Clovelly Beach - great for families
Clovelly beach is not for surfers, being a calm bay and a drawcard for families and people who like to get up close and personal with sea life.
In the Eastern suburbs, Clovelly is a deep and narrow beach popular with people who like scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing. You may even be lucky and see some dolphins entering the bay.
The more adventurous swimmers go out of the bay into the deeper ocean but this is recommended only for strong swimmers. But, if you get into trouble, help is at hand with the proud members of the Clovelly Surf Lifesaving Club patrolling ”the beach that never closes”.
There are rocks in the shallows which can be a nuisance for those who prefer to swim or paddle close to shore. Occasionally the sea can be rough, bringing in more waves than normal into the bay so the pool in the cemented pavement near the beach is a good alternative.
When swimming close to shore, be aware that the depth of the beach can change suddenly, especially where the rocks end. You can go from being waist deep to being over your head in no time.
Likewise, rock fishermen need to be watchful of sudden large, killer waves. Generally, rock fishing at any beach is recommended only for the experienced angler who takes proper precautions and moves on at the slightest change in conditions. Many inexperienced rock fishermen have been swept to their deaths by a giant wave which has seemingly come from nowhere.
An amazing feature of Clovelly beach is the free parking – a rarity at a Sydney beach.
When it comes to taking a break from the sand for something to eat, there is a thriving cafe called Seasalt which has received some good reviews. It has one of the best ocean views in Sydney, with many diners coming to Clovelly for the restaurant experience alone, rather than for the beach.
On the corner of Victory St and Clovelly Rds, Seasalt offers a reasonably priced menu for breakfast and lunch, open Mondays to Fridays 9am to 3.30pm and Saturdays/Sundays 8.30am to 4pm. Details on 9664 5344.
Then there is that great Australian stalwart – the pub. Clovelly Hotel is within stumbling distance from the beach and has a grassed beer garden for the children to play. Many Sydney hotels think of drinkers with young children and provide an outside area where they can romp while their parents enjoy a cooling ale or two.
For those who like licensed clubs, with cheaper meals and laid-back atmosphere, there is the Clovelly RSL Club in Clovelly Rd.
Getting there: Take the bus 339 from Wynyard or Central railway stations direct to Clovelly beach.
Picture by Wikipedia
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