tourist shop manly

Manly Visitor Information Centre

Live like a local, explore like a tourist with inside information on all things Manly at the Manly Visitor Information Centre, a ‘one-stop shop’ for visitors, locals and travellers for Manly and the surrounding areas. We are easy to find, located at the Wharf Forecourt, on the left-hand side as you exit the ferry terminal.

The staff live locally and so are able to help you with tips on where to go and what to do whilst you are in Manly, as well as their favourite local haunts.  Pick up a free map of the area and find out which restaurants and cafes are offering special food deals or Happy Hour deals. We can also tell you about special events or what’s on in the area from markets to live music gigs .  If you are planning your trip from home, make sure you check out our hand-picked tips and inspirations, as well as our how to get here guide .

We stock a varied selection of easy-to-pack souvenirs , locally made, to take home with you.

Services that Manly Visitor Information Centre offer:

• tourist information
• accommodation information
• History & Heritage Walking Tour

Pop in and say Hello and let the crew do all the work for you!  To keep updated with all the happenings around Manly, follow us on Instagram and Facebook .

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Manly Visitor Information Centre

Live like a local, explore like a tourist with inside information on all things Manly at the Booking and Information Centre, a 'one stop shop'.

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East Esplanade, Manly Wharf Forecourt, Manly NSW 2095

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This website contains information about products and services supplied by third parties and links to other websites. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided as a general reference source only. All information on this website and links to other websites are provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, fitness for purpose or of the results obtained from using this information. The information on this website and the links to other websites do not constitute or imply any endorsement or approval by the State of New South Wales of the information or the material at those websites, or any associated organisation, product or service. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided on the understanding that the State of New South Wales is not providing professional advice on a particular matter.

Please see https://www.nsw.gov.au/disclaimer for more information.

Discover Wynnum Manly

Charming bayside villages, craft and fresh produce markets, art galleries, quality dining and boutiques, and of course the picturesque views out to the islands. Visit the Wynnum Manly Tourism and Visitor Information Centre, situated on the stunning William Gunn Jetty and in close proximity of the vibrant Manly Harbour Village.

The Centre’s team of friendly Ambassadors can provide information on what to do locally, book accommodation and Island tours, and provide details of upcoming events. A gift shop full of homewares, sea life glassware, local goods, art, maps, books on the area, and island travel essentials like hats are also available.

BOOK Activities

Standup paddle board, yacht, kite-surf, windsurf, boat, fish, hire a bike, from adventure to relaxation, Wynnum Manly and surrounding islands is a breath of fresh air. Join tours, hire a bike or bring your own and discover Brisbane’s scenic bayside.

ST HELENA ISLAND

St Helena Island, a beautiful national park with the main attraction focused around the historical prison establishment.

Duration: 4 hours

Departs: William Gunn Jetty, Manly QLD

Tickets: $84 Adult / $45 Child (includes light lunch)

PEEL ISLAND

Peel Island is situated in Moreton Bay and only accessible by watercraft, and what better way to discover the beautiful Horseshoe Bay than by sailing on a luxury catamaran.

Departs: Raby Bay Harbour, Cleveland QLD

Tickets: $95 Adult / $69 Child (includes lunch)

MORETON ISLAND

Escape to Paradise with a scenic cruise to crystal clear waters of Moreton island. Tours range from Day cruises to Dolphin feeding packages.

WHALE WATCHING

FROM JUNE: Join a cruise to sight whales with expert guides.

CONTACT THE INFO CENTRE

16 iconic things to do in Manly

Jessica Noelle

20 March 2024

If you’re after the quintessential Sydney coastal experience, Manly is the place to be.

Manly’s golden sands, secret beaches and excellent surfing conditions make it irresistible to locals and international visitors alike. With a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, this world-renowned destination has got something for everyone. Food enthusiasts are drawn to a culinary scene that’s as diverse and captivating as the coastal views. Prefer the outdoors? There’s a wealth of options for those who love coastal walks, water activities and people-watching by the water.  It’s time to drift along with the sea breeze, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and keep reading to discover what to see and do while soaking up this vibrant, lively place.

1. Catch the Manly ferry

The best way to begin an adventure to Manly is to catch the iconic ferry from Circular Quay. On the journey, you’ll see stunning views of Sydney Harbour, an expansive panorama of the Sydney skyline, snippets of maritime history and secret hidden beaches. Catching the ferry is considered an iconic Sydney attraction.

Hop on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Discover Q Station

The heritage-listed Q Station , formerly known as the Quarantine Station, is regularly considered one of the best things to do in Sydney . The unique site, originally picked for its isolation, first opened as a quarantine facility for incoming ships to prevent the spread of contagious diseases, particularly with the cholera pandemic in mid-1800s Europe.

Q Station offers luxe accommodation on the shores of Sydney Harbour in Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

Now part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, Q Station offers a wealth of things for visitors to do. There is a range of tours to join: history tours, after-dark ghost tours, and wildlife tours. There are multiple dining options on-site, from casual snacks at the Wharf Cafe and Bar to fine dining at the Boilerhouse Kitchen and Bar.

Get spooked after dark on a Q Station ghost tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Bike ride through Manly

Manly offers an extensive range of bike tracks and cycleways that will suit both beginners to more experienced cyclists, and these let you take in Manly’s beautiful coastal vistas and natural scenery.

Start your day right by cycling along Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

You can elect to take yourself on self-guided tours by hiring from Manly Bikes , or you might prefer to join a guided tour, like with Bonza Bike Tours .

Explore the Northern Beaches with Bonza Bike Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

Popular places to cycle include North Head, and around Manly Dam, or another option is to begin at Manly and cycle along tracks that will take you further into the Northern Beaches.

Swap the beach for Manly Dam and explore more of the region by bike. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Surf at one of Manly’s beaches

Manly’s iconic beaches have earned themselves the reputation of being a surfing haven and the popular surfing culture means that out in the waves you’ll find a combination of confident surfers and those trying it out for the first time.

Hit the waves at Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Manly Surf School offers adult and kids group lessons right on Manly’s main beach. Surfing conditions can change quickly, so check local surf reports and be aware of surf safety before heading out.

Learn to surf with Manly Surf School. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Visit the Manly Art Gallery and Museum

Established in 1930, the Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M) is the oldest metropolitan-based regional gallery in NSW. The Design shop is worth popping into, and features the work of local Australian artists and designers.

Browse through diverse artworks at the Manly Art Gallery and Museum. (Image: Karen Watson)

Head here to see innovative exhibitions, Australian art and ceramics, and cultural programs. They also offer a range of workshops and drawing classes.

The gallery is a stone’s throw away from Manly Wharf. (Image: Leila Jeffreys)

MAG&M is within walking distance of Manly Wharf and, good news, general admission is free. Further along in Freshwater, you’ll find the Aboriginal Heritage Office, where you can visit the cultural and heritage displays at the museum and Keeping Place.

6. Kayak Manly waters

Manly’s stunning coastal scenery and accessible waterways make it an excellent destination for kayaking. Not only does it allow for fresh perspectives when looking up from the water at the cliffs and rocks on the shoreline, but there are plenty of opportunities for close encounters with marine wildlife.

Go kayaking along the rocky shoreline of Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are several places for kayak hire, including Manly Kayak Centre at Q station. From here, you have the flexibility to visit Store Beach – not only is Store Beach one of the best secret beaches to visit in Australia but it is only accessible by Kayak. As with all water sports, it’s important to check the weather and tidal conditions before setting out.

There are several spots by the water for kayak hire. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Shop at Manly’s weekend market

Manly markets are open every Saturday and Sunday and can be found just off the main beach in the heart of Manly, along the Corso and Sydney Road.

Shop your way around the Manly markets.

Wander through the market stalls with a coffee in hand and you’ll find a range of artisanal products from emerging artists and designers, vintage clothing, delicious food stalls and live music.

Browse through the stalls that feature artisanal products.

On Sundays, Manly Fresh Produce Market showcases the best fresh produce directly from farmers and food providores across the state.

Experience Manly’s weekend market scene.

8. Swim at the many beaches (and play beach volleyball)

One of the best parts about Sydney life is cooling off in the ocean on a long, hot day. Manly boasts not only the iconic Manly Beach – made up of three sections: Queenscliff, North Steyne and South Steyne – but also neighbouring coves and smaller beaches, each possessing a distinctive charm, that makes it a dream destination for taking a refreshing plunge.

Prioritise a dip in Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s quieter Little Manly Beach, family-friendly Manly Cove, picturesque Fairlight Beach, crystal-clear Quarantine Beach and hidden gem Store Beach. And don’t forget Collins Flat Beach. Splashed at all of Manly’s beaches? Check out our must-read guide to Sydney beaches to visit .

Bask in the sun at Quarantine Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Soak up Manly’s cafe scene

Manly’s dynamic and bustling cafe culture means that visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to coffee here. Not only that, there’s a cacophony of hearty breakfasts, flaky pastries, cosy and inviting spaces and a passion for sustainability to guarantee a good time. There are so many cafes to start the day at, which can be found tucked away down Manly alleyways or right by the water with gorgeous water views.

Rollers Bakehouse is one of the many cafe spots in Manly.

10. Attempt a bullseye at Kiss My Axe

The popularity of Indoor axe-throwing has been gaining momentum, so why not check out Kiss My Axe in Brookvale, just around the corner from Manly? With a licensed venue, expert staff on hand to help, and a high-energy vibe, the stars are aligned to have an axe-ceptional time. They have packages for large and small groups, a two for Tuesdays axe throwing special, and glow darts also on offer.

Try your luck at Kiss My Axe.

11. Tour Manly’s breweries

Touring the breweries in Manly and surrounds isn’t just a journey through hops and malt, it is a chance to celebrate the craftsmanship and art of brewing. Explore the breweries in the area and discover authenticity, innovation and excellence.

Start a brewery tour of Manly at 4 Pines BrewPub. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start off in Manly at the 4 Pines BrewPub , make your way up to Manly Vale and stop off at Quakers Hat Brewing . End your crawl in Brookvale and enjoy the tours, live music and great food at Bucketty’s Brewing Co. , Dad & Dave’s Brewing , and 7th Day Brewery .

If you lean towards spirits over beer, head over to Manly Spirits Co . You’ll discover Australian premium spirits created using artisanal methods in their distillery, like award-winning artisan gin, as well as vodka and whisky. Want more than a tour? They also offer a cocktail masterclass.

Sample award-winning artisan gins at Manly Spirits Co. (Image: Destination NSW)

12. Explore North Head Sanctuary

North Head, with its dramatic cliffs and network of walking tracks, is a must-visit destination in Manly. Located on the land of the Gayemagal people, you’ll find stunning natural beauty, sweeping panoramic views and snapshots of history with the remnants of the Second World War military fortifications.

There’s so much to do here – join one of the many Harbour Trust run tours to hear about the North Fort or the Third Quarantine Cemetery, learn more about the local flora and fauna by visiting the North Head Sanctuary Foundation’s visitor centre, and tie up your shoelaces as there’s over 10 kilometres of walking tracks to explore. To finish your visit, grab a bite at one of the two spots on site: Bella Vista Cafe or the Yorky Coffee Caravan.

Catch sweeping ocean views as you explore North Head. (Image: John Spencer/DCCEEW)

13. Manly Dam

Manly Dam, also known as Manly Warringah War Memorial Park, is a picturesque reservoir and popular recreational area, hemmed in by lush bushland. There is a network of walks and trails to choose from.

The Heritage-listed Manly Dam extends to a freshwater lake. (Image: Northern Beaches Council)

The most popular is the park circuit track, which is 7.3 kilometres long and takes around three hours to complete – along the way you’ll pass waterfalls, rockpools, and local wildlife. There are shorter walks available too, that vary in distance and difficulty. Gulgadya Muru Aboriginal Self-Guided Walk is a circuit track that educates about Aboriginal culture, and you can see rock engravings and sites with axe grinding grooves and other artefacts.

There’s a designated section in Manly Reservoir for kayaking and fishing. (Image: Northern Beaches Council)

Other activities include mountain biking, wild swimming in designated areas, fishing, wallaby spotting and waterskiing. While dogs are permitted on leash on the tracks in the bushland, they’re not allowed elsewhere in the bushland or at the picnic areas. Something that surprises people is that the outdoor picnic tables need to be booked and paid for in advance via the Northern Beaches Council website.

14. Walk along to Shelly Beach

Coastal gem Shelly Beach is part of Cabbage Tree Bay, an aquatic reserve that protects marine wildlife.

Discover abundant marine life in Cabbage Bay Aquatic Reserve. (Image: Destination NSW)

While there is street parking within walking distance of the shore, to really appreciate how captivating the area is, the best way to visit Shelly Beach is by leisurely walking the 15 minutes or so along the coastal one-kilometre path from the main Manly drag.

Shelly Beach is renowned for its beautiful cove. (Image: Destination NSW)

Snorkelling here is thought to be one of the best snorkelling spots in Sydney .

Spot captivating creatures beneath the waters like this Eastern Blue Groper. (Image: Destination NSW)

Along the walk you will pass the charming Fairy Bower rock pool, considered one of the best Sydney pools in the city .

Cool off at Fairy Bower Ocean Pool on the short walk from Manly Wharf to Shelly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. Spit to Manly walk

The popular Spit to Manly Walk is a breathtaking 10-kilometre scenic track that winds from the Spit Bridge towards North Head, alongside Sydney’s stunning harbour beaches.

Journey the scenic coastal route from Spit Bridge to Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

It forms part of the great Bondi to Manly walk , and it’s an opportunity to totally immerse yourself in nature, walking through bushland and by pristine waters. Pack your swimmers so you can jump into one of the many stunning beaches along the way, like Clontarf Reserve Beach, Castle Rock Beach, Reef Beach and Forty Baskets Beach.

Discover breathtaking views along this Manly walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

A track highlight is the Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site at Dobroyd Head, where you’re able to see rock engravings of a giant kangaroo, several small fish, boomerangs, and a whale – just make sure you stay on the boardwalk to protect the site.

It is important to note that it is a moderate track and challenging at times, and you’ll also need to come prepared with enough water as water stations are limited.

Navigate Spit Bridge to Manly via Clontarf Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

16. Enjoy an afternoon or evening drink at Manly’s bars

Manly has a lively drinking scene that perfectly complements its laid-back and beachy good-time vibes, with many venues offering outdoor seating options to soak in the sun and sound of crashing waves.

There’s a mix of classic pubs, trendy cocktail bars and industrial breweries, so you’ll always find a place for any occasion – to celebrate, catch up with friends, enjoy live music or simply relax and unwind.

Keep your eyes peeled not just for happy hour deals, but see if you can spot the hidden doorway to the underground speakeasy the Cumberland, one of 15 hidden bars in Sydney you need to discover . If drinking by the beach is something you love to do, consider checking out other fantastic beach bars around Australia .

Come by the Manly Wharf Hotel for a sundowner. (Image: Destination NSW)

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Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, where to shop like a local in and around manly.

Sure, Manly's main attraction may be the beach — but it's also home to some great bars and natural wine shops.

With its long stretch of sand, wetsuit-clad surfers and seagulls hovering at every corner, Manly feels like a permanent vacation. But while many day visitors get off the ferry and either head straight to the beach for a swim or The Corso for a spot of shopping, the locals know that it's the side streets and the tiny arcades that are harbouring all of the suburb's gems.

So whether you live on the northern beaches or just dip in from time to time, it's worth the extra time exploring the nooks and crannies of this beachside town. This list — created in partnership with American Express — will help you track down some of Manly's best independent shops. Make sure to pull on your walking shoes and come armed with your American Express Card. And don't worry if you forget your togs — you're in the right place to buy some new ones.

Rollers Bakehouse

Rule-breaking croissants

When it comes to baked goods, Rollers Bakehouse may stray from tradition, but its bold approach will convince even the most serious of pastry purists that it’s doing something right. A collab between James Sideris ( Butter Boy Bake ) and Bo Hinzack ( Showbox Coffee Brewers ), Rollers burst onto the scene in 2018 and quickly garnered a reputation for its left-of-centre flavour combos — think confit garlic, herb and parmesan; kaffir lime and maple meringue; and coconut, yuzu and strawberry. And Rollers doesn’t just experiment with fillings and toppings. It also tweaks the croissant dough itself — charcoal dough is used for its staple pain au chocolate, and matcha dough has made an appearance before, too.

Everything is rolled and baked in-house and flavours change regularly, so you’ll need to visit the Palm Springs-like shop in Rialto Lane to see what’s up for grabs each day. You can pair your pastry with a coffee (it uses beans from Sydney-based  Okay Coffee ) or a house-made soda.

Image: Kitti Gould.

Start creating a personalised itinerary — or add to an existing list. Save it, share it and take it with you on your next local adventure.

Winona Wine

Natural wine bottle-o

Winona Wine feels more like a cellar door than a traditional bottle-o. Run by a team of true Manly locals (two of whom run the super successful restaurants Chica Bonita and Sunset Sabi ), the shop has a boutique collection of funky wines from small producers, local craft beers, hard-to-find spirits and house-brewed kombucha. The staff are always ready to tell you about their latest finds, and the store runs regular tastings — so even if you don’t know much about wine, you soon will. Make sure to follow Winona on Instagram for updates.

Image: Kitti Gould. 

Manly Greenhouse

Rooftop cocktails

After an afternoon of shopping, it’ll be necessary to treat yourself to an afternoon cocktail on Manly’s newest rooftop. Overlooking the beach, this three-storey restaurant and bar is a team effort for style and comfort. Featuring a fit-out by Sydney-based designer Luchette Krelle, illustrations by Beci Orpin, and the eye-catching greenery covering every surface in collaboration with The Plant Room. Hot tip from the locals: Sunday sees the rooftop turn into a real beach bar with a DJ sets and $10 spritzes from 4–6pm.

Pocket Pizza Manly

Innovative twists on traditional Italian fare

Pocket Pizza may not be a haven of health, but that’s hardly the point because the food here is particularly good. Let us walk you through it: start with the crispy calamari, followed up the crunchy eggplant parmigiana topped with oozy burrata with a side of parmesan polenta chips, and maybe a bowl of the eatery’s signature tomato vodka fusilli. And that’s before you even get to the pizza — the simple margherita and mushroom options are perfection on a crust. Take a few friends and order everything, or order a few pies to take away and eat by the beach.

Peanut Butter Jelly - CLOSED

Fusion street food

The name Peanut Butter Jelly doesn’t really do this casual Manly restaurant justice. Yes, the namesake ingredients do make more than one appearance in the dessert menu — in the peanut butter jelly mousse and the PBJ sandwich — but you shouldn’t skip right to the sweet stuff. If you did, you’d be missing out on a stellar selection of share plates and mains inspired by myriad cuisines. To start, you can tuck in to pork belly bao, swordfish san choy bau and beef brisket tacos. Bigger meals include jerk beer can chicken and three next-level burgers: Dirty Double (two patties, double cheese, maple mayo and jalapeño bacon jam), Hot Bird (fried chicken, slaw, pickled jalapeños and smoked chipotle cream) and Vego (Dorito-crumbed cauliflower patty, mac ‘n’ cheese and romesco sauce). For drinks, expect PB&J-inspired cocktails, plus limited ranges of craft beer and wine.

Manly Farm Organic Grocer

Fresh organic produce

Based just a short walk from Manly Beach, Manly Farm Organic Grocer is a cosy store that proves that shopping for organic products extends well beyond fresh produce. Of course, the shop, run by Cathy Carney, does have a decent range of fresh fruit and veg. But it also has meat, seafood, frozen food, pantry staples, cleaning and personal products, too, all carefully selected with a conscious lens. Venture inside and you’ll find everything from organic herbal teas from Mindful Foods, locally harvested raw bush honey, cold-pressed juices, organic smoked fermented garlic and Crumpets by Merna.

Shop small to support the local stores that make Sydney so great. To learn about American Express, its Shop Small initiative and current Shop Small offer, which ends on August 31, visit here . Then, head this way to find more must-visit spots around the northern beaches.

Top image: Kitti Gould.

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Manly Visitor Information Centre

Explore Manly

Live like a local, explore like a tourist with inside information on all things Manly at the Manly Visitor Information Centre, a ‘one-stop shop’ for visitors, locals and travellers for Manly and the surrounding areas. We are easy to find, located at the Wharf Forecourt, on the left-hand side as you exit the ferry terminal.

The staff live locally and so they able to help you with tips on where to go and what to do whilst you are in Manly, as well as their favourite local haunts. Pick up a free map of the area and find out which restaurants and cafes are offering special food deals or Happy Hour deals. If you are planning your trip from home, make sure you check out our hand-picked tips and inspirations, as well as our how to get here guide.We stock a varied selection of easy-to-pack souvenirs, locally made, to take home with yo u.

Services that Manly Visitor Information Centre offer: • bookings • tourist information • souvenirs • accommodation information • brochures • free WiFi • maps • History & Heritage Walking Tour.

Manly Highlights

• Beautiful coastal walks and beaches.
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• There’s never a dull moment in Manly. From markets to music and concerts to comedy nights, boat races to pub runs. Manly events have you covered from sunrise to well after the sun goes down.
• 20-minute scenic ferry ride from Sydney CBD.
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The best things to do in Manly: a local's guide

Every day’s the weekend at this beachside suburb – but there’s more to the 2095 postcode than long stretches of golden sand

Not everything described as iconic deserves the title, but the double-ended ferries that shuttle between Circular Quay, past the heads and into Manly Cove are truly icons of the beachside suburb. The most visited Northern Beaches suburb is known for its surfing history, rows of Norfolk Island pine trees and busy thoroughfare of shops, cafés and sprawling pubs, but look beyond the well-trodden Corso and you’ll find tiny dive bars, indie boutiques and never-ending ways to make the most of the relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. Before Manly became a popular escape from Sydney’s CBD, it was home to the Gamaragal people, who were custodians of the land on the North Shore of Sydney Harbour.

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Eat   drink   coffee   things to do   shopping, what’s manly known for.

Just how many beaches are too manly for one suburb to have? Well, Manly has eight, which explains why water defines pretty much every aspect of life in this desirable suburb on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. People come here for surfing, sunshine, skateboarding, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, hiking and beach volleyball.

What's so good about Manly?

“You live in Manly for the lifestyle. It’s the kind of place where your mum always had beach towels in the boot so you could meet her for a swim after school during summer, and your weekends consisted of nippers in the morning followed by a pink iced doughnut from the local bakery” says Alice Donaldson, who grew up in Manly. Once she got older it was all about waterfront drinks at “the office” where locals gather on a Sunday to sink beers on the grassy verge overlooking the harbour.

How do I get to Manly?

What’s near manly.

The next beach up from Manly’s huge expanse of golden sand (so large it’s technically three beaches, Queenscliff, North Steyne and South Steyne) is Freshwater Beach, which is famous in surfing history as the very first location Duke Kahanamoku demonstrated surf board riding to Australian audiences in 1914. This beautiful beach is also home to famed Sardinian fine diner, Pilu at Freshwater. On its inland border is Brookvale, a semi-industrial suburb that has a growing reputation as a hub for craft breweries on the Northern Beaches.

Map of Manly

If you only do one thing in Manly

The ten-kilometre Spit to Manly trek is best approached from the Spit if you want to reward yourself with snacks at the finish line. The route takes you from sandy coves to beautiful vantage points of Sydney Harbour, up and down rocky staircases, and to at least four secret beaches. Castle Rock beach is postcard perfect, so bring your swimmers and a towel for this otherwise hard-to-reach beach in Middle Harbour. Also pack water and proper sun protection, as there are very few water fountains and limited shade.

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Find the best things to do in Manly

• Restaurants

It's common knowledge that Manly locals are reluctant to leave the 'insular peninsula’ on which they live. One day spent there – swimming in the clear blue waters, kayaking to nearby coves, strolling over to Shelly Beach and surfing the waves – and you’ll see why. But it’s not just the beautiful beaches that Manly has going for it. Over the last decade, the seaside suburb has welcomed excellent restaurants – from kitsch Italian joints to luxe Cantonese restaurants and fresh salad bars –  a boon for Manly locals and visitors. Catch the ferry over to check them out for yourself. Here’s our guide to the best places to eat in Manly. 

Hemingway’s (48 N Steyne) is the tiny Manly small bar offering the Northern Beaches a double dose of fun drinks and a whole lot of literature directly across from the famous golden sands of Manly Beach.

Donny’s Bar (7 Market Pl) is a bare-brick American-style loft bar where you can get a Bloody Caesar and a slider and pretend like you’re Stateside.

InSitu (1/18 Sydney Rd) is a retro-themed small bar and restaurant that also does bottomless Mimosas and tapas for brunch on weekends.

Manly’s bar scene gets a touch of glamour at the Cumberland (17-19 Central Ave) , an underground speakeasy hidden below an old-world delicatessen.

For craft beers brewed on site, make a beeline for the 4 Pines Manly Brew Pub (29/43-45 E Esplanade).

On a sunny evening in summer the seats out on the deck over the water at the  Manly Wharf Hotel (Manly Wharf, East Esplanade) are some of the most sought after real estate in the suburb.

The Hotel Steyne (75 The Corso) is a vast enterprise with different zones catering to any whim that may take you, be it cocktails, cider, Chinese food, pub classics, pizza, or a simple lager with the football on TV. 

Manly Wine (8/13 S Steyne) has more than a hundred bottles on the wine list, organised into helpful categories that suggest more about how the wine will actually taste than a technical classification.

What’s a beachside suburb without a nautically themed small bar like  the Hold (24 Sydney Rd)?

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Born and bred on the beaches, Barrel One is a northern coffee institution pedalling quality bagels, sangas and a house roasted bean so good it’ll make you want to order another, almost immediately. With locations now dotting across the whole city, the Manly edition ( 40 E Esplanade ) is one of the earliest OGs – and it shows. Not a fan of coffee? Go for the oat jaffa hot chocolate instead. 

Norma's Deli is a new and very welcome kid on the block. A gigantic Greek-style food emporium, you can get quality coffee, epic take-away sandwiches and a heap of groceries all in one fell swoop.

Skittle Lane   ( 81–83 Pittwater Road ) is kind of peak-Manly. White linen, airy interiors and seriously quality coffee (think house seasonal blends) reign supreme at this tiny coffee shop. Opening up onto an Assembly the Label store, this is northern beaches neutral living at its finest.

For bread, butter and bloody good coffee, there ain’t nothing better than Berkelo Manly . Fresh sourdough and actually really good gluten-free banana bread are excellent additions to any cup o’ joe.

In a laneway off the Corso you’ll find  Rollers Bakehouse (19 Rialto Ln) in a baby pink garage, baking croissants in every flavour imaginable and serving up their house coffee in white, black, filter or bottomless form.

Pair your coffee with a side of Scandinavian comfort food from  Fika Swedish Kitchen (5B Market Pl) , like a sugar-crusted, spiced cardamom bun.

The simple pleasures of good coffee and a Belgian waffles cannot be overstated at Barefoot Coffee Traders (18 Whistler St).

Get a colourful, tasty breakfast at  Market Lane Cafe (9-11/37-39 The Corso) that ranges from a superfood salad to masala scrambled egg or hot cakes, with Allpress coffee on the side. 

Things to do

Best Beaches in Manly

Above all else, Manly is a bloody good beach town. Fringed by countless secluded swimming spots, epic surf breaks and long stretches of golden sand, Manly is made for, and shaped by its proximity to the Pacific. For some incredible, and absolutely free things to do while you’re in Manly Town, you can’t go past the beach. After a pumping surf? Go to Queenscliff, North and South Steyne . Want to swim without any waves bothering you at all? You can’t go past the Hawaiian-like paradise of Shelly Beach or the secret seclusion of Collins Flat . Want to feel like a real life mermaid, no matter the time of day? Jump into the Fairy Bower pool and feel all your woes melt away. 

If you want to keep on beaching, do the classic Manly to Spit coastal walk. Rugged, with stunning ocean views, you’ll get to walk past ancient Indigenous rock carvings, wander through the bush, and then dip into pristine beaches along the way. Pro tip: If you want to end with snacks, start at the Spit, and end at Manly – otherwise, views will be reward enough.

Best Day Spas in Manly 

Manly is all about wellness – which calls for one thing, and one thing only: the humble day spa. Whether it’s a massage, facial or sauna you’re after, this town has you covered in spades. 

Hit up Akasha Integrative Health ( Unit 8/7 West Promenade ) for an affordable sauna, massage and ice-bath experience – it’s $149 for a 45 minute massage and 50 minute private sauna and ice bath session, which feels pretty good. They’ve got an oxygen chamber on-site too for all those who really like to tap the wellness button.

If you love a bit of new-age wellness to help you unwind you could book yourself a session at Rimba Sweet Infrared Sauna (212 Pittwater Rd), where infrared light heat warms your body to help you sweat out your toxins.

SahSin Massage Therapy ( 9 Whistler St ) have been massaging Manly’s residents for years. With a massive massage menu on tap, they’ve got all your aches and pains under control.

Aqua Vitae Day Spa is good for a solid (yet luxurious) facial. From detoxing skin treatments to anti-ageing rejuvenation numbers, this is a one-stop shop for your skin.

Best outdoor activities in Manly

Frolic with bandicoots and gaze out across the whole city from North Head Lookout . 

Manly Surf n Slide (West Esplanade and Commonwealth Pde) is an outdoor waterslide playground with heated water, so you can embrace some water play year round. 

If you’re seeking some serenity head to Manly Dam (112 King St ) to commune with nature over a picnic or a bush walk.

You can book a game of beach volleyball on the North Steyne segment of Manly beach where nets are set up for daily tournaments.

Dive Centre Manly runs Snorkel Safaris of three popular spots in the area, and they take visitors on underwater adventures every day (10 Belgrave St).

On both weekend days Sydney Road is home to the Manly Marketplace , an open air market selling knick knacks, snacks, local art, jewellery, candles, hats and grocery items. 

If you purchase a skateboard from Henrietta Skate (Shop 2, 49-53 North Steyne) they throw in a free lesson so you can get a handle on your board before letting loose on the lovely flat track that runs along the beach.

Add some adventure to your day with a four-hour paddle and hike organised by Manly Kayak Centre (Manly Wharf, East Esplanade) . Tours visit the historical, and possibly haunted, buildings at the old Quarantine Station.

Always wanted to hang ten? Book a group or private surfing lesson through Manly Surf School (North Steyne Surf Lifesaving Club), who will show you how to master the waves.

Hire a beach cruiser from Manly Bike Tours for $22 per hour and take a leisurely cycle along Cabbage Tree Bay cycle path. Each bike is fitted with a pocket bag for your essentials (phone, lock) and there’s a laminated map attached to the handlebars.

Best indoor activities in Manly

If you're headed indoors, make it for the Manly Art Gallery and Museum (West Esplanade) , which has an annual program of exhibitions that includes prominent local artists and major touring exhibitions. The museum is devoted to the history of Manly and has a marvellously kitsch collection of beach memorabilia.

Scare yourself silly at one of Australia’s most haunted sites.   Q Station   (1 N Head Scenic Dr)   runs nightly lantern-lit ghost tours for $65pp.

At  Desire Books and Records   (3/3 Whistler St)  you can sift through the $2 vinyl record bin on the steps of a secondhand bookstore that has branched out into preloved surf-rock. 

Fill your home bar, fridge and esky at Winona   (2/12-14 Pittwater Rd) , a beautiful wine boutique stocking the most delicious new-era natural wines, local spirits, craft beers and tasty snacks .

We all know fast fashion is a problem, so the next time your need a new outfit for a special event, why not visit  Department 24 (2/69 Pittwater Rd) , a designer garment hire studio.

Emporio Home and Flowers (185 Pittwater Rd) is pretty much all the nicest bits of life crammed into two shopfronts. There's the florist on one side, and on the other a deli café so you can snack and shop simultaneously.

If you’re trying to shop more mindfully, a visit to  Blaek Store (210 Pittwater Rd) will tick all the boxes thanks to their collection of sustainable, ethical & organic clothing and homewares.

You can shop first, then eat at  Ruby Lane Wholefoods (200 Pittwater Rd) , or do it the other way around at this café and organic grocer.

If you’ve done the lessons and have decided to commit to the salty life, gear up at  Dripping Wet Surf Co (2/93-95 N Steyne), where life-time surfers will guide you through board, wetsuit and accessory shopping. 

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Manly is one of those places that offers the best of both worlds, cosmopolitan buzz and a relaxed vibe. It's just a short yet incredibly scenic ferry ride from the CBD and boasts a vibrant coastal atmosphere, with its Norfolk Island pine-lined promenade, sprawling three-kilometre beach (so big, in fact, that it's patrolled by a total of three surf lifesaving clubs) and fantastic oceanfront eateries. 

On the beach

Manly Beach  is the main drawcard.  The world's first surfing contest was held at Manly in 1964, making it one of Australia's most famous beaches. Stretching out for three kilometres, it is usually less crowded than its Eastern Suburbs counterparts. A popular place to learn to surf, sign up for lessons with  Manly Surf School or Manly Surf Guide . The snorkelling at Shelly Beach is fantastic and the pretty Fairy Bower Pool is popular with families.

Manly Beach , Manly

Picnic tables on the tree-lined promenade are a perfect perch to eat your takeaway fish and chips. Shelly Beach in  Cabbage Tree Bay , an aquatic reserve, has barbecue facilities and it’s a great spot for fun  family activities  including stand-up paddleboarding. If you want to explore the waters with an expert, take a guided tour with  Ecotreasures .

Cabbage Tree Bay , Manly

Things to do

The Corso connects the harbourside wharf to the famous ocean beach. The pedestrian mall is dotted with surf shops, boutiques and classic pubs. On the weekends, explore the Manly Markets, which takes over Sydney Road, just off the Corso, with a variety of arts and crafts stalls.

Prefer to see Manly from the ground rather than via water? Hire a bicycle from  Manly Bike Tours and Hire  and discover hidden harbour coves and beaches, such as Little Manly Cove and  Collins Flat Beach . The 10km Spit Bridge to Manly Walk  rewards you with fantastic views across the harbour.

Manly to Spit Bridge , Manly

For a hit of history, explore ancient Aboriginal rock engravings at  Grotto Point  and if nature excites you, go on a whale-watching cruise from May to November with  Manly Ocean Adventures  or  Manly Whale Watching . Check out the vibrant  events calendar  for celebrations such as the Manly Jazz Festival which attracts thousands every September.

Manly Ocean Adventures , Manly

Eat & drink

You're spoilt for choice if you're looking for a waterside  eatery . Step off the ferry and grab a drink at Wharf Bar  or Hugo's . If you're looking for local brews, there's the 4 Pines Manly Brewpub  along the Esplanade or Nomad Brewing Co  and Manly Spirits Co Distillery in nearby Brookvale. For something a bit different, head to The Cumberland , a speakeasy-style underground bar serving a selection of over 250 whiskies.

Hugo's Manly , on Manly Wharf

It makes sense to have seafood by the sea and  Garfish Manly  is a firm local favourite. For sushi and Japanese fare head to Sake Restaurant and Bar or Sunset Sabi. The Manly Pavilion and The Pantry both enjoy incredible ocean views and something for everyone, while The Boathouse Shelly Beach does fantastic fish and chips.  

Manly Pavilion , Manly

Getting there & where to stay

Enjoy the 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay as it takes you across the harbour and out past the heads. Manly has accommodation  options to suit various budgets, including the allegedly-haunted  Q Station , a heritage-listed former quarantine station with magnificent harbour views (which also offers ghost and history tours ), and the recently refurbished  Sebel hotel.

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A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Manly

Beyond walking down the Corso to the beach, what other things there are to do in Manly? Well. lots in fact, so much that I live in Sydney and I still find things to do in Manly every time I am visiting. Read on for my insider’s guide to what to I love to see, eat, and do in Manly.

The Insider’s guide to Manly – What to do, see and eat

How to get to manly, everything you need to know about the manly ferry, what is manly beach famous for, the main attractions in manly, the beaches of manly, best things to do in manly, shopping in manly, where to eat in manly, where to drink in manly, where to sleep in manly.

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Most visitors have a trip to Manly on their list of things to do in Sydney , but once they get off the ferry, they do not know where to go. Some people don’t even realise that the beach at the wharf is not Manly Beach but the harbour beach known as Little Manly Cove to the east and West Esplanade Beach to the west. Both beaches are great for kids , but they are not the famous Manly Beach. Manly and Bondi go head to head for attention, and they are very different. Many locals feel Manly is more relaxed than Bondi – I agree – the traffic is better too.

The Norfolk Island palm trees that line the beach are a lot prettier than the car park fringing Bondi, I mean, I love Bondi too, but I could live without the cars!

When Captain Philip visited in 1788, shortly after arriving in Australia, he encountered some of the local aboriginal people on landing here.

The Cannalgal and Kayimai people were the custodians of Manly and the northern beaches.

This meeting prompted him to name the area after them. “Their confidence and manly behaviour made me give the name of Manly Cove to this place.”

You can reach Manly by road or by sea. The critical difference between the options is travel time. We think the ferry is THE option. I cannot think of a circumstance where I would drive to Manly from the city.

Did you know: It’s quicker to get from the city to Manly than it is to Bondi?

Ferry: 25-30 minutes from Circular Quay Bus: the journey often requires a change and takes 50 minutes from Wynyard Car/Uber: 30-minute trip in good traffic but can take a lot longer

Confusingly, there is more than one ferry service from the city to Manly. Both public and private ferries operate along the route, and both accept Opal or contactless payments.

Private ferries to Manly

Two private ferries operate between the city and Manly and both make the trip between Circular Quay and Manly wharf in 20 minutes.

Manly Fast Ferries runs services between Manly and Circular Quay

They also sell a 1 or 2 day hop on hop off cruise that includes other key tourist spots:

• Darling Harbour to Manly via Circular Quay and Taronga Zoo

Captain Cook Ferries offers two direct services to Manly:

• Manly to Barangaroo
• Manly to Watsons Bay – This one is my favourite time saver if you are trying to see a lot in one day!

You can use your Opal card to pay on either the Fast Ferry or Captain Cook, but these fares will not count towards your daily and weekly caps.

There is also the Captain Cook hop on hop off ferry and the Sydney Harbour Hopper which cost a little more but give you 1 or 2 days of sightseeing and make some stops that are not possible on the public ferry.

Public Manly Ferry

Public ferries service the F1 route from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf. The original Manly ferries the ‘Queenscliff’, ‘Narrabeen’, ‘Collaroy’ or ‘Freshwater’ ferries are named after beaches north of Manly.

There are newer Emerald Class ferries that travel this route but try to catch the one of the original services if you can. It’s a much more pleasant experience, particularly in rough weather.

The public Manly Ferry service is direct from Circular Quay to Manly, taking 30 minutes. The first ferry departs at 5.30am, and the last one leaves at 11pm.

Can you get a ferry from Darling Harbour to Manly? At the moment there is no direct service between these two stops. You will need to change at Circular Quay unless you buy a HOHO ticket. What is the difference between the private Manly ferry and the public Manly Ferry? The private ferry services are a little faster, but they cost a couple of dollars more and do not count towards your daily or weekly Opal caps.

Click here to discover more great Ferry rides from Circular Quay

Manly has several claims to fame; it was the birthplace of surfing in Australia, the first place to legalise all-day bathing in 1903 and one of the world’s first Surf Life Saving Clubs.

Manly Beach was the location for the first World Surfing Championships held her back in 1964.

Besides the gorgeous waterfront, there are a few other places in Manly worth exploring.

• Q Station – From the 1830s up to the mid-1980s, ships were quarantined here if they arrived in Sydney Harbour carrying any illness.
• North Head Sanctuary – walks, views, a war memorial and a graveyard
• Four Pines Brewery – the first smaller brewery in the area
• Manly Distillery – Try the local gin made with ocean botanicals
• Manly Art Gallery – A small collection with everything from ceramics to photography
• Manly Environment Centre – pop in to learn more about sustainability
• The Sea Nymphs’ sculpture at Fairy Bower Pool

Manly offers both ocean and harbour beaches. The three main sections of the beach are Queenscliff, North Steyne, and South Steyne.

A short walk around the southern headland brings you to the sheltered and beautiful Shelly Beach.

Shelly Beach is one of only two west-facing beaches on the east coast

There are also the harbour beaches you will see when you arrive at the wharf. A short walk to the west past the art gallery will take you to Fairlight and on to the secluded harbour beaches along the Manly to Spit walk.

Head to the end of East Manly Cove Beach to make your way to little Manly Beach and Collins Beach. These are both great options for anyone wanting a bit of seclusion midweek, although they get popular on summer weekends.

Want more beach fun? Jump on the 199 bus for the 75 minute trip to Palm Beach, along the way explore some great Northern Beaches gems.

There is plenty to do here, so we have broken this down into four areas:

• Free things
• Walks in Manly and nearby
• Activities and tours

Free things to do in Manly

There is no need to spend much money to have a good time in Manly. With walking and biking trails, plenty of parks and gardens and some excellent people watching.

• Head to the free BBQs at Shelly Beach and cook up a feast
• Take a walk to Freshwater Beach and look for the wormhole
• Go snorkelling at Cabbage Tree Bay
• Have a swim at Fairy Bower Pool

• Find some friends and hit the free volleyball courts
• Follow the Manly Heritage Plaques – a great way to learn the history of Manly
• Check out an exhibition at the Local Manly Gallery

Check out the path of Olympians that runs from the wharf to the museum. It celebrates residents who have represented Australia in Olympics.

The best walks in Manly

Whether you want a quick stretch of the legs or fancy putting your fitness to the test, one of these Manly walks is sure to suit. The first two are wheelchair and pram friendly, and both offer fantastic views.

• The first, and possibly the most popular, is the Shelly Beach walk. This short 1.5km stroll from The Corso around to Shelly Beach features eleven sculptures that make a fun scavenger hunt for kids. This flat walk only takes 15 minutes and is wheelchair friendly.

• The Fairfax Walk also known as the North Head Sanctuary Loop is an easy 800m circuit walk that is also wheelchair friendly. It’s a fabulous spot for some whale watching between July and October. Start at the North Scenic Drive carpark.

The three most popular longer coastal walks are:

• The Manly to Spit Bridge Walk follows the harbour from Manly Cove Beach to the Spit Bridge.
• North Head Sanctuary Walk – an 8km walk that starts at Shelly Beach and makes its way up to North Head. The views are hard to beat, but it’s also a brilliant choice for those with an interest in military history.
• The Manly Coastal Walk – The whole route is 50km, but you can stop anywhere you like with buses along the route heading back to either Manly or the city.

Check out more local walks at the Visitor’s Centre located right outside Manly Wharf on arrival for some local advice and free maps.

Get active in Manly

• Rent a bike – there are lots of bike tracks here – over 20kms worth. You can take an organised electric bike tour or rent a bike for a couple of hours.
• Rent a kayak and paddle to Store Beach
• Or do a 4 hour rental and explore further afield
• Go stand up paddle boarding at Shelly Beach
• Go snorkelling with a guide
• Rent a surfboard.
• Take a surfing lesson
• Give your drinking arm a workout on the Northern Exposure Brewery Tour
• Walk to Forty Baskets Beach

Check out one of the 15 rock pools along the northern beaches.

Find even more things to do in Sydney on our list of 75 things to do for free in Sydney

The strip of shops that line the Corso from the wharf to be beach offers a huge variety of goods. Everything from surfwear to fishing gear and high-end fashion to the latest bestsellers can be picked up on your way to the beach. There is a supermarket and a bottle shop that are handy for putting together an impromptu picnic. All up, there are 200 shops along the Corso and surrounding streets, so if you fancy some shopping or window shopping on your day out to Manly, you won’t be disappointed.

The Corso in Manly was named after Rome’s Via Del Corso

On weekends, they hold the market s in Market Place, which runs parallel to the Corso.

With over 120 cafes and restaurants to choose from, finding something to eat here is both super easy and super hard, depending on how you respond to all that choice! If I have too many places to choose from, I suffer from decision paralysis lol, so just in case any of you do, too, I have shortlisted ten options. These are my favourite Manly restaurant.

Our favourite spots for breakfast in Manly

• The Bower – I love this cafe overlooking Fairy Bower pool, a great spot for people-watching, excellent coffee and if you are there for breakfast, the coconut Bircher is a favourite.
• Ruby Lane – Our favourite breakfast spot for healthy options – off the main area but worth the walk. A good option when on the way back from the walk to Queenscliff.
• Rollers Bakehouse – Great place for gathering a breakfast picnic
• Bella Vista Cafe  – Perfect spot for breakfast after a hike around North Head

Our top choices for lunch in Manly

• The Pantry – The views don’t get much better, I prefer their lunch menu and don’t skip dessert, share a portion of Banoffee Pie.
• The Boathouse – Fish n chips, burgers and several salad options plus pavlova for dessert.
• Manly Wine – Oysters and sparkling wine, fish n chips and a good plant-based range of options. It’s hard to be disappointed here.
• Fika Kitchen – Serve an all-day Swedish style breakfast menu with a strong seafood focus and a delicious watermelon Chia pudding.
• Little Shop of Waffles -Sydney’s first bubble waffle cafe !

Our top picks for dinner in Manly

• Sunset Sabi – Izakaya style bar and dining, fun spot, not great for a quiet chat
• Queen Chow – Old school Cantonese food right on the wharf.
• Manly Wharf Hotel – Great water views and excellent specials – plus a quick run to the ferry home.

• North Steyne – Something for everyone with an old school pub on the outside and ground floor, funky new rooftop area above.
• Hemingway’s – If you like to drink surrounded by books and with an ocean view, this is your place.
• 4 Pines Brewing Company – This local brewing company is right opposite the wharf and has tasting paddles for the indecisive.
• Manly Wine – with ocean views and an impressive list of sparkling wines and champagnes, this is the perfect spot to rest your feet for a while.

Looking for the best Fish n chips in Manly? Head to Fishmongers , grab some takeaway and eat on the beach.

All the usual options with hotels, vacation properties and hostels on offer.

Only a 5-minute walk from the ferry wharf and directly opposite Manly Beach, the Sebel is a splendid choice. You are within walking distance to shops and cafes and only a few minutes from some of our favourites, Manly Wine, The Bower and The Boathouse. Family rooms are available.

Peppers Manly Beach Hotel

Peppers is directly opposite the southern end of Manly Beach. You are surrounded by dining options and just a short walk around to family friendly Shelly Beach.

We have stayed here and enjoyed both the location and the service. We had an ocean facing apartment and found it very hard to leave!

Location : 8-13 South Steyne, Manly Room types: studio and one-bedroom apartments can accommodate four people. Facilities:  2 swimming pools and a spa pool, a handy guest laundry

Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection

The Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection has recently undergone a $30m transformation and boy is it looking good. It sits opposite the ocean beach and offers 213 rooms, a mix of Coastal Suites, Sun Lounger one-bedroom apartments, hotel rooms and for special occasions the Infinity Residence, a 177 sqm apartment which may well be the best beach front hotel residence in Sydney.

The property has three restaurants onsite, 55 North, Bistro Manly and Tokyo Joe. There is also a rooftop bar and pool. There is a strong focus on health and wellness with surfing lessons, kayaking, boot camps, beach yoga, facials, massages and cryotherapy all available to guests.

Location : 55 North Steyne Road, Manly, Room types: Studio and one and two-bedroom apartments 1-4 guests. Facilities : Rooftop swimming pool

Quest Manly at the Wharf

Unlike the two above, Quest Manly faces the harbour beaches and the wharf. The apartments here are bright and sunny with great harbour views.

A great choice if you are planning on self-catering as there is a supermarket across the road

Location : 54a West Esplanade, Manly Room types: studio and one and two-bedroom apartments with full-size kitchen and laundry Facilities: Small gym, guest laundry, spacious living area Tips:  Request an upper floor for less traffic noise.

Want to decide yourself if Manly to Bondi is Sydney’s best beach? Check out our Bondi Guide before your visit.

We also recommend this guide for visiting beaches in Sydney by public transport if you want to explore further.

Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

10 thoughts on “A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Manly”

Oh I would love to visit the markets, sounds like a great idea 🙂

Lovely! I did the Shelley beach, but I wish I’d had time to do one of the bigger walks.

We did the coastal walk to Manly and ate the most delicious ice cream! We didn’t really get to explore though, time was short. I’d love to return and now we have the perfect guide! Thank you so much for this, really informative.

Very timely as I head to Sydney next week. I have been to Manly several times but never really “got” it. I love the idea of the walks though so will be rereading beforehand! And you can’t beat the views from the ferry!

I love the Manly ferry, such a Sydney institution but it’s true once there I usually just go the beach and not much more so it’s good to get other ideas.

If you can do one of the walks you won’t be disappointed.

Thank Nicky – I hope you get to put it to use soon.

Wow, there are so many things to do there! I’d love to visit someday. Thanks for the information!

Heading there right now. Heading to Circular Quay to take ferry over. Thanks for the info.

Hope you have a great day out William

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THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Manly

Shopping in manly.

• Art Galleries
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• Flea & Street Markets
• Shopping Malls
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Sophie Tea Art

2. Sydney Road Gallery

3. Aboriginal Fine Art and Craft

4. Manly Markets 2095

5. Aboriginal Dreamtime Fine Art Gallery

6. Balgowlah Shopping Centre

7. PHOTOSCENIC Mini Gallery

8. Budgy Smuggler

9. Artsmart Art Supplies And Framing

10. Bambino

11. Bits of Australia

12. Emporio Home & Flowers

What travellers are saying.

• Manly Markets 2095
• Aboriginal Fine Art and Craft
• Sophie Tea Art
• Sydney Road Gallery
• Aboriginal Dreamtime Fine Art Gallery

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Wynnum manly tourism and visitor information centre, description.

The Wynnum Manly Tourism Visitor Information Centre is located on the William Gunn Jetty at Manly. This accredited visitor information centre offers a one stop shop for travel information including maps, brochures, and itineraries. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Wynnum Manly Tourism Visitor Information Centre can provide advice on the things to see, things to do and where to eat. Discuss with the friendly staff your travel plans or make a booking.

• Coach Parking
• Picnic Area
• Public Toilet

William Gunn Jetty, Manly, Queensland 4179 Australia

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Completing Sydney

An attempt to visit every suburb in Sydney.

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This suburb is a go-to for any tourist coming to Sydney, and I've been here countless times myself. It's my pleasure to take this bl...

On the Tourist Trail: Manly

This suburb is a go-to for any tourist coming to Sydney, and I've been here countless times myself. It's my pleasure to take this blog to 

About author: Yaz

I'm Yaz, a born-and-raised Sydneysider who thinks there's much more to this town than the harbour and hipster brunches.

3 comments:

You make it look quite charming and far less busy than it normally feels. But it is tragic that you did not visit the teapot kangaroo statue in the funkiest neighbourhood of Manly: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:(1)Kangaroo_statue_Manly-2.jpg

That is definitely a funky statue. I do really like Manly but yes, it's not the kind of place where you're by yourself. That being said, with the end of cheap sunday transport, the closed borders and winter, it's a lot quieter than normal now.

You did well to get to Ivanhoe park, that's a little off the usual tourist track. Further up the hill there is a nicely renovated late Victorian home called Lawrentia, it's rather grand and a bit fancy. Of course there are quieter beaches in Manly on the harbour side. Little Manly tends to be just left for the locals, and Stores Beach is accessible only through a rough bushland track. There's also a newish development facing the harbour there, all expensive homes on leasehold land, in amongst the bush. If you are lucky, you might meet an echidna on North Head, there are a few that live there.

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