Festival Season: Experience Sydney’s Spring Events
Spring is about to sprung in Sydney, and you know what that means – festival season is on! But hold up, this isn’t your typical festival season. If you’re headed…
Before we dive in, a quick disclaimer: there are over 20 beaches in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, we’re covering some of the them in this blog. Whether you’re looking to chill, explore, or snap some next-level Insta pics, this blog is your ultimate vibe check on what makes each beach on Sydney’s northern coastline special.
Manly is the gateway to the Northern Beaches, offering a little bit of everything. Not only is the surf amazing, but it’s also a prime spot to grab a drink at a waterfront bar, bike along the esplanade, or catch the ferry to the city at sunset. And yes, we might be a bit biased—it’s our favorite because Stoke Beach House is right there—but trust us, it’s more than just the location. If you’re not into surfing, Shelly Beach is a short walk from Manly and perfect for snorkeling with calm waters and vibrant marine life.
Vibe: The perfect mix of beach and city life, with a buzzing social scene.
Right next to Manly, Freshwater offers a laid-back vibe that feels worlds apart. It’s smaller and more intimate, making it great for those wanting to avoid the crowds. Fun fact: Freshie is where surfing was first introduced to Australia. But even if you’re not a surfer, it’s perfect for swimming, with clear waters and rock pools to explore.
Vibe: Calm, chill, and historical.
Split into North and South Curl Curl, this beach is known for its wide, open space and fewer tourists. What sets Curl Curl apart isn’t just the surf—the walking tracks here offer stunning views of the coastline.
Vibe: Open, wild, and natural.
Dee Why has a bit of everything: beachside cafes, grassy barbecue spots, and a long promenade for strolling. If you’re into the social scene, this is the place to be. There’s also a rock pool at the southern end, ideal for swimming or relaxing if the waves aren’t for you. Grab some fish and chips and enjoy people-watching or exploring foodie spots.
Vibe: Social, lively, and full of options.
Narrabeen Beach stretches for about 3 km, offering plenty of space to find your own patch of sand. Nearby Narrabeen Lake is perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking. It’s an ideal spot if you want to mix beach time with water sports.
Vibe: Expansive, adventurous, and fun.
Palm Beach is where you’ll spot the rich and famous, and it’s easy to see why. This beach looks like a movie set (literally—it’s the backdrop for Home and Away). The Barrenjoey Lighthouse hike offers stunning views, while the calm waters on the Pittwater side are perfect for paddleboarding or renting a boat.
Vibe: Luxe, exclusive, and picture-perfect.
Avalon boasts a laid-back, surf-town vibe with a bohemian edge. While the beach is great, the village steals the show. It’s filled with vintage shops, cafes, and yoga studios, giving off relaxed coastal energy. If you’re into creative vibes, Avalon is for you.
Vibe: Boho, creative, and super chill.
Turrimetta Beach is one of those hidden gems not many people know about. Tucked between North Narrabeen and Warriewood, it’s small and secluded, perfect for escaping the crowds. With no surf club or shops, it’s just you and the beach—ideal for some peaceful downtime. The sunrise views are especially stunning.
Vibe: Quiet, remote, and ideal for solitude.
Each of Sydney’s Northern Beaches has its own unique vibe, offering way more than just epic surf. Whether you’re down for a scenic hike, paddleboarding, a beachside BBQ, or just kicking back with your mates, there’s a beach here with your name on it. The best part? You can hop on a bus right across the street from Stoke Beach House and get to any of these amazing beaches in no time.
Loved this vibe check? If you want to know about the rest of the Northern Beaches we didn’t cover, hit us up on Instagram at @stokebeachhouse and we’ll give you the lowdown. And don’t forget—book your stay ASAP, as we sell out quickly!
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