Beach Getaways: The Best Kid-Friendly Coastal Towns Near Sydney

Sydney might have some amazing beaches, but if you’re looking for a quick getaway from the city to explore more family-friendly coastal destinations, you’re in luck! The surrounding areas offer plenty of beautiful beaches, calm waters, and charming coastal towns. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, enjoy water activities, or explore nature, here are the best coastal towns near Sydney that are just a short drive away.

Pack your sunscreen, beach towels, and some snacks, and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your family by the beach!

1. Kiama

• Distance from Sydney: 2-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Kiama, located on the South Coast of NSW, is a charming coastal town known for its natural beauty. The Kiama Blowhole is a must-see, and the calm waters of Bombo Beach are perfect for young kids to swim safely. Kiama is also great for nature walks, and kids can explore Kiama Harbour or enjoy a peaceful day at the Kiama Leisure Centre, which offers family-friendly amenities like a pool and playground.

• Family Tip: Take the kids to the Little Blowhole for a quieter and more intimate experience with nature, or explore nearby Minnamurra Rainforest for a family-friendly hike.

2. Jervis Bay

• Distance from Sydney: 2.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Jervis Bay is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Hyams Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches, offering calm and shallow waters perfect for young children to swim, paddle, or build sandcastles. The Booderee National Park is a great spot to take the kids for a nature walk and possibly spot some local wildlife. Kids will also love the opportunity to kayak or take a dolphin-watching cruise.

• Family Tip: Visit the Jervis Bay Marine Park and the Booderee Botanic Gardens for a full day of family fun in nature.

3. Huskisson

• Distance from Sydney: 2.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Huskisson, located near Jervis Bay, is a quaint seaside village that is perfect for families. The calm waters of Huskisson Beach are ideal for safe swimming, and there are plenty of family-friendly cafes and picnic spots nearby. You can take a relaxing ferry ride around the bay, or rent bikes and ride along the Bayside Cycle Path for some family adventure.

• Family Tip: Go on a whale watching tour during the right season or explore nearby Culburra Beach for more secluded family beach fun.

4. Batemans Bay

• Distance from Sydney: 3.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Batemans Bay is a wonderful destination for families with its laid-back vibe and wide, sandy beaches. Malua Bay and Surf Beach offer safe swimming conditions for kids, while Batemans Bay Marine Park is a great spot for snorkelling and wildlife watching. The town is also full of parks and play areas for kids to burn off some energy.

• Family Tip: Take the kids on a kayaking trip around the bay or visit Murramarang National Park for easy hiking trails and nature walks.

5. The Entrance

• Distance from Sydney: 1.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: The Entrance is a family-friendly coastal town perfect for a relaxing day by the beach. The patrolled beaches here are safe for kids to swim and play, and the family-friendly lakeside area offers plenty of playgrounds, walking tracks, and cafes. The local Pelican Feeding program is a unique experience that kids will love, and Norah Head offers calm waters ideal for families.

• Family Tip: Check out the The Entrance Boardwalk for easy strolling and nature watching, or visit Lake Tuggerah for a more secluded spot to enjoy water activities.

6. Port Stephens

• Distance from Sydney: 2.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Port Stephens is a beautiful destination for families, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. The calm waters of Anna Bay and Shoal Bay make it easy and safe for kids to swim, while Nelson Bay offers a range of family-friendly water sports, from stand-up paddleboarding to dolphin watching. The area is surrounded by bushland, making it perfect for nature walks and exploring.

• Family Tip: Take the kids on a dolphin-watching cruise, or visit Tilligerry Creek for a peaceful day surrounded by nature and wildlife.

7. Mollymook Beach

• Distance from Sydney: 3.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Mollymook Beach offers a more relaxed beach vibe, with calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. The beach is ideal for family beach picnics, and the Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club offers a safe environment for kids to enjoy the surf. There are also plenty of parks and nature reserves nearby for family walks and wildlife spotting.

• Family Tip: Visit Ulladulla Harbour for a family-friendly boating experience or check out the Mollymook Golf Club for a more relaxed family outing.

8. Ulladulla

• Distance from Sydney: 3.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Ulladulla is a wonderful family destination that combines stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. The patrolled beaches such as Racecourse Beach are great for swimming and surfing. For something more laid-back, visit Pigeon House Mountain for a scenic family-friendly hike, or explore the nearby Meroo National Park.

• Family Tip: Spend a day at Warden Head Reserve, where you can picnic by the ocean, explore the nearby lighthouse, and enjoy the coastal views.

9. Nelson Bay

• Distance from Sydney: 2.5-hour drive

• Why It’s Great for Kids: Nelson Bay, part of Port Stephens, is perfect for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. The calm waters of Shoal Bay and Little Beach are perfect for kids to swim in and play. Kids can also enjoy dolphin-watching tours, exploring Tomaree National Park, or visiting Fly Point for snorkelling and shallow-water activities.

• Family Tip: Don’t miss out on the Toboggan Hill Park for fun rides, or take a sunset cruise to see the breathtaking views of the bay.