The eastern suburbs are “gorgeous”, and the southern and western suburbs are “aspirational”, then the North Shore is best described as “satisfied”. For many Sydneysiders the North Shore is not only geographical shorthand for the suburbs north of the harbour, it’s equally a state of mind. One that is respectable, well-off and content. From Hunters Hill in the west to Manly in the east, and all points north to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the North Shore is bourgeois to the back teeth. Here you’ll find some glorious pockets of remnant bushland nestled around the harbour, stunning ocean beaches, quiet harbourside beaches, and plenty of options for those who love the great outdoors, including walking, cycling, kayaking, surfing, diving, sailing and parasailing. And then there are always some of Sydney’s perennial favourites to tempt you: Luna Park, Nutcote, Taronga Park Zoo, Bradleys Head, Oceanworld and North Head.
Mosman’s Military Road contains the best shops for picnic supplies, gifts, cheese, chocolates, seafood and more.-
Morning
Pack the bare essentials and catch the ferry to Manly Wharf. Cross The Esplanade and follow The Corso down to Manly Beach . After paying homage to William Gocher (see Manly Beach), head south and follow the path around to Cabbage Tree Bay, where you’ll find the delightful Fairy Bower rockpool and Shelly Beach (see Manly), both of which are perfect for children. Then extract your credit card and enjoy lunch at the classy Le Kiosk , voted the most romantic restaurant on the East Coast by the New York Times.
Afternoon
Leave the beach via Bower Street and follow this around to College Street, past the million-dollar mansions overlooking Manly Beach. Turn right into Reddall Street, left into Addison Road, and left again into Darley Road. Head uphill and take a peek over the stone walls at the Former St Patrick’s Seminary . Continue past the hospital and take the right fork leading into Sydney Harbour National Park . Pass beneath the sandstone arch and take Collins Beach Road on your right. This wends down through a lovely shaded gully to the Police College. A small path on your right leads to the secluded Collins Beach , one of Sydney’s hidden secrets. A path at the end of the beach leads to Stuart Street, which takes you back to Manly.
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On the headland east of Manns Point and the Parramatta River (see Birchgrove) lies this pleasant park, site of Aboriginal rock art and bushwalking trails. It offers stunning views across the harbour to Goat Island and Balmain (see Balmain East). BBQ facilities are available, and it’s easily accessible from Waverton Railway Station. The park is cradled by the dormitory suburbs of Waverton and Wollstoncraft, the latter named after Edward Wollstoncraft, nephew of Mary Wollstoncraft, the author of Rights of Women . Edward was an enterprising local merchant who operated a shipping business with his partner Alexander Berry, after whom the bay to the east was named.
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Top German beers on tap, and classics such as potato rösti, oysters Kilpatrick and steaks on the menu.
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A lovely bay that features shallow crystal waters, wind-sculpted sandstone cliffs, the magical Fairy Bower rockpool and protected Shelly Beach.
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The site where Governor Phillip was speared in 1788 is a peaceful spot nowadays (see Collins Beach). Steps lead to a secluded rock diving platform.
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Mosman has wonderful food shops and delicatessens. This bakery and patisserie offers pots of tea, savoury pies and sweet treats.
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This little shopping mall has a clutch of good, cheap diners serving Himalayan, Japanese, Indian and Singaporean cuisines.
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A prominent 1885 seminary for Catholic priests was the setting forThomas Keneally’s novel Three Cheers for the Paraclete . It is now a college of hospitality and tourism.
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The best choice for an ice cream craving. Standards and exotic flavours are topped by chunks of chocolate, piles of figs or handfuls of almonds.
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Kirribilli is Australia’s most densely populated suburb. But it is better known for two residences that occupy its tip: Admiralty House (1843) and neighbouring Kirribilli House (1855). The former was the residence of the Commander of the British Royal Navy, and is now the Sydney residence of the Governor General, the Queen’s representative in Australia. The latter is the official Sydney residence of the Australian Prime Minister. The Gothic Kirribilli House has one of the best views in Australia.
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Restaurant price categories
For a two course meal for one with a drink (or equivalent meal), plus taxes and extra charges.
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