Maroubra Beach

The kilometer-long stretch of Maroubra Beach might have a scruffy rep from the Bra Boys (there was even a documentary about the '90s surf gang) but it's actually a peaceful place to swim and sunbathe. Due south, the beach leads into Malabar Headland National Park, where scenic coastal trails trace sandstone cliffs and often see less foot traffic than the walks further north. Some sections close during ANZAC Rifle Range operations; check nationalparks.nsw.gov.au for updates before visiting.