Discover NSW's best hidden beaches

Fingal Beach, Port Stephens

Despite Port Stephens being home to 26 stunning beaches, Fingal Beach is on a whole other level. With kilometres of golden sand and plenty of quiet spots along its length, it's surprising how few people seem to head here in summer. You can even make a day of it and trek further up the headland to Box Beach, Wreck Beach or Zenith Beach to find your perfect spot. Really, there's no better place to spend your morning swimming, surfing or dolphin spotting in the dolphin-watching capital of Australia. You can enjoy the calm waters and the relaxed atmosphere of Port Stephens with a stay at secluded YHA Port Stephens - perfect for a weekend getaway.

Horseshoe Beach, Newcastle

Two words for you: Dog. Friendly. One of the only dog-friendly beaches in Newcastle, this may not be the most isolated spot on the east coast, but it's a real hidden gem for anyone with a canine companion. Horseshoe is a gorgeously long stretch of sand, so there's plenty of space to stretch your legs, let your hair down and play fetch (optionally: with your dog). Bring your four-legged friend down to the water to make some new friends, and wander back up to your lodging at YHA Newcastle Beach and make some there. 

Cosy Corner (Tallow's Beach), Byron Bay

Image: Destination NSW

This baby is just as cute and warm as the name implies! At the very end of Tallow Beach, this little spot is protected from northerly winds producing ideal surf conditions. Roll out your towel onto the sand, get comfy on the beach and watch the hang-gliders swooping from overhead, or head into the water for an incredible surf!

If you still gotta learn to catch a wave, or forgotten your board - YHA Cape Byron and YHA Byron Bay have your back! They've got board hire and know the best in town for surf lessons, and dedicated surf camps to get you throwing shakas and talkin' bout breaks in no time.

Moonee Beach, NSW North Coast

Image: Destination NSW

Located a little north of tourist hotspot Coffs Harbour, Moonee Beach is a beautiful change of pace, and you can expect to meet some of our favourite marsupials on the amusingly named Look at me Now Headland, if you show up during dawn or dusk. Moonee Beach is a great stop off on your way between Port Stephens and Byron Bay — though your head may be turned by the dozens of other dazzling sand swathes nearby. 

At Moonee (not to be confused with another Moonee Beach south of Newcastle), hang out with some 'roos or relax in the shallow waters, perfect for the not-so-confident swimmer, or little ones. There's a cafe, takeaway and a playground, so pack just what you need, and you can pick up the rest when you get there!

Resolute Beach, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

Image: Destination NSW

If you're looking for secluded, you can't beat Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. Resolute Beach and nearby West Head beach offer gorgeous views of the Palm Beach headland, and they're as secluded and tranquil as you can possibly get.

Speaking of secluded, YHA Pittwater Eco is only accessible by ferry, and if you're really wanting some quality alone time, you can book the YHA for exclusive use. Kayak out into the calm waters to clear your head, or relax in the hammocks with water views. There's plenty of beach around, so you'll be sure to find a spot to call your own and get comfy!