On the trail

Beaches and bites in sunny Sydney

PALM BEACH

This 1.5-mile curve of sand is one of the best beaches in Sydney for novice surfers. Grab a coffee from gourmet cafe The Boathouse then pick up a board from Palm Beach Watersports and head out into the waves. Or book a lesson — they cater for all ages and abilities.

CURL CURL

Drive on to Curl Curl, where even at weekends you’re likely to have much of the beach to yourself. Swim a few laps of the rock pool before tucking into the ultrahealthy fare at Cooh Cafe. Be warned, the courgette fritters sell out fast.

MANLY BEACH

Next up: Manly, which is a firm favourite with the locals. If the sun gets too much, check out the Cabbage Tree Bay EcoSculpture Walk or head to Bare Naked Bowls for a classic Aussie brunch.

Wind your way down the stunning Sydney coastline, fuelling up on classic Aussie bites along the way Words: Charlotte Wigram-Evans

ROSE BAY

Hidden between Point Piper and Rose Bay marinas, this beach has the added bonus of being dog friendly. Hire a kayak at Point Piper Kayak Centre or stroll to the Bagel Co — three generations of bakers have refined the art of creating the bagels in town.

BONDI BEACH

Head on to Australia’s most famous beach, where sand, sea and world-renowned surf are just a stone’s throw from the city. If you’re here around lunchtime, hit the farmers’ market for delicious sandwiches and juices before tucking into your provisions with the sand between your toes.

BRONTE BEACH

Bondi’s baby sister, Bronte, has all the coastal charm of its elder sibling, with a perfect crescent shape, grassy dunes and a rock pool for swimming. Thirsty?

Try the Golden State juice, with strawberry, mango, passion fruit and bee pollen at Cali Press, another Sydney institution.

COOGEE BEACH

Finally, end the day at Coogee, a beautiful sandy stretch backed by a promenade of historic buildings and manicured parklands. After one last dip, sit down to a rooftop dinner at the airy Coogee Pavilion, with views stretching out across the Pacific.