Sally Fitzgibbons' Top Tips for the Perfect Manly Beach Weekender

With a surfing career spanning over 15 years, Sally has surfed some of the most-extreme breaks across the globe, from Brazil to the United States. For Sally however, Australia is home to some of the most stunning stretches of pristine coastline and is where she most enjoys spending time.

A 2 hour drive from her hometown of Gerroa in New South Wales, Sally frequently visits the Northern Beaches suburb of Manly.

Bustling with locals and tourists, visitors can enjoy rolling surf at the beach or calmer sheltered harbour-side bays. This vibrant town is a hot spot for fresh produce markets, boutique shops and cafes dedicated to serving healthy, whole foods.

If you’re planning a trip to Manly Beach, here’s Sally’s list of top places you just can’t miss.

Location: Pittwater Road, Manly

Serious coffee lovers will enjoy the smooth single origin available at this wholefoods café. Dietaries are considered too with a variety of milks available on request.

A favourite spot for locals, this place gets busy on weekends so it’s best to get down early for a pre-surf feed. All menu items are cooked with sustainable produce, supporting local suppliers so you can’t go wrong whatever you choose.

Try the Beach Bun for a convenient and tasty fill (don’t be alarmed by the charcoal coloured bun) or the Smash ‘N’ Hash for a serious protein-packed hit.

Manly beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Sydney and surfing here is unmissable. The southern end of the beach is ideal for novices, thanks to its sandbanks and more sheltered position along the coastline. 

Location: Marine Parade, Manly

Adjacent to beautiful Shelly Beach, this place is always heaving and favoured by Sally for lunch. This bright Hamptons style space offers wholesome favourites, from epic salads to traditional juicy burgers.

Tip: this place is walk-in only, so you may have to wait for a table. Take the gorgeous walk from Manly and bring a small group of your favourite people. Be sure to pack your swimmers on a warm day, as you won’t be able to resist the crystal waters at Shelly Beach. 

Location: Marine Parade, Manly

Sated from a lunch at the Boathouse and heading back to Manly, Sally recommends a dip at Fairy Bower Ocean pool.

Jutting proud and inviting from the coastal promenade, this pool of turquoise blue begs you to take a dip, a perfect cool reward when walking on a hot summer’s day.    

Location: The Corso, Manly

Sally is sure to take a stroll along The Corso, which is the major access point between Manly Wharf and patrolled Manly beach. This part-pedestrian mall is lined with iconic surf-brand stores, cafes and pubs.

Take a walk through the side laneways that flank the Corso and you’ll find many eateries and boutique shops tucked away from the main drag.

Kids love the bubbling water displays at the beach end and there are plenty of places to sit, rest and soak up the atmosphere. 

Location: Manly Wharf, Manly

In prime position on Manly’s iconic wharf, Hugos is Sydney waterside dining at its best.

Tip, dine-in as the summer-sun sets and the lights of Manly and surrounding suburbs start to twinkle. Expect contemporary Italian cuisine, fancy cocktails and attentive service. 

Location: North Steyne, Manly

Manly Pacific is a great base from which to experience the very best Manly Beach has to offer. Prime beachfront accommodation, guests can experience spectacular water views and be lulled to sleep by the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Hang out at the hotel, take a dip in the rooftop pool, relax bathed in gorgeous sunshine on your balcony or venture out to explore Manly and other beautiful Northern Beaches of Sydney like Queenscliff, Freshwater and famous Palm Beach – about 40 minutes' drive north.