10 beaches you must visit in NSW

SYDNEY’S Bondi Beach hogs all the fame and glory, but these lesser-known gems are just as beautiful — and with none of the crowds.

Blueys Beach, on the Mid North Coast of NSW, is just as rewarding as any of Australia’s more famous beaches. Picture: Supplied

JUST as birds naturally migrate with the season, Aussies automatically flock to the beaches in the summer.

The east coast is one of the most beautiful in the world, with a multitude of beaches, surf spots and photogenic cliffs.

Skyscanner Australia has had a look around NSW to find our favourite weekend retreats at some of the best of the state’s beaches.

BLUEYS BEACH

Some of NSW’s best beaches can be found around Forster, with Blueys Beach being one of the highlights. Surfers congregate at one end of the beach, leaving the rest of the stretch for families, relaxing couples and those who want to splash in the waters. Holiday accommodation is available around this spot, which also opens up nearby areas like Boomerang Beach.

SEAL ROCKS

Treachery Beach, at Seal Rocks on the NSW Mid North Coast. Picture: Flickr/Eduardo MC

Within easy driving distance of Blueys Beach is the town of Seal Rocks and its splendid coastline. Its name comes from the colony of Australian fur seals that plays in its waters, making for some great Instagram moments. Grey nurse sharks and a number of shipwrecks give Seal Rocks a great reputation among divers.

GARIE BEACH

Garie Beach, in Sydney’s lower Royal National Park, is considered one of Australia’s best beaches. Picture: David Finnegan

To really get back to nature, head to Garie Beach. As well as sand, surf and hiking trails, the local YHA helps you get in the spirit of things with no frills accommodation: no shower, no electricity and no flush toilet. Despite being only 40km south of Sydney, you couldn’t feel like you were further away from big city life.

MERMAID POOLS

Mermaids Pools near Bargo, NSW. Picture: Wollondilly Tourism

Not all of NSW’s best swimming areas are on the coast and although Mermaid Pools may not technically be a beach it’s definitely worth a mention. A short drive west from Sydney, followed by a 45 minute trek, brings you to this secluded spot, circled by trees and with a lazy waterfall pouring in. Some visitors like to jump from the ledges — available at around 10m and 20m — but it’s safer to walk in from ground level.

ZENITH BEACH

Zenith Beach at Nelsons Bay. Picture: Supplied

Nelson Bay and Port Stephens are loved by families around NSW. The marina area is full of restaurants, the whale watching tours are a big hit and the main beaches give a sense of vacation and safety. Zenith is a little quieter — especially during the school holidays — and is just a short drive from the main drag. Because it’s next to Mount Tomaree, you can also break up your day with a little climb.

REDHEAD

The exquisite sunset at Redhead Beach. Picture: Aleah Parr

For a city break, Newcastle has more than its fair share of luxurious beaches, often with few people on them. Just south of the city is Redhead, complimented by neighbouring Dudley, where you can catch a wave or just laze on the sand. Redhead has a cafe at one end, and a daunting cliff that makes for great photo opportunities.

CAVES BEACH

Kitesurfing at Caves Beach. Picture: Chris Pavlich

Photographers may want to head farther south into Lake Macquarie region to explore Caves Beach. As the name suggests, the main attraction is the series of caves at the southern end. These are accessible only at low tide, so make sure you keep an eye on the water line.

BYRON BAY

Wategos Beach at Byron Bay.

Sometimes a weekend away is about more than just the beach, and Byron Bay offers the best of many worlds. As well as a beautiful stretch of golden sand, the town enjoys a reputation for great cafes, an amazing art culture and a smattering of independently owned bars and restaurants.

HYAMS BEACH

The pristine white sand at Hyams Beach on the NSW South Coast.

Found in Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach is a breathtaking vista of powdery sand and crystal clear water. If this pristine beach isn’t sounding alluring enough, dolphins often swim in the bay and are happy for humans to join them for a splash.

PEBBLY BEACH

Pebbly Beach lives up to its name. Picture: Flickr/ Dan Roozemond

Towards Batemans Bay, close to the village of Termeil, is Pebbly Beach. As well as its many human visitors, this beach is used by kangaroos who want to relax by the ocean. There are various accommodation options nearby, and the local campground is perhaps the best way to keep in touch with nature.

This article originally appeared on Skyscanner Australia.