16 Iconic Things To Do In Manly

If you’re after the quintessential Sydney coastal experience, Manly is the place to be.

Manly’s golden sands, secret beaches and excellent surfing conditions make it irresistible to locals and international visitors alike. With a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, this world-renowned destination has got something for everyone. Food enthusiasts are drawn to a culinary scene that’s as diverse and captivating as the coastal views. Prefer the outdoors? There’s a wealth of options for those who love coastal walks, water activities and people-watching by the water. It’s time to drift along with the sea breeze, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and keep reading to discover what to see and do while soaking up this vibrant, lively place.

1. Catch the Manly ferry

The best way to begin an adventure to Manly is to catch the iconic ferry from Circular Quay. On the journey, you’ll see stunning views of Sydney Harbour, an expansive panorama of the Sydney skyline, snippets of maritime history and secret hidden beaches. Catching the ferry is considered an iconic Sydney attraction.

Sydney Ferries passing through Sydney Harbour — Hop on the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Discover Q Station

The heritage-listed Q Station , formerly known as the Quarantine Station, is regularly considered one of the best things to do in Sydney. The unique site, originally picked for its isolation, first opened as a quarantine facility for incoming ships to prevent the spread of contagious diseases, particularly with the cholera pandemic in mid-1800s Europe.

an aerial view of Q Station, Manly — Q Station offers luxe accommodation on the shores of Sydney Harbour in Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

Now part of the Sydney Harbour National Park, Q Station offers a wealth of things for visitors to do. There is a range of tours to join: history tours, after-dark ghost tours, and wildlife tours. There are multiple dining options on-site, from casual snacks at the Wharf Cafe and Bar to fine dining at the Boilerhouse Kitchen and Bar.

Ghost tours at Manly Q Station — Get spooked after dark on a Q Station ghost tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Bike ride through Manly

Manly offers an extensive range of bike tracks and cycleways that will suit both beginners to more experienced cyclists, and these let you take in Manly’s beautiful coastal vistas and natural scenery.

a father and son cycling along Manly Beach — Start your day right by cycling along Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

You can elect to take yourself on self-guided tours by hiring from Manly Bikes , or you might prefer to join a guided tour, like with Bonza Bike Tours .

Bonza Bike Tours experience in Manly — Explore the Northern Beaches with Bonza Bike Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

Popular places to cycle include North Head, and around Manly Dam, or another option is to begin at Manly and cycle along tracks that will take you further into the Northern Beaches.

Women cycling aroud Manly Dam — Swap the beach for Manly Dam and explore more of the region by bike. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Surf at one of Manly’s beaches

Manly’s iconic beaches have earned themselves the reputation of being a surfing haven and the popular surfing culture means that out in the waves you’ll find a combination of confident surfers and those trying it out for the first time.

surfing at Manly Beach — Hit the waves at Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Manly Surf School offers adult and kids group lessons right on Manly’s main beach. Surfing conditions can change quickly, so check local surf reports and be aware of surf safety before heading out.

surfers hitting the beach at Manly SurfSchool — Learn to surf with Manly Surf School. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Visit the Manly Art Gallery and Museum

Established in 1930, the Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M) is the oldest metropolitan-based regional gallery in NSW. The Design shop is worth popping into, and features the work of local Australian artists and designers.

two people talking while browsing through artworks at Manly Art Gallery and Museum — Browse through diverse artworks at the Manly Art Gallery and Museum. (Image: Karen Watson)

Head here to see innovative exhibitions, Australian art and ceramics, and cultural programs. They also offer a range of workshops and drawing classes.

the view of Manly Wharf from Manly Art Gallery and Museum — The gallery is a stone’s throw away from Manly Wharf. (Image: Leila Jeffreys)

MAG&M is within walking distance of Manly Wharf and, good news, general admission is free. Further along in Freshwater, you’ll find the Aboriginal Heritage Office, where you can visit the cultural and heritage displays at the museum and Keeping Place.

6. Kayak Manly waters

Manly’s stunning coastal scenery and accessible waterways make it an excellent destination for kayaking. Not only does it allow for fresh perspectives when looking up from the water at the cliffs and rocks on the shoreline, but there are plenty of opportunities for close encounters with marine wildlife.

kayaking at Manly Beach — Go kayaking along the rocky shoreline of Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are several places for kayak hire, including Manly Kayak Centre at Q station. From here, you have the flexibility to visit Store Beach – not only is Store Beach one of the best secret beaches to visit in Australia but it is only accessible by Kayak. As with all water sports, it’s important to check the weather and tidal conditions before setting out.

kayaks lined up on the shore in Manly — There are several spots by the water for kayak hire. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Shop at Manly’s weekend market

Manly markets are open every Saturday and Sunday and can be found just off the main beach in the heart of Manly, along the Corso and Sydney Road.

people shopping at the Manly weekend market — Shop your way around the Manly markets.

Wander through the market stalls with a coffee in hand and you’ll find a range of artisanal products from emerging artists and designers, vintage clothing, delicious food stalls and live music.

stalls line up along Manly weekend market — Browse through the stalls that feature artisanal products.

On Sundays, Manly Fresh Produce Market showcases the best fresh produce directly from farmers and food providores across the state.

stalls line up along the Manly weekend market on a sunny day — Experience Manly’s weekend market scene.

8. Swim at the many beaches (and play beach volleyball)

One of the best parts about Sydney life is cooling off in the ocean on a long, hot day. Manly boasts not only the iconic Manly Beach – made up of three sections: Queenscliff, North Steyne and South Steyne – but also neighbouring coves and smaller beaches, each possessing a distinctive charm, that makes it a dream destination for taking a refreshing plunge.

Views of Manly Beach — Prioritise a dip in Manly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s quieter Little Manly Beach, family-friendly Manly Cove, picturesque Fairlight Beach, crystal-clear Quarantine Beach and hidden gem Store Beach. And don’t forget Collins Flat Beach. Splashed at all of Manly’s beaches? Check out our must-read guide to Sydney beaches to visit.

an aerial view of Quarantine Beach, Manly — Bask in the sun at Quarantine Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Soak up Manly’s cafe scene

Manly’s dynamic and bustling cafe culture means that visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to coffee here. Not only that, there’s a cacophony of hearty breakfasts, flaky pastries, cosy and inviting spaces and a passion for sustainability to guarantee a good time. There are so many cafes to start the day at, which can be found tucked away down Manly alleyways or right by the water with gorgeous water views.

Croissants at Rollers Bakehouse in Manly — Rollers Bakehouse is one of the many cafe spots in Manly.

10. Attempt a bullseye at Kiss My Axe

The popularity of Indoor axe-throwing has been gaining momentum, so why not check out Kiss My Axe in Brookvale, just around the corner from Manly? With a licensed venue, expert staff on hand to help, and a high-energy vibe, the stars are aligned to have an axe-ceptional time. They have packages for large and small groups, a two for Tuesdays axe throwing special, and glow darts also on offer.

players throwing axes at Kiss My Axe Brookvale — Try your luck at Kiss My Axe.

11. Tour Manly’s breweries

Touring the breweries in Manly and surrounds isn’t just a journey through hops and malt, it is a chance to celebrate the craftsmanship and art of brewing. Explore the breweries in the area and discover authenticity, innovation and excellence.

two people enjoying beers at the 4 Pines Brewing Co. TruckBar, Brookvale — Start a brewery tour of Manly at 4 Pines BrewPub. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start off in Manly at the 4 Pines BrewPub , make your way up to Manly Vale and stop off at Quakers Hat Brewing . End your crawl in Brookvale and enjoy the tours, live music and great food at Bucketty’s Brewing Co. , Dad & Dave’s Brewing , and 7th Day Brewery .

If you lean towards spirits over beer, head over to Manly Spirits Co . You’ll discover Australian premium spirits created using artisanal methods in their distillery, like award-winning artisan gin, as well as vodka and whisky. Want more than a tour? They also offer a cocktail masterclass.

a gin distillery tour and tasting experience at ManlySpirits Co. Distillery, Brookvale — Sample award-winning artisan gins at Manly Spirits Co. (Image: Destination NSW)

12. Explore North Head Sanctuary

North Head, with its dramatic cliffs and network of walking tracks, is a must-visit destination in Manly. Located on the land of the Gayemagal people, you’ll find stunning natural beauty, sweeping panoramic views and snapshots of history with the remnants of the Second World War military fortifications.

There’s so much to do here – join one of the many Harbour Trust run tours to hear about the North Fort or the Third Quarantine Cemetery, learn more about the local flora and fauna by visiting the North Head Sanctuary Foundation’s visitor centre, and tie up your shoelaces as there’s over 10 kilometres of walking tracks to explore. To finish your visit, grab a bite at one of the two spots on site: Bella Vista Cafe or the Yorky Coffee Caravan.

an aerial view of North Head, Sydney Harbour National Park — Catch sweeping ocean views as you explore North Head. (Image: John Spencer/DCCEEW)

13. Manly Dam

Manly Dam, also known as Manly Warringah War Memorial Park, is a picturesque reservoir and popular recreational area, hemmed in by lush bushland. There is a network of walks and trails to choose from.

the Manly Dam surrounded by lush greenery — The Heritage-listed Manly Dam extends to a freshwater lake. (Image: Northern Beaches Council)

The most popular is the park circuit track, which is 7.3 kilometres long and takes around three hours to complete – along the way you’ll pass waterfalls, rockpools, and local wildlife. There are shorter walks available too, that vary in distance and difficulty. Gulgadya Muru Aboriginal Self-Guided Walk is a circuit track that educates about Aboriginal culture, and you can see rock engravings and sites with axe grinding grooves and other artefacts.

kayaking in Manly Dam — There’s a designated section in Manly Reservoir for kayaking and fishing. (Image: Northern Beaches Council)

Other activities include mountain biking, wild swimming in designated areas, fishing, wallaby spotting and waterskiing. While dogs are permitted on leash on the tracks in the bushland, they’re not allowed elsewhere in the bushland or at the picnic areas. Something that surprises people is that the outdoor picnic tables need to be booked and paid for in advance via the Northern Beaches Council website.

14. Walk along to Shelly Beach

Coastal gem Shelly Beach is part of Cabbage Tree Bay, an aquatic reserve that protects marine wildlife.

a school of fish swimming in the waters of Shelly Beach, Cabbage Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Discover abundant marine life in Cabbage Bay Aquatic Reserve. (Image: Destination NSW)

While there is street parking within walking distance of the shore, to really appreciate how captivating the area is, the best way to visit Shelly Beach is by leisurely walking the 15 minutes or so along the coastal one-kilometre path from the main Manly drag.

an aerial view of the Shelly Beach and the Cabbage TreeBay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Shelly Beach is renowned for its beautiful cove. (Image: Destination NSW)

Snorkelling here is thought to be one of the best snorkelling spots in Sydney.

a local Eastern Blue Groper in Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Spot captivating creatures beneath the waters like this Eastern Blue Groper. (Image: Destination NSW)

Along the walk you will pass the charming Fairy Bower rock pool, considered one of the best Sydney pools in the city.

people enjoying the day in the Fairy Bower Ocean Pool,Manly — Cool off at Fairy Bower Ocean Pool on the short walk from Manly Wharf to Shelly Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. Spit to Manly walk

The popular Spit to Manly Walk is a breathtaking 10-kilometre scenic track that winds from the Spit Bridge towards North Head, alongside Sydney’s stunning harbour beaches.

walking along Spit Bridge to Manly with scenic views across Sydney Harbour — Journey the scenic coastal route from Spit Bridge to Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

It forms part of the great Bondi to Manly walk, and it’s an opportunity to totally immerse yourself in nature, walking through bushland and by pristine waters. Pack your swimmers so you can jump into one of the many stunning beaches along the way, like Clontarf Reserve Beach, Castle Rock Beach, Reef Beach and Forty Baskets Beach.

a couple walking an enjoying coastal views of SydneyHarbour from Dobroyd Head, Balgowlah Heights — Discover breathtaking views along this Manly walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

A track highlight is the Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site at Dobroyd Head, where you’re able to see rock engravings of a giant kangaroo, several small fish, boomerangs, and a whale – just make sure you stay on the boardwalk to protect the site.

It is important to note that it is a moderate track and challenging at times, and you’ll also need to come prepared with enough water as water stations are limited.

friends climbing up Spit Bridge to Manly via Clontarf Beach — Navigate Spit Bridge to Manly via Clontarf Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

16. Enjoy an afternoon or evening drink at Manly’s bars

Manly has a lively drinking scene that perfectly complements its laid-back and beachy good-time vibes, with many venues offering outdoor seating options to soak in the sun and sound of crashing waves.

There’s a mix of classic pubs, trendy cocktail bars and industrial breweries, so you’ll always find a place for any occasion – to celebrate, catch up with friends, enjoy live music or simply relax and unwind.

Keep your eyes peeled not just for happy hour deals, but see if you can spot the hidden doorway to the underground speakeasy the Cumberland, one of 15 hidden bars in Sydney you need to discover. If drinking by the beach is something you love to do, consider checking out other fantastic beach bars around Australia.

a hand holding a cocktail at Manly Wharf Hotel — Come by the Manly Wharf Hotel for a sundowner. (Image: Destination NSW)

The heavens take centre stage at this Outback NSW glamping lodge.

Crane your neck. Look up. If it’s nighttime in a major Australian city, you might see a faint dusting of stars. Now imagine yourself out in the bush. Here, those stars aren’t just scattered dots – instead, they’re smudged across the sky in endless, glittering streaks. Welcome to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit , a new glamping lodge in one of the most picturesque corners of outback NSW.

Between its eight stargazing tents, Gilay Guest Lounge, and shared tales of the Dreamtime night sky, this retreat is designed to exist in harmony with the breathtaking lake and surrounding landscape. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.

Bathed in warm light, a couple watches the sun dip beyond the horizon. — Watch the sky melt into magic at Wilderluxe.

Getting to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit is in the NSW Northern Tablelands, bordered by the Great Dividing Range. The lake itself is hard to miss: this mammoth body of water is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour.

Just 40 minutes from Tamworth and close to Gunnedah, it’s on the inland route between Sydney and Byron Bay. Drive or take one of the daily flights to Tamworth’s airport.

Aerial view of Wilderluxe. — Let vast waters and towering ranges set the scene for your escape.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit rooms

Don’t settle for a paltry room when you can sleep directly under the cosmos. Wilderluxe offers eight domed ‘Star Tents’ , all named after Aboriginal sky stories – like Djirri Djirri, the sacred messenger bird, Baiame, the Sky Father and great creator, and Dhinawan, the Emu in the Sky constellation.

On a clear night, use your tent’s retractable roof for gazing above or wander to the outdoor bathtub on your private deck to soak under the night sky. No need to go anywhere. You can stay put come evening with a kitchenette inside and a gas barbecue on the deck.

A couple gazes up at a sky ablaze with stars at Wilderluxe. — Sleep beneath the stars.

Style and character

When it comes to aesthetics, Wilderluxe Lake Keepit stays on trend. The encampment blends with its surroundings, building up layers of minimalist visuals that mirror the ever-changing curves of the water.

Earthy tones, natural materials and timber finishes also anchor the retreat in its bushland surrounds. It’s enough to deepen the sense of calm you’ll experience as you drive off-grid, and this is only heightened as you spot kangaroos grazing at dawn or hear the chatter of native birds by the lake.

The dreamy sunset at Wilderluxe. — Go off-grid in style at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit dining

‘Dinner and a show’ hits differently with the property’s Big Sky dinner experience . Hosted in the Gilay Lounge, enjoy complimentary drinks and a grazing table with the host, followed by a screening of Big Sky Dreaming, a film produced exclusively for Wilderluxe guests in which Kamilaroi storyteller Uncle Len Waters narrates tales of the Dreaming above.

Once your imagination has been fed, it’s time to take a seat fireside for a glass of Australian port and a serving of s’mores.

Keen to explore the wider area? Staff can provide barbecue and picnic hampers, stuffed with regional meats, cheeses and organic local fare.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit facilities

While you could very well spend all your time in your tent, sometimes it’s time to hit pause on the celestial show. Instead, make your way up to the Gilay Guest Lounge, where you can relax on the deck overlooking the lake or the outdoor fire pits. It’s a great way to unwind and clink glasses with other stargazers.

The Gilay Lounge with the view of the lake. — Unwind by the fire and raise a glass at Gilay Lounge.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit experiences

No need to turn nocturnal; when the sun rises, there are still plenty of ways to touch the sky.

Lake Keepit hosted the 2020 Women’s World Gliding Championships, and it’s one of the best places in Australia to stretch your wings. The local Soaring Club operates year-round, meaning you can book a gliding experience any day of the year – or opt for a scenic flight to take in the vast beauty from above.

Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? There are plenty of walking and cycling trails in and around the area. Luckily, bikes are part of the Wilderluxe package. All you have to do is ask a staff member for their favourite route, throw a picnic onto the back and cycle off into the great beyond.

Alternatively, nab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak and head out onto the lake. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, borrow a fishing rod and try your chances.

A person kayaking through serene waters. — Paddle into peace.

The details

A two-night minimum twin-share accommodation package includes Big Sky dinner and drinks experience, plus daily continental breakfast. As well as access to leisure equipment including mountain bikes, kayaks, SUPs and fishing gear.

The interiors of the glamping tent. — Let nature restore you, while luxury takes care of the rest.

Start planning your outback glamping adventure at wilderluxe.com.au.