Sydney, Australia: where adventure meets the sea.
Fancy paddling past iconic landmarks or pristine beaches?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Sydney waiting just for you.
Embark on a thrilling journey through Sydney’s stunning waters. Ready to launch?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Sydney
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Rose Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Rose Bay Foreshore (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, sheltered bay, light breezes
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, fishes
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Sydney Harbour, city skyline
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Observe boating rules, avoid sailing areas
Rose Bay offers an idyllic, sheltered location for paddleboarding at the heart of Sydney Harbour.
Its calm waters provide a perfect paddling environment, while the glittering city skyline serves as a magnificent backdrop. Discover this stunning city from a unique perspective on the water.
#2 Manly Wharf
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Manly Wharf Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm harbor waters, ocean swells
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Manly Cove, Sydney Harbour National Park
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Beware of boat traffic, follow local regulations
Manly Wharf Beach is an excellent spot for paddleboarding, offering both harbor and ocean experiences.
Explore the tranquil waters of Manly Cove, discover the islands and coastline of Sydney Harbour National Park, or hit the open ocean for a more challenging adventure. With its range of options, Manly Wharf is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
#3 Narrabeen Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Berry Reserve (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected from wind
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, turtles, fish
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Coastal bushland, wetlands
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow local rules, stay vigilant of any potential hazards
Narrabeen Lake provides a serene environment for paddleboarding, surrounded by unspoiled bushland and wetlands.
Its sheltered waters make it an ideal location for beginners and those seeking a more relaxing experience, while its proximity to native wildlife offers a unique paddling experience amidst nature.
#4 Balmoral Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Beach
- 📍 Access Point: Balmoral Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, protected bay, occasional breezes
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Balmoral Island, middle harbor views
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Stick to designated zones, avoid swimming areas
Located in Sydney’s lower north shore, Balmoral Beach is a picturesque spot for paddleboarding.
Surrounded by the calm waters of the bay and offering scenic views of the Middle Harbor, Balmoral Beach presents an idyllic setting for a peaceful paddle. Enjoy gliding past the beautiful Balmoral Island and take in the stunning harbor views.
#5 Watsons Bay
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Watsons Bay Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm harbor waters, mild ocean swells
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, fish, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Sydney Harbor National Park, city skyline
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow local rules, be mindful of nearby swimming areas
Watsons Bay offers paddleboarders the ultimate combination of scenic views, calm waters, and lush national parks.
Glide through the protected bay, taking in the enchanting city skyline and Sydney Harbor National Park in the distance. With easy access and a wealth of nearby attractions, Watsons Bay is a must-visit paddleboarding destination.
#6 Shelly Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Shelly Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Protected cove, calm ocean conditions
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, occasional dolphins, sea turtles
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly Headland
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow marine reserve rules, use caution in surrounding ocean waters
Shelly Beach, a beautiful, sheltered cove tucked away in Cabbage Tree Bay, is an ideal paddleboarding spot for those seeking both stunning views and rich marine life.
Within the marine reserve, you’ll find an abundance of fish and even sea turtles swimming beneath your board. The protected beach creates a calm, peaceful paddling experience with the rugged Manly Headland forming an impressive backdrop.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Sydney?
Prime paddle boarding spots in Sydney include Manly Wharf, Rose Bay, Watsons Bay, and Balmoral Beach.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Sydney?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Sydney.
When is the best time to paddle board in Sydney?
The most suitable time for paddle boarding in Sydney is during the summer months, typically between December and February.
