Manly Beach

Last updated August 2026

Manly sits on a thin peninsula with the open Pacific on one side and calm Sydney Harbour on the other, which is what makes it work for families of every age in one trip. For young kids, skip the ocean side and head to the harbour beaches - East Manly Cove or Fairlight Beach - both much calmer than the surf side. Shelly Beach, a short walk south, is a sheltered bay with free electric BBQs right on the sand. Fairlight Pool has shallow rock pools good for splashing. The ocean-side main beach has a patrolled swimming area and a full beach-town strip (The Corso) for fish and chips or ice cream. What to Bring Swimmers, towels, sun protection A picnic for Shelly Beach's free BBQs Best Age Range All ages - harbour-side beaches (Fairlight, East Manly Cove, Shelly) suit toddlers; the main ocean beach suits older kids and teens who want real waves. Good to Know Free, no booking. Manly Cove also has a large ocean pool next to the old aquarium. Reachable by ferry from Circular Quay, which is half the fun with kids. Nearby The Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk starts from the harbour side, for families wanting a longer outing.