Manly, New South Wales: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Imagine a place where the sun shines bright, the beaches are stunning, and fun is always in the air. Welcome to Manly, a lively suburb by the sea that has drawn visitors for years. Just a short ferry ride from Sydney, Manly mixes natural beauty, culture, and adventure perfectly.

• Manly is famous for its beautiful beaches like Queenscliff, North Steyne, and South Steyne.
• There are over 20km of bike paths and coastal walks to explore, including the Shelly Beach Walk and the Manly to Spit Bridge Walk.
• Take the iconic Manly Ferry for a 25-30 minute ride across Sydney Harbour.
• Try exciting activities like surfing lessons and kayaking on the calm Manly Dam.
• Learn about Manly’s culture at the Manly Art Gallery and Museum, and enjoy the lively dining at Manly Wharf.

Manly is a lively suburb of Sydney known for its iconic spots. It’s more than just Manly Beach. Visit the Q Station, a former quarantine site, to learn about Manly’s history. Or, head to the North Head Sanctuary for beautiful views and trails.

Beer lovers should check out the Four Pines Brewery. The Manly Distillery offers local gin for those who prefer spirits. Art fans will enjoy the Manly Art Gallery and Museum, featuring local artists’ work.

Getting to Manly is easy with many transport options. The Manly Ferry from Circular Quay is scenic and quick, taking 30 minutes. You can choose from public or private ferry services, with the private ones being faster at 20 minutes. Driving or taking a bus is also possible, but the ferry is usually the best choice.

“Manly is a true gem, offering a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant local experiences.”

Taking the Manly Ferry from Circular Quay to Manly is a must-do when you visit Sydney. This 30-minute trip across the harbor gives you a close-up view of famous landmarks. You’ll see the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

The ferry moves smoothly over the Sydney Harbour waters. Passengers get to see the city’s beautiful waterfront. The ferry views show off Sydney’s natural beauty and its amazing buildings.

“The Manly Ferry ride is the quintessential Sydney experience – a chance to soak in the city’s iconic landmarks and feel the salt-tinged breeze on your face.” – Jane Doe, travel enthusiast

Whether you’re heading to Manly or coming back, the ferry ride is perfect. It lets you dive into the city’s maritime history and enjoy the Sydney Harbour views.

As the ferry crosses the harbor, you’ll be amazed by the city’s beauty and architecture. This experience will make you want to see more of Sydney’s famous sights and attractions.

Manly, in New South Wales, is a place of stunning coastal beauty. It has many walking trails for everyone. Whether you want a calm walk or a tough hike, Manly’s coastal walks let you enjoy the area’s beauty.

The Shelly Beach Walk is a 1.5km easy walk with 11 sculptures. It’s like a fun art hunt by the sea. You’ll see beautiful art and enjoy the peaceful views. It’s perfect for those who love art and nature.

The Fairfax Walk, or North Head Sanctuary Loop, is a 800-meter trail. It’s great for whale watching from July to October. Starting at the North Scenic Drive carpark, you’ll see nature and history as you walk through the North Head Sanctuary.

If you’re up for a challenge, try the Manly to Spit Bridge walk. It’s a 10-kilometer trail with amazing harbor views. You’ll pass through beautiful beaches like Fisher Bay and Forty Baskets. It’s a great way to see Manly’s beauty and explore its hidden spots.

Manly Beach, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, is famous for starting surfing in Australia. It’s perfect for surfers of all levels. The Manly Surf School, open since 1983, teaches both new and experienced surfers. With its great waves, Manly Beach is a top spot for surfing.

Feel the excitement of surfing at Manly Beach with lessons from the Manly Surf School. Their skilled instructors will teach you the basics, like paddling and catching waves. No matter your skill level, they have a lesson package for you.

Manly also has water adventures on the calm Manly Dam. You can rent kayaks from the Manly Kayak Centre to see the beautiful waterway. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy Manly’s nature away from the crowds.

Looking for a thrill or a calm paddle, Manly has it all. Dive into the exciting water sports this coastal suburb offers.

Manly is a coastal gem in New South Wales, offering a wide range of activities for every traveler. From the famous Manly ferry ride to the varied coastal walks, it shows off Sydney’s natural beauty.

One top activity is the Manly Beach promenade. Here, you can walk along the beach, enjoy the ocean views, and feel the relaxed vibe. Make sure to visit Shelly Beach too. It’s a hidden spot with great views over the beaches.

For adventure lovers, snorkeling adventures in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve are a must. Or, try surfing lessons at Manly Beach. The waves are great for both new and experienced surfers.

The North Head lookout offers amazing harbor and Sydney views. The Fairfax Walk and North Head Sanctuary Loop are perfect for those who enjoy coastal walks. They let you dive into the area’s history and nature.

After exploring, visit the Manly Wharf. It’s full of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local food and the lively scene.

Manly has something for everyone, from relaxing beach days to thrilling adventures and cultural spots. Discover the top things to do here and make your Sydney trip unforgettable.

For a dose of culture, the Manly Art Gallery and Museum is a top spot. It’s small but packs a big punch with over 130 works by Antonio Dattilo Rubbo. Rubbo was an Italian artist who lived in Australia for a long time. The museum also has a wide range of Australian ceramics, photos, paintings, and multimedia art. This gives visitors a peek into the area’s rich art history.

When you step into the Manly Art Gallery and Museum, you’ll be wowed by the art and culture in Manly. The museum has a permanent collection with amazing works by Antonio Dattilo Rubbo. He’s a famous Australian artist known for his beautiful coastal and city scenes.

There’s more than Rubbo’s art, though. The gallery also has a great selection of Australian ceramics, photos, and multimedia art. It celebrates the local art scene. Whether you love art or just want to experience culture, the Manly Art Gallery and Museum is a treasure that will inspire you.

“The Manly Art Gallery and Museum is a hidden gem that offers a window into the vibrant artistic culture of the region. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of Australian art and creativity.”

Manly’s dining scene is full of flavors, with the Manly Wharf at its heart. This spot is a go-to for a wide range of restaurants and bars. It suits every taste and preference.

At Papi Chulo, you’ll find amazing barbecue and craft cocktails. Nearby, 4 Pines Brewery offers local craft beers with beautiful harbor views. The Manly Wharf is a top spot for food lovers.

Looking for a casual lunch or a fancy dinner? The Manly Wharf has it all. Enjoy fresh seafood or try foods from around the world. It shows off Manly’s diverse culture.

As the sun goes down, the Manly Wharf gets even more exciting. You’ll find bars and live music to enjoy. Whether you want a craft beer or a special cocktail, there’s plenty of choices.

“Manly’s dining scene is a true feast for the senses, with the Manly Wharf serving as the epicenter of this culinary adventure. From local craft brews to international flavors, there’s something to delight every palate in this vibrant coastal town.”

For the best dining in Manly, head to the Manly Wharf. Enjoy great food, stunning views, and a fun atmosphere. It’s what makes this place so special.

For those looking for a thrilling adventure, the Q Station is a must-visit. It was once a Quarantine Station and now lets visitors explore its spooky past. This historic site was where plague patients were isolated, and now, it offers ghost tours.

These tours take you through the old living quarters, filled with eerie remnants. You’ll hear stories of past patients and staff. The guides share tales of paranormal encounters, making you wonder if you might meet a ghost.

If you’re brave, you can spend the night at the Q Station. You’ll stay in the former Isolation Precinct, feeling the chilling atmosphere. Guests often report strange noises and feelings of being watched, making for an unforgettable experience.

Choosing a ghost tour or an overnight stay at the Q Station is a unique way to see Manly’s history. It offers a peek into the paranormal world that some believe is still alive in its walls.

Step into the spooky world of Manly’s Quarantine Station. Take a ghost tour or dare to spend the night in the former Isolation Precinct. Here, strange things are said to happen.

“The Q Station is a place of profound history and mystery. I’ve never experienced anything quite like the palpable sense of the past that lingers there.” – Sarah, Manly Resident

Manly, New South Wales, is a coastal gem full of activities and experiences. It offers everything from the famous Manly Ferry to diverse coastal walks and thrilling water sports. This guide shows you the top things to do in Manly for a memorable Sydney trip.

Looking for relaxation, outdoor fun, or cultural sights? Manly has it all. With its beautiful beaches, great food scene, and historic sites, Manly captures Sydney’s coastal spirit. You can walk along Shelly Beach, go kayaking, or check out the Manly Art Gallery and Museum.

So, get your sunscreen ready and your walking shoes on. Prepare to explore Manly, New South Wales. It’s a place where outdoor adventures, cultural spots, and Sydney’s coastal vibe come together perfectly.