Avalon Beach

One of the quieter beaches on the northern beaches stretch, Avalon Beach is quiet, spacious and friendly. Good for surfing, swimming, fishing and windsurfing, the surrounding area has become a favourite place for a 'sea-change' among Sydney-siders looking to enjoy a quieter, beach lifestyle. Just 37 kilometers north of the CBD, driving here should take only 45 minutes, but traffic can make this much much longer, so the bus is a good alternative as they have their own lane so can speed past the rest of the traffic and get you there in an hour with ease.

The swell can make swimming dangerous here sometimes, so it is best to always swim between the flags, but there is a playground for the kids if the water is too rough. There is also an ocean pool at the south end where you can do some laps if you feel inclined. At the south end rocks, experienced surfers can challenge themselves at 'Little Avalon'. The rock formations just off the south end cliffs here produce the area's famous barrel waves and so is a favourite spot for serious bodyboarders and surfers alike.

For the rest of the day, there is a nice picnic area with toilets and BBQs so you can enjoy a picnic or takeaway snack with the perfect view. The strip mall across from the beach has many lovely cafes just waiting to be explored, and some gorgeous boutiques too if you want to tempt yourself with some stylish clothes or luxe homewares. The surfclub also and has a great kiosk, whether it's your morning coffee or a bucket of prawns and a beer, the Beach House Kiosk has you covered. For something more decadent, the Beach House restaurant is upstairs ' this is where you can enjoy an indulgent long lunch or a few well-earned glasses of wine. You'll be having such a good time you'll want to stay for dinner'or perhaps even make a 'sea-change' and move here yourself.