18 Hidden Beaches In Sydney That'll Make You Feel Like You're On Your Own Private Island

Escape the chaos of the big beaches and explore these secret little hideaways.

1. Collins Flat Beach, Manly

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If some serious "wow" factor is what you're looking for, head on over to Collins Flat Beach. Boasting stunning harbour views, this little nook of paradise feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Oh, and don't forget to check out the beach's own waterfall while you're there.

How to get there: At the end of Stuart Street, turn left and walk towards the pathway that leads into the bush. From there, it's a couple minutes of walking until you reach the beach.

2. Lady Bay Beach, Watsons Bay

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Between South Head and Camp Cove lies a tiny beach with spectacular views. Lady Bay also doubles as one of Sydney's dedicated nude beaches, so if that's how you like to swim, or if you forget your togs, then this is the place for you. After enjoying a refreshing dip, make sure to walk around the South Head Heritage Trail for more breathtaking views of the harbour.

How to get there: Park the car at Camp Cove carpark and follow the South Head Heritage Trail to the beach.

3. Resolute Beach, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

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Nestled in the mountainous cliffs and vast green bush of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is Resolute Beach, a hidden gem that you need to visit at least once in your life. It's a bit of walk to get there, but you'll be rewarded with emerald green waters, sunburnt sand, and virtually no one in sight.

How to get there: Once in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, head towards the Resolute Picnic Ground. Park the car and follow the signage to Resolute Beach via the Resolute Loop Trail.

4. Chinamans Beach, Mosman

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Judging from the secluded waters and sheltered conditions, you would never guess that Chinamans is a short 10-minute drive from the hectic crowds at Balmoral. This makes it the perfect destination to enjoy a lazy day out in the beach's private waters. Once you're done, why not head up to Rosherville Reserve for a delicious after-swim picnic.

How to get there: Street parking is available around Chinamans Beach and Rosherville Reserve.

5. Milk Beach, Vaucluse

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If you want to avoid the big crowds in Bondi, Coogee, or Manly, try Milk Beach for a lazy afternoon in the sun. Located at the base of Hermit Bay within the Sydney Harbour National Park, you'll be treated to clear waters and picturesque views. And while it may not be the most secret harbour beach, it's still worth discovering.

How to get there: Simply follow the Hermitage Foreshore Track from either Rose Bay or Watsons Bay. If you prefer to drive, there's parking around Vaucluse.

6. Bungan Beach, Mona Vale

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Surfers will absolutely love the rugged beauty over at Bungan Beach. Located on the Northern Beaches, you'll be treated to a stunning backdrop of bushland and cliffs while catching some reasonable breaks on the water. Just remember to stay in between the yellow flags as Bungan is known for rips.

How to get there: Walk down the steep driveway on Myolda Road through to the clubhouse and then onto the beach.

7. Queens Beach, Vaucluse

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On a secret stretch of sand in Vaucluse lies the most intimate and sublime views of Sydney Harbour. It's an incredibly beautiful spot for a dip, but you have to stay a little longer to watch the sunset over the city skyline. It's a view like no other.

How to get there: Leave the car at Little Queens Lane and follow the Hermitage Foreshore Walk until you arrive at Queens Beach.

8. Gordons Bay, Coogee

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In Sydney's eastern suburbs is a welcoming, private oasis called Gordons Bay. The best part about it? It's secluded, sheltered, and only accessible via the Coastal Walkway. Plus if you're looking for the perfect backdrop to all your Instagram photos, look no further than the bay's clear waters.

How to get there: Parking is available at either Coogee or Clovelly Beach. After that, walk along the Coastal Walkway until you reach Gordons Bay.

9. Congwong Beach, La Perouse

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You'll want to visit Congwong beach for two reasons. Firstly, it's shallow and perfect for snorkelling, and secondly, there's an ice-cream boat. Yup, on weekends during summer an ice cream boat often visits, delivering the perfect beach treat right to you.

How to get there: Congwong Beach is located close to the Anzac Parade entrance to the Botany Bay National Park.

10. Lady Martins Beach, Point Piper

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In Point Piper you'll find one of the most gorgeous, chilled-out beaches in Sydney. The best part about Lady Martins is its seclusion which makes it the perfect setting to enjoy a low-key afternoon in the sun.

How to get there: Entry is via a narrow lane off Wolseley Road that passes by the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club.

11. Wattamolla, Royal National Park

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Nestled within the Royal National Park is an oasis of natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. Here at Wattamolla you'll find not only a beach, but a picture-perfect lagoon to swim in. After your refreshing dip, enjoy a picnic under the shade of the palm trees followed by a walk along one of the beach tracks.

How to get there: Wattamolla is located in the eastern precinct of the Royal National Park. You'll want to head towards Wattamolla Road, but if you need more detailed directions click here.

12. Store Beach, Manly

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For the ultimate secluded getaway, look no further than Store Beach. Fringed by bushland, chances are you'll have this beautiful spot all to yourself. That's because the only way to get there is via water. So pack yourself a picnic, paddle over in the clear, shallow water, and relax on this beautiful stretch of beach.

How to get there: Hire a kayak from Manly Wharf and paddle towards North Head.

13. Parsley Bay, Vaucluse

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If you need a weekend getaway that's not too far from the city, look no further than Parsley Bay. Here you'll find a hidden paradise featuring a secluded beach, natural swimming enclosure, and a nature reserve that's just perfect for picnics. There's also The Parsley Bay Walk which will take you across the century-old footbridge and into the headlands towards a trickling waterfall.

How to get there: Access is available via The Crescent, Hopetoun Avenue, and Horler Avenue. Alternatively you can access the bridge from Fitzwilliam Road.

14. Kutti Beach, Vaucluse

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If you're up for a little more adventure, try and track down the even more hidden Kutti Beach. It's located down a teeny, tiny staircase that's easy to miss if you're not looking for it. But once you spot it and make your way down to this gorgeous beachscape, you'll be glad you made the extra effort.

How to get there: At the end of Wharf Road is a narrow staircase located beside Vaucluse Amateur Sailing Club. Follow it down and you'll land on a perfect stretch of golden sand called Kutti Beach.

15. Delwood Beach, Manly

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Situated within Manly's natural beauty is Delwood Beach. Here you'll find calm, lagoon-like waters that makes it a beautiful spot for an afternoon of swimming or snorkelling. Stay on a bit longer until the sun sets for a view you'll never forget.

How to get there: Take the scenic route by following the Fairlight Walk past the Manly Art Gallery and Manly Sea Life Sanctuary until you hit Delwood Beach.

16. Warriewood Beach, Warriewood

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Warriewood Beach is one of those hidden gems which only the locals are really aware of. It's secluded, peaceful, and you'll never have to fight for a spot on the sand. The reserve occupying Turrimetta Heads also offers excellent beach and ocean views if you're looking for that perfect Instagram shot.

How to get there: Near the top of the headlands is a steepish walking trail that'll take you right down to the beach.

17. Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay

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Murray Rose Pool (formerly known as Redleaf Pool) is a local goodie and a total must-do if you've never been. Besides the gorgeous views, there is a wraparound walkway, and floating platforms where you can lay back, enjoy the sun, and be soothed by the gentle rocking caused by the ripples in the water.

How to get there: There is limited street parking so your best bet is to either catch a ferry to Double Bay Wharf or a bus that stops along New South Head Road. Once there the pool is located near the Woollahra Council Building.

18. Maitland Bay Beach, Bouddi National Park

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Maitland Bay Beach is the perfect place to refresh yourself after going on a hike through Bouddi National Park. Stop to swim, look for shells, or simply dip your feet in the water – there's certainly more than enough space to go around! If you're feeling especially adventurous, head down to the bay's eastern side at low tide to see the remains of the PS Maitland which was wrecked in 1898. And although Maitland Bay is technically not in Sydney, it's only an hour-and-a-half away and gives you the perfect excuse to go on a road trip.

How to get there: After entering the national park, follow the Maitland Bay Track until you reach the beach.

UPDATE

Jan. 16, 2018, at 05:44 AM

This post has been updated to meet BuzzFeed's attribution standards.