Pittwater

Pittwater is a stunning drowned river valley on Sydney's Northern Beaches, where the Hawkesbury River meets the sea. This serene waterway is framed by the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park on one side and the leafy suburbs of Avalon, Newport, and Palm Beach on the other. The area is a paradise for sailors, kayakers, and nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape from the city buzz. With its calm, sparkling waters and bush-clad hills, Pittwater feels a world away from Sydney's urban core, yet it's just a 45-minute drive north of the CBD.

Highlights & What to See

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Explore Aboriginal rock engravings at Basin Track, hike the Resolute Track for panoramic water views, or paddle a kayak to secluded beaches like The Basin.
• Palm Beach – The iconic sand spit at the northern end of Pittwater is famous for its surf beach and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk. It's also the setting for TV's Home and Away.
• Scotland Island – A quirky, car-free community accessible only by ferry. Wander the quiet bush tracks, visit the community hall, and enjoy the island's laid-back vibe.
• Water-based activities – Hire a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or sailing boat from Church Point or Newport. The sheltered waters are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
• Bouddi National Park – On the opposite shore, this park offers the Bouddi Coastal Walk with dramatic cliff views, hidden beaches, and a chance to spot whales (May–November).

Suggested Time to Spend

Pittwater rewards a full-day visit, ideally starting with a morning kayak or ferry trip from Church Point to The Basin or Scotland Island. Spend the afternoon hiking in Ku-ring-gai Chase or Bouddi National Park, then watch the sunset from Palm Beach. If you have two days, combine Pittwater with a night in a waterfront cabin or a longer sailing charter to explore the Hawkesbury River tributaries.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Extensive walking trails, Aboriginal sites, and the historic West Head lookout.
• Palm Beach – Surf beach, Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and the Palm Beach ferry to Ettalong.
• Bouddi National Park – Coastal walks, snorkelling at Maitland Bay, and picnic spots.
• Church Point – Launch point for water activities, with a popular café and ferry to Scotland Island.
• Newport & Avalon – Charming villages with boutique shops, cafés, and the Newport Arms pub on the water.
• Hawkesbury River – Explore the river's hidden coves, oyster farms, and historic towns like Brooklyn and Wisemans Ferry.

Please check official sources for current details.