Northern Beaches

Where laidback surfing culture meets urban cool, this is paradise in Sydney’s north.

Summer vibes year-round, Sydney’s Northern Beaches is an easy-going coastal destination with a whole lot of urban cool. From Manly to Palm Beach, there is so much to explore, on and off the land. Surfing beaches and swimming holes galore, cycling and walking trails that lead to scenic lookouts and on-trend food and dining hotspots. It really doesn’t get much better than this. 
 
Bounded by the Pacific Ocean and Pittwater, the Northern Beaches is a paradise for those who live by the tide. Over twenty surfing beaches line the peninsula, so pick up some essential skills at Manly Surf School and work your way up to Avalon Beach for some of Sydney’s best swells. Pittwater has water sports and national parklands in spades, with off-the-grid hangouts in the far reaches of Ku-ring-gai National Park. Coastal walks are also in abundance, from North Head in Manly to Barrenjoey Lookout in Palm Beach, there are jaw-dropping views at every turn. 
 
The health food trend has hit the Northern beaches in a big way. On-trend cafés, eateries and waterfront dining with farm-to-plate ethos are a standout, while the local fish n’ chip shop with ocean-fresh seafood is a beachside staple. But when it comes to brunch (a favourite pastime), none other do it quite like the cafés of Newport, Avalon and Palm Beach. As for fashion and homeware boutiques, Newport and Avalon are at the top of their game. 
 
There’s no denying that this stunning oceanfront locale is a peaceful escape that comes complete with every possible convenience.

Latest articles.

Hiking trails on the Northern Beaches.
Thursday, September 26, 2019

Coastline, waterfalls, rain forests and jaw-dropping views at every turn.

Read More
Best cafes on the Northern Beaches.
Thursday, September 26, 2019

Stretching all the way from Manly to Palm Beach, the Northern Beaches have plenty to brag about...

Read More

Explore the area.

Palm Beach
Aussie beach life that those from far-flung places can only dream about
A beachside town with a laidback attitude, Palm Beach is the northernmost point of the peninsula. But why waste time driving here when you can just as easily hop into a seaplane (or a Northern Beaches airport shuttle). Waterfront cafés, beaches, the iconic Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and ferries to remote islands are just some of the drawcards.
Barrenjoey Headland
The jewel of the Northern Beaches
Sitting at the tip of the Northern Beaches peninsula, Barrenjoey Headland is a must-do. Even if you have to crawl your way up the steep incline, this unmissable walk to the iconic Barrenjoey Lighthouse will forever be a highlight of your Northern Beaches adventure. Thanks to uninterrupted, 360-degree views of the coastline, Pittwater and Ku-ring-gai National Park.
Pittwater
A natural wonderland, on and off the land
Take a break from the waves and explore the many bays, coves and inlets of Pittwater. A popular sailing and kayaking spot, there are many opportunities to get away from it all. Our advice? Take a day trip to one of the many outposts in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Coasters Retreat, Great Mackerel Beach or Ettalong can be reached by ferry or private vessel. Patonga is also a great day-trip at the southernmost point of the Central Coast.
Newport
From the beach to the bay, this is one coastal chic hangout
Newport’s village alone is enough to draw you here, with its roster of cool cafés, fashion and homeware stores. But this locale is known for so much more, surfing beaches, rockpools, and the highly revered Northern Beaches dining and drinking hotspot, The Newport.
Avalon
Giving urban cool a whole new meaning.
Quite the achiever, Avalon packs a whole lot in. From beachside hangouts and on-trend cafés to fashionable boutiques and homeware stores. Plus, it has direct access to Pittwater, coastal walks and a surfing beach with rock pools.
Explore Properties in this Area

Other destinations.

Byron Bay, NSW
This Insta-famous destination is one of Australia’s most talked-about (and visited) beachside towns, and rightfully so.
Central Coast, NSW
Beach towns to roaming countryside, the Central Coast is an outdoor lover’s dream.
Hunter Valley, NSW
A place of verdant valleys peppered with ancient vineyards, the Hunter Valley is renowned for its world-class cellar doors and gourmet dining.
Jervis Bay, NSW
Pristine beaches and charming seaside towns, Jervis Bay is the perfect coastal escape.
Lake Macquarie, NSW
From the coast to the bush, the Lake Macquarie region boasts beautiful natural surrounds for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
Lennox Head, NSW
Lush bushland, crashing swells and easy-going vibes, Lennox Head is a beachside town with a whole lot of chill factor.
Newcastle, NSW
From the city to the coast to the glorious countryside, the Newcastle region is a place of beauty and intrigue.
Port Stephens, NSW
A little slice of paradise, Port Stephens is full of natural goodness. It's where time moves a little slower, and adventure awaits.
Cairns Beaches, QLD
When it comes to Far North Queensland, Cairns’ Northern Beaches offers some of the most idyllic surrounds, from the coastline to the rainforest.
Cairns City, QLD
The gateway to Queensland’s tropical north, Cairns has always been a crowd pleaser.
Palm Cove, QLD
Your guide to the best places to eat, drink and explore when visiting beautiful Palm Cove.
Adelaide City, SA
Wine country to one side and beaches to the other, Adelaide City is an easy-going destination that charms, every which way you turn.
Glenelg, SA
One of Adelaide’s most popular beachside locations, Glenelg lays claim to being a holiday destination with something for everyone.