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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With kids • Full day • Family
Family Surf & Sun
An epic Manly day for the whole family, blending surf and sun with relaxed vibes and prime harbour views.
Total • ≈ $235–250 pp·Day budget • 4 × $ • 1 × $$ • 3 × $$$
Your day, on the map
- 1
7:30 am • 1 hr 30 min
surf• $$$ (~$70 pp for a lesson or board hire)Manly Beach
Perfect for an early morning surf lesson or bodyboarding with the kids before the crowds arrive.
Grab a board from one of the surf schools near the main beach entrance. Wetsuits are optional in summer, but recommended for beginners.
- 2
9:00 am • 1 hr 30 min
coffee• $ (~$15 pp)Barefoot Coffee Traders
Refuel with excellent coffee and pastries right opposite the beach.
Enjoy your morning brew and a pastry at this iconic coffee window. There are a few benches outside or you can take it to the beach.
- 3
→ 15 min walk along Cabbage Tree Bay Walk
10:30 am • 2 hrs
swim• $$ (~$25 pp for snorkel hire)Shelly Beach
Snorkel the calm waters of Cabbage Tree Bay, perfect for families with younger children.
Walk the scenic Cabbage Tree Bay Walk. Hire snorkelling gear from a shop in Manly or bring your own to explore the marine reserve. Keep an eye out for blue gropers!
- 4
→ Short walk along the beach
12:30 pm • 1 hr 30 min
food• $$$ (~$50 pp)The Boathouse Shelly Beach
Relaxed harbourside lunch with stunning views.
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly lunch right on the sand. The menu features fresh seafood and Australian classics. Reservations are recommended, especially in summer.
- 5
2:00 pm • 2 hrs
swim• $ (free entry)Fairy Bower Beach
Relax by the beautiful Art Deco ocean pool or dip your toes in the refreshingly cool water.
Enjoy the gentle waves at this peaceful beach. The ocean pool is great for a calm swim if the ocean is too lively. Ice cream is available from nearby kiosks.
- 6
→ 10 min walk
4:00 pm • 1 hr 30 min
shop• $ (~$10 pp)The Corso
A relaxed wander through the pedestrian heart of Manly, perfect for souvenir hunting or a quick gelato.
Stroll down the Corso, browsing the surf shops and boutiques. Grab a gelato or an icy drink.
- 7
→ 5 min walk along the Corso to the Wharf
5:30 pm • 2 hrs
food• $$$ (~$60 pp)Hugos Manly
Finish your day with wood-fired pizzas and sunset views over Manly Cove.
Enjoy dinner at Hugos, located right on Manly Wharf. Their wood-fired pizzas are a family favourite, and the views of the harbour at sunset are spectacular.
- 8
→ 1 min walk to the F1 ferry terminal
7:30 pm • 30 min
ferry• $ (~$9 pp (Opal card))Manly Wharf (F1)
Enjoy a scenic F1 ferry ride back to Circular Quay, enjoying the city lights.
Board the iconic Freshwater F1 ferry from Manly Wharf for a relaxing journey back to the city. The trip offers stunning views of the harbour bridge and opera house at night.
Embrace the early start to make the most of Manly's calmer mornings before the summer crowds arrive. Don't forget hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water!