Manly Beach

Manly Beach is the furthest of Sydney's famous beaches, requiring about a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay.

From Manly Wharf to the beach, you walk through a long commercial street with many restaurants and a COLES supermarket. The closer you get to the beach, the more seagulls you'll see.

Behind the beach is a long row of high steps where many people sit having picnics, enjoying the sea view and breeze.

As soon as you start eating, several seagulls surround you from all directions, fighting for territory while waiting to steal food. Even worse, some seagulls hover above your head, waiting to swoop down and grab food as you're bringing it to your mouth. Once one succeeds, all the thieving birds rush in, and your food disappears in the blink of an eye.

The water is clear and the sand is fine, with handsome guys surfing and beautiful women sunbathing. But most people just quietly watch the sea, have picnics, and chat - it's peaceful and beautiful.

Walking right along the path leads you to the villa district and Shell Bay. Along the way are benches donated by residents in memory of their departed loved ones, each with commemorative words. There's also a seawater pool specifically for women and children by the sea, which feels very thoughtful.

When you reach Cabbage Bay, you can climb a small hill to see the ocean from three sides.