Manly Beach – the best activities to do

When you think of beaches in Sydney Australia, the most famous one is Bondi Beach. But did you know that there are over 100 beaches that line Sydney Harbour and it’s coastline?

One of these iconic beaches is Manly. Manly has been voted as one of the ‘Best of the best beaches’ in the world. Check out the full award winning 2024 list here.

Here are the best activities to do in Manly beach.

Manly harbour, Manly New South Wales Australia

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The Corso

The Corso is a short walk from the Ferry Terminal. If you are heading to the beach, you’ll walk through the Corso on the way.

It was originally a boardwalk connecting the harbour with the beach. Here are some activities you can do while there.

Shopping

The Corso is the main shopping strip. Full of beach wear shops, boutiques and other shops, its the perfect place for a leisurely stroll while doing some shopping. Forgot to bring your swimming gear for the beach? No problem. You’ll find something to buy in one of the many beach shops dotted along the Corso.

Markets

Alternatively, another shopping option in the Corso is the markets. They are held every weekend and you’ll find homemade goods, unique one of kind items and more while browsing. Definitely worth a visit.

Dining

Feeling a bit hungry after all that shopping? You’re in for a treat. Many dining options are available along the Corso catering to every taste.

If you love seafood, check out a popular seafood café in the Corso- Manly Ocean Foods where you can get the most delicious, mouth-watering barramundi and other fish varieties.

Manly Beach

Manly Beach in the Northern suburbs, is about 15 kilometres from Sydney. Here are some activities to get involved in.

Manly Beach, Manly New South Wales Australia

Swimming

For swimming, there are three sections of Manly Beach to choose from – Queenscliff, North Steyne and South Steyne. Some swimming spots are patrolled by surf life saving guards. However, if you go down to the rock pools, you’ll need to be careful as these areas are not patrolled.

Manly beach rock pools, Manly New South Wales Australia

Surfing

Want to learn to surf? Manly beach is the place to be. There are daily surfing lessons for beginner surfers through to intermediate level. You can learn in a group, have a private surf lesson or do advanced training.

Walking

With Manly Beach stretching over three kilometres, you have plenty of room for a walk along the promenade. If you are feeling energetic, why not visit all three sections of the beach.

There are also walking groups who meet weekly if you want company while exercising.

People watching

There are plenty of opportunities to find a nice spot along the promenade to sit and people watch. Many international tourists and travellers visit Manly Beach so why not buy a seafood lunch, grab a seat and watch the world go by? A interesting way to enjoy a nice Manly afternoon.

Here are some more activity ideas.



How to get to Manly

The best way to get to Manly Beach is by ferry from Sydney. Regular ferries leave Circular Quay in Sydney city centre. If you catch an express one, you’ll be in Manly in 20-30 minutes.

Manly Ferry

Ferry info


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