Day-tripping: Sydney to Palm Beach

Day-tripping
Sydney to Palm Beach

With its magnificent harbour, the Opera House and ‘that’ bridge, Sydney is quite the exhibitionist. Even the residents of states further to the south will agree.

But it doesn't stop there. Sydney's northern beaches are something else – and they’re so close to the city.

The one-way trip is an easy 50km behind the wheel of the Ford Kuga, so choose a soundtrack via the voice-controlled Sync infotainment system, pull up the map, maybe turn on your heated seat (because the one thing we can't plan is the weather)... and get going.

There's much hustle and bustle to navigate as you get out of the city and its surrounding suburbs, but once you're on the freeway (the coastal A8 or inland A38) you're over half way there! Let your satellite navigation lead the charge.

The further north you travel, the land narrows and waterways dominate: Rolling ocean beaches to the right and the protected bays of Pittwater to your left.

As you approach the end of the peninsula, the surrounds change. Hip eateries and chic beachside bolt-holes sprout from nowhere. The sandy delights of Newport, Clareville, Bilgola, Avalon and Whale beach are all a stone's throw from our ultimate destination, Palm Beach.

And don't worry if the weather gods have taken leave on your chosen day – there's more to this region than taking a dip in the ocean. Brilliant beaches are but half the story. Prepare for a complete assault on the senses.

There's a multitude of high-quality eateries to choose from, most with their own version of a brilliant beachfront vista.

The foodie trail along the Northern Beaches is exceptional. And we're not talking about beach grub as you know it. Kiosks re-imagined offer everything from macro bowls at The Avalon to cured kingfish at Clareville Kiosk.

If you can tear yourself away from the table, the local wharf offers a great spot of fishing. There's a golf course and the 35m ocean pool is great for kids. Or head to the northernmost tip to catch some more serious waves.

The local roads demand a cautious, cruising pace to accommodate the mix of leisurely locals and on-a-schedule tourist traffic – so take it easy.

At one stage our attention wandered – but the Kuga’s optional autonomous emergency braking saved the day, preventing an embarrassing nose to tail. Perhaps it’s best to save your sightseeing for after you’ve parked!

For something really special, albeit a little energetic, pack some walking shoes and take the Barrenjoey lighthouse walk. But be warned, its steep steps – many of which are natural rock formations – are quite challenging. But we promise, the view is worth it.

If you prefer to experience nature from a different, more luxurious angle, go no further than Jonah's at Whale Beach. High-end and exclusive, Jonah's is a Northern Beaches ‘institution’. Discreetly nestled at the top of the Whale Beach hillside, it's first class all the way. The award-winning restaurant at Jonah's offers exquisite dining and a premium panorama...

Who said money can't buy happiness.

As the sun begins to fall, we realise we haven't had time to fully explore The Boat Shed, Barrenjoey House, Dunes or the Newport Arms Hotel!

Indeed, it fast becomes obvious that a day in this area is a complete tease, because all too soon it's time to dust off the sand and head home. We guarantee you'll be planning your next visit that same night.

Fast facts
The trip – Sydney to Palm Beach
Distance – 95km round trip
Top 3 – Barrenjoey Lighthouse, The Avalon, Jonah's
Top Eat – Clareville Kiosk
Top Tip – Do it – rain, hail or shine.

Quick links:
The Avalon
Clareville Kiosk
Jonah's
Barrenjoey Lighthouse
Handy car tech for your next road trip

Check out more in our series of one-day escapes
Hobart: surprises south from the Apple Isle's capital
Perth: beer, bread and a hint of the good life
Melbourne: getaways on the city's doorstep
Adelaide: grapes and more in McLaren Vale
Brisbane: dream of a different world and head for the hills