The easiest way to get to Manly is to cut across Sydney Harbour on the F1 ferry from Circular Quay. The rest of the coastline is best explored by car, or on the L90 bus from the city to Palm Beach, and you can make stops at these scenic and not-so-sleepy towns as you wish.

If you, like many Sydneysiders, have really gotten into natural wine and craft beer recently, then you’ll love Winona Wine. At this boutique bottle-o in Manly, you’ll find minimal intervention drops, quirky craft brews and artisanal spirits — and plenty of stellar recommendations from the staff if you’re not sure where to start.

Originally designed as a boardwalk for tourists, the Manly Corso now boasts surf shops, pubs, cafes, and galleries, and there is always a street entertainer or two to provide the ambience. In Avalon, be sure to check out Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade on the beachfront, with boutique stores set inside old terraced houses with facades that are worth the visit alone.

There are few better ways to wrap a busy day of shopping than with a cocktail or two — with a stellar view. And there’s no shortage of spots to do just that along this stretch of coast. Make a beeline to Manly Greenhouse for rosé and a cheese board on its rooftop, or nab a table at Sunset Sabi for inventive cocktails and Japanese snacks.