Palm Beach

Palm Beach is the kind of place that feels a world away from Sydney's city buzz, yet it's just an hour's drive north. This slender peninsula, flanked by the Tasman Sea on one side and Pittwater estuary on the other, is where golden sand meets lush bushland. It's the iconic setting for the TV series Home and Away, but the real star is the landscape: a pristine beach perfect for a morning swim, a lighthouse walk with panoramic views, and a laid-back village vibe that invites you to linger.

Highlights & What to See

• Palm Beach itself – a stunning stretch of white sand ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a long stroll. The southern end is patrolled in summer, while the northern end is popular with surfers.
• Barrenjoey Lighthouse – a 30-minute walk up to the headland rewards you with 360-degree views over Pittwater, the Hawkesbury River, and the ocean. The lighthouse itself dates from 1881 and is a photogenic landmark.
• Pittwater – the calm, sheltered side of the peninsula is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or hiring a boat. You can also take a ferry to the nearby Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
• Snapperman Beach – a quieter, secluded spot on the Pittwater side, accessible via a short bush track. Great for a peaceful dip away from the crowds.
• The Basin – a popular picnic spot with calm waters, ideal for families. It's also the starting point for the ferry to the national park.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a full day is perfect for Palm Beach. Arrive mid-morning to claim a spot on the sand, then tackle the lighthouse walk before lunch. Afternoon is ideal for exploring Pittwater by kayak or paddleboard, or simply relaxing with a book. If you're keen to hike further, consider adding a walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – in which case, a full day from early morning to sunset will do the trick. For a more leisurely pace, an overnight stay lets you experience the sunset from the headland and an early morning swim.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – just across Pittwater, this park offers Aboriginal rock engravings, bushwalks, and stunning lookouts. Catch the ferry from Palm Beach to The Basin or Cottage Point.
• Newport – a charming seaside village south of Palm Beach with excellent cafes, a patrolled beach, and the popular Newport Arms Hotel for a post-beach drink.
• Avalon Beach – a laid-back surf beach with a village vibe, great for a quick stop on the way. The Avalon Beach Markets are worth a look on Saturdays.
• Mona Vale – another beautiful beach with rock pools and a golf course, ideal for a morning round or a swim in the ocean baths.
• Church Point – a picturesque waterfront hamlet where you can hire a boat or enjoy fish and chips on the jetty. It's a short drive from Palm Beach.
• Bilgola Beach – a hidden gem with a stunning curve of sand and a lush headland, perfect for a quieter beach experience.

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