congwong Beach is a new favourite for many due to its easy-to-paddle waters, abundance of activities, and relatively undiscovered reputation. A great family outing is made possible by the abundance of local wildlife and beautiful views of the surrounding area (not to mention the boat that brings ice cream!).

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With so many stunning beaches, the Cronulla Peninsula south of Sydney is a favourite weekend getaway location for many Sydneysiders. North Cronulla Beach is a stunning 400-meter-long stretch of sand that faces Bate Bay and is well-liked by surfers. However, swimming there can be fairly dangerous because of the strong rip currents that are nearly always there. Immediately behind the beach, next to Dunningham Park, which includes a sizable playground, as well as a few well-known cafes and restaurants, the North Cronulla SLSC has a famous clubhouse. South Cronulla Beach, a tiny, kid-friendly stretch of sand surrounded by a beautiful park with wonderful amenities and a variety of cafes to pick from, is just a short stroll from North Cronulla. One of Sydney's most gorgeous beaches is found in Cronulla, which is named after the Aboriginal word kurranulla, which means "place of pink seashells." Between North Cronulla Beach and Cronulla Beach, on the beach that locals call "The Alley," are rock pools.

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One of our favourite isolated beaches in Sydney is only a 30-minute walk away, but it's well worth the effort to get there (and yes, it's all uphill on the way back) in Royal National Park. Garie Beach, a well-liked surf beach in the Royal National Park with designated parking and other amenities, is patrolled by its own Surf Life Saving Club. Due to the rips and tides at Garie Beach, swimming may be rather dangerous, hence it is strongly advised that you always stay between the flags for your protection. Another lovely stretch of beach in this National Park, Era Beach, is accessible from Garie Beach through a lovely coastal walk.

Whale watching, fishing, surfing, swimming, bird viewing, and forest walking are all excellent activities at Garie Beach. The greatest seat in the house is at Governor Game Lookout, so get up there. The lush hills in the background definitely add to the appeal, and this spot is never extremely crowded. For one of Sydney's more daring day activities, trek around to the well-known Figure of 8 Pools if the tide is low.

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With lifeguards on duty, this Wollongong beach is one of the most well-liked and family-friendly in the region. On the southern end of the rather modest beach, which spans for 250m, are two sizable rock pools. The best place to swim is in the middle of the beach since, although having two headlands to protect it, rips can still happen at either end. Dogs are welcome at Little Austinmer Beach (off-leash), which is on the beach's northern end. Although Austinmer Beach, a well-liked stretch of sand north of Wollongong, is not as well-known as most of the other beaches on this list of the greatest beaches in New South Wales, it has a lot to offer. At Austinmer Beach, you'll find first-rate amenities like two fantastic ocean pools, a big parking lot, summertime beach patrol, public restrooms, and public showers. Austinmer is one of the Coal Coast's most well-liked beaches and is just over an hour from Sydney after travelling down a meandering coastal route and over the well-known Sea Cliff Bridge. It's worth at least a day trip thanks to its twin ocean pools, large sandy beach, clean water, and rocky outcrop just right for exploring. Lifeguards are on duty every day from September to April at the southern end of the beach, where the Austinmer Surf Club and Pavilion is located. There is a children's playground, a shaded picnic area, and plenty of all-day parking.

Locals love the popular Shells Diner across the street for food and drinks; continue walking to Moore St's collection of eateries built in early 1900s structures or the Headlands Hotel. Austinmer is also reachable by train, and Moore Street leads directly to the shore.

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Another gem on the South Coast of New South Wales is Gerroa. Gerroa, which is located near the mouth of the Crooked River and the northernmost point of Seven Mile Beach National Park, is a tiny community that can be reached by car from Sydney in about two hours. It is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, complete with a river and a surf beach. If you prefer calmer waters, you can kayak or swim in the river or launch your boat from the boat ramp. If you want to surf, fish, or swim in the waves, you can do so. Take a stroll around the streets for stunning views of the coastline and the countryside. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins playing in the sea

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Jervis Bay’s Greenfield’s Beach boasts a stunning emerald green water and white sand. Swimmers and surfers alike enjoy the tide. You can cherish the time you spend with your loved ones and friends relaxing in what seems like paradise. Everything is so ideal for those who love the sea and outdoor sports because it is not too crowded. With crystal-clear water that is nearly always tranquil and undisturbed, it is the ideal beach for swimming. Sunglasses are a necessary since the incredibly smooth sand is impossible white! All the amenities you need for a leisurely afternoon are available, including free BBQs. The beach, which is a part of Jervis Bay National Park, was ranked among the top 50 beaches worldwide in 2016. From Chinamans Beach, take a short stroll along White Sands Track through a lovely scribbly gum forest. If you're driving, there is parking and restrooms available. The beach is less crowded than Hyams, the sand is white, and the water is gorgeously pure.

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The beach with the whitest sand in the world (it's even listed in the Guiness Book of Records!) has to be included in this list of the best beaches in NSW. One of New South Wales' most picturesque beaches is found in Hyams Beach, a seaside community on the shores of Jervis Bay, about 180 kilometres south of Sydney. Hyams Beach receives a lot of buzz, but it truly lives up to it; it's amazing. Despite being fairly crowded, there is plenty of space to sprawl out because the beach is so long. You can go very early in the morning if you prefer your beaches to be extremely calm. You won't have to share this magnificent location with many other people for a few hours following the sunrise. The beach is simple to get to—you just need to take a few steps down to the sand—but finding parking can be challenging if you go during the day.

Known for its sparkling turquoise water and brilliant white sand, Hyams Beach is a well-liked vacation spot for Sydneysiders. And for good reason—the greater Jervis Bay region offers a wealth of attractions and activities, including whale watching, snorkelling, hiking, swimming, and fishing. Within the magnificent Jervis Bay National Park, Hyams Beach is a gorgeous piece of paradise known for its flawless, brilliant white beaches. The superfine sand is recognised as the whitest sand in the world by the Guinness Book of Records. Days here can be easily passed lounging on the sugar-soft beach, taking a dip in the sparkling blue water, fishing, snorkelling, or enjoying delectable regional cuisine at Hyams Beach General Store & Cafe, the sole cafe in the community. There are many opportunities for birdwatching and animal observation as you wander the trails in the wilderness behind, including koalas high in the trees!

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You can find another stunning location not far from Hyams in Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay. White sand, turquoise sea, and it seems like fewer people are aware of this one. This can be a great substitute if you really want to go to Hyams but find that it's too crowded when you get there. It's a very stunning beach, so always comparing it to Hyams certainly doesn't do it justice either. It's understandable why Murray's Beach in Jervis Bay made the top 20 beaches list this year with a stunning sea cave. Turtles, squid, and blue gropers love to hang around in the waters and reefs and aren't afraid to say hello to swimmers and snorkelers. Bowen Island, where a family of young penguins resides, is also close by, so those who enjoy animals won't ever be without cuteness.

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Although it is incredibly picturesque, this one is mentioned because it is frequented by stunning Eastern grey kangaroos rather than because it is the most attractive on the list. Who wouldn't want to see one of Australia's most recognisable creatures relaxing on the beach? If you visit during the day, you can find the roos on the grassy spot by the campground behind the beach. Make sure to go towards sunset. From Forster's Main Beach, take the coastal Bicentennial Walk for a short trek to Pebbly Beach. It's a great destination for families and is well-known for the Tanks rock structure, a charming little inlet perfect for swimming and resting. Despite its name, the beach has a lot of sand and vast sections of round, ocean-polished rocks for excellent snorkelling.

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Kangaroo sightings are uncommon, but Depot Beach, which is close to Batemans Bay, isn't just any beach. Depot Beach, another of Australia's top beaches in 2022, is encircled by a lush, ancient rainforest that is home to a wide variety of natural fauna. Stay for a day or a few days—a there's campground directly across from the beach where you can leave your belongings while you explore the rockpools by the water's edge.

Three and a half hours south of Sydney, you'll take a left off the Princes Highway and travel through Murramarang National Park. This white sandy beach, which is the park's focal point, is bordered by towering Spotted Gum trees, tranquil blue waters, and coastal cliffs. The Depot Beach campground is perfectly situated and includes the essential amenities needed for a weekend getaway or a longer camping stay. Although there isn't much risk from large waves, the beach is unpatrolled, the water depth fluctuates abruptly, and it's not a great place for swimming. However, it can be nice for a paddle in the shallows. There is a rock ledge next to a deep channel that is an excellent place to cast your line if you enjoy fishing. Kids will find much to keep them entertained at Depot Beach, including boulders, rock pools, and wildlife. Depot Beach is worth visiting at any time of year, but if you want to get the most out of the rock pools and your beach walk, head there at low tide. While you're here, visit North Durras Beach, a lovely beach where you can go swimming, fishing, and having fun on the sand. Take caution though, as it is not patrolled and there are powerful currents and rips.

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Broulee Beach, a lengthy and breathtaking stretch of sand protected by Broulee Island, is just a short distance south of Batemans Bay. There are numerous outdoor activities available at Broulee Beach, including kayaking, snorkelling, diving, surfing, and fishing. It's not surprising that people prefer to spend a long weekend at Broulee Beach given the proximity to Batemans Bay. This lengthy beach on the south coast, just south of Batemans Bay, is great for families since it has gradually sloping sand, Broulee Island-protected surf, and a nature reserve nearby. You can walk to Broulee Island, where there is a small rainforest to explore, thanks to the sand bar at the end of the beach. Keep an eye out for migratory whales, dolphins, and birds while you're at the beach.

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