We took the Manly Ferry from Circular Quay for a 30 minute trip through the harbor to Manly Beach. When we arrived, we stopped by the information station, where we got very helpful suggestions and directions, including the best places to snorkel. A short walk across the island took us to the beach. We looked for umbrellas or chairs for rent, but did not see any. There was about 1 - 2 meter surf and many surfers. We walked some more to Shelly Beach for snorkeling. There was a little surge and visibility was 2-3 meters. Water was about 18 Celsius, so we wore wetsuits. We saw many fish including blue groupers, wrasses and several other types. There is an ID board at the beach for the different species. There is not much shade but a few places to sit or picnic. A rinsing area is near the path back to Manly Beach. We had dinner at Wahlburgers and took the ferry back to Sydney. It was a beautiful beach day during our stop in Sydney.

After catching the Manly ferry from Circular Quay it took 20 minutes to get to Manly beach. It's a beautiful area. Countless shops, restaurants, fast food outlets, Gift shops and shops of all types are everywhere. On the day we visited there was a street Market with many lovely items to choose from. The beach itself is wonderful. There is also a trail where people can walk along the shore and enjoy panoramic views.

Caught the fast ferry from Circular Quay this morning. A quick and easy way to travel. Manly beach is wonderful, clean and picturesque. There are many places to stop off for a nite to eat and a drink on route from the ferry. I can recommend The 4 Pines Brewing company.

While visiting Sydney for the first time, decided to take the Manly Ferry to Manly on an early Sunday (to beat the afternoon crowds) on a nice sunny day. The ferry ride was nice and relaxing. Upon arriving at the Manly Wharf, I just followed the crowds that were heading to the beach. The beach was pretty nice, especially with the crescent moon coastline and the tall pine trees along the beach. There is a walking trail that runs along the beach for a nice walk. There are several shops and restaurants between the wharf and the beach, so plenty of things to do. If traveling to Sydney for first time, I would recommend a ferry ride over to Manly, it was about 20 minutes on the fast ferry.

Took the Manley ferry. And then walked the corso (pedestrian area with shops and restaurants) to end. Went to Shelly beach which was less windy. Water was cold but refreshing. Trip was a bit marred by accident at the beach.

Git the ferry from circular quay to Manly and spent a lovely afternoon there. Lots of places to eat and drink. The walk on the promenade is very nice too. We spent a couple of hours on the beach after hiring a beach canopy from a beacfront surf shop for 15 aud which was very convenient and shaded us from the blistering heat. Loved watching the surfers.

Visited via the Sydney Ferries with my wife and daughter. Great town with plenty of shops and restaurants leading down to the seafront. Really odd seeing Christmas Trees mixed in with the palm trees! The beach was lovely with designated areas for swimming and surfing, quite busy but still plenty of room to wander and paddle.

U stole my heart manly, Our first day there we went to Manly Beach via the quick and inexpensive ferry at Circular Quay. To the left when you walk out of the Manly ferry wharf is the protected kids beach that was a hit with the kids.. we than walked down The Corso to the main Manly Beach. The kids had an absolute ball here with nice waves and beautiful golden sand. Amenities: outdoor beach showers near kiosk and indoor showers in change rooms. Lots of shaded shelters along walkway as well. We ended up sitting on one of the benches nearest the store Coles on the Corso for food etc or lots of excellent eateries.

I've been coming to Manly for45 years and it keeps getting better. It has a local vibe but also is embracing to the tourist. Walks on beach or promenade are great and there are nice shops on the Corso and South Steyne Rd. Better not to bring your car.

I am sure things might have been busier on a weekend. But I find it quite amazing that from downtown Sydney, you can take a $6 ferry ride to Manly Wharf, and be at a terrific beach after a 5-10 minute walk. We were there on a Wednesday in March, and the beach was not very crowded. The water was surprisingly warm! (we thought it would be California Pacific chilly). We walked around, had a coffee and some breakfast, and just took in the scenery, then took the 30-minute ferry back to downtown Sydney (the ferry system is AMAZING). Lovely day at Manly.