Summer has arrived and with it, our thoughts turn to holidays by the water. However, this year things are vastly different from the past. Many people are still wary about travelling too far and rightly so. The other problem is that many of our regular holiday haunts are booked out; if you haven’t booked yet, you’re probably going to miss out.
But, don’t worry. We have a solution for you. Why not have a holiday in your own backyard? Did you know that the Northern Beaches area was a favourite holiday destination until around the mid 20th century? Up here on our secluded peninsula, there are some awesome spots where you can get away from home and enjoy some glorious water views without travelling too far.
Manly and Pittwater waterfront hotels
From budget to luxury, you can find a great hotel stay right in the heart of Manly or by Pittwater. Here are a few hotels that are worth a look:
- Paradise Motel and Apartments. This complex is right opposite Manly Beach and has magnificent ocean views. The complex also has a rooftop swimming pool and a private sundeck.
- Q Station. Situated in the heart of Sydney Harbour National Park, Q Station is a holiday destination with a difference – it has its own private beach! If you’re after a bit of luxury after a trying year, this is definitely the place for a well-earned getaway.
- Manly Pacific Hotel. Part of the Novotel chain, this hotel is also located opposite Manly beach with wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Hotel Steyne. Situated within a beautiful, old heritage building, Hotel Steyne is right opposite Manly Beach and offers magnificent beach and ocean views. The Steyne is also one of the more budget-friendly options.
- The Sebel. For a spot of luxury, you can’t go past The Sebel, located opposite Manly Beach with fabulous ocean views. Two swimming pools and a spa pool mean there’s room for everyone. You can also take advantage of the restaurant, Manly Wine, from morning until late, with live music on Sundays.
- Further up the peninsula in Newport you’ll find luxury at the Metro Mirage Hotel Newport. This stunner is walking distance from Merivale property, The Newport, with all its bars and food options so you can relax and have a drink without worrying.
Great camping getaways
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly break with the kids in tow, perhaps consider one of the fantastic campgrounds that are close by.
- The Basin campground. This family-friendly campground is situated within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It’s only suitable for tent camping because there is no vehicle access directly to the campground. Facilities include an amenities block, a picnic area, a sheltered beach and an inland lagoon. Take the ferry from Pittwater.
- Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park. This holiday park is perfectly situated between the North Narrabeen surf beach and Narrabeen lake, so you get the best of both worlds. There are caravan and camping sites as well as spacious cabins and villas, some with lake views. Facilities inside the park include a waterpark, a camp kitchen, barbecues, amenities block, a kids club and playground and even a kiosk. Pushing the experience further, the park has regular food trucks that visit, and often a movie on Friday night. Bonus: If you’re an NRMA member, you’re entitled to a special Member rate.
- Patonga caravan and camping area. Patonga was Sydney’s best-kept secret until the arrival of The Patonga Hotel, now part of the Boathouse Group. With Patonga Creek frontage, the camping ground has both powered and unpowered sites and the area is surrounded by national park. Facilities include an amenities block, electric barbecues, a boat ramp, a laundry, and a children’s playground. If camping gets to be too mcy, the Hotel has a few apartments as well as Patonga Cottage as alternative accommodation. You can access this gem via a ferry from Palm Beach or drive in from the Central Coast.
Enjoy an eco-friendly get away at Pittwater Eco YHA
If you truly want to get away from it all, this hostel might just be the perfect place. Nestled in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park on the shores of Morning Bay, the hostel is accessible only by ferry or a hike/bike ride in from West Head Road/Towlers Bay Track.
But this place is not just for backpackers. There are private family rooms available with views over Morning Bay and access to a communal kitchen, barbecues, musical instruments and kayaks.
You do have to bring all your own supplies (including linen unless you want to pay extra) as there are no shops nearby and water is precious.
Where will you holiday on the Northern Beaches?
To find out more about our favourite Northern Beaches holiday destinations, please give the JDH team a call.
Image: Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park
Source: www.mynrma.com.au
