Must-see Attractions in the Sutherland Shire

  • Family
    Kids

We know how much you love inspiration for things to do with the family, so we’ve done our homework and scoured the beautiful Sutherland Shire, for the best activities and events that the kids will love and that won’t break your budget.

Whether you’re a Shire local or a resident Sydneysider looking for a change in scenery (these family outings are definitely worth the journey!), take a closer look at our pick of the best things to do with the kids in this beautiful part of the world.

Must-see Attractions in the Sutherland Shire

1.  Dive Into Shelly Beach Ocean Bath

Shelly Beach Ocean Pool
Shelly Beach Ocean Bath is a must-do on your Sutherland Shire checklist!


Built by locals in the early 1900s, Shelly Beach Ocean Bath is now one of Sydney's most historic rock pools, and an iconic one to head to for a cheeky dip! Today, it's enjoyed by both young and old, who love taking a dip in the cool, calm waters.

Nearby there is a large grassed area, kiosk, barbeques and a fenced playground (with a liberty swing for children with a disability). 

2. Hop on the Cronulla Ferry to Bundeena

Cronulla Ferry
All aboard! Hop on the ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena for an authentic Shire experience.


Travel coast to coast on the Cronulla Ferry to Bundeena—the perfect way to show the family a new perspective on the Shire!

Board the Curranulla, the Heritage-listed hourly ferry service and the oldest commuter ferry in Australia, across the water to Bundeena, a quaint coastal village in the Royal National Park and the gateway to beautiful pristine beaches, endless bushwalks and indigenous sites to explore.

One way fares - adult: $7.40; Child: $3.70; Family (2 adults up to 4 children): $24 (please note opal cards are not accepted). Take a picnic or treat yourself to lunch at one of the local cafés in the village!

3. Walk or Scooter The Cronulla Esplanade

The Cronulla Esplanade
Make sure you take a stroll along the Shire's answer to the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk!


The Cronulla Beach Walk follows more than four kilometres of the Shire’s coastline passing stunning beaches, child-friendly rock pools, parks, playgrounds and cafes. It's a favourite amongst locals and the footpath is perfect for strollers and ride-ons (no bikes) and takes in gorgeous coastal views.

There are several entry points, but to do the whole walk from end to end, start at Wanda Surf Club and follow the path south to North Cronulla. Grab a coffee while the kids play in the park before heading off to South Cronulla Beach for a swim or rock adventure. Oak Park beach, playground and rock pool are also on the Cronulla Esplanade and make an idyllic pit stop.

4. Go Whale Watching at Cape Solander

Cape Solander
The perfect spot to see some migrating humpback whales, Cape Solander offers stunning ocean vistas! 


If you’re keen to go whale watching, one of Sydney’s best spots is Cape Solander lookout point, located in the Kurnell section of Kamay Botany Bay National Park.

Here you’ll have a great chance of spotting migrating humpback whales swimming as close as 200m to the coast. June and July are the best months. You’ll find a viewing platform here alongside lots of useful information about whales. From there. you can also continue on a coastal walk through the park, and take in the perfect vista and perhaps a spot of birdwatching. 

Park entry fees of $8 per vehicle per day apply.

5. Indulge in Some Boutique Shopping

Hutwoods Boutique Shopping in the Sutherland Shire
We dare you to walk past Hutwoods without being tempted inside by the beautiful, fragrant aroma!


The perfect way to while away some time with, let's face it, slightly older kids in the Sutherland Shire is to indulge in a spot of boutique shopping.

There are plenty of gorgeous shops to check out in the area, and none more so than the beautiful candle connoisseurs at Hutwoods on 3/91 Parraweena Rd, Caringbah. Hutwoods make all of their products in Sydney and use a 100% natural soy wax blend in all of their candles with eco-friendly wood wicks. Alongside candles, you can expect to find reed diffusers, solid perfumes, homewares and bath and body products at Hutwoods—so happy shopping!

We also love Maiden Avenue in Jannali for women's clothing, gifts and beauty, as well as My Little Dream Co. for the most adorable childrenswear!

6. Ride a Tram at Sydney Tramway Museum

Sydney Tramway Museum
Transport lovers—this one's for you!


Take a step back in at the Sydney Tramway Museum.

Running for over 50 years, this hands-on attraction charts the 80-year history of Sydney’s Trams, plus has a unique selection of other trams from around the globe. Best of all, the whole family will love jumping on board a working tram and whizzing along four kilometres of track towards The Royal National Park and Sutherland.

Open Sundays only. Adults $20, Children $10, Under 5s FREE, Family$50 (2 adults and 1 child. Additional children in the family are free). All tickets include unlimited rides and admission into the display hall.

Location: 2 Pitt St, Loftus

7. Ice Cream, Ice Cream, Ice Cream!

Sutherland Shire ice cream
Because when was ice cream EVER a bad idea?!


What could be better than spending a day out in the Sutherland Shire with a delicious ice cream in hand? There are loads of incredible ice cream shops in the Shire to make your day out that much sweeter!

Design your own creation at the original Cold Rock Ice Creamery Cronulla along Cronulla Street where you can choose from an enormous range of ice creams, gelato and sorbets, mix in your choice of lollies, chocolates, fruits and nuts then let them smash it up for you! We’re up for the vanilla ice cream with smashed strawberries and fudge.

For those with a penchant for silky-smooth gelatos, stop in at Gelatissio Cronulla also along Cronulla Street for a serve of the good stuff. For ice cream and other sweet snacks, head to Gerrale St and stop in at the Ice Creamery & Espresso Bar

8. Paddle the Woronora River

Woronora River
A beautiful spot to try something new, the Woronora River is a great place to try your hand at kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddleboarding.


The Woronora River cuts through the Dharawal State Conservation Area and snakes along for 36 kilometres before reaching the Georges River. It’s incredibly picturesque and the perfect place to hire a kayak or canoe and paddle, taking in the beautiful views, abundant wildlife and peacefulness.

The Boatshed at Woronora is situated on Forbes Creek and offers a selection of kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards for hire. They also have a superb café for a post-paddle refreshment – the coffee and milkshakes come highly recommended. Open Tuesday to Sunday 8 am - 5 pm.

Location: 131 Prince Edward Park Rd, Woronora

9. Discover Audley in The Royal National Park

Audley Royal National Park
Immerse the family in nature at the beautiful Audley in the Royal National Park.


If you haven’t yet discovered Audley, in the heart of the Royal National Park, then it’s time to put it on your to-do list.

It is stunning with wide-open spaces ideal for gathering family and friends for a day amid nature. Take a walk on one of the many tracks, rated from easy to more challenging, hire a rowing boat or aqua bike from Audley Boatshed and paddle about on the Weir or simply relax and feast on a picnic together.

The visitor centre is worth popping into to get the most out of your day.

Location: 150 Audley Rd, Audley

10. Get Arty at Hazelhurst Regional Art Gallery & Arts Centre

Hazelhurst Regional Gallery
Offering a great day out for kids, the Hazelhurst Regional Gallery is well worth a visit!


Close to Gymea train station and set amid extensive landscaped gardens, Hazelhurst Regional Gallery in the Sutherland Arts Centre is a spectacular arts complex offering exhibitions, art courses and workshops, artist talks and special art events.

The Gallery runs lots of great Children's Art Classes for budding artists and Family Programs for kids 18 months to 6 years, and you can also book a Guided Tour. There’s also a very nice cafe here, just next to the garden where the kids can run and play, and a shop full of creative finds. Plus admission is free!

Location: 782 Kingsway, Gymea

11. Family Fun at Como Pleasure Grounds

Como Pleasure Grounds
The Como Pleasure grounds are a great place to while away an afternoon with family.


The recently renovated Como Pleasure Grounds is a popular multi-use recreational park perfect for families.

Perched on the banks of the Georges River, the beautiful green space is surrounded by lush bushland and enveloped by stunning panoramic views. There is a playground, picnic tables and BBQs, a bike and scooter track and a walking loop path.

Fuel up at the Blackfish Café - they have excellent coffee and a fantastic kids menu - and cool off at the nearby Como Swimming Complex  - a fabulous, free seasonal aquatic centre with a 20m swimming pool.  

Location: 2A Cremona Rd, Como

More Ideas for a Day Out in Sydney

13 Unusual Sydney Attractions
Sydney's Best Cafes by the Water
The Best Kids' High Teas in Sydney


Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!

 

Reviews


Marie Ashworth

Aug 29 2016

Thanks Phil! We've amended the article.


Marie Ashworth

Aug 29 2016

Thanks Rebecca, we've amended the article!


Rebecca Eden

Aug 25 2016

The Bundeena RSL is still mentioned in this. It has not been rebuilt as yet 25/8/2016


Phil.

Aug 25 2016

The esplanade at cronulla is no bikes