Jonah's, Whale Beach, Sydney, Australia - Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler
"How did it strike you on arrival? Just an hour’s drive north of Sydney, ocean retreat Jonah’s is a dreamy hilltop getaway above dramatic Whale Beach. Approach by air with 20-minute scenic flights from the city’s Rose Bay Water Airport with Sydney Seaplanes, landing on nearby Pittwater, where a courtesy vehicle escorts you from the jetty. Founded in 1929, this elegant white boutique hotel makes an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Northern Beaches in style. Nice. What’s the crowd like? Jet-set city slickers and international globetrotters escape to exclusive Jonah’s, which has a smart-casual dress code in its destination restaurant. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Local design firm Baxter + Thrum recently renovated Jonah’s 10 Ocean Retreat and one larger Peninsula rooms. Each features a soothing coastal palette of chic white, navy, oatmeal, pale wood and gold accents, with oak herringbone parquetry flooring, bronze lamps, textured wallpaper and linen sofas. Private balconies have jaw-dropping water views. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? Super-comfy King beds by Australia’s A.H. Beard have large quilted headboards. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Rooms include mini-bars and Vittoria coffee machines. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. High-pressure walk-in showers, a pampering spa bath, soft robes and Molton Brown products make bathing a pleasure. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? There’s free in-room Wi-Fi, plus over 350 complimentary movies. Room service: Worth it? Packages include breakfast, dinner, and various indulgent, gourmet and romantic escapes including massages, Champagne, boat cruises, hampers and treats. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? Italian-born chef Matteo Zamboni heads up Jonah’s acclaimed, formal restaurant, where suited waiters serve you with grace. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. Book well in advance for The Restaurant at Jonah's, a white, light space serving Italian-influenced contemporary Australian cuisine with fine Australian and international wines. The award-winning cellar stocks 1,600 wines including vintage labels. Choose between a six-course tasting menu or two, three or four à la carte courses, with optional matched wines, or order a seafood feast for two. Alternatively, enjoy simpler share plates outdoors on The Terrace. The Bar serves cocktails using house-made syrups, with Bar & Terrace menu snacks. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? Jonah’s clifftop gardens and swimming pool are sun-kissed temptations. Even if you’re not staying overnight, experience lunch or dinner here to soak up sensational seaside views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Past celebrity guests include royals, rock stars, actors and models, from Mick Jagger to Jerry Hall, Bono, Michael Caine, Anthony Hopkins and Justin Bieber." - Sophie Davies
