The Shire is well known for its abundance of outdoor activities, from pristine beaches to the lush Royal National Park. But what happens when the weather forecast looks bleak and an indoor adventure is the only option? Have no fear, there is plenty to keep you busy in the Shire. We’ve highlighted a list of just some of the indoor experiences you can enjoy whilst sheltering from the rain. Be warned, some are so good, you may never want to go outdoors again.
Peruse a gallery
Galleries can be a perfect way to spend a day and the Shire has plenty of options for any art lover. The picturesque Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre, set amongst 1.5 hectares of beautiful grounds has a roster of exhibits, showcasing local and international artists as well as offering a range of art, pottery and jewellery classes to keep you entertained all day. Art Gallery Kurnell is a must-do on any artistic adventure in the Shire. The gallery is run by a cooperative of ten local artists, showcasing a range of art and if you are lucky, you can watch an artist in action.
Brush up on your history
Use the rain as an excuse to swot up on the history of the Sutherland Shire. The Sutherland Shire Historical Society Museum transports its visitors back in time, giving an insight into the rich heritage of Captain Cook’s landing as well as a range of other incredible stories and teachings of the Dharawal people. The museum is only open on Saturdays, so cross your fingers for stormy days on the weekend. If you are more interested in transport history, the Sydney Tramway Museum in Loftus is the place for you. Experience a unique window into history as you hop on a historical tram and ride 4km of track. After your ride you can peruse the collection of trams dating as far back as the 19th century – a great family day out. Tickets are between $10- $18 and is run entirely by volunteers so every dollar towards the entry fee goes to keeping the museum running.
Learn a craft
Want to flex your creative muscles? Something at Mary’s in Bundeena offers ceramics and pottery classes to turn novices into experts. From teapots to bowls, your teacher Marion will guide you through the process of creating. Classes are kept small so you can really benefit from her expertise. If you still aren’t sold take a look at the glowing reviews which will have you buying a voucher quicker than you can smash a plate. Perhaps you fancy yourself the next Masterchef? The Village Cooks offer a range of cooking classes from baking profiteroles to making your own pasta. Their kitchen in Sylvania is intimate, with class sizes at a maximum of 6, ensuring you can hone your cooking skills to perfection.
Nothing says crafty like learning about your favourite craft beers. Sydney’s south has quietly been making its mark in the craft beer scene with not one but three local breweries now pouring pints in the Shire. Shark Island Brewing has been a fixture in Kirrawee since 2015 with Hairyman Brewery pouring pints at their Taren Point location since 2016. The latest addition is Sunday Road Brewing, offering their award winning ales in their Kirrawee home. So ‘hop’ to it and drink your way through the best beer in the Shire.
Listen to local live music
Treat your ears to some of the best local live music in the Shire. Local favourite, Brass Monkey in Cronulla has been drawing homegrown and international talent for twenty years. Hosting a variety of genres from jazz, rock, pop, funk and much more, have a look at their heaving roster of artists and take your pick. If you enjoy music a little more low key, Grind Espresso becomes home to talented local musicians on special evenings. Enjoy a late caffeine hit and latin inspired guitar strums.
Have a hearty meal at a pub favourite
Nothing quite says ‘hiding from the rain’ like whiling an afternoon away at a pub. Miranda Hotel is a must visit for anyone seeking shelter, with a produce driven menu of pub classics with a twist. Firm favourites are the Buttermilk Chicken Schnitzel or Fresh Market Fish and pickled seaweed. Brush up on your general knowledge and head down for Trivia Tuesday’s for the chance to impress your friends and win a cash prize. If you can’t quite stay away from the beach, infamous jaunt, Northies Cronulla Hotel may be the place to be. Overlooking the Cronulla coast, you can unwind and gorge on a bistro menu or catch up on the latest game at their sports bar. Northies has a roster of fun events and activities to keep you entertained, from Espresso Martini Month to their Chilli Festival, you are bound to find something to enjoy.
Watch the latest flick
One of the best things to do on a wet day is to grab a bucket of popcorn and settle in to watch a blockbuster. Event Cinemas in Miranda or GU Film House in Cronulla screen the newest releases in luxury seating or offer some throwbacks at special showings of old school classics. Theatre lover? GU Film House has you covered, with one-off screenings of Royal Opera House stage performances, from opera to cinema! For the royal treatment, upgrade to a Gold Class experience at the Event Cinemas for plush upholstery, ample leg room and food and drink delivered to your seat.
Strike out
Release your inner child and hit the lanes at Zone Bowling in Sylvania. Practice your bowling moves under the fluorescent lights, music pumping and aim for a strike. Once you’ve worked up an appetite on one of the 24 bowling lanes, enjoy a shared feast of hot dogs and fries. Not had enough fun? Prepare to get your blood pumping with the adrenaline-filled laser arena. Go in a group or even as a lone wolf and fire your way through the laser room. Climb Fit in Kirrawee is a perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon for kids and adults alike. There is a variety of climbing walls to scale, guaranteed to keep you entertained whether you are a first timer or seasoned pro. Got a taste for adventure? Jump at the chance to defy the laws of gravity at Sky Zone Miranda or Flip Out in Caringbah. These two trampoline parks offer an experience that will have you literally bouncing off the walls – the ultimate kids day out.
By Rebecca Mason.
