Queenscliff sits at the northern headland of Sydney’s famous Manly Beach, where golden sand meets powerful ocean swells and rugged headlands. It’s well known in the surfing world for big offshore waves and “bomboras” — larger, hollow swells that can roll in beyond the breakers and challenge even experienced surfers. The dramatic headland and surrounding cliffs give this stretch a distinctive coastal character.
30876 Queenscliff Sunrise, Northern Beaches, NSW
Queenscliff Beach draws beachgoers and surfers alike with its mix of pounding surf, scenic outlooks, and cultural significance in Australia’s surf history. The northern end of the beach hosts a 50-metre rockpool nestled up against the cliffs, providing a classic old-school ocean swimming experience. A scenic cliff walk leads down from the headland to the shoreline and through the distinctive “worm tunnel” toward Freshwater Beach — a walk best enjoyed at low tide.
70196 Big Wave at Queenscliff, Northern Beaches, NSW
Whether you’re watching surfers take on the big breaks, taking a scenic stroll along the rock platforms, or relaxing by the ocean framed by headlands and cliffs, Queenscliff provides a vivid taste of Sydney’s coastal spirit and surf culture.