For a more adventurous beach trek, take a drive about 34mi south of Sydney to check out Garie Beach. Located in the Royal National Park, Garie Beach is a great departure from the city’s usual spots, and requires a bit of hiking before you can relax. The sprawling beach is obviously fairly quiet, but rewards its guests with spectacular views.

Garie is surrounded by densely forested hills, but thanks to the Surf Life Saving clubhouse, you’ll still have access to toilets, changing facilities and even (cold) showers. Surf conditions are bodacious here, although these waves are best left to the more experienced tube-chasers as there are only lifeguard patrols 9am-5pm in December and January.