Here’s my curated list of LGBTQ+ friendly beaches in Sydney, including directions via public transport and taxi so you can plan a smooth and inclusive beach day:
🏖️ 1. Lady Jane Beach (Lady Bay Beach) – Watsons Bay
Vibe: Sydney’s best-known nude beach, popular with gay men and naturists. It’s small, secluded, and has a peaceful atmosphere.
How to get there:
- 🚌 Public Transport:
- Take a ferry from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay (20 min ride).
- Walk 5–10 minutes south along the path past Camp Cove Beach.
- 🚕 Taxi/Ride-share:
- 25–35 minutes from the CBD (~$35–$45 depending on traffic).
Notes: Clothing optional. Best during midweek or early weekends to avoid crowds.
🏳️🌈 2. North Bondi Beach (North end)
Vibe: Bondi itself isn’t officially an LGBTQ+ beach, but the northern end (near the grassy knoll) attracts a queer-friendly, diverse crowd — especially on sunny weekends.
How to get there:
- 🚌 Public Transport:
- Bus 333 or 380 from Circular Quay, Town Hall, or Bondi Junction to Bondi Beach (~30–40 min total).
- Walk 5 minutes north along the beach.
- 🚕 Taxi:
- 25 minutes from the city ($30–$40).
Notes: Not clothing optional. Great cafés and bars nearby.
🌈 3. Obelisk Beach – Mosman
Vibe: Quiet, clothing-optional beach in Sydney Harbour. It’s known as gay-friendly and often attracts couples and solo sunbathers.
How to get there:
- 🚌 Public Transport:
- Take a ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo Wharf (15 min).
- Walk ~20 min via Chowder Bay Road and Obelisk Beach walking track (some stairs).
- 🚕 Taxi:
- 25 minutes from the city ($35–$45).
Notes: More private than Lady Jane. Bring your own water/snacks.
🏝️ 4. Little Congwong Beach – La Perouse
Vibe: Gay-friendly and unofficially clothing-optional. Hidden and relaxed, with a mixed crowd.
How to get there:
- 🚌 Public Transport:
- Bus 394X from the city (or buses from Maroubra/Botany) to La Perouse Loop.
- Walk ~10 minutes down a trail from Congwong Beach.
- 🚕 Taxi:
- 40 minutes from CBD ($45–$55).
Notes: No facilities. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
☀️ 5. Tamarama Beach
Vibe: Not exclusively LGBTQ+, but popular with gay men — especially locals from the eastern suburbs. Often dubbed “Glamarama” for its chic vibe.
How to get there:
- 🚌 Public Transport:
- Bus 333 or 381 to Bondi and walk the Bondi to Coogee coastal path to Tamarama (10–15 mins).
- 🚕 Taxi:
- 25–30 minutes from the city ($30–$40).
Notes: Beautiful and photogenic. Waves can be rough — swim with care.
Map Links & Travel Tips:
- Google Maps: Search by beach name + “Sydney” to pin your trip or click on the link below.
- Opal Card or Contactless: All public transport options accept contactless credit cards or Opal cards.
- Pack light: Many beaches require walking trails or stairs, so wear good shoes and travel light.
🌈 Sydney LGBTQ+ Beaches Summary
| Beach | Marker Notes |
|---|---|
| Lady Jane Beach (Lady Bay Beach) | Ferry route from Circular Quay & walk directions |
| North Bondi Beach (North end) | Bus routes 333/380 and beach walk |
| Obelisk Beach | Ferry to Taronga Zoo Wharf + walking path |
| Little Congwong Beach | Bus 394X drop-off & trail access |
| Tamarama Beach | Bus via coastal path from Bondi |
🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
🔗 See Also
Amsterdam | Barcelona | Chicago | Cologne | Gran Canaria | Iceland | Lisbon | London | Madrid | Munich | Paris | Porto | Randstad | Sitges | Sydney | Washington DC