Your Guide to Living Around the Northern Beaches in Sydney

Aug 11, 2022 – 3 minute read – by Annabel Pease

Updated. 30 July 2024

“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.“

If you’ve ever been to the Northern Beaches in Sydney, it’s easy to imagine Ralph Waldo Emerson using these words for this slice of paradise back in the 19th century.

Picture yourself waking up to the sound of waves gently crashing against the shore, the scent of salty sea air filling your lungs, and the golden sun rising over a stunning coastline. This isn’t just a holiday fantasy—it’s just another day in your life living around some of the best northern beaches in New South Wales.

Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who craves a lively community, the Northern Beaches of Sydney offer a lifestyle that feels like a perpetual holiday.

The Allure of Northern Beaches Sydney

Do you know that the Northern Beaches stretch over 30 kilometres and are home to more than 20 beautiful beaches? Each one offers its unique charm and story. From the bustling energy of Manly Beach to the serene, hidden gems like Turimetta Beach, there’s always something new to discover.

Manly Beach

Manly Beach is one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches, attracting locals and tourists alike. Known for its excellent surf conditions, it’s a must-visit spot for surfers of all levels. Manly is also where surfing was introduced to Australia, and the beach even hosted the first world surfing championships in the 1960s. The bustling promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the numerous cafes and restaurants provide plenty of options for a relaxing day by the sea.

women walking in Manly Sydney — Harbour views on the Spit to Manly walk (Image: Destination NSW)

Shelly Beach

Just a short walk from Manly, Shelly Beach offers a quieter, more secluded environment. Thanks to its calm waters and rich marine life, it’s perfect for snorkelling and diving. As part of the Cabbage Tree Bay marine reserve, it’s a haven for underwater enthusiasts. The beach also has facilities like showers, toilets, and barbeque areas, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.

Freshwater Beach

Freshwater Beach is a family-friendly spot known for its safe swimming conditions and lovely picnic areas. It’s also a historic site where surfing was first introduced to Australia by Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku. The beach is perfect for a day out with family, offering gentle waves suitable for beginner surfers and a relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and picnicking.

Coastal Walks on the Northern Beaches

Spit to Manly Walk

This iconic 10km walk offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the surrounding bushland. It’s a favourite among locals and visitors for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. The trail takes you through hidden beaches, rugged bushland, and picturesque viewpoints, making it a must-do for nature lovers and one of the best things to do in Manly.

Manly to Shelly Beach Walk

A short 15-minute stroll from Manly to Shelly Beach, this walk is perfect for a leisurely outing. It offers beautiful views of Cabbage Tree Bay and Fairy Bower. The path is easy to navigate and ends at Shelly Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment.

North Curl to Manly

This 7km walk takes you through several beaches, including Queenscliff and Freshwater, offering a variety of landscapes and experiences along the way. It’s a great way to explore the Northern Beaches, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the views.

Long Reef Headland

Ideal for whale watching, the Long Reef Headland walk is a 3km loop that provides breathtaking ocean views and a chance to spot migrating whales. It’s a relatively easy walk with plenty of opportunities to observe marine life and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Local Eats and Hidden Gems

Rollers Bakehouse in Manly — Rollers Bakehouse: Best cinnamon buns in Manly.

Dining in Manly

The food scene in Manly is unmatched, competing with the best in the country. People will never forget their first visit to the Rollers Bakehouse in Manly. The smell of freshly baked pastries is irresistible, and their cinnamon scrolls quickly became a weekly treat. Pocket Pizza is a go-to for dinner, especially their Fusilli & Vodka Sauce Pasta—an absolute must-try.

Freshwater’s Culinary Delights

Freshwater offers excellent dining experiences, such as Mrs Jones the Baker, for fresh bread and pastries, and various local eateries serving a range of cuisines.

Dee Why’s Foodie Heaven

Dee Why is home to JahBar, a popular spot for tapas and $10 margaritas. It’s a great place for a relaxed meal with friends and family.

Here’s a map showcasing some of the best beaches, eateries and long-term rentals in Northern Beaches, Sydney area:

Things To Do in Northern Beaches, New South Wales

And it’s not just about the food, there are lots of things to do around Sydney’s Northern Beaches. The Northern Beaches have a vibrant community spirit that is palpable. Local markets, community festivals, and beach clean-ups are just a few of the events in the Northern Beaches area that bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Manly Markets

Manly hosts a variety of markets offering local crafts, fresh produce, and unique finds. It’s a great place to spend a weekend morning exploring and shopping.

Dee Why Grand Shopping Centre

Dee Why Grand is a popular shopping destination with a wide range of stores, from fashion to groceries, making it a convenient spot for all your needs.

Warringah Mall

Warringah Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in the area, offers everything from high-end fashion to everyday essentials.

Community Events and Activities

The Northern Beaches are known for their strong sense of community. Regular events such as local markets, outdoor concerts, and community festivals are common.

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Beauty

Living here means having a playground of outdoor activities at your doorstep, so staying active is easy. Popular activities include surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. From surfing the waves at Freshwater Beach to paddleboarding in the serene bays, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active and enjoy nature. The Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers rugged beauty and scenic trails that are perfect for a weekend hike.

Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches is like having a slice of paradise all year round. If you haven’t yet experienced this incredible lifestyle, browse our Northern Beaches long-term rental listings and find your perfect home away from home today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sydney’s Northern Beaches:

What are the best beaches in Manly?

Manly Beach and Shelly Beach are top choices, offering excellent surfing, swimming, and snorkelling opportunities.

Where can I go for a scenic walk in Northern Beaches?

The Spit to Manly walk and the Long Reef Headland walk are among the most scenic options, offering stunning views and varied landscapes.

What dining options are available in Northern Beaches?

From Rollers Bakehouse in Manly to JahBar in Dee Why, the Northern Beaches offer a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes.

Is Northern Beaches Sydney family-friendly?

The area is very family-friendly, with numerous parks, playgrounds, and safe swimming beaches.

What shopping centres are in Northern Beaches?

Dee Why Grand and Warringah Mall are two major shopping centres offering many stores and services.

Are there community events in Northern Beaches?

Yes, there are regular community events such as markets, outdoor concerts, and festivals that bring residents together.

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Your Guide to Living Around the Northern Beaches in Sydney

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Annabel Pease

Personable and organised, Annabel Pease is a natural at building relationships with people based on her bubbly personality and expertise in customer service. A skilled Guest Services Manager with three years’ experience, Annabel has accustomed an exceptional level of communication, transparency and attention to detail. Ensuring that every client-relationship is nurtured, and that they receive the highest level of service available. Annabel’s superior communication, time management and organisational abilities, put her a step ahead, with a firm focus on delivering a quality experience- achieving the maximum result for her clients. With a passion for health and fitness, Annabel exemplifies the ‘Live Better’ initiative we emphasize on at Property Providers, bringing a holistic skillset to her dynamic role as a Guest Services Manager