Swimming in Sydney

I have not traditionally been a beach person, because Australian beaches are hot, gritty places filled with poisonous and many-toothed creatures. But having lived in Sydney for a few months now I’m starting to gain a new perspective — the swimming to be had around Sydney is quite magnificent.

Salmon Haul Bay is in Cronulla, just across the water from Bundeena in the Royal National Park. There are signs up that explicitly warn about the presence of deadly blue ringed octopus, and you can see why the octopi like it. The water is calm and clear and it’s a perfect place on a hot summer afternoon.

Salmon Haul Bay.

Salmon Haul Bay.

Closer to the city there are beautiful foreshore walks in Vaucluse, home of the rich and famous. Along the way are a number of lovely harbour beaches, including the sheltered Parsley Bay, and Camp Cove where the sand is particularly pleasant underfoot.

One of the many unnecessary yachts in Vaucluse.

Vaucluse.

Camp Cove.

Cave Cove.

On the Eastern side of the city there are many amazing surf beaches and sheltered bays to choose from. It’s been wonderful learning about the place, exploring the cliff-top walks, and getting to know the individual characters of all the beaches.

Swell on the east coast of Sydney.

Coogee.

Far on the north of Sydney is the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which has its share of sparkling water and beautiful outlooks.

Lion Island seen from West Head in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Barrenjoey Head and its lighthouse.

And the Royal National Park to the south remains a firm favourite, with the hiking and swimming a particularly appealing combination.

Era Beach and North Era Beach, in the Royal National Park.