Shark Beach
Beach · Vaucluse ·

Shark Beach

Beach · Vaucluse ·

Shaded beach with cafe, picnic spots, harbor views

shark nets
calm waters
picnic areas
cafe
restaurant
nielsen park
green space
clear water
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null
Shark Beach by null

Information

New South Wales 2030, Australia Get directions

Information

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New South Wales 2030, Australia Get directions

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

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Last updated

Jan 30, 2026

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15 Best Beaches in Sydney | Condé Nast Traveler

"Don’t let the toothsome name put you off—like most of Sydney’s harbour beaches, lovely little Shark Beach is protected by shark nets, so Jaws won’t bother you here. This 220-metre sandy strip is in leafy Nielsen Park, in the upscale Sydney suburb of Vaucluse, right between Rose and Watsons Bays. It’s also part of Sydney Harbour National Park, and has some wildly beautiful coastal walks. The soft sand is perfect for lounging, and there are plenty of grassy knolls that beckon a picnic—so pack up the family and head out." - Sophie Davies

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-beaches-in-sydney
Shark Beach

John K.

Google
Nielsen Park's Shark Beach to be shut for another summer as ...Shark Beach is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot located within Nielsen Park in Vaucluse, Sydney. It's known for its calm, sheltered waters, protective shark net, and views of the harbour and city skyline. The beach recently reopened after extensive seawall repairs and includes facilities like the Nielsen Park Kiosk for food and drinks, picnic areas, and toilets. Key features and amenities Location: Within Nielsen Park, on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour in Vaucluse. Swimming: Features a shark net, making it one of the safer swimming spots in the harbour. The water is generally calm due to its sheltered location. Facilities: Includes picnic areas, public toilets, and outdoor showers. Food: The Nielsen Park Kiosk offers both casual take-away options and a dine-in menu. Accessibility: A wheelchair-accessible ramp and additional seating have been added as part of the recent upgrades. Views: Offers excellent views of Sydney Harbour, including the city skyline and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Access Car: Accessible by car, but parking can be challenging during busy times. Walk: Accessible via the Hermitage Foreshore Walk, a scenic coastal walk. Recent history The beach and park reopened in December 2024 after a three-year closure for seawall repairs. The original seawall, built in the 1930s, was damaged in a 2016 storm and replaced with a new structure designed for longevity and to accommodate climate change.it Shark Beach Enclosure Net Status ​A report published shortly after the official reopening on December 12, 2024, explicitly states that the protective net has been replaced/installed as part of the project: ​"And a brand-new shark net has been erected to, well, keep the sharks out and the swimmers in! Another welcome change is the reopening of beachside The Kiosk at The Nielsen which was bustling when we visited." (Source: Inner West Mums, Dec 13, 2024)The swimming enclosure net (which is a different system from the ocean-facing shark nets) was installed and is operational following the beach's reopening in December 2024. while the local enclosure net at Shark Beach is confirmed as new and in place, which is not the case 🤔 you can see 👀 it's missing and people swim through between the poles were the shark net should be. Was there 26/12/25 the shark net is now fixed.

shiloh V.

Google
My favourite beach. There is a restaurant where you can eat while looking at this beautiful view where you can literally see 3 beaches from the other side of the harbour bridge. Also, there are tons of green spaces to chillax and overall it’s just so nice there ❤️❤️❤️

Shann B.

Google
Beautiful spot, clear and calm waters (it’s in the bay) and comfortable. Food option is simple but satisfying if you want no frills lunch.

Gene

Google
My fav beach now, have beach space and green space and little cute cafe for you to chill.

Jacob B.

Google
Beautiful beach with clean sand, clear water and a really peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for swimming, walking and relaxing without feeling crowded. Clear signage advising that dogs are not permitted as the area is protected. A lovely place to spend the day.

Sarp O.

Google
Nicely refurbished and pretty comfortable for a concrete sitting area. Be aware there was a warning about asbestos contaminated debris.

Michela Z.

Google
Beautiful harbour beach, with a gentle incline, no waves, and shark nets for safe bathing. The terraces and grassed areas for sun-bathing, the classic changing sheds, and a great cafe for your favourite snacks, drinks and lunches - this is a wonderful place to spend a halfday with family and friends. For smaller kids, it’s a great place for a paddle.

Jessica H.

Google
Beautiful beach with refreshing waters. The shark net adds a layer of protection and hosts a few seaweed which attract large fish. The water is both shallow and deep accommodating for a range of swimming abilities. You have to get there very early (before 830) to ensure a parking space and less crowds.
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Michelle N.

Yelp
While I wouldn't call this a beach, more of a bay. However you do get the occasional wave from the boats passing by. But don't fear, the name shouldn't scare you away. I myself are terrified of sharks, but am a regular at this beach. I have seen no sharks. There is a shark net, but I am affraid it would offer no protection from one of those toothy pricks. But lets just think it will. :) I love that it is off the beat and track. The water is clear (with some bad days). There are lots of families here, but yet in a way its peaceful. There is plenty of space, whether you want to lay on the sand, sit under one of the many trees, tan on the rocks, or grab a bite to eat at the Kiosk. Based at the bottom end of Nielson National Park this little secret spot is a great chillout location. If you don't want to jump in the water, you can always take a walk around the park tracks. The views are spectacular, and you may also find a couple of other beaches along the way. Whats that Bondi.....pfft!
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Paul J.

Yelp
Do not fear! Contrary to what the name may suggest, this beach in Nielsen Park is not infested with sharks. Instead it is packed with young kids and families relaxing and playing at this small harbor beach. Shark Beach can be found in Nielsen Park in the ritzy suburb of Vaucluse. The entire area is just stunning, with stately mansions surrounding the park and lush greenery everywhere. It's really close to the city, too. You can get here on the 325 bus that runs along Vaucluse Road and drops you off at the entrance of Nielsen Park. The best traits of this beach are that it is small, shaded, and has very tranquil and clear waters. Shark nets act as a barrier several feet from the shore, beyond which you can see dozens of sailboats and kayaks. The beach itself is quite tiny, but right behind it is a lovely promenade with the Nielsen Park Café and Restaurant, toilets, barbeques, and picnic tables. There are plenty of places to seek shade amongst the giant trees that dot the park.
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Matthew S.

Yelp
Come here. Go on, just go to it, lay on the beach. Make sure you go when the sun is shining (winter or summer). Shark nets are around the main beach, but it's still lovely even with that eyesore. Lovely restaurant on the shore and old school take out joint too. Just go, you won't regret it.
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Kristi C.

Yelp
Billed as one of Sydney's best kept secrets, Shark Bay is a beautiful spot to picnic, laze, or take the kids for a splash. The restaurant looks lovely and fortunately the kiosk is there to cater for sudden attacks of the munchies. Definitely recommend getting there early to secure both a car park and a prime spot by the beach.