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Keen to get the most out of your day in Manly? Follow our itinerary for the perfect visit to this bustling beachside suburb.
MORNING
Take the Manly ferry from Circular Quay and disembark at Manly Wharf, where you’ll find the Manly Visitor Information Centre. Head straight up The Corso, a pedestrian-only restaurant, bar and shopping strip that delivers you to Manly Beach, a designated World Surfing reserve and recently named one of the best beaches in the world by TripAdvisor. Grab breakfast and a coffee with breezy beach views at The Pantry (Ocean Prom, North Steyne) before taking a lovely walk along the water’s edge to Shelly Beach for a swim or a snorkel. Then, wander back to Manly Beach or wharfside and rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board (SUP) with Manly Kayak Centre (East Side Pier, Manly Wharf), or take a surf lesson with Manly Surf School (93/95 N Steyne).
LUNCH
Tummy rumbling after your swim? Why not grab some fish and chips from Manly Ocean Foods (108 The Corso) or Fishmongers Manly (Rialto Square), then sit by the beach and watch the world go by. If a dine-in experience is more your style, try Wharf Bar (Manly Wharf) for casual pub grub and seafood, or Manly Grill (30 S Steyne) for classic steak, fish and oysters. Or if you were loving the vibes at Shelly Beach after your walk, The Boathouse Shelly Beach (1 Marine Pde) is another favourite.
AFTERNOON
It’s time to explore further afield. There are two incredible nearby hikes – head west from Manly Wharf for the Manly Scenic Walkway, which snakes around the harbour past Fairlight, Balgowlah and Clontarf; or head east to North Head for scenic headland views, history and walking trails. While you’re at North Head take a ghost tour at the historic Quarantine Station, more commonly known as Q Station (1 North Head Scenic Drive). Or if hiking’s not your thing, pop into Manly Art Gallery & Museum (1a West Esplanade) – or just stay on The Corso and its surrounding laneways and boutique shop to your heart’s content.
EVENING
You’ll no doubt be ready to sit down after a day on your feet and in the water, and Manly has options aplenty for diners. Our picks would be Manly institution Hugos (Manly Wharf) for fantastic pizza, cocktails and atmosphere. Or, make your way past Manly Cove to Manly Pavilion (West Esplanade), famous for its heritage-listed terrace bar and unobstructed views of the harbour. Grab a night cap at underground speakeasy The Cumberland (17/19 Central Ave) to finish your day.
