13 November 2025
Frenchs Forest, the tree-change with WiFi: where nature lovers meet savvy upgraders.
Perched just above the beaches, Frenchs Forest is the leafy sibling in the Northern Beaches family — the one who shops at Harris Farm, owns a fire pit, and casually drops phrases like “we’ve got solar now” into conversation. It’s where nature and Netflix co-exist in harmony, and where families come for space, schools, and a bit of serenity without sacrificing brunch options or broadband speed.
A day in the life of a Frenchs Forest local
Mornings here often begin with birdsong (yes, really), followed by a bushwalk or dog stroll through nearby trails, maybe even a cycle down to the Glen Street Theatre or refreshed Forestway Shopping Centre (Arndale for the long-timers) — because yes, everything’s a bit newer and shinier here these days.
By 9am, locals are juggling it all: remote work on the back deck, school drop-offs, or squeezing in a reformer Pilates session at Feels before that first video call. Kids are likely in sports gear, scooters at the ready, and more than one lunchbox includes something homemade with chia seeds.
Come the weekend, it’s home reno central. You’ll find half the street at Bunnings and the other half comparing veggie patch results. And when the DIY dust settles, everyone gathers for backyard BBQs that turn into late-night marshmallow roasting sessions under festoon lights.
The vibe
Frenchs Forest has always had that quiet achiever energy, but in recent years, it’s stepped confidently into the spotlight. With more young families moving in from across Sydney (and a few Manly escapees who’ve discovered they can get a double the house and twice the yard), the area has evolved without losing its green heart.
Locals love the space, the peace, and the fact that you can hear the kookaburras at dusk. They also love that the Northern Beaches are a 10-minute drive away — so you can have your nature and your ocean, too.
Property pickings
It’s all about space here. Generous blocks, family homes with proper backyards (remember those?), and leafy streets that still feel suburban without being sleepy. You’ll find a mix of well-loved originals, knockdown-rebuilds, and architect-designed upgrades with all the mod cons. Many come with granny flats, which means multi-gen living or extra rental income is a real possibility.
Local secrets
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The Forest Hotel has become a low-key local fave, especially after a reno and a solid kids’ menu.
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Head up to Lionel Watts for a local hang with a side of ball sports. With soccer (football), AFL, rugby league, netball, cricket, basketball and a dog park, everyone is covered.
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Locals affectionately call it “The Forest” — and they love telling you about how long it takes to get to the beach (spoiler: not long at all).
- Lastly, if you’re feeling lonely, head up to Glenrose Shopping Centre – you’re bound to run into someone you know. A one stop shop with supermarkets, restaurants, beauticians and cafes with acai bowls, it’s where the locals go to catch up on all the school yard goss.
As always, if you need help with your Frenchs Forest property, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and take a look at our current properties for sale in the Forest here.
