All The Best Things To Do In The Shire This Summer
New Month, New You
Posted December, 2020
Summer is a magical time of year. The sun is shining, the water is warm and the Shire is brimming with things to do. From the best spots for a festive drink, to crafty events and new restaurant openings, the Shire has plenty to keep you occupied for the rest of the year.
Here’s 10 fun things to keep you busy this Summer.
Enjoy a Sunset Drink at Cronulla Sailing Club
Take Friday afternoon drinks to a whole new level at Cronulla Sailing Club. Spanning across two levels with incredible views of Gunnamatta Bay, it’s truly one of the best spots to watch the sun go down. The Sailing Club is open every Friday from 4:00pm throughout Summer, with live music from 5:00pm. Tables fill up fast, so you’ll have to arrive on time to snag a good seat. Walk-ins only.
Every Friday from 4:00pm
50 Waratah Street, Cronulla
Happy Hour by the Beach
The only thing that can top off a happy hour is striking water views and, lucky for us, Zimzala offers just that. Located smack bang on South Cronulla Beach, Zimzala has just introduced happy hour every Thursday and Friday evening from 5:00pm to 6:00pm. Sip away on $10 cocktails, $5 local beers and $5 glasses of red, white or sparkling house wine. Get in quick as this happy hour isn’t sticking around for long, only running until the 12th of December. A bar menu is available until 5:30pm, including the likes of Sydney Rock Oysters, Salt & Pepper Squid, a moreish Cheese Board and a Seafood Tasting Platter for two.
Every Thursday and Friday evening, from 5:00pm to 6:00pm (ends 12th December)
The Esplanade, Cronulla Beach
Visit one of the Shire’s newest venues
Over the past few months, the Shire has struck lucky with an abundance of new restaurant and bar openings, so it’s time to start ticking them off your list. Here’s our recap to help you decide where to visit first:
Johnny Hu Chinese
Johnny Hu Chinese, a pop-up restaurant (only a 12-month lease) from the iconic team behind Alphabet St. opened early December. After our recent visit we loved their Scallop Dumplings, Prawns Wontons in Chilli Oil, Sashimi, Pecking Duck Pancakes and Toothfish. If you’re an Apple Martini fanatic, you can breathe a sigh of relief. This renowned cocktail combination made the cut, but we suggest their Lychee Bubble Tea Cocktail for something different. Bookings can be made here.
Cony’s
Known as Grind Espresso by day and Cony’s by night, this new bar in the heart of Cronulla serves South American inspired food and innovative cocktails. Buzzing with people every weekend, the bar has an infectious vibe. Our suggestions here are their Apple Martini, Salted Caramel Espresso Martini, Salmon Ceviche and Empanadas!
The Pines
The Pines is home to delicious modern Australian cuisine, Hamptons inspired interiors and spanning views over North Cronulla Beach. We loved their Seared Scallops, Spanner Crab, Marinated Tuna, Crunchy Kale and Barramundi. If you’re craving something sweet to finish, try their Chocolate Cigar. Not to get confused with the kind of cigar you smoke, this dessert is a chocolate truffle that has been perfectly sculpted into the shape of a cigar. It’s certainly quite impressive.
Baker Lane
Baker Lane, taking over Fusions Nightclub, has a moody and intimate atmosphere. With its fun vibe, Baker Lane is perfect for a date night or post-dinner drinks. The Watermelon Mojito and Lychee Martini are winners here.
3 Doors Down
3 Doors Down in Menai has one of the most creative cocktail lists in the Shire. If you’re feeling a little naughty, try their Golden Gaytime Cocktail. 3 Doors Down also offer great set menus and beverage packages that are ideal for groups.
Watch a flick at the brand new HOYTS Cinema
It’s the cinema we have all been eagerly waiting on; HOYTS Cronulla has officially opened its doors. Behind the heritage listed façade, guests will experience a multi-million-dollar refurbishment boasting all-new cinema offerings. After our recent BTS tour, we were blown away with the luxurious Velvet and Sapphire Plush Lounges, a brand new seating experience to HOYTS. We guarantee Artie’s Bar & Cafe will also make your jaw drop. Don't forget to sign up to the HOYTS rewards program (it's free) for 10% off food and drink, unlimited popcorn refills, discounted movies of the week and birthday rewards. Jump over here to join.
2 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Get Creative at a Paint & Sip Pop Up
Flex your creative muscles this month at a paint & sip event. These classes are perfect for group outings or a fun date night. If you love a burrito, check out Pinot & Picasso’s pop-up at Beach Burrito on Thursday the 17th of December. Tickets here include a burrito, glass of wine or beer and everything you’ll need to create your Mexican-inspired masterpiece.
If you’re a fan of crafty cocktails, don’t miss ‘Cocktails and Colour’ by 3 Doors Down. Strap on your apron and prepare to get your hands dirty. This event is running on the 3rd, 10th and 17th of December.
Enjoy cheap Sushi at Rushi’s Sushi Tuesday
Rushi is a Japanese-inspired cafe uniquely located inside a bike shop in Cronulla. Every Tuesday, Rushi holds ‘Sushi Tuesday’ where you can enjoy their famous Rushi Roll, Edamame and Miso Soup for just $15, normally $23. This is one seriously good combo, with the Rushi Roll certainly some of the best sushi we’ve tried in the Shire.
2/25-35 Kingsway, Cronulla
Every Tuesday
Embrace the Christmas Cheer with a bottomless lunch at Highfields
If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate the festive season with friends, consider a bottomless lunch at Highfields. For $79pp the lunch features entrees, mains, sides and dessert plus two hours of endless drinks. Take your pick from a selection of cocktails, wines, sparkling and tap beers. Pair this experience with a view and book a seat on their rooftop balcony. Click here to check out all bottomless sessions in the Shire this month.
22-24 MacKay Street, Caringbah
Available everyday from 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Get Active with a coastal walk through Kurnell National Park
With the sun now out in full force, what better time for a scenic walk along the beautiful Cape Solander coastline in Kamay Botany Bay National Park? Reward yourself post-walk with a coffee and bite to eat from Kurnell 1770 Bakery and Cafe, located at the entrance of the National Park. Here they use The Grounds Coffee and have an inviting range of freshly baked goods including quiches, pies, breads and sweet treats.
Cape Solander Dr, Kurnell
Sample Fratelli Fresh’s new flavours of Spritz
Fratelli Fresh is counting down the days till Christmas from Wednesday, 2nd December with 25 flavours of Spritzmas. The 25 new refreshingly fizzy flavours can be enjoyed by the glass ($14) or cocktail jug ($29) until New Year’s Eve. Perfect for Summery alfresco dining, the festive spritz mix includes delicate notes of mandarin and thyme, the aromatic fusion of peach and rosemary, the subtle tartness of green apple, and refreshingly tropical lychee.
From 2nd - 31st December
Level 2, Westfield Miranda, Miranda
Make the most of these balmy nights with a picnic by the beach
On a warm summer's night, sometimes there’s nothing better than a picnic with loved ones… Think a bottle of wine, delicious takeaway and spanning water views - can it get any better? Our favourite spots to throw down a rug are Salmon Haul, Darook Park or Oak Park. First, stop somewhere local to grab the essentials. We suggest fish and chips from Notaras Fish Market, a bento box from Green Shiso or delectable pizza from Crust.