Mosman, an affluent Harbourside suburb on Sydney’s lower north shore, is a picturesque peninsula separating Middle Harbour from Sydney Harbour.
Just moments from the CBD, Mosman boasts leafy streets, scenic walking trails, vibrant retail spots, and a world-class zoo.
But one of the best reasons to visit Mosman is its array of beautiful beaches; some well-known and lively, others quiet and secluded.
In this article, we’ll reveal the nine best beaches in the Mosman area, perfect for a warm summer’s day.
Ordered in a clockwise manner, these are Mosman’s nine prettiest beaches:
- Chinamans Beach
- Edwards Beach
- Balmoral Beach
- Cobblers Beach
- Obelisk Beach
- Clifton Gardens Beach
- Athol Beach
- Whiting Beach
- Sirius Cove Beach
Here is a map with these beaches marked:
1. Chinamans Beach
Chinamans Beach is a serene, 230-meter stretch of east-facing sand, nestled between rocky outcrops at both ends. It’s a family-friendly spot with calm waters perfect for swimming.
While you won’t find cafes or kiosks here, there’s a convenient toilet and shower block just behind the beach. Nearby, the expansive Rosherville Reserve offers plenty of space for picnics and barbecues.
Chinamans Beach is an excellent, quieter alternative to the busier Balmoral Beach, just around the corner on the other side of Wyargine Point.
Read more about Chinamans Beach and Rosherville Reserve.
2. Edwards Beach
If you’ve visited Balmoral Beach, you might know it’s actually two beaches divided by Rocky Point, a small peninsula accessible via a stone bridge.
The northern stretch of sand beyond Rocky Point is Edwards Beach, though many simply refer to both as Balmoral Beach.
Edwards Beach is a stunning, 400-meter long, east-facing shoreline with plenty of space to find your perfect spot.
Behind the beach, you’ll find the iconic Bather’s Pavilion, the Balmoral Beach Club, and a variety of nearby cafes and restaurants.
3. Balmoral Beach
Balmoral Beach lies just south of Rocky Point, offering a longer but slightly narrower stretch of sand compared to Edwards Beach. The calm waters here are ideal for a gentle swim or a snorkelling session.
At the southern end of the beach, you’ll find the Balmoral Baths, an enclosed swimming area, and The Boathouse, a popular beachside restaurant known for its great atmosphere.
One of the best ways to reach Balmoral Beach is via the short walking track from Chowder Bay, where you can take in stunning ocean and Harbour views before arriving at Balmoral Park.
4. Cobblers Beach
Cobblers Beach is a small yet charming, north-facing strip of sand on Middle Head, reachable via a short walking trail from Middle Head Road.
Despite its secluded vibe, this beach can get busy on warm, sunny days, but the atmosphere is generally relaxed and welcoming.
Keep in mind, Cobblers Beach is clothing-optional, so you might want to be prepared for that if you plan to visit.
5. Obelisk Beach
Obelisk Beach is the second clothing-optional spot on our list of Mosman beaches, located just a short walk from Cobblers Beach on the opposite side of Middle Head.
Even smaller and more secluded than its neighbour, Obelisk Beach shares a similar relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.
You can reach this hidden gem via a short bush trail from Chowder Bay Road, where parking is available.
Read more about Sydney’s clothing optional beaches.
6. Clifton Gardens Beach
Clifton Gardens is more than just a beach; it’s a destination. Nestled in Chowder Bay, this beautiful spot offers a beach with a netted swimming enclosure, a fenced playground, change rooms, and BBQ and picnic facilities.
It’s also a favourite for dog owners, with ample space for dogs to run around in the park, on the beach, and in the water.
If you’re feeling hungry, the Chowder Bay area is home to several kiosks, cafes, and restaurants.
7. Athol Beach
Athol Beach is a quiet west-facing spot offering stunning views of the Harbour and city while you relax on the sand.
Although Google Maps shows Athol Beach as a small strip, there are two slightly larger beaches near the Taronga Zoo Wharf also known as Athol Beach or Athol Bay.
You can reach the beach via the walking trail that runs between Taronga Zoo and Bradleys Head, extending all the way to Balmoral Beach. Look for signs pointing to Athol Beach along the trail.
Read more about the walk from Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach.
8. Whiting Beach
Just a short distance from Athol Beach, Whiting Beach is a quiet and hidden strip of sand located west of the Taronga Zoo wharf.
You can access Whiting Beach via the walking trail that connects Sirius Cove Reserve with the zoo. Look for a set of steps leading down to the beach.
While Whiting Beach offers a picturesque setting on sunny days, be aware that the water can sometimes be less than pristine due to boats passing by or anchoring nearby; a condition also affecting Athol Beach.
9. Sirius Cove Beach
Sirius Cove Beach is part of Sirius Cove Reserve, a quiet hideaway just moments away from Taronga Zoo. You can easily access the reserve and beach by parking at the end of Sirius Cove Road.
The reserve combines a beach with a park, featuring a couple of benches and a playground for kids. The beach is dog-friendly, so expect to see dogs enjoying themselves in the park and on the sand.
From Sirius Cove Beach, a walking path leads you to Bradleys Head, passing by Whiting Beach, Taronga Zoo, and Athol Beach along the way.
Read more about Sirius Cove Beach and Reserve.