So, you wanna swim au naturel?
Well, you’re in luck because there are five legal nude beaches in NSW and three of them are within 30 minutes drive of Sydney CBD. Each of them has its own charm and they each come with slightly different rules (which I’ll go into).
The basic rules of nude beach etiquette, or of any nude beach in Sydney or NSW, is that you don’t stare, never take photos of people without asking and generally don’t wander past the naked beach boundary without putting some clothes back on.
One question that might be on your mind is will people be having sex on the beach? There’s a chance you might see some inappropriate behaviour but it’s definitely not legal.
Unfortunately some clothing optional beaches have had to close their designated areas due to obscene behaviour, but don’t be put off as you’re just as likely to find families, women and couples enjoying the nudist beaches in NSW.
Whether you’re a solo nudist, a long-time naturalist or just feel like going for a skinny dip, here are the five beaches in NSW where you can legally take a swim in the nude.
#5 Obelisk Beach
Chowder Bay Road, Mosman
Obelisk Beach is on the opposite side of Middle Head to Cobblers. It’s a teensy weensy beach that you can access via Chowder Bay Road and although it’s not exclusively for gay men, you’ll rarely find any women here.
Some people keep their swimmers on but there’s a fair share of nudity too. And rumour has it, there have been people arrested for doing illegal things in the bushes. You have been warned.
Distance from Sydney CBD 11.5km (25 mins drive)
#4 Lady Bay Beach
Watsons Bay, Sydney
Lady Bay is about a half hour drive from the CBD and a short bus ride from Bondi Beach. It’s easily accessible along a beautiful pathway upwards from Camp Cove where the view is spectacular. Yes, you can actually see the Harbour Bridge from here.
The sandy beach is short and slim and about half of the beach disappears at high tide so there’s not much room for a crowd – 20 people makes the beach seem too full. It’s usually frequented by old men and there are reviews that say it’s not particularly safe for women.
But if you feel like taking it all off and diving into the harbour, Lady Bay is in a beautiful spot.
Distance from Sydney CBD 11.5km (30 mins drive)
#3 Samurai Beach
545 Gan Gan Road, Port Stephens
Although it’s officially a nudist beach, Samurai is a long 3km stretch of sand and you’ll be side by side with plenty of clothed folk. Most of whom will be fishing or hanging out next to their 4WD. Which you’ll need to even get here.
Don’t have a 4WD? Park your car at the entrance and get ready for a workout. If you’re game to walk be prepared for a lactic acid meltdown in your thighs. No spin class even comes close. But the breathtaking beach is worth the effort.
There’s beach camping allowed at the north end and that’s where you’ll find most of the nude families and couples (the south end has more solo men). There’s no shade or toilets nearby so come prepared with water, sunblock and a hat. Weekdays (and winter weekdays in particular) are relatively quiet but during summer and weekends it can get busy.
Oh, and remember, watch out for people driving along the beach!
Distance from Sydney CBD 208km (2hrs 50 mins drive)
#2 Werrong Beach
Lady Wakehurst Drive, Otford Lookout, Royal National Park
Prepare yourself for the 30 minute hike along a steep path before you get here but once you do – wow! The ocean can be a bit hectic here so be mindful of the rip but feel free to undress and enjoy what is surely one of Australia’s best nudist beaches.
During the week it’s often deserted and yours might be the only footprints you’ll see. Remember to bring water as the closest amenities are a 2km trek back to the carpark – and then a drive into Otford or Stanwell Park.
Another way to get here is to catch the train from Central to Otford and simply tack on an extra 700 metres to the walk down.
Distance from Sydney CBD 60km (1hr 30 mins drive)
#1 Cobblers Beach
Middle Harbour Road, Mosman
This tiny little beach is host to the annual Sydney Skinny Dip but you can visit any day of the year and find friendly, happy locals enjoying the sun, sans clothes.
Cobblers has by far the best reputation for being a respectful, family friendly and female friendly beach where regular visitors will actually get rid of anyone being inappropriate.
To get there head towards Mosman and then it’s a short drive to the end of Middle Harbour Road. Or catch the 244 bus from Wynyard towards Chowder Bay and it’s just a 10 minute walk past The Barracks.
Distance from Sydney CBD 11.5km (25 mins drive)
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