Clontarf Reserve

Clontarf Reserve sits on Sandy Bay Road at Clontarf, on the shores of Middle Harbour near Manly on Sydney's northern beaches. A lovely harbourside reserve with a sheltered beach, it's a much-loved family destination — combining calm, netted swimming waters with grassy picnic and barbecue areas, a playground and lovely views across the harbour.

The appeal is that combination of safe, sheltered swimming and relaxed parkland: the calm harbour beach is perfect for families and young children, while the lawns, picnic spots and the Spit to Manly walk passing nearby make it a versatile day out. It's a peaceful, scenic alternative to the ocean beaches.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 1,500 reviews, it's a firm favourite. The reserve is free and open, but facilities, the swimming area and parking vary, and it gets busy on warm weekends and over summer, so it's worth checking conditions before you go — and taking sun protection and arriving early for a good picnic spot, while enjoying one of the harbour's loveliest family beaches.