- Shark Beach is reopening after almost three years
- It closed in early 2022 for seawall repairs, but work was delayed
- Now it has been redecorated and opened just in time for Christmas
- Read more: This dreamy beach has been voted the best in the country
A sparkling beach that travelers call Sydney’s ‘best hidden gem’ has reopened to the public after almost three years.
Shark Beach, also known as Nielsen Park, is located on the banks of the Vaucluse in the city’s leafy eastern suburbs.
It has been closed to all visitors since March 2022 after its 160-metre-long sea wall was damaged by flooding following a severe storm in 2016.
The new wall was expected to be completed by the end of 2022, but bad weather, construction delays, contract disputes and 3,600 tons of asbestos discovered in the old wall caused the project to take much longer.
It didn’t help that 2022 was Sydney’s wettest year on record.
NSW Parks and Wildlife faced a new hurdle at the last hour as issues with surface repairs to the concrete stands delayed the planned October 2024 opening again.
Now, with brand new raised planters, mature trees for shade along the lawn patio and a shiny new dining complex, Shark Beach is finally back in action.
And those who have visited the beloved spot agree it was worth the wait.
A sparkling beach that travelers call Sydney’s ‘best hidden gem’ has reopened to the public after almost three years
Shark Beach, also known as Nielsen Park, is located on the banks of the Vaucluse in the green eastern suburbs of the city
The beautiful beach is the ultimate summer getaway, offering the most picturesque locations in Sydney Harbor for picnics, swimming and walking.
Those put off by the ‘worrying’ name will be reassured when they see the enormous safety net that demarcates the turquoise swimming area. This has just been replaced and is in top condition.
The space features three large, sheltered picnic areas and extensive lawns, while the café is a popular place for parents to relax while their children play in the sand.
Nearby, visitors can also enjoy the 3.6km Hermitage Foreshore walking trail or explore by kayak.
For those who prefer a longer walk, Bottle and Glass Point is the winner.
Bill Drakopoulos, operator of The Nielsen hospitality complex, which also includes nearby cafe The Kiosk, said their focus is solely on attracting beachgoers rather than leaning too fancy.
‘The Kiosk is not a fancy restaurant. It’s like a bistro in a really cool pub, you order at the counter, there are maybe 100 seats [including] outside,” he told Good Food.
The complex also includes the chic ‘Pavilion’, an elegant event space, and The Beach Club, a more intimate event space split into two halves with direct access to the beach.
It has been closed to all visitors since March 2022 after its 160-metre sea wall was damaged by flooding following a severe storm in 2016
The resort-style gem is described as having an “eclectic coastal vibe” that’s perfect for relaxed gatherings.
The upper section of the Beach Club also features a private bar and outdoor terrace that is sure to be a big hit as the party season continues.
You can find out more about the new spaces on the NSW Parks and Wildlife website.