A three-day Manly escape

Take a scenic walk south from Manly Beach to Fairy Bower Pool and on to pretty Shelly Beach. The sheltered, sandy beach is popular for picnics, and the sparkling clear waters make a great spot for snorkelling. For more stunning views, continue on the path to North Head and enjoy the panoramic lookouts along the way.

Beautifully positioned at the southern end of world-famous Manly Beach, just a 30-metre walk from the sand, The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach is a chic apartment-style hotel with a relaxed seaside atmosphere, and sweeping ocean views.

Return to the foreshore for a picturesque aperitivo on the rooftop of Manly Greenhouse, a stylish restaurant and bar serving wine on tap, smart cocktails, wood-fired pizzas and uninterrupted beachside views.

Feast on fresh, handmade pasta at locally loved Italian restaurant Busta, offering a modern take on friendly Italian dining with an organic-leaning wine list served in an intimate, retro-glam setting.

Finish the evening with a sneaky drink at underground speakeasy The Cumberland. The hidden bar can be found by opening a fridge at the back of Cove Deli, revealing a 1920s-style drinkery offering three distinct cocktail menus and more than 250 bottles of whisky.

The sunny outdoor cafe is known for its creative take on their croissants, from peanut butter and jelly or banoffee creations to savoury versions like spanakopita or cauliflower and cheese.

Photo: concreteplayground.com

Learn about Sydney’s marine life on a snorkelling or stand-up paddleboarding tour through Cabbage Tree Bay, a pristine aquatic reserve located between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach. EcoTreasures’ experienced guides will share their knowledge of the area’s incredible biodiversity and how to conserve the sealife while enjoying it too.

Serving up nourishing, wholesome meals and organic coffee, Ruby Lane Whole Foods is a favourite hangout among Manly locals. With a focus on sustainability and community, the healthy menu supports local producers throughout NSW. Stock up on organic food and health supplies for home at their on-site wholefoods grocery store.

Spend the morning exploring Manly’s lesser known pathways on two wheels with a tour from Joe’s Mountain Bike Tours. The Manly Dam trail is perfect for beginners or more experienced mountain bike riders and offers lush tracks with magnificent views.

Manly’s famed brewpub is a must-visit for all craft-beer lovers. Get a hands-on look at the beer-making process during a workshop at the original micro-brewery upstairs, or settle in for a pint at the lively downstairs 4 Pines Keller Door.

Photo: broadsheet.com.au

Tucked away on Pittwater Road, this vibrant izakaya serves up a contemporary Japanese menu full of unexpected flavour combinations – try Mexican-spiced sushi, Korean-inspired ramen or sweet dessert burgers. Order from a menu of classy cocktails and classic Japanese beer to complete the experience.

This New York-style loft bar is a Manly institution. Take a seat in the award-winning designer interiors and order from a Prohibition Era-inspired drinks menu, handpicked wines by the glass, plus classic American snacks.

With a focus on quality coffee and a seasonal menu, Market Lane Cafe is the perfect place for a Sunday brunch, right in the heart of Manly.

Photo: @marketlane

Once a quarantine stop for migrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, Q Station is a historic precinct rich with real-life stories and heritage buildings to explore. Join a one-hour tour to learn more about the daily operations of this unique Sydney landmark

The burgers at JB & Sons are loved throughout the Northern Beaches, offering classic American-style options using organic meats from nearby Freshwater Village Butchery and Smokehouse. With buffalo wings, loaded fries, margaritas and plenty of craft beer options, this is just the spot to say cheers to a perfect weekend in Manly.

Photo: Anna Kucera