by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.

Watsons Bay Hotel from the water (image JW)
Watsons Bay Hotel is 11kms from the CBD of Sydney and a million kms from care. The hotel was established over 180 years ago was completely revitalised by new owners in 2013. Start your outing with a short but scenic ferry ride from Sydney or Manly. Driving is possible but not as relaxing and street parking is at a premium on weekends. You can also arrive by water taxi, bus or
Uber.

All this and more (image JW)
The
Beach Club garden next to the bar is full of picnic tables and striped umbrellas, whereas the upper deck has a variety of seating styles suitable for couples and groups. Grab a
drink or a cocktail carafe and soak in the views.

With a view to fun (image JW)

Enjoy a carafe of Pimms (image JW)
There is no table service here, order from the extensive
menu at the bar and receive a buzzer. The staff are friendly and relaxed and the food is prepared quite quickly considering the number of meals served.

Prawn salad for $26 (image JW)
The Amalfi prawn salad was light and tasty but not very filling. The eight prawns were fresh, sweet and crisp but there was not much substance to the salad. Four sliders of soft shell crab for $23 were a very popular choice.

Salmon crudo (image JW)
The salmon crudo for $22 was interesting with the lettuce leaf taco shells and was pronounced delicious by the diner. I was very happy with my lunch of sustainable tuna poke for $25, which was fresh and filling. The combination of the soy sesame dressing, raw tuna, seaweed, cabbage and chilli was salty, crunchy and spicy.

Sustainable tuna poke (image JW)
The hotel is family friendly and offers a range of
school holiday activities. There is a takeaway menu and they cater for large events and weddings. DJs get the place rocking on Saturday nights and the Sunset Sounds Sessions are a great way to celebrate Sydney. Watsons Bay Hotel offers special accommodation with 31 boutique rooms and suites.
Watsons Bay Hotel is a great place to chill out in Sydney whether you are a local or a tourist!