Top Beaches & Rock Pools For Kids In Sydney

  • Kids
    Family

By: Phoebe Ackland, ellaslist

Not all beaches are created equal: some go that extra mile for families, be it shady spots to have a leisurely picnic, a playground to build a sweat up at before a cool dip, netted swimming areas for extra ocean safety, or easily-accessible rock pools that toddlers won't be out of their depth in. 

Have a classic summer's day with a trip to one of these great child-friendly beaches or wondrous rock pools. You'll never know what critters you'll meet!

1. Clovelly Beach

Clovelly has it all for families- a playground at the back, a stretch of sand mostly occupied by other families, a 25-metre saltwater pool, calm, flat water at the shore, BBQ's and picnic shelters and a great kiosk, what box hasn't been ticked? It's a perfect destination for a paddle or a spot of snorkelling- you might even spot the resident Clovelly groper! 

via Wikipedia

2. Bogey Hole, Bronte

Only revealing itself during low-tide, this small and shallow rock pool makes it easy to keep an eye on your kids whilst they explore all the natural wonders swimming, crawling and sliding about. Why not top off the day with lunch at Bogey Hole Cafe?

via My Star Anise 

3. Nielsen Park, Vaucluse

Nielsen Park aka Shark Beach is a glorious harbour beach that families can spend the whole day at. The waters are calm and flat, the swimming area is net-protected, there are large picnic areas, there's a reserve with shady fig trees, and great cafes. Kick a ball around the grass, take a scenic stroll along the foreshore, have a paddle, and remember to snap some totally Insty-worthy shots.

via NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

4. Freshwater Rock Pool, Freshwater

Warringah council maintains 6 rock pools in the area, and this one is situated at the northern end of Freshwater Beach. It’s a 50m lap pool, perfect for kids who want a proper swim without the size constraints of many rock pools and without the waves and traffic of the ocean. Similar to (but not to be confused with) Newcastle’s Bogey Hole, it has the structure and security of a man-made pool but with all the gorgeous scenery and natural elements of the beach.

via Ocean Pool NSW

5. Shelly Beach, Cronulla

Cronulla’s Shelly Park and Beach is a short walk from the much busier Cronulla beach, so come here with your kids if you want to avoid the crowds. There is a large, shady reserve out the back of the beach with an awesome, big fenced playground that includes a liberty swing, meaning your BBQ and family picnic day is completely sorted. At the south end, there’s an ocean pool perfect for toddlers, plenty of space and ramps for prams, and a cafe and restaurant close by. Ticks all the boxes!

via sydney.com

6. Dee Why Rock Pool, Dee Why

Dee Why rock pool is perfectly located right near the promenade along the beach. With natural sandstone and concrete walls, this 50-metre pool has a special toddler area. It’s well maintained with plenty of shallow water for splashing around. There are toilets and showers close by.

via P Base

 

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