Sydney is famous for its stunning coastal walks, but while many flock to Bondi, the locals know a true gem lies in the city’s south. The Cronulla Coastal Walk offers breathtaking ocean views, dramatic rock formations, and a string of beautiful beaches without the overwhelming crowds. It’s a paradise for walkers, beach lovers, and of course, photographers.
Ready to level up your Instagram feed? Lace up your shoes, charge your phone, and let’s explore the seven most photogenic spots along this spectacular track. This is one of the best things to do in Cronulla for anyone with a camera and an eye for beauty.
1. The Golden Dunes of Wanda Beach
At the northern end of the walk, you’ll find the vast, rolling sand dunes of Wanda Beach. These aren’t your average sandhills; they create a stunning, almost desert-like landscape against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Photo Tip: Visit during the “golden hour” – the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. The low, soft light creates long, dramatic shadows and makes the sand glow. Use a person in your shot to give a sense of scale to the massive dunes.
2. The “CRONULLA” Sign at North Cronulla
Nothing says “I was here” quite like a photo with the iconic local sign. Just near the North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club, you’ll find large, white block letters spelling out “CRONULLA”. It’s a classic shot that captures the vibrant, sun-soaked surf culture of the area.
Photo Tip: Get low and shoot upwards to make the letters look monumental against a bright blue sky. It’s also a great spot for a group photo with friends.
3. The Dramatic South Cronulla Rock Pool
Carved into the rock shelf at the southern end of the main beach, the Cronulla Rock Pool is a masterpiece of coastal architecture. On a calm day, it’s a mirror reflecting the sky. On a rough day, it’s a dramatic stage for waves crashing over the walls, sending white water cascading into the pool.
Photo Tip: For a dreamy, ethereal look, use a long exposure (you may need an ND filter) to smooth out the water and create a misty effect. Sunrise is the perfect time to capture this spot, often with incredible colours in the sky.
4. The Winding Path at The Esplanade
Sometimes the journey is the destination. The paved path of The Esplanade itself offers endless photo opportunities. As it winds its way south from Cronulla Beach, it hugs the coastline, providing incredible leading lines for your photography.
Photo Tip: Frame your shot with the iconic Norfolk Island Pines on one side and the brilliant blue ocean on the other. The S-curves in the path are perfect for creating depth and drawing the viewer’s eye through your image.
5. The Serene Shelly Beach & Ocean Pool
A short stroll from the main drag, you’ll discover the tranquil oasis of Shelly Beach. This sheltered cove boasts a grassy park, a calm beach, and a beautiful ocean bath. The contrast between the lush green park, the golden sand, and the turquoise water is picture-perfect.
Photo Tip: Capture the reflection of the palm trees in the calm surface of the ocean pool. A drone shot here (following local regulations, of course!) can perfectly capture the layout of the park, beach, and pool.
6. The Unique Circle of Oak Park Rock Pool
Further along the path lies Oak Park and its perfectly circular rock pool. This is arguably one of the most unique and photogenic ocean pools in Sydney. The surrounding rock platforms and the 1930s pavilion add to its charm and character.
Photo Tip: The best vantage point is from the path above, looking down. This allows you to capture the pool’s perfect circular shape. It’s another fantastic spot for long-exposure photography at high tide.
7. The Panoramic Views from Bass and Flinders Point
You’ve reached the end of the main walk, and your reward is the spectacular, sweeping vista from Bass and Flinders Point. From this headland, you get a 180-degree view across the mouth of Port Hacking towards the dense green forests of the Royal National Park.
Photo Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to fit the entire majestic landscape into your frame. This is an unbeatable sunset spot, where you can watch boats sail by as the sky erupts in colour.
