Best beaches in Sydney’s North Shore
Wondering what to do on Sydney’s North Shore? More often than not, the answer can often be found near the water’s edge.
The Lower North Shore may not be as well known for its beaches as other parts of Sydney, but it quietly hosts some of the city’s most beautiful, family-friendly and underrated beaches.
So, here are four of the best beaches on Sydney’s North Shore that you need to discover.
Balmoral Beach
Best for: Families and kids, swimming sessions, café hang outs, picnic days
Area: Mosman
This iconic beach with its wide shoreline, elegant bridge leading to an island, calm waters and promenade is the perfect spot for almost any occasion.
Swimming and paddleboarding
Beach picnics and BBQs
Walking or jogging along the foreshore
Long lunches or chats over drinks at the many waterfront cafés and bars
If you’re looking for the best things to do with kids on the North Shore Sydney, Balmoral is the place for you. The water is calm and super safe for swimming, there’s plenty of shade, playgrounds, toilets (with baby change rooms), and grassy areas near the sand.
Sirius Cove Beach
Best for: Nature lovers, picnics, bush walks, relaxed family time
Area: Mosman
Sirius Cove is a pretty little beach, tucked away just outside Taronga Zoo. It has a small park with a playground, and has some awesome views of Sydney harbour and the city.
This hidden harbour beach is ideal for:
Bushwalks through the nearby tracks
Relaxed picnics on the grass
A spot for the kids to play on the playground and grass area
Chinamans Beach
Best for: Chilled swims, long hours with your favourite book, toddlers and kids, picnic days
Area: Mosman
Just around the corner from Balmoral, Chinamans Beach feels like a luxurious local secret, especially on weekdays. This beach is smaller and more sheltered, so it’s ideal for anyone searching for things to do in Mosman without the crowds.
Why do locals love Chinamans Beach?
Calm, shallow water (perfect for young kids)
Big picnic area right behind the beach with shade (Rosherville Reserve)
Awesome playground behind the beach
Peaceful, village-like atmosphere
Beautiful views of the bay
Great for paddle boarding
This beach is also a great option for parents looking for things to do on the North Shore that don’t involve long drives or busy surf beaches.
Chowder Bay
Best for: Kayaking or paddleboarding, long café hang outs, scenic walks, snorkeling and swimming
Area: Mosman / Bradleys Head
This beach / bay is great if you’re searching for fun things to do in North Sydney that aren’t just swimming. With picturesque restaurants and cafes by the water it’s the perfect spot for a cool drink or dinner at sunset.
Things to do at Chowder Bay:
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Waterfront dining and coffee
Walking the Headland Park track
Swimming in the protected area
