My choice of best Sydney beach is Manly.
While Bondi Beach is probably more popularly known, arising from its accessibility from Sydney city centre in the days of the Bondi tram, I opt for Manly Beach for at least the same accessibility reason.
From Sydney's Circular Quay it is a half-hour ferry ride to Manly Wharf, then it's a short walk through the Corso to the beach.
Near the Corso, the beach may tend to get overcrowded during beach season but you can always walk further north to North Steyne.
Also, if you like beach volleyball, there are facilities for this sport.
Depending on how you look at it, an added plus is the proximity of various grades of hotels and apartments, eateries from plush restaurants to low-cost takeaway joints, and a variety of shops.
My alternative choice:
Cronulla Beach, taking in the wide arc of beaches along the shore from Kurnell Peninsula in the north to Cronulla Point in the south, is one of my favorite beaches.
There are tidal pools if you prefer them and you'll always find a place to eat close by. And there are parks with trees and shade so welcome in the hot weather.
If you don't mind the short walk, you will usually find free parking close by and along the streets by the water. (You would normally not find free parking on many Sydney beaches, including Manly and Bondi.)
If you prefer not to drive, the Cronulla beaches are not too far from Cronulla train station.
