Washaway Beach

Washaway Beach faces east into Sydney Harbour with superb views across to Balmoral and the Manley Ferry coming and going. After a storm, the sand really does get washed away, exposing the rocky slab beneath! At other times it boasts a 200m stretch of sand and waves usually 0.5m or more, depending on the outside swell.

At high tide you may have to sunbathe on the rocks. Not surprisingly, this remote beach does not have any lifeguards or amenities, but that’s part of the attraction. Formerly a nudist beach, some visitors still consider it clothing-optional and good for skinny-dipping - although signs suggest otherwise!

Located on the east side of Grotto Point with its landmark lighthouse, Washaway Beach is accessed from a track off Cutler Road near the Lookout. The walk takes about 5 minutes and passes some Aboriginal rock engravings on the way. The track is part of the 20km Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Trail.

The beach itself is part of Grotto Point Reserve and access requires a steep climb down the 20m sandstone cliffs at the north end of the beach.