One of the most spectacular ways to explore the magnificent Woollahra Council coastline is on a kayak or stand up paddle board (SUP). There are some gorgeous secret spots that can be easily reached with a bit of paddling and the bonus of gaining some exercise while admiring the scenery. We’ve put together a list of our favourite kayaking and SUP spots so it’s time to start exploring our local waters. Most of these spots offer kayak and paddle board hire or you could, of course, bring your own.
1. Point Piper
Kayaking from the stretch of beach between the Point Piper Marina and Rose Bay Marina is perfect for beginners as you can paddle within the calm waters of the Bay and enjoy weaving amongst the moored boats. If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, you can hug the coast and head around Woollahra Point to the pristine Lady Martins Beach. Or head across Sydney Harbour to the secluded Queen Beach, part of the Hermitage Foreshore Trail, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and surrounds. Entry into the water from Bellamy Beach is easy and after your paddle, you can relax on the sand or the kids can have a play at Rose Bay Park.
Point Piper Kayak Centre hires out both kayaks (single and doubles) as well as stand up paddle boards.
Exploring the beautiful inner Harbour waters
2. Rushcutters Bay
A favourite way to explore the calm inner Harbour waters at Rushcutters Bay is on a kayak or SUP. It’s easy to hire a kayak, paddle board or even a trendy water bike from Rushcutters Bay Paddle Sports. The team are on hand to give you some tips about gorgeous spots to explore. You can even book a guided tour if you’re keen to have an expert lead the way. Once you have finished exploring the waters, you can park yourself in the lush gardens of McKell Park for a picnic. Or you can even adventure out to Clark Island which can only be reached by private vessel (including kayaks). The Island is peaceful and quiet and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has toilet and fresh water facilities. Just keep in mind that you need to pre-pay a $7 per person landing fee to NSW National Parks.
3. Rose Bay
The harbour waters of Rose Bay Marina offer the most perfect kayaking conditions – calm waters, hassle-free ocean entry and glorious views. Rose Bay Aquatic Hire, based on the beach at Tingira Memorial Park, will equip you with a kayak or paddle board to start exploring the surroundings. If you’re in the mood for a more relaxing experience, you can just stay in the Bay paddling around the moored boats or meander slowly along the coast.
But if you’re keen to adventure further, we suggest kayaking to Shark Island(Boowambillee) which is situated one kilometre from the beach. This quaint island is the perfect spot for a picnic and offers perfect 360-degrees views of the most spectacular Sydney scenery. Be aware though that you need to pre-pay a $7 per person landing fee to NSW National Parks.
Stand up paddle boarding in Rose Bay Marina
4. Double Bay
If you have your own kayak or SUP, head straight for Double Bay Beach and enjoy a relaxing paddle in the calm waters. The beach is not big and it doesn’t get overly busy so it’s the perfect spot if you’re a beginner or if you have young kids who are keen to paddle. You could stay in the shallow waters or hop in and out of the kayak and chill out on the sand. There is a kiosk nearby for refreshments and Steyne Parkplayground is a few steps away.
If you’re keen to adventure out a bit further, you can paddle around to the magnificent Murray Rose Pool, a popular harbourside tidal enclosure with a spectacular outlook across Double Bay.
The best way to visit Murray Rose Pool is on a kayak
5. Watsons Bay
Watsons Bay boasts calm waters in the most beautiful setting and is the perfect spot for paddling. At WATSSUP, on the beachfront near Robertson Park, you can get SUP lessons, join in a SUP fitness session or even book a Kids Stand Up Paddle Boarding party! It’s the best way to hone your skills so you can paddle independently. If you’ve got your own board, head to Camp Cove Beach, which is one of our favourite spots to paddle. The waves are mild and the water is calm, shallow and sheltered.
Paddling with a view at Camp Cove Beach
When you’re heading out into the water for a paddle or kayak, please remember to stay sun smart and wear a life jacket. More paddling safety tips are here.
So whether you’ve got your own kayak or if you need to hire one, we hope we’ve given you some inspiration and ideas to start paddling and enjoy exploring the waters near you.
For more information www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au
