Skip to main content
View cart (0 items)

There’s something special about Manly. Maybe it’s the endless ocean views, the golden sand between your toes or the laidback energy that makes you feel like you’re on holidays – even if you’re just there for the day.

While there is so much to do, eat, drink and see on land, Manly really comes into its own on the water. From stand-up paddle boarding to snorkelling aquatic reserves, there’s so many ways to get wet, wild or wonderfully relaxed in Manly.

Snorkel beneath the surface

Ecotreasures Manly

Grab your flippers – it’s time to explore what’s below the surface. Manly is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in Sydney including Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve at Shelly Beach, a safe haven for over 160 species of marine life. Hire your own gear or jump on a tour with EcoTreasures or Snorkelling Shelly Beach with expert local guides.

SUP the coastline

Flow mOcean

There’s nothing better than cruising along on a stand-up paddle board around Manly Cove and making your way over to secret beaches like Quarantine Beach at The Q Station – you can reward your hard work with a pastry and coffee at their café.

For something a bit different, book in a stand-up paddleboarding yoga class with Flow mOcean or grab some friends and book SUPball, a combination of netball, water polo, lacrosse and rugby with Manly Kayak Centre.

Kayak in calm

Manly Kayak Centre

Launch from West Esplanade (west of Manly Wharf) or join a guided tour with Manly Kayak Centre to explore the coastline from a whole new perspective. Pack some snacks and have a picnic at Store Beach.

Take the plunge

You can’t talk about Manly without mentioning its legendary swim spots. Manly Beach is consistently voted Australia’s best beach by TripAdvisor and there are plenty of other options too such as Shelly Beach, Delwood, Fairlight, Reef Beach, Little Manly and many more, just a stroll away. If you’re swimming at Manly Beach, remember to stay between the red and yellow flags and listen to lifeguards.

Catch a wave (or learn to)

Manly Beach is a World Surfing Reserve and a great place to hop on a board and enjoy the famous surf break.

If you want to learn to surf, the friendly staff at Manly Surf School will have you standing up before the end of your lesson. If you are an experienced surfer and if you have left your board at home, hire one from Manly Surfboards.

And after all that, you’ll be hungry and thirsty. Explore Manly’s Corso and surrounding laneways, where you’ll find the best restaurants, cafes and bars to enjoy.