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Governor Phillip Park, the location for Dunes Restaurant, is on a sandy tombolo which was formed about 7,000 years ago. It links the mainland to Barrenjoey Headland. For centuries, the Ku-ring-gai people lived along the peninsula with an abundant provision of fish, seals, marine life and hunting lands. In 1788, the region was explored by the then Captain Phillip, who commented it was "The finest piece of water I ever saw," and named it Pittwater. The park was named after him, in 1952.
Some historical sites within the park include The Lightkeeper's Quarters where, in 1868, two white wooden beacons with oil-burning lights were erected on the headland and tendered by keepers residing nearby in small cottages.
The Old Ranger's Cottage, which today is Dunes, was the home of the ranger and his wife who looked after the North Palm Beach camping grounds during the 60's and 70's. Having discovered the old house in 1988, Stefan Leibenatus, now Executive Chef, made it his ambition to turn this historic structure, with its' idyllic location, into a restaurant. After he and his wife won the tender in 2001, they started the transformation into the delightful Dunes Restaurant and Kiosk we can all enjoy today.
Stefan and Cathie made use of the buildings' natural north facing position and protection from cooler southerly winds, allowing visitors to enjoy long hours of warm sunshine. After extensive renovations using natural materials, combining eclectic decor with art from a number of locals, Dunes opened in 2006.
Dunes Restaurant Menus - pdf downloads
| breakfast | Beverage | Cocktail List | a la carte | valentines day menu |
