Parsley Bay Beach

#sydneytrip Deep in leafy, well-heeled Vaucluse, Parsley Bay is a narrow Sydney Harbour inlet surrounded by caves, rock overhangs and dense native vegetation. Since 1906 it’s been officially reserved for the enjoyment of the public, with the cable suspension bridge added in 1910 and the current kiosk built in 1929. It’s a fantastic swimming spot, with a path along one edge from shore to shark net, that has a fancy wooden-stepped ladder halfway along and ramp access at the far end. These enable you to enter the bay where the water is cleanest, clearest and deepest, away from the leaf litter and debris that hugs the shore. And its so clear out there! You can see every detail on the sea floor and the fishes that seem to like to follow you. There’s great entertainment to be had in watching the local kids (illegally) jumping from the bridge, while large family groups hold picnics and parties in the beachside parklands. The kiosk is very eastern suburbs, serving some far fancier fare alongside the usual bacon and egg rolls. Parking is limited in the little parking area so we chose a nearby street near one of the paths that lead you here. Just cruise around the perimeter to find the blue signs. This is a good one and we’ll probably return, next time with snorkeling gear and inflatables.