Manly Beach

Manly Beach is a three-kilometre stretch of sand on Sydney's northern shore, lined with golden sand and Norfolk Island pines along the foreshore promenade facing the Pacific Ocean. The shore is bounded by rocky headlands at each end, with grassy lawns, barbecue areas and small parks behind the promenade.

The area was first sighted by European settlers in 1788, and the shore developed into a popular bathing resort during the late 19th century. In 1964 the first international surfing contest took place here, drawing competitors from Hawaii and California.

The name comes from an early governor's reaction to the confident bearing of the local Aboriginal people he encountered here. Today families picnic on the grass along the foreshore while groups of children and adults learn to surf through organised lifeguard programs.

Access is by ferry from Circular Quay, which takes around 30 minutes, followed by a short walk through a pedestrian mall. Swimming flags mark safe areas, and it is advisable to swim only between these flags as currents can be strong at either end.

The bay at the southern end holds more than 200 fish species in a protected marine reserve, including blue gropers that grow larger than a metre. Visitors can snorkel and observe these fish just a few metres from shore without needing a boat or diving gear.