Wander down the lane off Wolseley Road, Point Piper (near the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club), and you’ll be greeted by the sparkling waters of Lady Martins Beach. Not only is the beach peaceful, but the uninterrupted views of the harbour and palatial mansions will remind you of just how lucky you are to live in Sydney.

Tucked away on the harbour side of Manly, Collins Flat Beach is an idyllic spot that offers sprawling skyline views and a ton of privacy. It’s accessible only via water or walking trails, and is the kind of place that prompts Instagram posts captioned with, “How’s the serenity?” And serene it is. The water is calm and shallow, and the beach is quiet most of the time. Our advice? Pack a picnic hamper and head to this hidden beach with the person you care about most, #romance.

Looking at the white sand and lake-like still waters, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in the Whitsundays. Nestled between the harbour side of Manly Cove and Fairlight Beach, you could easily miss Delwood but this secluded slice of paradise, which is framed by two tall Norfolk Island Pine trees, is well worth a visit. Perch on the grass for an afternoon picnic in the shade or wander down to the pristine waters for a dip.

Local and international crowds flock to Palm Beach (aka Summer Bay thanks to Home and Away) so its next-door neighbour, Whale Beach, is usually overlooked. Named after the whales that can often be spotted on its horizon, this stunning spot, which boasts excellent surf conditions and bright yellow sand, is well worth a visit.

Set on Sydney Harbour and hidden from the main drag, this is one of the best beaches for locals and Sydneysiders alike. The picture-perfect setting at Whiting Beach lends itself well to sunbathing, swimming and photos. Pack a picnic because when the sun is out, this is the spot to be for the whole day.

Situated in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Resolute Beach is a hidden gem that is only accessible by foot or boat. The gorgeous beach is surrounded by natural bushland and clear blue waters you'll immediately want to jump into.

Perched between South Head and Camp Cove, this tiny beach is one of the best secret beaches on Sydney’s coastline – and that’s a pretty big call! It boasts stunning views of the harbour and skyline, and the water is gentle and inviting. Oh, and cossies are completely optional: Lady Bay Beach is a designated nude bathing area, so feel free to strip down before you splash away.

If you’re after a secluded beach with decent-sized waves, head to Bungan Beach in Newport. Just take your time walking down the steep private driveway (on Myolda Road), as that’s the only way in. When you reach the Bungan SLSC clubhouse, you’re there. The beach is only 600m long, but spectacular thanks to the sandstone cliffs that loom on either side.

Nestled between Clontarf and Balgowlah lies this picturesque harbour beach in the Sydney Harbour National Park. This secluded haven is surrounded by cliffs and bushland, offering a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city. But it's the unique rocky outcrops around the beach that make for amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities.

Next time you’re heading Vaucluse way, skip the popular Nielsen Park and stop at Parsley Bay instead. This local gem is as pretty as a postcard, with crystal clear water, a waterfall and a wooden bridge harking back to the 1920s. Given its location at the very tip of the eastern suburbs, Parsley Bay doesn’t attract the kind of crowds that neighbouring beaches do. It mostly appeals to locals going for their daily dip – and now you can join them!