Manly Scenic Walkway
Manly Scenic Walkway
4.5
About
A 10km scenic walkway taking in the breathtaking sites from the Spit Bridge to Manly Wharf. Pass through bushlands, beaches,and majestic viewpoints this is a walk not to be missed.
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The area
Neighborhood: Manly
A 40-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay will take you to the famous northern beach of Manly. The beaches here are perfect for learning to surf or spending the day sun-tanning. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a great way to experience Sydney Harbour Bay and the Australian bush land. Along the foreshore, there are plenty of watering holes and wine bars with excellent cuisine. There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants as well, especially along the family-oriented areas like Shelly Beach. An excellent way to experience Manly is to rent a bike and explore the dedicated bike paths and off road trails. The North Head National Park is another must-see. Located on the southern tip of Manly, North Head National Park offers great bushwalks and panoramic views of the city.
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See what travelers are saying
- Barb BBloomfield Hills, Michigan126 contributionsManly over BondiGoing to Manly Beach (instead of Bondi) was a great decision! Enjoyed the breezy ferry over on a blazingly hot 98-degree day in March. The view from the walk was breathtaking. Not to mention all the beach bodies and surfers along the way. Just go!Hi BarbB416 Thank you for your great review. We might be a little biased, but Manly also wins for us when it comes to the battle of Sydney's famous beaches. So glad you enjoyed your visit. Manly Visitor information CentreWritten March 22, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2023Written March 20, 2023
- ntarayavonkPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania86 contributionsSimple, beautiful hike to Manley Beach.We took the ferry from circular quay to Hudson and hiked the entire loop from Jacob’s ladder to Manley Beach. Beautiful hike. You saw the Sydney Harbor skyline through your hike. If you have a free afternoon, I would highly recommend this.Hi ntarayavonk So glad you enjoyed your walk around Sydney Harbour. There are so many beautiful viewing points and dramatic clifftops. Thank you for your review. Manly Visitor Information CentreWritten May 29, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 9, 2023
- Michelle W109 contributionsLovely walk, well worth the effort of the steps!This is a lovely walk; the scenery along the way is beautiful. We walked from the Spit Bridge end and the first part is definitely the hardest with lots of steps up and down but after about the first 4km or so it’s no where near as bad, with only a few ups and downs. We did it in walking boots but plenty of people were in trainers. It took us just under 3 hours and we are not fast walkers!Hi 12797CTmichellew, Thank you so much for taking the time to write this lovely detailed review of the beautiful Manly to Spit walk. We are so glad you found the walk and views worth it. Thank you again Manly Visitors Information CentreWritten April 16, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 12, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
1,733 reviews
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Pixiehat
New Zealand480 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
Two walkways - my fave, turn left from ferry terminal and take a nice amble along water edge, with pleasantly manicured lawns, a marina, swimming bays (with shark nets), pretty flowers and plants, and posh houses to peer at.
Or/and... Turn right from ferry terminal,walk through a pleasant shopping street (Visitor Information on nearest corner), meander up to beach, and you have another lovely walk with sea views, many passers-by (and their dogs), and cafes and restaurants at main Manley swimming beach. I much prefer this beach area to Bondi.
There is a nice market down main shopping streets on Sundays.
Or/and... Turn right from ferry terminal,walk through a pleasant shopping street (Visitor Information on nearest corner), meander up to beach, and you have another lovely walk with sea views, many passers-by (and their dogs), and cafes and restaurants at main Manley swimming beach. I much prefer this beach area to Bondi.
There is a nice market down main shopping streets on Sundays.
Written September 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Pixiehat
So happy to hear about your favourite walks.
Manly is so much about the outdoors, with two very famous long walks - your fave Manly Scenic Walkway as well as the hike around North Head with its views and historical points of interest - plus the easy stroll along Manly Beach and around to Shelly Beach.
Did you know that Manly Scenic Walkway received the 2023 Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice Award? That means it’s now in the top 10% of attractions worldwide on the popular visitor platform. Great minds think alike!
Thank you
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written October 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Susan C
Melbourne, Australia810 contributions
May 2023 • Solo
I undertook the Manly to Spit walk (and a bit further) on a Wednesday starting from Manly Wharf, along the beach via the free art gallery which was worth a visit. After some boardwalk and fairly residential areas I got to Forty Baskets Beach where I was able to cross at the rocks but at high tide you will need to go up higher up. Then you are on the bushland walking track section of the Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Bushwalk which has a number of lookouts. It goes uphill quite a bit. I got to the Grotto Point Aboriginal Rock Engravings (read the signs and be careful not to walk on them) but, after climbing so high, wasn't up to taking the tracks down (then back up) to Washaway Beach or Grotto Point Lighthouse but did walk down to Castle Rock Beach.
Coming down to Clontarf beach where the yachts come very close to the shore was pretty and that's where I stopped to rest as there are two very nice cafes here - Bosk and Sandy Bear. The direct walking path to the Spit was closed so it was again a walk up to the main road and across the Spit where you can take a bus back into town. If you are after natural bushwalking then this walk is excellent but there is a lot of hill climbing.
If you decide to continue onwards and continue with the Bondi to Manly walk, once over the Spit Bridge the walk is though a number of reserves accessed via residential areas. I tried the Parriwi Lighthouse walking track and where, if the tide is low, you might be able to inch along the rocks around the houses to Chinaman's Beach, then up and down to Edwards Beach and then the largest beach, Balmoral, which has a number of shops, restaurants and a pretty beach.
Coming down to Clontarf beach where the yachts come very close to the shore was pretty and that's where I stopped to rest as there are two very nice cafes here - Bosk and Sandy Bear. The direct walking path to the Spit was closed so it was again a walk up to the main road and across the Spit where you can take a bus back into town. If you are after natural bushwalking then this walk is excellent but there is a lot of hill climbing.
If you decide to continue onwards and continue with the Bondi to Manly walk, once over the Spit Bridge the walk is though a number of reserves accessed via residential areas. I tried the Parriwi Lighthouse walking track and where, if the tide is low, you might be able to inch along the rocks around the houses to Chinaman's Beach, then up and down to Edwards Beach and then the largest beach, Balmoral, which has a number of shops, restaurants and a pretty beach.
Written June 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi SusanC4948
Thank you for such a comprehensive and inspiring review of our beautiful walk between Manly and The Spit.
You have certainly experienced all it has to offer, with harborside beaches, dramatic lookout points and indigenous artworks.
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written June 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michelle W
109 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
This is a lovely walk; the scenery along the way is beautiful. We walked from the Spit Bridge end and the first part is definitely the hardest with lots of steps up and down but after about the first 4km or so it’s no where near as bad, with only a few ups and downs. We did it in walking boots but plenty of people were in trainers. It took us just under 3 hours and we are not fast walkers!
Written April 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi 12797CTmichellew,
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this lovely detailed review of the beautiful Manly to Spit walk. We are so glad you found the walk and views worth it.
Thank you again
Manly Visitors Information Centre
Written April 17, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ntarayavonk
Philadelphia, PA86 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
We took the ferry from circular quay to Hudson and hiked the entire loop from Jacob’s ladder to Manley Beach. Beautiful hike. You saw the Sydney Harbor skyline through your hike. If you have a free afternoon, I would highly recommend this.
Written April 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi ntarayavonk
So glad you enjoyed your walk around Sydney Harbour.
There are so many beautiful viewing points and dramatic clifftops.
Thank you for your review.
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written May 29, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Barb B
Bloomfield Hills, MI126 contributions
Mar 2023
Going to Manly Beach (instead of Bondi) was a great decision! Enjoyed the breezy ferry over on a blazingly hot 98-degree day in March. The view from the walk was breathtaking. Not to mention all the beach bodies and surfers along the way. Just go!
Written March 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi BarbB416
Thank you for your great review.
We might be a little biased, but Manly also wins for us when it comes to the battle of Sydney's famous beaches.
So glad you enjoyed your visit.
Manly Visitor information Centre
Written March 22, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vivien L
2 contributions
Feb 2023
We are actually living locally here. Usually have a walk along the walkway in the evenings - always nice, safe and beautiful, day or night, rainy or sunny, cold or warm:)
Written February 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Well said 470vivienl
We love the Manly to Spit Walk. It is such a beautiful mix of stunning scenery and mixed of terrain.
And it's great that you can choose to tackle the full 10km or simply break it up into easily accessible sections. The Balgowlah to Fairlight stretch makes for a lovely relaxing stroll at any time of day.
Thank you
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written February 22, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michaela
26 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
The views are worth it! Don't pay and grab a map from the visitor centre. We did this in the height of summer and was such a beautiful, enjoyable experience.
Written January 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Michaela D
So pleased to hear you loved the Manly to Spit Walk - it's one of our favourites too.
And so convenient, starting as it does in the heart of Manly at Manly Wharf, and with a regular bus service at the Spit Bridge collecting tired walkers and either bringing them back to Manly for a well-deserved lunch or dinner, or taking them on to the city via the iconic Harbour Bridge.
Thank you
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written February 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sally Ann
Sydney, Australia32 contributions
Dec 2022
So you can take this very slowly but there is a LOT of uphill walking. If its hot like now take plenty of water. It's worth a look and we have never done the whole walk but doubled back once we feel we've had enough. Its an average experience with some nice spots.
Written January 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi SydneySally1
You're right, there is a bit of uphill walking which can be difficult on a hot day, but does yield some magical views.
Can we recommend not only plenty of water as you say, but also calling in at one (or more) of the many gorgeous little beaches along the way for a cool-off in the harbour.
Thank you
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written February 13, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sinead W
Melbourne, Australia82 contributions
Jan 2023
This was a tough walk but so worth it!!! Several beautiful beaches you can stop at to have a swim, scenery to die for and a sense of achievement after the long hard trek much of which is uphill with many steps. I would recommend wearing good hiking boots and taking Alpenstock walking sticks or poles, plenty of water and some snacks as there are no opportunities to purchase water, drinks, etc along the way.
Written January 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Sinead W
Isn't that walk amazing!
If you tackle it again we can recommend a couple of cafes en route to keep your energy up.
At Clontarf there is Sandy Bear, Clontarf Marina, open 7am-3pm daily; and Bosk, Clontarf Reserve, Sandy Bay Rd.
At North Harbour Reserve is Forty Beans, 2/11 Lower Beach St, Balgowlah, open 7.30am-12 noon Mon-Fri and 8am-2pm Sat-Sun.
Thank you
Manly Visitor Information Centre
Written February 13, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pink P
Florida539 contributions
Dec 2022
Hiking path just set back a bit from the beach. Great view of Manly Beach and the ocean water filled swimming pool. You can take a ferry from Circular Quay with great views of the Harbor Bridge and the Opera House en route.
Written January 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Pink P,
Thank you very much for taking the time to write a lovely review of your experience in Manly.
Thank you again
Manly Visitor Information
Written January 8, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mel_inholland
holland39 contributions
Hi is there a section of the walk best suited to younger children? Active capable kids but 10km might be too far.
Thanks
Manly
Manly, Australia
Hi
I would suggest starting the walk at Manly and seeing how far you can go! After about 45 minutes, you will reach North Harbour Reserve where there is a little cafe, toilets, a playground and a basketball court. A further 20 minutes or so along the walk is a beautiful swimming beach with an enclosed pool, free gas barbeques, a swing and picnic tables. Call in at our the Manly Information Centre to pick up a map and we can answer any further questions you may have - we are open Wednesdays to Sundays from 10-5pm. Cheers
lto860
Shoreham-by-Sea, UK33 contributions
How much does it cost from the circular keys to Manly on the ferry? Thank you
Eileen0101
Droitwich, UK123 contributions
Buy an opal card which is good for this ferry (but not Manly fast ferry), trains and buses and is excellent value for money
Lindyblu
Nelson, New Zealand162 contributions
About how long does the walk take?
claudeVincennes_94_
Vincennes63 contributions
Shorter than Bondi -Coogee walk and less physical !!
Let’s say 2-3 hours round trip.
Lindyblu
Nelson, New Zealand162 contributions
About how long does the walk take?
travelchick119
Manchester, UK189 contributions
Took me 2hrs
Cheeslecheese
Singapore, Singapore50 contributions
Will it still be nice around winter period in August?
Mairwen1
United Kingdom9,563 contributions
August is a lovely time of the year for walking because it is not too hot. You can wear a jacket or jumper to start off but you will probably find that you take the jumper off once you have walked and warmed up. If it is a little cold, take layers. Take a water bottle too because you will still need this along the way.
If you do the whole walk, when you arrive in Manly, it will be too cold for most people to swim, but it is nice to look at the beach. You can also walk along to Shelly Beach where you can have lunch at the Boathouse cafe. There are also lots of other food options in manly as well.
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Claim your listingMANLY SCENIC WALKWAY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Manly Scenic Walkway
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