Cronulla Rock Pool, CronullaCredit: Destination NSW
Bird's eye view over Cronulla Rock Pool, Cronulla in Sydney's south.
Sydney is a playground for wave chasers and saltwater seekers. From the thunderous breaks of Maroubra to the iconic curl of Bondi, the city’s surf beaches offer adrenaline-pumping action for board riders of every level. But the thrill doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Sydney’s ocean pools are the ultimate place to keep your heart rate up. Whether you're diving into the turquoise calm of Bronte Baths or swimming laps at Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, these spots invite you to move, explore and soak up the coastal energy.
Sydney’s Best Surf Beaches
Manly Beach is one of Australia’s most iconic surf spots, famed as the site of the world’s first surfing contest in 1964. This two-kilometre stretch of golden sand, framed by Norfolk pines, draws surfers of all levels. On most days, you’ll see eager learners and senior shredders paddling out, chasing that perfect wave.
The iconic Bondi Beach delivers waves and high-energy surf culture, making it a bucket-list surf destination for board riders.
Just around the headland, Bronte Beach shows off with its consistent swells and a laid-back local vibe, making it a favourite for surfers chasing both challenge and charm.
Lets Go Surfing, Bondi Beach Credit: Destination NSW
Small group enjoying a learning to surf experience with Lets Go Surfing, Bondi Beach.
Lets Go Surfing, Bondi Beach Credit: Destination NSW
Small group enjoying a learning to surf experience with Lets Go Surfing, Bondi Beach.
An official National Surfing reserve, the gorgeous Maroubra Beach is one of Australia’s top surf spots. Framed by rocky headlands, bushland and wide green parks—perfect for post-surfing picnics or coastal walks. A little further south of Bronte, this is a go-to for surfers chasing serious swells.
Around 45-minutes from the CBD, perched on a peninsula looking over the Royal National Park sits the beaches of Cronulla. Cronulla Beach, North Cronulla Beach and Wanda Beach are famous surf spots where you can learn the thrill of riding a wave onto shore at various local surf schools, such as Cronulla Surfing Academy.
Up north is home to another iconic surf beach with world-famous North Narrabeen break. North Narrabeen break, the breeding ground of some of the world's best surfers, including world champions. It is also the site of numerous local, national and international events.
Head to the northern end of Palm Beach for some serious waves and Dee Why Point for a right-hand point break.
North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer in the waters off North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen on Sydney's northern beaches.
North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer in the waters off North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen on Sydney's northern beaches.
North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying the surf at North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen.
North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying the surf at North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen.
Sydney’s Best Ocean Pools
From cliffside laps to tidal plunges, Sydney’s ocean and rock pools offer a refreshing way to stay active while soaking up the city’s salty edge.
Cronulla is home to some of Sydney’s most beautiful rock pools. Located on a rocky platform between Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach, North Cronulla Rock Pool is the northernmost and smaller of two ocean baths in Cronulla. Next to it, Cronulla Beach rock pool is a full-sized, eight-lane pool that is perfect for swimming laps right next to the ocean. Farther around the point is Oak Park Rock Pool.
Mahon Pool is a peaceful rock pool located just north of Maroubra Beach, at the base of Jack Vanny Reserve. Surrounded by natural rock formations and coastal cliffs, it offers a scenic spot for a swim. Access is via a set of steps leading down from Marine Parade, with parking available nearby.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Mahon Pool, Maroubra Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking Mahon Pool, Maroubra.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Mahon Pool, Maroubra Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking Mahon Pool, Maroubra.
Further north in Bronte is an ocean-fed lap pool to experience top saltwater swimming. While around the corner Coogee offers Giles Baths at the northern headland and on the southern headland you can take in 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean at Wylies Baths. Henry Alexander Wylie, a champion long distance and underwater swimmer, established Wylie's Baths in 1907. The construction of the Baths coincided with an emerging interest in seaside baths in Sydney at the turn of the century.
Forget indoor chlorine pools, take your laps harbourside in one of the beautiful saltwater outdoor pools. Set on the shores of Woolloomooloo Bay near the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Andrew Boy Charlton (ABC) Pool offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and provides a tranquil environment for swimming, relaxation and socialising. The outdoor salt-water pool is heated and has eight lanes.
Wylie's Baths, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Wylie's Baths, Coogee.
Wylie's Baths, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Wylie's Baths, Coogee.
Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
People swimming laps at Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool in Sydney.
Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
People swimming laps at Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool in Sydney.
Maccallum Pool, tucked into the western edge of Cremorne Point, blends heritage charm with unbeatable harbour views. Originally a rock pool carved out by locals, it was transformed in the 1920s into a timber-decked saltwater haven. Restored in the mid-80s to honour its original style, it remains one of Sydney’s most scenic and character-rich swim spots.
Not forgetting the iconic Bondi Icebergs Pool which sits on the southern end of Bondi Beach and is open to the public for a low fee of $10. Currently closed for redevelopment, North Sydney Olympic Pool is set to reopen in 2026 boasting a 50-metre heated outdoor pool, gymnasium, sauna and spa.
Maccallum Seawater Pool, Cremorne Point Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over Maccallum Seawater Pool at Cremorne Point with view of Sydney harbour.
Maccallum Seawater Pool, Cremorne Point Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over Maccallum Seawater Pool at Cremorne Point with view of Sydney harbour.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach Credit: Destination NSW
People enjoying a morning swim at Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach Credit: Destination NSW
People enjoying a morning swim at Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach.
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Rose Bay Dog Beach, Rose BayCredit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying a day at the beach with his dog at Rose Bay Dog Beach in Rose Bay.
Cronulla beaches
Just a short 45-minute drive from Sydney’s CBD, Cronulla offers more than just its iconic surf beaches. A brief 10-minute stroll from the suburb’s vibrant café and retail precinct and from the train station, will lead you to two peaceful estuary beaches nestled along Gunnamatta Bay on the Port Hacking River. These hidden gems are ideal for families with young kids, thanks to their tranquil waters where the only ripples come from passing boats and the generous morning shade provided by surrounding trees.
Gunnamatta Park features a scenic jetty enclosing a netted tidal pool, perfect for safe swimming. The park also includes a playground, restrooms, and changing facilities. Just a few minutes up the road, Darook Park offers an even quieter escape. Its tree-lined shoreline provides natural shade right over the water, making it a great spot for sun-safe paddling and relaxed family outings.
Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla Credit: Destination NSW
The Cronulla to Bundeena ferry returning to the Tonkin Street Public Wharf, Cronulla.
Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla Credit: Destination NSW
The Cronulla to Bundeena ferry returning to the Tonkin Street Public Wharf, Cronulla.
Darook Park, Cronulla Credit: Mark Sariban
The sheltered beach at Darook Park, on Cronulla's Gunnamatta Bay in southern Sydney.
Darook Park, Cronulla Credit: Mark Sariban
The sheltered beach at Darook Park, on Cronulla's Gunnamatta Bay in southern Sydney.
Head south to Greenhills Beach in Cronulla for expansive ocean views and one of Sydney’s best dog-friendly beaches. This unique stretch is the only off-leash beach in the city that faces the open ocean, making it a favourite for energetic dogs and their owners. Spanning approximately 3km, Greenhills offers plenty of space for pups to run, splash in the surf, chase balls, and roll in the sand. Dogs are welcome off-leash every day before 10am and after 4pm during daylight saving time (before 10am and after 3pm outside daylight saving). Keep in mind that dogs are not permitted on the beach outside of these designated hours.
A little further out on the Kurnell peninsula, Silver Beach looks out onto stunning Botany Bay. It’s a beautiful location to take your pup to with lots of space for them to run around, stretch their legs and leap into the invigorating water. While they are allowed off-leash all day, this is only permitted between the third and fourth jetty found at the western end of the beach. This is located right in front of the Bonna Point Reserve car park making it easily accessible.
Kurnell Dog Beach, Kurnell Credit: Destination NSW
Woman spending a day at the beach with her dog along Kurnell Dog Beach in Kurnell.
Kurnell Dog Beach, Kurnell Credit: Destination NSW
Woman spending a day at the beach with her dog along Kurnell Dog Beach in Kurnell.
Harbour beaches
Sydney boasts a wide selection of family-friendly and dog-friendly harbour beaches, perfect for a full day of seaside fun. These sheltered spots offer calm waters, enclosed swimming areas, and lush parklands ideal for picnics and play.
Parsley Bay Reserve features a grassy expanse leading to a charming beach, with a scenic footbridge overhead that connects to a coastal bushwalking trail. Families will appreciate the on-site kiosk, playground, walking paths, and public amenities.
North of the Harbour Bridge, Balmoral Beach offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour National Park and is a top choice for quick beach getaways. Dining options abound, from relaxed cafés to upscale venues like Bathers Pavilion and The Boathouse.
Clontarf Reserve is a peaceful Middle Harbour retreat with calm, jewel-toned waters and plenty of sand for building castles. A shaded playground gives kids a break from the water, while Clonny’s on the Beach serves up food and coffee.
SOCIAL MEDIA 4:5 - Parsley Bay Reserve, Vaucluse Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking the Parsley Bay Bridge in Vaucluse, Sydney.
SOCIAL MEDIA 4:5 - Parsley Bay Reserve, Vaucluse Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking the Parsley Bay Bridge in Vaucluse, Sydney.
Balmoral Beach Credit: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW
Balmoral Beach with Bathers Pavilion in background, Mosman
Balmoral Beach Credit: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW
Balmoral Beach with Bathers Pavilion in background, Mosman
Dumaresq Reserve in Rose Bay offers a scenic mix of grassy parkland and tidal beach, making it a great spot for dog owners and families alike. With panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, it’s ideal for a relaxed outing. Dogs are welcome to roam off-leash before 8:30am and after 4:30pm, while on-leash walks are allowed throughout the rest of the day. The reserve also features benches for resting and open space for play, making it a versatile destination for both exercise and unwinding.
Rose Bay Dog Beach, Rose Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying a day at the beach with his dog at Rose Bay Dog Beach in Rose Bay.
Rose Bay Dog Beach, Rose Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying a day at the beach with his dog at Rose Bay Dog Beach in Rose Bay.
Other dog-friendly beaches
Lady Robinsons Beach in Kyeemagh, overlooking the sparkling waters of Botany Bay, features a popular off-leash dog exercise zone at its northern end. Located just 150 metres from the netted swimming enclosure, this 24/7 dog-friendly stretch is perfect for pups (and the odd horse) to run free, splash in the calm shallows, and enjoy the warm sand under their paws. The area is easily accessible, with nearby parking and a children’s playground, making it a great destination for both families and their furry companions.
Just a short stroll inland from iconic Manly Beach lies the peaceful Manly Lagoon which is a hidden gem for dog lovers. This spacious, dog-friendly area allows off-leash play 24/7, giving your furry friend plenty of room to roam, explore, and cool off in the calm, shallow waters. The surrounding green space is perfect for a relaxed outing, and with a nearby children’s playground and outdoor fitness equipment, it’s a great destination for the whole family to enjoy.
Manly Lagoon, Manly Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying a day with his dog at Manly Lagoon in Manly
Manly Lagoon, Manly Credit: Destination NSW
Man enjoying a day with his dog at Manly Lagoon in Manly