Manly Beach
Manly Beach
4.5
00:00 - 23:59
Monday
00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
00:00 - 23:59
Thursday
00:00 - 23:59
Friday
00:00 - 23:59
Saturday
00:00 - 23:59
Sunday
00:00 - 23:59
About
SHOP .....in the sunshine with over 200 stores to explore. Discover funky boutiques in hidden lane ways, wander through the weekend outdoor markets or splurge on a whole new wardrobe on The Corso. At every turn, it's sheer shopping pleasure to satisfy everyone. TASTE .....an amazing array of flavours in over 100 cafes, restaurants, bars and eateries. Whether it's a lingering lunch of classy dining, a sumptuous seafood selection for dinner, fast and fresh takeaway or a walk along the beach front with an ice cream in hand. Any time of day or night, you'll find a taste to tempt. LIVE .....life and discover your hidden talents. Get active with surfing, sailing, scuba diving... and everything in between! Take a dip at the beach, or try your hand at beach volleyball. And when relaxation is on the agenda, treat yourself to a hotel stay or enjoy some pampering at one of our many salons. The perfect place for adventure or to relax and explore. FEEL ..... the sand between your toes after a long day at work. Absorb the geography and the nature that makes Manly special. Nestled between the harbour and the ocean, over 40 beaches and walkways give an escape to the daily grind. Just cast out a fishing line, pack a picnic basket, or bask in the sun. Relax in your favourite spot and soak up the serenity.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Manly
A 40-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay will take you to the famous northern beach of Manly. The beaches here are perfect for learning to surf or spending the day sun-tanning. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a great way to experience Sydney Harbour Bay and the Australian bush land. Along the foreshore, there are plenty of watering holes and wine bars with excellent cuisine. There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants as well, especially along the family-oriented areas like Shelly Beach. An excellent way to experience Manly is to rent a bike and explore the dedicated bike paths and off road trails. The North Head National Park is another must-see. Located on the southern tip of Manly, North Head National Park offers great bushwalks and panoramic views of the city.
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4.5
7,807 reviews
Excellent
4,766
Very good
2,426
Average
512
Poor
66
Terrible
38
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Debbie R
13 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
We enjoyed 10 beautiful days in Manly! The weather was delightful.
We stayed five days in a VRBO that was right off the Corso (shopping plaza that doesn't allow cars)and five days in Manly Pacific hotel facing the ocean. Both were clean, quiet and near the beach, restaurants, and shopping! We enjoyed happy hour on the rooftop of the Styne hotel, many desserts at Yo-Chi, every breakfast at the Pacific Manley, dinner with an ocean view at The Pantry Restaurant and the shopping on the Corso! There was a street fair on Saturday and we purchased several souvenirs from local artists to bring home. We walked to Sandy Beach, did the hike from Shelly Beach to Spit and went to the Taranga zoo! We found Manley Beach to be a great spot to stay and use as a home base and explore the area. We did a day trip to the Blue Mountains via the train and hired a guide to hike the Grand Canyon. We went to the Fish Market and the Aquarium. It was easy to catch the ferry to Sydney Harbor and Circulare Quay (20 minute ferry ride) to visit the Sydney Opera House and Barangaroo. Two weeks in Sydney and a lifetime of memories!
We stayed five days in a VRBO that was right off the Corso (shopping plaza that doesn't allow cars)and five days in Manly Pacific hotel facing the ocean. Both were clean, quiet and near the beach, restaurants, and shopping! We enjoyed happy hour on the rooftop of the Styne hotel, many desserts at Yo-Chi, every breakfast at the Pacific Manley, dinner with an ocean view at The Pantry Restaurant and the shopping on the Corso! There was a street fair on Saturday and we purchased several souvenirs from local artists to bring home. We walked to Sandy Beach, did the hike from Shelly Beach to Spit and went to the Taranga zoo! We found Manley Beach to be a great spot to stay and use as a home base and explore the area. We did a day trip to the Blue Mountains via the train and hired a guide to hike the Grand Canyon. We went to the Fish Market and the Aquarium. It was easy to catch the ferry to Sydney Harbor and Circulare Quay (20 minute ferry ride) to visit the Sydney Opera House and Barangaroo. Two weeks in Sydney and a lifetime of memories!
Written 16 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Debbie R,
Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review! It’s wonderful to hear that you had an amazing time and created lasting memories while enjoying everything Manly has to offer. From the stunning beach and scenic walks to the fantastic selection of restaurants and shops, it truly is a special destination. We’re fortunate to have such a vibrant area so close to the city, with the added charm of a scenic ferry ride. We hope to welcome you back again soon to make even more unforgettable memories!
Thank you again
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 18 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PourJF
Montreal, Canada372 contributions
Feb 2025 • Family
Easy to access by ferry from BDC (if you plan to use a credit card to pay your passage, please note that you need ONE DIFFERENT credit card for each of your passengers). Plan a couple of hours including lunch to enjoy the 2 beaches that are 1 km walking on a dedicated path. For a 30 C cloudy saturday it was not really busy so ideal to get out of the city.
Written 8 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi PourJF
Thanks for the great advice regarding how to pay for our public transport and the requirement for one credit card per person.
If this is not possible, Opal Cards are widely available from outlets located around the city.
Both credit cards and Opal Card have the same benefits, with daily and weekly maximums applied to travel costs.
Regards
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 9 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Daniel L
Atlanta, GA147 contributions
Feb 2025 • Solo
Great beaches on town. Don't take a tour, but grab fast and efficient public ferry ( not fast boats) to Manley which runs every 20 minutes and takes only 25 min. Explore the town and shops then wal 209 years to big surfing beach on other side. There is calmer swimming beach just to your right as ferry approaches Manley if you don't like strong surf. Take a walk around public park. Great day trip. !!
Written 26 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi familyoffour50
Thanks for the review.
As you rightly point out, while there are many Northern Beaches tours to join from the city - from motorcycle experiences to plane trips - it's very easy and quick to simply go it alone and catch the beautifully scenic Manly Ferry across the harbour for the perfect day trip to Manly and beyond.
We're glad you enjoyed our beaches - we have so many there's something for everyone. Choose from surfing and swimming in the waves at famous Manly Beach, hiring a SUP at Manly Cove or exploring underwater with snorkel and goggles at Shelly Beach.
Regards
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 3 March 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SeeTheW0rld62
Sunnyvale, CA2,424 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
We were staying in Sydney and decided to take the ferry to Manly. It's a nice, long beach with many shops nearby. It was a bit cold and windy the day we went so we didn't get near the water, but I'm sure it would be great fun on a warm day.
Written 27 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi SeeTheW0rld62
You're right, Manly Beach is great fun on a warm day! Whether you're swimming, surfing, snorkelling or simply strolling the beachfront and shopping in the Corso, Manly has so much to offer.
Even through the cooler months this area is perfect for scenic walks and exploring by bike.
We hope to see you again soon.
Thanks
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 29 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nerdpatch17
Orlando, FL48 contributions
Sept 2024 • Friends
So a friend and I were visiting from the states and had to try out at least one beach in Australia. Our Aussie friends highly recommended Manly beach. The beach is clean and lively, pet friendly. There was so much a person can do at the bench. A lot of restaurants and there was even a market going on where artist were selling merchandise. I really enjoy manly beach and I recommend going.
Written 25 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Nerdpatch17
Your Aussie friends certainly know what they're talking about - if you can visit only one beach in Sydney, make it Manly Beach!
This world famous strip of sand with its vibey village, stunning walks and lively food and bar scene gets accolades for a reason.
Thank you for your review
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 29 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
cjkranz
Washington DC, DC1,204 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
Manly Beach is wonderful with lots to see and do. The beach itself is clean and well attended. There are life guards and surf guards on duty! While we were there, there was a confirmed shark sighting and they had to evacuate everyone from the water. It was done in an orderly manner and honestly an impressive operation.
Definitely worth it!
Definitely worth it!
Written 7 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi cjkranz,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed everything Manly has to offer. Our Surf Life Savers truly are exceptional—they play a crucial role in ensuring everyone can enjoy the beach safely. It is lovely to know their hard work and dedication where so appreciated.
Thank you again
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 17 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lockie H
Asheville, NC2,708 contributions
Nov 2024 • Couples
Manly Beach is not getting five stars because we saw quite a few dead blue bottles on the shore. They could be the non-stinging variety, but I don’t like worrying about jellyfish when I’m in the water!
That said, they were plenty of families playing in the water. It’s a beautiful beach with nice, clear, warmish water and soft sand that also features a wonderful beach-walk where you can take dramatic photos on the rocks (See photos).
Fantastic, well-paved beach walk that also features a delightful beachfront, free swimming pool. (Also, see photos).
The surrounding town has a great deal of cute little restaurants and shops to pop into as well!
Just a little worrisome that there were jellies.
That said, they were plenty of families playing in the water. It’s a beautiful beach with nice, clear, warmish water and soft sand that also features a wonderful beach-walk where you can take dramatic photos on the rocks (See photos).
Fantastic, well-paved beach walk that also features a delightful beachfront, free swimming pool. (Also, see photos).
The surrounding town has a great deal of cute little restaurants and shops to pop into as well!
Just a little worrisome that there were jellies.
Written 5 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Lockie H,
Thank you very much for taking the time to write a review on beautiful Manly beach. We are very sorry to hear you experienced a day when the jellyfish were prevalent. This is not a regular occurrence for Manly beach, however jelly fish can be experienced on occasions on Australian beach's. We're glad that you could still enjoy the stunning scenery, scenic coastal walks, and vibrant cafés and restaurants. We hope your next visit brings clear waters and perfect beach weather!
Thank you again for your review
Manly Visitors Information Centre
Written 9 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
roy v
Traralgon, Australia6,069 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We have just had a week staying opposite the Manly beach.
A great spot for water activities, always people swimming, surfing, playing beach volley ball on the courts set up on the beach.
Plenty of toilet and shower facilities.
It is a lovely spot for a walk anytime of the day but especially in the morning when it can be very busy.
The beach is well maintained and always looks clean.
Beautifull Norfolk Pines line the walkway between the beach and road.
All in all a beautiful spot to spend time
A great spot for water activities, always people swimming, surfing, playing beach volley ball on the courts set up on the beach.
Plenty of toilet and shower facilities.
It is a lovely spot for a walk anytime of the day but especially in the morning when it can be very busy.
The beach is well maintained and always looks clean.
Beautifull Norfolk Pines line the walkway between the beach and road.
All in all a beautiful spot to spend time
Written 15 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi royv647
It sounds like you had an amazing time staying here with us.
You've certainly identified some of Manly's greatest attributes.
The village also proves a fantastic base for any visit to Sydney, being the Gateway to the Northern Beaches - a 36km stretch of beautiful beachside suburbs - and located a short but incredibly scenic ferry ride to the Sydney CBD for all your city exploring.
Thank you for your great review.
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 2 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gen S
8 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
From Sydney to Manly by ferry - it's an experience. Right at the harbour there are two small beaches with calm waters and lots of shade. If you like more visibility and waves, then after a few hundred meters is Manly Beach. Super! Rent an umbrella for 15 AUD, it's worth it.
Automatically translated
Written 15 March 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yun
Taipei, Taiwan7 contributions
Apr 2024 • Solo
I stayed here for three days. Despite some rainy weather, the town's atmosphere was still worth experiencing. On sunny days, the beach is stunning, with fewer tourists compared to Bondi Beach, making it much more relaxing!
Written 11 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi cyfu98
Thank you for your review.
Manly is a great place to stay when visiting Sydney. It's perfect as a stand-alone destination, while as the 'Gateway to the Northern Beaches' it is a great base to explore all the peninsular has to offer, with it's long list of stunning beaches extending all the way north to Palm Beach.
A short 20-minute ferry ride from Manly will land you in the heart of Sydney, allowing for a great day trip.
Come and see us again soon.
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written 16 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is there a place in manly to rent a beach chair, towels, etc? Staying in Sydney and want to go for day trip
Written 3 February 2025
Gregory Z
Australia
Are small handheld sparklers allowed on the beach? It will be a small event of two people and only a handful of sparklers.
Written 22 January 2023
I don't know the answer to that question. We were just in Manly for the day.
Written 23 January 2023
Is alcohol allowed on the beach?
Written 19 December 2019
Manly
Manly, Australia
Hi pleasemorevacation
Alcohol Prohibited Areas
*Having opened containers of alcohol in these areas is banned during these times only*
- East Esplanade, Manly 'The Office' - 8pm to 8am
Please don't forget to take your rubbish with you!
We love our natural wonderland and want everyone to enjoy it's natural beauty.
***
Alcohol FREE Zones - 24 hours (NO ALCOHOL)
- Shelly Beach, Manly
- Manly Beach and beachfront reserves Queenscliff to South Steyne
- Manly CBD
- Lagoon Park, Manly
- Marine Parade, Manly
- Manly West beaches and parks
Best to have a look at the Northern Beaches council website for more information on alcohol free zones in Manly and the greater regions of the northern beaches.
We Love Manly - Have fun but please help us keep it safe and clean!
Thanks
Manly Visitors Information Centre
Written 22 December 2019
We are going to Australia for 3 weeks and plan to spend a 7-9 days in an around Sydney. Is Manly a good place to base ourselves?
Written 23 September 2019
Manly
Manly, Australia
Hi Jack,
It certainly is! It is very close to Circular Quay/center of the city (30 min with the iconic big Manly ferry and only 18 min with the fast ferry), relaxed and beautifully located (with not only the impressive Manly Beach but also a lot of smaller and more secluded beaches and amaaaazing scenic walks). There are around a 150 cafes and restaurants around Manly area, nice shops and boutiques and a variety of accommodation options.
You will LOVE it!
If you decide to stay in Manly please pop in a say hi to us at the Hello Manly Information Center located at the wharf. We can give you great tips about the area and help organize any trips or attractions you might be interested in :)
See you soon, Jack!
Hello Manly Team
Written 24 September 2019
brenda R
Huntington Beach, California
If staying in Sydney for 3-4 days where is the best place to stay close to beach? Is mainly beach good place to stay?
Written 9 September 2018
Manly Beach is an excellent location. In addition to the beach there are some great restaurants and bars and a whole coastline of beaches. The of Sydney is only 30 mins by ferry or 15 mins by fast ferry. Several great walks are around. The tourism office is at the wharf. Also have a beer/meal at the 4 Pines Brewery across from the wharf and or the 16’ Skiff Club.
Written 10 September 2018
We'll be visiting Sydney in early Nov, and are considering also staying several days in Manly. What neighborhoods would you recommend for cafes, not overly touristy and near beaches? Also, we would like to kayak. Beach recommendations?
Written 5 August 2018
The beauty of Sydney and it’s suburbs, is you can simply walk out of your hotel - and find little communities, neighbourhoods where all the locals are which have great cafes and dining options. It’s safe to say any hotel or Home you stay at - there is something nearby. Plus it’s the fun of exploring.
Manly has a great kayak hiring place on its wharf on the esplanade there - which would be a better area to kayak, as Bondi is a surf beach.
Enjoying!!
Written 7 August 2018
Hi we are planning to go to Manly beach on Sunday. As we are tourists staying in a hotel can you tell me if you can hire beach towels at the beach please?
Written 9 March 2018
0
Votes
I am sorry , I have no idea? I would think the hotel where you are staying would be able to help out though :)
Written 10 April 2018
@Pat S. I am visiting Sydney at the end of the month and was wondering, did you book ferry tickets in advance or did you take a ferry over there spontaneously? I am also planning on visiting Taronga Zoo and I found a website that offers a combo pass on the manlyferry website. I am wondering only because we are vising during rainy season so we are unsure of whether or not to book things in advance such as zoo tickets, GBR diving, and harbor cruises due to daily changes in the weather.
Thanks!
Written 5 March 2018
The Manly ferry is worth the trip.
Come for the day, and have a sunset dinner over the wharf.
Bring your swimmers, as the water may still be warm for snorkeling.
Recommend bike hire to see more area, in a shorter amount of time.
Travel around Sydney can be done by purchasing an opal card at any transport station with a booth or newsagency. All trains, buses and public ferry’s are swipe on and off.
Zoo will be cheaper to pre-purchase. But you can do this on the day of travel from the Manly Information Centre, or booking booths at Circular Quay.
Written 7 March 2018
Hi..
I am visiting Sydney in last week of May. Would like to know which part of the day is good to visit beaches?
Will it be sunny throughout in Sydney?
Written 13 May 2017
It's beautiful anytime on Manly beach and Shelley beach. Weather should be OK we are still having sunny days and mild temperatures. Ride the ferry over from Circular Quay.
Written 17 May 2017
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