Distillery pot stills for brewing alcohol

Brookvale 2100
Neighbourhood

33.7650° S, 151.2704° E

Old industrial soul meets new creative buzz.

Brookvale (or Brookie) was once factories and warehouses, is now home to distilleries, brewers, roasters, makers, and cool brands doing things differently.

It’s got that working man’s edge, with a laid-back, surf-adjacent vibe. Head here for a cold brew (coffee or beer), browse local wares, or grab a bite from one of the many up-and-coming foodie spots.

Brookvale is no longer just a place you passed through. It’s a destination. Raw, creative, cool.

We’ve pulled together our favourite spots to surf, sip, shop, stay, play, chill, and get Saltee.

Download The Northern Beaches Guide
  • Bucket List

    Your guide to plastic-free living, conscious travel, and ocean-kind choices where Saltee locals surf, sip, shop, eat, stay, play, chill, and Get Saltee to make an impact.

  • Ocean & Coastline

    Swim at Manly Beach early morning when it’s quiet and support local lifeguards. Always swim between the flags.
    Stroll the Manly to Shelly Beach coastal track, spotting water dragons and leaving no trace behind.
    Snorkel or dive in Cabbage Tree Aquatic Reserve, a no-take marine sanctuary where the rule is look, don’t touch.
    Book a surfing lesson with local eco-conscious surf schools.
    Hire a stand-up paddle board or kayak from sustainable operators and explore Manly from the water.

  • Nature & Walks

    Take on the Manly to Spit Bridge Walk, 10km of spectacular coastline. Carry reusables and leave no rubbish.
    Watch sunrise or sunset at North Head Sanctuary, where cliffs meet bushland.
    Stop by Fairy Bower Rock Pool for a natural tidepool swim, remembering to protect fragile ecosystems.
    Wander local tracks, spot birdlife, and connect with the First Nations stories tied to the headland.

  • Sips & Eats

    Dine at The Boathouse Shelly Beach which is seasonal, ocean-facing, and minimal packaging.
    Sip cocktails at InSitu, where local menus meet small-bar charm.
    Start your morning at Barefoot Coffee Traders or Rollers Bakehouse. Remember your reusable keep cup in hand.
    Support local bakeries, fish shops, and gelato bars that champion eco-packaging and locally sourced ingredients.

  • Shop the Saltee Way

    Explore Manly Markets, a hub for local artisans, makers, and plastic-free finds.
    Browse sustainable surf gear and swimwear along The Corso.
    Support independent shops offering ceramics, jewellery, and homewares crafted by local hands.

  • Lifestyle & Culture

    Join a beach clean-up day to give back to the ocean.
    Catch a live gig at a local brewery or bar.
    Stretch into the morning with outdoor yoga or pilates by the beach.
    Visit the Manly Art Gallery & Museum for exhibitions inspired by the coast.
    Hire bikes to uncover Manly’s backstreets, beaches, and hidden tracks.

  • Saltee Slow Living

    Arrive by the Manly Ferry from Circular Quay, the most beautiful and sustainable way to cross the harbour.
    Pack a reusable bottle and reef-safe sunscreen for every outing.
    Support local businesses. One purchase at a time keeps Manly’s culture alive.
    Respect the coastline: stay plastic free, leave no trace, and tread lightly.



distilleries

6

breweries


2


makers & producers

15

cafes & restaurants


7

26


2,000

kilograms of plastic removed from the ocean

saltee stays

Surf. Sip. Shop. Eat. Stay. Play. Chill. Get Saltee.