ManlyThe Locals' Guide
The Ultimate Manly Surf Weekend

Surf trip • Weekend • Couple

The Ultimate Manly Surf Weekend

A weekend dedicated to Manly’s iconic surf culture, spanning from the heavy breaks of Queenscliff to the sheltered beauty of Shelly Beach.

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Your day, on the map

  1. 1

    9:00 am3 hours

    surf

    Manly Beach

    The heart of Australian surfing history with sandbanks for all levels.

    Park the car and head straight to the water. The middle of the beach offers consistent peaks, while the southern end provides more shelter if the swell is pumping.

    More on this in our guide
  2. 2

    12:30 pm30 min

    food

    Barefoot Coffee Traders

    Manly's best post-surf caffeine hit.

    Grab a specialty brew and a muffin from this local institution to refuel after your first session. Watch the sets roll in from the sidewalk.

    More on this in our guide
  3. 3

    3:00 pm20 min

    walk

    Cabbage Tree Bay Walk

    A relaxing way to scout the conditions at Fairy Bower.

    A flat, scenic boardwalk connecting the main beach to Shelly. Keep an eye out for sculptures and the bronze 'Oceanides' statues in the water.

    More on this in our guide
  4. 4

    5:30 pm90 min

    drink

    4 Pines Brewing Co.

    The ultimate local spot for a post-surf beer.

    Pull up a stool at the brewpub overlooking the wharf. Try their signature Pale Ale or a seasonal small-batch brew.

    More on this in our guide
  5. 5

    7:30 am2 hours

    surf

    Queenscliff Beach

    The go-to spot for a more challenging morning session.

    Walk to the northernmost tip of the beach. This area is known for holding a bigger swell and offering a hollower wave near the rock wall.

    More on this in our guide
  6. 6

    11:00 am1 hour

    swim

    Shelly Beach

    A calm, crystal-clear sanctuary protected from the swell.

    If the surf is flat, grab a mask and snorkel. This marine reserve is home to Blue Groper, Wobbegongs, and diverse sea life.

    More on this in our guide
  7. 7

    1:30 pm1 hour

    history

    Manly Art Gallery & Museum

    The best place to learn about the history of the sport in Manly.

    Dry off and head to the gallery to explore Manly’s deep-rooted surfing heritage and local coastal art.

    More on this in our guide

Pro tip: Rental boards and wetsuit hire are available along the beachfront at the Corso's end if you didn't bring your own gear.