- Manly
Popular camping styles for Manly
Tiny homes near Manly guide
Overview
A short drive or boat ride from Sydney's Central Business District, Manly has long been popular among tourists, owing to its pretty beaches and close proximity to Australia's most populous city. It's considered the birthplace of Australian surfing, but even if you aren't a surfer, you're still likely to find plenty to do, from checking out some of Manly’s beaches to visiting the numerous shops and restaurants that dot the town. Manly is also the gateway for visiting the North Head Sanctuary, a nature sanctuary and the site of North Fort, a former military base.
Where to go
The Blue Mountains
A popular day trip for Sydneysiders and visitors alike, the Blue Mountains are characterised by massive cliffs, caves, and gorges as well as sprawling bushland that provides habitat for all sorts of creatures. The area is particularly popular with rock climbers and hikers, but plenty of people come here just to take in the dramatic views.
Lane Cove National Park
A short drive from Manly, this national park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a creek--plus boat rentals for those who want to get out on the water. Its proximity makes for an easy day trip, but there are plenty of spots to camp and glamp both in the park and in its immediate vicinity.
Royal National Park
Just south of Sydney, Royal National Park offers over 100 kilometres of walking tracks, some with exceptional views out over the ocean. Head to the park's Audley Boatshed to hire a kayak for a day of paddling on Kangaroo Creek.
When to go
Manly offers pleasant weather throughout the year, with hot summers that get a fair bit of rain and pleasantly warm (and slightly drier) winters. Autumn and winter offer the best surfing conditions, and June in particular is considered ideal for surfing. If you like jazz, it's worth visiting during the October Long Weekend holiday, when the annual Manly International Jazz Festival takes place.
