Long Reef

Long Reef is a stunning coastal headland on Sydney's Northern Beaches, offering dramatic ocean views, rich Aboriginal heritage, and a haven for surfers and nature lovers. The headland features a golf course, a coastal walk, and the Long Reef Aquatic Reserve, where you can spot marine life in rock pools.

Highlights & What to See

• Long Reef Headland Walk: A scenic 2.5 km loop with panoramic views of the Pacific, from Dee Why to Palm Beach. Look for migrating whales (June–November) and sea eagles.
• Rock Pools at Long Reef Aquatic Reserve: Explore abundant marine life in the sheltered rock pools at low tide – you might see starfish, crabs, and small fish. The reserve is also a popular spot for snorkeling.
• Surfing at Long Reef Beach: A consistent right-hand reef break that attracts experienced surfers. The beach is patrolled in summer, and the surrounding cliffs offer great vantage points for watching the waves.
• Aboriginal Heritage: The headland holds significance for the Garigal people. Look for shell middens and grinding grooves near the coastal walk, and learn about the area's Indigenous history.
• Long Reef Golf Course: A challenging public course with clifftop holes that offer breathtaking coastal views. Non-golfers can enjoy the clubhouse restaurant or walk the perimeter path.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate 1–2 hours for the headland walk and rock-pooling. If you plan to surf or play golf, set aside half a day. Combine with a morning or afternoon at nearby Dee Why or Collaroy beaches for a full day by the sea.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dee Why Beach: A lively beach with a long stretch of sand, a lagoon, and a vibrant café scene, just south of Long Reef.
• Narrabeen Lagoon: A large coastal lagoon ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and walking the 8.4 km loop track. It's a short drive north.
• Mona Vale Headland: Another scenic headland with walking tracks, rock pools, and surf breaks, about 10 minutes north.
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: A vast national park with Aboriginal rock art, bushwalks, and stunning Pittwater views, a 20-minute drive west.
• Palm Beach: Famous for its lighthouse walk and golden sand, this iconic northern beach is a 20-minute drive north and perfect for a day trip.

Please check official sources for current details.