Discover the Northern Beaches by bus
Make like a kangaroo and hop your way along the Northern Beaches for a fully immersive exploration of our magical region.
With more than 20 beaches and myriad little villages making up this 32km stretch of coastline from Manly to Palm Beach, a hop-on hop-off tour of your own design aboard our 199 public bus service is the perfect day – or perhaps two – out.
Arrive in Manly early to make the most of your day, head to Stand B on West Esplanade and jump on the 199, which runs every 10 minutes during the day.
So let’s get started with our suggested jump-off points.
Brookvale
Alight at the Warringah Mall, Pittwater Rd, stop.
If you’re in the mood for shopping, you’ll love Westfield Warringah Mall, a large, modern, semi-open-air shopping centre with more than 200 stores, from designer boutiques to department stores. They also have a nice selection of eateries, such as Girdlers.
If it’s treasure you seek, of the second-hand variety, Brookvale is also home to three large op shops where you can hunt for bargains.
Cross the main road and dive headlong into the vibrant neighbourhood of Brookvale, home to a thriving craft brewery and distillery precinct that also supports a flourishing café culture boasting some of the best coffee roasters on the Northern Beaches.
For more of Brookvale, have a look at our guide.
Collaroy
Alight at the Pittwater Rd opposite Griffith Park stop.
For every beach there is a headland. And the impressive promontory squeezed between Collaroy and Long Reef beaches is definitely worth a visit. Known as Long Reef Headland, it hosts a lovely scenic walk sandwiched between a verdant golf green course and the brilliant blue ocean.
Head east along Anzac Ave and continue past the golf club until you summit the headland. Stop and admire the views and, if you’re lucky, the thrill-seeking hang gliders swooping from the clifftop. Down below surfers will be carving up the waves.
Headland Arriving at Collaroy, you’ll find yourself just steps away from the beachfront and a short walk to the mesmerising ocean rock pool. Take advantage of the fantastic scenic walk around the where you can savour panoramic coastal views and keep an eye out for passing whales.
The area also features a wonderful playground suitable for all ages. When hunger strikes, indulge in a meal at one of the many cafes, restaurants, or bars nestled close to the beach, allowing you to savour both delectable cuisine and breathtaking ocean vistas.
For more things to do in Collaroy, read our guide: Things to Do in Collaroy
Narrabeen
As the 199 bus approaches Narrabeen, get ready to explore an area brimming with stunning walks, cosy cafes, and inviting beaches. Narrabeen Beach, a world-renowned surfing spot, is home to the annual Sydney Surf Pro competition, typically held in May.
For a leisurely stroll, head to the Narrabeen Lagoon, located behind the main bus stop. The 8.6-kilometre walk around the lagoon offers beautiful views, encounters with wildlife, and glimpses into the area’s cultural and historical heritage.
Find out what else you can do in this beachside town: Things to Do in Narrabeen
Mona Vale
Next on the route is Mona Vale, known for its long stretch of beach and a 25-meter beach rock pool situated on a rock platform. If you’re traveling with children, be sure to stop at Apex Park or Winnererremy Bay playgrounds, which offer fantastic recreational opportunities.
Additionally, Mona Vale boasts scenic coastal walks and local businesses that specialise in coastal homewares. If you’ve had enough shopping for the day, treat yourself to a refreshing drink at Modus Brewing , known for its cold brews and laid-back atmosphere.
Discover more things to do in Mona Vale
Newport
Continuing your journey on the 199 bus, the next stop is Newport Beach. Disembark here to stretch your legs and enjoy a scenic walk toward nearby Bilgola Beach. Newport boasts an array of boutique shops, including Splice Boutique, Knap Store, and Larx Boutique, where you can find trendy clothing and swimwear.
Besides its stunning beach, Newport offers a burgeoning culinary scene with an assortment of restaurants, pubs, diners, and cafes. For a memorable lunch experience, you can’t go wrong with The Newport, where you can choose from various food outlets while enjoying the sparkling blue waters of Pittwater.
Want to explore more of Newport? Check out our guide to Newport
Avalon
Once you’ve explored Palm Beach to your heart’s content, it’s time to hop back on the 199 bus and make your way down to the next stop: Avalon. This beautiful coastal town is renowned for its rich surfing culture, delightful cafes, and charming boutique shops.
Take a leisurely stroll through the local stores, where you’ll find unique clothing boutiques, handmade homeware shops, and artisanal food establishments. If shopping isn’t your cup of tea, you can always soak up the sun on Avalon’s world-class beach or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the intimate cafes or restaurants.
Discover more about what you can do in Avalon
Palm Beach
To ensure a fulfilling experience, we recommend starting your journey early and heading straight to Palm Beach. As the northernmost point of Sydney, Palm Beach marks the end of the 199 route. Upon arrival, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a scenic walk up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.
From this vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean beach and the serene waters of Pittwater. Furthermore, Palm Beach’s quaint seaside charm has made it a popular backdrop for the long-running Australian TV show, ‘Home and Away.’ If you’re a fan, be sure to check out our guide on where to find the show’s famous filming locations.
Read our guide for more things to do in Palm BeachManly
Conclude your adventure in Manly, where you can celebrate a day well-spent by sipping a cocktail and watching the sunset over Manly Cove. To discover the best waterfront dining and drinking spots in Manly, consult our guide.
When it’s time to bid farewell to the Northern Beaches, catch a ferry from Manly back to Circular Quay, providing the perfect ending to your unforgettable journey.
Read our guide on more things you can do in Manly.
So, hop on the 199 bus, tap on to start your Northern Beaches adventure, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and charm of this coastal paradise.