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Collins Flat Beach

Natural Attractions

Collins Flat Beach

With its scenic harbour views, Collins Flat Beach, just north of Sydney city and nestled between North Head and Little Manly Cove, is an idyllic spot for a romantic picnic. Whether you're swimming in the calm waters or nibbling on gourmet snacks from a hamper for two, this hidden beach, with a breathtaking view across The Heads, feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With Q Station just a short drive away, you could even end off your romantic day out with an overnight stay at this beautifully restored heritage accommodation.

North Harbour NSW

0.4 km away

Coastal Walk — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Natural Attractions

Coastal Walk

Northern Beaches Coast Walk stretching 36 kilometres from Manly to Palm Beach showcases the spectacular coastline, with views from some of Sydney's most beautiful vantage points. Most sections can be accessed on foot with several sections also accessible to wheelchairs. The coastline is rich in stories of historical, environmental and Aboriginal significance.

Manly NSW

0.6 km away

Cabbage Tree Bay — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Cabbage Tree Bay

Cabbage Tree Bay is an aquatic reserve that aims to protect marine life. It covers an area of approximately 20 hectares, from the southern end of Manly Beach, including the rocky shores and beaches, to the northern of Shelly Beach. Recreational activities are allowed in Cabbage Tree Bay such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and underwater photography. There is more than 150 species of fish dwell in the reserve including iconic species such as blue groupers, giant cuttlefish, wobbygongs and a resident green turtle. Protected and threatened species also include weedy seadragons, seagrasses, elegant wrasse and grey nurse sharks. Fishing or collecting any marine life is not permitted. You can enter the waters of Cabbage Tree Bay from Half Way beach where there are steps down onto the sand, or more safely, from Shelly Beach at the end of the walkway. There is also a beautiful rockpool at Half Way beach as well as a restaurant and small gift shop. At Shelly Beach, there is a very popular restaurant where you can sit down for a delicious meal, or grab a takeaway to enjoy on the beach. At both locations, there are toilets and change facilities, and at Shelly Beach, there are gas barbeques as well as picnic tables. Park either in Manly or in the car park on the headland overlooking Shelly Beach.

Manly NSW

0.7 km away

Shelly Beach, Manly — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Shelly Beach, Manly

Shelly Beach is located in Manly and forms part of Cabbage Tree Bay, a protected marine reserve which lies adjacent to North Head and Fairy Bower. With a maximum depth of approximately 12 metres, Shelly Beach has become popular with Scuba Divers and Snorkelers alike with a large variety of marine life which can be viewed in relatively shallow water. Take a walk around the bush track which hugs the headland offering spectacular views of North Head and the Northern Beaches. Shelly Beach has showers, toilets and a cafe along with two free electric barbeques, perfect for that family picnic. For a more formal dining option, there is a cafe on the beach named The Boathouse. Shelly Beach has a pay-and-display ticketed carpark available during daylight hours. Facilities include beach showers, toilets and change rooms next to the Boathouse Restaurant. No dogs allowed on the Beach

Manly NSW

0.7 km away

Sauna Exterior — Image credit: Q Station

Spas and Retreats

Harbour Heat Sauna

Long before wellness formed part of healing and restoration, Manly's headland was a destination for just that. At the northern edge of Sydney Harbour stands North Head – one of the most storied stretches of coastline in Australia, for its energy, its healing and its significant natural scape. Here, at Q Station, arriving ships with those weakened by the journey were met with steam, heat and care – early rituals of physical renewal. Heat was medicine. Energy was renewal. That legacy returns today, reimagined as Harbour Heat – a contemporary sauna experience grounded in history, place and the restorative power of heat. Perched at the historic wharf precinct of Q Station Manly, just behind Wharf Cafe & Bar, Harbour Heat sauna is a harbourside sauna with sweeping views across Sydney Harbour and Manly Cove. Warm up in the heat, then cool off with a dip in the ocean at Quarantine Beach – the classic hot and cold ritual in one of Sydney's most extraordinary settings. Step back in, repeat, and leave feeling genuinely renewed. Hop on their complimentary shuttle from Manly Wharf and we'll take you straight there – no map required.

Manly NSW

0.7 km away

Manly scenic walkway

Natural Attractions

Manly scenic walkway

What’s the prettiest way to get to Manly? Some say catching the Manly ferry, but those in the know will tell you otherwise – it’s the Manly scenic walkway. Beginning at Mosman’s Spit Bridge, this classic walk shows you some of the most picturesque parts of Sydney’s Middle and North Harbours and is part of Sydney's coastal walks. Follow the shoreline to Fisher Bay, Sandy Bay and Clontarf Beach then enter the Sydney Harbour National Park at Castle Rock. Make your way around Dobroyd Head and don't miss the Aboriginal rock engravings at Grotto Point or the amazing views from Arabanoo lookout. Pass by or take a dip at Reef Beach or Forty Baskets on your way to Manly. Fancy an ice cream at the Manly Corso after all that effort? Go on, you deserve it.

Manly NSW

0.7 km away

Fairfax walk

Natural Attractions

Fairfax walk

The Fairfax walk offers superb views and an enjoyable, gentle walk. This short paved track starts at the end of North Head Scenic Drive and then loops around the top of North Head. Its circuit connects three lookouts which provide the kinds of views you see on Sydney postcards. Look out over endless ocean or across the harbour to the CBD. The Fairfax walk is ideal for families with children and is partially wheelchair accessible. It’s also an exceptional walk for whale watchers during the June–July and August–October migration seasons. If you’ve still got energy to burn after completing the Fairfax walk, you can continue on through North Head Sanctuary. From there, just wind your way back down to Manly and join the Manly Scenic Walkway or take the Bluefish track to Shelley Beach.

Manly NSW

0.7 km away

Fairy Bower Rockpool — Image credit: Destination NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fairy Bower Rockpool

Fairy Bower is a lovely 20 metre rockpool located along Marine Parade. It is triangular in shape and the sculptures that sit along the rock edge are known as 'The Sea Nymphs' or 'The Oceanides', were created by Helen Leete. Built by local residents in 1929, Fairy Bower rockpool is one of a number of historic pools cut and blasted along the New South Wales coast as saltwater bathing became popular.

Manly NSW

0.8 km away

Entombed — Image credit: Escape This

Entertainment Venues

Escape This - Manly

Escape This delivers Australia's most immersive escape experiences - cinematic, story-led adventures that go far beyond what an escape room is expected to be. Their Manly venue is the Northern Beaches' only immersive experience provider and was rated in the top 10% of 'Things to Do' worldwide by Tripadvisor. With three totally unique adventure worlds to explore, it's a standout group activity destination where players create lasting memories together. Magic School - Awaken Your Magic. Defend The Academy Entombed - The Pharaoh Awakens. The Dunny - An Outback Outhouse Escape

Manly NSW

1.2 km away

Hermitage Foreshore Walk, Vaucluse — Image credit: Destination NSW

National Parks and Reserves

Sydney Harbour National Park

Sydney Harbour National Park protects a number of islands and foreshore areas around one of the world's most famous harbours. The park is home to superb swimming spots, bushwalking tracks and picnic areas, which offer a huge range of activities that will have you coming back again and again. See native wildlife living in rare pockets of bushland once common around Sydney, or take a fascinating walk to explore the park's cultural history. You'll see everything from convict-built buildings and military fortifications to Aboriginal sites and a heritage lighthouse. And with the harbour's staggering coastline creating an endless natural lookout, the park's jaw-dropping views simply have to be seen to be believed. If you're at one of the park's lookouts during winter, be sure to keep a lookout for whales on their annual migration north.

Manly NSW

1.4 km away

North Head Sanctuary, Manly

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

North Head Sanctuary

A nature refuge, bordered by dramatic cliffs, North Head Sanctuary in Manly, is located on the peninsula at the northern entrance to Sydney Harbour. This place holds significance to the Traditional Owners and Custodians, the Gayamagal People. As you explore the park's coastal bushland, via dedicated walking and bike tracks, you'll discover diverse flora and fauna, military fortifications from the Second World War and signs of the nation's early quarantine practices. Were it not for the unspoiled harbour views, it would be hard to believe you are only 11km from Sydney's CBD. There are over 10 kilometres of easy walking tracks to explore. These include the Sanctuary Loop, a circuit trail of North Head Sanctuary which visitors can complete in under 1 hour. History buffs should visit North Fort, which was integral to Sydney's defence in the Second World War. Afterwards, discover Australia's Memorial Walk, which commemorates Australia's involvement in conflicts around the world over the last 150 years. Or wander through the Third Quarantine Cemetery where over 240 people were buried between 1881-1919. You're bound to work up an appetite and a thirst exploring North Head Sanctuary. Do yourself a favour and refuel at Bella Vista or Yorky Coffee.

Manly NSW

1.4 km away

Manly Art Gallery and Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Manly Art Gallery and Museum

Located on Manly Cove, only a short walk from Manly wharf, Manly Art Gallery & Museum (MAG&M) is the centre for visual arts on the Northern Beaches. Founded in 1930, the gallery celebrates Australian artists and stories, showcasing exhibitions by both emerging and established artists alongside a permanent collection which includes a specialised ceramics and beach history focus. The MAG&M Design Shop exclusively features local artists and makers. Inspired by the collection and temporary exhibitions, the shop stocks unique gift ideas, homewares, jewellery, books and one-off artist commissions. All proceeds go to supporting the MAG&M collection and programming.

Manly NSW

1.5 km away

Manly Beach — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Manly Beach

Manly Beach is one of Australia's most famous beaches, best known for being the beach where the world's first surfing contest was held in 1964. The iconic beach, a stretch of golden sand, lined by magnificent Norfolk pines curves two kilometres from South Steyne to North Steyne and Queenscliff, where a submerged reef, or bombora creates waves prized by top surfers. It also caters for those wanting to learn to surf and most days you will see schools of surfers launching into the rips, paddling hard to get onto that elusive wave. Swimmers are, as always, advised to swim between the red and yellow flags which are patrolled by lifeguards. At North Steyne, the middle part of the beach, you'll find volleyball nets and surf board hire, as well as cafes and amenities. Follow the scenic foreshore walk starting at the southern end of the beach and finishing at Shelly Beach, a safe swimming area, protected from the waves. You're definitely spoilt for choice when it comes to Manly Beach. Whether you want to spread a towel out and enjoy the soft white sand, surf its waves, or explore its underwater marine life, whilst snorkeling or diving, there's something here for everyone. There are many cafes and restaurants to enjoy a delicious meal or coffee whilst checking out the beachside activities.

Manly NSW

1.5 km away

Rock 'n Bowl at Manly

Entertainment Venues

Rock 'n Bowl at Manly

Lawn Bowls has evolved and amassed a cult following with people of every age looking to enjoy the soft grass between their toes and the taste of an icy cold one on a sunny afternoon. Playing Barefoot Bowls with Rock 'n Bowl at Manly is the ideal group activity (for ages 12+). They bring people together with laughter, fun and a bit of friendly competition in a relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect place for groups to meet and mingle! Whether you're wanting to spend a fun afternoon with friends or you're looking for the perfect activity for an office team building session, or even just looking to get a taste of a true blue Aussie afternoon, Rock 'n Bowl at Manly is a market leader in the field of corporate bonding, team building and social gatherings.

Manly NSW

1.6 km away

Walking Manly to Spit — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Manly to Spit Bridge Scenic Walkway

The Manly Scenic Walkway is a 10-kilometre stunning bushwalk, encompassing panoramic views of the majestic entrance to Sydney Harbour and swathes of bushland from Manly Wharf to the Spit bridge. The track is 10 kilometres in length and takes the average walker about three hours to complete. There are six major entry and exit points to the walkway. These are located at The Spit Bridge, Clontarf Reserve, Cutler Road Lookout, Tania Park (Crater Cove and Arabanoo Lookouts), Wellings Reserve and Manly Wharf. Maps are available from the Manly Visitor Information Centre located next to Manly Wharf, and the National Parks Office. Tours are available for groups for a minimum of 25 people and are guided by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, bookings for this service are essential.

Manly NSW

1.6 km away

Reef Beach

Natural Attractions

Reef Beach

Reef Beach offers the chance to kick back in your own hometown, even if it’s only for an afternoon. This pretty spot, tucked away at Dobroyd Head, has incredible views across Sydney’s North Harbour to Manly. Make it a pit stop while walking the famous Manly Scenic Walkway, or pack a picnic and spend the day. Pause at the bench on the nearby boardwalk and take in the beautiful views. At low tide, you might even be able to spot some Aboriginal carvings in the rocks Dive in for a refreshing swim at this lovely spot – you’re bound to want to return. After exploring the beach take in the scenic view from nearby Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

1.9 km away

North Head

Natural Attractions

North Head

Take a day trip to the heath-covered clifftops at North Head near Manly for unending ocean views and a spectacular panorama of the harbour and Sydney skyline. Situated on the northern-most edge of the harbour within sight of Hornby Lighthouse on South Head, it's a relaxing ferry ride from Circular Quay. If you're exploring on foot, try the easy Fairfax walk and visit the lookouts. From Burragula lookout you can gaze across Sydney Harbour to South Head, and see a panaroma of the Sydney skyline. Yiningma lookout features views to the north along the cliffs and towards Blue Fish Point. Remember to bring your binoculars if you want to whale watch. For those with reduced mobility, there's an accessible path to ensure that everyone can enjoy the impressive scenery. If you're feeling adventurous, North Head has some of Sydney's best boat diving sites and is especially popular for drift dives. Explore the remains of historic shipwrecks and perhaps glimpse common sea dragons and the rarer red Indian fish in the sheltered harbour waters. The ghost tour of historic Quarantine Station is a must-do. If you're feeling like a special treat...

Manly NSW

1.9 km away

Fairlight Beach — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Natural Attractions

Fairlight Beach

Fairlight Beach is an 80 metre long, south-facing pocket of coarse sand, with a small rock pool occupying its eastern end. There are rocks to either end and some just offshore. The beach is backed by a narrow grassy foreshore reserve and coastal walk. The beach is extremely popular with families as the rockpools are safe places for toddlers to paddle in, you can picnic on the surrounding grassy areas and the swimming pool is another safe swimming option. It is also a popular spot for snorkelers and divers as there are plenty of fish to be found in shallow waters off the beach or a bit further out where the beach suddenly drops off after some distance. It is also a good spot from which to launch your kayak or paddle-board.

Manly NSW

2.0 km away

Queenscliff Beach — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Natural Attractions

Queenscliff Beach

Queenscliff Beach is at the northern headland of Sydney’s famous Manly Beach and is famous amongst the Australian surf beaches for its "heavy" waves (bomboras) that break out at sea. In a mighty swell, this is where you’re likely to find some of Manly’s pro surfers being towed by jet-skis onto towering waves. There is a 50 metre rock pool at the northern end of Queenscliff Beach, tucked up against the cliffs on the headland and a walk around the cliff edges, through the "worm tunnel" and on to the next beach, Freshwater Beach. This walk can only be completed at low tide. There are several bars and eateries nearby.

Queenscliff NSW

2.1 km away

Spit to Manly Walk, Sydney — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Forty Baskets Beach

With an enclosed Middle Harbour tidal pool and a boardwalk on one side, this pretty beach is set along the Spit to Manly Walk and is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. There's a small, grassy reserve shaded by a few Norfolk Pines for post or pre-swim lounging, and a swing set to entertain small ones. You can wander along the walk a little to work up a sweat and take in the views of the harbour. Find the beach via stairs from above Beatty Street (where you can park) in Balgowlah or by walking along the shoreline from North Harbour Reserve, both of which makes it a little less accessible than other harbour beaches. However, if you're able to make your way there, you'll be rewarded with one of Northern Sydney's most picturesque swim spots.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

2.2 km away

Manly Store

Shopping and Markets

Bare Body Beauty co Manly

Their newest store and first Sydney location, on Pittwater Road in Manly. Set within a beautiful new precinct alongside a growing collection of local businesses, Bare Body Beauty co are so happy to finally have a home in Sydney and be part of the Manly community. Bare Body Beauty co is an Australian natural skincare and body care brand, created in the Southern Highlands of NSW. Their products are handmade in small batches using simple, natural ingredients, with a focus on creating products that work and feel beautiful to use every day. Their stores are all about experiencing the products for yourself. Come in, try the products, discover the range and chat with the amazing team. Their interactive playstations give you the opportunity to try all of their products in store before choosing your favourites.

Manly NSW

2.2 km away

Queenscliff Rockpool — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Natural Attractions

Queenscliff Rockpool

Queenscliff Rockpool is located on the northern end of Queenscliff Beach, only a short walk from Manly Beach. This 50-metre ocean pool is great for swimming laps, as there are markings along the walls to make sure you are swimming in a straight line. Just around the corner from the pool, you will find a secret tunnel called 'the Wormhole' that takes you through the headland to Freshwater Beach. The best time to visit is in the mornings as the adjacent headland casts a shadow in the afternoons.

Queenscliff NSW

2.3 km away

Manly Andrew Boy Charlton Aquatic Centre — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Manly Andrew Boy Charlton Aquatic Centre

Manly Andrew Boy Charlton Aquatic Centre has a wide range of pool facilities (50 metres and 25 metres outdoor and 25-metre indoor pool which is ramp and hoist accessible) to offer hours of enjoyment for the whole family. All of the pools are heated to a comfortable temperature, making it a pleasure to take the kids swimming, even on a cold or wet day. There is an indoor children's Water Play and Leisure Pool with water fountains and sprinklers galore. Choose from a variety of programs and activities including Learn to Swim for six months through to adults, coaching, lap swimming, aqua aerobics and accessible access. The Wellness Centre boasts state-of-the-art fitness equipment (accessible to members). They have a range of exercise classes to cater for everyone both in and out of the water. After your workout, treat your tired muscles to a soak in the spa, followed by a toxin-busting visit to the sauna and steam room. The MABC crèche welcomes children from eight weeks to five years. Children can stay for a minimum of one hour and a maximum of 1.5 hours. There is also a cafe on site.

Manly NSW

2.3 km away

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head

Natural Attractions

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head offers fantastic views over to North Head and South Head and the expansive Pacific Ocean. Named in honour of Aboriginal man Arabanoo, the first Aboriginal man to live among European settlers, the lookout is a great spot for some whale watching. There are a few signs and monuments around the lookout that provide some historical information about the significance of the area. Arabanoo lookout is at Balgowlah Heights and is easily accessible by car and public transport or as a short detour along the walk from The Spit to Manly. Take a virtual tour of Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

2.4 km away

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