Drifting into a Dream

Tucked away in the charming coastal town of Coledale, our weekend retreat at ‘Drift’ was a dream come true. From the moment we stepped into this beachfront oasis, we were captivated by its rustic charm and inviting ambiance.

A quick few meters away are the beautiful shores of Coledale Beach, ‘Drift’ quickly became our home away from home. Waking up to the gentle melody of waves crashing against the shore, we felt a sense of peace wash over us, setting the tone for a weekend filled with relaxation and adventure.

Our cozy haven boasted all the comforts we could ask for and more. From the spacious bedrooms to the well-equipped kitchen, every detail was thoughtfully curated, to ensure our stay was nothing short of perfect. But it was the expansive deck overlooking the ocean that stole our hearts, providing the ideal backdrop for lazy mornings and breathtaking sunsets.

After soaking in the afternoon sun, we found ourselves drawn to the vibrant local scene, eager to explore the hidden gems of Coledale. Our first stop? The renowned Wolf and Woman Distillery, where we were met with the ultimate happy hour (stunning cocktails at cheap prices). From sampling small-batch gins to hearing the stories behind each unique blend, we were so impressed with the staff and quality of the distillery.

No weekend getaway would be complete without a visit to Resin Brewery, a lively hub of craft beer, great food and community spirit. Here, amidst the chatter of fellow beer enthusiasts, we raised our glasses in celebration of friendship and shared adventures. We couldn’t decide which beer was better but we left happy and full.

As we reluctantly said goodbye to ‘Drift’ and the seaside serenity of Coledale, we carried with us memories that would last a lifetime. Our weekend escape had been nothing short of magical, a time to reconnect with nature, with each other.

Things We Did

  • Hike
  • Scenic Drive
  • Distillery
  • Beach
  • Town
Photo 1 for undefined
Photo 2 for undefined
Photo 3 for undefined
Photo 4 for undefined
Photo 5 for undefined
Photo 6 for undefined
Photo 7 for undefined
Photo 8 for undefined
Photo 9 for undefined
Perched high above the coast, the Sea Cliff Bridge lookout offers stunning views of New South Wales. As we approached, the sound of crashing waves grew louder, building anticipation. From the lookout, we marveled at the ocean meeting the cliffs, with the bridge's graceful arches completing the scene. Seabirds glided in the breeze, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. It was a tranquil spot, where we could pause and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Photo 1 for undefined
Photo 2 for undefined
Photo 3 for undefined
Photo 4 for undefined
Photo 5 for undefined
Photo 6 for undefined
Photo 7 for undefined
Photo 8 for undefined
Photo 9 for undefined
Photo 10 for undefined
Nestled in Royal National Park, Otford Lookout offers stunning views of New South Wales' coastal beauty. As we arrived, excitement surged, eager to see the sights. From the lookout, we marveled at the deep blue Pacific Ocean stretching before us, framed by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. The iconic Sea Cliff Bridge added to the scene's charm. Overhead, seabirds glided, their calls mixing with rustling leaves, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Otford Lookout was a tranquil retreat, urging us to take a moment and appreciate nature's magnificence.
Photo 1 for undefined
Photo 2 for undefined
Photo 3 for undefined
Photo 4 for undefined
Photo 5 for undefined
Photo 6 for undefined
Photo 7 for undefined
Photo 8 for undefined
Photo 9 for undefined
Photo 10 for undefined
Photo 11 for undefined
As we stepped into the converted warehouse, the rustic charm of the space immediately captured our hearts. The cocktail hour was a highlight, where we indulged in a variety of handcrafted drinks, each one a testament to the distillery's dedication to quality and innovation. From classic gin cocktails to unique whisky concoctions, every sip was a journey of flavor and discovery. We were particularly impressed by the attention to detail in the distillation process, learning about the traditional techniques passed down through generations. After an evening of mingling and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, we retired to the cozy loft upstairs, where we were greeted by plush furnishings and charming decor. As we drifted off to sleep, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experience we had just had and looked forward to the adventures that awaited us in the morning. Wolf & Woman Distillery had exceeded all expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the art of craft distillation.
Photo 1 for undefined
Photo 2 for undefined
Photo 3 for undefined
Photo 4 for undefined
Photo 5 for undefined
Photo 6 for undefined
Photo 7 for undefined
Photo 8 for undefined
Photo 9 for undefined
Photo 10 for undefined
Photo 11 for undefined
Coledale Beach in NSW is famed for its stunning beauty and formidable waves, attracting surfers and beach lovers alike. With its golden sands and clear waters, it offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing and coastal strolls. Whether you're seeking thrills in the surf or tranquility on the shore, Coledale Beach guarantees an unforgettable seaside escape.
Photo 1 for undefined
Photo 2 for undefined
Photo 3 for undefined
Photo 4 for undefined
Photo 5 for undefined
Photo 6 for undefined
Photo 7 for undefined
Photo 8 for undefined
Photo 9 for undefined
Photo 10 for undefined
Photo 11 for undefined
You might almost overlook this charming little shop if you're driving too quickly. Situated just across from the beach, this delightful local pottery shop is owned by a husband and wife duo. Engaging in conversation with Phill, the artist, we were captivated by his fervor for pottery. We could have spent hours chatting with the couple and admiring their exquisite pieces.

Our Adventure Map

Where we stayed
Things we did

We've plotted our adventure on the map below. Select the map icons to discover more details.


Share The Love

Add this story to your bucket list or gift it to someone you think deserves it!

Gift this

Book Our Adventure

Book through this story to receive our itinerary and extra tips to help you live your adventure to the fullest.

What are Riparide Stories?

Riparide Stories are authentic experiences shared by real travellers (who are handy with a camera). It's like reading your best friend's travel journal - packed with photos, honest reviews and visual itineraries.