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THE NORTHERN BEACHES
On the "other side"of the bridge you will find a beautiful coastline that stretches from Manly up to Palm Beach. Home to some of the best beaches in Sydney, the Northern beaches reflect a far more laid-back version of Sydney, with effortless access to the most incredible coastline and vibrant local communities.
Where to stay?
On the beach
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Freshwater
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Manly
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Dee Why
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Curl Curl
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Collaroy
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Narrabeen
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Queenscliff
Further North
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Palm Beach
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Newport
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Mona Vale
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Avalon Beach
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Warriewood
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​Whale Beach​​
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Bilgola
Transport to the city
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If you are staying in the Northern Beaches, the Manly ferries depart from the wharfs every 15 minutes, with the ride taking 20 minutes from Manly to Circular Quay.
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The double decker B1 bus departs from every main Northern Beaches suburb and takes you directly to Wynyard Station (around 40 mins).
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...Or there are always plenty of Ubers!
What to do?
On the Northern Beaches, you’ll discover a coastal paradise defined by its stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking world-class surf breaks, serene rock pools, or charming beachside cafés, the Northern Beaches offer a unique blend of relaxation and adventure that’s hard to beat.
Manly, where the ferry ride is as iconic as the destination itself. With the perfect mix of beachy vibes, laneway cafes and bars. Stroll along the Corso, surf at Manly Beach, or grab some fish and chips while enjoying stunning oceans views.
The Cumberland, Manly’s best-kept secret, is a speakeasy bar hidden behind a vintage fridge door. Cascade down the spiral staircase into a cozy room with craft cocktails, and a slice of 1920s charm right in the heart of Manly... we will say no more (but you need to book well in advance).
Manly Pavilion is a chic waterfront venue combining timeless elegance with stunning views of North Harbour. Perfect for a special meal or celebration, it offers a modern menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re dining on the terrace or enjoying a drink by the water, Manly Pavilion delivers an unforgettable experience
The Manly Skiff Club is an off-the-track waterfront gem offering stunning views of Manly Harbour and a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. Enjoy fresh local seafood, classic Aussie dishes, and a cold drink while soaking in the gorgeous setting and watching the boats sail by (just don't forget to bring your ID).
North Head Lookout offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect spot to take in the stunning coastline, watch the ships sail by, or enjoy a peaceful walk through the surrounding bushland with the local echidnas. Just make sure Zain isn't holding a coffee when he uses the binoculars.
Norma’s Deli in Manly is an underground hidden gem where you can grab mouthwatering sandwiches, fresh salads, and coffee that will rival Melbourne! With its modern art deco design, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch.
The newly renovated Felons Brewing on Manly Wharf brings waterfront vibes, fresh craft beer, and stunning water views together in one unbeatable spot. Whether you're sipping a spicy marg in the sunshine or enjoying a casual bite, it’s the perfect place to soak up Manly’s lively atmosphere. This is where our Thursday night drinks will be held too!
Dare we say the best croissants on the northern beaches? Although difficult to find, Rollers Bakehouse is worth getting lost down the hidden laneways of Manly. We would highly recommend the pistachio raspberry croissant!
A protected marine reserve, Shelly beach has one of the most active marine ecosystems in Sydney. After a swim in the protected reef, grab a coffee at the Boathouse Café and soak in the stunning views. Whether you’re snorkelling, sunbathing, or enjoying the laid-back vibe, it’s a must-visit spot on the Northern Beaches.
Without a doubt, I Gladiatori Osteria Romana in Freshwater has the best pizza we have EVER eaten. Yep. Using pinsa as the bases, the dough is slowly proofed for 72 hours, creating an easily digestible dough made of an 80/20 water to flour ratio. No idea what this all means, but if you need to eat - make sure you eat one of their pinsas. Annabelle HIGHLY recommends the parmigiana pinsa, and Zain's go-to is the calabrese pinsa. All pasta is also hand made, need we say more.
Only a 2 minute walk to Freshwater Beach, Harbord Hotel is the perfect place for a sun-soaked afternoon with a fresh drink and divine food. Spread out on the patio outside, or head indoors for the restaurant and sports bar.
Harbord Diggers offers sweeping ocean views nestled between Curl Curl and Freshwater. Enjoy the local fish & chips or fresh Vietnamese to accompany one of the many flavours of happy hour margs. It's the perfect spot to take in the coastal breeze and soak up the sun.
What do Mariah Carey, Avril Lavigne and Orlando Bloom all have in common? Their ex private chef opened up Tommy Panini in Brookvale. Served on freshly fired fermented bread, the once popup-now-permanent shop hole in the wall only offers a handful of options - but we would highly recommend literally all of them. Hot tip - call ahead to pre-order when they open first thing in the morning as they sell out almost straight away.
The brewery district in Brookvale is a craft-lover’s paradise, brimming with vibrant breweries and distilleries. Explore local favourites like Freshwater Brewing Co. for laid-back pints, 4 Pines Truck Bar for classic craft beers, Manly Spirits Co. for artisanal vodka and gins, and Bucketty’s for live music and creative brews. It's the perfect walkable district to enjoy a drink and discover the Northern Beaches' thriving craft scene.
South Curl Curl Beach, a slice of coastal perfection, is where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. It’s always a treat to spot whales from the shore - no wonder it’s our favourite beach in Sydney and where we've managed to host the wedding recovery!
Corretto, aka, 'coffee till cocktails' was our local Dee Why gem. Perfect for a big brekkie after a morning swim, or the biggest range of happy hour cocktails after work!
The Dee Why Rock Pool is another local gem and favourite, perfect for a few refreshing swimming laps or taking in stunning ocean views. It’s also where Annabelle has started most of her Sydney mornings off with a sunrise dip!
Perched above the shops on our fave Dee Why's beachfront, Ullo Pizza & Wine is the perfect place for a sunset Italian feast. Enjoy happy hour from 3-5:30pm every day, offering $10 cocktails and $8 beer schoolers or glasses of wine.
No surprise this one made the list. We dare you to find a better RSL in Australia! Although we are quite biased, the Dee Why RSL is our ultimate favourite, offering live entertainment and great food. Choose to grab your food from one of the six restaurants or pretend to enjoy the NRL in the sports bar. You will find us here at least once a week, and you're absolutely guaranteed to find Andy in the pokies anytime she is in town!
Long Reef Golf Course offers breathtaking coastal views and a links course game like no other. It's not only the fairways that hug the headland, there is also Annabelle's favourite walking track! Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, whales breaching offshore or Zain yelling out "four".
The Upper Crust bakery in Collaroy will serve you one of the best pies you'll ever have. Prepare to line up during lunch time - but it's definitely worth it. HIGHLY recommend trying the butter chicken or the Thai veg!
The Collaroy, our local, serves up the most delicious spicy margs, wood fire pizzas, and an unbeatable views of the ocean. Embrace the bustle of the sports bar downstairs, or head upstairs for the restaurant and bar area with the stunning views!
The Surf Deck in Collaroy is where delicious dining meets unbeatable beachfront views. Perched right on the sand, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood, tiki-themed cocktails, and laid-back vibes while watching the waves roll in.
Kayaking on Narrabeen Lake is a peaceful yet exciting way to explore one of Sydney’s most tranquil spots. Paddle through peaceful waters, surrounded by lush nature, and enjoy a scenic adventure whether you're a beginner or a seasoned kayaker.
Our local! Conveniently located at the end of our street, Cabana Beach Kiosk at the South Narrabeen Surf Life Saving club gets paid a few visits a week from us. Located right on the water, it's the best place for a post-swim bite. You won't regret ordering the brekkie burger or banana bread, alongside their coffee that is absolutely Melbourne-worthy!
Located across from Narrabeen Beach, Fat Pomelo is the latest venture to hit the northers shores. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed meal with friends or a fun family gathering, Fat Pomelo offers vibrant Asian flavours in a laid-back beachside setting.
Mona Social and Golf Course in Mona Vale is the perfect blend of sport and relaxation, offering a laid-back vibe with beautiful views over the course. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal at the clubhouse or hitting a few balls on the green, it's a great spot to unwind alongside the house DJs.
The Newport Arms is a Sydney icon and one of our absolute favourites, offering a fun atmosphere and breathtaking views of Pittwater. Sip on a spicy margarita while relaxing on the expansive outdoor deck, or indulge in fresh, seasonal dishes – it’s the perfect place to unwind. With live music, great company, and a buzzing vibe, it’s always full of energy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable time by the water.
And last but not least, at the tippy top of Sydney's Northern Beaches we have the Palm Beach - where natural beauty meets laid-back luxury. Keep an eye out for the iconic Home and Away filming spots and Athol in the crowds asking for autographs. Enjoy a hike up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse, soak up the sun on the golden sands and marvel in the stunning mansions and architecture along the coast.
CITY SIDE
If you’re planning to stay on the city side of Sydney Harbour Bridge or want to immerse yourself in all that the city has to offer, you’ll find an abundance of vibrant neighbourhoods and exciting activities. Here’s another list courtesy of Chat GPT with fantastic places to stay and must-see attractions to help you make the most of your visit.
Where to stay?
Close to the beach
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Bondi
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Coogee
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Clovelly
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Rose Bay
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Double Bay
Close to the city
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Surry Hills
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Paddington
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Darlinghurst
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Potts Point
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CBD
Transport to the Northern Beaches
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If you are staying in the city, the Manly ferries depart from wharfs 2 or 3 every 15 minutes, with the ride taking 20 minutes from Circular Quay to Manly.
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The double decker B1 bus departs from Wynyard Station and takes you directly to the main suburbs of the Northern Beaches (around 40 mins).
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...Or there are always plenty of Ubers!
What to do?
On the city side of the bridge, you’ll discover a vibrant urban hub brimming with energy and iconic landmarks. While the area might not boast the sprawling coastlines of the Northern Beaches, it more than makes up for it with world-class attractions, a bustling metro network, and a dynamic mix of culture, dining, and entertainment.
The Jam Bar on George Street is a vibrant spot known for its eclectic atmosphere and creative cocktails. Whether you’re popping in for a quick drink or enjoying a night out with friends, the relaxed vibe and funky décor make it a great place to unwind in the heart of the city.
The Royal Botanic Garden is a lush oasis in the heart of Sydney, offering peaceful pathways and stunning views of the harbour. Be sure to check out The Calyx, a spectacular glasshouse that hosts ever-changing floral displays and unique plant exhibitions. Whether you're strolling through themed gardens or taking in the breathtaking scenery, it's the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
MuMu in the city is a vibrant spot that brings bold flavours and a fun atmosphere together. With its modern decor and creative menu, it’s perfect for grabbing a bite with friends or enjoying a night out with cocktails that pack a punch. We would recommend the fried eggplant or the sweet and sour pork! Whether you're in the mood for tapas-style dishes or fresh, seasonal bites, MuMu offers a unique dining experience right in the heart of Sydney.
The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) is a captivating space that showcases innovative art in all its forms. Don’t miss the hidden underground bunker, a unique and immersive part of the museum that offers a fascinating twist on contemporary art. With ever-changing exhibits and cutting-edge installations, MAMA is a must-visit for anyone seeking an inspiring and thought-provoking experience.
Embrace the full tourist mode with a sunset cocktail sessions at the Opera Bar. It's hard to find a better backdrop than a bar between the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. With its vibrant atmosphere, live music and unbeatable location right by the water and ferry ports, it’s the perfect place to soak up the iconic Sydney skyline.
The Gap is Sydney’s ultimate clifftop escape, where rugged coastline meets crashing waves in a spectacular display of nature. Pair your visit with fish and chips from the famous Doyle’s and a ferry ride home for the perfect Watsons Bay experience.
Mjølner is a bold and atmospheric dining spot that brings Nordic flavours and a touch of Viking flair. With its rustic decor, hearty menu, and impressive selection of mead and cocktails, it’s perfect for a memorable night. Viking staff may encourage you to do a shot of mead upon arrival to toast to the viking gods, as well as choosing your "weapon" to eat with. So, whether you’re carving into a succulent chunk of meat or sipping on a crafted drink, Mjølner offers a dining experience that’s as unique as it is indulgent, right in the heart of Sydney. (Although good luck finding the door...)
The Meat & Wine Co Safari is a sophisticated dining destination that combines premium cuts of meat with rich African-inspired flavors. With its warm, earthy decor and expertly curated wine list, it’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or an indulgent night out. Whether you’re savouring a perfectly cooked steak or sampling one of their authentic African dishes, this restaurant delivers a memorable experience in the heart of the city.
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