My Top 10 Swimming Spots on the NSW Coastline; Hidden Gems of Australia

Desolate sand dunes and white sandy beaches. Enjoy the refreshing clear waters for a swim or snorkel while also gazing upon what appears to be endless mountains of sand in the distance. The beach itself is patrolled for a lovely and safe swim, but also provides a nice place to watch for dolphins and whales in season or try your luck at some beach fishing. But to keep things interesting, Anna Bay also provides access to a range of dunning activities in the sea of sand; Sandboarding, 4WDing, quadbiking and even horse or camel rides. So whether you enjoy sunbaking on the white beaches or adventuring through the wild world of sand dunes, Anna Bay has something to offer. 

If you’ve got a little extra time and like a short hike, you can also walk to the summit of Tomaree Mountain, overlooking Shoal Bay and Zenith Beach (photographed) 

A calm, beautiful beach protected by the natural breakwater of the Hedgehog Island rock formations on the south end. With a long sandbar that extends far into the water, this beach is a perfect spot for a paddle or snorkel without being disturbed by large swells and crashing waves. However, the best part of the beach is found at the south end, within the rock pools and unique formations. Venture around the headland to explore the burst of life within the rock pools and watch the waves of the south side crash onto the rocks and cliffs. Warning: the rocks may be extremely slippery and it can be dangerous near the edges where the waves are crashing. Rock pools may also be home to dangerous species such as the blue ring octopus which may be difficult to see and lurking in the shadows. Always use caution around sea-side rocks.

Nestled into the heart of Jervis bay, where you find some of the most pristine, clear waters and whitest sandy beaches. Callala is one of those beaches with calm waves and that seems to have sunny weather all the time. Perfect for paddling or just a quiet walk on the beach, this is certainly a hidden gem of the east coast. The beach itself is a beautiful spectacle, but if that’s not enough, you can follow a smooth bike path south to Currambene Creek. Where you can also enjoy a swim in the creek, watch the sunset or catch a quick ferry across to the busier town of Huskisson.

Situated away from the hustle and bustle, this lovely little area prizes itself on its empty beaches and small towns, which can make it a little difficult to find accommodation. If you’re looking for an affordable beach house to share with some friends for a weekend getaway, checkout my accommodation review of Sea Gem, Callala Beach House. But get in quick, it books out fast! 

Not exactly on the coast, but still only 20 minutes from the A1 coastal highway, lies another hidden gem destination to escape reality. Lush with greenery and not a soul in sight, this quiet, rocky river bed lays waiting for someone to enjoy. The river flows fairly strong, but is extremely shallow, making it great to take a little walk upstream and then float with the current back to the Promised Land Road Bridge. The crystal fresh, clear, flowing waters are quite cold at first, but you soon get used to it and will then find it hard to convince yourself to leave. 

Jump, swim, relax. A 20 minute detour off the M1 will bring you to this little-known swimming hole. A collection of small yet deep pools that have become a lovely place to relax and float in the fresh waters with a lovely ocean view. The area was once a rock quarry that accidentally disturbed an underground freshwater spring, causing the quarry to fill and create a lovely, deep oasis. The sheer sides of the rock and deepness of each quarry makes it a great place to jump into the water off the surrounding rock. Disclaimer: despite being a popular area for cliff jumping into the freshwater, it is always important to check the water depths at any jump site; check before you jump! Whether you come for a swim, a jump or just a picnic by the ocean, Angourie Pools will entertain and refresh you. 

A quiet swimming spot between Willington Rocks and the V Wall in Nambucca Heads. Protected by natural rock formations on the north and a breakwater on the south, this little beach is a relaxing place to take a dip in its clear waters while you explore the area. Take a stroll or skate along the smooth and wide, locally decorated footpath known as the V Wall. Then later, admire the towering and intricate natural rock formations known as Wellington Rocks, situated on the far side of the beach. Warning; sandstone can be brittle and slippery, use caution while exploring or climbing any rocks. 

Being a harbour, Coffs’ beaches do not have towering waves or giant swells, but rather small shore breakers and consistent rollers. This makes the beach calming and enjoyable, great for a refreshing swim, snorkel or paddle board. The clear, blue waters and very gradual increase in depth make for a long, enjoyable ride back into shore on a board or body surfing.  On the north end, you also have access to the Coffs Creek inlet, for a refreshing paddle , without the disturbance of the waves. So, whether you prefer the salty waves or just a refreshing swim, Coffs Harbour has something for you! 

Beautiful beaches stretch up and down the entire east coast of Wollongong so it’s nearly impossible to pick a favourite. No matter where you swim, you’ll be greeted with consistent swells, clear waters and soft sandy beaches. However, I became particularly fond of Thirroul due to its adjoining park, which provides a perfect place for a picnic or to just relax on the soft grass after a refreshing swim. On one side of the road, the reserve has a playground, bike path and kids area, while the other side is a large open grass field. The Beach itself has gentle waves, perfect for a relaxing swim or easy surf lesson. But if the waves aren’t your style, there is also a 50m swimming pool right beside the beach. 

This quiet beach amongst the Currarong Rock Pools offers a stunning spot to relax and refresh in the salty water. As a west facing beach on the east coast, it is protected from large swells and winds, making it the ideal place for a paddle or snorkel. The rock pools on the west side of the beach offer an interesting array of flora and fauna to admire in the shallow pools. The beach is located at the entrance of the Gosangs Tunnel walking track, one of my all time favourite coastal hikes. Unfortunately, in 2022, the main feature of the track; a tunnel through the cliffside to a phenomenal coastal view, was temporarily closed and has not yet been reopened. But keep a close eye out for it’s opening because it’s definitely worth the walk. 

I can’t talk about beautiful coastal swimming areas without mentioning the well known Byron Bay. There is no doubt that Byron Bay features clear blue waters and warm white sandy beaches perfect for a surf, swim, or sunbake. But Byron unfortunately sits at number 10 on my list due to its outrageously high tourist centred prices, crowded shores and impossible paid parking. It is certainly a place worth experiencing, but I’d recommend that you make it a quick visit, rather than a holiday stay, unless you’re willing to pay the extra dollars that comes with the tourist destination.