“Brightness place.” That’s what Clareville means. Welcome to Clareville Beach.
This hidden gem on Sydney’s Northern Beaches offers a perfect escape. Clareville Beach is nestled in a small suburb west of Avalon. It is a calm retreat for families.
Imagine Clareville Beach as it was long ago. In the 1830s, Father John Joseph Therry received a land grant here. He was a Catholic priest. This grant included what we now call Clareville.
Initially, people accessed this area mainly by water. Think of arriving by boat. In the early 1920s, the land was subdivided. Sydney residents bought holiday homes here. By the 1950s, cars became more common. Clareville then transformed into a residential area.
Today, houses here are expensive. Many offer waterfront views. Clareville has become a sought-after place to live.
Clareville Beach itself lies within the Clareville Reserve. This reserve stretches along Pittwater. It’s similar to Clontarf Beach and Chinaman’s Beach. Clareville is great for families. It also hosts boats and water sports.
The beach is known for its calm waters. It’s protected from strong rips and tides. Tall trees border the beach providing shade and shelter. The sand is soft and inviting.
Even without swimming, Clareville Beach is beautiful. You can sit and enjoy the views. Or take a walk along the shore.
While there’s no playground, there’s plenty to do. Spend hours swimming and playing in the sand. Then, have a picnic on the grass. Electric BBQs and picnic tables are available.
If you prefer enclosed swimming, head towards Taylors Point Wharf. You’re in the right place if you see signs for the Naval Base.
Originally, Clareville Beach was called Farrell’s Beach or Long Beach. In 1816, John Williams was promised 60 acres here. Thomas Street later purchased this acreage in 1824. John Farrell bought it before 1835.
By the 1880s, Claraville Wharf was a selling point. Access by water was easier than by land. An advertisement from 1886 mentions it. It described land a short walk from Claraville Pier.
In 1912, Warringah Shire Council took responsibility for Clareville Wharf.
Several people shaped Clareville’s history. Arthur Jabez Small played a role in the area’s development. He requested tree planting at Clareville Beach recreation reserve in 1918.
In 1921, the council approved renaming Clareville Road as Avalon Parade. Also in 1921, the council appointed a beach inspector for Clareville Beach. Bathing sheds were present.
In 1923, further land was sold. Access roads were constructed, including Delecta Avenue. Thirty acres were set aside for a reserve. This was originally known as Hudson Park.
Hudson Park was dedicated as a public reserve in 1957.
During the Great Depression, people camped at Clareville. In 1933, the council tried to prevent this.
Land resumptions were required in the mid-1950s for public recreation.
Today, Clareville Beach offers a perfect day out. You can park easily in the council car park. There are toilets with disability access and an outside shower. The Clareville Kiosk offers refreshments. Or, you can pick up something in Avalon.
Enjoy the calm waters. Relax on the sandy beach. Take in the beauty of Clareville.