This is one of the jewels of Sydney’s beach scene and you can easily see why. Balmoral Beach is as expansive as most of the city’s ocean beaches, but its harbourside position means it’s shielded from winds and big waves, so the calm waters provide a sheltered swimming enclosure and lovely picnic spots.
You won’t be bored here, there are enough attractions to keep you occupied the whole day including snorkelling, kayaking and sailing. Learn to sail with Balmoral Sailing School or simply hire kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the sheltered bay. Scuba diving tours are also available.
The Sydney Harbour National Park is a great spot to go on one of the area’s many foreshore trails. The Balmoral Beach to Middle Head track introduces you to colonial fortifications and stunning views of The Heads – the harbour’s entrance, and you can also walk along the foreshore to Taronga Zoo.
Nearby is Sirius Cove, named after the First Fleet flagship and one of Sydney’s well-kept secrets with a charming beach and reserve. The cove is culturally significant – artists Arthur Streeton and Tom Roberts camped on the eastern side at various times in late 1800s and painted some great works here.
The heritage-listed Bathers’ Pavilion is adjacent to the beach. Built in the late 1920s, it has recently had a multi-million dollar renovation and is home to an acclaimed fine dining restaurant complete with chef’s table for 12, a more casual bistro plus a deluxe rooftop champagne bar.
The Boathouse Balmoral Beach is also right on the water and is a more casual option, but be prepared to queue. There’s a reason that people are happy to line up for takeaway fish ‘n chips at Bottom of the Harbour Seafoods. You can also BYO picnic hamper and relax in the pretty parklands next to the beach.
Fares Info
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Single ticket fares between Balmoral Beach and one destination from the list below.
Tickets can be purchased from one of our ticket offices at Circular Quay Wharf 2 , 5 & 6, Darling Harbour Pier 26 Shop 2b and Manly Wharf 2 or onboard the vessel.
Destination Adult Child Manly $8.00 $6.00 Watsons Bay
$8.00 $6.00 -
OpalPay fares between Balmoral Beach and one destination from the list below.
Destination Adult Child Manly $8.00 $6.00 Watsons Bay
$8.00 $6.00