History of Edwards Beach, Balmoral
Ever since the early days of the Sydney’s founding, Balmoral’s beauty and idyllic setting, as undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, was recognised by Sydney’s early settlers. By the middle of the 19th Century people flocked to Balmoral at weekends to relax, picnic and spend a fun day out. At that time, there were no roads, just bush tracks, so all transport to Balmoral needed to be by boat. Ferries would bring pleasure seekers to Balmoral Gardens Pleasure Park, landing to enjoy their day out at Edwards Beach. 
Balmoral, the jewel in Mosman’s crown, is in fact two beaches flowing into one, broken only by a small island linked to the beach by a tiny picturesque bridge over the sand. Although the two beaches are collectively referred to as Balmoral, The Oriana is positioned on the beachfront on the northern of the two beaches in the exclusive Edwards Beach enclave.
How did this section of Balmoral acquire its name, Edwards Beach?
Edwards Beach was named after Captain John Edwards. He was the third permanent settler in Balmoral, building a stone house near the beach, opposite Rocky Point Island and little bridge. He was a retired whaling Captain and paid £140 in 1839 for extensive holdings along the beach frontage which became known as Edwards Beach. It was his son who established the pleasure gardens, naming them Balmoral Gardens after Queen Victoria’s Scottish retreat. Balmoral means magnificent place in Gaelic (Baile Morail), so Balmoral was aptly named.
It seems strange today but in this period sea bathing was not a popular pastime as bathing was only permitted after 6pm. Balmoral Gardens, Edwards Beach, however, utilised its unique position as a “pleasure garden” by providing a plentiful supply of food and beverages, with a band and marquee, later a dance hall, patronised by dancers, we are told, throughout the day.
Dates still available in 2018.
There are still some dates for available for booking in 8th to 31stAugust, 1st to 26th September and 14th to 26th October but there are only 6 nights left in December (14th to 20th December).
Remember when booking The Oriana to come direct to me via email or on The Oriana website to save booking fees from listing agencies
Dr Helen Bendall
+61 413 135 158