Coastal towns don’t get much more idyllic than Patonga. Located almost as far south on the Central Coast as you can get, the leafy green suburb is wrapped by the Hawkesbury River and is a bit of a journey, but there is a very good reason to visit.

Launching in December 2018 the Boathouse Patonga is a part of the powerhouse that is the Boathouse Group, a collective of now eight venues dotted around some of Sydney’s most stunning locations, think the Boathouse Balmoral and the Boathouse Palm Beach, Whale Beach Deli, Barrenjoey House Palm Beach, the list goes on.

Whilst the newest addition to the family steps outside of the Sydney boundary, that elegant but relaxed coastal vibe has continued.

Driving down the windy Patonga Drive, the Boathouse at Patonga sits at the base of the hill and is the perfect introduction to the town. The outdoor drinking and dining space looks out onto the very tranquil Brisk Bay and directly opposite the Patonga Ferry wharf, making for easy access to Sydney’s Northern Beaches should you have time to explore.

There is, of course, a long list of beers on tap, an impressive wine and champagne menu, and then there are those cocktails. Next level and so many to choose from you almost feel obliged to try each of them, at least once. How could you say no to a Pina Orangino?!

Whether you're passing by at breakfast, lunch, or dinner time there will be something happening on the menu. From the ultra casual, think kiosk style Battered Fish + Chips, to a more formal but still relaxed dine-in experience like the Sydney Rock Oysters and Tuna Tartare to share.

So whilst a drive to Patonga may not be a spur of the moment kind of thing, it is a must, especially when the weather is at its best.