Summer 2022/2023 at Sunnyside North
The reprieve by the council meant the many visitors to Sunnyside North were able to enjoy the day without their state of undress being a legal issue. As Australia goes into near total summer shutdown in the week between Christmas and New Year's (apart from sales) what better way to enjoy 37C/99F sunshine than a beach visit?
I got there relatively early and noticed a steady stream of arrivals while I was there, all squeezing into what sand was left available by the high tide. The morning also meant the majority of the west-facing beach was in shade from the cliffs although that situation did not last long. Shelters dotted the available sand while some just had a towel that protected from below rather than above. Plenty of regulars, it seemed. There were over 50 by the time I had to leave with about 20% females. No kids at that time, despite holidays for all at this time.
The sand is fairly evenly spread out along most of the beach at the moment with only the southern (carpark) end being bereft up to the ruined concrete structure, and access from either end requires some rock hopping without too many challenges but footwear may be prudent. Water access from the shore without encountering rocks seems better than for previous years once you reach the sand and turn to enter. The water itself is reported as 19C/66F which has bumped up in recent days, but still required a little courage to enter.
As to the carpark I guess it's still a challenge but, since I arrived by kayak today, I was blissfully ignorant of that. :-)
A nice day to pop over to Sunnyside North for a little all-over sun. The carpark was almost chockers (I creatively parked on the dirt area) and I counted 75 visitors (including 14 women). The usual mix of (mostly) single guys, guys with buddies, mixed couples, single ladies and mixed friendship groups. The water had small waves from the onshore breeze. A few more swimsuits than last time although bottoms only or various types. Given the sun the was the occasional Donald Ducking. I travelled light, as usual, with just a brief suit for the walk from the carpark, my towel and the essential hat along with keys and phone. Forgot to leave the glasses behind in the car so may have seen a little more than usual. Love the sun, sea and sand, but have to watch that solar dosage!
With the high tide and onshore wind today, rock hopping and wet feet were unavoidable when accessing from the southern (carpark) end. I didn't even attempt to get to the northern point. Still a few there today despite the mild weather and more arriving as I left. Around 25 there, excluding the guy upgrading the fence with the campground.