A Day Out in Cronulla: Sydney’s Coastal Gem
Sharina SimnettShare
If you’re looking for a perfect seaside escape, Cronulla has it all—stunning beaches, scenic coastal walks, vibrant cafés, and a relaxed, laid-back vibe. Just a short train ride from Sydney’s CBD, it’s the only beach in Sydney directly accessible by train, making it an easy getaway for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're after a swim, a surf, or a great meal by the water, here’s how to make the most of your day in Cronulla.
1. Start Your Day with Brunch by the Beach
Kick off your day with breakfast or brunch at one of Cronulla’s many fantastic cafés. Some top spots include:
☕ Blackwood Pantry – A local favorite known for its fresh, creative dishes and excellent coffee.
🥑 Ham – A cozy spot serving up delicious avo toast, smoothie bowls, and great brews.
🥞 Next Door Cronulla – Located right on the beach, offering amazing views and a mouthwatering menu.
2. Hit the Beach
No visit to Cronulla is complete without some time on the sand. With several beaches to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice:
🏄♂️ Cronulla Beach – The main stretch of sand, perfect for swimming and surfing, with lifeguards on duty.
🌊 North Cronulla – A great surf spot with strong waves and a lively atmosphere.
🏖 Shelly Beach – A quieter, family-friendly beach with shaded picnic areas and a rock pool.
🐚 Wanda Beach – Less crowded and perfect for long beach walks or sunbathing.
If you're keen to learn how to surf, local surf schools like Cronulla Surfing Academy offer lessons for all skill levels.
3. Explore the Cronulla Coastal Walk
For breathtaking ocean views, take the Cronulla Coastal Walk, a scenic track that runs from Cronulla Beach to Bass & Flinders Point. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning cliffside views, rock pools, and hidden beaches. Keep an eye out for dolphins and, during whale migration season (May–November), you might even spot a humpback!
4. Take a Ferry to Bundeena & the Royal National Park
If you’re up for an adventure, hop on the Cronulla Ferry and take a 30-minute ride across Port Hacking to Bundeena—the gateway to the Royal National Park. Here, you can:
🚶♀️ Hike to the Figure 8 Pools or the Wedding Cake Rock.
🏊♂️ Swim at Jibbon Beach, a hidden paradise with calm waters.
🎨 Discover ancient Aboriginal rock carvings near the Bundeena headlands.
5. Grab Lunch or Drinks with a View
After a morning of exploring, it’s time to refuel. Some great spots for lunch include:
🍹 Sealevel – A stunning waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and modern Australian dishes.
🍔 Eat Burger Cronulla – One of the best burger joints in Sydney, perfect for a casual bite.
🍷 Zimzala – A chic beachside spot offering great cocktails and fresh, seasonal dishes.
6. Unwind at a Beachside Bar
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a drink at one of Cronulla’s best bars:
🍻 Northies – A lively pub with a great selection of beers and ocean views.
🍹 The Pines – A stylish venue offering signature cocktails and a relaxed vibe.
🍸 Henry’s Cronulla – A cozy bar with a fantastic wine list and share plates.
7. Catch a Sunset at Oak Park Rock Pool
For the perfect end to your day, head to Oak Park Rock Pool. This stunning ocean pool is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, offering incredible sunset views over the ocean. Bring your camera—it’s a picture-perfect spot!
Discover Cronulla with Local Lines!
At Local Lines, we celebrate the beauty of Australian communities through our coloring books. Stay tuned for our upcoming The Shire Coloring Book, featuring hand-drawn illustrations of the some of Cronulla's iconic landmarks, beaches, and hidden gems.
Want to bring Cronulla to life through art? Check out our collection today!