Dee Why Beach is a classic Northern Beaches surf beach in Dee Why, with a long stretch of sand backed by big grassy reserves, two ocean pools, and a strip of cafes right across the road. It is one of the most family-geared beaches on Sydney's coast: little ones get a shallow wading pool and fenced playgrounds while the bigger kids get rolling waves and a patrolled flagged zone.

Why We Love It

• A toddler pool with no surf — the bright-blue wading pool beside the 50-metre rockpool is only about knee-deep, so the smallest swimmers can splash about with no waves to wrangle.

• Two fenced playgrounds for different moods — the Michaela Howie playground overlooks the pools and beach, while the James Meehan playground sits back by the lagoon where it is more sheltered on windy days.

• Patrolled flagged swimming — Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club watches the main beach on weekends and public holidays through the warmer months, so there is a safe zone to keep the kids in.

• Grassy reserves made for a full day out — wide lawns for picnics and pram strolls, plus a toddler "shop" and climbing structure to rotate through when sand fatigue sets in.

• Cafes and ice cream a sandy walk away — The Strand opposite the beach is lined with casual cafes, fish-and-chip shops and ice-cream spots, so nobody melts down before lunch.