Pennant Hills

Pennant Hills is a leafy, residential suburb in Sydney’s Upper North Shore, offering a relaxed escape with pockets of bushland and family-friendly attractions. While it’s not a tourist hotspot, its quiet charm, local parks, and easy access to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park make it a worthwhile stop for travellers seeking a taste of suburban Sydney life.

Highlights & What to See

• Pennant Hills Park – A sprawling green space with walking trails, sports fields, and a popular off-leash dog area. The park’s elevated spots offer lovely views over the surrounding suburbs.
• Koala Park Sanctuary – Just a short drive away, this small wildlife park lets you see koalas, kangaroos, and wombats up close, with daily shows and the chance to hand-feed kangaroos.
• Bicentennial Park – A peaceful reserve with a playground, picnic areas, and a scenic walking track along the creek – ideal for a family outing or a quiet afternoon.
• Local cafés and eateries – Pennant Hills Road has a handful of laid-back cafés and bakeries, perfect for a coffee and a pastry before heading into the bush.
• Nearby bushwalking – The Great North Walk passes close by, offering longer treks through the national park, while the Berowra Valley Regional Park is a short drive for more serious hikers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to explore Pennant Hills itself: a morning at Koala Park Sanctuary, followed by a picnic lunch at Pennant Hills Park. If you plan to combine it with walks in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, set aside a full day. The suburb works best as a quick stopover or a base for nature activities rather than a destination on its own.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Minutes away, with Aboriginal rock art, scenic lookouts (West Head), and coastal walks.
• Berowra Waters – A picturesque river settlement with a famous waterside restaurant and kayaking opportunities.
• Hornsby – A bustling commercial centre with shopping, dining, and the Hornsby Park, which has a waterfall walk.
• Castle Hill – Known for the Castle Hill Showground markets (Sundays) and the Hills District’s best Asian restaurants.
• Parramatta – A historic city with colonial buildings, the Parramatta River ferry, and a vibrant food scene.

Please check official sources for current details.