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Things to do in Manly include sun-soaked adventures, a chill beach atmosphere, and rejuvenating coastal hideaways. Situated at the northern end of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this fashionable beachside precinct boasts golden beaches and headland walks with stunning views. The top things to do in Manly range from riding waves on iconic Manly Beach and snorkeling over marine parks to paddling tranquil coves and trekking bushland trails. Manly offers more than a beach holiday; it’s a lifestyle holiday combining surf, tranquility, and nature’s beauty in one of Australia’s most scenic coastal resorts.
Top 10 Things To Do In Manly
Find the top things to do in Manly, from riding famous beaches and snorkeling in sea sanctuaries to coastal promenades and beach eating.
1. Scenic Ferry Ride From Circular Quay To Manly Wharf
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Your Manly experience starts even before you arrive at its sun-kissed beaches. The 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay is one of the most scenic public transport experiences in the world. As the ferry glides across Sydney Harbour, you’re treated to iconic views of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the city’s glittering skyline. Passing through the heads into open waters, the journey transitions from urban beauty to coastal serenity. Whatever ferry you take, be it regular or express, you’ll reach Manly feeling freshened up and invigorated.
Top Highlights: Scenic harbour views, al fresco dining, photo shots
Distance From Manly: 15 km
2. Unwind And Surf At The Iconic Manly Beach
Photo: Walkerssk / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Manly Beach is one of Australia’s most famous and crowded city beaches, measuring more than 1.5 kilometres of silky, golden sand and technicolor coastal dynamism. Sliced into three discrete chunks, which are the South Steyne for the swimmers, North Steyne for the recreational surfers, and Queenscliff for the professional wave riders, it is the perfect combination of both relaxation and adventure. Among the top things to do in Manly, spending a day at this beach is a must. Whether you choose to sunbathe, construct sandcastles with the children, or just jump straight in, Manly Beach is calling you to relax and indulge in the sea.
Top Highlights: Surfing, beach volleyball, swimming, patrolled by lifeguards
Distance From Manly: 0.8 km
3. Snorkel And Swim In Shelly Beach & Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
Photo: MarineParkLover / Wikimedia Commons
Shelly Beach, a 15-minute tranquil walk from Manly Beach, is an idyllic sheltered ocean cove perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and basking in a tranquil coastal atmosphere. If you’re looking for what to do in Manly, visiting Shelly Beach offers both relaxation and marine adventure. Located in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, the reserve abounds with aquatic life, ranging from rich reef fish, stingrays, and octopuses to the legendary blue groper. The calm, crystal-clear waters suit beginners and seasoned snorkelers equally well. The trail itself is a treasure, showcasing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Top Highlights: Sea life spotting, shallow clear water, sculpture walk
Distance From Manly: 2.4 km
4. Walk The Manly To Spit Bridge Coastal Track
Photo: Photoscenic / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk is Sydney’s most scenic bushwalk, providing a perfect combination of nature, history, and coastal views. The roughly 10-kilometre moderately difficult walk crosses sandstone cliffs, dense bushland, and secluded harbour beaches. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic gems like Clontarf Reserve, Castle Rock Beach, and Grotto Point Lighthouse, each offering unique photo opportunities and tranquil spots to pause and take in the surroundings. One of the trail’s highlights is the Aboriginal rock engravings at Grotto Point, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich Indigenous heritage.
Top Highlights: Harbour cliffs, Aboriginal engravings, secluded beaches
Distance From Manly: 3.7 km
5. Walk North Head Sanctuary And Lookouts
Photo: Danesk1 / Wikimedia Commons
Only a drive or cycle from Manly’s centre, North Head Sanctuary is a serene and historically significant oasis above the coast. The large headland is a blend of heritage areas, Indigenous significance, and natural environment, suitable for those looking for something beyond the view. Formerly a military base and quarantine station, the reserve is speckled with decaying fortifications, secret tunnels, and information signs that uncover its intriguing history. Among the top things to see in Manly, visiting North Head Lookout rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, the Pacific Ocean, and even the city skyline, all the more enchanting at sunset.
Top Highlights: WWII tunnels, panoramic lookouts, nature trails
Distance From Manly: 3.5 km
6. Kayak Or Stand-Up Paddleboard At Manly Cove
Photo: eMiL rAjAn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For a relaxing yet action-packed way of experiencing Manly, head to Manly Cove and give kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) over the shimmering waters of North Harbour a go. With its serene, protected environment and beautiful natural environment, it’s a perfect destination for paddlers of any level. Manly Kayak Centre hires and takes you on guided tours to venture into secluded spots such as Collins Flat Beach, Store Beach, and Reef Beach, all only water-accessible and usually tranquil, deserted. Paddle by sandstone cliffs, wood-covered headlands, and the occasional play-dolphin or inquisitive seal.
Top Highlights: Paddle to hidden beaches, picnic spots, and animal sightings
Distance From Manly: 0.4 km
7. Uncover Art And History At Manly Art Gallery And Museum
Photo: Anya Tamir / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Housed just a short few minutes from the wharf ferry, the Manly Art Gallery & Museum (MAGAM) is a hidden gem that gives the local population a boost of culture and creativity amidst Manly’s beachside beauty. Opened in 1930, it’s one of New South Wales’ earliest regional galleries and contains a wide collection of contemporary Australian painting, ceramics, and photography, as well as lively historical displays celebrating Manly’s great surf and beach heritage. With constantly changing exhibitions from artists across the region and Australia, there’s always something new to see. There’s no cost to enter, and the serene atmosphere provides a perfect retreat from the busy promenade.
Top Highlights: Beach photography, Australian ceramics, surfing heritage
Distance From Manly: 0.7 km
8. Bicycle Along Beaches And Headlands
Photo: sabinevanerp / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Manly’s beachy environment is most appreciated on two wheels, and with its flat terrain and well-signposted paths, cycling is one of the most pleasant means of touring the locality. You can ride with ease if you’re a regular cyclist or just having a leisurely ride because Manly Bike Tours & Hire provides well-conditioned bikes, helmets, and trail guide maps to get you underway. Favorites are the ride up the scenic route to North Head with its panoramic view and heritage points, or the flat, family-friendly path through Lagoon Reserve and along the beachfront to Queenscliff Beach. You’ll pass beautiful bays, bustling cafés, and quiet picnic spots, all while soaking up the fresh sea air.
Top Highlights: Beach stops, whale-spotting locations, nature stops
Distance From Manly: 1.6 km (Lagoon Reserve)
9. Dine At Waterside Restaurants And Historic Taverns
Photo: Mathew Schwartz / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Manly’s dining scene is a sensory feast, from elegant waterfront restaurants to snug pubs and quirky secret bars. With the ocean in sight, dinners are almost good enough for the fine china. For a memorable meal, dine at Hugo’s Manly, right on the wharf itself, famous for wood-fired pizzas, seafood delights, and specialty cocktails. Walk down to The Boathouse at Shelly Beach for blustery brunches with Aussie classics devoured in front of dramatic coastline views. For craft beer lovers, the legendary 4 Pines Brewpub features house-brewed beers, a casual atmosphere, and wholesome pub fare just off the beach.
Top Highlights: Ocean views, seafood straight from the ocean, craft beers
Distance From Manly: 0.35 km
10. Catch Fairy Penguins At Manly Wharf
Photo: xiSerge / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
In July to February, just after the sun goes down, Manly Wharf is a naturalist’s haven as Little Penguins, or Fairy Penguins, emerge from the water to their rocky crevices and boardwalk burrows. These little penguins are the sole breeding mainland colony of Australia, and hence the experience is really a unique and special one in this urban beach environment. To watch them waddle onto the shore at sunset is cosy and delightful. There are usually volunteers from conservation organizations present to offer information regarding penguin behavior as well as to ensure their welfare.
Top Highlights: Guided learning, wild penguin sighting
Distance From Manly: 0.29 km
Manly is a charming beachside retreat blending coastal charm, outdoor sports, and relaxed living, just a ferry ride from Sydney. Top things to do in Manly include exploring scenic coastal trails, spotting wildlife, or soaking up the sun. Perfect for day trips or holidays, Manly offers the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Don’t miss this vibrant beach escape—plan your unforgettable trip with TripXL today!
Cover Photo: cat mastro / Unsplash
