Sydney's favourite 'hidden gem' beach re-opens after being closed to the public for three years
Share:
A sparkling beach dubbed Sydney's 'best hidden gem' by travellers has re-opened to the public after almost three years. Shark Beach, also known as Nielsen Park, sits on the shores of Vaucluse in the city's leafy eastern suburbs. It has been closed to all visitors since March, 2022 after its 160m sea wall was damaged by flooding following a severe storm in 2016.
![[Shark Beach, also known as Nielsen Park, sits on the shores of Vaucluse in the city's leafy eastern suburbs]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/21/93210617-14199211-image-a-38_1734385004085.jpg)
The new wall was expected to be completed in late 2022, but due to poor weather, construction delays, contract disputes and 3,600 tonnes of asbestos discovered in the old wall, the project took much longer. It also didn't help that 2022 was Sydney's wettest year on record.
![[It has been closed to all visitors since March, 2022 after its 160m sea wall was damaged by flooding following a severe storm in 2016]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/16/21/93210625-14199211-image-a-40_1734385022079.jpg)
NSW Parks and Wildlife then faced another hurdle at the final hour as issues with surface repairs of the concrete bleachers delayed the planned October, 2024 opening once again. Now, with brand new raised planter boxes, mature trees for shade along the lawn terrace and a shiny new dining complex, Shark Beach is finally back in action.
And those who've visited the treasured spot agree it was worth the wait. A sparkling beach dubbed Sydney's 'best hidden gem' by travellers has re-opened to the public after almost three years. Shark Beach, also known as Nielsen Park, sits on the shores of Vaucluse in the city's leafy eastern suburbs.
The gorgeous beach is the ultimate summer getaway, offering the most picturesque locations on Sydney Harbour for a picnic, swim, and a walk. Those deterred by the 'worrying' name are reassured when they spy the enormous safety net fencing off the turquoise swimming area. It has also just been replaced and is in prime condition.
