Nielsen Park
Steele Point Road, Vaucluse, Sydney, New South Wales, 2030
Located in Vaucluse, in eastern Sydney, Nielsen Park is a year-round outdoor recreation destination. Part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, it offers a beach, large expanses of lawn, plenty of shade, a promenade, sheltered picnic areas, a food kiosk, and wonderful harbor views. It’s particularly popular among families with kids.
The basics
Soak up the sun at Shark Beach. It’s relatively protected with minimal waves and has a shark net in place over the summer, so it’s also a popular swimming spot. Pack a picnic to enjoy, or grab some food at the Nielsen Park Kiosk. To work up an appetite, stroll along the promenade, the scenic Hermitage Foreshore Walk, or explore the area on a kayak. There’s also a small cave system on the southern end of the beach where you can find Aboriginal cave art.
It’s easy to visit Nielsen Park independently. If you plan on sightseeing in Sydney, opt for a guided tour that stops at the park along with other popular attractions such as Bondi Beach and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. A private tour will allow you to fully customize your itinerary.
Things to know before you go
- It’s free to access Nielsen Park.
- The beach is not patrolled and can sometimes have strong rip tides and currents.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and towels if you plan to enjoy the beach.
- Amenities include restrooms and changing rooms.
- Parts of the park are wheelchair-accessible, including the beach promenade.
How to get there
Parking can be difficult to find around Nielsen Park, so it’s best to take public transportation. The #325 bus from Edgecliff stops nearby. You can also take a ferry from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay or Rose Bay, and then walk or take a taxi to the park.
When to get there
Nielsen Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It can be a very popular spot on the weekends, especially during the summer high season. Visit during the week outside of high season to escape the crowds.
Rose Bay to Watsons Bay Walk
The Rose Bay to Watsons Bay Walk is one of the most scenic coastal walks within the Sydney Harbour National Park, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor. Spanning 5 miles (8 kilometers), the walk takes you past a number of secluded beaches, parks, and scenic bays. The Hermitage Foreshore Walk between Shark Beach and Bayview Hill Road forms a 1.1-mile (1.8-kilometer) section of the walk.
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