Snuggled between Bondi and Bronte, Tamarama Beach is a great spot to visit. Whilst it is not known for its swimming conditions, it does have a lot to offer including a great playground, cafe and grassed area. Interestingly, it is thought that Tamarama is probably a derivation of the Aboriginal name 'Gamma Gamma'.
Tamarama Beach
We headed here on a week day on what turned out to be a bit of a gray and dreary one unfortunately. However, it worked in our favour as we easily nabbed a car park and there was barely a soul there.
The facilities here are excellent and really what sets this park apart. There is a
playground that is modern and well maintained. It has swings, a climbing frame and slide. It has shade covers which extend across the playground (with just the one being up the day we were there).
The Playground
There are quite a few covered
tables, some that face the beach and some that face the playground. Or if you prefer there is plenty of open grassed areas just looking for a picnic blanket! To complete the beach day package, there are also quite a few
BBQ's, bins and a bubbler.
BBQ and Picnic Tables
To the right of the beach is a short walk (over a storm drain) which gives a great view out into the ocean and you can admire the huge rock walls that surround the beach and park.
Wave Watching
There is a fantastic
toilet block (quite seriously I think one of the best I've seen in a park) which is open between 6:30am and sunset, seven days a week.
There is also a
cafe, Tama Cafe, which was unfortunately not open when we were there. The Cafe serves up all the usual fare including coffee, gourmet sandwiches, salads and drinks as well as other beach essentials including sunhats and beach umbrellas. There are normally chairs set out in front of the cafe, so you can sit and enjoy a coffee and some quite spectacular views.
A Pretty Swanky Loo Block!
While you are here make sure you head off and enjoy a bit of the Coast Walk. We walked up to the right of the park towards Bronte. The views are pretty special and the walk was easy. It is paved so is pram friendly, although depending which way you head out of Tamarama you may encounter stairs.
View From the Coast Walk
View of Park from the Coast Walk
Please note I recommend this spot as great for a picnic, but please be aware that the beach is not the best for swimming - one or two rip currents are always present here and it is known to be the most dangerous patrolled beach in New South Wales. Consider carefully before heading out into the surf, especially with kids and head all directions of the Life Savers (Life Savers are present September through April). The beach is however a lovely place for kids to build sandcastles and play in.
Although we were lucky with the parking, I imagine that weekends would be very busy here so consider this as part of your plans for the day.
Access to the park and beach is down a paved driveway, which is easily navigated with a pram or wheelchair. There are change rooms, showers and a baby change area.
No alcohol or dogs permitted.
