9 of the Best Family Beaches in Sydney, Australia

Away from the inner west of Sydney and near the North Shore are some of the best family beaches in Sydney. This variety of kid-friendly beaches includes those for surfing and riding the waves. For each Sydney beach, we have noted the location and if there is a shark net. Here are the nine best family beaches in Sydney to visit between the summer months of December and February. 

Parsley Bay

Parsley Bay is one of the best family beaches in Sydney for families who want to enjoy snorkeling (tropical fish can be seen in the summer months) or swimming in calm waters. This beach isn’t as touristy as others, and the nearby fig trees provide plenty of shade spots. In addition, there is a playground nearby and a convenient cafe if you want to grab a quick bite or drink.

Location: Vaucluse, New South Wales

Playground: Yes

Shark Net: Yes

Palm Beach

Compared to Parsley Bay, Palm Beach is one giant beach—2.3km, in fact! Families can enjoy kayaking, surfing, and sailing on the water. Nearby are nature tours, a golf course, and the Palm Beach Market, which is open once a month. Unfortunately, this beach doesn’t have a playground, and there aren’t any shade areas until the evening hits. Palm Beach is best for families who aren’t looking for more than a beautiful place to play in the water.

Location: Palm Beach, New South Wales

Playground: No

Shark Net: No

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Shelly Beach

Are you interested in snorkeling or scuba diving? Shelly Beach, near Royal National Park, is perfect for families who want to try an activity in only 12 metres deep water. This water is also home to tons of marine life, so adults and children can enjoy catching glances at these beautiful creatures. There are plenty of shade trees and BBQs for enjoying meals at the picnic tables. However, if you would like to grab a bite instead, The Boathouse is nearby and offers cheeseburgers and fish and includes a kids’ menu. 

Location: Manly, New South Wales

Playground: No

Shark Net: No

Balmoral Beach

Balmoral Beach has many fun spaces for children, including rock pools, playgrounds, a parkland, and more. The bath area is an enclosed swimming area for babies and toddlers, making it one of the best family beaches in Sydney for little ones. There’s an enclosed playground close by when the family is ready to take a break. A couple of miles away is Sydney Harbour National Park, where families can enjoy picture-worthy views. 

Location: Mosman, New South Wales

Playground: Yes

Shark Net: Yes (in the baths area)

Manly Beach 

Manly Beach is one of the best family beaches in Sydney for surfing adventures. This beach includes 2km of smaller beaches. Surf lessons for the whole family can be scheduled with Manly Surf School. In addition, families can enjoy a rock pool, ocean pool, marine sanctuary, and more. The Manly Cove is a netted swimming area with calm waters. As for playgrounds, families can check out the Manly Lagoon Reserve Playground and North Steyne Beachfront Playground.

Location: Manly, New South Wales

Playground: Yes (small)

Shark Net: Yes

Bondi Beach

There aren’t any significant shade areas at Bondi Beach, but there is an adult’s rock pool in addition to a children’s pool that holds shallow water. While Bondi Beach is one of the best family beaches in Sydney to visit, keep in mind that there isn’t a shark net. As for playgrounds, there is a nice play area with a shade covering for when it is time to take a break from the water. The Glory Days cafe is an excellent spot for breakfast, lunch, or drinks when it’s time for a bite to eat.

Location: Bondi, New South Wales

Playground: Yes

Shark Net: No

Greenwich Baths

For a family-friendly beach that is exceptionally great for little ones who aren’t comfortable swimming in deeper water yet, Greenwich Baths offer the best space. The entire area is enclosed with a shark net, and water toys are available. If you are looking for an epic playground, you will only find a set of swings here. Parking is nearby if you plan to drive, or you can arrive by bus or ferry. This beach can get busy, so arriving early ahead of the crowds is recommended.

Location: Greenwich, New South Wales

Playground: Yes (small)

Shark Net: Yes

Clifton Gardens

Clifton Gardens is one of the best family beaches in Sydney because half of the beach is enclosed, and half of the beach is open. This makes it an excellent spot for families of various ages and water skills. There is also a jetty for fishing or for exploring. Some visitors like to jump off the jetty into the water below. For full accessibility, there is a wheelchair ramp that leads down into the enclosed water bath. Clifton Gardens also includes shade areas, picnic tables, and a playground. 

Location: Mosman, New South Wales

Playground: Yes 

Shark Net: Yes

Camp Cove Beach

Right next to the Sydney Harbour National Park is Camp Cove Beach. This Sydney beach is wheelchair accessible so that the whole family can enjoy a beautiful sunny day on the beach. Children can swim in the calm waters or snorkel for colorful marine life. Kayaking is also popular at Camp Cove Beach. When it is time to cool off, the children will love visiting the beach kiosk for tasty ice cream.

Location: Watsons Bay, New South Wales

Playground: No

Shark Net: No

Although Chinamans Beach, near Hyams Beach, is considered one of the best family beaches in Sydney, we chose to leave it off our list since it is currently closed for renovations. 

There are many family-friendly beaches in Sydney. You can find a great beach with calm waters for little kids, but most beaches also offer cafes, shark nets, and snorkeling opportunities. Picnic tables, BBQs, and shade areas are typical.

Is there a family beach in Sydney that should have made our list? Let us know below!