Marley Beach is located within the Royal National Park near Bundeena in the Sutherland Shire. The beach is backed by extensive, untouched sand dunes and a lagoon. The beach is part of a scenic coastal area that includes nearby features such as Marley Head, a prominent cliff, and Little Marley Beach, which is accessible by a coastal walking track from Bundeena. The seabed between Jibbon Reef and Marley Beach is noted, indicating a mix of reef and sandy bottom environments. The beach faces the open ocean, making it exposed to prevailing winds and swell. Paddlers launching from the shore should be prepared for potential surf conditions and should assess the shore break carefully. There is no formal boat ramp at Marley Beach itself, so launching and landing would be directly from the sand. The area is part of the 26km Coast Track, a walking route that begins in Bundeena and passes Wedding Cake Rock and hidden beaches, suggesting that paddling along this coastline could offer views of dramatic sandstone cliffs and secluded coves. Guided kayaking tours are offered by local operators like Bundeena Kayaks, and rentals for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available in the vicinity, allowing for independent exploration of the park's waterways. The beach and surrounding park are home to diverse wildlife, including black cockatoos and, during migration season between May and November, humpback whales can sometimes be spotted from coastal lookouts. The water body is situated within a national park, so standard park entry fees apply for vehicle access, and paddlers should adhere to all park regulations. The overall character is that of a rugged, natural beach within a protected park setting, suitable for experienced paddlers comfortable with open coastal conditions.