Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Patonga NSW



Patonga is a river side town located directly on the Northern Banks at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. It has many opportunities for an adventure with a boat ramp, ferry wharf, sandy beach the perfect launching spot for any water based activity.

There are several ways to reach Patonga including road and even on foot walking the Great North Walk. For some people the drive by car can take many hours, especially if you were to live on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. A good alternative to driving is to catch the ferry which is a spectacular trip on a great day. Have a look at Palm Beach Ferries or Sydney Scenic Cruises for some routes that cover Patonga.



Whilst in Patonga you can enjoy a refreshing ale in the beer garden of the local Patonga Beach Hotel, a coffee in the cafe or a bite of fish and chips from the general store.






Sunday, November 10, 2013

Green Patch - Jervis Bay

Green Patch located within the Booderee National Park is a popular camping and picnic area in Jervis Bay. Crystal clear waters and of the whitest sands in the world. Whether you stay for a while or just a day trip Green Patch has a lot on offer for the adventurer.

Green patch offers several paid camping spots which open depending on demand and the season. Busier times during the summer months you need to book well in advance. Camp grounds appear bushier at one end and more open at the other, but all have conveniently located facilities. BBQ's, flushing toilets and hot showers make Green Patch a great place to camp with the family and more comfortable for those who don't like ruffing it to much.

Camp sizes range in price and size , so people with camper trailers are welcomed. Check out the Booderee National Park site for better information on fees. Also Parksaustralia.gov.au


From the camp sites don't be surprised if you get a few visits from the true locals. Plenty of kangaroo's, birds and possums for you to see.

The waters adjacent to the Green Patch camping area are beautiful and clear. A low swell makes it ideal for kayaking. You can fish from the waters edge but be warned that parts are part of a marine park so best check the regulations before going to far a field.




Shelly Beach - Manly

Everyone loves a perfect day at the beach, the cool breeze and perfect waters for a refreshing swim. If your after a place with some adventure, then why not check out Shelly Beach in Many, NSW.

Shelly Beach - View from pathway


Shelly Beach is a small bay just a short walk from Sydney's Manly Beach. When on Manly Beach (Ocean Side) head south along the beach following the path past the Surf Club. The path continues to Shelly Beach. The walk itself is spectacular with many adventures waiting to be discovered.

Ocean Rock Pool
 As you walk along the path you begin to see the many different activities that this place holds. A small ocean pool allows for an uninhibited swim but also a great place for the kids.

The waters around Shelly Beach offer one of the most accessible dive sites Sydney has to offer. You will often see many people snorkeling around the calm waters and scuba divers exploring further out.
"Bower" - Surf Break
As the waters are shallow it makes for a great beginners dive site and many dive schools are often seen gathering on the beach.

Surfing is another highlight of Shelly Beach with the shallow waters offering some great waves over the reef. You can watch the surfers dive straight into the waters from the rocks.

The western point of the beach also know as the "Bower" offers some of the shallowest breaks in Sydney. The shallow waters make it popular for surfers when the swell is right.

You'll often see paddle boarders make the journey out to the bower or just paddle around the calm waters in the bay.


Calm waters of Shelly Beach

As Shelly Beach faces inland and not directly towards the ocean it remains a calm and kid friendly beach. No big dumpers are going to send you flying here, which makes it a excellent spot for launching a kayak.

There are fantastic picnic facilities in the area including gas bbq's and picnic tables. Get in quick as they go really fast. Several cafes are also nearby for those that prefer a sit down or take away feast.



Climb the hill behind Shelly Beach for an awesome exploring. A rocky outcrop offers magnificent views and further on you can walk to the famous North Head.

For more information check out :-

Wikipedia
Manly Council Website

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Watson Bay by Ferry - Fish and Chips and the sea breaze

Looking for a lazy Sunday that it still packed with a little bit of adventure, then how about taking a Ferry Ride to Watsons Bay.




Watsons Bay is a beautiful part of Sydney, located right on Sydney Harbor in an area well know for its expensive real estate and neighboring attractions such as The Gap. Also famous for its Fish and Chips Doyles.

Watsons Bay

Getting there:- 

Travelling to Watsons Bay is more of an adventure if you travel by Ferry. A ferry service runs very regularly and can be boarded from several locations such as Circular Quay. I suggest checking the Sydney Transport Info for your best travel options.

What can I do there :-

Why not grab a feed of fish and chips and enjoy the beautiful park or sandy beach. If a sit down meal or a beer is more your fancy then try Doyles or the Watsons Bay Hotel. 

You can stroll up the hill and take in the magnificent harbor views and cliff and views from The Gap.