Manly

Connecting the harbourside wharf to the famous ocean beach is the Corso, a pedestrian mall dotted with surf shops, boutiques and classic pubs. There are also surf shops and an enticing range of bars, cafes and restaurants adjacent to the beach, where the first world surfing contest was held in 1964.

On the tree-lined promenade are picnic tables. The white sandy beach is a popular place to learn to surf, with Manly Surf School and Manly Surf Guide offering lessons. You can take a scenic walk south to lovely Fairy Bower Pool and pretty Shelly Beach, where you can enjoy a family barbecue in a park.

There are exciting tours too, including snorkelling and diving in Cabbage Tree Bay, an aquatic reserve with more than 160 species of colourful fish. You can hire a bicycle from Manly Bike Tours and Hire and explore hidden harbour coves and beaches, such as Little Manly Cove and Collins Flat Beach.

Other marvellous things to do include exploring ancient Aboriginal rock engravings at Grotto Point and exhilarating harbour walks, including the 10km Manly to Spit Bridge. The Manly Jazz festival attracts thousands of fans every October long weekend.

You can browse handmade designs at Manly Arts and Craft Market on weekends. Manly is perfect for a short getaway or longer sojourn, with accommodation options to suit various budgets. You can even stay at Q Station, a heritage-listed former quarantine station with magnificent harbour views.