You can access this stunning hidden beach via the Hermitage Foreshore Walk. Not keen to get your steps up? You can cut across the foreshore walk from the footpath that begins at Queens Avenue and links up to the walk right in front of the beach. It’s about a two minute walk from the road to the beach. While boats can access the beach quite easily from the harbour, those on foot do need to scale some rocks to access Queens Beach, which offers unparalleled views of Rose Bay, the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

If you want to escape the crowds, Milk Beach is an isolated little beach that sits within the Sydney Harbour National Park. Its clear waters make it a great spot for snorkelling or fishing. For those who don’t fancy a dip can enjoy the beach on a walk along the Hermitage Foreshore.

One of Sydney’s most hidden beaches, is truly a locals secret. Follow Wharf Road until you reach the Vaucluse Amateur Sailing Club, which is a dead end. Locate the narrow set of stairs beside the club house and head down them until you reach an unlocked gate. Pass through the gate and follow the narrow path along the wall until you reach Kutti Beach. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts. Trust us.

There’s no shortage of gorgeous beaches along the Hermitage Foreshore Walk to be uncovered and Hermit Beach is no different. The sandy bay has calm waters and gentle waves that lap at the shore and is the perfect spot for a dip for those with little ones in tow.

This little-known swim spot is a sweet reward for those who take on the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. Hidden among the cliffs between Clontarf and Grotto Point, the tiny cove is a welcomed respite for the hikers in the warmer months. Crystal blue waters are surrounded by native bushland and freestanding boulders and rocks. To access the beach, saltwater seekers will need to descend worn stairs from Oglivy Road. Once you reach the shores there’s hundreds of metres of reef and beach so there’s plenty of space for visitors, without feeling overcrowded.

Public access to this small beach at the tip of Point Piper can be found via a path next to the Prince Edward Yacht Club. There’s a jetty here for those who prefer a hard and dry surface to soak in the sun on. The water near the beach makes it perfect for kayaking and canoeing so you’ll often see keen paddlers setting off from Lady Martin’s Beach.

A slice of Europe in Sydney’s south, Salmon Haul Bay can be found within Cronulla’s Salmon Haul Reserve. To access the picture-perfect swim spot you’ll need to locate a pathway on the bend of Glaisher Parade or at the end of the cul-de-sac on Cowra Place. This pathway will lead to a steep staircase that will take you to the rocky shore of Salmon Haul Bay. The flat rocks that line the sandy shore make for the perfect spot for sunbathers and are reminiscent of the rocky beaches of Europe.

In addition to the stunning views of Sydney Harbour and protected crystal clear water on offer at Murray Rose Pool, the facilities here make this a perfect spot for families. There’s a pontoon for older kids who crave adventure and want to jump into the water, a kiosk if you don’t fancy packing food, toilets, showers and change room facilities, so you ensure sandy feet don’t transfer to the car.

This hidden spot encapsulates what makes Sydney such a special place to live. This secret, natural nook is where city, wilderness and sea come together – and it feels like it’s all yours. Surrounded by trees and scrub, a grassy park meets a tranquil, netted bay that’s perfect for young paddlers. There’s a basic kiosk for snacks and drinks, too.

Another beach that can be found along the Hermitage Foreshore Walk is Tingara Beach. It’s actually the third beach from the Rose Bay end of the trail, but it’s easily missed as it’s hidden below the trail. There’s no staircase from the walk to get to the sandy shore of this secret swim spot; instead you’ll have to follow a rough path with uneven steps. Once you reach Tingara Beach you’ll find a tiny crescent of sand that is no more than 20 metres long and feels worlds away from any overcrowded beach in the East.