Sydney is made special by so many incredible things: The diverse #food, #culture, unbelievable #views of the skyline, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge, incredible #surf, thriving city life, you get the idea. But if you’re looking to explore somewhere a little further afield without committing to a full weekend or overnight stay, then look no further. Introducing: Palm Beach.
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GETTING THERE
Located just a 53-minute drive from Sydney (2 hours by public transport), and a suburb within the Northern Beaches (technically the northernmost point of Sydney), Palm Beach is within easy reach. If you’re travelling via public transport, you’ll be travelling via bus from Wynyard to Warriewood, and changing to another bus to finish the journey. Although you’re extending your travel time, this can often be a cheaper option and can allow for more carefree travel without worrying about car rental. If you’ve travelled by public transport you’ll be dropped at the top of Barrenjoey Road, besides the ferry port; with all options being just a short walk to the beaches.
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THINGS TO DO
Beaches
Central Palm Beach is home to four main beaches (not inclusive of Whale Beach): Palm Beach and North Palm Beach on the Eastern edge of the peninsular, whilst Station Beach, and Barrenjoey Beach run parallel facing inland towards Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. You’ll undoubtedly find all of these #beaches packed out on summer days with not so much in the way of overhead coverage, so plan ahead and pack a cap and some sun cream. The #beaches themselves are spectacular and whether you’re looking out to the Pacific or inland at the #National #Park it’s easy to forget you’re just a hop, skip, and jump from the #city.
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Hikes
Regardless of which beach you’re on you’ll undoubtedly see the spectacular Barrenjoey Head, home to Barrenjoey Lighthouse standing at the tip of the Northern Beaches. This is a popular #viewpoint and #trail, with #views of the shouldering four #beaches all the way down towards Whale Beach and is a must if at Palm Beach.
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The hike itself, starting at the north end of Station Beach (this will be sign-posted) is marked as a Grade 2 or 3, and should take around 25-30 minutes (1.2km) each way. After 100m of the hike you’ll meet a crossroads where you can choose between either the Access Trail (Grade 2, 800m, 15 mins) or the Smugglers Trail (Grade 3, 400m, 10 mins, steps included) allowing for varied difficulty levels. Along the routes, you’ll find some great little #picnic spots, although be warned these don’t accommodate for water or bathroom breaks - make sure you’re up-to-date on both before you start your #hike!
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If the walk hasn’t taken your breath away by the end, then I’m sure the view from the lighthouse will
If the walk hasn’t taken your breath away by the end, then I’m sure the view from the lighthouse will. It’s a great spot for #sunrise, midday, or even a #sunset hike, and is well regarded as one of the best urban spots in New South Wales to view a dreamy night sky (Northern Beaches council even bided for it to be the first urban night sky park!). It’s definitely a highlight, and a great place to create some unforgettable photographs and memories.
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FOOD AND DRINK
Whether it’s been sunbathing, heading up the lighthouse, or maybe even a bit of both you’ll most definitely want to grab a bite at the start or end of your Palm Beach day out. Here are a couple spots definitely worth checking out:
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The Boathouse Palm Beach
The Boathouse Palm Beach is one of seven venues sharing the same name and a member of the larger The Boathouse Group - and is another must if in Palm Beach. They have spectacular #Breakfast and #Lunch menus, and are known for their fish and chips, a perfect way to end a long day out before hopping in the car or bus home!
The chips here are absolutely to die for, and if you’ve experienced them you’ll be happy to know they are accessible in the city at The Boathouse Shelly Beach, The Boathouse Balmoral Beach, and The Boathouse Rose Bay!
Dunes Palm Beach
Dunes Palm Beach describe itself as a “laid-back, beach-friendly take on informal all-day dining”, and it’s easy to see why. With a sophisticated menu and a #relaxed vibe, in a beautiful setting in the #centre of Palm Beach, it’s the perfect stop if you’re looking for a longer #lunch or #dinner service.
Barrenjoey House
Barrenjoey House, also part of The Boathouse Group, has been a staple of Palm Beach for over 100 years. The venue is situated on the water's edge on Barrenjoey Road beside the ferry port, with an accessibly large car park in front and a view of the passing boats. The menu itself has a classical combination of #food from the sea, as well as some fantastic #vegan, #vegetarian, and #meat offerings presented with elegance. Additionally, they have some great weekly specials, including AU$35 steak and a glass of Shiraz or Boathouse #beer every Tuesday, available for both #lunch and #dinner!
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FINAL THOUGHTS
With such close proximity to Sydney and easy access via public transport or car, Palm Beach is a must from us at World Locals. It’s got #hikes, #viewpoints, beautiful #beaches, and great spots for a bite or a cold one - is there a better way to spend a Saturday or Sunday?
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