Manly
A Charming Seaside Resort Waiting For You To Discover
What is it about Manly that makes it such a favourite spot for Sydneysiders? Is it its closeness to Sydney? Or is it its quiet charm and unhurried pace inspite of its sophistication? I believe it is this... and more. 
The real spirit of this charming seaside resort is captured in its slogan ‘Manly- seven miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care!' which it received from the Port Jackson & Manly steamship... this along with the title ‘Australia's Premier Seaside Resort'. The area itself received its name from Captain Arthur Philip after he met with the Kay-ye-me and Canalgal aborigines in 1788.
The Australian coastline is known for its beautiful beaches teeming with fun people. Chief among them is Manly Beach which is one of Sydney's most popular Northern beaches. Located north east of Sydney just seven miles away, Manly is a mile long strip that offers many exciting exploits to the traveler. Not only does it have the stunning coastline but it also offers tourist walkways and bicycle circuits through some of the most beautiful sites around. Its closeness to Sydney makes this area a favourite day trip or weekend away for Sydneysiders. For the last three years, we had celebrated our wedding anniversary with a weekend overnight stay with family in this lovely seaside resort.
After dinner ice cream at The Corso in the middle of winter
Getting There
Located at the southern end of the Northern Beaches, you can access this resort town by road (using a car, bus or bicycle) or by Sydney ferries. The ferry from Sydney has a story of its own that ties into the area's fascinating history. First launched by Henry Gilbert Smith in 1853, the ferry line was meant to connect the secluded beach to the city. Today, it serves as a calm scenic way to travel to and from the beach in all of 30 minutes. If you would like to get there faster, you can take the fast private ferries which take just 15 minutes per trip though they will cost you more.
 If you plan on driving, Pittwater Road should get you there. From Sydney, follow the expressway across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and branch off the Manly exit. If you're traveling by bus there are several stops to choose from. Depending on where you are in Sydney, you can get a bus. Sydney has the L buses (184 - 190) - which head to Warringah Mall in the Northern beaches where you connect with a 155 that heads direct to this place. Buses from Lower North that go to the beach are 140, 143 or 144 from Crows Nest or St. Leonards Station.
 If you are really adventurous, then the best way to travel would probably be by bicycle. There are several cycling paths from Sydney city that you can use away from mainstream traffic and that stretch for about 20 kilometres. You might need a guide to help you along the way or you can use a map. The beauty of cycling is the time you have to enjoy and soak in sites along the way depending on the cycling path you choose.
Scenic Spots
There are a lot of places of interests and attractions to see and explore.
The North Head and Sydney Harbour National Park Scenic Drive should lead you through Collins Waterfall and beach (a spectacular sight I must say!), St. Patrick's Estate and
North Fort Artillery Museum.
To catch a glimpse of this seaside resort from above, including views of South Head
and North Head, you can follow the road to Dobroyd Head. Those that just want to relax and soak in some sun can enjoy their
days on Cabbage Tree Bay, exploring the Harbour's eight beaches or sightseeing from the walkways.
Cabbage Tree Bay has shallow clear waters where a variety of exceptional sea life can be viewed. Because of this the areahas become popular with scuba divers and is a great snorkeling location. Additionally there are a variety of pools as Bower Pool, that are popular with families. The smaller beaches include Forty Basket, Collins. You can take the Eastern Hill Heritage walkway where you will see the Rowing club, pass by Parkhill Cottage and Quarantine Station and a good view of the beaches. 
Heritage Plaque Walk will take you past historical Aboriginal sites and the North Harbour Reserve.
Here, you will
also catch views of the Lagoon and Queenscliff Bridge. The walk from Manly to Spit Bridge offers scenic views and also
a variety of good picnic sites and beaches.
But apart from the excellent views of nature, Manly also has excellent entertainment spots including restaurants
and cafés. They serve a variety of international and local cuisine that is suitable for different types of tastes. There are also many pubs and
clubs. If you do not mind gambling, there are casinos that add to the pulsating night life.
Were You Captivated Too By The Charms Of Manly?
Let us know if Manly live up to your expectations.
Share your experience and adventures in this beautiful seaside resort. And don't forget those photos that captured those magical moments.
We want to see them too!
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