Beach, brunch and boutiques: Experience Manly like a local
Manly might be best known for its iconic beach but ask any local and they’ll tell you it’s the little things that make this laidback suburb so special.
Whether it’s morning coffee from their favourite café, a quiet swim at a lesser-known beach or browsing boutiques in the laneways, the real charm of Manly is found in the places you might miss if you’re only here for the highlights.
Ready to experience Manly like a local? Here are the spots locals return to again and again.
Life’s a beach
Manly Beach is the main drawcard and for good reason. With its wide stretch of sand and great surf, it’s the perfect place for a swim or a stroll. If you are staying a little longer and want to go slightly further afield, here are some local favourites:
Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is loved by early morning swimmers, snorkellers and walkers. The aquatic reserve is teeming with 160+ species of marine life and its calm waters are the perfect spot to relax.
Forty Baskets Beach
A peaceful harbour beach with calm waters, shade and a netted swimming area which is perfect for families. Locals love it for picnics, stand-up paddle boarding or a relaxing swim.
Reef Beach
This small and secluded beach is a local favourite for its clear water, bushland setting and feeling of serenity.
Castle Rock Beach
Sitting between Clontarf and Balgowlah, Castle Rock is a quiet harbour beach with a peaceful, tucked-away feel. It’s a favourite among locals for swims, sunbaking and escaping the crowds.
Seaside brunching
To really live like a local in Manly, you need to brunch. Whether you’re after the perfect flat white, avo on toast or something sweet, the local spots have you covered. From cafes right by the ocean like The Pantry, Cibaria, The Bower, Bella Vista, The Boathouse and Ripples at Little Manly or you’re looking for a cosy spot like Fika or Noon, it’s the best way to start your day.
For those who love a bottomless brunch, book in at Manly Pavilion, Insitu, Shore Beach Club and Miami Rice. These are just a few of the amazing cafes in Manly – find one that suits your taste.
Shop til you drop
When it comes to shopping, Manly offers a mix of unique boutiques, mainstream stores and hidden gems. Whether you’re on the lookout for swimwear, quirky gifts or vintage finds, Manly is a must-visit for those looking to shop.
The boutiques are full of laidback and effortless styles that fit right in with Manly’s vibe – take a look at This and That Boutique, Funky & Green, Budgy Smuggler, Golden Breed and Okanui to get started.
For vintage lovers and bargain hunters, Manly’s op shops and consignments stores are treasure troves ready to be discovered! Try Op for Change, Reseller and Venla.
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a weekend, you can’t miss Manly Markets held every Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere with a huge variety of stalls selling everything from handcrafted jewellery, original art and vintage apparel. On Sundays, you’ll also see fruit, vegetable and flower markets plus stalls selling sourdough loaves, bagels and more. This is just the beginning, explore other great shopping options in Manly.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun, browsing boutiques or enjoying a long lazy brunch, remember to relax and take it all in like a true Manly local. Thinking of staying a little longer? Read more for tips on where to stay, eat and explore.