Ever had a ‘pinch yourself’ moment at the beach? That feeling of just sitting there, sun hugging your back, as you gaze out to the horizon and think, “Am I dreaming?” It's a feeling that sticks with you forever and becomes one of the best days you’ve ever had. That’s why we wanted to share our top 5 beaches in our beautiful backyard of NSW, with all the nitty-gritty details that made them so special. 

Grab your towel (and your umbrella!) and let's dive in! We hope these spots are just as memorable for you.

Best Beaches in North NSW

1. Dreamtime Beach, Fingal Head

Situated on the south side of Fingal Head, between Tweed Heads and Kingscliff, Dreamtime Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in NSW (yep, we’re calling it!).

One of the most memorable aspects is the walk through the rainforest to get there. You'll feel a sense of calm immediately wash over you as you make your way along the path, before emerging onto the open expanse of the beach. You'll find a stretch of soft, white sand and crystal-clear ocean with shades of blue, green, and turquoise blending seamlessly together. On a sunny day, it's absolutely magical!

Dreamtime beach is east-facing, so it has a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, while the North end provides ideal shelter from the prevailing north-easterly winds in summer. The beach is a great place to go swimming and surfing, as it is sheltered from the wind and has great waves.

Due to its protection by the Fingal Head Marine Reserve, there is abundant marine life, and if you're lucky you might spot some dolphins or even a whale! You can also walk up to Fingal Head Lighthouse easily from the beach, on a scenic track which is 2.3 kilometers, or about 30 minutes to reach on foot. 

Best for: Natural beauty, Tranquil atmosphere, Bushwalking

2. Lighthouse Beach, Seal Rocks

Lighthouse Beach in Seal Rocks, New South Wales is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. One of the unique features of this beach is that visitors can drive onto the sand and park directly on the beach, making it easy to transport all the necessary gear for a day of fun in the sun. This long, unspoiled stretch of beach boasts stunningly clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also well-known for having some of the best surfing conditions in the region, with consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers. Additionally, the beach is often lined with beautiful wildflowers and breathtaking views of the nearby Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, which adds to the charm and serenity of the setting. Overall, whether you're a surfer or simply a beachgoer seeking a beautiful, secluded destination, Lighthouse Beach in Seal Rocks offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and adventure.

Best for: 4WD, Long Beach Days, Surfing

Best Beaches South Coast NSW

1. Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa

If you're a surfer (or an aspiring surfer!), then 7 Mile Beach in Gerroa is definitely worth a visit. This beach is widely known as one of the best surf beaches in New South Wales, with consistent waves that are perfect for both beginners and advanced surfers. The beach features a long and wide stretch of sand, providing plenty of room for surfers to catch waves. There are several different sections of the beach that offer a variety of different waves, making it a versatile spot that can accommodate all levels of surfers. Additionally, the beach is surrounded by picturesque natural scenery, including rocky cliffs and rolling hills, which just adds to the whole experience! 

Best for: Beginner Surfing, Walks Along the Beach, Weekends Away

2. Depot Beach, Durras

Depot Beach boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters and an immaculate stretch of white sand. The surrounding natural landscape is equally stunning, with the beach being backed by dense eucalyptus forests and the nearby Murramarang National Park, offering beautiful trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. But it's the underwater world that really makes Depot Beach special, with fascinating underwater ecosystems to explore - it's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. For those looking for a peaceful, remote getaway, the nearby campgrounds offer a serene atmosphere surrounded by peaceful nature. One of the standout features of Depot Beach is its unspoiled, untouched feel, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the crowds and experience a truly idyllic beach paradise.

Best for: Escaping the Crowds, Snorkeling & Diving, Camping

3. Bendalong Beach, Shoalhaven

Bendalong Beach is a stunning destination that should be on any beach lover's bucket list. This beach offers clear, calm waters that are perfect for swimming, and a long stretch of sand for sunbathing (under your umbrella of course!) and relaxing with family or friends. Despite being within easy reach from Sydney, the beach has an uncrowded, unspoiled feel, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busier spots. Bendalong Beach is known for being beautiful, with crystal-clear blue waters, lush greenery, and even the occasional sighting of dolphins or whales. With campgrounds and other amenities nearby, Bendalong Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a serene, nature-filled getaway. On bigger swell days, you might even catch a nice mal wave or two!

Best for: Swimming, Relaxing, Calm Conditions 

Let us know what you think in the comments below! There's so much more to explore, but these ones aren't too far from our hometown of Sydney. Do you have any other favourites?