Church Point

Church Point is a serene waterfront hamlet on Pittwater, just north of Sydney, that feels a world away from the city bustle. With its calm, protected waters, jacaranda-lined streets, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely day on the water or a quiet meal with million-dollar views. The community revolves around the jetty and the small cluster of cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal stop on a self-drive itinerary through Sydney’s northern beaches or a day trip from the city.

Highlights & What to See

• Pittwater Ferry to The Basin – Catch the iconic Church Point Ferry across to The Basin in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, a stunning spot for swimming, kayaking, or a bushwalk with Aboriginal rock engravings.
• Waterfront Dining at The Boatshed – This beloved seafood restaurant and takeaway serves up fish and chips, prawns, and cold beer right on the jetty – grab a table on the deck and watch the boats come and go.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding – Hire a kayak or SUP from one of the local outfitters and explore the quiet coves and mangrove-lined shores of Pittwater.
• Scenic Drive along McCarrs Creek Road – The winding road from Mona Vale to Church Point offers glimpses of the water through the trees and leads to the lovely McCarrs Creek Reserve.
• Church Point Jetty – A classic photo spot, especially at sunset when the light catches the boats and the water glows golden.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal for Church Point – arrive in time for a late breakfast or lunch, take the ferry to The Basin for a couple of hours of swimming or a short walk, then head back for an afternoon coffee or ice cream. If you’re combining it with a visit to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, allow a full day to explore the park’s walking trails and Aboriginal sites before returning to Church Point for a relaxed dinner.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Just across the water, this park offers excellent bushwalking, Aboriginal heritage sites, and panoramic lookouts like West Head.
• Palm Beach – A 15-minute drive north, this iconic beach is the setting for the TV series Home and Away and has a lively surf club, lighthouse walk, and chic cafes.
• Mona Vale – A handy stop for supplies, with a good beach, golf course, and a few eateries.
• Newport – A charming village with a lovely stretch of beach and the popular Newport Arms hotel for a cold drink by the water.
• Bilgola Beach – A quieter, patrolled surf beach with a rock pool, just south of Newport.

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