From calm-water paddling and historic ferry rides to secret snorkeling reefs and wood-fired pizza, here is your essential blueprint for an unforgettable family weekend in Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire.

1. Stand-up paddleboarding on Gunnamatta Bay
Trade the surf for the mirror-like waters of Gunnamatta Bay, where flat, calm conditions make stand-up paddleboarding accessible for first-timers. Cronulla SUP, a family-owned business operating since 2009, runs lessons and board hire at the bay’s northern end. Cool off in the netted swimming enclosure, followed by fish and chips from the takeaway window at Bennys Cronulla. It’s one of the best restaurants in Cronulla. 

2. Ride the Woolooware Bay Shared Pathway
Turn a bike ride into a history lesson along the five-kilometre Woolooware Bay Shared Pathway. The bike- and pedestrian-friendly path threads through the mangroves along wooden boardwalks and past viewing decks that look out towards Botany Bay. Challenge the kids to spot the pied oystercatchers that roost on the old heritage oyster jetty constructed in the mid-1950s. If you don’t have your own bike, hire one from Chain Reaction so you can refuel at onsite café, Rushi, on your return. 

3. Catch the ferry to Bundeena

Hop aboard Australia’s oldest continuously running timetabled commuter ferry in Australia, chugging across Port Hacking since 1939. The half-hour ride from Cronulla Wharf drops you in the sleepy village of Bundeena, on the fringes of Royal National Park – the oldest in Australia. Paddle into Cabbage Tree Basin with Bundeena Kayaks and follow the track to Jibbon Head to find an Indigenous rock art site. Stay at Hilltop Cottage for views over Port Hacking.

4. Row the Hacking River from Audley Boatshed
Swap screentime for some ‘oar-some’ fun with the kids in Royal National Park. Audley Boatshed has been renting out rowboats to families since 1893, when the Audley Pleasure Grounds were established. Hire a rowboat, canoe, or aqua bike and head up the Hacking River or Kangaroo Creek, where sandstone cliffs close in and the kids can play wildlife bingo: kingfishers, turtles, lace monitors. Pack a picnic for Ironbark Flat or grab lunch at the Audley Dance Hall Cafe. Open every day. 

5. Go whale watching in Kurnell (no boat needed)
Set the kids loose at Commemoration Flat in Kamay Botany Bay National Park to find the bronze whale sculptures on the foreshore. Kamay is Gweagal Country, and Burrawang Walk invites families to hear its stories. A soundscape of Indigenous language and clap sticks plays along the path, steering visitors past three bronze sculptures by Indigenous artists: The Whales, Nuwi/Canoes and The Eyes of the Land and the Sea.. In spring, wildflowers bloom around the Yena picnic area.  

6. A Cronulla staycation: movies, gelato, and a beachside stay
Make it a family staycation to remember in Cronulla. Blow up your inflatable pink flamingo shortly after checking in at Rydges Cronulla Beachside, so you’re ready for a dip in the outdoor pool just steps from the sand. Afterward, grab a treat at Anita’s Gelato and catch a film at Hoyts Cronulla, set behind the historic 1928 Cronulla Theatre façade, where you can kick back in comfort in a powered recliner. Rydges Cronulla currently has a Sunday Family funday in the Alley (hotel bar) featuring a kids’ activity corner with Giant Jenga, Giant Connect Four and Soft Play Blocks. If you are feeling more adventurous line up a surf lesson for the whole family with Cronulla Surfing Academy.

7. Head out for dinner
Feeding a hungry crew?  At The Prince Hotel in Kirrawee, kids can enjoy the indoor play area complete with play equipment, games and basketball hoops while parents relax over dinner. Taren Point Hotel offers an enclosed, outdoor play area out the back. For waterside dining, Pippis Cronulla pairs scenic views with plenty to keep children entertained, including a dedicated play space, while Retro Cronulla is a new local favourite. Sealevel is a great choice for an elevated dining experience overlooking the ocean. If pizza is on the menu, Salt Meats Cheese in Cronulla serves family-friendly Italian classics and a dedicated kids’ menu.