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This season, we've been out and about in Collaroy and Long Reef, hanging with café stars, chatting to business owners and soaking up the community vibes. We’ve sipped coffee, swapped stories and celebrated the legends who make these suburbs so cool. Come along for the ride, and next time you're in the ‘hood, don’t forget to stop and shop local!
Sitting pretty between the Spit Bridge and Palm Beach, Long Reef and Collaroy are all about natural beauty, epic ocean views and buzzing local businesses. From boutique delis and holistic vets to cosy cafés and one of Sydney’s best pie shops, it’s the kind of place where you can start with a sunrise swim, grab a killer brekkie and still have plenty left to explore.
Back in 1881, the steamer SS Collaroy ran aground on Long Reef, drawing massive crowds who came to check out the wreck. The name stuck, and now this special stretch is a go-to spot for anyone who loves the sand between their toes.
Why Everyone Loves Longy
If you're chasing waves, Longy’s the spot. The Long Reef Bombora kicks off at about a metre, but when a solid south swell rolls in, it can pump out waves up to five metres. The sandbanks set up some fun beach breaks that are perfect for beginners and intermediates, and if you time it right—say, a quiet midweek morning—you might just have the place (and some epic waves) all to yourself.
If you haven’t done the Long Reef Headland Walk, put it on your list now! This trail has some of the most jaw-dropping views in Sydney, all the way from Palm Beach to Manly. The boardwalk winds back towards the beach so you can grab a brekkie at Butterbox Café, and once you’re done, jump back on the path to the dog park. If you’re walking between May and November, remember to keep an eye out for whales.
Just north of Longy, Fishermans Beach is a go-to for paddleboarding, photography and peaceful walks by the water. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, the Long Reef Aquatic Reserve is teeming with marine life; think sea stars, crabs and even sneaky little octopuses hiding in rock pools at low tide—just don't touch the blue-ringed ones.
Since 1997, the Reefcare group has been working hard to keep the area pristine, clearing weeds and protecting local bird habitats. And if after all that, you’re feeling a little peckish, Collaroy Basin’s cafés like Outpost Café and Astin Min pour a mean brew, with Astin Min gourmet deli treats perfect for lunch, a picnic or a healthy take-home dinner.
Craving authentic Indian? GurTaj never disappoints. And let’s not forget The Upper Crust, a Beaches institution and home to some of Sydney’s best award-winning pies.
DID YOU KNOW?
Collaroy Beach forms part of an accessibility precinct that includes an all-abilities playground and access to a FreeWheeler, which provides wheelchair access onto the sand and the surf.
DID YOU KNOW?
During World War II, Long Reef played a key role in coastal defense, with a radar station set up in 1942 to track enemy aircraft and submarines.
Eat, Drink & Play in Collaroy
With its laid-back beachy charm, Collaroy’s home to one of Sydney’s longest sandy stretches. Along with Narrabeen, it’s 3.6km long, making it the city's second-longest beach. Luckily, there’s plenty of beachfront parking. The waves are mellow, the ocean pool is a local favourite, and this beach is also home to some serious community spirit.
This month, the legends at Head Above Water are hosting their annual 24-hour swimathon on March 22–23, raising funds for mental health initiatives. If you’re up for a challenge, or just want to cheer from the sidelines, it’s a must-see event. (Turn to page 64 for the details and get involved!)
Collaroy’s food scene is also next-level. Browse the strip, and you’ll find artisan coffee spots and bakeries galore. Whether it’s a post-swim acai bowl or the best sourdough in town, a beachside brunch, sunset seafood feast or a cheeky cocktail with ocean views, you won’t go hungry around here.
Head inland and up the hill, and you’ll be happy to stumble across Collaroy Plateau with its own little village vibe. We’re talking top coffee, tasty eats, a holistic vet and many more local gems.
As you’ll discover over this feature, Collaroy and Long Reef aren’t just about the beaches (although, let’s face it, they’re pretty epic). They’re also packed with must-try restaurants, unique businesses, cool shops and a strong sense of community spirit. It’s the people and the energy that make this whole area so special.
