Maroubra Beach: Sun, sand and surf without the crowds
Less well known than Bondi and Manly beaches, Maroubra largely escapes the tourist deluge of the summer months and attracts a more local, family-orientated crowd, as well surf aficionados from around the world.
Stretching for just over a kilometre along the length of Maroubra Bay, the beach’s name is an indigenous word meaning “like thunder”, an apt description for the sound of the waves that pound the sandy shores and the rocky headland that bounds the beach to the north and south.
It’s these infamous waves that make Maroubra one of Sydney’s premier surfing destinations – legend has it that the beginnings of Australian surf culture first stirred here in the early 1900s, and that during the World Wars, local boys would avoid being enlisted by floating out for hours while the recruitment officers were in the area. Maroubra has certainly produced some of Australia’s best surfers, and is home to a number of local and international surfing events throughout the year. For the less experienced, Sydney Safe Surf School runs casual lessons on the beach for beginners.
Maroubra is best suited to confident swimmers, with the northern end generally the safest spot for a dip. The beach is patrolled during the warmer months – just be sure to stay between the flags at all times. On calm days, SCUBA divers can also explore the rocky reef at South Maroubra, where there are the scattered remains of two shipwrecks.
Even if you’re not keen on getting wet, Maroubra has plenty of local charm and more than enough to do to wile a lazy day away. Unlike the more popular beaches to the north, Maroubra usually has plenty of space for visitors to pick the sunbathing spot of their choice. Next to the sand is Arthur Byne Reserve, an open, grassy space with picnic shelters, barbecues and a skate park. From here you can start scenic cliff top walks to Magic Point, Lurline Bay and Coogee Beach. The Maroubra Seals Club is a popular watering hole for local surfies and lifesavers, and a few cafés have cropped up opposite the beach in recent years. Still, Maroubra has yet to be overrun by the latte set, and you won’t find any Bondi-style cocktail bars or rowdy backpacker joints disrupting the 'Bra's chilled out atmosphere.
At the northern end of Maroubra Bay is Mistral Point, a stunning place to stand back at a safe distance and watch wild waves pummel the dramatic rocky cliff-face. Here you’ll also find a safe swimming spot, Mahon Pool, and a cute little restaurant, the Pool Cafe.
Posted by Fiona Davies
