The beach is part of a site that once housed the Coast Hospital, which served as a quarantine facility for smallpox and plague outbreaks in the late 19th century.
The surrounding area was extensively redeveloped from a former hospital campus into a residential precinct, which helped facilitate public access to the cove.
The beach is considered a 'pocket beach,' formed by the erosion of the surrounding Hawkesbury sandstone cliffs.
Its protected orientation makes it a popular spot for local scuba divers exploring the rocky reef system at the bay's mouth.
Little Bay Beach is a sheltered, crescent-shaped cove located at the base of steep sandstone cliffs in Sydney's southeastern suburbs. The beach is protected from large ocean swells by a reef at the entrance, creating relatively calm water conditions suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Access is restricted to a steep set of stairs leading from the cliff-top residential area down to the sand. The site is historically significant as the location of the former Coast Hospital, established in 1881 to treat infectious diseases. The surrounding landscape features rugged coastal walking paths connected to the longer Coast Walk trail. There is a small rock pool located at the northern end of the beach. Due to the cliffs, the beach loses direct sunlight earlier in the afternoon than other Sydney beaches.
From the top of the cliff stairs looking down into the cove before descending.
Bring sturdy footwear for the steep staircase descent and ascent.
Visit during low tide to explore the rock pools and the wider sandy area.
Pack all essentials, including water and snacks, as there are no shops or kiosks directly on the sand.
Attempting to climb the sandstone cliffs, as they are unstable; avoid visiting if high surf warnings are in place, as the bay can experience dangerous surges.
Public beach standards apply; respectful behavior and noise control are expected as it is adjacent to residential properties.
