Can anyone drop in spontaneously?

Yes, you can register your interest at any time, even after sessions begin, but please respect quiet times.

Where do I prepay for meals without my devices?

Prepayment is available at Wharf Cafe starting at 8am and Boilerhouse Restaurant from noon.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The detox continues at an alternative indoor location on-site to maintain comfort and quiet.

Is transport to Q Station included?

No, transport to and from the site is not included; visitors must arrange their own travel.

Are phones and smartwatches allowed at all?

Phones and smartwatches must be kept out of sight during the sessions to preserve the offline environment.

Who is this detox suitable for?

Anyone aged 15 or older looking for a peaceful screen-free break in a natural setting.

Offline Digital Detox Space in Manly: Reconnect with Nature and Yourself at Q Station

Located in the peaceful surrounds of Manly, New South Wales, the Offline Digital Detox Space at Q Station offers a rare opportunity to step away from screens and distractions and immerse yourself in a reflective outdoor retreat. Set on a grassy patch near the beach within the historic Wharf Precinct, this experience blends natural beauty with mindful disconnection. Here, the sound of gentle waves and soft ambient music cultivates a calm atmosphere, where visitors can unplug and settle into quiet activities like reading, painting, knitting, or journaling.

Q Station itself is a site rich in history, once a quarantine station established in the 19th century to protect Australia from infectious diseases arriving by ship. Today, this blend of heritage and nature creates a uniquely serene backdrop for visitors seeking balance and inspiration away from the digital noise.

Each 2.5-hour session is thoughtfully divided into two parts: an initial quiet time designed for personal reflection or creative pursuits, followed by a gentle social segment that encourages meaningful connection without the interference of digital devices. Participants are asked to keep phones and smartwatches tucked away, amplifying the focus on present-moment awareness and in-person interaction.

While the space is designed as a tranquil retreat, it also offers practical convenience. Healthy pre-paid meals can be collected from nearby Wharf Cafe or Boilerhouse Restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh brunch or lunch without the need to reconnect with their devices. The outdoor setting by the beach provides a refreshing environment with salt air and coastal views, ideal for mindful activities or a post-session swim or paddleboard outing.

This detox experience is recommended for individuals aged 15 and above who want to reset their relationship with technology in a supportive and natural environment. The balance of solitude and social engagement makes it easy to reawaken creativity, calm the mind, and foster genuine human connection.

The beauty of Q Station lies in its juxtaposition of natural Australian coastal flora and layered history, offering an experience that enriches both body and soul. Whether you're a local or visiting Manly, this unique escape makes for an essential stop if you want to unplug, recharge, and connect with the environment and yourself in an unhurried way.

About Quarantine Station

Quarantine Station in Manly, New South Wales preserves Australia’s quarantine history while offering a wide range of public programs and private experiences. Located on North Head overlooking Sydney Harbour, Quarantine Station operates guided history tours, family activities, community events and specialist paranormal investigations that explore the site’s layered past.

Visitors can join curated options such as the Inscription Trail, where over 1,500 carved and painted messages reveal personal stories, or themed guided walks like the Sydney Harbour History Talk and Tour and Manly Life By The Sea. Family-friendly experiences include scavenger hunts, Critter Quest, school holiday excursions and interactive kids tours that blend learning with outdoor play.

Quarantine Station also hosts seasonal and special events: Sunset Samba with Brazilian music and barbecue, Sunset Sessions, Yoga and Brunch by the Sea, Melbourne Cup and Christmas Lunch at the Boilerhouse Kitchen & Bar. Conservation and community programs include free Beach Clean Up events and Bush Care activities, with supplies and complimentary refreshments provided for volunteers.

History-focused offerings range from concise daytime tours to extended options such as the Disease & Burial History Tour, while evening experiences include family ghost walks, Ghostly Encounters, Extreme Ghost Hunt and private paranormal investigations for groups. Quarantine Station supports educational bookings for OOSH and vacation care providers with tailored itineraries.

Interpretation is delivered by experienced guides and structured programs on site. Quarantine Station’s combination of documented historical interpretation, public events and community initiatives makes it a reliable destination for visitors seeking heritage, family-friendly activities and immersive experiences in Manly.