Sydney is widely known for its stunning beaches; it offers something for everyone, whether you’re a surfer, a sunbather, or simply love being in the vibrant beach atmosphere. These breathtaking coastal destinations are a major draw for people visiting Australia. There are so many beaches in Sydney that even if you’ve lived here for years, you may not have the chance to visit them all, including the enchanting Eastern Suburbs beaches.
The Eastern Suburbs feel like a completely different world, even if it is just a short distance from Sydney’s CBD. This vibrant area is home to Australia’s renowned beach, stunning coastal walks, and hidden harbour beaches loved by locals. Moreover, it serves as a culinary hotspot, that offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to satisfy every craving.
Join us as we unveil the hidden gems for your next Sydney beach getaway. Read on to discover the best beaches to explore next time you need a beach escape in Sydney.
Table of Contents
Here are 8 Best Eastern Suburbs Beaches in Sydney
1. Bondi Beach
Experience the best of Sydney’s renowned Bondi, where you’ll find a shimmering blue ocean and a relaxed beach lifestyle. While the beach is very popular, you can also enjoy outdoor cafes and trendy restaurants catering to lively crowds, offering brunch, lunch, and dinner. It also offers quality surf, vibrant farmer’s markets, and an awe-inspiring clifftop walk, seamlessly blending the charm of seaside living with urban allure.
How to Get from Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach
It’s close to the CBD, offering a unique blend of urban living and breathtaking beach scenery. It’s just a short 30-minute public transport ride from Town Hall station in the city centre, making it easily accessible for all. You can take a train to Bondi Junction and then transfer to a bus or opt for a bus that travels directly from the CBD to the beach.
Things to Do at Bondi Beach
‣ Bondi Pavilion (Newly Renovated)
‣ Bondi Icebergs (Swimming Pool)
‣ Bondi Rescue (TV Show Filmed in the Summer)
‣ Great Skate Park with a Huge Bowl
‣ Surf lessons and Board Hire
‣ Swimming
‣ Coastal Walk
∙ Bondi To Bronte
∙ Bondi To Coogee
‣ Trike Tour
‣ Bondi Farmers Market (Sat & Sun)
∙ Saturday: Organic Produce
∙ Sunday: Unique Fashion Pieces and Exquisite Jewellery
2. Tamarama Beach
Tamarama Beach, popularly known as “Glamarama,” is a stunning coastal beach about 1 kilometre from Bondi and a short distance north of Bronte. It is nestled between two prominent headlands along the Bondi to Coogee Walk.
For surfers, it’s a paradise due to its exceptional surfing conditions. However, it is important to exercise extra caution due to its prone to strong currents. Tamarama Beach offers more than just a pretty view, though. It provides a wide range of amenities, such as parklands, playgrounds, barbecue areas, various facilities, and a café.
How to Get to Tamarama Beach
It would be best to use public transportation. To get to Tamarama Beach from the Sydney CBD, you can take the 380 or 381 bus. From Bondi Beach, you can take the 362 bus directly. If you’re driving, finding a parking spot in the backstreets can be challenging, so it’s usually better to park somewhere else and walk to the beach.
Things to Do at Tamarama Beach
‣ Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
‣ Amazing Surfers Beach
‣ Swimming
‣ Cafe on the Beach
‣ BBQ (Free Parking)
‣ Marks Park (Pet Friendly)
3. Bronte Beach
Bronte is a little over a kilometre south of Bondi and can be easily reached by walking. The beach faces eastward and can catch waves from any direction. The large headlands to the north and south and clusters of underwater rocks create challenging conditions at Bronte Beach, particularly for swimmers. The south headland forms the premium wave at Bronte but breaks over rocks. As a result, it is only suitable for experienced surfers confident in their abilities. Furthermore, if you plan to visit Bronte Beach, take precautions and stay safe while enjoying the stunning scenery.
How to Get to Bronte Beach
To get to Bronte, there are various transportation options available. Firstly, if you prefer to take the bus, you can choose the 440 bus departing from the Sydney CBD, the 378 bus from Bondi Junction, or the 362 bus directly from Bondi Beach. On the other hand, if you decide to drive, you have two routes to consider. You can enter via MacPherson Street or follow Bronte Road and look for the signs.
Things to Do at Bronte Beach
‣ Bronte Baths
‣ Bronte Park
‣ Surfing
‣ Miniature Train
‣ Waverley Cemetery ‣ Located along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
‣ Cafes by the Beach
‣ Free Public BBQ Area
‣ Waterfall (located in Bronte Gully
about 5 minutes walk from the beach)
4. Clovelly Beach
If you’re wondering if it’s safe to swim at Clovelly Beach, the answer is definitely YES! It’s a great spot to take your kids for a fun day at the beach. Clovelly Beach is known for its clean sand, calm waters, and kid-friendly swimming. Plus, there are lots of other activities to enjoy like tidal rockpools, parklands, fishing, snorkelling, and diving. All of this is packed into a small 60-meter gap in the coastline. So, if you’re looking for a safe and enjoyable beach experience, Clovelly Beach is worth checking out!
How to Get to Clovelly Beach
You have three options to get from Sydney CBD to Coogee Beach: bus, taxi, or car. Taking the 373, 374, or 376 bus from Sydney CBD is a good choice if you prefer public transportation. Taxis offer the quickest option, taking around 10 minutes and costing approximately $33 – $41. Driving your car is the most cost-effective method, with a short distance of 9.2 km between the two locations.
Things to Do at Clovelly Beach
‣ Diving
‣ New Kids Playground
‣ Swimming
‣ Kayaking
‣ Standup Paddleboarding
‣ Snorkelling
‣ Fishing
‣ BBQ’s
‣ Picnic
‣ Coastal Walk
5. Coogee Beach
There are several reasons why people should visit Coogee Beach in Sydney. Firstly, the beach is beautiful and peaceful, making it an ideal relaxing spot. The picturesque surroundings, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand provide visitors with a serene and calming ambiance.
Secondly, Coogee Beach is suitable for swimming and sunbathing, making it perfect for beach-goers of all ages. Several activities are also available on the beach, including Canoeing/Kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
Thirdly, the beach is family-friendly and has plenty of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. A large park also has BBQ facilities, picnic tables, and playgrounds.
Lastly, it offers a range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, providing visitors with ample dining options. Visitors can enjoy delicious seafood while overlooking the stunning ocean views.
It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a calm and tranquil getaway within the city limits.
How to Get to Coogee Beach
Getting to Coogee is a breeze, and we suggest using public transportation, as buses conveniently stop right by Coogee Beach. It takes around 30 minutes to reach Coogee from Surry Hills in the city centre and the busy Central Station transportation hub. The journey is under an hour if you’re coming from Newtown in the inner West.
Things to Do at Coogee Beach
‣ Coastal Walk (Bondi to Coogee)
‣ Birdwatching
‣ Canoeing/Kayaking
‣ Fishing
‣ Swimming ‣ Watch Street Performance at Night (Weekends)
‣ Free Public BBQ Area (Free)
‣ Ample choice for food and drink with an array of cafes, restaurants, and bars
‣ Several ocean pools to choose from (there are 4 nearby)
6. Maroubra Beach
Maroubra Beach is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most popular and sought-after surfing spots. Its name means ‘like thunder’ in Aboriginal, describing the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. The beach is surrounded by nature, ideal for picnics and walks.
One of the best things about Maroubra Beach is the outdoor activities available. There is a free gym for fitness enthusiasts, a skate park for skateboarders, and a playground for kids. Additionally, free BBQs, showers, and bathrooms are conveniently located throughout the beach area, making it a comfortable and safe place to spend the day.
If you’re feeling peckish, a cafe/kiosk is situated right in the middle of the beach, and If you’re looking for more dining options, you can find plenty of restaurants and cafes across the street on Marine Parade. The beach offers ample parking, including a large lot next to the beach, making it hassle-free to enjoy the sun and surf.
How to Get to Maroubra Beach
If you plan to head to Maroubra Beach from Sydney, here are your travel options. You could consider taking a bus, hailing a taxi, or driving your car. If you have some spare time and don’t mind waiting, the 392 bus that leaves from Sydney CBD is a decent option.
However, if you’re in a rush to get to the beach, taking a taxi will be your best bet, even though it might cost you around $45 to $50. But, if you’re looking for a more economical way to get there, driving your car would be the way to go. The distance between Sydney and Clovelly Beach is just 11.9 km, and driving should take only 11 minutes. Plus, there are plenty of free parking spots available at the beach.
Things to Do at Maroubra Beach
‣ Surfing (Surf Lesson Available)
‣ Mahon Pool
‣ Picnic (Arthur Byrne Reserve)
‣ Skate Park
‣ Playground
‣ Malabar Headland National Park to the south of Maroubra offers a spectacular headland walk.
‣ If you’re up for some exercise, take a two-hour stroll along the breathtaking coastline from the glamorous Bondi Beach
7. Malabar Beach
Located in the Southern part of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Maroubra is about 30 minutes drive from Sydney’s CBD, Malabar boasts a stunning oceanfront setting. While it may not be as well-known as Bondi, Malabar Beach has plenty to offer visitors, including crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. With two shipwrecks to explore, there’s no shortage of adventure here.
Despite its smaller size, Malabar Beach is just as spectacular as its more famous counterparts and offers a more peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. In addition to its scenic shoreline, the beach also features a rock swimming pool that’s great for both laps and taking sunset selfies, while the protected bay is the perfect spot for families to enjoy a day by the water.
How to Get to Malabar Beach
You have three transportation options to reach Malabar Beach: bus, taxi, or car. You can opt for the 394X bus departing from Sydney CBD for public transportation. A taxi ride costs approximately $50-$61 for a faster journey. However, driving your car is the most convenient choice if you’re looking to save money. The distance between Sydney and Malabar Beach is only 13.5 km, taking roughly 30 minutes by car. Moreover, free parking is available at the beach, making it an easy and cost-effective way to get to Malabar.
Things to Do at Malabar Beach
‣ Swim
‣ Snorkelling or Scuba Diving
∙Shipwrecked MV Malabar
∙ Or Goolgwai.
‣ Paddle Board
‣ Cromwell Park
∙ Barbecue / Picnic
‣ Boat Ramp
8. Little Bay Beach
Little Bay is a secluded beach nestled between granite cliffs, just south of the headland near Trial Bay Gaol in Arakoon National Park. Bring your fishing gear for some fun in the sun. If you need a break, head to the Little Bay picnic area and enjoy a leisurely lunch under the shade of the she-oaks while looking at the ocean.
For those who want to get some exercise, the Monument Hill walking track is nearby. Nature enthusiasts will love the nearby heathland, a birdwatcher’s paradise. You can spot fantails, wrens, and honeyeaters while hawks, falcons, and ospreys soar above the cliffs and beaches.
Once you’ve had your fill of fresh air and exercise, head to the Trial Bay Kiosk Restaurant for a delicious coffee and cake. They offer an extensive wine list and a menu full of local produce, so you may even want to return for dinner.
How to Get to Little Bay Beach
If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel from Little Bay to Sydney CBD, taking the 392X or 394X bus is your best bet. This option will only cost you around $3-4. However, if you’re willing to spend more for a quicker trip, you could take a taxi, which typically costs between $60-$80. Alternatively, you could bring your car and make the 17.1km drive in just 30 minutes. Remember, though, that parking in Little Bay can be a bit challenging.
Things to Do at Little Bay Beach
‣ Birdwatching
‣ Fishing
‣ Snorkelling
‣ Little Bay Rock Pool
‣ Playground (Coast Hospital Memorial Park)
Each beach in the Eastern Suburbs has its unique charm, so it is worth checking them all out. The stunning beauty of these beaches is something that everyone should experience at least once. If you have a property in these areas and you are considering Short Term Rentals reach out today and we can manage the property and discover your property potential.
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