A serene slice of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Clareville sits secluded along Pittwater’s shores, home to a beach imbued with locals-only charm and coveted properties hugging its shoreline. Framed by the lush Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, its landscape is ever-changing, especially on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons when sailing races enliven the waterway.
Sailing is at the heart of this seaside suburb’s lifestyle, anchored by the Avalon Sailing Club, a beloved institution formed over 85 years ago when waterfront land was a mere £150 for a 50-foot wide block. Overlooking waters known locally as “the Pond”, the club remains a hub of morning dinghy lessons and sunset watching from the verandah.
Phillip Whyburn, store manager at Le Pont Wine Store, embodies Clareville’s community spirit. The store, a treasure trove of curated wines, spirits, cheeses, and homewares, actively supports local events like the Pittwater Artists Trail, showcasing talented local artists.
“I’ve worked in fine wine retail all over the world, but nothing beats Clareville’s wonderful customers,” says Whyburn. “Our Friday and Saturday free wine tastings are a delight, welcoming regulars to discover new wines.”
Whyburn grew up with the Northern Beaches as his playground and has fond memories of Nippers at Dee Why, camping at The Basin, and kayaking around the peninsula’s bays.
“Clareville Beach is my happy place, perfect for watching sailboats drift by in the sun or enjoying a swim before and after work,” shares Phillip. “Although a bit hidden, it’s worth the visit – it’s always fun creating hampers for customers who picnic here by the water.”
Jono Gosselin of LJ Hooker Avalon Beach recalls the pandemic sparking a shift in lifestyle preferences and boosting demand in the Northern Beaches property market.
“The gains were particularly notable in higher-end markets like Clareville, where property values surged by nearly 50 per cent in 18 months,” he says. “While many Australian suburbs saw similar gains followed by corrections, Clareville has remained resilient.”
The suburb’s record sale price was $12 million, held by 76 Hudson Parade for nearly a decade. This record was surpassed twice with two waterfront sales and most recently trumped by 72 Hudson Parade, which sold for $14.6 million in February. Despite limited beachfront properties, demand continues to grow.
“Currently listed is 10 Delecta Avenue, with direct beach access, a resort-style pool, and north-facing views up Pittwater to Lion Island,” describes Gosselin. “Outdoor entertaining areas extend to level lawns and the beach, allowing you to host a lavish dinner party one night and relish a quiet beach day the next – such is the charm of life in Clareville.”
Price guide: $12 million
Agent: LJ Hooker Avalon Beach, Jonothan Gosselin 0488 011 870
Maximising its exquisite waterfront setting, the heart of this beachfront beauty is a sun-drenched living area anchored by an Escea gas fireplace, flowing like a breeze to a deck, level lawn, and beach on one side, and a private courtyard with a heated pool and spa on the other.