Find the best beach in Australia

Clovelly is a narrow enclosed bay, more ocean pool than beach, where flanking rock ridges cut out almost all wave energy to make it Sydney's calmest patrolled swim spot. You enter via concrete steps rather than sand, and there's more promenade than beach. It's a go-to for small kids, beginner swimmers, and snorkellers, with a marine reserve right at your feet.

“Bring a mask and fins and swim out to the rock wall. The marine reserve means the fish are bold and unafraid here, so you'll see far more underwater life than at most Sydney beaches.”

A 3.6km stretch of golden sand that's calmer than neighbouring Narrabeen, making it a solid pick for families and beginner swimmers. You'll find a 50m lap pool at the southern end and a B-Line bus stop right out front with direct runs to the CBD. Rips are unpredictable though, so stick between the flags when lifeguards are on.

“Head south along Anzac Ave to Long Reef Aquatic Reserve for solid reef snorkelling over nudibranchs, sea hares, and wobbegong sharks. It's been a protected marine area since 1980 and is easy to walk straight past if you don't know it's there.”

Coogee is Sydney's calmer, less crowded answer to Bondi, a sheltered crescent bay where Wedding Cake Island takes the edge off incoming swells. You'll find four ocean pools dotted around the headlands and a lively cafe strip right behind the sand, making it a solid choice for families. Just watch the shore break, it hits harder than you'd expect even on quiet days.

“For snorkelling, walk five minutes north to Gordons Bay. It has an underwater nature trail and is far quieter than the main beach.”