Miranda in the Southern suburbs of Sydney is close to the wild bushland of the Royal National Park and is home to the shopper’s paradise of Westfield Miranda.

Metro Hotel Front Office Manager Tara Willson shares her insider tips for the best things to see and do in Miranda.

Where is the best place near the hotel for a coffee?
I don’t drink a lot of coffee but, when I do, I head down to Georgie Porgies café which is just up the road.

Where are the best dessert options near the hotel?
Gelato Messina Miranda and Chocolatier San Churro Miranda are all within walking distance. I’m a chocolate lover so it’s handy having these shops so close.

Are there any unusual historical facts about your neighbourhood? Miranda was named after Miranda de Ebro, a character in William Shakespeare’s play, The Tempest.

What are the three best things about your hotel?
We’re just across the road from one of the biggest Westfield’s in the Southern Hemisphere. This has many eateries that our guests can enjoy.

We are also extremely close to two hospitals – Kareena Private and Sutherland Hospital – so for any visitors coming from out of town, I love how local we are for them. This eases their worries and stresses.

Finally, I would say that our community involvement is a real positive. The Sutherland Shire has always been very community-driven and we get involved by offering discount agreements to local businesses and vouchers to companies at events.

Are there any celebrity spotting opportunities near your hotel?
Miranda Hotel, Miranda RSL and Tradies Gymea recently hosted Pete Murray gigs so we saw him around there for a while because he was staying on-site while he was playing. Bodyfit Fitness Centre and Preddy’s sponsor the Cronulla Sharks we see the players around there sometimes too.

Where is the best place to get a massage, pedicure or blowdry near your hotel?
Westfield is the place to go for all beauty treatments. Colour and Co are my pick for hair. They are extremely affordable and you can just walk in – no bookings required. They are open seven days a week and open late on Thursdays. ProfessioNAIL is great for nails and waxing. They are quick and affordable and open seven days a week.

Where are some good places to go for a walk?
The Cronulla beach walk along The Esplanade is one of my favourites. The ocean breeze is unbeatable.
There’s also the Royal National Park which has great hikes and the views are just amazing.

What are the best pubs/bars in your neighbourhood?
Miranda Hotel, Miranda RSL and Gymea Tradies club are the most popular local hot spots.

What are some unmissable tourist attractions in the Sutherland Shire?
Westfield Miranda, Woronora Dam, Kareena Park and The Royal National Park.

And hidden gems? Where do you like hanging out when you’re not working?
My favourite spots around here are the beaches. We are close to Cronulla and a short drive to Brighton Le Sands. I particularly love Kurnell dog beach as I have a fur baby who loves going to the beach for a little swim.