As a Sydney dog parent, there’s nothing better than packing up the car, grabbing my pup’s favorite toy, and hitting the road for a day of adventure—especially when the destination checks all the boxes: coastal views, off-leash fun for my furry mate, and plenty of good food. That’s exactly what I found on a recent day trip to Sharky Beach in Coledale. From the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge to skydiving thrills, a sandy off-leash beach, and a charming small-town, this trip was one for the memory book.

We set off early from Sydney, driving south along Lawrence Hargrave Drive to the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. This stunning coastal bridge clings to the Illawarra cliffs, offering breathtaking ocean views. We pulled over for a short stroll with my leashed pup, who loved the sea breeze—and we got a fun surprise: skydivers gliding down from the sky toward Bald Hill, a popular spot for the activity. My pup watched them with total fascination, making the detour even more special.

Fifteen minutes later, we reached Sharky Beach (798A Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Coledale), with free parking—a huge win for dog parents. My pup romped freely, splashed in the swimming zone, and played fetch until he was happily panting. A few quick notes: there’s no full fencing (keep an eye on wanderers), no shaded areas and no separate spaces for big/small dogs—though the vibe was friendly and safe.

Once my pup was tuckered out, we drove 10 minutes to Thirroul, a charming coastal town. We wandered the main street, browsing quirky boutiques and antique stores, then stopped at a cozy specialty café with outdoor seating (leashed dogs welcome) for a coffee. For lunch, The Beaches Hotel was a hit—their fresh, flavorful Mexican food (think tacos and nachos) and relaxed outdoor patio made it perfect for a post-beach meal, with my pup curled up at my feet.

Sharky Beach is the ideal day trip: close to the city, full of pup-friendly fun, and paired with a charming town for eats and browsing. If you’re after a laid-back adventure with your four-legged friend, it’s a must-visit.

Happy travels, fellow paw parents—may your days be filled with sandy paws, coastal views, and good times with your pup! 🐾