Your ultimate guide for a day of rest and relaxation in the Sutherland Shire

Nothing beats the feeling of peace that comes from a good yoga session. From downward dog to everyone’s favourite – child’s pose, there's something so special about prioritising your mind and body for an hour of bliss. At Shelly Beach in Cronulla, not only do you get the relaxing benefits of your yoga practice, but you also get to indulge in the peaceful sounds of the ocean swells. To find out more about the outdoor yoga sessions available at Shelly Beach, head to the @beachyogacronulla Instagram.

In the heart of Cronulla is a beautiful beach walk that follows Cronulla Esplanade. From Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club to Bass and Flinders Point, you’ll pass parks, playgrounds, cafés, beaches and child-friendly rockpools. Take in the fresh air as you walk the 4-kilometre coastal walk that takes no longer than an hour. For dinner and drinks post-walk, we recommend Summer Salt for its excellent seafood, the Mediterranean grill restaurant Hurricane’s or small plate extraordinaire CC Babcoq. Then for drinks head to Sista Gin for scrumptious cocktails and the Blind Bear for speakeasy vibes and buffalo wings.

No relaxing day is complete without going to a day spa. At Beauty and Balance day spa, splurge on a holistic facial or a relaxing massage and feel totally refreshed. Try a lymphatic and oxygen flow facial, or a lock in moisture facial – involving a hydrating mask that melts into the skin while LED healing light leaves you with a glow. To find out more about what’s on offer at Beauty and Balance day spa, head to the website.

Every Saturday from 8am-1pm, head to the Shire Farmers Market for nourishing fresh produce, coffee and delicious treats. Wander through market stalls of local favourites, and absorb the wholesome atmosphere of the market. We recommend grabbing a few items like cheese, fresh fruit and pastries, before laying down a blanket at your local park and having your own special picnic. Find out more about Shire Farmers Market on Instagram here.

For something a little more active, but peaceful nonetheless, consider hiring a bike to explore the beautiful coastline or one of the many national parks in the Sutherland Shire. Hire a bike and ride out to the Kurnell in the southern headland of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, where you can admire our native plant life and maybe even spot a whale. Or if your bike riding skills are a bit rusty, then for a more relaxing option try the blissful flat pathway of Woolooware Bay Shared Pathway. To rent a bike in the heart of Cronulla, head to Chain Reaction Bicycle Company website.

Another great way to get up close and connect with nature is to head out on a guided kayaking tour with Bundeena Kayaks. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there are a variety of kayaking options for all skill levels. For beginners, there is the three-hour Royal Kayak Eco Tour or Sunset Beach Kayak Tour where expert guides take you through the lush landscapes of the surrounding Royal National Park. For the kayaking aficionados, you can book a one way 10-kilometre self-guided kayak trip, where you’ll get to paddle the full stretch of the Hacking River. To book your tour, head to the Bundeena Kayaks website.

Escape to a coastal village with a luxurious stay at Simpson Cottage in Bundeena. However, there’ll be no Homer, Marge, Lisa, Bart and Maggie here – instead be immersed in beautiful water views and private access to Bonnie Vale Beach and the Royal National Park. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Cronulla and an hour’s drive from Sydney CBD, this tranquil heritage listed cottage is like your own little slice of paradise. To book this three-bedroom cottage, head to the Simpson Cottage website.

For more information about what’s on offer at the Sutherland Shire, head to the website here.