Dee Why Beach

Far less well-known among visitors than the travel guide darlings Bondi and Manly Beach, Dee Why is about 7km north of Manly along Sydney’s Pacific North Coast. This string of far less developed, infinitely less crowded yellow sand beaches from Manly to Palm Beach are known as Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Renowned among the international surfing community, the Northern Beaches are blessed with some of Sydney’s most reliable waves, ranging from more-decent-than-most to absolutely epic.

Overlooked by an iconic stand of Norfolk Island palm trees, Dee Why is one of the Northern Beaches more protected bays. When the swell isn’t too big, Dee Why’s small, rolling waves can be a bit of fun for swimmers and bodysurfers. Be warned though, when a decent southerly wind hits, Dee Why still gets far too gnarly for the inexperienced.

What makes Dee Why stand out is that it’s evolved into much more than a hardcore surfie hang-out. An altogether family-friendly destination, Dee Why features a 50m ocean pool and a grassy picnic area overlooking the surf.

Spectacular coastal scenery aside, Dee Why’s beachfront boasts a buzzing, cosmopolitan vibe. Opposite the beach you’ll find The Strand, a trendy strip of restaurants and eateries with an exceptionally friendly local vibe. You’ll find plenty of cafes open for an early breakfast when the ocean views are at their most sublime, while several restaurants stay open until well after the sun sets.

Adjacent to the northern end of Dee Why Beach, a short walk from the Surf Club, is Dee Why Lagoon. The lagoon and the wetlands surrounding it are an important wildlife refuge, particularly for local and migratory seabirds. From the lagoon, a boardwalk and pathway form a 5km one-way walking track up to Long Reef Headland. From the top you can enjoy magnificent 360 degree coastal views and possibly even humpback whale sightings between May and November.