9 Free Things To Do In The Shire

Strapped for cash or trying to save your dollars? We’ve got you!

Visit One Of The Shire’s 12 Best Picnic Spots

The Shire is a picnickers dream with oodles of coastal, park, bush and riverside backdrops to choose from. Dust off the grip ball and the cricket set, dig out some treats from the pantry and prep yourself for a few hours of pure relaxation. Check out our favourite picnic spots Shire-wide right here. 

Whale Watch At Cape Solander 

Cape Solander is one of the best whale-watching locations in Sydney. Whilst requiring a certain level of patience, whale watching can be pretty thrilling stuff if you’re lucky enough to catch a breach or fin slap. Your chances are best from May to late July as the whales stick close to the coast on their way down to Antarctica.

Soak Up Some Art at Hazelhurst 

This small but mighty art gallery packs a punch. Hazelhurst champions local artists and also hosts several renowned exhibitions each year, from the Archibald Prize to Art Express. The expansive gardens are a fab place to enjoy a picnic or coffee. You can pop on over here to check out what is currently on display.

Explore The Shire’s Best Walks

With the Royal National Park on our doorstep and coastline galore, there’s no surprise a leisurely walk is a weekend ritual for most locals. Whether you’re feeling a small meander or more of an all-day affair, we’ve got every kind of walker covered with our article on The 12 Best Walks In The Sutherland Shire.

Oak Park, Cronulla. Image credit: Studio Ahwa.

Take A Rockpool Dip Or Hit The Beach

Cronulla boasts a handful of ocean pools that are ideal for a couple of laps, a quick dip or a day spent camped on the rocks. If the thrill of diving under waves is more your thing, head to one of Cronulla’s sandy beaches instead. High summer or dead winter, you’ll find locals embracing the benefits of a saltwater swim. Why not do the same? 

Hit Up The Ridge Sporting Complex 

When not being used for weekend sports, The Ridge is great for a spot of outdoor activity. Make use of the athletics track, netball courts, dog park and playing fields. We recommend dusting off the roller skates and hitting the courts!

Enjoy A Window Shop Along Cronulla Mall or A Saturday Stroll Through The Farmer’s Market

Now, both of these ideas have the potential to end up quite expensive, but with a little bit of willpower and self-control, window shopping can be quite a fun thing to do. Whether you’re building up a wish list or simply “just browsing”, Cronulla’s open-air mall gives off quality holiday vibes. You’ll find everything from fashion and homewares to books. The regular busker sets the mood for a wander quite nicely. The Farmers Markets are just as fun, full of local produce and independent makers!

Take A Trip To Your Local Library 

Joining the library is absolutely free and gains you access to thousands of books, DVDs, CDs, magazines and audiobooks. The Shire is home to eight libraries so you’re spoilt for choice. Take advantage of the library's online offering and snag an audiobook to accompany you on your next walk or go old-school and grab a novel to enjoy in the park. 

Jump Aboard The Bundeena And Maianbar Art Trail 

With proximity to the Royal National Park and a step away from the hustle and bustle, Bundeena and Maianbar are home to many local artists. The Art Trail, taking place on the first Sunday of each month, gives you the opportunity to view art, speak to the artists, purchase pieces and visit their studios or galleries. Maps are available from each gallery whilst blue and white flags designate which studio spaces are open.