Go-To HQ is craving a really relaxed and indulgent summer break. So we’re just gonna assume you are too. And once you close the laptop you might need some inspo on where to go and what to do. Consider this your guide to having a crackin’ time on home turf, specifically Sydney (the city we know best). Because not everyone is drinking hot cocoa by the fire in Banff. 

Sydney is home to some of the best beaches in the world. It’s just fact. But funnily enough we find ourselves going back to the same spot time and time again. Luckily, home for Go-To HQ is spread up and down the coastline, so we’ve got some hidden gems to share with you. If you haven’t had the pleasure of swimming at one or all of these beaches before, get busy exploring. 

“If you’ve got a carload of kids plus ALL THE GEAR, head to Warriewood, where the car park meets the beach, so you can (Mum Hack) unload directly from your boot onto the sand. No beach cart necessary. Once you’ve set up your, ahem Cool Cabana, why not leave the little ones with your partner and take a long luxurious solo walk by rounding the north end cliffs onto Mona Vale Beach. On your return, cool off with an ocean dip between the flags, before treating the groms to hot chips and ice lollies from the Surf Club cafe. And the best part, you can minimize the time for the inevitable tired-kid-post-beach-meltdowns because your car is right there when it's time to pack up. Too easy!” Aoife, Regulatory And Compliance Manager

“Loveliest beach award would have to go to Castle Rock on the Northern Beaches. It's hidden away down a fair few stairs and the perfect place to set up for the day with a few friends and a picnic. It has a bit of sand for sand lovers, a bit of rock for those who want to avoid the sand and lovely turquoise water! Best bit?? There's a man on a boat that pulls into the beach with ice cream every few hours!” Cynthia, Performance Marketing Lead

“Can't go past Milk Beach! A gorgeous little nook just north of Rose Bay overlooking the harbour. Perfect at sunset. Perfect for date night (or day). Perfect for a solo moment of self-care.” Gee, Ecommerce Specialist 

“I’ve been known to lecture people that Cronulla has the best beaches in Sydney, but it’s true. If you’re one for waves and ample space, park yourself anywhere along the stretches of sand from South Cronulla all the way up to Greenhills. If you hate sand (fair), venture to the hidden gem Salmon Haul. If you have a 4WD at your disposal, drive into Boat Harbour and set up camp for the day. And if you’re chasing a sunset swim, try Darook Park.” Georgia, Junior Brand Manager  

“A lesser-known beach (might even call it a bay, given the conditions are almost always calm) is Malabar, just south of Maroubra, backing onto Cromwell Park. You usually won't find large friend groups claiming valuable sand real estate for the day with eskies and bbqs and chairs galore, so you've got more room to admire the surroundings, take a dip without stressing about your phone being pinched, and really relax into that summer beach read you were gifted for Chrissy.” Maddie, Brand Content Executive

“Camp Cove is my favourite beach in Sydney without a doubt. Get there early to avoid the traffic and nab one of the limited parks and situate yourself on the northern end on the grassy knoll overlooking the water. Perfect for long lazy days with a book in hand and multiple dips to cool down, you can easily fuel at the Camp Cove kiosk with their top tier menu of freshly squeezed juices, excellent coffee, salads and sandwiches and my personal favourite - a lemon sorbet served in a lemon itself.” Nicole, PR And Partnerships Manager 

“North Curl Curl is a go-to for me and the family. Plenty of car parks, dog friendly (on one side of the beach) and a rock pool nearby for the little ones to enjoy safely too. The of course there’s the surf club for midday fuel - hot chips and ice creams. Always.” Susana, Quality Assurance Manager