The Ultimate Shire Bucket List

Which ones have you ticked off?  With warm spring days upon us and the ease of restrictions around the corner, there’s never been a better time to get out and explore the Shire. To help, we’ve rounded up 12 bucket list experiences. Which ones have you ticked off? And which ones will you try first? Over to you!  

1. Sip on an Apple Martini from Alphabet St.  

It may sound strange to start a bucket list with a cocktail, but this isn’t just any kind of cocktail. This is Alphabet St’s iconic Apple Martini. Customers travel from near and far to get their hands on this top-secret mix and we can understand why. With the perfect balance of fresh and sour, it’s impossible to stop at just one.

5/8 Kingsway, Cronulla 

2. Try Authentic Italian Pizza from Queen Margherita 

There is plenty of excellent pizza in the Shire but only one has earned the title of serving authentically Neapolitan pizza. Insert: Queen Margherita. The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) has the task of verifying and authorising ‘true Naples’ pizza ensuring the traditional pizza-making methods are adhered to. Queen Margherita is one of only 8 Sydney pizza joints that follow the strict discipline of the AVPN. And if you’re struggling with taking your pick, we suggest the Prosciutto Crudo E Rucola. Thank us later.

Shop 9, 2 Surf Road, Cronulla

3. Taste Giro Osteria’s Cacio e Pepe (aka Cheese Wheel Pasta)

Originating from the city of Rome, Giro’s simple yet show-stopping Cacio e Pepe has built a name for itself. Meaning ‘cheese and pepper’ the pasta is brought out in a cheese wheel and mixed right in front of you as the sides of the wheel are scraped to ensure maximum cheesiness. Finished with cracked pepper, this dish is minimal but unforgettable.

3/1 McDonald St, Cronulla

4. Take Your Furry Friend For A Sunrise Walk at Greenhills Beach

Nothing lights up the soul like watching the sunrise and spending time with our furry loved ones. This early morning favourite combines both! Greenhills Beach is certainly one of the best places in the Shire to watch the sun come up. Dog-friendly until 10:00am, your better half can have fun in and out of the water as you smash the 4km walk to Boat Harbour and back. Now that’s what we call a perfect start to the day.

Greenhills, Cronulla

5. Kayak the Woronora or Port Hacking River

Soak in the spring rays with a kayak along the Woronora River or Port Hacking! Woronora is surrounded by an abundance of bushland and natural beauty that is waiting to be explored. Grab some takeaway from Woronora Boatshed before you hire your kayak to enjoy at one of the many secluded beaches along the way. Insider’s tip: While you’re there, check out their old school lolly shelves. We guarantee it’ll bring back some memories.

Over on the Port Hacking, Bundeena Kayaks operates from Bonnie Vale in the Royal National Park, offering both kayak hire and guided paddles. The beautiful waterways of the Hacking will blow you away!

6. Enjoy A Sunset Picnic at Salmon Haul

Salmon Haul has to be one of the most renowned spots to throw down a rug, with its crystal clear water and panoramic views of the Port Hacking. Add your favourite takeaway and drink of choice and you’re set for a tranquil afternoon or night by the water. For the perfect picnic feast, opt for Fish and Chips from Notaras, Sushi from Green Shiso or Pizza from Queen Margherita.

58 Glaisher Parade, Cronulla

7. Take the Ferry to Bundeena and Spend a Night in one of Bundeena’s Most Luxurious Stays

The Shire is home to some unforgettable stays that are perfect for a weekend away in your own backyard. Forget three-hour-long car rides and cancelled flights, take a ferry to Bundeena and check into Simpsons Cottage, Bundeena Boatshed or Hilltop Cottage. For a closer look, click here.

8. Book an OTT Boats & Baskets Picnic Experience

Haven’t heard of Boats & Baskets? It’s your lucky day! Boats & Baskets offer premium pop-up beach picnics with private boat transfers to and from your location, chosen based on the tide, wind and weather on the day. A dreamy picnic set-up awaits your arrival, from beach umbrellas, chairs and tables to a Loaf hamper, drinks and an esky. This is an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come. Inside scoop: Boats & Baskets are now accepting Dine & Discover vouchers.

9. Stop by Bec Bakes For The Ultimate Sweet Treat

You can’t be a true Shire resident if Bec Bakes irresistible sweet treats haven’t graced your taste buds. Known for her OTT cupcakes, Mega NYC cookies and delicious range of slices, Bec has built a name for herself in the Shire and for good reason. The line down Cawarra road speaks for itself! Flying off their virtual shelves weekly, you can order Bec's treats online until in-store Friday and Saturday trading resumes. Jump over here to order.

27 Cawarra Road, Caringbah

10. Work Your Way Through the Shire’s Best Homewares Stores

Whether you’re in the market for a complete home makeover, a stylish new addition or just wanting to kill a few hours, these Shire-based homewares stores are a must. From monochrome essentials to coastal elegance and boho chic, this long list covers every style and taste. View our top 8 homeware stores here.

11. Learn to Surf or Hire a Stand-Up Paddleboard

Learn the art of wave riding with Cronulla Surfing Academy. These guys make surfing simple and will have you bragging about your skills in no time. If crashing waves aren’t your thing (we get it), consider hiring a stand-up paddleboard for a peaceful afternoon exploring the bays of the Hacking. Start at Gunnamatta and see where the paddle takes you!

12. Swim in One of the Many Ocean Pools or Tidal River Baths

The 10km stretch from Greenhills to Salmon Haul is lined with beautiful ocean pools, perfect for summer days in and around the water. Bonus: they’re tide (and shark) safe! A local favourite is Shelley Beach Rock Pool. Pick up some takeaway from Shelley Park’s old school sandwich bar or the much-loved Nun’s Pool and then head down for a dip. Around the corner you’ll find Gunnamatta Bay Tidal Baths, home to a netted swimming area and rows of designated ‘jumping’ spots, providing hours of entertainment for the kids.