Manly Beach (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Manly Beach?
What makes it 71% Baby-Friendly: Babies can ride in prams along the flat Marine Parade and enjoy gentle paddling at Shelly Beach, and new change rooms exist nearby, but limited shade and no private nursing rooms require extra planning.
Positives:
- Pram-friendly access: Flat, paved paths and ramps along Marine Parade make beach access easy.
- Free baby facilities: Multiple family-change rooms and filtered water taps line the foreshore.
Challenges:
- Limited shade on main beach: There are few trees on the sand—bring a sun shelter or umbrella.
- Weekend parking: Street parking fills early and can cost up to A$7/hour.
What is Manly Beach?
- A 1.2-kilometre crescent of soft white sand on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, backed by coastal bushland and Norfolk pines
- A formative site in Australian surf culture, renowned for consistent beach breaks and early surf clubs
- A coastal precinct that blends heritage promenade pavilions with marine-themed sculptures, shops and cafés along Marine Parade
What is so special about Manly Beach for with baby?
- Soft white sands and gentle surf ideal for baby’s first beach trip.
- Pram-friendly promenade with sea views connects two beaches.
- Lagoon Park offers a shaded playground and shallow rockpool.
- Family-change rooms and water taps available along the foreshore.
- Nearby cafes and picnic spots add mealtime convenience.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: 3-4 hours covers beach time, pram-friendly walk and playground visits without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Manly Beach
Manly Beach soft sands:
Let your baby crawl or sit on the gentle white sand by the shore.
Tip: Bring a wide sun umbrella and a large towel for shade and comfort.
Marine Parade promenade:
Walk the flat, paved path between Manly and Shelly Beach in your pram.
Tip: Pack baby snacks and water; there are filtered water taps along the route.
Lagoon Park playground & rockpool:
Enjoy swings, slides and a shallow rockpool ideal for little feet.
Tip: Visit early or late to avoid peak sun; park benches nearby for breaks.
When is the best time to visit Manly Beach (Sydney, Australia)?
Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot—swim in morning or late afternoon and use sun protection. Winter (Jun–Aug) is mild with fewer crowds but cooler water temperatures.
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Reviews of Manly Beach (Sydney)
Anusha M
We can enjoy this beautiful beach. A calm and serene beach. Very clean and clear. The sand is fine to coarse on this beach. You can find a lot of seagulls here. We find many food courts, cafes, nearby to enjoy the beach and have your food. This beach is a closed one, tides are high, so don't get deep into sea here. The sea pulls us faster into it. So be alert when you are planning to enjoy this...
YL Wong
Came here, Becos we like the sea. And heard that the ferry ride fm Circular Quay offers u good views of the Opera Hse and Harbor Bridge. I took the morning 930am big ferry and the waters are calm. (I am prone to motion sickness). We walked to Cabbage Tree Bay, and was hoping to see whale migration at a distance. But none. Otw back to the Main Street, we dropped by for a coffee at The Bower, ...
Yx Tan
15 minutes ferry ride from sydney doesn't feel short at all! I enjoyed the moment to the fullest!! strolling around manly, sat by the beach + ice cream exactly the peaceful perfect moment!!
Jace Yan
Scenic Ferry Ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach – A Must-Do in Sydney! If you're visiting Sydney or even a local looking for a refreshing escape, the ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach is absolutely unmissable. Departing right beside the iconic Opera House, this journey offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, and the dazzling waterfront skylin...
Gab
Lovely, family friendly, life guard supported beach with many good eateries around and the iconic Manly ferry to get you there from town. Real village vibe with an easy to get around, relaxed feeling, with so much to discover. Also a great community feel.
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry return tickets (2 adults) | AUD 34 |
| Beachside café snack & drink | AUD 20 |
| Lunch at a waterfront eatery | AUD 60 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 114 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manly Beach
- Start at Little Manly Reserve: Morning shade and a small playground here before heading to the main beach.
- Book beach wheelchair: Reserve the free ‘Freewheeler’ online in advance to push pram on sand.
- Pack a picnic lunch: Use electric BBQs at Shelly Beach park to skip cafe lines.
Map of Manly Beach
Address: Manly Beach, New South Wales, Australia
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