Avalon Beach ranks second overall among Sydney’s cleanest beaches, according to the 2025 Beachwatch report, confirming its excellent water quality, consistently low levels of enterococci bacteria, and minimal stormwater runoff.
Clean Waters for Avalon
The 2025 Beachwatch report assessed 249 swimming sites across New South Wales. The report found that 95 per cent of ocean beaches across the state had “very good” or “good” water quality. Avalon Beach ranked second overall in Sydney, following Whale Beach, based on consistently low levels of enterococci bacteria.
Avalon’s strong result was supported by its natural conditions and limited stormwater inflow. Local residents noted that the beach’s lack of stormwater drainage contributed to its cleanliness compared to other coastal areas.
Report Findings and Statewide Overview
The Beachwatch report graded beaches from “very good” to “very poor” based on microbial water quality. Among Sydney’s top-performing beaches were Whale Beach, Avalon Beach, Greenhills Beach, Palm Beach, The Basin, Wanda Beach, Shelly Beach (Sutherland), Elvina Bay, Bungan Beach, and Bilgola Beach.
The 2025 findings by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water attributed improved beach conditions to below-average rainfall, which reduced runoff and pollution in urban waterways. Statewide, 23 swimming locations recorded improved water quality over the previous year.
How Avalon Compares
Avalon’s ranking placed it ahead of many of Sydney’s well-known beaches such as Bondi, Bronte, and Coogee. Bondi and Bronte received “good” gradings, while Coogee was rated “poor”. Beaches in the Northern Beaches and Sutherland Shire dominated the top ten for water quality, reflecting lower population density and minimal urban runoff in these coastal areas.
In contrast, enclosed sites such as Foreshores Beach and Gymea Bay Baths received “very poor” gradings due to restricted water flow and higher contamination risk.
Community Response
Social media users celebrated Avalon’s high ranking, attributing its success to its natural drainage and community care for the coastal environment. Comments from locals highlighted the absence of major stormwater outlets and the protection of dune systems as key reasons for the beach’s pristine condition.
Residents also praised neighbouring Bilgola Beach, which placed within Sydney’s top ten cleanest beaches, reinforcing the Northern Beaches’ reputation for maintaining strong environmental standards.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Access
The Beachwatch program continues to provide public access to real-time water quality data through its website. Environment Department officials advised swimmers to check Beachwatch updates before entering the water, particularly after rainfall, as urban runoff can temporarily affect water quality.
Published 3-Nov-2025
