Things to do in Freshwater

Freshwater Beach, wedged between two headlands, is a favourite spot amongst locals.

A great beach for families, it is relatively small and perfectly located between the iconic Manly and Curl Curl Beaches.

Swimming at Freshwater Beach began back in the early 1900s when campers would holiday close to the beach. A small creek running out the north end of the beach provided fresh water for the campers and gave the beach it’s name.

After a dip at the beach, Freshwater Village is the perfect spot to grab a coffee, pastry or lunch, with a selection of boutique shops to peruse while you’re there.

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Things to do

Head to the beach

Freshwater is part of the Manly-Freshwater National and World Surfing Reserve that recognises the historical, cultural and environmental values of famous surfing beaches. It is where Duke Kahanamoku held his famous 1915 surfing demonstration that popularised surfing in Australia.

To commemorate this historic day, a life-size statue of Duke was erected on the northern headland overlooking his favourite beach. This northern headland provides excellent protection from the summer nor’easter and waves are consistent right along the beach, thanks to reliable sandbanks..  An eight lane, 50m saltwater pool at the north end of the beach is a favourite with lap swimmers.

Go on a scenic walk

When the tide is low, it is possible to ‘rock hop’ from the south end of Freshwater Beach to the famous Manly wormhole. Or you could head north, along the golden sands, past the rockpool, up a few stairs to one of the best walking tracks on the Northern Beaches. The boardwalk which hugs the rugged coastline, will lead you to South Curl Curl Beach and is about 2km return.

Improve your skills with a yoga class

Yoga enthusiasts will not be disappointed either. Qi Yoga studio located in the heart of Freshwater village contributes daily to the wellbeing of the community, by offering a variety of yoga styles taught by highly skilled teachers in a particularly relaxing environment. All casual visitors are welcome!

Spend the day shopping

Freshwater has a variety of unique boutiques, one being Keel Surf & Supply offering a carefully curated selection of products and surf/snow wear that embody the life and style of surfing/skiing and snowboarding. If you are looking for a gorgeous flowing summer dress, be sure to visit Kivari in Lawrence Street where you will find a wide range of Australian designed outfits in stunning prints and striking colours.

How to get there

Freshwater Beach is 5km (3.1 miles) from Manly and 17.2km (10.6 miles) from Sydney’s CBD.

• Catch the B line bus from Wynyard Station and change at Westfield Warringah Mall to the 167 bus which departs from Stand A
• Catch the 167 bus from Stand A, East Esplanade, Manly Wharf

Further afield

Looking for more things to do nearby, get inspired with our blogs on things to do in Curl Curl and Dee Why.