Snorkelling at Cabbage Tree Bay
The aquatic reserve between Manly and Shelly Beach — blue gropers, rays and over 200 species, a few metres from the sand.
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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.
Your day, on the map
- 1
9:00 am • 3 hours
surfManly 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.
- 2
12:30 pm • 30 min
foodBarefoot 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.
- 3
3:00 pm • 20 min
walkCabbage 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.
- 4
5:30 pm • 90 min
drink4 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.
- 5
7:30 am • 2 hours
surfQueenscliff 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.
- 6
11:00 am • 1 hour
swimShelly 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.
- 7
1:30 pm • 1 hour
historyManly 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.
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.