Balmoral

The Basics

Some Sydney sightseeing cruises pass by Balmoral before looping past scenic waterside attractions such as Watsons Bay, Middle Head, and Point Piper—most tours include a seafood lunch onboard or at a waterfront eatery. Balmoral also typically features on the itineraries of northern shore excursions that visit off-the-beaten-path spots.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Most of the sidewalks and promenades in Balmoral are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• The village’s main beaches are Balmoral and Edwards, which are separated by a rocky point but linked by the shoplined esplanade.

How to Get There

As parking in Balmoral can be expensive, public transit is often the cheapest (and easiest) way to reach the village. Take bus 244 or 247 to Military Road Mosman. Or, hop on bus 238 to Taronga Wharf, then catch a ferry downtown.

When to Get There

To enjoy temperate weather and avoid the school holiday crowds, visit Balmoral in October, November, February, or March.

Walking the Taronga to Balmoral Route

The Taronga to Balmoral route offers a crowd-free alternative to the Coogee to Bondi Beach walk while still packing a punch in terms of coastal scenery. The 4-mile (6.5-kilometer) trail meanders past historic sights and pristine, secluded bays. To get to the starting point, take the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo.

What water sports activities are available in Balmoral, Sydney?

Besides swimming at Balmoral Beach and the Balmoral Baths, visitors to this Lower North Shore suburb of Sydney can enjoy various water sports activities. Along the beach, you can find services that rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and boats to take out into Middle Harbour.

What is Balmoral in Sydney best known for?

In the north of Sydney, Balmoral is best known for its twin beaches, Balmoral and Edwards, and the Balmoral Bathers’ Pavilion. The pavilion is from the 1920s and is heritage–listed as an excellent example of Australian beachfront pavilions, even though it now only serves as an upscale restaurant.

What dining options have a beach view at Balmoral in Sydney?

There are several restaurants located along the waterfront of Balmoral, Sydney. Three establishments where you can dine with views of the beach at Balmoral are the historic Bathers' Pavilion, which offers both a restaurant and a more casual cafe, and two venues by the Balmoral Baths, the Public Dining Room and the Boathouse Balmoral Beach.

Is there free parking at Balmoral in Sydney?

Yes, there is free parking in Balmoral, with many streets around the suburb providing free 2–hour parking. However, you will have to pay for longer parking or to park right on Balmoral’s waterfront. There are also accessible parking bays at intermittent points along the waterfront.

What are the best spots for birdwatching near Balmoral, Sydney?

Tourists interested in birdwatching will find plenty of opportunities to spot local birds around Balmoral. It’s pretty common to spot birds such as cockatoos and lorikeets around Balmoral Beach and fairy wrens over at Middle Head. Spit West Reserve to the north of Balmoral is also well-known for bird watching.

Are there any historical landmarks or heritage walks in Balmoral?

Yes, there is a self-guided heritage walk through Balmoral that you can get from the Mosman Council website. The walk takes you along the waterfront of Balmoral Beach and Edwards Beach, stopping at local historical landmarks such as the Bathers’ Pavilion and the Tram Shed. Another historical landmark near Balmoral is the Middle Head Fortifications, built in the 19th century to defend Sydney Harbour.