Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach is a small coastal suburb in New South Wales with a long sandy shoreline where golden sands gently slope toward the sea. Low sandstone cliffs and protective dunes create a natural shelter, and the shoreline is often covered with shells that reflect the peaceful character of the place.

Shelly Beach was traditionally used by the Darkinjung community for fishing and gathering local plants. European settlement began in the early 1800s, and gradually the area became popular for its calm waters and views, eventually developing into a thriving seaside community by the middle of the last century.

The beach is a gathering place for surfing, fishing, and local activities that shape everyday life here. Community members actively participate in beach clean-ups and markets, reflecting a shared commitment to maintaining the natural surroundings and social bonds.

The beach is about 90 minutes north of Sydney and 1 hour south of Newcastle, with parking available near the surf club. Pathways to the sand are gentle and easy to navigate, and you will find several nearby cafes and shops where you can rent gear for water activities or grab refreshments.

At the northern end, there is a designated dog area where dogs can run freely for nearly 1.5 kilometers along the shore. This long stretch makes it one of the more spacious dog beaches in the region and is especially popular with owners looking for room to exercise their pets.

Location: New South Wales

Elevation above the sea: 8 m

Address: Shelly Beach, New South Wales, Australia

GPS coordinates: -30.64861,153.01778

Latest update: December 14, 2025 10:55