Unwind at Sydney’s best nude beaches with our tips on where to go and what to expect for a perfect beach day.
While not everyone is keen on swimming in the buff, Sydney offers several nudist beaches where shedding your clothes is completely normal.
Though the nudist scene isn’t as prominent as it was in the 70s and 80s, nude swimming is still alive and well in Sydney and New South Wales.
If you’ve ever been curious about the experience, this guide will introduce you to six stunning clothing-optional beaches in Greater Sydney.
1. Cobblers Beach
Often referred to as Australia’s best nudist beach, Cobblers Beach is more than just a destination for skinny dipping.
Located on the northern side of Middle Head in Sydney Harbour National Park, Cobblers Beach is perfect for paddling, snorkelling and picnicking in beautiful surroundings.
The beach can get quite busy, especially during summer weekends, but the atmosphere overall is very welcoming and protective.
2. Lady Bay Beach
Located around the corner from Camp Cove Beach in Watsons Bay, Lady Bay Beach is one of Sydney’s prettiest nudist beaches, with amazing views of Sydney Harbour to take in.
You can find Lady Bay beach along the South Head Heritage Trail, which runs between Camp Cove and the Hornby Lighthouse on the northernmost tip of South Head.
Also known as Lady Jane Beach, this small strip of sand is a designated nude bathing area with a friendly atmosphere.
3. Obelisk Beach
Located on the southern side of Middle Head, Obelisk Beach is smaller and more secluded than its neighbour, Cobblers Beach, but the surroundings and views are just as beautiful.
Obelisk Beach is accessible via a short walking track from Chowder Bay Road in Mosman, with many parking options nearby.
Read our guide on beaches in Mosman for a complete list of the best beaches in this beautiful part of Sydney.
4. Little Jibbon Beach
Quietly nestled away in the northeastern tip of the Royal National Park, Little Jibbon Beach is a beautiful small strip of sand that attracts nudists from all walks of life.
Little Jibbon is only a short stroll away from its bigger neighbour, Jibbon Beach, with some well-preserved Aboriginal rock engravings nearby.
Be mindful, though, that this is not an official nude beach. Also note that privacy may be a bit of an issue on the weekends as people will be hiking past, doing the Jibbon Beach Loop Walk that runs right behind the beach.
5. Werrong Beach
Located at the southern end of the Royal National Park, close to Otford, Werrong Beach is perhaps the most remote and most secluded nude beach included in this list.
Also known as “Hell Hole”, Werrong is accessible via a steep sidetrack from the iconic Royal National Park Coast Track.
However, as beautiful as the beach may be, swimming is not recommended due to the strong rips and currents that are always present there.
Check out our list of beaches in the Royal National Park for more options.
6. Little Congwong Beach
While not an official nudist beach, Little Congwong in Botany Bay National Park does attract a lot of nude swimmers and bathers of all kinds.
Located only a short walk from its bigger neighbour, Congwong Beach, Little Congwong is a gorgeous strip of sand with usually excellent swimming conditions.
Last updated: August 23, 2024
I like Little Congwong the most. Unlike other nude beaches in Sydney no one seems to mind if you keep your swimmers on if you want to. It’s a bit like some nude beaches in Europe I’ve been to.
Werrong is the stand-out in this list. Where else can you do a nude bushwalk for 30 minutes and end up at a secluded beach with grassy slopes, shady trees and relaxed people?
I’ve been here and it’s is very quiet, I’ve been lucky to encounter less than 5 people on my trips and was very relaxed and felt quite safe. Only shame is the swimming but a lovely little creek and some beautiful private grassy areas, great views and amazing wildlife
Great list. Little Jibbon is a lovely nude beach and is increasingly well used by nudists. There’s now even a sign saying it’s a nudist beach.
A very helpful list. I’d probably put Little Congwong up higher. Although an unofficial nude beach it is a really great spot and has much more room than Cobblers. The sand is clean, the water is crystal clear and quite calm, and the regulars on the beach are really nice. We’ve been going here for a number of years and it’s always been great. Most people on the beach are nude, but on busy days there are quite a lot of textiles.
This is a great list! Cobblers Beach is in my opinion by far and away the best nudist beach in Australia. It is a beautiful spot and kept spotlessly clean by those who frequent the beach. There is always a good crowd there and people are friendly and lovely. What’s more it’s a great beach to combine with a walk along Sydney’s stunning harbour. Nothing beats the walk from the Spit to Taronga via Cobblers for a dip to cool off.
I normally go to Little Congwong Beach in La Perouse. I will take your word for it Cathy and give this beach a go during the warmer months.
Late reply. Also for a great atmosphere, beach, spot, try Shelly Beach at Pacific Palms.