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With longer days and warmer weather it’s time to discover the best activities and experiences for an unforgettable summer getaway. Yes, the Northern Beaches is well known for beautiful beaches, but there are so many other wonderful things for you to do in and out of the water.

We’ve put together a fantastic list of activities to keep you entertained this summer.

Outdoor dining

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Sit back and enjoy the beautiful weather in one of the many cafés, restaurants and bars on the Northern Beaches. Learn about the locals’ favourite spots to eat and drink in our Live Like a Local guides.

Cool off on our beaches

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image Courtesy of Destination NSW

Going to the beach is the most popular activity here on the Northern Beachces, and with more than 23 ocean beaches for you to discover, there is plenty of space for everyone. The great thing about summer is that the lifeguards are out longer and the weather is perfect for an afternoon dip.

Go snorkelling at Cabbage Tree Bay

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Cabbage Tree Bay is the ideal spot to cool off on a hot summer’s day. With more than 150 species of marine life in this beautiful marine reserve, it is the perfect place to meet some of the wildlife, including iconic species such as blue groupers, giant cuttlefish, wobbegongs and a resident green turtle. For information on other snorkelling spots, read our Northern Beaches snorkelling guide.

Kayak on the Northern Beaches

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

One of the best ways to explore our waterways is by kayak. Either bring your own, hire one or join a tour where knowledgeable and energetic guides will teach you the basics of kayaking before you set off. Read our kayaking guide to discover some of the Northern Beaches most secluded beaches.

Enjoy shaded walks

Best Walks on the Northern Beaches

Don’t let the heat of the summer sun stop you getting your steps up this year. Some favourite shaded walks are Allenby Park, Stony Range, Manly Dam, Warriewood Wetlands and Irrawong Reserve. All walks have plenty of shade and are the perfect spot to escape the summer sun. For more information read our shady summer walks guide.

Learn to surf

Learn to surf this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Summer is the perfect time to learn a new activity or brush up on existing skills. Surfing is a popular activity among the locals and is an activity that has lots of room for improvement. The surf schools in the area cater to all levels.

Learn to stand-up paddleboard (SUP)

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another popular sport and is definitely an activity to try this summer. Gliding through the water on a large board is the perfect test of balance and core strength. Have a read of some of the best places to SUP on the Northern Beaches for local tips and tricks.

Find your inner aqua-yogi

SUP Yoga on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of FlowMocean

Why not try a completely different form of yoga – on a stand-up paddleboard in the calm harbour waters of Manly Cove. Or kayak across the harbour to a secret beach location for a 30-minute yoga session.

Dive into an ocean pool

Swim in the Rockpool this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Another great thing about the Northern Beaches is that most of the beaches have free ocean pools. With 15 stunning beachside pools varying in shape and size, they are great for swimming laps or simply sitting back watching the waves crashing against the pool walls. They are also perfect to escape the crowds and a great swimming alternative if the beach is closed.

Read our rockpool guide to find out why these pools should be on your bucket list during your Sydney visit!

Enjoy some gelato or ice cream

Things to do on the Northern Beaches this summer
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Summer time is the perfect time to grab a scoop of ice cream or gelato. The Northern Beaches has plenty of ice cream and gelato shops scattered across the area and if you’re in Manly you have around 8 shops from which to choose.