PALM BEACH WITH KELSEY FERENČAK

About an hour from the city, it's one of those places you could hit up for a Sunday drive and a stop in at The Newport Arms. But since we're all travelling less and Summer is upon us let me remind you of this little gem for a weekender. Plus, then you can enjoy a proper drink and a swim, right? It feels like you're so far from Sydney, too. I  mean, the blue sky speaks for itself.

SLEEP

BARRENJOEY HOUSE Indeed the ultimate Instagrammable accommodation option, but also super central. It's directly across from the Ferry wharf, next to the bus stop and in walking distance to the ocean.  Not only is the building an icon (it's 100 years old and was even the place to go during WWII for a tipple), it's since been restored and recently refurbed to meet all of your seaside summer vacation vibes - conch shells and anchors included.

If you're feeling bougie or are celebrating a special occasion book the Loft it's on its own level, with views of the ocean, a separate area for you to lounge in (or eat dessert in your undies, ahem) and a cute reading nook to hang out at. Plus the staff are all lovely and leave you to your own devices, so it feels like your own private oasis. 

I recommend staying on a Sunday night, because Monday's are really quiet.

EAT

BERT'S AT THE NEWPORT A real long, lazy Sunday lunch vibe. It's light and airy and overlooks Pittwater and is ideal for lunch with the girls or your parents. Oysters and a Spritz are a must. Dessert is also a spectacle, so order up. Oh and the bread!

BARRENJOEY HOUSE Also a go-to for a long lunch, it's a bit more casual. Dinner is a little quieter and relaxed, perfect for when you've been lazing in the sun all day and feel like a glass of wine and fresh fish. Highly recommend the crab toast, lobster ravioli, and broccolini. Dessert here is also amazing - Palm Beach does great dessert! A booking is a must during peak summer. Go to Dunes for a beer and a snack, The Boathouse for breakfast and coffee or Whale Beach Deli for similar vibes and Wasabi Japanese Sushi Bar in nearby Avalon for a hungover lunch cure.

DO

The Palm Beach lighthouse walk is a cliche but a must. The views are top tier and you'll barely work up a sweat, so it's worth it (don't worry, it's no Byron Bay lighthouse walk). 

The beaches are insane. Palm Beach for surfing, Snapperman for a dip, Whale Beach, Clareville for a picnic and Avalon are all worth a look. For alcoholic beverages, fancy food and all of your cheese board essentials (plus Maison Balzac flutes to drink from) go to Palm Beach Wine Co. If you're partial to a fish platter, ceramic plants or like a holiday trinket The Boathouse House Home stocks all of the chic decor you'll see at Barrenjoey House and some.  There's also the Newport and Avalon shops that are about a 15 minute drive away for supermarket essentials, good coffee or a green juice. Since you're likely driving, go for a squiz at all of the INSANE property along the beaches and clifftops. A mental moodboard for your future mortgage, hey?