Parsley Bay Reserve Sydney
A tranquil Sydney harbor reserve with an enclosed beach, iconic footbridge, picnic spots, and walking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Parsley Bay Reserve Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Sydney harbor reserve with an enclosed beach, iconic footbridge, picnic spots, and walking trails.
"This tucked-away harbor beach is well-loved for its stunning foot bridge, enclosed swimming area, playground, shady trees."
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Street parking is limited; arrive early or consider public transport.
🧺 Pack a picnic basket
Bring your own food and drinks as on-site options are scarce.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enclosed Swimming Area
Parsley Bay
A safe, netted harbor beach perfect for a refreshing dip with stunning harbor views.
Iconic Footbridge
Over Parsley Bay
A picturesque, arched footbridge offering a charming photo opportunity and access to the reserve.
Shady Picnic Spots
Throughout the reserve
Lush green lawns and mature trees provide ideal locations for a relaxing picnic with family and friends.
Playground Fun
Near the beach
A well-equipped playground that keeps children entertained for hours, making it family-friendly.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Escape
Pack Smart for a Perfect Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Street parking is limited; arrive early or consider public transport.
🧺 Pack a picnic basket
Bring your own food and drinks as on-site options are scarce.
🩱 Don't forget your swimwear
The enclosed bay is perfect for a safe and scenic swim.
👟 Wear comfy walking shoes
Explore the trails and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Street parking is limited; arrive early or consider public transport.
🧺 Pack a picnic basket
Bring your own food and drinks as on-site options are scarce.
🩱 Don't forget your swimwear
The enclosed bay is perfect for a safe and scenic swim.
👟 Wear comfy walking shoes
Explore the trails and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
📸 Bridge photo op!
Capture the iconic footbridge – a must-have shot!
👨👩👧 Kid-friendly fun
The playground is a hit with children of all ages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Parsley Bay Reserve's tranquil beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, highlighting its safe swimming conditions and picturesque setting. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising it as a local gem perfect for picnics and relaxation.
"Parsley Bay Reserve is a somewhat secluded beach and grassed area. In order to get to it, there are some paths you need to walk down. The paths lead to an open area that has a spectacular view.
I liked the reserve for the range of things you could do here. Depending on the water quality, it could be a really good place to swim as the water doesn't get too deep straight away. It was calm and not wavy. There was also ample grass and natural shade to picnic, lay in, or play sport. I thought the reserve was family-friendly with a good patch of sand for children to play and make sandcastles. There was a playground with a range of equipment too.
The area is very pretty and I would recommend coming here."
Map Roy
"Located on Parsley Road, Vaucluse, New South Wales, Australia 🇦🇺
Parsley Bay Reserve is a Popular Family Park. It has an enclosed swimming area on the Sydney Harbour, it’s very popular because of its gentle waves allowing for easy swimming. Snorkelling is popular here also. It’s protected by a shark net and the water is quite shallow making it ideal swimming for children. Adjacent to the swimming area is a grassy area which is great for picnics and just relaxing and playing games such as frisbee 🥏. It’s popular for families and children. There are about six or so benches but they would be taken quickly if there’s a lot of people and a children’s playground. There’s some construction going on so the car park is closed until late 2026. You have to park up on the street and walk down to the reserve. There’s walking 🚶♂️ trails which includes a century old suspension footbridge that leads you on a 20 minute return circuit, straddles the bay overhead while swimmers enjoy the bay below. The walking trail leads you to the wharf at the mouth of the bay, well worth the walk. Dogs 🐕 are prohibited from the Reserve at all times. Because of the construction, the regular cafe is closed but there was a Pop-Up eatery van which serves really great food. I had the Peri Peri Chicken Burger and chips for $23.00. It was delicious 😋. Really liked it here, the swim 🏊 in the water was beautiful. Would definitely recommend. Thumbs Up! 👍👍👍👍"
Nerine Cummins
"Great place to swim with kids. The water might not be clear, but it was like a giant pool with natural wave. We enjoyed it, the seaweed was wonderfully ticklish when we swam over. Parking could be slightly tricky. The cafe has great variety."
Jane Kwan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parsley Bay Reserve is accessible by car, with limited street parking available. Public transport is also an option; take a bus towards Watsons Bay and enjoy a short walk. Some visitors recommend combining a visit with the Hermitage Foreshore Walk for a scenic route.
Yes, it's located in Vaucluse, an eastern suburb of Sydney. Look for signs directing you to the reserve.
Yes, buses run to nearby Watsons Bay, from where it's a pleasant walk to the reserve. Check Sydney's public transport planner for the best routes.
From Sydney CBD, you can take a bus towards Watsons Bay. The journey offers glimpses of the harbor and surrounding suburbs.
There is limited street parking available around the reserve. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Parsley Bay Reserve is a public park and is free to enter. You can enjoy its natural beauty and amenities without any cost.
Parsley Bay Reserve is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's a public space, so you can visit during daylight hours.
There's no need to book tickets as it's a free public reserve. You can simply show up and enjoy your visit.
As a public reserve, there are no specific entry restrictions, but standard rules for public parks apply, such as respecting the environment and other visitors.
While the reserve is a public space, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the scenery. It's typically closed after dark.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the enclosed bay, have a picnic, explore the walking trails, enjoy the playground, and take photos of the scenic footbridge. It's a great spot for relaxation and family fun. 
Yes, Parsley Bay features an enclosed harbor beach, making it a safe and calm spot for swimming, especially for families.
Absolutely! The reserve offers numerous shady spots perfect for picnics, with grassy areas and tables available.
It's very family-friendly! There's a great playground, and the enclosed swimming area is safe for children.
Yes, there are lovely walking trails that offer beautiful views of the harbor and surrounding bushland.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic footbridge is a must-capture. The enclosed bay with its calm waters and the surrounding lush greenery also make for beautiful shots.
While Parsley Bay faces west, offering lovely afternoon light, sunrise views might be better captured from other harbor vantage points. The golden hour light on the bridge and bay is stunning.
Drone usage in Sydney parks is regulated. Always check the latest CASA guidelines and local council rules before flying a drone.
Landscape, family, and lifestyle photography are very popular here, capturing the serene beach, the bridge, and people enjoying the outdoors.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to check with the local council if you plan a professional shoot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a generous picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas, and make a day of it. The reserve's natural beauty also offers a wonderful backdrop for family photos. Consider bringing along beach toys and floaties for extra fun in the water. The walking trails are generally easy enough for older children to navigate, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. It's a fantastic spot to escape the city and let the kids burn off some energy in a beautiful setting.
🚶♀️ Couples & Picnickers
+1 The picturesque footbridge offers a charming backdrop for photos, adding a touch of romance to your visit. After your picnic, take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails hand-in-hand, or enjoy a refreshing swim together in the calm waters of the bay. It’s a wonderful way to spend a quiet afternoon, away from the usual tourist crowds, experiencing a local Sydney favorite.
🏃♂️ Active Explorers & Walkers
Many visitors recommend linking your visit with the Hermitage Foreshore Walk, which provides a more extensive and rewarding hiking experience. For the adventurous, some locals even admit to jumping off the footbridge into the bay – though this is done at your own risk and not officially recommended!
The reserve itself provides a good opportunity for a brisk walk, followed by a rewarding swim to cool off. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Parsley Bay: More Than Just a Beach
Beyond the beach, the reserve boasts well-maintained walking trails that meander through native bushland, offering glimpses of the harbor and its natural beauty. These paths are ideal for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating walk. For families, the well-equipped playground is a major draw, ensuring that children have plenty of space to play and explore. The abundance of shady picnic spots scattered throughout the reserve makes it an ideal location for a relaxed family gathering or a romantic lunch.
+1Locals often recommend combining a visit to Parsley Bay with the nearby Hermitage Foreshore Walk, as they are in close proximity. This allows visitors to experience more of the stunning harbor foreshore and discover other beautiful spots like Nielsen Park. Parsley Bay Reserve truly offers a multifaceted experience, blending natural beauty with recreational opportunities for everyone to enjoy.
Making the Most of Your Parsley Bay Visit
Packing smart will significantly enhance your visit. Bring a fully stocked picnic basket with all your favorite foods and drinks, as on-site dining options are minimal. Don't forget your swimwear and towels for a dip in the bay, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore the trails. Sunscreen and hats are essential for protecting yourself from the Australian sun.
+1For those looking to extend their exploration, consider the Hermitage Foreshore Walk. This scenic route connects Parsley Bay with other beautiful harbor spots, offering a more comprehensive experience of Sydney's eastern suburbs. This combination is a local favorite for a reason, providing a full day of natural beauty and relaxation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit