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Experience Sunset Sessions at Q Station Manly, where live local music, gourmet seafood hampers, and stunning Sydney Harbour views come together for an unforgettable outdoor evening. Discover why this coastal event is the perfect blend of culture and nature.
Experience Sunset Sessions at Q Station Manly, where live local music, gourmet seafood hampers, and stunning Sydney Harbour views come together for an unforgettable outdoor evening. Discover why this coastal event is the perfect blend of culture and nature.
Book with Quarantine Station
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
323 ratings
Operated by Quarantine Station · Manly, New South Wales
Perched along the northern shores of Sydney Harbour, Q Station Manly offers more than just sweeping views—it hosts Sunset Sessions, a lively outdoor event that blends live local music, gourmet food, and the natural beauty of New South Wales’ coastline. Held at The Glasshouse, an open-air venue with panoramic vistas overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour, this experience provides a laid-back but vibrant way to soak up the region’s coastal charm as the sun dips below the waterline.
Located just a short drive or ferry ride from downtown Sydney, Manly is a well-loved beachside suburb known for its sandy beaches, ocean trails, and remarkable harbourfront scenery. Q Station itself is a historic former quarantine station, now transformed into a cultural hub setting where nature, history, and modern entertainment meet.
Sunset Sessions offers an effortless escape: guests settle onto the grassy hill of The Glasshouse with picnic blankets and foldable chairs, tuning into performances from carefully curated local bands that bring an authentic and intimate atmosphere. The lineup often features indie, folk, and acoustic acts that complement the gentle sea breeze and twilight glow. Adding to the flavor of the evening, Whipbird Wines partners with the event to provide a complimentary glass of wine upon entry, setting the tone for a relaxing yet memorable session.
Culinary offerings emphasize fresh, coastal-inspired eats. Patrons can pre-order seafood hampers with artisan cheeses and snacks or purchase on-site selections during the event. The no-BYO policy ensures professional quality and variety for food and drink, while maintaining environmental care and venue rules. Sunset Sessions elevates the traditional picnic or concert outing by combining stylish comfort, world-class views, and community-driven entertainment.
Aside from the music and meals, the site’s connection to Sydney Harbour National Park enriches the experience with glimpses of local wildlife and native greenery. Visitors are encouraged to watch their step on the historic grounds, which include walking paths with moderate inclines, steps, and well-maintained lawns flanked by native flora.
With a ticketed entry and limited capacity, Sunset Sessions is popular among locals and visitors seeking a weekday or weekend retreat that blends culture, nature, and exceptional views. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a casual catch-up with friends, or a solo unwind session, this event highlights the best of Manly’s outdoor lifestyle.
Come early to find your spot, bring your sun protection on warm days, and enjoy one of Sydney’s most picturesque seaside gatherings. The energy of live music paired with the serene backdrop of Sydney Harbour makes Sunset Sessions a must-attend whenever you’re in the region.
easy.
4 hours.
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Tickets may be available at the door if not sold out, but pre-booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Free parking is available on site but limited; carpooling, public transport, or ridesharing is advised.
The Glasshouse area is wheelchair accessible, though the site has hills and steps. Shuttle buses are not wheelchair accessible.
No BYO food or alcohol is permitted; food and drinks are available to purchase or pre-order.
Events are canceled in case of rain; ticket holders will be notified and offered refunds or rescheduled dates.
Yes, chairs, picnic rugs, and umbrellas are welcome to enhance your comfort.
Q Station was Sydney's quarantine station from 1832 to 1984, making this one of Australia's most historically significant sites.
The site operates within Sydney Harbour National Park with strict environmental guidelines to protect native flora and fauna.
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.
Book with Quarantine Station