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Sydney is blessed with more months of great weather than bad, which is why we Sydneysiders spend so much time at the beach. And with the 2025-2026 beach season shaping up to be a hot one, there's no better time to soak up the sun than with a trip to one of our favourite kid-friendly beaches and swim spots!

Sydney beaches are pretty spectacular and cater to all types of beach-goers. From calm harbour inlets to golden stretches with killer waves, our beach-going culture is practically a rite of passage for many families. Whether you're planning some sandcastle sessions, rock pool exploring, or a refreshing dip on a hot day, we've got the perfect beach to cater to your needs. 

As the temperatures rise and the school holidays roll in, it's the ideal time to discover (or rediscover) the most kid-friendly beaches Sydney has to offer. Enjoy!

28 Kid-friendly Beaches in Sydney (2025-2026 Update)

Eastern Suburbs

1. Bondi Beach

First up is, of course, Bondi Beach. This iconic hotspot is a favourite for families (and LOTS of them) for good reason.

Although Bondi is almost always packed, and traffic and parking can be tricky, it really does have it all for families! There are a plethora of excellent eateries on the beach's doorstep, a fully fenced playground, a skate park for action lovers, the perfect tanning area at the Grassy Knoll, a rock pool for little ones to splash, and pretty calm waters at the North end... need we say more?

Location: Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach

2. Parsley Bay Reserve, Vaucluse

Shhh… Parsley Bay Reserve is one of the best (secret) kid-friendly beaches in Sydney. In fact, we rank it as the most idyllic park-playground-beach combos in the East. It's a park, a beach, a bushland walk, and a great kids' playground all in one! 

Located a bit off the beaten track and with limited parking at the reserve itself, keeps this glorious space clear of the masses. There are public toilets with showers and a kiosk for drinks, coffee, sandwiches, and snacks.

Location: Parsley Rd, Vaucluse

RELATED:
Check Out These Secret Beaches in Sydney

3. Bronte Beach

Bronte Beach can get some killer surf, but for families with littlies, we recommend heading to Bogey Hole, a shallow enclosed natural pool on the south side of the beach.

This spot is excellent for kids, with its smooth, sloping sand, gentle lapping waves, and plenty of rock pools nearby to poke about. The seawater swimming pool is also at this end, and you'll also find free showers, toilets, and changing facilities.

Beware, there is no shade on the beach, so early mornings and late afternoons are best or bring a sun tent. For snacks, you'll find the kiosk on the north end of the beach and plentiful cafes. Be warned, they can get jam-packed at weekends, which can be difficult with a stroller. Not all cafes have high chairs, but it pays to ask!

Location: Off Bronte Marine Drive, Bronte

4. Congwong Beach

If you're out and about in La Perouse, head to Congwong Beach for some pretty spectacular and gentle waters.

Still a relatively secret beach, Congwong is on the smaller side, close to the Anzac Parade entrance to the Kamay Botany Bay National Park. As a National Park beach, Congwong Beach is not pet-friendly but is certainly one of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney, with small waves and warm waters during summer.

Bring an umbrella, as shade is limited. There are toilets on site and a snack or lunch stop at the nearby Boatshed at La Perouse.

Location: Close to the Anzac Parade entrance to the Kamay Botany Bay National Park.

5. Shark Beach, Nielsen Park

This Eastern Suburbs beach has incredible harbour views and a net-enclosed swimming area for extra peace of mind.

Shark Beach is loaded with amenities so families can spend the whole day lapping up the sun. There's a restaurant, a cafe, plenty of shade from gorgeous fig trees, and surrounding natural parklands with abundant green space. Needless to say, it's an absolute family favourite - you're bound to see a few families enjoying the sunshine here! 

Make sure you arrive early, as this hotspot gets pretty busy during summer!

Location: 6 Steele Point Rd, Vaucluse 

6. Redleaf Beach, Double Bay

A beautiful and calm beach with its own enclosed ocean pool - what more could you ask for?

Redleaf Beach is an excellent harbour beach for those seeking gentle waves and a relaxing ambience. The enclosed swimming area is about 90 metres by 60 metres, with boardwalks wrapped around it (fun to stroll with the kids!) and two floating pontoons that older kids will enjoy jumping off. 

The grass slopes are perfect for relaxing in the sun, and there's a nice little kiosk to top it all off.

Location: 536 New South Head Road, Double Bay

7. Camp Cove, Watsons Bay

Did you know that Sydney is home to an award-winning beach? And no, it's not Bondi! Camp Cove beach near Watsons Bay was once awarded the honour of being Australia's Best Beach (beating Bondi, no less!) and is a firm favourite in our repertoire of must-visit family beaches in Sydney.

Along with beautiful, clear-blue waters and clean sand, Camp Cove beach has a kiosk to stock up on your beach day refreshments. Toilets are located at Green Point Reserve at the southern end of the beach.

Location: 23 Victoria Street, Watsons Bay

8. Milk Beach

Another popular kid-friendly beach in the Eastern Suburbs, Milk Beach still remains somewhat of a hidden gem.

Located along the Hermitage Foreshore Walk and tucked into Hermit Bay, Milk Beach offers stunning views of the harbour skyline along with toddler-friendly waves and the opportunity to gape at the million-dollar boats bobbing past in the harbour. 

Facilities such as parking and toilets are, unfortunately, slim to nonexistent. Limited street parking is available nearby, so try to arrive early. There are no toilets at the beach.

Location: At the base of Hermit Bay within the Sydney Harbour National Park.

9. Malabar Beach

Definitely a lesser-known Eastern Suburbs beach, but another great beach to visit with young children.

There's a big green park for running around, a gated play area, BBQ and picnic facilities, and the sandy shoreline at Malabar Beach is a great place to pick up green, amber, and blue glass pieces smoothed by the water.

The long headlands on each side of the beach protect it from rips and surf, keeping the waves relatively small. Don't forget to check out the Malabar Ocean Pool, located near Malabar Beach in Long Bay (just below Randwick Golf Club).

Location: 1-3R Fishermans Road, Malabar

Inner West

10. Bayview Park, Concord

There aren't a great deal of family beaches in Sydney's Inner West, but Bayview Park is definitely a favourite. 

Affectionately known as the 'Parklands Suburb', Bayview Park is right on the water with stunning views of Parramatta River. The parkland offers lovely shaded areas from surrounding trees and an accessible beach where children can play in the sand and explore the rock pools at low tide.

There are also covered picnic tables, barbecues, and toilets on site. Plans are underway to make Bayview Park a safe spot for natural river swimming by adding a new netted swimming area and shower facilities. 

Location: Bayview Park, Concord

11. Cabarita Beach

Set within Cabarita Park on the Parramatta River, this little slice of secluded paradise offers gentle waves for little ones. 

The large, grassy areas are popular for picnics and kids' birthday parties. There are lots of amenities near the beach, including toilets, changing facilities, BBQs, and tables. Plus, there's a playground nearby at the Conservatory, Sanders Kiosk for a bit of refuel, and Cabarita Swimming Centre for even more splashing.

Location: 172 Cabarita Rd, Cabarita

Western Sydney

12. Penrith Beach

Fondly named 'Pondi' because it's the same size as Bondi, Penrith Beach is Western Sydney's swimming oasis.

As part of the sprawling Western Sydney Lakes, Penrith Beach is a one-kilometre stretch of wave-free waters north of Penrith. During the summer months, this stretch is the perfect spot for families to cool off in the water and enjoy an afternoon lounging on the sand.

We highly recommend getting there early, as the car park can only accommodate 350 cars! Opening hours are 10 am to 7 pm with lifeguards on duty.

Please note that Penrith Beach isn't open year-round. The summer 2025-2026 dates have not yet been announced - you can subscribe for regular updates. 

Location: Castlereagh Road, north of Penrith

13. Windsor Beach, Freemans Reach

Beaches in Western Sydney are unfortunately hard to come by, which is why we just love Windsor Beach!

Located in Macquarie Park, Windsor Beach is a delightful spot to take the family on a scorching hot Western Sydney day. The sandy expanse is quite generous, so you, hopefully, won't feel too crowded. There are no waves, but the placid waters are the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Amenities are plentiful and include parking, toilets, BBQs, tables, and even a kids' playground.

Location: 1 Wilberforce Rd, Freemans Reach

North Shore & Northern Beaches

14. Balmoral Beach, Mosman

We absolutely love beautiful Balmoral Beach for its mild and protected harbour beaches, shady picnic areas, and fabulous Balmoral Baths.

Balmoral is divided into three main beach areas, and on sunny days, these sandy spots are full of families enjoying the sheltered conditions of this harbourside location.

There are cafes and restaurants, enclosed harbour baths, a playground, BBQs, and wonderful picnic spots. It's also easily accessible, both by public transport and car, and aside from off-street parking, there's a dedicated paid parking area at the southern end of the beach.

It's essential to note that while this is a very kid-friendly beach, it's not patrolled by surf lifesavers.

Location: The Esplanade, Balmoral

15. Greenwich Baths, Greenwich

If you're after a fabulous hideaway with spectacular harbour views and toddler-friendly waves, you can't go wrong with Greenwich Baths.

Greenwich Baths is a netted swimming enclosure that makes the waters safe and tranquil, plus, there's a shaded beach with plenty of room for bubs and toddlers to paddle, splash, and roam.

Bear in mind that Lane Cove Council run the Baths with lifeguards, so there's an entry fee to this gorgeous spot. Greenwich Baths is currently open for the 2025-2026 season and usually closes for winter after April. Stay up to date with opening and closing dates via the website.

Location: Albert St, Greenwich

16. Northbridge Baths

One of our favourite tidal baths, Northbridge Baths is a must-visit for those close to Middle Harbour.

This enclosed tidal pool offers gentle, shallow waters for little splashers, lap lanes for keen swimmers, and plenty of shady spots to kick back and relax. There's also a kiosk on site for a caffeine fix, kayaks for hire nearby, and toilet facilities - it really is a one-stop summer shop!

Location: 2 Widgiewa Rd, Northbridge

17. Clontarf Beach

You could visit Clontarf Beach and Reserve every day during summer and still not get sick of this gem!

With its fabulous location on the foreshore of Middle Harbour, BBQs, toilets, a cafe, a netted swimming area, grassy areas, AND a nearby playground, Clontarf is a family-friendly heaven. 

There is loads of parking on site, plus, a toddler bike path around the sandy play area. Dogs are most welcome at the nearby Sandy Bay off-leash beach. 

Location: Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf 

18. Shelly Beach, Manly

Golden sands, a large shady reserve with picnic tables, rocks for mini explorers to investigate, the super kid-friendly Boathouse Restaurant (that is RIGHT on the beach), and just a short walk from the famous Fairy Bower Rock Pool… there's no shortage of family fun at Shelly Beach, part of Cabbage Tree Bay. 

Shelly Beach is far more secluded than neighbouring Manly Beach, but it gets busy pretty much every day, so arriving early is a must. The ocean pool on the south end is ideal for toddlers, and has a reef perfect for snorkelling and spying on marine life. There is a ticketed car park at the end of Marine Parade, and toilets next to the Boathouse. All the boxes have been ticked!

Location: Marine Parade, Manly

19. Little Manly Cove, Manly

A peaceful little spot away from the bustle of Manly, Little Manly Cove (also called Little Manly Beach) is a compact beach with a swimming enclosure perfect for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Overlooking this quiet cove is Little Manly Point, with a gorgeous playground suited to the littlies on a shaded, grassed reserve. Plus, Ripples at Little Manly overlooks the beach, so you won't need to go far to enjoy a cuppa after the kids cool off.

Location: Stuart Street, Manly

20. Collins Flat Beach, Manly

Also in Manly, Collins Flat Beach flew under the radar for quite a while, until Sydney families discovered just how perfect this spot is for little swimmers.

Located in the North Head Precinct of Sydney Harbour National Park, Collins Flat is a modest enclave with little to no waves, so it's great for little ones who can't swim or for those keen to grab their floaty and drift the day away. 

The easiest way to access the beach is along Collins Beach Road just beyond the old Manly Hospital. From there, it's just a short walk past the Australian Institute of Police Management and along the Collins Flat Track to get to paradise. Please note that there are no toilets at the beach, so come prepared!

Location: Collins Beach Road, Manly

21. Collaroy Beach

Collaroy Beach is a long stretch of sand that also joins up with Narrabeen Beach, offering over 3 kilometres of splash-tastic joy!

Usually known for its surf, the area best suited for parents with little ones is at the southern headland between Beach Road and Florence Avenue. There is a fantastic fenced playground, a car park, toilets, an adult ocean pool, a shallow toddler pool, and rock pools.

While they're not ideal for swimming, the rock pools are a favourite for your tiny explorer to investigate with a little bit of guidance. Help them explore and spot a few sea creatures and sea life living amidst the rock formations, and you'll have a distracted afternoon of cooling off.

Location: Pittwater Road, Collaroy

22. Avalon Beach

Avalon is another popular beach and surf spot on the Northern Beaches.

While parking can be hard to come by on busy weekends during the summer, there is loads of beach for everyone to enjoy, so you're bound to nab a great spot. Bring your umbrellas, as there's limited shade on the sand, but the nearby grassy areas next to the kids' playground offer some respite. 

Toilets are located at the surf club, and BBQ areas are available for a picture-perfect picnic day. Also at the surf club, Lovat on the Beach has recently opened a beach kiosk, offering yummy coffees, snacks, and bites. 

Location: Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon

23. Dee Why Beach

Dee Why Beach is a great surf beach and a fantastic summer spot for families, too.

If you're visiting with young children, snag a spot at the south end near not one but TWO ocean pools - that's hours of exploration time covered while you sunbake! If this isn't enough, there's a fully fenced playground at the south end, too. There is another playground and an oval near the large car park.

Across the road from the beach, there is no shortage of eateries, cafes, and shops to browse, so a day at Dee Why really can keep you busy for hours.

Location: The Strand, Dee Why

South Sydney & Sutherland Shire

24. Cronulla Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Sydney, you can't beat Cronulla Beach for a day in the sun.

Although waves can get quite big and probably not ideal for toddlers, it has still earned a place on our list because it still has loads to offer. Cronulla Beach is nestled near parklands and cafes, and you're bound to spy a score of surfers doing their thing. The rock pool sits adjacent to the ocean, so it’s still possible to enjoy a relaxing swim with the kids.

Location: Mitchell Rd, Cronulla

25. Darook Park Beach

For calmer waves in Cronulla, Darook Park Beach is a pretty special spot, to say the least!

It's a local gem thanks to plenty of shade, small waves for the kiddies, and some of the clearest and bluest water around. 

Keen for a coffee while you relax? There's coffee about 10 minutes up the road at Little Parrot Cafe. Street parking is available on Darook Park Road, and there are public toilets on site. 

Location: 43 Darook Park Road, Cronulla

26. Salmon Haul Reserve

If you're after a beach with teeny-tiny waves, head to Salmon Haul Reserve in Cronulla.

This is a non-patrolled beach, so make sure to watch your little swimmers, who are sure to love paddling in the cool, shallow waters overlooking Port Hacking. Plus, they'll enjoy going for a little play in the playground at Salmon Haul Reserve after their swim! Toilets are available nearby. 

Location: Gowrie Street, Cronulla 

27. Bundeena Beaches

A gorgeous family-friendly beach in Sydney, just over an hour from the CBD, Bundeena is definitely worth a day trip, with several beautiful beaches to explore.

Bundeena is accessible by ferry from Cronulla or via the Royal National Park by car. Horderns Beach is the area's main beach, close to the ferry wharf amid a cosy little village with a playground and quaint cafes littered along the strip. The best spot for the littlies to splash and play is along Bundeena Creek, south of the wharf. With lots of shade covering the gently flowing creek, you can definitely enjoy a peaceful lie on the sand while the kids play close to you.

28. Maianbar Foreshore & Deeban Spit

If you're up for a little adventure, venture a little further inland from Bundeena to the adjacent Maianbar Foreshore, and you'll find the absolutely breathtaking Deeban Spit.

The exceptionally calm waters and the stunning sand strip that appears at low tide are the ideal spots for a splash with your little splashers. Maianbar Foreshore itself is also a favourite for families.

Location: 67R Pacific Cres, Maianbar

FAQs About Visiting Sydney Beaches With Kids

1. What are the safest beaches for toddlers in Sydney?

Some of the safest spots for little ones are Sydney's calm harbour beaches, where gentle water and minimal swell make paddling far more manageable. Balmoral Beach, Greenwich Baths, Milk Beach, and Little Manly Cove are perennial favourites for toddlers thanks to their sheltered bays and usually low-key conditions. 

2. Which Sydney beaches have playgrounds nearby?

You know you're onto a winner when you find a beach with a playground nearby! Enjoy hours of downtime while the kids swim and then play (or vice versa!) at these popular Sydney beaches with playgrounds: Bondi Beach, Clontarf, Collaroy Beach, Balmoral, Parsley Bay Reserve, Cabarita Beach, and Windsor Beach.

3. Are there any beaches with free parking in Sydney?

Yes - there are several free parking beaches in Sydney, namely in quieter harbourside spots and suburban areas. To save on parking the next time you need a refreshing dip, head to Milk Beach, Congwong, Collins Flat Beach, Parsley Bay, Windsor Beach, Darook Park Beach, and residential parking around Clontarf Beach and Bondi Beach. 

Whichever beach you decide to visit, it's essential to keep safety in mind. Always swim between the red and yellow flags – surf lifesavers have identified this area as the safest spot to swim in the water. Make sure you read any safety signs at the beach, and you are always welcome to ask lifeguards for more safety advice. We also recommend checking conditions before you go via the beach's website. Sydney beaches are some of the most famous in the world, so don't forget the most important rule of all: have fun with your family!

More Sydney Beaches to Try

If your family loves a beach adventure, there are even more places around Sydney to explore. Spend the day along the scenic stretches of the Royal National Park Beaches, unwind under the trees at Sydney Beaches with Shade, or explore the upgraded Lake Parramatta. Sydney's coastline and waterways offer something special for every kind of family outing.

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