About Mona Vale Hotel
Mona Vale Hotel (often called The Mona ) is a large coastal pub and entertainment hub on 2 Park Street in Mona Vale, NSW (totalvenue.com.au ). It seats up to 500 guests (500 seated/standing) (www.venuereport.com ) and blends a laid-back Northern Beaches vibe with modern tropical design touches. Recent renovations (2024) added Balinese-inspired décor – think carved copper reliefs and bamboo accents – alongside surf-culture art like a mural of surfing legend Simon Anderson (monavalenews.com.au ) (totalvenue.com.au ). In its current form, The Mona offers multiple bars, dining areas and an outdoor beer garden ringed by palm trees (www.venuereport.com ).
Originally opened in the 1960s as the Mona Vale Rex Hotel (and rebranded Mona Vale Hotel in the 1980s), the pub was famously revived as “Park House” in the 2010s and has long been a community cornerstone. After a $12M makeover, it relaunched as The Mona Vale Hotel in October 2024 under local owner Ben Hanson (nephew of Australia’s Arthur Laundy) (monavalenews.com.au ) (themona.com.au ). For decades it has hosted everything from casual surf meet-ups to big nights out – so much so that locals say the pub is “pretty much the epicentre of the Northern Beaches community” (www.venuereport.com ). This family-friendly venue now includes a breakfast bakery, courtyard dining, a beer garden with live-music deck, and a state-of-the-art kids’ playground, giving it a unique island-meets-aussie feel.
Events and Programming
The Mona hosts a full calendar of events year-round. On weekends and evenings you’ll find live rock, blues and indie bands, DJs spinning dance tunes, and special theme nights. For example, its Saturday Night Sessions have featured touring acts and local favorites like The Radiators (a Sydney rock band) and The Beautiful Girls (Australian alt-reggae) (themona.com.au ) (themona.com.au ). Ticket prices are generally modest – local gigs may be free or $0–$10, while bigger name concerts often run about $15–$30 (for instance, a Radiators show was listed at $20.40 (themona.com.au )). Outside of concerts, the venue runs trivia and themed quiz nights, free pool competitions and kids’ events. A signature annual family event is the “Battle of the Wieners” dachshund race (held during spring), and major sports broadcasts (like the televised NRL Grand Final) are screened on big outdoor TVs (themona.com.au ) (monavalenews.com.au ). Weekday programming includes free pool nights and regular trivia that draw locals. In short, The Mona Vale Hotel offers everything from Beachside BBQ nights and kids’ craft mornings to high-energy concerts and dancing, with something happening almost every night/weekend (themona.com.au ) (themona.com.au ).
Tickets and Booking
For ticketed events, advance purchase is recommended. The venue typically announces tickets through its official channels – check The Mona’s website or social media for “What’s On” updates. Larger shows are pre-ticketed (often via an online box office link on the venue’s site) (themona.com.au ), and popular gigs can sell out, so book early. Modest fees (a few dollars) may apply, but many weekly events (trivia, pool, family activities) are free. At the door, some last-minute or smaller events may offer walk-up tickets if not sold out. There is also a physical box office at the pub during trading hours where you can inquire about upcoming shows. Prices range from free admission to roughly $15–$30 for headliner acts; for example, a recent band night was $20.40 (themona.com.au ). Enjoy the benefit of the hotel’s friendly ticketing, liquor license, and close-knit community vibe – but don’t procrastinate for big concerts or you might miss out!
Seating and Layout
The Mona Vale Hotel spans multiple indoor and outdoor areas. Its centerpiece is a sun-filled beer garden with palm trees (www.venuereport.com ), which often doubles as the main performance space. Indoors you’ll find the airy Plantation Bar (with high ceilings and wall-to-wall windows) (www.venuereport.com ), a cozy Laneway Bar, and a cocktail balcony upstairs. Seating is casual – a mix of bench-style tables and bar stools – rather than numbered theatre seats. For concerts, the beer garden is generally open standing-room; you can claim a spot near the (temporary) stage for the best view and sound. Sofas and high-top tables around the edge offer raised vantage points if the crowd gets tight. Note that tall pillars or loudspeakers can affect sightlines, so some guests prefer the open lawn. Overall there are no “bad seats” – the open-plan layout ensures good sightlines from most spots – but front-of-stage positions are best for an immersive experience. VIP or contributed seating is not advertised; all music shows are largely general admission. Acoustics are lively but well-managed by the venue’s sound system, and watching from the courtyard or indoors (overlooking the garden) gives a solid view at a bit more distance if you need to step back.
Getting There and Parking
The Mona Vale Hotel is easy to reach. It’s located at 2 Park Street, just off Barrenjoey Road in Mona Vale, about 200m from Mona Vale Village Park. By car, there is plentiful parking: a large free lot wraps around the back and sides of the venue, plus ample street parking on Park Street and surrounding streets. Parking is free of charge, though busy nights can fill up quickly, so carpooling or arriving early helps. If driving, Barrenjoey Road is the main artery from Mona Vale Beach to Warriewood. For public transport, the B-Line (B1) double-decker buses from Wynyard (City) to Mona Vale stop on Barrenjoey Road very close to the pub. Local routes (e.g. 196, 197, 199) also serve Mona Vale, with stops at nearby Pittwater Road and Barrenjoey Road – typically a 5–10 minute walk. Taxis or rideshares can drop you at the front entrance on Park Street; there’s a convenient pull-up lane outside the door. (If you’re coming from further afield, catch the train to Chatswood or Wynyard then transfer to the B-Line.) Overall public transit is straightforward, and the venue is fully accessible from stopping the B1 Mona Vale bus near the Village Park bus stops.)
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, you’ll enter under a wide portico into a lively bar and dining area. There’s usually a host or door person during events, but dress code is very casual – think shorts, surf tees or beachwear – with no formal attire required. For entry you may be asked for ID after 8pm; minors are allowed accompanied by adults. Security and responsible service of alcohol is standard (don’t bring outside liquor or large weapons). Once inside, you’ll find a series of bars and pubs-style counters serving an extensive drinks menu: local craft beers on tap, wine, cocktails and classic pub spirits. The main bar spills onto both the indoor lounges and the garden terrace. Food is available throughout the day: a full kitchen serves up elevated pub fare and pizza in the restaurant areas, while “Ben’s Bakery Café” (open from breakfast) offers coffee, pastries and sandwiches (themona.com.au ). A casual burger stand, salad bar and kids menu keep families fed, often with communal picnic tables. Notably, there’s a brand-new children’s play area: an outdoor playground with slides, swings and shade sails (www.engagenorthernbeaches.com.au ), plus an indoor kids’ corner equipped with Nintendo Switches and a chalk wall (themona.com.au ). You’ll also see large TVs and a big projector for sports, a digital jukebox system (remote-controlled playlists for different bars) (totalvenue.com.au ), and free Wi-Fi throughout the venue (www.venuereport.com ). Restrooms (including accessible/unisex toilets) are conveniently located off the main bars. Coat hooks or a small coat rack may be available, but there’s no staffed cloakroom – leave large bags in your car or bring just essentials. Overall, expect a warm, friendly pub atmosphere indoors, with plenty of natural light and island-themed decor, and an active bar vibe after dark.
Nearby Amenities
Mona Vale village has plenty worth exploring before or after your visit. Steps from the hotel entrance you'll find cafes, bakeries and take-away shops on Park Street and Palmerston Avenue for pre-show snacks or coffee. For sit-down dinners, the pub itself is a top choice – but nearby restaurants (many open through the evening) include local bistros and fish-&-chips shops in the Mona Vale shopping precinct. If you arrive early and want to enjoy the outdoors, Mona Vale Beach and the headland park are only a block away, ideal for afternoon strolls. For accommodation and nightlife, popular nearby hotels include Jonah’s at Whale Beach (just a 5-minute drive up Barrenjoey Road) and the Narrabeen Sands hotel near the beach. Late-night transport options include the B-Line night service (BN1) to Sydney CBD. If you need to kill time between events, Mona Vale Arcade (across from the pub) offers a convenience store and bottle shop open late. In short, The Mona’s central location means you can easily pair your visit with dining or entertainment in Mona Vale village, or relax at the beach before heading back.
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets The Mona Vale apart is its unique blend of beachside hospitality, surf culture, and family focus. Unlike a city rock club, this hotel lives up to its Northern Beaches roots: expect tropical decor, laid-back staff and even surf show posters. Architecturally it was reopened with careful design touches – woven bamboo screens, lantern lights and Balinese art – that create a warm “tropical resort” vibe (totalvenue.com.au ) (www.venuereport.com ). The venue has also seen some legendary local moments: from wild New Year’s Eve beach parties to charity fundraisers (the pub often hosts community events). Since 1966 it’s been known for blending a sunny beer-garden day ambience with livelier entertainment at night (totalvenue.com.au ). Musically, it’s popular with both performers and audiences – bands love playing here for the engaged crowd, and gig-goers love the open layout and full bar service. Community traditions are big: the pub’s annual Oktoberfest, Battle of the Wieners dachshund races, or watching rugby league games together on the big screens reflect its local charm. Finally, the recent renovation honors family legacy (Ben’s Bakery is a tribute to the owner’s dad (monavalenews.com.au )) and surf history (the Simon Anderson mural) while upgrading facilities for all ages. This mix of authentic beach culture, live entertainment and a genuine “everyone’s welcome” atmosphere makes Mona Vale Hotel a standout on the Northern Beaches. (www.venuereport.com ) (monavalenews.com.au )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-friendly with ramps at the entrance, wide paths and accessible toilets (www.venuereport.com ). High chairs and family restrooms are available for parents. What to bring: Always carry photo ID if you plan to drink. Dress casually – board shorts and a t-shirt are fine. (If rain is forecast, note that most entertainment is under cover or in the pub, but some outdoor areas are exposed.) Planning your visit: On a weekend, expect crowds by 5pm; for gigs, doors often open early evening. Arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to grab a good spot. Weeknights are usually quieter, and some bars may close by midnight (the main pub stays open much later, often until 3am on weekends (www.engagenorthernbeaches.com.au )). Age policy: All ages are welcome – it’s very kid-friendly thanks to the play areas and kids’ menu. (However, as a licensed venue, children must be supervised by an adult and are not permitted in barred-off late-night dance areas.) Food and drink: The on-site menu covers everything from brekky pastries to pub classics. Do try their lunch deals or the wood-fired pizzas. Cash and cards are accepted; an ATM is available on-site if you need it. Avoid: Large backpacks or glass jugs (for safety), and high heels if standing on lawn/turf. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor zones. Insider tip: Monday trivia and Pool nights are great free entertainment. And if you really want the local feel, try to catch an annual event like the Oktoberfest bash or the Sunday afternoon live acoustic sessions. Overall, come prepared to relax – The Mona treats you to good food, surf tunes and seaside community hospitality, making it a relaxed yet memorable night out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Mona Vale Hotel?
The venue is quite spacious, accommodating roughly 500 guests (seated or standing) (www.venuereport.com ). It has multiple bars and open spaces, so even at full capacity the crowd is spread out between the indoor bar areas, restaurant seating and large beer garden.
Where can I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets for music or special events are usually available online via the hotel’s website or partner booking pages. Check The Mona Vale Hotel’s official What’s On page for announcements and links. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s best to book early. As a guide, big-name concerts run around $15–$30 (for instance, a recent Radiators show was listed at $20.40 (themona.com.au )). Smaller gigs, trivia nights and regular events are often free or carry only a small door fee. Sometimes you can also purchase tickets at the pub’s box office or ask staff over the phone.
Is there a seating chart or reserved seating?
No formal seating chart exists at Mona Vale Hotel. It’s a casual pub layout with tables and benches – seats are first-come. For gigs, most areas (especially the beer garden) are general admission, so get there early to snag a good vantage point near the stage if you want. However, they do have a few lounge spots and bar stools in the indoor areas for dining or smaller events. In short, there’s no assigned seating – feel free to move around to pair with friends or get a better view.
What dining options are available?
The Mona has extensive on-site food. There’s a full-service kitchen serving pub-style meals (burgers, salads, pizzas and “surf and turf” specials), along with daily lunch and dinner menus. A highlight is Ben’s Bakery Cafe (opens at 6am) which offers fresh pastries, sandwiches and coffee (themona.com.au ). The venue also runs casual eatery stalls (for example, a burger and fries bar) and offers a children’s menu for the little ones. You can order at the indoor bars or at counters open to the beer garden. The kitchen usually runs through the evening, although exact closing times vary by night – ask staff on arrival or check the booking info.
Is the venue wheelchair and kid accessible?
Yes. The Mona Vale Hotel is fully wheelchair-accessible (ramps at the entrance, accessible toilet facilities) (www.venuereport.com ). It’s also very kid-friendly: you’ll find a new outdoor playground for ages 2–12 (open daily) (www.engagenorthernbeaches.com.au ) and an indoor kids’ corner with games and consoles (themona.com.au ). Strollers can get around most areas. Noise levels are manageable even with children around, especially in the daytime. Children under 18 must be supervised by an adult, and standard RSA rules apply in drinking areas after dark.
Is there parking and how much does it cost?
Yes, there is plenty of parking. The hotel provides a large free car park around the building, plus additional street parking on Park Street and nearby side streets. Parking is free of charge, but it can get busy on event nights, so arrive early when possible. If the car park is full, there is usually metered street parking a short walk away. Rideshare drop-off at the Park Street entrance is very convenient and often a good option late at night.
Which public transport goes to Mona Vale Hotel?
The B-Line double-decker bus (B1) runs between Mona Vale and the Sydney CBD (Wynyard) and stops on Barrenjoey Road right outside the pub (transportnsw.info ). Local bus routes (e.g. 196, 197, 199) also serve Mona Vale town centre with stops about a 5–10 minute walk from Park Street. If you’re coming from the city or North Sydney, catch the B1 or a connecting local bus. There’s no train station nearby – the closest are Chatswood or Wynyard, with a connecting bus to Mona Vale. At night, the B-Line night service (BN1) also makes stops in Mona Vale. Once off the bus, it’s an easy 3–5 minute walk into the hotel.
Are children allowed, and what amenities are there for families?
Absolutely – the venue prides itself on being family-friendly. Families are welcome at all hours, and there’s no formal age restriction on entry (though adults must supervise minors). Children will love the new playground with slides and swings (www.engagenorthernbeaches.com.au ). Inside, the kids’ room has games and Nintendo consoles to keep youngsters entertained (themona.com.au ). The menu includes kid-sized meal options. High chairs and accessible restrooms make it comfortable for families. Just note that after 8pm the main bar area is for 18+ if it’s only a bar/drinks event, but the beer garden and bistro remain open to all ages.
Do they have WiFi and is it free?
Yes, The Mona Vale Hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi for guests throughout the venue (www.venuereport.com ). Just connect to the “The Mona” network on your device. This makes it easy to check show schedules, share your night out, or stay connected. (Speeds are generally good, as the pub attracts many patrons who expect modern amenities.)
What are the venue’s opening hours?
The Mona Vale Hotel is open daily. Generally it opens late morning (around 10 AM) and closes at 3 AM on most days on weekends (www.engagenorthernbeaches.com.au ). For example, Monday–Thursday it usually runs 10 AM–3 AM, Friday 10 AM–3 AM, Saturday from as early as 9 AM (for breakfast) through 3 AM, and Sunday closing around 10 PM. During special events or holidays, hours may be extended. You can always check the posted hours on their website or Facebook page, and it’s smart to verify any last-minute changes on busy nights with management before heading out.
Is smoking allowed indoors?
No, smoking is not permitted indoors – like all NSW pubs, The Mona Vale Hotel is smoke-free inside. There are designated smoking areas in the outdoor beer garden and surrounding patio decks. These areas are sheltered but open-air, so smokers can step out to enjoy a cigarette. Remember that if there’s a queue at the outdoor smokers’ area during big events, lines can form in the garden, so keep that in mind if you plan to smoke.
Are pet dogs allowed on the premises?
Generally, domestic pets (like dogs) are not allowed inside the licensed bar areas or restaurant due to health regulations. However, **service animals** (guide dogs, assistance dogs) are always permitted by law. The beer garden is partially open-air and sees many locals walking by with dogs, but bringing your dog to sit on the furniture is not allowed without prior permission. If you have a dog with you, it’s safest to leave them in the car or at home. Always check with staff if in doubt, as some large outdoor venues make exceptions for well-behaved dogs in certain areas.
Does Mona Vale Hotel serve breakfast?
Yes – thanks to Ben’s Bakery Café inside the venue, breakfast is available on weekends (and sometimes weekdays). Ben’s Bakery opens early (9 AM on weekends (themona.com.au )) offering pastries, coffee and breakfast dishes. While breakfast isn’t advertised daily, you can usually grab a coffee and pastry from the garden bar from 10 AM on weekdays. The main kitchen (pub menu) starts serving from late morning. Basically, early birds can get brunch at The Mona, and food is served continually through the day.
What is a famous event at Mona Vale Hotel?
One quirky highlight is the annual “Battle of the Wieners” – a dachshund racing event held on the lawn, which has become something of a local legend. Other popular happenings include Oktoberfest parties, live acoustic Sundays, and major sports finals on big screens (Mona Vale even held a Grand Final broadcast during its reopening weekend (monavalenews.com.au )). Additionally, the new mural of surfing hero Simon Anderson attracts attention, celebrating the region’s surf history (monavalenews.com.au ). But perhaps the simplest tradition is the pub’s status as the go-to place for weekend catch-ups – locals will tell you “everyone ends up at the Mona”!
