Bondi is one of the most iconic beaches in the world. Its one kilometre stretch of sand is a mecca for thousands of city folk, surfers and tourists alike who flock to the area for sun, sea and surf. But while Bondi may be Sydney’s most well known beach, it’s only one of the hundred beaches that dot Sydney’s snaking coastline. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the lesser known gems in the Eastern Suburbs.
Gordon’s Bay
We’re going to go out on a limb here and say it — there is no other beach in Sydney that feels quite as ‘Mediterranean’ as Gordon’s Bay. Cocooned between Coogee Beach and Clovelly Beach, this tranquil bay is the locals’ best-kept secret. The water is royal blue in some parts and aqua green in others, and the whole bay sparkles in the sun. Bring drinks and float on a summer afternoon for a very “Med” experience.
Kutti Beach
(Credit: www.alisalad.com)
We can guarantee that in any amount of time spent in Sydney, you would never stumble upon Kutti Beach. The harbour-facing beach is hidden among the residential streets of Vaucluse and only accessible via a narrow staircase. One of the only dog beaches in Sydney, Kutti Beach attracts local dog-owners and their furry friends who enjoy playing fetch along the sand. While neighbouring beaches Watsons Bay and Nielsen Park are larger and busier, Kutti is intimate and quiet.
Redleaf Beach
(Credit: www.thesmartlocal.com)
Redleaf Beach is located in exclusive Double Bay and is another hidden, harbour-facing beach. Murray Rose Pool (renamed from “Redleaf Pool” in 2012) is the enclosed, shallow swimming area of the beach. The stilted wooden walkway surrounding the pool is used by beach-goers for sun baking and strolling.
North Bondi
(Credit: www.mattlauder.com.au)
Bondi is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks and obviously doesn’t need any more publicity, but we didn’t think we could make this list without mentioning it. We’re mentioning North Bondi as it’s more off the beaten tourist track. The north headland area of Bondi, Ben Buckler, offers stunning cliff-top views. And if you’re not into the sandy mess that inevitably follows you home after beach-time, the Grassy Knoll in North Bondi is a slopping hill ideal for sand-free sun-baking.
Parsley Bay Reserve
(Credit: Sydneyforeveryone.com.au)
Parsley Bay Reserve, located in Vaucluse, can be distinguished by the white suspension bridge hanging overhead. The inlet of Sydney Harbour found at the end of Parsley Bay Rd. is shark-free thanks to a safety net installed in 1931. The shallow-water lagoon is surrounded by a beach and park. The area is frequented by picnicking families, adventurous snorkelers, and sun-loving sun-bakers.
Bronte Beach
(Credit: carlos386 via Flickr)
Given its proximity to Bondi, Bronte is often compared to the famous spot. But if we’re comparing, we’d probably describe Bronte as the young, shy cousin of Bondi. The beach is fringed with grassy park area used for picnics, BBQs, athletic sessions, and general outdoor activities. The highlight of Bronte, in our humble opinion, are the two rock pools found at the far right end of the beach. The natural rock pool is shallow enough for family splashing, while the man-made one is deeper and can be used for lap-swimming.
Milk Beach
(Credit: www.bikinisandbibs.com)
You’d almost expect the water to be opaque, white froth at Milk Beach, but it’s actually more of the clear variety. The water is in fact so clear that it glints in the sun, and beckons beach-goers to wade in for a refreshing dip. Milk Beach offers unparalleled views of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline from its sandy shores. Although technically the area is an alcohol-free zone, summer-time will often see party-goers drinking on the sand, and on the boats that dock near the shore.
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