Sydney’s Northern Beaches - dolphins, big swell at Avalon rockpool, a Sydney red gum at West Head

Sydney’s Northern Beaches - dolphins, big swell at Avalon rockpool, a Sydney red gum at West Head, Ku-ring-gai National Park

Two days ago Sydney Nimble was treated to the sight of a pod of dolphins playfully swimming and surfing waves at the northern end of Palm Beach.

They were spotted whilst walking near Barrenjoey Lighthouse. There were at least 14 dolphins in the grouping. A rare treat!

On the way back from Palm Beach the swell had picked up during the day. A few individuals had chanced their arm and bodies by swimming in the Avalon rockpool which was being bombed with foam from breaking waves. The brave swimmer(s) in two of the photos are clearly exposed to the power of ocean.

Next stop was West Head lookout where we came across a Sydney red gum (Angophora Costata) which was shedding it rich earthy-coloured bark.

The smooth barked Sydney red gum is a native of the east coast of Australia and is characterised by twisted and gnarly branches.

Summer is a great time to visit and enjoy the beauty of the Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park!