Newport on Sydney’s Northern Beaches is a popular destination for weddings, events, short breaks and nature escapes. Simon Wanstall, General Manager at Metro Mirage Hotel Newport shares his insider tips on where to go, what to eat and what to see while you’re in the neighbourhood.

Where is the best place near the hotel for a coffee?

Our breakfast restaurant, Mirage Restaurant, at sunrise over stunning Pittwater.

What are the best dessert options near the hotel?

Merivale’s ‘The Newport’ offers a sweet selection you can’t go past.

What are some of the best shops on the Northern Beaches?

For an eclectic local experience I would travel north from the hotel up through Whale Beach, Avalon and Palm Beach to secure some more authentic merchandise. More traditional shopping can be found in Mona Vale only minutes from the hotel. By chance our preferred local surfboard retailer is here also – Soul Surf is the place to go.

Are there any unusual historical facts about your neighbourhood?

Barangaroo (who the newest Sydney harbourside development is named after) was an Aboriginal woman from the area around Manly. She was a member of the Cammeraygal clan, who were considered to be the largest and most influential group of the Eora, the Aboriginal people of the Sydney coastal region.

What are the three best things about your hotel?

The view at Sunset over Pittwater from our restaurant balcony. Direct access to pristine wilderness along 30+km of Sydney Beaches. Private Jetty into Pittwater reserve from the hotel’s back doorstep.

Are there any celebrity spotting opportunities near your hotel?

‘The Newport’, across the road from our hotel, draws many Australian TV personalities as a favourite place to while away the hours. Palm Beach Kiosk where our famous Home & Away is filmed is very accessible. But for guaranteed fun, I recommend booking the official Home & Away tour that departs straight from the hotel.

Where is the best place to get a massage/pedicure/blowdry near your hotel?

Both Mona Vale and Warriewood offer a large selection of styling boutiques.

Where are some good places to go for a walk?

I would recommend taking a hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse (in Palm Beach). Not far in the other direction is well-kept local secret called Oxford Falls. It’s a more adventurous walk but worth it in the end.

What are the best pubs/bars in your neighbourhood?

We sit nestled into the bushland right opposite ‘The Newport’ which provides all types of dining experiences and a great place to relax at the end of a hard day of sightseeing.

What are some unmissable tourist attractions on the Northern Beaches?

Spot a whale from any location on the ocean side of the peninsula during migration season. The view from Long Reef Cliff or Governor Phillip Lookout (at Beacon Hill) will guarantee you an aspect that isn’t seen on the regular tourist trail.

And hidden gems?

The Peninsula and our access to Sydney make the Northern Beaches a perfect place to explore. Many locals haven’t even discovered the magic we have on our doorstep.