North
Cronulla.
Our pick for a day out with little kids. A big playground, a beautiful beach and plenty of places to eat, with just as much to enjoy if it’s only the two of you.
Bring the kids.
Make a day of it.
Dunningham Park is right behind the beach.
For us, this is the best park in Cronulla for little kids. There’s a huge playground with plenty to explore, and room around the park for bikes, scooters and a good run around.
The seating and picnic tables make it an easy place to settle in as a family. Bring a few snacks, find a spot and let the kids enjoy themselves. The beach is close enough to make a play, a picnic and a swim part of the same outing.
Everyone has something to do, all in one place. See council’s Dunningham Park information for the park and its facilities.
A towel on the sand.
An eye on the surf.
North Cronulla is a lovely place to spread out and enjoy the water. We rate the surfing here too, with The Alley at the southern end and the North Cronulla breaks giving surfers plenty to watch for.
The surf can get big, and the currents can run hard. Swim between the red and yellow flags while patrols are operating, and keep an eye on the kids. If there are no flags, choose another patrolled swimming spot.
Check council’s lifeguard hours before visiting. The local surfing guide has more on The Alley, a beach break at North Cronulla.
Coffee, lunch
or an ice cream.
Plenty of choice close to the sand.
There’s an excellent variety of cafés, restaurants and takeaway options around the beachfront. Whether you want a quick bite for the kids or a longer lunch together, it’s easy to find something that suits.
A convenience store across the road is handy for the little things you forgot. You can keep the outing simple, with food nearby and somewhere to sit when you’re ready for a break.
For a couple looking to chill, a coffee, a wander along the promenade and a towel on the sand make a lovely few hours. Do as much or as little as you feel like.
Come down
with us.
Take a look around North Cronulla with us. The beach, the park and the places to stop for a bite are all part of why we love a day here.
Come early.
Or take the train.
We find parking fills up quickly, especially on a lovely beach day. Arrive early if you want a nearby spot, and check the parking signs. Otherwise, we’d allow about ten minutes to walk from Cronulla Station, depending on your route and pace.
Toilets, showers and drinking water are nearby. South along the Esplanade, you’ll find the Cronulla ocean pools. They’re unpatrolled and change with the tide and swell, so assess conditions before getting in. Check council’s beach information and the pool information and maintenance dates when planning your visit.
For a longer wander, follow the coast north towards Elouera and Wanda, or head south to South Cronulla. There’s no rush to leave when everything you need is this close.
Through our lens.
The beach, the cafés and a few moments along the coast.
