Day Trips/ Hikes in NSW, Australia

Palm Beach

The perfect day trip from Sydney, approximately 1hr 15m drive from Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

Things to do around Palm Beach:

1. Hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse

The Lighthouse 113 metres above sea-level, the highest point of the Barrenjoey Headland.

It’s very short but steep steps / hill up depending which route you decide to take.

We always go up the steps and come down the other side in a loop. I recommend you do the loop so you can take full advantage of the different view points.

It’s not the longest, toughest hike but the beautiful panoramic costal views & the lighthouse make it a must do!

2. Take a picnic to the beach

Pack your swimmers & a sandwich. After you finish your walk around the lighthouse set up for a chill afternoon on the beach.

3. Home & Away Set

Palm Beach is famously known as Summer Bay in Australian TV Show Home & Away. The outdoor set includes the beach area, the outsides of some of the houses, the exterior of the Surf Club and Alf’s Bait Shop.

Filming takes place Mondays, Tuesdays & sometimes Wednesday’s. If you go on at the beginning of the week there’ll be a high chance of seeing the cast, production & filming.

You could also book onto a tour if you’re a super fan! The Tour departs from Sydney, the guide will share all the inside knowledge & facts about the show whilst taking the scenic route to Whale Beach, Avalon Beach and Bilgola Lookout. All while passing famous filming locations and beautiful costal views.

4. Surfs up!

Take surfing lessons at the southern end of Palm Beach. This end of the beach is sheltered, calm and provides constant gentle waves making it one of the best spots around Sydney to learn to surf.

5. Ride the ferry to Ettalong from Palm Beach Wharf

Take the ferry from Palm Beach to Ettalong, a pretty beach town. The ferry departs hourly from Palm Beach Wharf and takes 25 minutes, passing between Barrenjoey Headland and Box Head.

6. Pittwater Discovery Kayaking Tour

Just a 15 min drive from Palm Beach you can rent kayaks and go to remote beaches. You can opt for a half or full day guided tour exploring bush & beaches.

7. Newport Arms Hotel

We always stop in here for food on the way home from Palm Beach. It offers a variety of different cuisines throughout the venue, from wood fire pizzas, bar food, steakhouse, seafood.. there is plenty to choose from.