Long Bay is the dominant natural feature viewed from Malabar Beach. The deeply incised and narrow form of the bay is unusual in the Sydney regional context and is a result of the inundated heads of coastal stream valleys. The bay itself is about 1000 metres wide at the heads and narrows to about 150 metres wide at the beach. The water depth is generally less than 10 metres.

The beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

The bay features a rock pool  located on the southern foreshore below Randwick Golf Club. Cromwell Park, located directly behind the beach, and the beach itself are the focus for activities such as walking, jogging, picnicking and sunbathing. The sheltered waters of the bay provide a number of recreational opportunities such as swimming, fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing and boating. There are two shipwrecks in the bay, the MV Malabar and the Goolgwai, both popular with divers.

The Malabar Beach and Foreshore Plan of Management details the existing environment, the history, heritage and recreational uses of the area, and outlines the management strategies and priorities for the beach. Copies of the Plan of Management are available for purchase at a cost of $20. Contact us.