New South Wales In Australia Is The Ultimate Beach Destination -- Here's Why!

When you’re in the Land Down Under, head straight to New South Wales to make the most of the glistening golden beaches that promise a sunny holiday paired with bundles of fun.

No visit to the Land Down Under is complete without a stopover to its many stunning beaches. In fact, New South Wales, located on the south-eastern coast of Australia, houses 892 beaches, of which 100 are in Sydney alone! These glistening golden coastlines facing the Tasman Sea often tempt beach lovers and travellers from around the world. But with such a plethora of options to choose from, it can be difficult to pick a destination that best suits you.

To make this itinerary planning easier, Travel+Leisure India & South Asia has picked some stunning seaside spots for you to get started.

Sun, Sand, and Shine at New South Wales’ Beaches

Bondi Beach

Sydney’s legendary Bondi Beach — located less than a 20-minute drive from the bustling city-centre — is an apt launchpad to the many sandy wonders that the state offers. Considered surfer’s paradise, this crescent-shaped beach is an Instagrammer’s delight, too. Widely considered one of the world’s most famous beaches, its glistening blue ocean, vibrant village vibes, and laidback persona complemented by eateries overlooking the coastline make for a great beach getaway. When here, rent a paddle and hit the waves or simply splash about in the sparkling blue waters. Choose from private or group lessons with experienced surfing instructions who will run you through the basics of paddling, catching waves and standing. Or hit daybreak for an expert-guided sunrise yoga class. Those looking for a more leisurely visit can enjoy a stroll along Bondi’s thought-provoking Graffiti Wall that stretches along the beachfront promenade, savour seafood delights at the many cafes, unwind at the Bondi Icebergs Club that is home to an all-year-round swimming pool since 1929, or even shop for fresh produce at local markets.

Merewether Beach

The more seasoned surfers can head to Merewether Beach, two hours north of Sydney in the city of Newcastle. Home to Surfest, an international surfing competition, this serene space is a part of a beach reserve that stretches from Dixon Park in the north to Burwood Beach in the south. All around, superb views accompany. Sit down at a beachside cafe for some coffee, and watch locals as they walk their dogs. Or venture further towards the beach promenade where the Merewether Ocean Baths await. Touted as the largest Ocean Baths complex in the southern hemisphere, this free to access spot is ideal to enjoy wave free frolicking, and cool off with ocean-side icecream. Head here during sunrise for the perfect capture for the ‘gram.

Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed paradise, is just as secluded. So much so that only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at any given point! Picture schools of fish swimming at your feet, long hours of snorkelling amid coral reef, or even hikes to twin peaks for panoramic views of the lagoon, reefs, mountains and plunging cliffs. Deep-divers are in for a treat as this crescent-shaped isle doubles as a refuge for the world’s most southerly coral reef. What’s more — the island also plays host to 241 species of native plants, including 105 that are unique to the island. Add to this 207 varieties of exotic birds, 450 types of fish, 90 species of coral — many of which are native to this part of New South Wales — and over 60 dive sites!

For a truly memorable experience, consider feeding fish by hand at Ned’s Beach or even cruising further for a snorkelling tour. Travel back in time by staying at Pinetrees Lodge, one of Australia’s oldest family-run businesses whose owners have lived on Lord Howe since 1848.

Murrays Beach

Less than three hours south from Sydney, along the Oyster Coastline, is Jervis Bay. Here, enjoy family time at Murrays Beach where turtles, families of squid and bright blue gropers often pop out to say ‘hello!’ Famed as the jewel in the Booderee National Park, the crystalline waters and reefs here are a part of a protected bay sheltered by Bowen Island. What truly makes this beach special are the many self-guided walking routes that dot the landscape. From the Munyunga waraga dhugan (loop walk) to the various low tide walks, breathtaking views and sightings of Booderee’s plants, animals, culture and history accompany every step of the way. For a bite to eat, The Quarters offers a tasting menu featuring local produce; while the beer garden at the Flamin Galah Brewing Co is an ideal spot to sample the brewing scene.

Gordon’s Bay and Coogee Beach

Located to the east of Sydney, when here, float over protected reefs or venture out into the open waters near Gordons Bay, followed by a self-guided Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail (a 600-metre diving or snorkelling trail linked by an underwater chain of information plaques). If you’re not fond of water and prefer staying on land, walk along the concrete platforms and promenades constructed on either sides of the bay. Venture further towards the southern side of the beach where a saltwater pool invites for a quick plunge. And when you’re looking to grab some grub, head straight to The Sea Salt Cafe. Don’t miss out on taking a dip in the countless ocean pools at Coogee, such as McIver Baths that is Australia’s last remaining seawater pool for women and children only. While Wylie’s Baths is a tidal pool with an elevated timber deck, Ross Jones Memorial Pool is known for its sandcastle-like turrets jutting out from the concrete pool walls. End the trip at Coogee Pavilion (formerly known as Coogee Palace). This relaxed ocean-facing destination boasts of freshly shucked oysters, sashimi, wood-fired pizzas, kids dishes, and sharing plates. Beyond food, head to the nostalgic games arena – complete with petanque, giant magnetic scrabble, ping pong and an in-house theatrette – ensuring fun for all ages.

Manly Beach

At Manly Beach – accessible via a ferry transportation from Circular Quay – guided snorkelling tours take you to the protected Cabbage Tree Marine Reserve that not only houses blue gropers, but also wobbegong sharks and shimming nudibranchs or sea slugs. While the three-kilometre-long beach is great for surfing and snorkelling, activities like bushwalking, paddle boarding, sailing, and cycling also complete the itinerary here. Include a visit to the Manly Art Gallery and Museum, or make pitstops at the great shopping arcades, cafes, restaurants, and pubs. But beyond the usual beach affairs, this sandy delight in New South Wales also attracts with many events. In fact, Manly has previously hosted Sydney Surf Pro, the Australian Beach Volleyball Tour Volley Fest, and even many local festivals like Manly Jazz, and Taste of Manly.

Narooma

If you’re on the lookout for seals, Narooma is the place to be. Believed to translate to ‘clear blue waters’ in the local indigenous language, this small beach town is surrounded by the waters of Wagonga River, its estuary, and the Pacific Ocean. In short, it’s a haven of blue! This natural beauty lends itself to a brilliant spot for surfing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and even swimming. And to make it better, it’s fairly hidden from the regular tourist’s gaze. Catch a wave at Narooma Surf Beach or admire the ancient rock formations of Glasshouse Rocks and Pillow Lava. Bar Beach South, on the ocean side of the Wagonga Inlet, is an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving, with the calm enclosed waters home to schools of fish, squid, and jellyfish. On the southern side of town, Handkerchief Beach is known for powerful surf, which runs between Nangudga Lake and the sea.

Getting to New South Wales

With Singapore Airlines, enjoy seamless daily connections to Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, from eight major cities across India. Watch your favourite TV shows and movies in world class comfort, and bookmark them so that you can pick up where you left off on your return flight. Savour delectable meals, use the inflight Wi-Fi to stay connected, or simply slip into a cosy slumber in the spacious seats that come with ample legroom across all cabins. For parents hoping to give younger ones lesser screentime, the Airline also has an activity pack to keep children engaged through the journey. After all, a relaxing and comfortable flight is key to soaking in sun and sand at New South Wales!

Related: Enriching Guided Tours To Serene Walks: 15 Things To Do In Sydney For Free

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