Chinamans Beach is a hidden gem in Sydney’s Middle Harbour. Compared to its larger neighbour, Balmoral Beach to the south, Chinamans Beach typically attracts a smaller crowd.
Rosherville Reserve, just behind the beach, is a spacious green area that’s perfect for an afternoon picnic or barbecue.
Getting There
There’s ample free street parking around Chinamans Beach and Rosherville Reserve, although some walking is required from the surrounding streets to reach the beach.
The reserve also has a small paid parking area along McLean Crescent in Mosman, but it tends to fill up quickly on sunny days (see map).
Public transport is another option, with several buses running through Mosman from the city and Neutral Bay. Check the timetables on the NSW Transport Info website.
In the map below:
1: Chinamans Beach.
2: Rosherville Reserve.
P: Parking on McLean Crescent.
About Chinamans Beach
While Balmoral Beach attracts thousands of visitors each day in summer, its neighbour Chinamans Beach is a much quieter alternative, tucked away between the water and Rosherville Reserve.
Chinamans Beach was named after the Chinese residents who once ran market gardens in the area.
The 230-metre stretch of sand is located in Mosman and faces Middle Harbour, with Clontarf Reserve on the opposite side. The beach is bordered by rocky sections at both ends.
There’s no natural shade on the beach, so it’s best to bring a beach umbrella (or a tent) and plenty of sunscreen. If you need a break from the sun, Rosherville Reserve offers plenty of shady spots.
There are no cafes or kiosks at the beach, so be sure to bring enough drinks and snacks if you plan to stay for a while.
That said, you’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink a bit further away, such as at The Spit, Balmoral Beach, or in Mosman town centre.
Swimming
Chinamans Beach is ideal for a quiet swim. Like most beaches in Sydney’s Middle Harbour, the water is usually calm, making it generally safe for swimming. Just keep in mind that the water can get quite deep, and there’s often boat activity further out.
Water Sports
Chinamans Beach is also a great spot for water sports such as snorkelling, canoeing, and kayaking. It’s best to head to either the north or south end of the beach to avoid swimmers, especially on busy days.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular pastime throughout Sydney’s Middle Harbour. At Chinamans Beach, the best spots are the rocky areas at either end of the beach.
Surfing
Chinamans Beach is not suitable for surfing. As it’s a sheltered spot away from the ocean, there’s usually very little wave action.
Hiking
There are some excellent walking tracks near Chinamans Beach. The short foreshore walk to Balmoral around the rocks is especially enjoyable.
Further afield, the coastal walk between Balmoral Beach and Taronga Zoo is one of the more scenic hikes around Sydney Harbour.
Rosherville Reserve
The large park (around 3 hectares) behind the beach is a peaceful area, perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic or barbecue. With plenty of large trees, there’s no shortage of shade in Rosherville Reserve.
There’s also a small playground where children can burn off energy, and a modern shower and toilet block just behind the beach.
Check out our guides on top beaches in Sydney and secluded beaches in Sydney for more great beach options!
