Sydney's resident seal spotted at Dee Why Beach

Sydney's beloved Northern Beaches seal is back, spotted enjoying the sun on a popular beach this morning.

The seal waddled up three flights of stairs to lie down on the lawn at Dee Why Beach, attracting a crowd of passers-by as it napped on the grass.

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Police and animal authorities cordoned off the area to allow the animal to enjoy its peace and quiet.

The seal is fast becoming a familiar face around the Northern Beaches, appearing in several locations along the coast over the last few weeks.

"It is becoming increasingly normal to see him," a Northern Beaches Council spokesperson told nine.com.au.

A large seal spotted in Manly earlier this month is also believed to be the same animal.

"What we think is the same seal has been coming back and sunning himself of the beaches from Dee Why right up to Palm Beach," the spokesperson said.

"We are observing him and keeping a barrier between onlookers and the seal because they are protected."

"(The) National Parks and Wildlife (Service) look after the welfare of the animal and the local wildlife volunteers are very helpful making sure people don't come too close."

Bystanders must remain at least 40 metres from seals as they are a protected species in the area.