Battle of Sydney’s beaches continued – Things to do in Cronulla
Helpful resources: – The local rag, Cronulla Life Facebook Page, Whileaway Guide,
Bored of hearing about Bondi and Manly? It’s the argument that divides North & East Sydneysiders. Which beach is better? Having lived in Manly for 8 years I’ll always be in the North camp, but what if there is an alternative. A beach that justified a visit and perhaps offered an even more authentic Aussie experience. Could Cronulla be exactly that? The husband and I took a weekend to explore this up and coming coastal suburb to see if it really is a contender.
Located on the Bate Bay coastline, Cronulla is Sydney’s only beach that can be reached by train. 45 minutes from Central station. Derived from the Aboriginal word kurranulla meaning ‘place of pink seashells’ Cronulla feels less pretentious than other Sydney beaches.
Unlike Manly, there is plenty of parking, even on the hottest summer’s day. Another bonus, most parks are free. In comparison, you’ll pay up to $10 an hour in Manly or Bondi. Unique to Cronulla is the sheer number of beaches and rock pools to choose from. 7 beaches and 5 rock pools to be precise meaning its Sydney’s longest beach.
Cronulla’s own Spit to Manly
Bondi and Manly have their own famous coastal walks each with stunning views, Cronulla can compete. Start at Wander Beach and walk the Cronulla circuit. This stunning coastal walk competes with Spit to Manly or Bondi to Coogee any day. Make sure you pack plenty of water, sun lotion and wear a hat. It’s a beautiful walk and great example of how many beaches, rock pools and parks you can fit onto one headland. This rocky coastline is well patrolled by lifeguards although the rock pools are not. Be careful if you are bathing when the tide is coming in and waves are smashing.
Flinders & Bass point is halfway around the Cronulla circuit. At the most southern end of the peninsula stands the memorial to Matthew Flinders, George Bass & Boy Martin. Whilst out in the Tom Thumb they discovered and named Port Hacking on March 30th, 1796. This special place is idyllic when the sun is shining. Splendid views stretch up the Hacking River, across to the Royal National Park and out to the Tasman Sea. The clear waters surrounding the jagged rocks give way to emerald green deeper areas. Enthusiastic snorkelers interrupt the stillness and sunbakers clutter the rocks like jewels.
Coffee anyone?
If you’re hanging out for coffee, I’d recommend Grind – a true local institution. Here your tourist dollar really will stay local. With mismatching retro style, this place has an electric vibe and enticing aroma of freshly ground beans. The staff are friendly, the people-watching is fabulous and the coffee is bloody good! For over ten years owner, Richard Calabro has had this gem. His passion for sourcing and grinding the highest quality coffee shine through. A great rest break if you’re walking the Cronulla Circuit.
If you’re visiting in the summer and wanting to set up camp, I would steer clear of the main beach. Packed full of sweaty bodies there’s nothing different from any other overcrowded NSW beach. Instead, walk on a little further down the Esplanade to Shelly Beach. Here, there are fewer people, a beautiful rock pool, kids’ playground, and a gorgeous shady park.
Take an ‘Insta’ break
Before leaving the main beach pose for a photo in front of the stunning Insta worthy sandy cliff face. A perfect backdrop of beautiful layered sedimentary sandstone of yellow and brown. Pay respects to late surfers who rode the waves in days gone by. Engraved plaques in the cliff remember them.
Another area I’d suggest hanging out is Gunamatta Bay. A large lush shaded grass area, kids playground, and less crowded beach this is where the locals hang. Located on a large inlet means the netted tidal baths here are calm and wave-free. From here you can also catch a ferry to the National park.
For anyone wanting to learn more about the history of surfing in Cronulla head to the library. Located in Central Arcade both walls of the walkway to the library tell the story of 100 years of surf history. The online resource Cronulla Surf Museum is also worth a read.
Recently Cronulla has emerged a hip dining and bar scene. The Urban List and Timeout are across the newest and coolest places to visit but we went with a local recommendation. We ate at Little Parrot and had post cocktails at the RSL making sure our dollar stayed local.
And in conclusion…..
Cronulla is a great alternative to Bondi or Manly, it’s accessible and cheap in comparison. Whilst Manly and Bondi fight for the international tourist Cronulla is a less popular choice but more than worthy of a visit. Rockpools tick. Surfing tick. Gorgeous beaches tick. Beautiful and scenic coastal walk tick. Children friendly tick. Trendy café scene tick. Good food tick. Transport tick. In conclusion, Cronulla is more than a contender, it’s becoming a competitor to Bondi and Manly. Give it a go and spread your tourist dollar around, believe me Bondi & Manly get plenty.
