Manly Beach
Manly Beach welcomes a slower pace and a more local escape in contrast the bustling Bondi Beach. During your stay, spend hours on end watching surfers glide along waves, enjoy the sunset at one of the beachside cafes, or stop and set up a picnic along the beach.
The best way to reach Manly is by ferry from Circular Quay. The journey provides a beautiful perspective of some of Sydney’s most iconic sites and best assets along the water. The trip is about 30 minutes in total, and the ferry leaves every half hour from Circular Quay. Otherwise, if you're short of time opt for the fast ferry, which only takes 17 minutes.
While of course, when people think of Sydney, the famous Bondi Beach always has gets its claim to fame. However, locals love Manly Beach for its quieter and more pristine beaches. Manly Beach is home to soft sand, and a stunning esplanade, perfect for all types of travellers.
On arrival into Manly Wharf, you'll pass by The Corso, a shopping centre and boulevard taking you to Manly Beach. The Corso acts as a starting point on your visit to Manly, with cafes, bars, gift stores, and supermarkets pouring out of the strip. This pedestrian-only walkway and considered to be the main street of Manly; featuring beautiful fountains, palm trees and sculptures all dotted along the path. And if you forgot to pack your beach wear, you can grab whatever you need on the walk in to the beach. Continue your walk down The Corso, and it will eventually lead you to the glistening waters of Manly Beach. The expansive three-kilometre coastline and rhythmic waves lay ahead to welcome you and with restaurants and bars surrounding, you can spend your day interchanging from beachside to bar. In true Australian style, roll out your towel and relax on the sand, or if you prefer a chair and umbrella, you can rent one at the beach. The beach has a designated year-round patrolled area with lifeguards on duty, making it great for swimming.
If you're searching for waves, start at Queenscliff headland, creating perfect swell from the submerged reef offshore. Manly Beach and Freshwater Beach are part of the National Surfing Reserves and bring visitors from all over the world to experience the world-class waves. After you've experienced the sparkling waves at Manly Beach it's time to take the Cabbage Tree Bay Eco-Sculpture Walk, which is just a short 15-minute walk stemming from the surf club in the southern end of Manly. The walk will take you to Shelly Beach and is a scenic way to experience the coastline. Pass by eleven different sculptures showcasing the wildlife and history of the area and be sure to stop at the Fairy Bower baths which are made by stones lining the edge create a calm sea water pool.
A day trip to Manly is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney city. Experience the scenic ferry ride in, pristine water and quieter pace that Manly Beach has to offer.