Maroubra has emerged as one of Sydney’s most high-risk surf beaches, with long-term data showing it records the equal highest number of fatal drownings among sandy beaches in the city.
A Two-Decade Pattern At One Beach
Data spanning more than 20 years shows Maroubra Beach recorded 10 fatal drownings between July 2002 and early January 2026. This is the highest number recorded at any Sydney sandy beach during that period, shared with Bondi Beach.
Across Sydney, 79 confirmed drowning deaths were recorded at sandy beaches over the same timeframe. These figures do not include incidents involving rock platforms, ocean pools or boating activities.
National Figures Put Local Risk In Context
The National Drowning Report 2025, produced by Royal Life Saving Australia in partnership with Surf Life Saving Australia, recorded 357 drowning deaths nationwide over the past 12 months.
This figure sits 27 per cent above the 10-year average. The report found 43 per cent of drowning deaths occurred in coastal locations, including 82 deaths at beaches.
Who Faces The Greatest Risk
While children aged five to 14 recorded the lowest drowning rates, risk increased sharply among people aged 15 to 24. Drowning rates were above the long-term average for every age group over 45.
One-third of all drowning deaths involved adults aged 65 and over, with the highest rates recorded among those aged 75 and older.
Behaviour Changes And Coastal Exposure
Experts attribute part of the recent increase in drowning deaths to changes in coastal behaviour following pandemic disruptions. These include missed swimming lessons, increased boating activity and greater exposure to uncontrolled or remote coastal locations.
Public awareness of beach hazards does not always translate into safer decision-making, particularly in exposed surf environments.
How Maroubra Compares Across Sydney
Mapping of drowning deaths across Sydney’s surf beaches over more than two decades shows Maroubra consistently ranks among the locations with the highest number of fatal incidents at sandy beaches.
This places Maroubra as a clear example of broader coastal safety risks identified at both city and national levels.
Outlook
Long-term data shows Maroubra remains one of Sydney’s most consistently high-risk surf beaches. National figures indicate coastal environments continue to account for a significant share of drowning deaths, reinforcing the ongoing importance of beach safety awareness.
Published 13-Jan-2026
