Back to Basics: Birdie Beach

Naturalists seeking out a refreshing skinny dip should make a beeline for beautiful Birdie Beach, an uncrowded clothing-optional spot nestled within Munmorah State Conservation Area.

This little gem is the Central Coast’s only nudist beach, and one of very few legal nudist beaches in NSW. Hidden within picturesque Munmorah State Conservation Area, just north of Budgewoi, Birdie Beach is a four-kilometre stretch of pristine sand lapped by water sparkling all shades of blue and green.

Bordered by the rugged cliffs of Wybung Head to the north and Budgewoi Peninsula to its south, rarely busy Birdie Beach is a great spot for surfing and snorkelling – but is best known for its clothing-optional liberties, so if you’re keen to get your kit off for an ocean swim, or to work on your all-over tan, this is the place to do it. There is a dedicated section to the north that is sign-posted ‘unclad bathing’ so stick to this section. Also keep in mind the beach is unpatrolled.

Munmorah State Conservation Area is a diverse park with pockets of lush rainforest, craggy coastline and idyllic sandy beaches and bays, for all types of aquatic adventures. Within short driving distances, you’ll find Elizabeth Bay, a tranquil waterway, perfect for picnics, fishing and boating; Moonee Beach, which dotted with rockpools that the kids will love; and Frazer Beach, a wide family-friendly beach that also boasts a lagoon. Swimsuits are mandatory in all areas, except Birdie Beach. 

You can pack your shoes to traverse the many walking trails, too. A highlight is the Palm Circuit that will have your wandering under a hyper-green canopy of cabbage tree palms, and is a welcoming respite on hot days. In contrast, the Moonee Beach Trail traces the headland, with panoramic coastal views. During winter, this is the perfect place to enjoy some whale-spotting.

Pitch a tent and stay overnight to make the most of your visit. There are two campgrounds within Munmorah State Conservation Area: Frazer Campground and Freemans Campground. Freemans Campground is a short walk from Birdie Beach, so you can spend long days between chilling on the sand, cooling off in the ocean or surfing, and be lulled to sleep by the waves at night. It has designated spots for caravans and trailers, as well as tents. There are picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water, showers and toilets.

Frazer Campground is a 10-minute drive from Birdie Beach and 50 metres from Frazer Beach, boasting coastal views. There are picnic tables, barbecue facilities, showers and toilets.

Be sure to stay within the northern area of the beach, where nude bathing is acceptable. Neighbouring beaches are popular with families, so make sure you’re in the right place before you get you strip down.

Photos of yourself are permitted but – it should go without saying – do not take photos of anyone else.

If you prefer to keep your swimwear on, that’s OK! You can still enjoy Birdie Beach, as long as you’re comfortable to have company sans clothing.