🌞 The Perfect 3-Day Escape to Manly
We get it — not everyone can stay in Manly for as long as they’d like to. Maybe you’ve only got a weekend off work, or you’re squeezing in a coastal escape between Sydney plans. Either way, three days is plenty of time to fall in love with this surfy little pocket of paradise.
Here’s how to make the absolute most of it 👇
🏖️ Day 1 — Arrive, Unwind & Feel the Vibe
Welcome to the Northern Beaches! Hop off the ferry and take in that first view of Manly Wharf — ocean air, golden light, and locals walking around barefoot with surfboards under their arms.
Morning:
Start your day with a coffee at Fika Café, then wander down The Corso until you hit Manly Beach. You’ll find the sand lined with surfboards, swimmers, and beachgoers catching rays — this is your sign to slow down.
Feeling energetic? Grab a free surfboard at Stoke Beach House and paddle out for your first dip.
Afternoon:
When hunger hits, head to The Hold for a burger, then rent a free snorkel set from Stoke Beach House and explore Shelly Beach’s marine reserve — you might spot a friendly blue groper or two!
Evening:
Catch the sunset from The Office, Manly’s go-to picnic spot by the water. BYO drinks, grab some snacks from Coles (the local supermarket), and watch the sky turn pink. Wrap up your first night with live music or a cold pint at 4 Pines Brewpub right on the wharf.
🌿 Day 2 — Adventure Day: From Cliffs to Waves
Today’s all about getting outdoors and exploring Manly’s wild side.
Morning:
Start your day with an amazing free yoga class at Stoke Beach House, then fuel up with a smoothie bowl from Oakberry Açai. Ready to explore? Take on the Spit to Manly Coastal Walk — a 10 km trail packed with rainforest paths, secret coves, Aboriginal rock engravings, and panoramic views. Bring swimmers and plenty of water — you’ll want to stop for a refreshing dip along the way.
Afternoon:
After the hike, make your way up to North Head Lookout for some of the most breathtaking views in Sydney. From here, you can see the cliffs drop dramatically into the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline shimmering across the harbour — it’s one of those “wow” moments that reminds you just how close nature and city life are here.
Evening:
After a big day outdoors, unwind with sunset drinks at The Steyne Rooftop or dinner under the fairy lights at Felons. Ocean breeze, good food, perfect vibe.
🌅 Day 3 — Chill, Explore & Soak It All In
Your final day is all about slowing down and soaking up those last Manly moments.
Morning:
Ease into the day with an early swim (locals swear by it). Grab brekkie at Stoke Beach House and wander through the Manly Markets for local art, jewellery, and handmade treasures.
Afternoon:
Hire a kayak from Manly Kayak Centre and paddle all the way to Collins Flat Beach — a hidden little cove perfect for one last swim before heading home.
Evening:
If you’ve got time before your ferry back to Sydney, enjoy a final meal by the wharf, breathe in the salty air, and promise yourself you’ll return — because everyone does.
💛 The Vibe
Manly isn’t just a place — it’s a lifestyle. Three days here is all it takes to catch the rhythm: early mornings, ocean dips, and sunsets that stop you mid-sentence.
And the best way to experience it all? Stay at Stoke Beach House. From free surfboard and snorkel hire to yoga lessons and the best community vibes in town, it’s the perfect home base for your Manly escape — but be quick, we’re about to sell out!
Whether you surf, sip, hike, or simply chill, you’ll leave lighter, happier, and a little more sun-kissed than when you arrived.
