Sydney's a mecca for all things bustling but some days, bumping into your old school friends and neighbour at your local beach isn't what the doctor ordered. Instead, you're after a shoreline of the quiet and secluded kind.
Well, fire up the group chat and pile into your mate’s ute for a road-trip — here are the best day trips around Sydney for secluded beaches.
South West Arm Pool | Royal National Park
ETD: 1 hour, south
Of course, we’re putting the Royal National Park on this list. This place is a staple Sydney summer hit up but South West Arm Pool is an underrated gem around these parts. Picture rope swings and cliff jumping (if you dare). Sunbake on the rocks and bring the speakers.
Maitland Bay | Bouddi National Park
ETD: 1 hour and 30 minutes, north
This place is so secluded that you’ll have to walk 15-minutes to reach it. Located in the Bouddi National Park, Maitland Bay is your ticket out of those over-crowded beaches this summer season. Located right before Avoca and Copacabana, you’ll be kicking yourself for not finding this place sooner.
Ghosties Beach | Moonee
ETD: 1 hour and 50 minutes, north
We’re rocking up to this peaceful location for some well-deserved R&R. Hidden behind Moonee’s beach, you’ll find caves along the shallow crystal-clear waters. We won't lie, it's a bit of a trek to get this one but absolutely worth it for this secret reserve.
Little Marley Beach | Bundeena
ETD: 1 hour and 10 minutes, south
The Bundeena Drive to Marley walk (which is an 8km return walk) is riddled with waterfalls and rockpools so your only job here will be to take a dip at every opportunity you see fit.
Jingga Swimming Hole | Dharawal National Park
ETD: 1 hour and 45 minutes, south
Get to this warm natural pool by taking the Jingga walking track in Dharawal National Park. The entire walk is only around 2.5km return but it can get pretty steep at times ie. bring some solid sneakers to make your life easier. This swimming spot is apart of O'Hares Creek and there's a myriad of spots to plant your bags and towels to make the most of the warm weather.
Still got energy? Here are all the best hikes around Sydney.
Image credit: Katie Manning