Shelly
Beach.
A picnic in the shade, a swim with the kids and ice cream across the road. Shelly Beach is one of our favourite ways to spend a family day in Cronulla.
Bring the family.
Stay a while.
A picnic rug, a few snacks and an afternoon by the ocean.
For us, Shelly Beach is an ideal family picnic spot. There’s a big lawn, shady trees and a fenced playground, with the ocean pool just below. Everyone can enjoy the day their own way.
The younger kids have the playground, including a liberty swing, while older kids have room for a game on the grass. Bring a ball, settle into some shade and enjoy the view.
The free public barbecues and picnic shelters are shared on a first come, first served basis. Pack lunch or grab something across the road, then leave yourself time for a swim.
Swimmers on.
Take a dip.
The sandy beach slopes towards the ocean pool, with ramp access from the Esplanade. On a calm day, it’s a lovely place for a family swim.
We love having the picnic just above. Swim, dry off on the grass and head back when everyone’s ready.
The pool and beach are unpatrolled. Stay close to children and check conditions before swimming, as swell can wash over the walls. See council’s ocean pool information.
Lunch out?
Or chips on the grass?
Both sound pretty good to us.
We rate The Nuns’ Pool as one of the best places for lunch and coffee in Cronulla. It’s right across the road, so have a look if you fancy a sit-down meal. Check their current menu and bookings before visiting.
For something less fancy, Shelly Park Shop is perfect for burgers, chips and plenty of ice creams to keep the kids happy. Take lunch back to the grass and see who’s ready for another swim.
Of course, a picnic from home works just as well. We’d still leave a little room for an ice cream.
Spend some
time with us.
Come along for a look around Shelly Beach, the park and the pool. See why we’d happily settle in here for the afternoon.
Walk the coast.
Make a day of it.
We’d allow around 15 minutes to walk from Cronulla Station, depending on your route and pace. Follow the Esplanade for the coastal views, with extra time for photos or little legs.
There isn’t much parking directly in front of the park, but there’s street parking in the surrounding side streets. Check the signs and allow time to find a space.
If you feel like a longer walk, keep heading south towards Oak Park, Salmon Haul and Hungry Point. Or put the towels down and enjoy the afternoon right here.
Through our lens.
The park, the pool and a few moments along the coast.
