Of all the rock pools wedged between the city and the mighty Pacific, Mahon is the most adrenaline conducive. It's set at the base of the Jack Vanny Reserve along Maroubra Beach. From Maroubra's northern clifftops it's hard to spot, but make your way down the staircase from the Marine Parade carpark and you'll soon spy it among the exposed rocky outcrops.

While Bondi claims the fame, this 1.1 kilometre bay with a world-famous wave culture is the OG home of Surfing NSW. Beyond the thundering waves favoured by the likes of Kelly Slater, the Bra is hemmed by windswept dunes, wild bushland and a rocky headland – yet is close to many eating and drinking options.