Parsley Bay Beach is a sheltered harbour cove in Vaucluse, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Its calm swimming area sits below a cable suspension bridge, with sand, a grassy reserve and shady places to picnic. Families can make use of the playground, and a short bushland circuit passes native plants and water dragons; a small waterfall lies along the track. Come for a quieter swim, a walk or a relaxed afternoon by the water. A café and public toilets are also available.
The beach and bridge
Parsley Bay is a small inlet in Vaucluse, around 10 kilometres east of central Sydney. The cove is sheltered, and the sandy swimming area is protected by a net. The water is usually calm, making the beach a good choice for a relaxed swim or a family outing.
A cable suspension bridge crosses above the bay and links its two sides. From the bridge, you can look down over the water and the strip of sand. The jetty is another place to sit by the inlet, while the grassy reserve gives you room to spread out away from the shore.
Bushland, waterfall and family facilities
The bushland walking circuit takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Along the way, look out for water dragons among the native plants. The route also leads to a small waterfall. The surrounding reserve has shaded picnic spots and a playground, so a visit can include time on the sand as well as a walk.
Facilities at the beach include a café and public toilets. Showers are located at the accessible toilet. If you plan to bring food, pack a picnic as a backup, particularly during busy periods when café options may be limited.
Swimming, fishing and timing
Swimming is one of the main reasons to come. The bay’s sheltered position means the water is generally calm, and the sandy shore gives you a place to settle between dips. A 150-metre swim runs from the beach towards the net. Check the tide before heading to the rocks or exploring the overhangs around the cove.
The jetty and nearby waters are also used for fishing. Species recorded in the area include bream, yellowtail, leatherjacket and trevally; a fishing licence is required. Early morning or a rising tide is suggested for fishing. For photographs of the bridge and water, daytime around high tide is a useful time to visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Parsley Bay Beach?
It is in Vaucluse, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, around 10 kilometres east of central Sydney.
Is Parsley Bay Beach suitable for swimming?
The cove is sheltered and has calm water. A net protects the swimming area.
How long is the bushwalk at Parsley Bay?
The bushland circuit takes about 15 to 20 minutes and passes native plants and a small waterfall.
What facilities are at Parsley Bay Beach?
There is a café, public toilets, showers at the accessible toilet, a playground and a grassy reserve.
