Insiders’ Guide to The Best Things to Do in Avalon Beach

A natural utopia, Avalon Beach is surrounded by lush bushland that flows down to the calm bays of Pittwater on one side and the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean on the other.

Avalon Beach is at the heart of this Northern Beaches pocket with its rich surfing culture, intimate cafes and shopping village. It’s a captivating lifestyle centred around the beach, pottering about barefoot, healthy living, and a tight-knit community. Little wonder this charming suburb keeps locals here for the long haul!

So, if you’re planning a day trip from Sydney or a longer escape, keep reading as we break down the best things to do in Avalon Beach. 

Best Things to Do in Avalon Beach: Eat & Drink

Pocket Pizza

When it comes to out-of-the-box pizzas that are not only hilariously named but next-level yum, Pocket Pizza knows how to deliver on both fronts.

The cool and intimate venue is the ultimate location for a date night or a catch-up with friends. Be sure to order the Gordon Hamsey and finish your meal with a serving of their mouth-watering tiramisu.

1 Simmonds Lane, Avalon Beach

Randy’s Wine 

Pink marble accents, light timber and beachy accents invite you into this casual wine bar with seating for a cosy 26 patrons.

At Randy’s Wine, the vibes are low-key, but the offering is anything but chill. Come for the progressive wine list and stay for the curated snack menu, which focuses on fresh seafood.   

50 Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach 

Alma

Did somebody say Taco… Wednesday? Alma mixes it up in Avalon with a menu of finger lickin’ good Mexican dishes.

Housed inside a cosy cottage, a leisurely weekend lunch or boozy dinner here is one of the best things to do in Avalon Beach. Come summer, choose to sit outdoors and watch the world go by as you enjoy your tacos, and in winter, it’s hard to resist enjoying the salted caramel churros whilst snuggled up by the fire.

Did we mention there are five margaritas to choose from? We’ll meet you there!

47 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

Bar Elvina

Providing good vibes and great wines, Bar Elvina is one of Avalon’s most popular spots for a sunset bev, and don’t get us started on the stunning interiors.

This gorgeous little bar brings together an eclectic menu focusing on seafood, craft beers, an interesting wine list, and carefully curated cocktails – Beaches-based locals can’t get enough! 

50 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach 

Bistro Boulevard

Bistro Boulevard brings the charm of a classic French bistro to the Northern Beaches. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu brimming with French classics, this eatery is perfect for a cosy dinner or a special night out. Menu highlights include the perfectly cooked steak frites, the mouth-watering French onion soup and the indulgent crème brûlée. Paired with an excellent French wine selection, Bistro Boulevard is a true local treasure.

40 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach

Paloma

Fans of Avalon’s Classic Coffee Van were chuffed when the team opened its sister cafe, Paloma. A second venture from a local couple, it serves all of your brunch favourites, from the classic smashed avo on toast to colourful burrito bowls, topped off by a laidback atmosphere. 

43 Elvina Avenue, Avalon Beach

Hungry Ghost

Tucked away in Patterson Lane, Hungry Ghost is Avalon’s best-kept secret for top-notch coffee, golden jaffles, and brunch bites that hit the spot. This cute hole-in-the-wall gem keeps it local and ethical, serving up seriously good brews daily. No frills, just great vibes and even better coffee.

Patterson Lane, Avalon Beach

Graze & Cakes

For the sweet tooths out there, family-run Vietnamese cafe and bakery, Graze & Cakes do it best. The menu features delicious vermicelli noodle bowls, freshly made baguettes, and their iconic banh mi rolls. With ONA coffee fuelling the community, you’ll find yourself coming back often, especially with custom cakes available for special occasions.

38 Burrawong Road, Avalon Beach

LaBanette

A buzzing French patierssere in the heart of town, there’s always a line of eager customers getting their fresh break on the weekend. From buttery croissants to decadent éclairs and savoury quichers and, every bite is pure bliss.

26 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach

Best Things to Do in Avalon Beach: Shop

Peggy Concept Store

Peggy Concept Store in Avalon Beach is more than a retail space; it’s a hub for creativity, inspiration and connecting the community.

Named after the original curator, Peggy Guggenheim, the Peggy Concept Store has a uniquely European jet-set feel with a nod to the relaxed Australian lifestyle.

Take your time to browse the curated edit of designer clothes from Deiji, Karen Walker, Bondi Born, Gucci, SIR., Posse and Prada, art and lifestyle pieces.

62 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach

Deesse Boutique

If swoon-worthy jewellery, luxe fashion (for grown-ups and minis!) and divine beauty and lifestyle treats speak to you, then make a beeline to Deesse Boutique.

While it’s hard to resist the beauty in this lovely shop, we’re eyeing the gorgeous ranges from Nude Lucy and Porter Jewellery in store.

Shop 3/72 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach 

Bassike 

Whether it’s a crisp white tee or perfectly tailored pants, Sydney-based Bassike’s (pronounced “basic”) cool and casual threads are far from ordinary.

Where sustainability and wearability meet, co-founders Deborah Sams and Mary Lou Ryan are big on everyday pieces that won’t just sit at the back of your wardrobe.

A one-stop shop for everything from swimwear to outerwear, Bassike’s innovative interpretation of classic pieces makes the perfect addition to your capsule wardrobe.

41 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach

Lee Matthews

Located in the bustling centre of Avalon Beach, Lee Mathews is a must-visit for timeless style. This boutique showcases the Australian designer’s timeless silhouettes, natural fabrics, and understated luxury. From beautifully crafted wardrobe staples to elevated pieces for special occasions, this thoughtfully curated space is always delivers.

40 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach 

Mamapapa

Mama Papa is a beautifully curated boutique with dreamy clothes for women and children, as well as artisanal homewares, stunning pieces of jewellery and unique handcrafted pieces. From party dresses to vintage-inspired ceramics, every item is thoughtfully sourced and designed to inspire.

11/20 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach

Avalon Floral Art

If flowers are your joy space, check out Avalon Floral Art for a dose of floral goodness. This local boutique florist makes stunning, bespoke arrangements with fresh, seasonal blooms. Whether you’re after a dreamy bouquet, a posy for home, or a last-minute gift, their artistic touch brings beauty to every bunch.

Shop 3/55 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

Best Things to Do in Avalon Beach: Wellness

Feels Pilates

Feels Pilates offers dynamic reformer Pilates classes with a focus on form. The Northern Beaches-based studios are all about being inclusive, meaning anyone at any level is welcome to join.

The Avalon studio offers daily Beginner Feels, All the Feels and Circuit Feels (HIIT Pilates) classes, with Strength Feels and Stretchy Feels classes each week. 

Finish off the sweat sesh in the state-of-the-art Sunlighten Infrared Sauna to unwind after your class. 

46 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach

Paradise Yoga  

Paradise Yoga provides a tranquil haven for sensitive souls and open minds to embrace gentle yoga practices to reduce stress and anxiety.

The studio boasts one of the best views in town, situated in the lush, gum-tree-lined bush looking out onto Pittwater, allowing you to relax upon arrival.  

Behind the Owl Door, 75A Riverview Road, Avalon Beach   

Sauna Amalfi 

When a European holiday isn’t on the cards, why not carve out a little time to revel in Mediterranean wellness experiences without leaving Sydney?

The Northern Beaches is home to a luxury sauna and cold plunge studio, Sauna Amalfi, and it’s become a much-loved institution for locals. You can expect grandeur from the get-go with serene interiors, luxe details and state-of-the-art facilities. 

2 Simmonds Lane, Avalon Beach 

The Heal Zone

As the name suggests, The Heal Zone is a blissful escape serene dedicated to relaxation and wellness. This boutique sauna and spa offers infrared saunas, ice baths, and holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. You’ll float out of there a whole new person.

70 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

Best Things to Do in Avalon Beach: Explore

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

When you’re spending a few days exploring Avalon Beach, a visit to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a must. This incredible park is perfect for outdoor lovers, offering stunning bushwalks, scenic views, and even Aboriginal rock art to discover along the trails.

Whether you’re up for a hike or prefer to lay by the water on a secluded beach, this beauty has it all. It’s the ideal spot for a day out in nature, adding a dash of adventure to your beach trip. 

Avalon Beach 

There’s a reason Kelly Slater lived in Avalon for well over a decade, this is one of the best surf beaches in Australia. Whether you’re chasing the perfect wave or just after a stunning beach to call home, it’s an alluring slice of Northern Beaches paradise.  

At the southern end of the beach, the ocean pool attracts young families while the adventurous take to the rocky ledges to jump into the deep blue sea.

Avalon, NSW 

Clareville Beach Reserve

Just a short walk from Avalon, Clareville Beach Reserve is where locals come to splash in the shallow waters and relax with a picnic under the leafy treetops.

The beautiful beach runs from Taylors Point in the south and north along the Pittwater foreshore. There’s also a grassy area with a barbecue ideal for picnics with the family. 

Delecta Avenue, Clareville

Loved our edit of the best things to do in Avalon Beach and after some Northern Beaches gems to unearth? Check out our round-up of the best walks in the Northern Beaches, then it’s time for some TLC with the best beauty salons on the Northern Beaches.