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freshwater & queenscliff
HERITAGE SURF CULTURE & LAID-BACK COASTAL SOPHISTICATION
Freshwater and Queenscliff sit at the southern gateway to Sydney’s Northern Beaches, where the surf breaks roll in strong and the sense of community runs deep. With historic charm, boutique style, and sparkling ocean views, these two beachside enclaves embody the timeless allure of coastal living, where life feels grounded, golden, and beautifully free.
The Lifestyle of freshwater & queenscliff
Side by side, Freshwater and Queenscliff share a proud surf heritage and a modern-day vibrancy that continues to evolve. Together, they represent the perfect blend of beach energy and village warmth.
freshwater
– the heart of surf culture
Known affectionately as “Freshie”, this suburb is steeped in history as the birthplace of Australian surfing. Today, Freshwater hums with boutique cafés, bakeries, and coastal fashion stores clustered around the lively village centre. The beach itself is sheltered and family-friendly, with golden sand, gentle waves, and a strong sense of local pride. Its rock pool and scenic headland walks add to the area’s charm, making it one of the Northern Beaches’ most loved addresses.
Perched between Freshwater and Manly, Queenscliff offers panoramic ocean views and an easy connection to both beaches. It’s a haven for those who love the surf but also value peace, privacy, and sophistication. Elegant apartments and architecturally designed homes hug the hillside, capturing sunrises over the water. Locals walk or cycle along the promenade into Manly, soaking up the effortless energy of this stunning coastline.
queenscliff
– elevated coastal elegance
freshwater &
queenscliff
real estate
Both suburbs remain tightly held, prized for their proximity to Manly and the city while retaining their distinct local character. Freshwater offers a blend of renovated beach cottages and contemporary homes, while Queenscliff is known for its elevated prestige properties with sweeping coastal outlooks.
Property Market Snapshot
- Freshwater Median House Price: $4,200,000
- Queenscliff Median House Price: $4,500,000 (Units $1,340,000)
- Median Rent: Approx. $1,300 per week
- Population: Approx. 9,000 (combined)
- Demographics: Families, professionals, downsizers, and lifestyle buyers drawn to surfside luxury and village charm
Things to Do, See & Love
in freshwater & queenscliff
Natural Beauty, Beaches & Outdoors
- Swim in the Freshwater Rock Pool or surf its iconic break
- Walk the coastal path from Queenscliff to Manly via the promenade
- Enjoy sunrise yoga or beach runs along Freshwater Reserve
- Watch the sunset from Queenscliff Headland with panoramic ocean views
Dining, Shopping & Relaxation
- Enjoy brunch at Pilú Kiosk, Little Collins, or Harbord Hotel
- Browse Freshwater Village boutiques and local makers’ stores
- Stroll to Manly for restaurants, wine bars, and weekend markets
Community & Culture
- Join surf lifesaving clubs or local ocean swim groups
- Support local art shows, school fairs, and community fundraisers
- Embrace the friendly, grounded spirit that defines “Freshie life”
Why Danielle Loves
freshwater & queenscliff
“Freshwater and Queenscliff capture the true spirit of the Northern Beaches, vibrant, walkable, and full of heart. From morning coffee at the village to sunset swims at Freshie Rock Pool, these suburbs radiate warmth and connection. It’s where the surf meets sophistication, and life feels beautifully balanced.”
danielle forde
what my clients say
Integrity and class
Integrity and honesty are rare in the real estate game, but Danielle has it in spades. Working with her was a pleasure. From styling to selling, she displayed her extensive experience. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
An agent you can trust absolutely
Danielle and her team were great to work with and did a superb job of maximising our sale price. They were a pleasure to deal with. Trustworthy and Professional
I sold my house at Palm Beach through Danielle Forde at LJ Hooker Palm Beach. I found her and her colleagues to be professional and trustworthy in my dealing with them and had confidence they were working in my interests. Trustworthy and Professional
I sold my house at Palm Beach through Danielle Forde at LJ Hooker Palm Beach. I found her and her colleagues to be professional and trustworthy in my dealing with them and had confidence they were working in my interests. Trustworthy and Professional
I sold my house at Palm Beach through Danielle Forde at LJ Hooker Palm Beach. I found her and her colleagues to be professional and trustworthy in my dealing with them and had confidence they were working in my interests. FAQs About Freshwater & Queenscliff
What is Freshwater’s village lifestyle like?
Freshwater has a warm, community-focused atmosphere with a true coastal village heart. The main street is lined with cafés, bakeries, wholefoods stores, boutiques and relaxed dining — and everything is walkable. The beach is beautiful and sheltered, the surf is consistent, and there’s a strong sense of belonging.
Locals often say that Freshie feels like a community, not just a location. There are surf clubs, yoga classes, early-morning ocean swims, and familiar faces at The Harbord Hotel or local cafés.
It suits those who value:
- A gentle, connected neighbourhood feel
- A walkable village
- Healthy, active, beach-centred living
It’s relaxed, friendly, and quietly stylish — without ever trying too hard.
Does Queenscliff offer better views and access to Manly?
Generally, yes. Queenscliff sits on the headland between Freshwater and Manly, making it wonderfully positioned for:
- Coastal views
- Easy access to Manly’s dining and ferry
- A more elevated, breezy feel
Are there off-market opportunities in these suburbs?
Yes — particularly for:
- Architect-designed family homes
- Homes with ocean or headland views
- Boutique apartment buildings with strong outlooks
- Freshwater properties close to the village or beach
What type of properties are most common?
Freshwater
Queenscliff
- Characterful family homes with coastal gardens and a gentle, lived-in feel
- Tasteful renovations that blend relaxed beach style with modern comfort
- Boutique apartments near the village and beach
- Classic surf-side homes full of heart and soul
Queenscliff
- Elevated family homes designed to capture light and views
- Architect-designed contemporary residences with glass, timber and ocean outlooks
- Renovated apartments and townhomes with breezy balconies
- Homes perfectly positioned for coastal walks and Manly access
- Coastal calm
- Texture and natural materials
- Breezy indoor-outdoor living
- Spaces made for connection and ease
