Nothing beats a refreshing ocean dip on a sweltering summer’s day. A cold shower and a wet towel do the job, but submerging your body in crystal-clear waters just hits different. Luckily, Sydney is brimming with breathtaking beaches and coastal walks perfect for a cool-down – and we’re not just talking about Bondi Beach. Beyond this famous sandy spot lie countless pristine, uncrowded gems that locals have been quietly keeping to themselves. And now, we’re ready to spill their secrets.
In order to find Australia's hidden coastal gems, the team at BoatBooker scoured Google Maps data for terms like ‘secluded beaches’, ‘hidden beaches’ and ‘quiet beaches’ with less than 100 reviews. From there, they ranked each spot based on its overall rating, spotlighting the best off-the-radar coastal spots.
Located 35 minutes from the swarming summer crowds in Byron Bay, Norries Headland Boardwalk tops the list as Australia’s top hidden coastal gem. At the time of the research, it boasted a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of five from 79 reviews – though we expect that number won’t stay under 100 for long. This beautiful 800-metre return walk is the only non-beach spot on the list, but don’t worry – it leads to Cabarita Beach, where you can enjoy a post-walk dip.
The only other NSW gem to crack the top ten was Sydney's Shelly Beach. Just a short stroll from the Manly shops and ferry wharf, it feels like a secluded island in comparison to the huge stretch of sand that is Manly Beach. Shelly is perfect for a lazy morning swim, a snorkel to spot the famous blue gropers or just stretching out on the sand with a book and a coffee from The Boathouse café. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk from Shelly Beach to North Head (nine kilometres one-way), or even swim the 750 metres back to Manly.
South Australia and Queensland claimed the remaining top ten spots. Rapid Bay and Locks Well Beach secured second and third place for SA, while Queensland showed off its Sunshine Coast credentials with Peregian, Teewah, Cooloola and Main Beach all making the cut. You can discover more hidden coastal spots here or see our round-up below.
The top 10 hidden coastal spots in Australia
- Norries Headland Boardwalk, Cabarita Beach, NSW
- Rapid Bay Beach, SA
- Locks Well Beach, SA
- Woodgate Beach, QLD
- Peregian Beach, QLD
- Shelly Beach, NSW
- Teewah Beach, QLD
- Cooloola Beach, QLD
- Tugun Beach, QLD
- Main Beach, QLD and Sellicks Beach, SA
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