Clovelly Beach

Clovelly Beach feels like someone carved a giant ocean lap pool into the coastline and invited the whole city to share it. The narrow bay is flanked by wide concrete promenades where people stretch out with towels, and the water usually sits calm and glassy compared with Sydney’s surf beaches. Slip in and visibility can be excellent on a clear morning. Schools of sweep flicker past, darting between patches of kelp, and if you are lucky a friendly blue groper will cruise by with the slow confidence of a local. It is one of those places where even a basic mask and snorkel turns a quick swim into an easy little adventure. Getting into the water is straightforward. There are stairs and ladders along the sides, plus a shallow ocean pool at the southern end for anyone who wants a gentler paddle. The bay is protected, which makes it ideal for kids and less confident swimmers, but there can be a bit of surge closer to the mouth, so it pays to keep an eye on conditions. On warm days the concrete heats up quickly and shade is limited, so a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle are essential. Rock shoes help if you plan to hop across the edges to find a quieter perch. Practicalities are well covered. Lifeguards patrol in season, the change rooms and showers are tidy, and there is a kiosk for coffee, cold drinks and hot chips. Parking exists at both ends but fills early on weekends, so arriving before mid morning keeps things simple. If you feel like a stroll, the coastal path to Gordon’s Bay offers another lovely snorkel spot a few minutes away. Clovelly’s best trick is its simplicity. You can turn up with a towel and goggles, pick a spot on the promenade, and be in postcard clear water within minutes.

So beautiful for a snorkel. Waves were a bit strong for beginner divers but manageable if you have fins! Lots of blue gropers and beautiful fish.

Clovelly Beach is one of Sydney’s most unique and inviting coastal spots, especially for those who prefer calm waters, easy access, and a laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the broad, sandy expanses of Bondi or Coogee, Clovelly is a narrow bay flanked by concrete platforms, almost like a natural ocean pool, making it ideal for a peaceful swim, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the water without dealing with waves or crowds. The beach’s protected inlet creates a calm environment that’s perfect for families, casual swimmers, and especially snorkelers. The water is usually clear and calm, revealing a surprising variety of marine life — schools of fish, colorful seaweed, and even the occasional blue groper, which has become something of a local mascot. If you're new to snorkeling or just looking for a hassle-free spot to explore underwater, Clovelly is one of the easiest and safest places to dive in. The surrounding area is well-maintained, with easy stairs into the water, flat lounging areas, showers, and nearby cafes for post-swim snacks. There’s a community vibe here that makes the whole experience feel welcoming and relaxed — a refreshing contrast to the buzz of Sydney’s more iconic beaches. Clovelly Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and quiet charm, making it a favorite for anyone looking to unwind by the sea or explore the marine life just below the surface. Whether you're a local or a traveler, it’s a spot worth visiting — and lingering at.

Clovelly Beach is peaceful and unique, with a natural rock pool vibe, clear waters, and ideal spots for snorkeling.

Very unique with pristine waters. It is like your natural swimming pool along the coast.

I love that you can jump in and not get sandy. Then just simply shower off. Better on high tide like most beaches. Low tide can be a bit shallow for entry. But it's an underwater world with so many fish!

Our absolute fav beach. My kids LOVE swimming here. Much quieter without big waves . We normally head there when it's hot day but early morning or late afternoon like 5pm ish... you will find spots to park a car without going 1000 times around the car park to find it. But when you go peak time you will struggle for parking spot. Might need to park far and walk to the beach. There is public toilet and cafe there. Quite a queue to purchase when it's a hot day with a lot of people. I normally pack some food, fruits and drinks. No fancy shops around the beach like Bondai or Coogee, but this one is our fave 🥰 if you have smaller kids, I absolutely recommend trying out! Last photo is from the dog ok area, and overlooking covelly beach. There is water for the dog to drink too.

Lovely beach and there's toilet and changing room facilities too, the water is reasonably clear and if you don't love sand in everything you can sunbathe on the sides