Shelly Beach

Contributor Review – Cristy Lekker
Local Expert. Visited 2024

Shelly Beach was an absolute gem, and we’re so glad we made the effort to visit during our weekend escape to the Barrington Coast. As sometimes nude beach visitors, we’ve explored quite a few clothing-optional beaches in Australia, but there’s something about Shelly Beach that felt extra special. Maybe it’s the sense of discovery that comes with the 800-metre walk through the rainforest, or the way the secluded cove is tucked away like a little secret. Either way, we were smitten from the moment we stepped onto the soft sand.

The walk itself was stunning. Strolling through the rainforest, seeing the ocean through the trees, felt like a mini adventure. It’s an easy walk, but enough to make you feel like you’ve earned your slice of paradise by the time you arrive. The beach is beautifully quiet, and while it’s not officially a legal nude beach, it’s widely promoted known by the locals that is a nude beach. Even the NSW Government says that it is clothing optional! That made us feel comfortable enough to slip out of our clothes and fully enjoy the freedom of being in nature.

We settled at the far end of the beach, where most of the naturists tend to gather. There were probably 3-4 couples and 5 single blokes when we were here. The vibe was incredibly relaxed and welcoming. There was a mix of locals and a few other visitors, and everyone seemed respectful and mindful of personal space. We noticed that the locals definitely seem to cherish this spot—they’ve kept it low-key, and it feels like a hidden sanctuary.

The water was calm and crystal-clear, and swimming here was nothing short of magical. The north-facing aspect of the beach means it’s sheltered from heavy swells, so it felt like we had our own private lagoon. We spent ages just floating and soaking up the sunshine. The sand was soft and golden, and the gentle curve of the bay made it feel even more secluded.

One thing we loved was the balance of naturists and textiles. While there were a few families and clothed visitors toward the other end of the beach, it never felt awkward or intrusive. Everyone just seemed to coexist peacefully, which is exactly how it should be.

A few practical notes: the beach is part of a national park, so it’s pristine, but that also means there are no amenities. There’s a smelly pit toilet just behind the beach, but that’s about it, so make sure to pack everything you need. We brought plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, and we were glad we did.

This was one of the most memorable beach days we’ve had in a long time. Shelly Beach has that rare combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and freedom that makes it a must-visit for any naturist. We’ll definitely be back, and next time, we’ll bring a few friends to share the experience. If you’re a fan of nude beaches, this is one to add to your list. It is a low key nude beach in NSW and definitely worth the visit.. a totally different experience compared to city beaches like Cobblers or Lady Bay that are reviewed on Nude Beach Map.