14 Manly Beaches You Didn’t Know Existed (Until Now)
Think Manly Only Has One Beach? Think Again.
Most people step off the ferry, walk straight through the Corso, and land on Manly Beach like it’s the one and only.
And yes, it’s iconic. But what if I told you that tucked around the headlands, hidden in leafy corners, and stretched along the harbour are fourteen different beaches? Some are quiet little coves where the only sound is the water lapping at the shore. Others are local favourites for sunrise swims, afternoon picnics, or a sneaky mid-week snorkel.
This guide isn’t just about ticking off locations – it’s about noticing what most people walk straight past. It’s about finding your version of calm, adventure, or connection on this stretch of coastline that’s often underestimated. Whether you’re here for the surf, a stroll, or to simply feel the sun on your skin, Manly has a beach that matches your mood.
Let’s start with the one you probably already know… and go from there.
Ocean Beaches
Manly Beach
North Steyne Beach
Queenscliff Beach
Shelly Beach
Fairy Bower Beach
Harbour Beaches
Little Manly Beach
Collins Flat Beach
Store Beach
Quarantine Beach
Forty Baskets Beach
Walkable Beaches Along the Foreshore
East Esplanade Beach (Manly Cove)
Delwood Beach
West Esplanade Beach
Fairlight Beach
1. Manly Beach
The iconic beach that started it all – and still delivers
Where to Find It
Manly Beach sits on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and runs from South Steyne (just past The Corso) up to North Steyne and Queenscliff. If you’re arriving by ferry, it’s an easy 5-minute walk straight up The Corso to the sand. Paid parking is available in council car parks along South Steyne and nearby side streets, but it fills up fast, especially on sunny weekends.
Why Visit
This is the beach that put Manly on the map. It’s lively and iconic, with surfers catching early waves, swimmers clocking laps before work, and tourists stepping straight off the ferry into beach mode. But even with all the energy, there’s still room to move. The beach is wide, the promenade is breezy, and there’s a surprising sense of space once you’ve found your spot.
Whether you’re here for an hour or a whole day, Manly Beach offers a front-row seat to Sydney’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. The light hits just right in the morning, the water sparkles all day, and there’s something about watching the surf that helps everything else slow down.
What You’ll Find
- Plenty of space to swim, surf, or sit – with different sections of the beach suited to different activities.
- Patrolled swimming areas at South Steyne and North Steyne, making it a safe option for families and casual swimmers.
- Public toilets, change rooms, and showers located at various points along the promenade.
- A lively esplanade with cafes, restaurants, ice cream shops, and beachy boutiques just across the road.
- Regular surf schools and beach events, particularly in summer and school holidays.
Things to Do
- Go for a sunrise swim or walk along the beach – it’s one of the best times to experience the coast without the crowds.
- Grab takeaway and sit on the promenade wall to watch the surf and soak up the atmosphere.
- Head north toward Queenscliff for a quieter patch of sand or to explore the lagoon area.
- Book a surf lesson, rent a board, or just watch the locals do their thing from the comfort of your towel.
Good to Know
- Manly Beach is busiest between 10am and 4pm – mornings and late afternoons are usually quieter and cooler.
- Shade is limited on the sand, so bring a beach umbrella or shelter if you plan to stay for a while.
- South Steyne is best for beginner swimmers, while the northern end tends to be better for surfing.
- The beach is wheelchair accessible via ramps near The Corso and the Surf Pavilion, with beach wheelchairs available to borrow through the council.
2. North Steyne Beach
The quieter stretch where the locals hang out and catch waves.
Where to Find It
North Steyne Beach runs directly north of Manly Beach, starting around Raglan Street and continuing up to the Queenscliff lagoon. You can walk here from Manly Wharf in under 10 minutes along the beachfront promenade. Parking is available near the North Steyne Surf Club or in nearby side streets, though it’s limited and tends to fill up by mid-morning on weekends.
Why Visit
If you like the vibe of Manly Beach but prefer a bit more breathing room, North Steyne delivers. It’s a favourite with locals, especially early risers and surfers who want space to move without the hustle. The beach has that same open, expansive feel — just with a slower rhythm and more of a community atmosphere.
It’s a great spot for a relaxed morning swim, a coffee on the sea wall, or a long walk without needing to dodge too many prams or beach umbrellas. It feels familiar and unfussy, like a beach that lets you just be.
What You’ll Find
- Reliable surf conditions that attract experienced locals and learners alike, with surf patrols active during peak periods.
- A more peaceful stretch of sand compared to central Manly, offering space to stretch out or walk undisturbed along the shoreline.
- Public toilets and change rooms conveniently located at the North Steyne Surf Club building.
- A few grassy patches and benches behind the promenade where you can sit in the shade and take in the view.
- Quick access to local cafes and takeaways tucked behind the beach if you’re after a coffee, snack, or post-swim smoothie.
Things to Do
- Watch the surf from the promenade or bring a board and join in — it’s a popular training ground for local surf schools and confident riders alike.
- Take a long, uninterrupted walk from Queenscliff to South Steyne and soak up the changing scenery along the beach.
- Roll out a towel and settle in for a slower kind of beach day, away from the tourist foot traffic near the ferry.
- Enjoy the soft early light or late afternoon calm — it’s a great spot for writing, reflecting, or simply watching the waves roll in.
Good to Know
- North Steyne is generally quieter than Manly Beach, especially during the week or early in the day.
- The area around the surf club has the best facilities, including showers, bins, and shaded seating.
- Surf conditions can be strong – always swim between the flags if they’re up, and avoid unpatrolled sections if unsure.
- This is a great spot for photographers who want wide, open beachscapes without the constant crowd.
Find out more about North Steyne Beach
3. Queenscliff Beach
Peaceful, spacious and just far enough from the buzz
Where to Find It
Queenscliff Beach sits at the northern end of the Manly coastline, beyond North Steyne and close to the mouth of the Queenscliff Lagoon. You can walk there in around 15 minutes from Manly Wharf along the beachfront promenade. There’s limited street parking nearby, and a small paid lot at the end of Bridge Road, but most people arrive on foot or bike.
Why Visit
If Manly Beach is the social hub and North Steyne is for surfers, Queenscliff is the spot you come to when you want space, stillness and a slower pace. It’s far enough from the Corso crowds that things feel calm, but still close enough that you can grab a coffee and walk it down without breaking a sweat. The views up the coast are wide and uninterrupted, and the beach tends to attract locals looking for a bit of peace.
It’s a great place to come if you like your beach days low-key. Families often settle here with buckets and umbrellas, and walkers pass by with sandy feet and takeaway cups. There’s room to breathe and not much pressure to do anything except enjoy the sun and the sound of the surf.
What You’ll Find
- A quieter stretch of sand with fewer people, even on busy days – perfect for relaxing or reading without distraction.
- Moderate surf with no flagged swimming area – better suited to confident swimmers or beach walkers.
- A natural headland at the northern end that creates a stunning backdrop for photos or reflective walks.
- Nearby access to the Manly Lagoon Reserve if you want to explore further inland or find a spot for a shaded picnic.
- Limited amenities directly on-site, but public toilets and taps can be found a short walk away at North Steyne or Lagoon Park.
Things to Do
- Enjoy a quiet beach walk with sweeping views and soft sand underfoot.
- Bring a book and settle into a relaxed beach day without the bustle of central Manly.
- Take photos of the cliffs and natural curves of the coastline – this area has some of the best light in the late afternoon.
- Walk the footbridge across the lagoon to explore parks and quieter paths on the other side.
Good to Know
- This beach is unpatrolled, so it’s best for confident swimmers or non-swimming visits.
- Bring everything you need for the day — there are no cafes or shops directly behind the beach.
- Great spot for a sunrise or sunset walk if you want to avoid the midday heat or crowds.
- Access is stroller-friendly via the promenade, but there are no formal ramps onto the sand.
4. Shelly Beach
Calm waters, coral colours and a peaceful escape from the surf
Where to Find It
Shelly Beach is tucked into the southern end of the Manly headland, just a short 10-minute walk from the main beach along the scenic Marine Parade. The walk itself is worth the trip – with ocean views, benches and even the occasional water dragon sunning itself on the rocks. There’s a small paid car park at Shelly Beach, or you can arrive by foot from Manly Wharf or the Corso.
Why Visit
If Manly Beach is about the waves, Shelly is all about the stillness. This protected marine reserve sits in a gentle curve that shields it from the swell, creating glassy, snorkel-friendly water and a totally different beach experience. It’s family-friendly, photogenic and ideal for a slower, more mindful kind of day by the sea.
With its turquoise shallows, rocky edges and fish darting through the reef, Shelly is perfect if you’re looking to swim without battling waves. It’s also the turnaround point for many morning walkers – and once you get here, you’ll see why people stop and stay awhile.
What You’ll Find
- Calm, protected waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkelling and floating – no waves, just a peaceful cove feel.
- A sandy beach backed by a grassy picnic area, complete with tables, barbecues and plenty of space to stretch out.
- Rocky areas at both ends that are great for exploring with kids or spotting marine life in the shallows.
- Toilets, showers and change facilities available near the car park for post-swim freshening up.
- Boathouse Shelly Beach café is just behind the sand – perfect for brunch, coffee or a cold drink in the shade.
Things to Do
- Pack a snorkel and explore the reef just offshore – it’s a protected marine reserve with loads of fish and clear water.
- Set up a picnic or barbecue in the grassy park area and make a whole afternoon of it.
- Walk the Marine Parade from Manly and enjoy the coastal views and public art installations along the way.
- Arrive early for a peaceful swim before the families and sunbakers settle in.
Good to Know
- Shelly is a popular spot on weekends and during holidays – early mornings and weekdays are more peaceful.
- The water is usually calm, but reef shoes can be handy around the rocks for extra grip and comfort.
- The small car park fills quickly – walking in from Manly is often easier and more scenic.
- This is a great beach for kids or anyone who prefers calm, easy-entry swimming without strong waves.
5. Fairy Bower Beach
Small but soulful – a stop worth slowing down for
Where to Find It
Fairy Bower Beach is that little patch of calm you’ll find along the coastal walk between Manly and Shelly. Head south from Manly Surf Pavilion and you’ll be there in about five minutes. It sits quietly next to the Fairy Bower Ocean Pool, just below Marine Parade. There’s no direct parking here – and honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s the kind of place you stumble across on foot, not one you drive straight to.
Why Visit
This isn’t a beach you come to for a big day out. It’s where you come to breathe. Fairy Bower is small – a sandy corner carved out between rock and reef – but it has a kind of energy that makes you want to pause. Maybe it’s the sea nymph sculptures just offshore, or the gentle lap of water in the ocean pool, or just the fact that it’s easy to miss unless you’re paying attention.
It’s also one of those rare spots that feels equally good at sunrise or mid-morning. Sit on the rocks. Watch snorkellers drift through the bay. Let the salt air do its thing. You won’t need much else.
What You’ll Find
- A narrow beach with soft sand and clear, calm water – perfect for a quick dip or simply sitting still.
- The beautiful Fairy Bower Ocean Pool right beside it – a local favourite for peaceful morning laps.
- Public benches above the beach where you can pause with a coffee and take it all in (even if you’re not planning to swim).
- Close-up views of the underwater reserve – it’s not unusual to spot fish just a few metres from shore.
- Plenty of photo-worthy details – especially in the early morning light when the rock textures and waterline glow.
Things to Do
- Swim in the ocean pool or dip your toes into the bay if you’re after something a little gentler than Manly or Shelly.
- Bring your camera or drone early – this spot gives you stunning aerial angles of the pool, walkway and reef.
- Take a moment on the benches above the beach – even five minutes here feels like a reset.
- Keep walking toward Shelly if you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, but don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to stay put.
Good to Know
- This beach disappears at high tide – check the tide times if you’re planning to stay a while on the sand.
- The ocean pool is open to everyone and usually calm, but there are no lifeguards.
- If you’re flying a drone, come early and keep your distance – this is a high foot-traffic area and part of a marine reserve.
- No public toilets directly here, but Shelly Beach and Manly both have full facilities just a short walk away.
Find out more about Fairy Bower Beach
6. Little Manly Beach
Calm, cosy, and the kind of beach that knows how to chill
Where to Find It
Little Manly Beach lives up to its name – it’s smaller, quieter, and tucked away just around the corner from the main action. You’ll find it on the harbour side of Manly, at the end of Stuart Street. If you’re walking from the wharf, it’s about 15 minutes through leafy backstreets or along the scenic harbour path. There’s a small car park nearby and a grassy reserve that makes it feel like a backyard with sea views.
Why Visit
If Manly Beach is the life of the party, Little Manly is the friend who invites you over for tea and doesn’t care if you’re wearing thongs and a rashie. It’s easygoing, friendly, and doesn’t demand anything from you. The water is calm, the crowds are few, and the vibe is very much: show up, plop down, and exhale.
This is one of the best spots in Manly for a lazy afternoon that turns into an unplanned picnic. Kids splash in the shallows, locals catch up over coffees from the kiosk, and if you forget your sunscreen, someone on the grass probably has a spare. It’s that kind of beach.
What You’ll Find
- A netted swimming enclosure with shallow, calm water – great for kids, cautious swimmers, or anyone still waking up.
- Toilets, showers and change rooms just behind the beach – all clean and easy to access.
- A grassy park with picnic tables, barbecues and shady trees that are basically begging for a long lunch or afternoon nap.
- A cute little kiosk that serves up proper coffee, ice cream, and toasties that somehow taste better with sand on your feet.
- Friendly, low-key locals who will give you a smile but also leave you alone to read your book in peace.
Things to Do
- Pack a towel and a good book – this is your spot for a guilt-free slow day.
- Bring the kids or the grandparents (or both) – the easy water access suits all ages.
- Grab a coffee from the kiosk and settle in under a tree while the world does its thing around you.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, keep walking around the harbour path toward Collins Flat or take the kayak out for a quiet paddle.
Good to Know
- This is one of the best harbour beaches in Manly for families – calm water, soft sand, and space to spread out.
- It’s protected from the swell, so you won’t get surf here – just lapping waves and the occasional curious fish.
- Drone flying isn’t ideal here due to the proximity to houses and families, but you can launch from the nearby point for harbour shots if you’re discreet and respectful.
- Gets morning sun and afternoon shade – ideal if you’re not keen on full sunbaking but still want that beachy feeling.
7. Collins Flat Beach
A secret cove with waterfall vibes and serious picnic potential
Where to Find It
Collins Flat Beach is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve found something no one else knows about. It’s tucked between Little Manly and Store Beach on the harbour side, and while it’s only a short walk from the road, it feels wonderfully remote. You can get there on foot via Collins Beach Road or Stuart Street, or if you’re feeling fancy, paddle in by kayak and make a quiet entrance from the water.
Why Visit
This beach is calm, tree-fringed and full of that “am I really still in Sydney?” energy. It’s the kind of place you bring someone when you want to impress them without making it obvious. There’s a tiny waterfall that trickles down the rocks after rain, smooth sand to stretch out on, and water so still it’s basically a natural mirror. It’s not flashy, but that’s exactly what makes it feel special.
It’s also an ideal spot for a picnic, a sneaky weekday swim, or a moment to just lie back and let your nervous system reset. You won’t find shops or buzz here – just stillness, birdsong and maybe the occasional dog trotting by like it owns the place.
What You’ll Find
- A wide, protected cove with soft sand and ultra-calm water – perfect for floating, wading or just dipping in slowly like a sea turtle on holiday.
- Tree cover around the beach for dappled shade if you’re not keen on full sun exposure all day long.
- A tiny freshwater waterfall trickling down the rocks at the western end – it’s small but oddly magical, especially after rain.
- Quiet, low traffic – you’ll mostly be sharing the space with locals, picnickers, and the occasional sea kayak group gliding by.
- No facilities here – so bring water, snacks and whatever else you need to stay comfortable.
Things to Do
- Pack a picnic and set up camp for a slow, screen-free afternoon under the trees.
- Bring a kayak or paddleboard and arrive from the water – it’s a peaceful glide across the harbour.
- Fly your drone early in the day to capture the surrounding cliffs, glassy harbour and secluded feel – just avoid low flights when others are around.
- Lie down, close your eyes and listen to the water – this place practically begs you to nap.
Good to Know
- There are no toilets, taps or bins – pack in, pack out, and leave no trace behind.
- Shade is limited once the sun climbs high – early visits are best if you want that golden glow without the sweat.
- The beach is accessible via a short bush path – not ideal for strollers or wheelchairs, but manageable for most walkers.
- Drone-friendly if flown responsibly – avoid busy times and stick to wide, overhead passes to preserve the peace.
8. Store Beach
No roads, no crowds – just you, a kayak, and the sound of water lapping the shore
Where to Find It
Store Beach is one of the only beaches in Manly you can’t walk to. You’ll find it tucked between Collins Flat and Quarantine Beach, but the only way to get there is by water. Paddle in from Manly Wharf or Little Manly (about 15–20 minutes depending on your arm power) and you’ll land on a stretch of sand that feels like it belongs in a movie – minus the soundtrack and with way better lighting.
Why Visit
This beach is for the seekers – the ones who want a bit of effort before the reward. Because when you arrive, it genuinely feels like you’ve left the city. No foot traffic. No shops. No background hum. Just the water, the bush behind you, and the occasional stingray drifting past like it’s doing laps.
If you’re looking for a beach where you can sit in the sand and hear your own thoughts (or maybe a podcast and a peanut butter sandwich), this is it. Come solo for some creative headspace, or bring a mate and call it a “meeting.” No one will know.
What You’ll Find
- A long, secluded beach backed by thick bushland – no buildings, no bins, no traffic noise. Just peace and a bit of sand squeak underfoot.
- Clear, shallow harbour water that’s ideal for swimming or simply floating like a sea cucumber with nowhere to be.
- Soft shade from the trees along the edge of the sand, especially if you arrive early or late in the day.
- No facilities of any kind – which is exactly why it feels untouched. Bring what you need and don’t expect a coffee cart.
- A gentle shoreline that’s easy to land on by kayak or paddleboard without any drama.
Things to Do
- Paddle over and claim your patch of beach – ideally with snacks and zero expectations.
- Swim, float, or just lie down and do that thing where you stare at clouds and forget what time it is.
- Fly your drone to capture just how cut-off and cinematic this little stretch of coastline really is – sweeping overhead shots look amazing here.
- Write, nap, meditate, snack, or all of the above – this is your off-grid moment (with full mobile reception, because… 2025).
Good to Know
- You can’t get here by foot – kayak or paddleboard is the go. Rentals are available near Manly Wharf if you don’t have your own.
- No toilets, taps, or rubbish bins – come prepared and take everything with you when you leave.
- The beach is popular with paddling locals and quiet-seekers – arrive early if you want to beat the mid-morning picnickers.
- This area is part of a protected reserve – keep your drone high and your impact low.
9. Quarantine Beach
Heritage vibes, harbour views and the best kind of quiet
Where to Find It
Quarantine Beach is tucked inside the grounds of Q Station at North Head – yes, the old quarantine hospital-turned-hotel-and-museum. You can reach it by walking through the Q Station precinct (public access is allowed), or paddle in by kayak if you’re coming from Store Beach or Manly Wharf. There’s no public parking right next to the beach, but you can walk down from the main Q Station car park or take the internal shuttle if you’re staying at the hotel.
Why Visit
This is one of those beaches that catches you off guard – not just because it’s beautiful, but because it’s wrapped in stories. For over 150 years, this was where travellers arrived to be isolated during outbreaks, and today it’s one of Manly’s calmest, most peaceful places to sit with a coffee and let the past meet the present.
The beach itself is small, calm and usually quiet. You’ve got the historic jetty, old hospital buildings in the background, and thick bush behind you. It’s a great mix of nature and narrative – perfect for a thoughtful solo visit or a low-key afternoon escape.
What You’ll Find
- A small, sandy cove protected from wind and swell – great for relaxed swimming and floating without dodging surfboards.
- The old Q Station wharf stretching into the harbour – incredibly photogenic, especially at golden hour.
- Picnic tables, benches and shady trees along the back of the beach if you want to stay off the sand.
- Cafés and toilets just up the hill inside Q Station – no need to rough it.
- A quiet, respectful energy – it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and listen.
Things to Do
- Swim in the calm water, then sit on the jetty steps and watch the boats drift by.
- Explore the historic Q Station buildings nearby – or book a ghost tour if that’s your thing.
- Fly your drone early in the day to capture the curve of the beach and the dramatic contrast between the wharf and the bushland.
- Bring a journal, a snack, and a towel – this is a great spot to spend a quiet hour or two by yourself.
Good to Know
- Access is via Q Station – public are welcome, but respect signage and hotel guests if you’re passing through.
- The beach is small and can get shady in the afternoon – great for escaping the midday heat.
- Drone flying is allowed, but keep your distance from the wharf and buildings, and be mindful of others.
- This beach has strong cultural and historical significance – it’s peaceful for a reason. Treat it with care.
10. Forty Baskets Beach
Family-friendly, kayak-accessible and just the right kind of chill
Where to Find It
Forty Baskets Beach sits along the Manly to Spit Bridge walk, nestled between Fairlight and Dobroyd Head on the harbour side. You can reach it by foot via the walking track, or by paddling in from Manly Wharf or Clontarf. There’s limited street parking nearby at Beatty Street or Gourlay Avenue, but most people arrive by kayak or as part of a scenic stroll.
Why Visit
Forty Baskets is one of those beaches that feels like a well-kept local secret — not hidden, exactly, but still somehow off the radar. It’s quiet, calm, and full of “bring the kids and let them run wild” energy. The harbour views are stunning, the water is gentle, and there’s enough grass, shade and space that you can settle in for a proper half-day without moving more than a few metres.
Despite the name, you won’t find any actual baskets (or at least not 40 of them), but you will find a netted swimming area, soft sand, and a vibe that says: stay a while. It’s especially good for families, relaxed meetups, and anyone who wants to dip their toes without fighting for towel space.
What You’ll Find
- A netted swimming enclosure with calm, shallow water – perfect for little ones, float sessions, or low-effort laps.
- Large grassy reserve with picnic tables, BBQs and shade – ideal for long lunches and barefoot games of cricket.
- Toilets and change facilities close to the beach – no need to rough it.
- A lovely spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard if you’re heading out for a harbour explore.
- Plenty of spots to sit quietly and just enjoy the view, especially midweek when things are extra peaceful.
Things to Do
- Swim in the calm water, then stretch out on the grass with a good book or a sandwich that tastes better outdoors.
- Fire up the BBQ and turn it into a full-blown picnic (bonus points if you bring fairy bread).
- Paddle in by kayak for a low-key beach landing and lunch break — it’s one of the easier spots to pull up.
- Fly your drone early to get sweeping views of the curve of the bay and the surrounding bushland — just be respectful of families and avoid busy times.
Good to Know
- This beach is on the walking trail, so you’ll see a mix of locals, hikers and the occasional jogger passing through.
- Popular on weekends, especially with families – come early if you want the pick of the shady spots.
- Facilities are basic but well-maintained – no café here, so bring your own snacks or picnic setup.
- Drone flying is best done from the headland nearby, giving you more space and perspective without crowding the beach.
11. East Esplanade Beach (Manly Cove)
First thing you see, last thing you expect — a swim spot hiding in plain sight
Where to Find It
East Esplanade Beach, often called Manly Cove by the locals, is the sandy stretch directly east of Manly Wharf. If you’re stepping off the ferry with a towel over your shoulder, this is the first beach you’ll see. No walking, no navigating — it’s right there waiting for you. There’s no designated parking here, but plenty of foot traffic and ferry access make it one of the easiest beaches in Sydney to reach without a car.
Why Visit
This beach doesn’t scream “destination” — and that’s what makes it so good. Most people walk straight past it on their way to Manly Beach or Shelly, but if you pause, you’ll find a little patch of calm that’s perfect for a quick dip or an impromptu picnic. It’s ideal if you’re short on time, travelling light, or just want to cool off before (or after) the ferry ride.
It’s not flashy, but it’s surprisingly peaceful. You’ve got the boats bobbing nearby, the sun hitting the water just right, and enough space to throw down a towel and pretend you planned this all along.
What You’ll Find
- Calm, harbour-facing water — no waves, no rips, just easy swimming with a view of the wharf and ferries coming and going.
- A netted swimming area that keeps it safe for kids and casual swimmers.
- Grassy patches and shaded trees lining the foreshore — ideal for sitting with fish and chips or a sneaky nap.
- Toilets, seating and drinking fountains along the Esplanade — everything you need without having to pack a beach bag.
- A front-row seat to ferry traffic, paddleboarders and sunset light bouncing off the harbour.
Things to Do
- Take a quick swim before hopping on the ferry — or reward yourself with one after a long day in the city.
- Sit under the trees with takeaway and watch the boats come and go — it’s more relaxing than it sounds.
- Use it as a starting point for the coastal walk to Fairlight or Shelly Beach.
- Bring a drone if you’re aiming for aerial harbour shots — but be aware of pedestrian traffic and ferry movements below.
Good to Know
- This beach can get busy with foot traffic, especially on weekends — go early for a quieter experience.
- Water is generally clean, but it’s a working harbour — not the best spot for long swims or snorkelling.
- Drone flying is possible but tricky — it’s a high-traffic pedestrian zone, so fly early and with caution.
- Perfect for families with prams or anyone looking for a no-fuss swim without leaving town centre.
12. West Esplanade Beach
A family favourite tucked between the ferry and Fairlight
Where to Find It
West Esplanade Beach sits directly west of Manly Wharf, just past Manly Pavilion and before you hit Delwood. You’ll find it right along the harbour walkway – a gentle, shady track that’s perfect for strollers, scooters, and slow walkers with sandy feet. There’s no car park directly at the beach, but it’s an easy walk from the wharf or surrounding streets. If you’re catching the ferry in with the kids, you’ll be swimming within five minutes of docking.
Why Visit
This beach is calm, welcoming, and incredibly easy – in the best possible way. With shallow water, gentle waves and a netted swimming enclosure, it’s ideal for families, beginner swimmers or anyone who wants a dip without dealing with surf. It’s the kind of place where parents can actually relax while kids splash happily in the shallows.
It’s also just a lovely spot to hang out. Sit under the trees with a book, wander down for a quick swim before dinner, or set up a picnic on the grass and call it a day well spent. If you’re after a no-fuss beach experience with a touch of charm, West Esplanade has you covered.
What You’ll Find
- A calm, netted swimming enclosure that’s safe for kids and easy to access from the sand or rocks.
- Shaded grassy areas and benches along the foreshore – perfect for picnics or pram-friendly pauses.
- Public toilets and showers just behind the beach, near Manly Pavilion – clean, simple, and close by.
- Soft sand with easy water entry – great for beach games, toddler paddling or a quiet float at high tide.
- Locals reading, chatting, and doing life by the water – it feels like a neighbourhood beach with open arms.
Things to Do
- Swim in the calm harbour water – ideal for confidence-building or cooling off on a hot afternoon.
- Spread out a towel under the trees and enjoy lunch with a view of the ferry coming and going.
- Stroll along the foreshore with an ice cream or takeaway coffee – it’s flat, easy and full of charm.
- If you fly a drone, capture the harbour curve and nearby Pavilion – just keep your distance from swimmers and the walking path.
Good to Know
- This is one of the best beaches in Manly for families – safe, accessible, and close to everything.
- The beach gets a good mix of sun and shade throughout the day – perfect if you’re avoiding full sun exposure.
- No surf here – just calm, protected harbour water that’s easy to relax in.
- Drone flying is allowed, but mornings are best – fewer people and beautiful soft light over the harbour.
13. Delwood Beach
Small, secluded and seriously underrated
Where to Find It
Delwood Beach is nestled along the coastal walk between East Esplanade and Fairlight Beach. If you’re walking from Manly Wharf toward Fairlight, you’ll spot a short set of steps leading down to this little slice of calm. There’s no car access and no signage shouting its name – which is part of why it stays so peaceful. Blink and you’ll miss it. Stop and you’ll be glad you did.
Why Visit
This is one of those blink-and-it’s-gone beaches, tucked away below the walkway and often overlooked by just about everyone. And honestly? That’s what makes it gold. If you like your beach days quiet, unhurried and free of background music or volleyball nets, Delwood is your vibe.
It’s small, yes – but there’s just enough sand to lay out a towel, and the water here is beautifully calm. Whether you’re breaking up the walk to Fairlight or just need a moment of stillness, this is the kind of spot that feels like it was put there just for you (and maybe one or two lucky strangers).
What You’ll Find
- A narrow, quiet beach with calm harbour water and gentle waves — ideal for a quick swim or just dangling your feet in at the edge.
- Rocky edges and natural shade from the cliff behind — good for those who want a sun-free corner to sit and think.
- No facilities or amenities — this is a pure bring-your-own-everything experience.
- Peaceful vibes all day long — no large groups, no school excursions, no loud conversations (unless it’s yours).
- A great rest stop on the Manly to Fairlight coastal walk — especially with a coffee in hand.
Things to Do
- Take a quiet dip in the clear water and enjoy having the space (mostly) to yourself.
- Settle into a slow morning with a book, a thermos and no one asking for the sunscreen.
- Pause your coastal walk here and give your legs — and your brain — a well-earned breather.
- If you’re flying a drone, this spot offers great low-traffic potential for harbour shoreline shots — just fly safely and avoid the walking path.
Good to Know
- There are no toilets, taps or cafes nearby — treat it like a scenic secret, not a full-day hangout.
- The beach is narrow, and the tide comes in fast — check tide times if you plan to stay for a while.
- It’s not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible due to the stairs, but very manageable if you’re on foot.
- Drone flying is possible here and often peaceful, but early morning is best to avoid people walking past below.
14. Fairlight Beach
Snorkel, stroll or sit and stay awhile – Fairlight has it all
Where to Find It
Fairlight Beach is the last stop on the coastal path before you reach the suburbs heading toward Balgowlah. It’s an easy 15-minute walk from Manly Wharf, following the foreshore past Delwood and West Esplanade. If you’re driving, there’s limited street parking on Lauderdale Avenue, but walking in is by far the best way to arrive — the view opens up beautifully as you round the bend.
Why Visit
Fairlight has a calm kind of charisma. It’s one of those beaches that locals return to again and again — for a swim, a chat on the wall, or a quiet spot to read with the sea in the background. With its deep blue water, natural rock pools and easy access, it’s perfect for people who want to swim without sand in every crevice.
It’s also a favourite for snorkellers and sea lovers. On a clear day, you’ll see fish weaving through the rocks, and the occasional stingray cruising through like it’s got somewhere better to be. You won’t find surfboards or volleyball courts here — just peaceful water and that “I could stay here all day” feeling.
What You’ll Find
- Deep, calm harbour water that’s perfect for swimming laps, floating, or snorkelling the rocky edge.
- A natural rockpool area near the northern end — fun to explore and great for kids under supervision.
- Wide footpaths, grassy patches and sandstone benches — plenty of spots to sit and watch the world drift by.
- Toilets and a cold outdoor shower just behind the beach — simple but enough to freshen up.
- A locals-only vibe without being exclusive — everyone’s welcome, but it still feels like a community hangout.
Things to Do
- Swim in the clear harbour water — early mornings are especially magical and often uncrowded.
- Snorkel along the rocky ledges and see what marine life is hanging out below the surface.
- Fly your drone from the rocky headland or grassy area — aerial shots here are stunning, especially when the water’s clear.
- Pack a low-key lunch, sit on the bench, and watch the boats drift by — this is coastal downtime at its best.
Good to Know
- The water gets deep quickly, so it’s best for confident swimmers or those wearing floaties with pride.
- The beach gets morning sun and afternoon shade — ideal for early risers or lazy lunch-hour swims.
- No café directly at the beach, so bring your coffee or snack from Manly or stock up before the walk.
- Drone flying is peaceful here if done respectfully — stick to the edges, avoid peak swim times, and enjoy the view from above.
Swim, Stroll, Repeat — Then Refuel
By now, you’ve probably got sandy feet, salt in your hair, and at least three new favourite beaches — which means it’s time to eat. Luckily, Manly’s food scene is just as good as its coastline. Whether you’re after a quick coffee, a seaside gelato or a long lunch with harbour views, there’s a spot for every kind of beach day appetite.
Head over to our guide to 21 Best Places to Eat in Manly for our hand-picked favourites — from flaky croissants to sunset cocktails.
You’ve explored the beaches. Now go taste what’s nearby.
How to Get to Manly
The best way to get to Manly is by car, however you can catch public transport.
To plan your trip, check out Transport NSW website – https://transportnsw.info/trip#/trip
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Ivana Katz is a Sydney based website designer and travel blogger. Having her own business has given her the freedom to explore the world. She believes travel is the best teacher and her passion for adventure, writing and photography has taken her and her son to some amazing places, including Hawaii, Canada, Fiji, Greece and Czech Republic. Ivana’s favourite thing about travelling is learning, discovering hidden gems and creating memories. She loves nothing more than inspiring other women to chase their dreams and explore the world with their families and friends.
