Written by Emma from Noserider Surf Club
Sydney’s coastline offers a variety of beaches, each with its unique landscapes and fun activities for families. In this article, we’ll dive into the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney and share practical tips to make your beach day as enjoyable and safe as possible.
Must Visit Family Beaches in Sydney
Sea, sand, and sun make the perfect setup for family fun during holidays, weekends, and sometimes even during the week. Here are the top family-friendly beaches on Sydney’s coastline that you don’t want to miss!
Bondi Beach: Sandcastle Building and Family Strolls
One of Sydney’s most iconic beaches is, hands down, Bondi Beach. It is known for its golden sand and vibrant atmosphere, offering the perfect setup for some fun in the sun for the whole fam. With plenty of shaded areas, playgrounds, and changing facilities, it’s ideal for building sandcastles and enjoying beach games. Plus, with skilled lifeguards on duty, Bondi is a safe and enjoyable option for even the youngest family members.
Coogee Beach: Rock Pool Exploration and Picnics
An all-time family favorite, Coogee Beach, is known for its calm waters and relaxed vibes, making it the ultimate family beach day spot. Lined with cafes and playgrounds, Coogee is a great spot to take a stroll on the beach promenade or enjoy a picnic lunch with the kids. Exploring the southern end rock pools, home to various marine creatures, is a hit with the kids.
Balmoral Beach: Calm Water Swimming and Shaded Picnics
Balmoral Beach, located in the upscale suburb of Mosman, offers a peaceful and family-friendly vibe. Its calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for swimming with younger kids. With shaded picnic areas and nearby cafes, Balmoral Beach is perfect for a full day of sun-soaked relaxation.
For those looking to catch waves, this is also an excellent spot for surfing lessons or simply sunbathing in your surf bikini while watching the surfers ride the waves nearby.
Manly Beach: Beach Games and Scenic Ferry Rides
Manly Beach is a scenic ferry ride away from Circular Quay, adding an extra layer of adventure for the kids. With numerous dining options and a designated swimming area, it’s perfect for a day of family fun. The wide beach area is perfect for beach games such as frisbee or paddleball, and if the heat gets too much, head over to the Corso to cool off with an ice cream.
Clovelly Beach: Snorkeling and Playground Fun
The narrow beach and calm waters make Clovelly Beach an ideal spot to swim with the kids. Besides offering safe swimming conditions, the calm waters make Clovelly Beach an excellent spot for snorkeling. Grab some goggles and explore the underwater marine life with your kids or enjoy a picnic on the surrounding parkland.
Essential Safety Tips for a Stress-Free Beach Day with Kids
Every parent knows how challenging beach days with the whole fam can be. Here are our best tips for a fun and stress-free day with the kiddos!
Stay Safe in the Sun and Sea: Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, hats, and regularly seek shade to avoid sunburns. For safe swimming with the kids, make sure there is a lifeguard on duty, swim between flags, use floaties, and have an adult in the water with the smaller kids.
Hydrate & Snack Smart: Pack nutritious snacks or pick a cafe beforehand to get snacks and avoid any hangry outbursts. Plenty of water and juices ensure that the whole family stays hydrated.
Beach Bag Checklist: Make a packing checklist on your phone and tick things off once you have packed them into your beach bag. Pro tip: you can make shared lists for bigger families to delegate who brings what!
Smooth Beach Access: Try to avoid visiting the beaches at peak times and make sure you know the local parking regulations and options, or alternatively, use public transport.
