Shelly Bay Beach
A charming beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for families, featuring a playground and snorkeling opportunities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil waters for swimming
Shelly Bay Beach
Best Time
Tranquil waters for swimming

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for families, featuring a playground and snorkeling opportunities.
"Great beach if you are looking to avoid tourists. The drop off is very gradual so this is a great spot for children to swim."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Broken glass has been reported, so water shoes are a smart precaution for a safe beach experience.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Zone
Ideal for kids with shallow water and a large playground nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shallow, Calm Waters
Perfect for families and beginner swimmers, the gradual drop-off makes it safe and fun for all ages.

Kid-Friendly Playground
Adjacent to the beach, a large playground offers entertainment for children, making it a great family outing.

Snorkeling Opportunities
Explore marine life in Cabbage Tree Bay, a protected marine reserve near Shelly Beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Conditions & Safety
Best Time to Visit for Calm Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Broken glass has been reported, so water shoes are a smart precaution for a safe beach experience.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Zone
Ideal for kids with shallow water and a large playground nearby.
🐠 Snorkel Cabbage Tree Bay
Discover marine life in this protected reserve adjacent to Shelly Beach.
🚗 Convenient Access
Close to bus stops, making it easy to reach without a car.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Broken glass has been reported, so water shoes are a smart precaution for a safe beach experience.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Zone
Ideal for kids with shallow water and a large playground nearby.
🐠 Snorkel Cabbage Tree Bay
Discover marine life in this protected reserve adjacent to Shelly Beach.
🚗 Convenient Access
Close to bus stops, making it easy to reach without a car.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shelly Bay Beach is praised for its calm, shallow waters ideal for families and its adjacent playground. However, some visitors have noted issues with debris like broken glass, impacting the overall beach experience.
"Quite dirty around the beach, convenient location close to bus stop and plenty of play areas though. Benches and shades but lots of kids usually."
Greg
"Gorgeous place…from the road! Went out of my way to come back to this beach and was highly disappointed by the broken glass all over the beach (and I don’t mean beach glass). I wasn’t prepared with water shoes that would stay on my feet in the water and didn’t trust not wearing something bc I didn’t want to chance stepping on glass, so we left just a few minutes after arriving to find a different beach. Was so looking forward to making a day of this place."
Jennifer Enderlin
"Great beach if you are looking to avoid tourists. The drop off is very gradual so this is a great spot for children to swim. There is also a nice playground for kids. The water is usually more calm on this side of the island than the South Shore beaches so this is a plus. Only downside is that the sand is not as fine as some of the other beaches."
Aman Darred
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shelly Bay Beach is conveniently located and accessible by bus, with stops nearby.
Some TikToks mention its proximity to other areas like Manly Beach in Sydney, suggesting good public transport links in those regions.Yes, it's generally easy to find, especially if you're looking for family-friendly spots or snorkeling locations.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, its proximity to bus stops suggests public transport is a favored option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shelly Bay Beach is a public beach, and there are no entrance fees to access it.
As a public beach, Shelly Bay Beach is open year-round, from sunrise to sunset.
No, tickets are not required for Shelly Bay Beach as it is a public access area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Shelly Bay Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters with a gradual drop-off, making it excellent for swimming, especially for children.
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling in Cabbage Tree Bay, and playing at the adjacent playground. It's also a great spot for a relaxed beach day.
Crowd levels can vary. It's generally less crowded than some other popular beaches, especially on weekdays.
However, it can attract families due to its amenities.While not explicitly detailed in all sources, the presence of playgrounds and benches suggests basic amenities are likely available.
The sand at Shelly Bay Beach is described as not as fine as some other beaches, but the overall charm and calm waters compensate for this.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Specific dining options directly on Shelly Bay Beach are not widely mentioned. It's advisable to pack your own snacks or explore nearby areas for eateries.
Yes, Shelly Bay Beach is a great spot for picnics, with benches and shaded areas available.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene waters, the adjacent playground, and the marine life if you're snorkeling. The coastal views from the road are also noted as gorgeous.
While not explicitly stated, drone photography might be possible, but always check local regulations before flying. The scenic coastal views offer great potential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing water shoes as a precaution against any unexpected debris like broken glass, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water with peace of mind. The convenience of nearby bus stops also makes it an accessible outing for families.
🐠 Beginner Snorkelers
While Shelly Bay itself is shallow, venturing slightly into Cabbage Tree Bay can provide a richer snorkeling experience. It's a great opportunity to build confidence in the water and discover the underwater world in a protected and accessible environment.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Remember to pack essentials like water shoes for safety and snacks for a picnic, as dedicated dining facilities might be limited. Enjoy the charming, less-crowded atmosphere and the beautiful coastal views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family-Friendly Fun at Shelly Bay Beach
Beyond the immediate beach area, the connection to Cricket Field and Fit Station adds to the recreational offerings. While the sand might not be as fine as some other beaches, the overall charm and the abundance of amenities for children make Shelly Bay a standout option for parents seeking a relaxed and enjoyable beach experience.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
While Shelly Bay itself is known for its calm, shallow waters suitable for beginners, Cabbage Tree Bay offers a slightly more immersive experience for those interested in exploring the underwater world. It's a great way to extend your visit and discover the natural beauty beneath the surface. Remember to check conditions and consider bringing appropriate gear for the best experience.
Navigating Potential Beach Hazards
Despite this drawback, the beach is still considered a great spot for avoiding crowds and enjoying the tranquil environment. The gradual drop-off and calm conditions remain major draws. By being prepared with appropriate footwear, visitors can mitigate the risks and still make the most of what Shelly Bay Beach has to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit