Exploring Sydney from the water brings a totally different point of view. Not only will you come across different animals and plants, you’ll unlock a new sense of freedom and more places that it’s not possible to drive or hike to. Trust us, gentle, quiet waters with beautiful scenery is the perfect way to pass a day.
When choosing your spot to put in, it’s important to consider the tides and how long you plan to explore for. Certain areas take an hour of paddling before you get to the “good stuff”, whereas others you’ll be straight in amongst the mangroves and little waterways.
1. Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla
A put in spot that has it all! The bay sits between Bundeena and Cronulla, allowing you to paddle inland, out towards the ocean or explore in the bay itself. The waters are calm and protected, and there’s plenty to see too. It’s close to the Plow HQ so we might be a bit biased but we think it’s the best SUP spot near Sydney!
2. Narrabeen Lagoon
A popular spot but well worth exploring. This is perfect for young explorers and new paddlers. If you’re keen for a spot of lunch, there’s some food options on the lake front at the road end of the lagoon. That said, you can’t beat a picnic lunch in a hidden spot. If you have a companion who’d rather hop on their bike, there’s good mountain bike trails next to the lagoon too. Everyone’s a winner!
3. Malabar Beach
With lots of nooks and crannies to explore, it’s easy to while away a few hours at Malabar. The beach is well protected, surprisingly, it doesn’t usually get too busy either.
4. Hacking River near Audley Village, Royal National Park
Mangroves, little waterfalls, and peaceful waters. It’s the Royal National showing off some of its finest. This is better for a longer paddle. You need 2 hours plus to do it justice, and even then you’ll want more. Be sure to check out Muddy Creek on your way up/ back - the image below is from stopping up there on a stunner of a day out!
All Trails have a handy route for this one too: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/new-south-wales/hacking-river-via-grays-point
5. Chinamans Beach, Mosman
Paddling up from Chinamans you can head towards the spit or relax around the coastal areas for an easier day out. With crystal blue waters, the beach is popular on summer days which makes paddling off to explore even sweeter.
If you’re new to paddle boarding, or to the area, here are a few extra top tips for to keep you safe while kayaking:
- Paddle with a friend
- Always check the tides and weather
- Drink regularly - we find that with water around us we sometimes forget to actually drink, and there is little more dangerous than sun stroke
- Make sure you have a good dry bag for your essentials
- Wear a hat, ideally with a legionnaire
We know this blog is about paddleboarding spots but it wouldn’t be a Plow blog without reminding you to be sun safe. Melanoma is a significant cause of cancer among Australians, and those who enjoy watersports are at extra risk so remember your sunscreen, cover your skin and put a hat on. If you can choose a shady route when the UV is high, all the better!
