Embark on unforgettable weekend boating adventures in Sydney and Pittwater, where every moment is a discovery waiting to unfold. Here are our top picks for must-visit locations in these stunning areas

The Sydney Weekend 

Berthing fees will depend on the size of your vessel.

Click here for more information about reserving a berth with the Marina.

Ideas for Friday 

Take in Sydney sunsets from CIRQ Bar & Lounge, nestled on the 26th floor of the Crown Casino Building. With only a 700-meter walk from Cockle Bay Marina, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.

You can enjoy dinner at the bar or explore the waterfront, where many dining choices await, from fine dining establishments to casual eateries.

Some of our top recommendations for dining at Darling Harbour are Lotus, Bar Rekodo.  and Love Fish

You can also visit W Sydney’s two-storey rooftop bar at Darling Harbour for a fantastic sky-high experience featuring cocktail alchemy and poolside cabanas. Enjoy an Asian-inspired tapas menu paired with handcrafted signature cocktails. Enjoy sunset views from stylish indoor settings with floor-to-ceiling windows or semi-private open-air cabanas.

Ideas for Saturday

Darling Square, only 400 meters from the marina, offers a diverse range of dining, retail, and excellent coffee options. Nearby, at the southern end of Darling Harbour, the Chinese Gardens is also a short stroll from Darling Harbour marina. Here, you can relax and enjoy tea and dumplings in a charming historic teahouse.

If you’re looking for a leisurely lunch, we recommend Mr Wong’s in Bridge Lane. Reservations are required, but same-day walk-ins are also welcomed. The distance is about 20 minutes or 5 minutes in a taxi.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Café Graze is another excellent option for lunch. Check out the current exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art here.

In the evening, we recommend visiting the Sydney Opera House,   which is just a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute cab ride away. Explore whats on here.   Most shows start at 7:30 p.m., and nearby restaurants offer several options for pre-theatre dining from 5:30 p.m. Some of our top recommendations include Aria Sydney and Bennelong. Another great option is the latest Merivale restaurant, Good Luck, on Bridge St in Sydney. This restaurant is within walking distance of the Opera House and offers early dinner seatings from 5:30 p.m.

If you’d rather dine on your boat, Nicks Seafood at Darling Harbour offers a convenient delivery service directly to your location. On weekends, Darling Harbour hosts a stunning fireworks display. To view the calendar dates for 2024, click here.

Ideas for Sunday

Take in the iconic landmarks of Sydney Harbour, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park, from the water. Cruise past these famous sites, offering great photo opportunities.

Woolloomooloo Wharf is home to some of Sydney’s finest waterfront restaurants if you’re searching for a spot for lunch.  Otto ( 02 9368 7488), Kingsleys ( 02 9331 7788), and China Doll   (02 8000 8790) can provide berths that accommodate boats up to 13.5 meters long. You will need to call the restaurant ahead of time to make arrangements.

The Boat House restaurant in Rose Bay is a great option for lunch. If you plan ahead, they can also assist with berthing.

If you want a picnic spot, visit scenic locations like Bantry Bay, Sugarloaf Bay, or Clifton Gardens. These private spots provide peaceful settings for a leisurely picnic on board or land. You can also visit historical sites like  Cockatoo Island, where you can anchor and explore the rich history and architecture.

If the weather is suitable, anchor in a calm bay such as Middle Harbour or Quarantine Beach for a refreshing swim or snorkelling session in the clear waters. For a more peaceful getaway, discover secluded coves and beaches like Store Beach, Collins Beach, or Milk Beach, which are only accessible by boat.

For those who enjoy fishing, Sydney Harbour offers plenty of spots to drop a line. Look for areas with calm waters and good fishing conditions, such as around the Harbour Bridge pylons or near Chowder Bay.

To end your weekend, plan to enjoy a stunning sunset over the water while cruising on your Riviera. Consider a serene location such as Camp Cove or Athol Bay for a peaceful end to your day on the harbour.

The Pittwater Weekend

The Hawkesbury and Pittwater region in New South Wales is known for its beautiful waterways. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and water skiing. Historic towns like Windsor and Wisemans Ferry offer insights into Australia’s colonial past, and there are various marinas, waterfront cafes, and restaurants along the shoreline. Popular destinations such as Cottage Point, Berowra Waters, and Bobbin Head are famous for their scenic beauty and dining opportunities, all of which can be reached by boat.

Ideas for Friday 

Begin your Pittwater weekend at The Quays Marina in Church Point on Friday afternoon, conveniently located where our dealership is based. Be sure to secure your berth ahead of time. Feel free to drop by our office to join our team for a sundowner. If you need advice about your trip, we’d be happy to assist you in making informed decisions for your weekend adventure. You can also check out our boat on display at the wharf.

For dinner, experience the delightful menu and scenic views at the Quays Marina Cafe next door, renowned for its inviting atmosphere.

Ideas for Saturday

The Quays Cafe also serves breakfast. Afterwards, consider visiting Scotland Island to explore its charming community and scenic walking tracks, accessible by dinghy from several anchorages. Other recommended destinations include Lovett Bay, known for its calm waters and beautiful beach ideal for swimming and relaxation, and The Basin in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, offering BBQ facilities, picnic areas, and a family-friendly beach.

If you want an ultimate relaxing boating weekend, we highly recommend Peat’s Bite. This popular restaurant and accommodation on the Hawkesbury River in Brooklyn is known for its fine dining and relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Accessible only by boat, it offers a long lunch experience with a set menu of gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, including seafood from the river. It’s a must-visit for a memorable dining experience in an idyllic natural setting.

Experience a unique Saturday by visiting the Sydney Oyster Farm in the Hawkesbury Region, known for its sustainable cultivation of premium oysters. Take part in guided tours to learn about the local aquaculture industry. Explore our tour packages here.

The Hawkesbury River offers more than just oyster farming. It offers stunning views and a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching, making it a favourite destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The Barrenjoey Boathouse Restaurant is located on the shores of Pittwater in Palm Beach, a part of Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It offers peaceful dining with stunning waterfront views. The restaurant is close to Barrenjoey Headland, allowing visitors to explore nearby attractions such as the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse and scenic bushwalking trails. Anchorage is just north of the boat shed.

Another fantastic destination for relaxation is Empire Marina Bobbin Head. The stunning bushland and of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park surround it. It’s an ideal spot for bushwalking and kayaking, making it perfect for families to enjoy outdoor activities together. Overnight berthing arrangements at the marina can be made available and must be booked in advance. There is a wonderful Waterside Bistro offering breakfast and lunch.

Ideas for Sunday

Cottage Point Cafe in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Australia, is a popular spot for fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine. The cafe overlooking Cowan Creek offers panoramic views and a tranquil escape from urban life. Visitors can enjoy dining indoors or on the deck, making it perfect for a memorable Sunday afternoon in nature.

Berowra Waters Inn, nestled within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, NSW, is renowned for its exceptional fine dining experience. Primarily accessible by boat, visitors enjoy stunning views of bushland and wildlife en route via the Hawkesbury River, Pittwater, and Cowan Creek.

Modern Australian cuisine, an extensive wine selection, and a tranquil waterside setting define the dining experience at Berowra Waters Inn.

Its location offers a peaceful retreat for special occasions or leisurely meals.

Portuguese Beach is an excellent spot for anchoring during lunch. It is located in bushland on Pittwater’s western foreshore and offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Accessible mainly by boat, it provides a serene escape from crowds and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking in calm waters. Overall, it’s a quiet retreat for relaxation and exploration in New South Wales.