Best Outdoor Activities in Manly

"Shelly Beach is secluded, quaint and one of the go-to getaway Sydney beaches for beachcombers craving some relaxation without any hassle. This is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive in Sydney, thanks to its clear, flat water and easy shore-to-sea accessibility. Divers often spot the site’s sunken motorcycle, weedy sea dragons, cuttlefish and even dusky whaler sharks."

"Exotic fish, weedy sea dragons and even a mystical sunken motorcycle reside beneath the turquoise waters of Sydney’s Shelly Beach. This secluded marine reserve is a favourite of snorkelers, scuba divers and day-trippers looking for a tranquil picnic destination due to its calm water and surrounding natural bushland."

"In Manly, walk down the palm tree-lined Corso, hit the promenade on the beach for an ice-cream, walk around to picturesque Shelly Beach, or grab a cold beer at Manly Wharf Hotel. Time your return ferry trip back to the Quay to coincide with sunset behind the harbour bridge."

"Dog-friendly Rouse Hill Regional Park is great for a picnic or barbecue. There is a lot to do; head to the playground, go bike riding, or take a stroll down to Second Ponds Creek."

"Bondi to Bronte walk – a must do when you visit Australia Catch the ferry to Manly – a cheap way to experience beautiful Sydney Harbour with stunning views of the city is to catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and back. In Manly, walk down the palm tree-lined Corso towards the beach for an ice-cream, walk around to picturesque Shelly Beach, or grab a cold beer at Manly Wharf Hotel. Time your return ferry trip back to the Quay to coincide with the sunset behind the harbour bridge."

"Little Manly Beach in Sydney Harbour is an ideal hangout for families with kids of all ages. The water is calm, clean, and there are plenty of grass areas to roam around. When the little ones are done splashing and swimming, they can head over to the playground areas for even more active excitement."

"Another Eastern Suburbs haunt, SUSHIGOI in Coogee has a well-earned reputation for its fresh array of innovative creations. A chic eatery with a great selection of plates, you can expect all your favourites circling the busy train. The shark fin and abalone salad boats are perfect for the adventurous eater."

"With the shimmery interior foretelling the bright food adventure you’re about to embark on, you can expect nothing less than top quality service and taste from Busshari. Some of their definite must-tries include the Wagyu Beef Sizzling Tobanyaki, Seaweed and Tofu Salad and Karaage Chicken on Harusame Noodle Nest. They also have an impressive list of sushi and sashimi as well as a selection of noodles and lightly battered dishes all well worth a try."

"From the cobbled laneways of The Rocks to the swish foreshore playground that is Barangaroo, our city streets are recognisable to — and frequented by — tourists and locals alike. And when it comes to shopping, the CBD delivers something for everyone (and every budget). But navigating past the hotspots to undercover the hidden gems isn't as easy as it might seem."

"The Pitt Street Mall is located in the middle of Sydney’s bustling central business district. It is right next to Sydney Tower Westfields and is one of Australia’s busiest shopping precinct. The pedestrian mall fits in just two city blocks, but is home to more than 600 specialty stores, as well as individual shopping centres and arcades."

"Perfect for some brand shopping, as well as some souvenirs, this place gives the true vibe of the city. Buzzing with locals and tourists, it is a fun place to visit. You may even get to be audience to some great street artists here."

"If you’re looking for a one-stop shopping destination in Sydney, Westfield Hornsby is the place to go. Located in the heart of the North Shore, it is easily accessible from the Sydney CBD. Hornsby Westfield..."

"Named after William Bradley, a Royal Navy officer who participated in the First Fleet to Australia, Bradleys Head is quite a fascinating place to visit. The first thing you’ll notice is the huge mast that stands tall and proud at the edge of the cliff, overlooking Sydney Harbour. The mast was the foremast of HMAS Sydney, a light cruiser that was broken up on Cockatoo Island in 1929."

"The trail continues past Athol Bay and arrives at Bradleys Head, a unique and historical spot in Sydney Harbour National Park. The first thing you will notice is the huge mast standing tall and proud at the edge of the cliff, overlooking the Harbour. This used to be the foremast of HMAS Sydney, a light cruiser that was broken up on Cockatoo Island in 1929."

"Far less popular than the touristy Bondi to Coogee hike, the Spit to Manly Walk is a quieter alternative with more natural busy and varied views. A stunning day hike along the North Sydney harbor coastline that weaves its way through a mix of lush bushland and scenic harbourside trails with secluded beaches, indigenous rock carvings, and panoramic lookouts along the way. You can hike the 10km (6.2 miles) trail in 3.5 hours in a hurry, but I recommend you take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds."

"If you fancy stretching your legs, the walk from Manly to Spit Bridge is a pleasant 2-3 hour coastal walk with amazing views over the ocean. Catch the ferry to Manly harbour and head round the coast – make sure not to miss the ancient aboriginal carvings along the way. When it comes to free things to do in Sydney, this is one of the most popular for good reason."