Newport Arms Hotel

Visiting the Newport Arms is an adventure in itself. The broad, blue expanse of Pittwater provides cooling breezes and a spectacular view of gently bobbing yachts, the perfect accompaniment to a beer and a meal from the bistro. It's a prime destination on a balmy afternoon. The pub is huge. The beer garden is huge. The schnitzels out of the bistro are huge. It's funny, really, at the Newport Arms. Bleached blonde mums walk around in capri pants and low-cut tops with their mini-me daughters in tow. The men sit in packs drinking schooners and the kids are off in groups causing mischief. The thing is, it's a very safe pub for families - there are arcade games on the deck, plenty of room outside for running around and there are always lots of other kids of all ages hanging around while their parents enjoy a beer, so there's always someone for them to play with. Make sure you head down on a weekend afternoon for free musical entertainment. If you're travelling from the CBD and over-indulge, be warned: it's a $90 cab ride back.