Balmoral

Bondi. Coogee. Bronte. Manly—the list of famous Sydney beaches is as long as the coastline itself. The Balmoral beaches in Mosman, however, are often overlooked by Sydney visitors who instead head out to the coast. Unlike the larger, more popular beaches, Balmoral is located inside Sydney Harbor—only 15 minutes from downtown sights like the Opera House and The Rocks. Since the Balmoral beaches are protected from waves, surfers are swapped for picnickers and families all lounging out on the grass, and there are even swim zones with calm water surrounded by protective shark nets.
 
The two beaches—Balmoral and Edwards—are separated by a wide, rocky point but linked by the shop-lined Esplanade, and kayaks, paddleboards, and even snorkel gear can be hired along the sand. Looking east out over the beach, visitors are met with sweeping views of the entrance to Sydney Harbor, where two opposing coastal headlands frame the rising sun. More than just being scenic, however, Balmoral is also family-friendly and impeccable tidy and clean.

Cafés line the Esplanade and street sweepers ply the streets, and there isn’t a single late night pub found anywhere along the strip. 

Practical Info

Balmoral is relatively empty on weekdays but get very crowded on weekends. Parking here can be expensive, and public transportation is often the easiest and cheapest bet. The bus lines 244 and 247 connect with the stop at Military Road Mosman, or the 238 connects with Taronga Wharf where you can catch a ferry downtown. Or, if it’s a sunny day and you feel like a walk, take the ferry to Taronga Wharf and enjoy a two-hour stroll. Once here, there are clean facilities, restrooms, and amenities that are perfect for travelers with families.