A Local's Guide to Shelly Beach

February 28, 2022

Shelly Beach is a small beach cove overlooking Manly Beach in Sydney's Northern Beaches region. Shelly's main attraction is its safe family beach.


With a wide variety of sea life that may be seen in relatively shallow water, it's popular among scuba divers and snorkellers.


Shelly Beach can get busy with swimmers and sunbathers on hot summer days. Evenings are usually quiet. It has its own beachside cafe and restaurant.


Shelly Beach is located at the end of a beachside stroll from south Manly just off The Corso.


Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, on Shelly Beach, is a sanctuary for marine life and has a strict no-fishing policy for swimmers, snorkelers and divers to follow.

Can I learn to surf at Shelly Beach?

No, there is no surf at Shelly Beach, but it is only a few hundred metres from Manly Beach where you can learn to surf and hire anything from mini-mals to stand up paddleboards.

What can be seen underwater at Shelly Beach?

Many types of marine life including coloured fish, crabs, sea stars and the occasional octopus may be seen in relatively shallow water.


Shelly Beach is great for snorkelers with its variety of marine life in calm waters. Scuba divers also find it popular due to its ease of access from shore, easy entry and exit points and plentiful sea life that can be found here.


People often come here just to throw down a towel on the sand or stretch out on a rocky area looking out over Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve.

How far is Shelly Beach from the Manly Ferry?

It's quick and easy to get to Shelly Beach by catching the ferry in the CBD to Manly, then around a 10-minute stroll through The Corso and along the beachfront.

What is shopping like at Shelly Beach?

Shelly Beach is an unpretentious beach-side community where locals and visitors can take coffee, lunch or dinner from Manly and sit beside the beach. It's low-key and relaxed, but there are still plenty of options nearby.


Few people come to Shelly Beach only to shop; most come to sunbathe on the sand, swim in the water or scuba dive with the marine life (or do nothing at all). It's only a few minutes from everything Manly has to offer.

How far is Shelly Beach from the Sydney CBD?

It is around 17km by car or bus to Shelly Beach. You can easily catch a more direct route from Sydney's Circular Quay to Manly and take a short stroll to Shelly Beach, which is around 2km.

What are the best restaurants in Shelley Beach?

There are a few options for dining at Shelly Beach, but most people visit Manly which has plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars.

There are a few notable restaurants and cafes opposite Shelly Beach though.


The Boathouse Shelly Beach

1 Marine Parade, Manly

 

The Bower Manly

7 Marine Parade, Manly

What accommodation can I get at Shelly Beach?

There are no hotels or motels at Shelly Beach but it is directly opposite all that Manly has to offer, from high-end luxury accommodations to budget-friendly backpacker style rooms. There are plenty of luxury homes and apartments available for holiday rental listed online.

Is Shelly Beach safe for families? 

Shelly Beach is generally very safe for families, especially its north end where the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is. Shelly Beach is great for swimming all year round, even through winter when many other beaches close because of rough conditions. Even in summer you won't get strong currents but be careful near rocks and tidal areas.

Is Shelly Beach patrolled?

No, the beach is not patrolled.


Book Manly Panorama today or Contact us.


Where do the Locals Hangout in Manly | Manly Panorama

Where do the Locals Hangout in Manly?

By Katie Northey • April 11, 2022
If you're looking for a place to truly experience what Manly has to offer, then you'll want to check out some of the local Manly hangouts. From relaxed beach bars to hipster cafes, here are some of the best places to rub shoulders with the locals in Manly.
A Guide to Luxury Hotels in Manly Beach | Manly Panorama

A Guide to Luxury Hotels in Manly Beach

By Katie Northey • April 10, 2022
Looking for luxury hotels in Manly Beach? Manly Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with its white sand, crystal clear waters, and temperate environment, it makes the perfect beach holiday destination. There are plenty of luxury hotels and resorts to choose from in Manly Beach. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Manly Beach.
A Guide to Manly Beach Safety | Manly Panorama

A Guide to Manly Beach Safety

By Katie Northey • April 7, 2022
With its beautiful golden sand, waves perfect for surfing and stunning coastal views, Manly Beach is one of Sydney's most popular beaches. However, it's important to be aware of the dangers that can exist both in and out of the water. Here are some tips on how to stay safe at Manly beach.
Golf Course in Manly Australia | Manly Panorama

Golf Course in Manly

By Katie Northey • April 7, 2022
Golf Courses in Manly are a top golfing destination for many reasons. Manly is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The local golf courses are world class, with generally great weather, making it a good place to golf all year round. Manly Golf Courses are situated close to many other attractions, such as restaurants, cafes and bars on the beach. This makes it easy to make a day out of golfing. There are many golf courses in Manly to choose from, so golfers of all levels will be able to find a course that suits them. Some of the more popular golf courses include Manly Golf Club, Balgowlah Golf Club and Warringah Golf Club.  Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to check them out.
A Guide to Surf Lessons in Manly | Manly Panorama

A Guide to Surf Lessons in Manly

By Katie Northey • April 5, 2022
Surf lessons in Manly are the perfect way to learn how to surf. The waves here are perfect for beginners, and there are a number of schools that offer surf lessons. Surf lessons usually last for a few hours, and you will be able to learn all the basics of surfing. You will also be able to practice your new skills in the water. Surf lessons are a great way to meet new people and make friends, and they are also a lot of fun. If you want to learn how to surf, then Manly is the place to go. There are a number of Surf Schools in Manly that offer Lessons so you can find the right one for you!
Manly Beach Directions, Transport and Parking | Manly Panorama

Manly Beach Directions, Transport and Parking

By Katie Northey • April 4, 2022
If you're looking for Manly Beach directions, transport and parking, you'll want to know the distance from key places such as the Sydney CBD , Sydney Airport and Bondi . Manly Beach i  s about 14 kilometers away from the Sydney CBD, so it's a great option if you're looking for a day trip or some seaside relaxation. There are plenty of public transport options available, so getting there is easy. If you're coming from Sydney airport, it will take you about 30 minutes to get to Manly. If you're looking for directions from Bondi, it's a little bit further - it will take you about 45 minutes to get there. Once you're at Manly Beach, there's plenty to do. You can swim in the ocean, sunbathe on the sand or go for a walk. There are many restaurants and cafes in the area if you want to grab a bite. Manly Beach is definitely worth a visit.
Manly Beach Holiday Weather | Manly Panorama

Manly Beach Holiday Weather

By Katie Northey • April 4, 2022
The weather at Manly Beach is usually pretty mild, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. However, it can get quite hot in the summer time. The Bureau of Meteorology has a weather station at Sydney - Observatory Hill, so you can check the latest weather forecast before you head down. You can find the BOM weather station here: http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDN60801/IDN60801.94768.shtml Happy holidays at Manly Beach.
Which International Brand Hotels are in Manly | Manly Panorama

Which International Brand Hotels are in Manly?

By Katie Northey • March 29, 2022
Manly Beach is one of Sydney’s most popular beaches, and it’s easy to see why. With its golden sand and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to relax or catch a wave. Here is a list of the International Brand Hotels that are in Manly .
Luxury Self-Contained Apartments in Manly | Manly Panorama

Luxury Self-Contained Apartments in Manly Australia

By Katie Northey • March 29, 2022
Manly is a beautiful beachside suburb of Sydney, and it is home to some of the best self-contained apartments in Australia. Luxury Manly apartments are situated in prime locations, just minutes from the beach and all the best that this vibrant suburb has to offer. Manly is known for its excellent surfing beaches, and its many restaurants, cafes and bars. It is also a great place to shop, with boutique shops and major retailers all within easy reach. Luxury self-contained apartments in Manly offer guests the perfect base from which to explore all that this fabulous suburb has to offer. With everything from stylish studios to spacious three-bedroom apartments, there is something to suit every taste and budget. All apartments are furnished to a high standard and come complete with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, broadband internet access and full kitchen facilities.
Boutique Hotels in Manly | Manly Panorama

Boutique Hotels in Manly

By Katie Northey • March 29, 2022
Boutique hotels in Manly are the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy all that this vibrant seaside suburb has to offer. From stunning beaches and great surf spots to buzzing nightlife and some of Sydney's best restaurants, Manly has something for everyone. And what could be better than being able to relax in a comfortable and stylish boutique hotel after a busy day out and about? There are a number of great boutique hotels in Manly to choose from, all of which offer a unique and individual experience.
More Posts
Share by: