Secret seclusion: Sydney's hidden harbourfront havens

Tucked away from the bustling tourist hotspots, Sydney’s hidden harbourfronts offer an escape that feels worlds apart, unveiling a side of the city that often goes unnoticed – that is, unless you know where to look.

From the idyllic swimming baths of Northbridge, Greenwich and Watson’s Bay to the serene waterfront parks of Clifton Gardens and Pyrmont, Sydneysiders are spoiled for choice. Likewise, the calm waters and sandy shores of Clontarf Beach and Nielsen Park in Vaucluse are delightful, boasting picture-perfect surroundings.

Further down the river toward Parramatta, another hidden gem is stepping into the spotlight. Putney, which is having a renaissance, is attracting greater attention for its desirable lifestyle. It is a gateway to the harbour, with boat ramp access, riverfront walks, lush parks and easy access to Sydney Olympic Park and the CBD.

“Putney is a secluded suburb that has gone under the radar but is tremendously popular for those who have uncovered it – riverfront walks, a village high street, extensive parkland, yet within close proximity to the CBD,” says Abadeen Group chief operating officer Joe Tack. 

Steve Lawler, a Putney resident for the past 12 years, appreciates the area’s strong community spirit. “It’s quiet and leafy, considering we’re only 20 minutes from the city,” he says. “We’re close to the river, and there are several major shopping centres and high-quality schools nearby.”

Much like the city’s other harbourfront suburbs, like Balmain in Sydney’s Inner West, Lawler revels in Putney’s waterside aspect, its walking and cycle paths and its comparative spaciousness and access to Kissing Point Wharf.

“Kissing Point Wharf is a local favourite, it has excellent facilities and a boat ramp,” he says. “Plus, it’s a great fishing spot.”

Adding to Putney is an exciting new development that’s transforming the historic Halvorsen boatshed into a vibrant lifestyle destination. Disused and closed to the public for several decades, this revitalised waterfront area is poised to become one of Sydney’s most desirable. 

“With a rich boating history and having been the home to successful boat-building business of the Halvorsen family, we feel obligated to restore, preserve and celebrate the site’s history,” Tack says.

A joint venture between Abadeen Group and PERIFA, the Putney Wharf Residences (PWR) will feature a lively mixed-use precinct, including three-storey townhouses and a range of two, three, and four-bedroom apartments defined by high ceilings and heritage features. All are designed to appeal to downsizers and owner-occupiers alike. 

“Putney Wharf Residences represents an extraordinary opportunity to transform this rare waterfront site into a dynamic lifestyle precinct with retail, dining and luxury waterfront living – akin to Woolloomooloo Wharf,” says PERIFA co-founder and managing director Fabrizio Perilli.

Designed by renowned Sydney architects SJB, the revitalised Putney Wharf will offer dynamic waterfront dining and retail spaces, along with a private marina with 36 berths (subject to DA approval) for boats up to 20 metres – a dream for boating enthusiasts.

The team’s commitment to heritage is also evident in the design, which blends contemporary architecture with original elements, such as exposed timber beams, to create stunning, character-rich interiors. 

“Direct access to 300 metres of harbourfront, combined with a variety of residential options including warehouse conversions and new low-rise apartments, will create a unique place to live and visit,” Tack says.

Envisioned as a vibrant gathering hub, the new development aims to reflect local culture through diverse dining and shopping experiences. 

As Sydney’s waterfront suburbs like Putney continue to evolve, they promise a unique blend of community, nature and convenience, making them sought-after destinations for those seeking a blend of serenity and vibrancy. 

Putney Wharf Residences

20 Waterview Street, Putney, NSW 2112

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