Manly Beach — Attraction in Sydney

I have lived in Manly for many years. Following are a few tips from a local to make the most of your stay.

(1) Manly Beach, also known as South Steyne is usually safe, but swim between the red and yellow flags only. Good for surfing. Plenty of food and drink options available for all budgets. Try Bluewater Cafe for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

(2) Shelly Beach is one of only two beaches in NSW facing west. There are no waves and is safe for kids, but it is not patrolled. Try The Boathouse Cafe.

(3) Fairy Bower located on the path between Shelly Beach and Manly Beach. Good for snorkelling, diving and people gazing. No sand, sit on the rocks and enjoy this amazing Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Reserve. SUPS available. Try the Bower Cafe. Great for snorkelling and diving.

(4) North Steyne - between Queenscliff and Manly and good for surfing. You can also learn to surf here with Manly Surf School. Palenty of food and drinks nearby. Try Kazzi’s Greek restaurant.

(5) Queenscliff Beach and nearby dog friendly Queenscliff Lagoon. The beach is good for surfing. Plenty of food and drinks nearby. Try The Salty Rooster.

(6) Freshwater Beach over the headland from Queenscliff is a beautiful beach - grab a coffee and lunch at Pilu. Good for surfing.

Harbour Beaches are not patrolled. (1) Little Manly also has an ocean pool and Ripples Cafe. A great beach for kids.

(2) Manly Cove is safe for kids. Hire SUPS. Plenty of food and drink options.

(3) Little Collins Beach is a bit of a walk and very secluded. Take your own food and drink. There is also a small carpark.

Snorkelling and diving - right at the front door of The Bower Cafe in Cabbage Bay Marine Reserve. It’s best to go in the mornings on a sunny day Diving lessons are run by Manly Dive Centre in Belgrave St, and usually take off from Shelly Beach.

There are ocean pools at Fairy Bower (small), Queenscliff, Little Manly and Freshwater.

Coffee. The locals tend to go to Three Beans on the corner of Darley Rd and The Corso. The food and coffee is also very good at The Bower, and the view is sensational. The coffee at The Boathouse Shelly Beach is also good.

Walks (1) From Queenscliff to Shelly Beach is a very easy walk with breathtaking views. (2) Take a walk along the ocean from South Steyne (south end of Manly) to Shelly Beach. To me, arguably the best short walk in the world. (3) From Shelly Beach go up to the headland where the car park is and view the Pacific Ocean. From there you can take a 10 minute walk to your north, around the headland on a good path, safe for kids. (4) Alternatively for a more serious hike go south from the car park and through North Head National Park. There’s a cafe with a magnificent harbour view at the top - The Bella Vista. Walk to the scenic lookouts, all the way to the end. This is also a safe walk for kids. Wear walking shoes.

Gyms - The Manly Beach Gym in Raglan St is clean and usually not too busy.

Manly Library provides printing facilities and JP services

Accomodation available to suit all budgets, from backpackers to 5-star and everything in between. There is also Airbnb and Home Exchange options. Try Manly Backpackers or Boardriders Backpackers for entry level, Manly Pacific and The Sebel are more upmarket.

Public Transport Ferries and buses only, plus of course taxis and Uber. Make sure you get an Opal Card for use on all public transport. In Manly the Opal Card can be used on all ferries - public and private as well as trains, buses and the metro. The cost to use either ferry to take the 20 minute ride to the city is the same. It’s a fabulous ride past the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, Garden Island, The Heads and Balmoral in the distance.

For public transport schedules I recommend the TripView app

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Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Sydney, Australia, lies the captivating Manly Beach, a haven for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its pristine shores, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere, Manly Beach offers an unparalleled escape into serenity and adventure. In this 888-word review, I invite you to embark on a journey through the wonders of Manly Beach and discover why it stands as a beacon of beauty and tranquility.

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One of the most enchanting aspects of Manly Beach is its pristine natural beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic cliffs, the beach is a testament to the unspoiled splendor of the Australian coastline. As you stroll along the shore, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged landscape that frames it. The gentle breeze carries the scent of saltwater and eucalyptus, creating a sensory symphony that delights the senses.

For those seeking adventure, Manly Beach offers a wealth of opportunities to explore the wonders of the sea. Whether you're snorkeling amidst colorful coral reefs, kayaking along the tranquil waters, or diving into the depths of the ocean, there's no shortage of excitement to be found. The vibrant marine life teems beneath the surface, offering glimpses of tropical fish, playful dolphins, and majestic sea turtles. With its clear waters and diverse ecosystem, Manly Beach is a paradise for underwater adventurers of all levels.

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One of the highlights of any visit to Manly Beach is the opportunity to witness its stunning sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting hues of pink, orange, and gold across the sky, time seems to stand still. Couples stroll hand in hand along the shore, families gather to watch the spectacle unfold, and surfers pause to take in the beauty of nature's masterpiece. It's a moment of pure magic that reminds us of the simple joys of life and the beauty that surrounds us.

In addition to its natural beauty and sense of community, Manly Beach offers a wealth of amenities and activities to ensure a memorable experience for all who visit. Whether you're indulging in a gourmet meal at one of the beachfront restaurants, catching a live music performance at a local venue, or simply relaxing with a massage on the sand, there's no shortage of ways to unwind and rejuvenate your spirit. With its laid-back vibe and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation, Manly Beach is truly a paradise found.

In conclusion, Manly Beach is a destination like no other, where natural beauty, adventure, and community come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking excitement on the waves, tranquility on the shore, or simply a moment of peace amidst the chaos of daily life, Manly Beach offers it all and more. So pack your sunscreen, grab your surfboard, and embark on an adventure to Manly Beach – where...

With no international tourists, Manly Beach is heaven for us locals (no offence guys). The sand is white, the water turquoise and warm, and the cafes are plentiful.

There are two beaches in Manly. One by the wharf and one at the end of the concourse. I recommend the main beach not the wharf beach 🏖️.

Also avoid the restaurants along the foreshore. Often overpriced and not great quality. There are many good and healthy options along the Concourse. If you ask, anyone will direct you.

You can also take a short walk to another cove beach south from the main beach and explore the beautiful cliffs. Two cafes along the way and a funky gift shop.

There is a dog 🐕 beach on the Northern side across the road and a lovely park you can explore that takes you to Pittwater road. There's a cafe there too.

If you're into beach swimming, there is a swim every Sunday morning that you can do. It's really popular and many people do it.

Easy 2hr free parking near the Manly tennis courts. Be sure you stick to the 2 hours. Fines are heavy.

Have fun!

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