08 October, 2018
If
there’s one thing Australia is known for, it’s miles and
miles of pristine beaches. But instead of grabbing your towel and
heading for Bondi like everybody else, make like a local at one of
these sandy spots (and try not to look too smug about it).
Sydney
A 10-minute hike along the cliffs of Sydney harbour from
Clontarf Reserve will see you arrive at this little-known beach.
Named for the giant rock perched on the sand, its flat, clear
waters and trickling waterfall, it’s surprising that this one has
stayed a secret.
Sydney
Only accessible by boat, or a lengthy swim from Castle Rock
Beach, Store Beach’s stretch of sand could rival that of any
Mediterranean island. Keep an eye out for the ice cream boat
that roams the harbour – flag it down for an after-lunch
pick-me-up.
Sydney
If you’re after
surf rather snorkelling, you’ll find it at Bungan Beach, backed
by scrub and known only to the residents atop the surrounding
cliffs. Just be sure to swim between the flags as rips are not
uncommon.
Sydney
Extremely difficult to find, the secluded Kutti Beach is almost
like having your own private beach, backed by a harbourside
mansion. The mansion may belong to someone else but that golden
sand is all yours.
Sydney
Emerald-green waters, sun-scorched sand and virtually no one in
sight – the catch? It’s a 45-minute hike through Ku-ring-gai Chase
National Park to get there – but we promise, it’s more than worth
it.
Sydney
A remote enclave created by tumbling boulders on either side,
Gordon’s Bay is a great spot for snorkelling as well as sunbathing
– follow the underwater nature trail for a series of steel plaques
with information about the sealife.
Sydney
Ignore the name (the Australians can be an irreverent lot)
because Chinaman’s Beach is everything you want in a swimming spot:
blindingly white sand, aqua water and rock pools for nostalgic crab
hunting.
Australia
If it weren’t for the occasional passing ferry, swimmers at
Collins Beach could easily be fooled into thinking they were in the
middle of nowhere. A waterfall and the occasional fairy penguin
complete the experience, though you’ll only see them at certain
times of year.
Australia
This hidden beach will have you lying on the sand while enjoying
uninterrupted views of the city, Harbour Bridge and all. Befriend
locals and they might even let you in on the next summer beach
party – designer bikinis only.
