Athol Bay beach is a hidden, secluded harbour beach which you can only access by boat or by walking in through a bush track.
It is one of the very scenic spots along the Taronga Zoo - Balmoral hiking trail. The best thing about it is that you can swim in the calm water, while looking directly across the harbour to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The walking trail starts from the Taronga Zoo ferry wharf but if, like me, you have visited the zoo first, then you can just walk or drove down Bradley’s Head Road. Starting from the zoo’s main entrance (at the top), it was a quick a 15 minute downhill walk.
Look out for a large sign saying ‘Sydney Harbour National Park’ and ’Athol Hall’ (see photo below) and at this point, you follow the old, stone path down past Athol Hall to join the bush track.
It is a 5 - 10 minute stepped trail down to the beach (see photo). You'll pass a sign post along the way but you really can't wrong - just keep heading down to the water. It is very easy to get to (although it’s a steep hike back up the stairs).
This is a small, largely undiscovered beach, with a good stretch of sand, calm water and gently lapping waves.
On one side is large outcrop of rocks which fun for kids to scramble over. I sat for a while in a shady spot on one of the larger rocks, looking out across the harbour and reading a book.
On weekends, expect the bay to feel a bit busier as large boats will anchor just off the beach.
Anything you need, you will have to carry in with you as there are no facilities. Bring your own water, snacks, drinks and sunscreen.
NOTE: If you want a longer walk, the same trail will take you around the headland to Bradleys Head and from there you can continue on to Chowder Bay and Balmoral if you wish.