We have some of the most spectacular beaches in Australia right on our doorstep. If you are looking to escape the crowds of our most popular beaches during summer, we have a few favourite little beaches that are not as well known!
Castle Rock Beach
This beautiful secluded spot can be found along the Manly-to-Spit walking track on Middle Harbour. This small beach is perfect for those wanting a quiet day and more relaxed beach experience. It can also be accessed from Ogilvy Rd, Clontarf.
Castle Rock beach is usually calm, and after a few days rain it even has its own little waterfall. There’s also some rocky areas for all those who love to do a little exploring. It’s a perfect little spot for a swim and a picnic.
Store Beach
This gorgeous beach is only accessible by water (boat or kayak), just inland from the Old Quarantine Station, which is now part of Sydney Harbour National Park. It’s so secluded it will feel like you’re a long way from the crowds!
Store Beach is also a fairy-penguin breeding ground, so access is prohibited from dusk when these beautiful creatures start appearing, if your lucky you may spot them before you leave.
So if you’re looking for a little adventure, hire a kayak from Manly Kayak Centre and take a day trip to explore Store Beach.
Reef Beach
A picturesque beach at Dobroyd Head near Manly, with scenic harbour views, Reef Beach brims with Aboriginal and historic significance in Sydney Harbour National Park
Reef Beach offers the chance to kick back in your own hometown, even if it’s only for an afternoon. This pretty spot, tucked away at Dobroyd Head, has incredible views across Sydney’s North Harbour to Manly.
Make it a pit stop while walking the famous Manly Scenic Walkway, or pack a picnic and spend the day. Pause at the bench on the nearby boardwalk and take in the beautiful views. At low tide, you might even be able to spot some Aboriginal carvings in the rocks
Dive in for a refreshing swim at this lovely spot – you’re bound to want to return. After exploring the beach take in the scenic view from nearby Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head.
To those in the know, however, Reef Beach was once a central congregating point for naturists and nudists.
The beach was proclaimed to be a legal nudist beach by the Honorable Neville Wran during his Premiership in the 1970s. Visitors from the era report that up to 400 people would cram onto the beach and around the foreshore.