Top Things to do on holiday in Manly…
If you’re on holiday in Sydney, Manly is a must. As the marketing slogan states… 7 miles from Sydney, 1000 miles from care! Whether you visit for a day or fancy staying for a week you’ll have no problems filling your time. Holiday like a local by visiting the best Manly attractions. Here are my suggestions on ways to enjoy whilst keeping the $ in the community back pocket.
Helpful resources: – Covered Magazine, Peninsular Living & Northern Beaches Living Magazine, Whileaway Guide, ThinkLocal,
Spit to Manly Walk
There aren’t many walking tracks with views quite like this. Sensational would be an understatement. Take a camera! Take the bus to Spit Bridge, there are a couple of cafe/restaurant options here for coffee or lunch before the walk. The area around Spit Bridge, Middle Harbour is a cute spot to explore in its own right. The walking track is moderate with some steep steps, uneven ground and boardwalks. Look out for the historic aboriginal carvings along the route. These are sometimes difficult to spot if it’s been raining or stormy but are signposted. My suggestion for a perfect end to such a walk is Manly Pavilion. Owned only in the last few years by two local North Shore brothers this location was derelict for over 5 years. With a welcoming atmosphere during the day, clientele range from walkers to yogis to ladies that lunch and well presented Northern Beaches sorts! Between lunch and dinner, it’s still possible to get sharing plates. The food is fresh, the wine list extensive and cocktails lush. Paul and the team are sure to look after you.
Bubbles or Cocktails!
Whether it’s a sunny summer afternoon or cooler winters evening Manly is one of Sydney’s top spots to enjoy waterside drinks. Harbourside has Manly Pavilion and Hugo’s both of which I would recommend. My favourite is Sugarfish with happy hour 4-6 pm daily. In the town itself, Insitu and Belgrave Cartel would be my top picks. For an Oceanside tipple try The Boat House @ Shelly Beach. If cocktails and bubbles aren’t your thing there are plenty of other options. The popular 4 pines brewery opposite the ferry and The Styne, a huge traditional Aussie pub right on the corner of the Corso – my husbands favourite local!
Yoga
You can’t get two minutes down the road without seeing a yogi (wannabe or otherwise!). There are a few local options to chose from but my favourite is P.L.A.Y. Founded in 2004 by Duncan Peak in Neutral Bay he now has nine studios across Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and New Zealand.
Harbourside
If you don’t fancy yoga indoors then there’s always SUP yoga on the harbour to try. A little less chilled options include parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding or SUPBall. Also, Harbourside, of course, is Manly Ferry Wharf. Transformed through the years this historic gateway to Manly now boast some of Sydney’s finest waterfront bar and restaurants. ‘Hello Manly’ is in front of the wharf and a recommended first stop for anyone visiting.
Oceanside
With a little more energy, created by mother natures waves is ocean beach. Every morning from 7am The Bold & Beautiful (a group of locals) swim from Manly to Shelly Beach. They meet at the front of Manly Lifesaving Club and welcome visitors for a one way or return swim. The most famous past time on Ocean Beach to partake in is of course surfing. Whether you chose to watch or take the plunge and have a go, the Pacific Ocean doesn’t get much better. I could sit with a coffee and watch the surfers for hours. Talking of coffee, my favourite breakfast and coffee hangout is Hakans. Owner Hakan Cinar brews the best cup in Manly, my opinion anyway! There are a couple of local Northern Beaches surf schools but Manly Surf School is a great shout.
North Head
Starting at The Boat House on Shelly Beach the walk up through North Heads is a wonderful option (no dogs). The journey takes you through the National Park to Q Station. This was the former Quarantine Station and now a busy tourist attraction. Steep and rugged on the way up the views towards the Northern Beaches are well worth the climb. From the 1830’s Quarantine Station housed those suspected to be carrying contagious diseases. With panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, there is also a small beach and restaurant. The historic buildings include a museum and tours are also on offer.
On two wheels
If you’re feeling energetic why not hire a bike and explore Manly and the surrounding suburbs on two wheels. Head up to North Head for breathtaking views back over the city. Manly Dam is a quiet and picturesque place for a picnic and a bit of fishing. It’s a little too far on foot, but on a bike, it’s within reach. Taking in another couple of Northern Beaches is easy on a bike. Ride up to Dee Why beach via Freshwater (Freshy) and Curl Curl. Freshy is a gorgeous little suburb to jump off. Explore the independent shops and stop for refreshments at one of the chilled cafes or bars.
A mooch around town
Manly has many independent boutiques worth a browse! Homewares, gifts, clothes, art & crafts, there is plenty to keep you amused. My advice would be to wander from The Corso. Stroll along Belgrave Street which turns into Pittwater Road. Explore the side streets and cut back through to The Corso and along Darley Road. A must visit is my favourite clothes shop N.B Now– one for you girls!
Have you visited or do you live in Manly? If you have any suggestions for your best attractions in Manly I’d love to know. It’s all about trying to keep the $ in the community back pocket so independent and locally owned recommendations please.
