Cronulla beach lifestyle

You’ll find a thriving beach culture in Cronulla, home to inviting beaches, secluded bays and endless ocean views. Encircled by water, this beachy suburb in Sydney’s south is a seaside beauty, where everyone is welcome, whether you’re looking for world-class surf beaches, chic beachside dining, scenic coastal walks or wildlife sightings. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins and turtles.

Cronulla is a laid-back, yet lively neighbourhood. Walk the esplanade and you’ll find swimmers in the rock pools, families picnicking in the pretty parklands and joggers heading for the picturesque Bass and Flinders Point. While the golden sweep of beach beyond attracts sunbakers, swimmers and surfers.

South Cronulla Beach, Cronulla

Fun on the beach

A seaside path connects Cronulla Beach to North Cronulla Beach, creating one large swathe of coastline to explore. From North Cronulla you can walk along the sand to the skinny Elouera Beach and Wanda Beach. Cronulla’s beaches are National Surfing Reserves, part of a register of iconic surfing locations in Australia.

This is where former world champion surfer Mark Occhilupo learnt how to surf and so can you. Lessons are available at a number of spots, including Cronulla Surfing Academy and The Bodyboard Academy, which both offer classes for children and adults at all experience levels.

Shelly Beach, Cronulla

You’ll find plenty more things to do, from stand-up paddleboarding to snorkelling. Go swimming in the rock pools along the esplanade at the northern and southern ends of Cronulla Beach if you fancy calmer waters or just to discover what lies beneath. See why divers make a beeline for the crystal-clear waters off Oak Park.

Cronulla Wharf is the launchpad for the ferry service that takes you to pretty Bundeena and the Royal National Park, along with cruises of the Hacking River. Nearby Gunnamatta Park has plenty of shade, barbecue facilities, a children’s playground and an enclosed swimming area, making it popular with families looking for a fun day out. Golf fans will enjoy a round on the scenic Cronulla Golf Course.

Cronulla Rock Pool, Cronulla

Beachside dining

There are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafés to choose from, including the Greek-leaning Ham café and Blackwood Pantry, which serves a colourful all-day brunch menu. For upscale Thai, head toAlphabet St; enjoy Mediterranean food and live music at the Brass Monkey; and relax over a seafood lunch with a side of sea breeze at Henry’s Cronulla.

For those that expect an ocean view with their meal, Summer Salt Restaurant, Zimzala Restaurant and Sealevel all offer modern Australian fare with a focus on seafood, as well as fantastic vistas over the water. For something more casual, pick up fish and chips from one of the many takeaway outlets to enjoy on the sand.