Things To Do

Whale Beach is said to be named following a whale beaching here. It’s a 600m stretch of beach and tends to be a lot less busy than Palm Beach, although it can still draw a crowd in the peak of summer. Facilities: … Disabled toilets Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers

Cottage Point Inn began its life as a boat house, general store and post office for the river community. Over several decades regulars, boaties and Sydneysiders in the know have enjoyed the Inn’s transformation… from a pleasant bistro into an assured and respected fine dining restaurant that matches its stunning riverside, national park setting. Once a well kept secret The Cottage Point Inn is now widely recognised as one of Sydney’s finest dining destination restaurants. Owners Shane and Ally Olesen are looking forward with a clear goal to ensure that Cottage Point Inn continues to blossom and further define its identity reflecting the unique location in a Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park abundant in native flora, fauna and natural beauty. For lunch and dinner Cottage Point Inn is currently offering a 5 or 8 course tasting menu. View Menu Location 2 Anderson Place Cottage Point, NSW 2084 Cottage Point Inn is accessible by road, water and air. The restaurant is located on the northern edge of Sydney about a 50 minute drive from the city centre. We are serviced by 2 seaplanes companies as well as several water taxi companies that operate from Pittwater and the central coast. Our pontoon is available for the use of guests arriving by private boat whilst they dine in the restaurant.

Located in Warriewood and inspired by the surf, Hang 10 Distillery was born from a passion to combat climate change and protect our oceans. By using surplus bread to create their base spirits, they’re… helping to reduce food waste in Australia, one bottle at a time. Newly open, their bar offers a unique and inviting space for you to experience their sustainable spirits firsthand. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, come visit Hang 10 Distillery and enjoy a taste of their handcrafted gin, vodka, and more. Feel the surf vibes, enjoy some quality drinks, and be a part of the Hang 10 Distillery team!

Avalon Beach RSL Club is an RSL with a refreshing difference. The venue boasts a range of offerings and activities to members and guests of all demographics. Our restaurant, Bistro 61, is open 7 days and… offers house made fresh modern Australian cuisine with relaxed alfresco seating available. The venue also has a large playground just for the kids. There are two bars over two levels with 20 beers on tap, an extensive wine selection and creative cocktails. Weekly promotions and entertainment include live music, poker, giveaways, raffles, pool tables, meal offers, huge outdoor TV, trivia, all live sport, TAB facilities and more. If you’re after live music, Surf Lounge Sessions take place every Saturday night at Avalon Beach RSL Club, where live musicians perform. Dress regulations apply so please check the website for the dress code and also to see who is performing.

Conveniently located just a short stroll from Palm Beach Wharf, the local RSL at Palm Beach has a bistro as well as Tab and Keno. The beer garden and bird aviary is a great place in summer to kick back… with friends over a drink or two.

Located on a corner in Avalon’s village and shopping district, and headed by owner and chef Rishi, this modern Australian restaurant specialises in contemporary cuisine. Rishi has worked at other Sydney… fine dining establishments including Berowra Waters Inn, Wildfire Sydney and Kiplings Bar. In addition to a number of main meals, there is also a ‘Street Food’ menu available all day between Wednesday and Sunday, serving lighter meals such as arancini balls, croquettes, tacos and sliders.

Jonah’s has been an iconic Northern Beaches dining destination since it opened in 1929. Over the years it has enjoyed visits from many celebrities including Lord Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, Mick… Jagger, Rod Stewart and Sir Anthony Hopkins. The Good Food Guide Chef’s Hatted restaurant is truly a fine dining destination with stunning views from its elevated position overlooking Whale Beach. The extensive Australian and international wine list of more than 1,600 wines is drawn from a cellar collection of more than 11,000 bottles. Guests come from all over Sydney, some by seaplane, dressed in their finest for a day of glamorous coastal dining. Smart dress is a must and bookings are essential — get in early and be sure to ask for a window seat. Options include The Restaurant, The Terrace (with a lighter grazing menu) and The Bar. The garden is a popular place for lovebirds to pop the question — so don’t be surprised if celebratory corks are flying. If visiting in June, July, August or September, you may even spot ‘Jonah’ the whale during the Humpback migration to northern waters. We recommend a visit during the day to make the most of the magical vistas, locking away a few hours to be thoroughly indulged, and make sure your camera/phone is charged!

As the name suggests, Dunes is tucked into the northernmost stretch of Palm Beach in parkland. Though not quite surrounded by mounds of sand, you are close enough to hear the waves crashing on the foreshore… and to gaze at the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse with glimpses of blue waters from both the beach and Pittwater sides of the peninsula. A casual ‘kiosk’ eatery fronts onto Governor Phillip Park – but for an indulgent, fine-dining experience, head into Dunes Restaurant which has a number of seating options depending on the weather. Dishes are a fusion between Modern Australian and Japanese with both seafood and ‘turf’ options. The Mediterranean courtyard and polished yet relaxed coastal atmosphere makes this a popular venue for leisurely group celebrations and weddings.

Set in a typical Northern Beaches classic cottage alongside a grand Frangipani tree, long-time local favourite Clareville Kiosk is all about relaxed fine dining. Set back from the water but just a short… stroll to the family-friendly sands of Clareville Beach, this small and intimate restaurant delivers a leisurely fine dining experience with quality produce. Choose from a six- or three-course dining menu and, in winter, be tempted by the Sunday roasts. In the peak of summer, parking can be an issue so if you’re going for lunch, consider a taxi or Uber, or an early booking to beat the crowds.

One of the longest-running restaurants in the area, this French bistro in Avalon is a popular option with locals. It was first opened in 1973 by Alain and Caroline Pointeaux, trading as Barefoot Boulevard… and, since 2012, daughter Natalie and her French husband, Patrice, have been running the show, backed by 20-plus years of industry experience. They have brought a contemporary flair and a little slice of France to the beachy village of Avalon. In the cosy dining space, guests feel transported to a Parisian bistro — with wooden floorboards, French bi-fold windows, wall banquette seating and blackboard menus. The menu has a mix of classic French dishes including a twice baked goats cheese soufflé, bouillabaisse, seared venison, rib of beef for two, duck confit, fish of the day and classic grilled steak served with Café de Paris butter and French fries. Refresh with cocktails, champagne, a selection of beers, or still wines from Australia, New Zealand or France.

Opening as a guest house when it was built in the 1920s, Barrenjoey House has long been a feature of the Palm Beach peninsula. The restaurant has been known for many years as a legendary long lunch venue,… where diners can look out to the westerly setting sun over Pittwater. Barrenjoey House has recently been acquired by The Boathouse Group, who operate several other venues on the Northern Beaches, and the new-look Barrenjoey House will open in time for the summer 2018/19 season offering reservations for dinners (unlike their other walk-in casual venues The Boathouse Palm Beach and Whale Beach Kiosk). Stay tuned!

A unique Pizza cafe based on Sydney’s northern beaches, a large variety of delicious yet unusual recipe’s. We are Cranzgots ~ lived by the locals

Tucked away up a flight of stairs, Avalon Chinese Restaurant has been serving Cantonese-style food for more than 25 years. Select either dine in, take-away or home delivery for such classics as san choy… bow, Cantonese roast duck, or lamb with hoi sin on pancakes.

Taking its inspiration from coastal Mexico, this prime corner restaurant in Avalon village opened in 2017. Locally-sourced seafood and organic wines are a focus for the team. An extensive cocktail list… can be enjoyed alongside pork belly tacos, crispy soft-shell crab tostadas or grilled baby octopus.

At the adults-only Surf Lounge, visitors can enjoy a fully equipped bar, pool tables and casual seating. Live music is featured each Saturday night. Sit-down restaurant, Bistro 61, takes reservations and… welcomes children — it is open daily for lunch and dinner and breakfast on the weekends. A kids’ playground area will keep little ones happy. The Club offers a daily shuttle bus across selected areas of the peninsula, with pick-ups starting from 5:30pm, costing $5 for non-members. For shuttle bus enquiries phone 02 9918 2201.

You can sign in as a visitor at Club Palm Beach RSL where you’ll find an outdoor beer garden and bird aviary, plenty of indoor seating inside the bistro and a kids’ menu. It’s an easy walk from the… Palm Beach ferry, and for visitors staying at the Iluka Road end of Palm Beach. In the great Aussie tradition, the Club offers weekday specials for $13.50, with such dishes as roast of the day, rump steak, chicken schnitzel, homemade pies and tempura fish and chips. For groups of 10 or more, you can book a Pittwater cruise with Fantasea and then follow it up with a meal back at the Club. Dress regulations apply for all Club visitors so check the website for details.

Located in Warriewood and inspired by the surf, Hang 10 Distillery was born from a passion to combat climate change and protect our oceans. By using surplus bread to create their base spirits, they’re… helping to reduce food waste in Australia, one bottle at a time. Newly open, their bar offers a unique and inviting space for you to experience their sustainable spirits firsthand. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, come visit Hang 10 Distillery and enjoy a taste of their handcrafted gin, vodka, and more. Feel the surf vibes, enjoy some quality drinks, and be a part of the Hang 10 Distillery team!

Avalon Beach RSL Club is an RSL with a refreshing difference. The venue boasts a range of offerings and activities to members and guests of all demographics. Our restaurant, Bistro 61, is open 7 days and… offers house made fresh modern Australian cuisine with relaxed alfresco seating available. The venue also has a large playground just for the kids. There are two bars over two levels with 20 beers on tap, an extensive wine selection and creative cocktails. Weekly promotions and entertainment include live music, poker, giveaways, raffles, pool tables, meal offers, huge outdoor TV, trivia, all live sport, TAB facilities and more. If you’re after live music, Surf Lounge Sessions take place every Saturday night at Avalon Beach RSL Club, where live musicians perform. Dress regulations apply so please check the website for the dress code and also to see who is performing.

Conveniently located just a short stroll from Palm Beach Wharf, the local RSL at Palm Beach has a bistro as well as Tab and Keno. The beer garden and bird aviary is a great place in summer to kick back… with friends over a drink or two.

At the adults-only Surf Lounge, visitors can enjoy a fully equipped bar, pool tables and casual seating. Live music is featured each Saturday night. Sit-down restaurant, Bistro 61, takes reservations and… welcomes children — it is open daily for lunch and dinner and breakfast on the weekends. A kids’ playground area will keep little ones happy. The Club offers a daily shuttle bus across selected areas of the peninsula, with pick-ups starting from 5:30pm, costing $5 for non-members. For shuttle bus enquiries phone 02 9918 2201.

You can sign in as a visitor at Club Palm Beach RSL where you’ll find an outdoor beer garden and bird aviary, plenty of indoor seating inside the bistro and a kids’ menu. It’s an easy walk from the… Palm Beach ferry, and for visitors staying at the Iluka Road end of Palm Beach. In the great Aussie tradition, the Club offers weekday specials for $13.50, with such dishes as roast of the day, rump steak, chicken schnitzel, homemade pies and tempura fish and chips. For groups of 10 or more, you can book a Pittwater cruise with Fantasea and then follow it up with a meal back at the Club. Dress regulations apply for all Club visitors so check the website for details.

Cottage Point Inn began its life as a boat house, general store and post office for the river community. Over several decades regulars, boaties and Sydneysiders in the know have enjoyed the Inn’s transformation… from a pleasant bistro into an assured and respected fine dining restaurant that matches its stunning riverside, national park setting. Once a well kept secret The Cottage Point Inn is now widely recognised as one of Sydney’s finest dining destination restaurants. Owners Shane and Ally Olesen are looking forward with a clear goal to ensure that Cottage Point Inn continues to blossom and further define its identity reflecting the unique location in a Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park abundant in native flora, fauna and natural beauty. For lunch and dinner Cottage Point Inn is currently offering a 5 or 8 course tasting menu. View Menu Location 2 Anderson Place Cottage Point, NSW 2084 Cottage Point Inn is accessible by road, water and air. The restaurant is located on the northern edge of Sydney about a 50 minute drive from the city centre. We are serviced by 2 seaplanes companies as well as several water taxi companies that operate from Pittwater and the central coast. Our pontoon is available for the use of guests arriving by private boat whilst they dine in the restaurant.

Located on a corner in Avalon’s village and shopping district, and headed by owner and chef Rishi, this modern Australian restaurant specialises in contemporary cuisine. Rishi has worked at other Sydney… fine dining establishments including Berowra Waters Inn, Wildfire Sydney and Kiplings Bar. In addition to a number of main meals, there is also a ‘Street Food’ menu available all day between Wednesday and Sunday, serving lighter meals such as arancini balls, croquettes, tacos and sliders.

Jonah’s has been an iconic Northern Beaches dining destination since it opened in 1929. Over the years it has enjoyed visits from many celebrities including Lord Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, Mick… Jagger, Rod Stewart and Sir Anthony Hopkins. The Good Food Guide Chef’s Hatted restaurant is truly a fine dining destination with stunning views from its elevated position overlooking Whale Beach. The extensive Australian and international wine list of more than 1,600 wines is drawn from a cellar collection of more than 11,000 bottles. Guests come from all over Sydney, some by seaplane, dressed in their finest for a day of glamorous coastal dining. Smart dress is a must and bookings are essential — get in early and be sure to ask for a window seat. Options include The Restaurant, The Terrace (with a lighter grazing menu) and The Bar. The garden is a popular place for lovebirds to pop the question — so don’t be surprised if celebratory corks are flying. If visiting in June, July, August or September, you may even spot ‘Jonah’ the whale during the Humpback migration to northern waters. We recommend a visit during the day to make the most of the magical vistas, locking away a few hours to be thoroughly indulged, and make sure your camera/phone is charged!

As the name suggests, Dunes is tucked into the northernmost stretch of Palm Beach in parkland. Though not quite surrounded by mounds of sand, you are close enough to hear the waves crashing on the foreshore… and to gaze at the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse with glimpses of blue waters from both the beach and Pittwater sides of the peninsula. A casual ‘kiosk’ eatery fronts onto Governor Phillip Park – but for an indulgent, fine-dining experience, head into Dunes Restaurant which has a number of seating options depending on the weather. Dishes are a fusion between Modern Australian and Japanese with both seafood and ‘turf’ options. The Mediterranean courtyard and polished yet relaxed coastal atmosphere makes this a popular venue for leisurely group celebrations and weddings.

Set in a typical Northern Beaches classic cottage alongside a grand Frangipani tree, long-time local favourite Clareville Kiosk is all about relaxed fine dining. Set back from the water but just a short… stroll to the family-friendly sands of Clareville Beach, this small and intimate restaurant delivers a leisurely fine dining experience with quality produce. Choose from a six- or three-course dining menu and, in winter, be tempted by the Sunday roasts. In the peak of summer, parking can be an issue so if you’re going for lunch, consider a taxi or Uber, or an early booking to beat the crowds.

One of the longest-running restaurants in the area, this French bistro in Avalon is a popular option with locals. It was first opened in 1973 by Alain and Caroline Pointeaux, trading as Barefoot Boulevard… and, since 2012, daughter Natalie and her French husband, Patrice, have been running the show, backed by 20-plus years of industry experience. They have brought a contemporary flair and a little slice of France to the beachy village of Avalon. In the cosy dining space, guests feel transported to a Parisian bistro — with wooden floorboards, French bi-fold windows, wall banquette seating and blackboard menus. The menu has a mix of classic French dishes including a twice baked goats cheese soufflé, bouillabaisse, seared venison, rib of beef for two, duck confit, fish of the day and classic grilled steak served with Café de Paris butter and French fries. Refresh with cocktails, champagne, a selection of beers, or still wines from Australia, New Zealand or France.

Opening as a guest house when it was built in the 1920s, Barrenjoey House has long been a feature of the Palm Beach peninsula. The restaurant has been known for many years as a legendary long lunch venue,… where diners can look out to the westerly setting sun over Pittwater. Barrenjoey House has recently been acquired by The Boathouse Group, who operate several other venues on the Northern Beaches, and the new-look Barrenjoey House will open in time for the summer 2018/19 season offering reservations for dinners (unlike their other walk-in casual venues The Boathouse Palm Beach and Whale Beach Kiosk). Stay tuned!

A unique Pizza cafe based on Sydney’s northern beaches, a large variety of delicious yet unusual recipe’s. We are Cranzgots ~ lived by the locals

Tucked away up a flight of stairs, Avalon Chinese Restaurant has been serving Cantonese-style food for more than 25 years. Select either dine in, take-away or home delivery for such classics as san choy… bow, Cantonese roast duck, or lamb with hoi sin on pancakes.

Taking its inspiration from coastal Mexico, this prime corner restaurant in Avalon village opened in 2017. Locally-sourced seafood and organic wines are a focus for the team. An extensive cocktail list… can be enjoyed alongside pork belly tacos, crispy soft-shell crab tostadas or grilled baby octopus.

Skippered Yacht Charters & Overnight Escapes Discover the magic of Pittwater aboard a private French yacht, whether for a few hours or a relaxing overnight stay. A fully-qualified host will skipper… the boat, allowing you to simply sit back and enjoy every moment. Explore the stunning bays and beaches of Pittwater, and if you’re feeling adventurous, our skipper can guide you through the sails—or take care of it all for you. Experience Highlights: Bask in 360° waterfront views of Pittwater while sipping your favourite bubbly. Swim in the crystal-clear waters at a secluded beach. Enjoy the ultimate relaxation, watching the world drift by with a drink in hand. Set the stage for romance with a breathtaking sunset over Kur-ring-gai Chase National Park, where the skies light up in hues of blue, orange, and red. Personalise Your Experience: BYO food and drinks, or let us cater for you with an array of platters, including seafood, cold meats, vegetarian, and cheese & antipasto options. Add fresh oysters, premium champagne (Veuve Clicquot, Bollinger, Moet & Chandon, Janz), or a beautiful bouquet of flowers for an extra touch of luxury. Enhance Your Getaway: Stay locally with Beach Stays at a variety of holiday homes across the Northern Beaches. Fly in by seaplane—we’ll be ready to meet you when you land.

Australia’s second-oldest national park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a recreational favourite for locals and visitors alike. This large park, located in Sydney’s north, lets you feel at one with… nature without leaving the Sydney metropolitan area. A heritage-listed park, it combines important history with scenic beauty. Winding creeks and stretches of ocean meet rainforest and eucalypts, rocky cliffs and mangroves. Spend your time exploring walking tracks, mountain biking trails, breathtaking lookouts and significant Aboriginal sites. You’ll still have plenty of time to discover its marinas, cafes, kiosks and well-equipped picnic areas.

The culture at this end of the Peninsula tends to revolve around healthy living, the outdoors and wellbeing. It’s where people connect over their chai, check out the waves, silently reflect in yoga,… or get lost (in the best possible way) on walking tracks. Added to this outdoor sunshine lifestyle, this end of the beaches has also long been known for its bohemian lifestyle — a gathering place for artists, creatives and thinkers to virtually ‘drop out’ of mainstream living and thrive in an almost parallel universe, contrasted against the stress of the big smoke. This enclave is known as ‘around the bends’ (north past the winding bends of Bilgola) — and locals and holidaymakers wouldn’t have it any other way! Yogis on holiday may enjoy the opportunity to drop into a casual yoga class. Try Palm Beach Yoga which is located above The Boathouse and overlooks Pittwater. You can also try The Avalon Yoga Co-op which also welcomes casual visits and is a collaboration between a number of northern beaches yoga teachers. On the fourth Sunday of every month between 9am and 3pm, Palm Beach hosts markets at Governor Philip Park where you can shop beneath the shade of beautiful Norfolk Pines for clothing, jewellery, handcrafted items and homewares.  Try a snack or meal on offer from various food vendors. If you bring a picnic rug, take the short stroll over to either the ocean or Pittwater side where you can feast overlooking the water, or stay close by to hear the live music featured each market day. The market has been running since 2008 and is open each month of the year.  

Avalon Beach RSL Club is an RSL with a refreshing difference. The venue boasts a range of offerings and activities to members and guests of all demographics. Our restaurant, Bistro 61, is open 7 days and… offers house made fresh modern Australian cuisine with relaxed alfresco seating available. The venue also has a large playground just for the kids. There are two bars over two levels with 20 beers on tap, an extensive wine selection and creative cocktails. Weekly promotions and entertainment include live music, poker, giveaways, raffles, pool tables, meal offers, huge outdoor TV, trivia, all live sport, TAB facilities and more. If you’re after live music, Surf Lounge Sessions take place every Saturday night at Avalon Beach RSL Club, where live musicians perform. Dress regulations apply so please check the website for the dress code and also to see who is performing.

Conveniently located just a short stroll from Palm Beach Wharf, the local RSL at Palm Beach has a bistro as well as Tab and Keno. The beer garden and bird aviary is a great place in summer to kick back… with friends over a drink or two.

Running since 1955, Avalon cinemas provide a fabulously retro and old-fashioned movie experience. Red letters on a white billboard above the entrance display the day’s films, showing in either of the… two theatres. The cinema is a contrast to the mega complexes found in high-traffic urban locations. There are usually about six films showing throughout the week and they tend to be arthouse or indie genre films rather than the mainstream blockbusters.

Whale Beach is said to be named following a whale beaching here. It’s a 600m stretch of beach and tends to be a lot less busy than Palm Beach, although it can still draw a crowd in the peak of summer. Facilities: … Disabled toilets Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers

Station Beach has to be one of the prettiest places on the Peninsula. It’s also known as Barrenjoey Beach, extending between the northern side of Observation Point and Barrenjoey Head. The Palm Beach… Golf Course runs alongside the beach. It runs for 1.5km and from here you can access the popular café ‘The Boathouse’, and if you walk to the northern end, you will find the track to the lighthouse. This beach is not patrolled. It has calm waters and is ideal for lazing about or playing with kids. Facilities: Barbeques Picnic area Public toilets

Seen as the jewel in the crown, this is Sydney’s northernmost beach at the end of the northern beaches Peninsula. As well as its palms, it is famous as being home to the fictional ‘Summer Bay’ –… the beach featured in the popular TV series Home and Away. Facilities: Disabled toilets Pay and display parking Picnic area Public toilets Rock pool Showers

At the east-facing northern end of Palm Beach, there’s a 600m stretch of coastland with a dramatic rock cliff as a backdrop, on which Barrenjoey Lighthouse sits. This end of the beach also features sand… dunes with natural vegetation. Facilities: Barbeques Disabled toilets Electric BBQ Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rock pool Showers Surf lifesaving club

North Avalon, also referred to as ‘Little Av or LA’ by locals, breaks along the north headland and a nearby sandbank, attracting lots of surfers. Facilities: Disabled toilets Parking Public… toilets Showers

Great Mackerel Beach is located on the western foreshore of Pittwater and is accessed by a ferry service from Palm Beach. You’ll feel like you’ve escaped to another world here. As well as the calm… beach side, there’s a lagoon section where kids can wade (under supervision). There are no shops here so you need to bring all your own supplies.

This calm bay on the Pittwater side of the Peninsula is accessed off Delecta Avenue and is a popular place for families and couples – lunch picnics or to watch the sunset over the still waters of Pittwater.… Parking is limited so plan ahead. Facilities: Barbeques Disabled toilets Parking Picnic area Picnic tables Public toilets Showers Viewing platform

Tucked away in a tropical enclave, Bilgola Beach is somewhat off the beaten track, accessed by a road known as the Bilgola Serpentine. This surf beach is 500m long and faces south east. Parking is limited.… There is a café here but no other shops. Facilities: Canteen Disabled toilets Public toilets Rockpool Showers

Avalon (or ‘Av’ as it’s known to locals) is a surf beach that spans 500m, with a south east aspect. The beach is bordered by 60m high sandstone cliff rock platforms. It’s just a short stroll from… the beach into the Avalon village. Facilities: Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers Surf lifesaving club

At Careel Bay is the most significant area of estuarine wetlands in the Northern Beaches. It contains a combination of natural features, rare in the Sydney region, that provide habitat for a variety of… marine life and bird species. Birdwatchers will love the walking track and boardwalk that provide easy access for visitors. A total of 116 bird species have been recorded at Careel Bay including the endangered Bush Stone-Curlew along with the Mangrove Gerygone and international migratory species such as the Eastern Curlew, Whimbrel and Bar-tailed Godwit.

The culture at this end of the Peninsula tends to revolve around healthy living, the outdoors and wellbeing. It’s where people connect over their chai, check out the waves, silently reflect in yoga,… or get lost (in the best possible way) on walking tracks. Added to this outdoor sunshine lifestyle, this end of the beaches has also long been known for its bohemian lifestyle — a gathering place for artists, creatives and thinkers to virtually ‘drop out’ of mainstream living and thrive in an almost parallel universe, contrasted against the stress of the big smoke. This enclave is known as ‘around the bends’ (north past the winding bends of Bilgola) — and locals and holidaymakers wouldn’t have it any other way! Yogis on holiday may enjoy the opportunity to drop into a casual yoga class. Try Palm Beach Yoga which is located above The Boathouse and overlooks Pittwater. You can also try The Avalon Yoga Co-op which also welcomes casual visits and is a collaboration between a number of northern beaches yoga teachers. On the fourth Sunday of every month between 9am and 3pm, Palm Beach hosts markets at Governor Philip Park where you can shop beneath the shade of beautiful Norfolk Pines for clothing, jewellery, handcrafted items and homewares.  Try a snack or meal on offer from various food vendors. If you bring a picnic rug, take the short stroll over to either the ocean or Pittwater side where you can feast overlooking the water, or stay close by to hear the live music featured each market day. The market has been running since 2008 and is open each month of the year.  

Avalon Beach RSL Club is an RSL with a refreshing difference. The venue boasts a range of offerings and activities to members and guests of all demographics. Our restaurant, Bistro 61, is open 7 days and… offers house made fresh modern Australian cuisine with relaxed alfresco seating available. The venue also has a large playground just for the kids. There are two bars over two levels with 20 beers on tap, an extensive wine selection and creative cocktails. Weekly promotions and entertainment include live music, poker, giveaways, raffles, pool tables, meal offers, huge outdoor TV, trivia, all live sport, TAB facilities and more. If you’re after live music, Surf Lounge Sessions take place every Saturday night at Avalon Beach RSL Club, where live musicians perform. Dress regulations apply so please check the website for the dress code and also to see who is performing.

Conveniently located just a short stroll from Palm Beach Wharf, the local RSL at Palm Beach has a bistro as well as Tab and Keno. The beer garden and bird aviary is a great place in summer to kick back… with friends over a drink or two.

Running since 1955, Avalon cinemas provide a fabulously retro and old-fashioned movie experience. Red letters on a white billboard above the entrance display the day’s films, showing in either of the… two theatres. The cinema is a contrast to the mega complexes found in high-traffic urban locations. There are usually about six films showing throughout the week and they tend to be arthouse or indie genre films rather than the mainstream blockbusters.

Australia’s second-oldest national park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a recreational favourite for locals and visitors alike. This large park, located in Sydney’s north, lets you feel at one with… nature without leaving the Sydney metropolitan area. A heritage-listed park, it combines important history with scenic beauty. Winding creeks and stretches of ocean meet rainforest and eucalypts, rocky cliffs and mangroves. Spend your time exploring walking tracks, mountain biking trails, breathtaking lookouts and significant Aboriginal sites. You’ll still have plenty of time to discover its marinas, cafes, kiosks and well-equipped picnic areas.

Whale Beach is said to be named following a whale beaching here. It’s a 600m stretch of beach and tends to be a lot less busy than Palm Beach, although it can still draw a crowd in the peak of summer. Facilities: … Disabled toilets Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers

At Careel Bay is the most significant area of estuarine wetlands in the Northern Beaches. It contains a combination of natural features, rare in the Sydney region, that provide habitat for a variety of… marine life and bird species. Birdwatchers will love the walking track and boardwalk that provide easy access for visitors. A total of 116 bird species have been recorded at Careel Bay including the endangered Bush Stone-Curlew along with the Mangrove Gerygone and international migratory species such as the Eastern Curlew, Whimbrel and Bar-tailed Godwit.

Skippered Yacht Charters & Overnight Escapes Discover the magic of Pittwater aboard a private French yacht, whether for a few hours or a relaxing overnight stay. A fully-qualified host will skipper… the boat, allowing you to simply sit back and enjoy every moment. Explore the stunning bays and beaches of Pittwater, and if you’re feeling adventurous, our skipper can guide you through the sails—or take care of it all for you. Experience Highlights: Bask in 360° waterfront views of Pittwater while sipping your favourite bubbly. Swim in the crystal-clear waters at a secluded beach. Enjoy the ultimate relaxation, watching the world drift by with a drink in hand. Set the stage for romance with a breathtaking sunset over Kur-ring-gai Chase National Park, where the skies light up in hues of blue, orange, and red. Personalise Your Experience: BYO food and drinks, or let us cater for you with an array of platters, including seafood, cold meats, vegetarian, and cheese & antipasto options. Add fresh oysters, premium champagne (Veuve Clicquot, Bollinger, Moet & Chandon, Janz), or a beautiful bouquet of flowers for an extra touch of luxury. Enhance Your Getaway: Stay locally with Beach Stays at a variety of holiday homes across the Northern Beaches. Fly in by seaplane—we’ll be ready to meet you when you land.

Whale Beach is said to be named following a whale beaching here. It’s a 600m stretch of beach and tends to be a lot less busy than Palm Beach, although it can still draw a crowd in the peak of summer. Facilities: … Disabled toilets Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers

Station Beach has to be one of the prettiest places on the Peninsula. It’s also known as Barrenjoey Beach, extending between the northern side of Observation Point and Barrenjoey Head. The Palm Beach… Golf Course runs alongside the beach. It runs for 1.5km and from here you can access the popular café ‘The Boathouse’, and if you walk to the northern end, you will find the track to the lighthouse. This beach is not patrolled. It has calm waters and is ideal for lazing about or playing with kids. Facilities: Barbeques Picnic area Public toilets

Seen as the jewel in the crown, this is Sydney’s northernmost beach at the end of the northern beaches Peninsula. As well as its palms, it is famous as being home to the fictional ‘Summer Bay’ –… the beach featured in the popular TV series Home and Away. Facilities: Disabled toilets Pay and display parking Picnic area Public toilets Rock pool Showers

At the east-facing northern end of Palm Beach, there’s a 600m stretch of coastland with a dramatic rock cliff as a backdrop, on which Barrenjoey Lighthouse sits. This end of the beach also features sand… dunes with natural vegetation. Facilities: Barbeques Disabled toilets Electric BBQ Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rock pool Showers Surf lifesaving club

North Avalon, also referred to as ‘Little Av or LA’ by locals, breaks along the north headland and a nearby sandbank, attracting lots of surfers. Facilities: Disabled toilets Parking Public… toilets Showers

Great Mackerel Beach is located on the western foreshore of Pittwater and is accessed by a ferry service from Palm Beach. You’ll feel like you’ve escaped to another world here. As well as the calm… beach side, there’s a lagoon section where kids can wade (under supervision). There are no shops here so you need to bring all your own supplies.

This calm bay on the Pittwater side of the Peninsula is accessed off Delecta Avenue and is a popular place for families and couples – lunch picnics or to watch the sunset over the still waters of Pittwater.… Parking is limited so plan ahead. Facilities: Barbeques Disabled toilets Parking Picnic area Picnic tables Public toilets Showers Viewing platform

Tucked away in a tropical enclave, Bilgola Beach is somewhat off the beaten track, accessed by a road known as the Bilgola Serpentine. This surf beach is 500m long and faces south east. Parking is limited.… There is a café here but no other shops. Facilities: Canteen Disabled toilets Public toilets Rockpool Showers

Avalon (or ‘Av’ as it’s known to locals) is a surf beach that spans 500m, with a south east aspect. The beach is bordered by 60m high sandstone cliff rock platforms. It’s just a short stroll from… the beach into the Avalon village. Facilities: Picnic area Playground Public toilets Rockpool Showers Surf lifesaving club