Understand
Sutherland Shire is primarily a residential area. Its primary tourist destinations are the beach suburbs of Cronulla, the bushland of Australia's oldest national park the Royal National Park and the first landing point of Captain Cook at Botany Bay in Kurnell.
Many people refer to this area of Sydney as "the Shire". And certainly almost all of the residents of the area do.
It is surrounded by water, with the Ocean to the east, Port Hacking to the South, the Georges River and Botany bay on the North, and the Woronora river on the west. It has numerous opportunities for uncrowded swimming, boating, bushwalking, and exploring the parks, gardens and history of the area.
The Sutherland Shire would be a destination to consider if you were looking to stay in Sydney, but want to avoid the expense, parking hassles, and crowds of the city centre. It offers cheaper accommodation, less crowds, free parking, access to beaches, parks, and bushland, shopping and other amenities and is an 30-40 minute train trip or drive to the attractions at the city centre.
