A Guide To The Coastal Spit To Manly Walk

Lace up your shoes and get ready for an outstanding bushwalk, because the Spit Bridge to Manly walk is always an excellent idea.

The Spit to Manly walk, also known as the Manly Scenic Walkway, is a must-see 10-kilometre coastal track offering striking views of Sydney Harbour, stunning secret beaches, sites of cultural significance and snapshots of Australian plants and wildlife. It’s popular, so expect to encounter a combination of Sydneysiders enjoying their favourite day hike and wide-eyed international visitors soaking in the natural beauty for the first time.

It’s not just a track for hiking, remember to pack your swimmers to enjoy the secluded swimming spots along the way, and throw in your snorkels for good measure, so you’re prepared when you reach Fairlight Beach, one of the best snorkelling spots in Sydney.

Here is how to get the most out of this stunning coastal walk.

The Spit Bridge to Clontarf

Distance: 2.3 kilometres (approximate)

Beginning at the Spit, take an opportunity to grab a coffee from either Plonk Beach Cafe or Grumpy’s Wharf Cafe, and use the bathroom facilities before starting. Walk down the steps at the northern end of the Spit Bridge to reach Ellery’s Punt Reserve and make your way east. It doesn’t take long for the sounds of steady traffic to be replaced by an earthy soundtrack of bird calls; look out for lorikeets and kookaburras in the canopy above.

The first highlight is inside a rock cave which can be found just on from Fisher Bay. Here, you’ll find signs of small, sun-bleached, white shells indicating an Aboriginal midden.

Keep walking and you’ll pass by dog-friendly Sandy Bay. Dogs aren’t allowed in the national park, so if you’d like your dog to run free here, it’s best to come back another time with a car.

friends walking along Clontarf Beach — Walk along the serene shore at Clontarf Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’ll soon find yourself at the stretch of golden sand that is Clontarf Beach. Clontarf is family-friendly, with shallow and calm waters, and an enclosed tidal pool swimming area. You can grab a takeaway drink and a bite to eat at Bosk Kiosk or stop by Sandy Bar Cafe if you prefer to take a break from walking. Keep in mind that this is the last cafe until you are significantly further along the trail at North Harbour Reserve.

a Poinsettia plant next to North Harbour, Spit to Manly Coastal Walk, Sydney, Australia — Stop at North Harbour Reserve. (Image: lrosebrugh via Getty Images)

As you make your way along the foreshore, you’ll notice a large and enticing shaded playground. The grassed area behind the beach is shady, with barbecues and picnic tables available, as well as bathroom facilities (the last until Reef Bay). It is advisable to fill up your water here too, as there are no water fountains until the end of the track at Fairlight Beach.

walking from Spit Bridge to Manly via Clontarf Beach — Traverse the Spit Bridge to Manly via Clontarf Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Clontarf to Dobroyd Head

Distance: three kilometres (approximate)

This leg of the track is often people’s favourite part. The path hugs the coastline to reveal beautiful water views and some parts of the walk feel like lush rainforest. The first stretch from Clontarf is along a sandy beach only accessible at low tide.

friends enjoying stunning coastal views of Sydney Harbour from Dobroyd Head, Balgowlah Heights. — Soak up scenic coastal views in Balgowlah Heights. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’ll have to take the alternative road along Monash Crescent if you’re walking through at high tide. This is clearly signposted, and the end of the road takes you back to the track. Be on the lookout for wildlife as you may come across eastern water dragons and a range of birds, including bush turkeys.

a couple enjoying the walk from Spit Bridge to Manly with scenic views across Sydney Harbour — You’ll be spoilt for stunning coastal views from Spit to Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

If you didn’t stop for a swim at Clontarf, there are some great options in this section. Consider taking the steps down to secluded and rocky Isoldes Beach. Be mindful of the tides and where you leave your belongings as parts of this beach are prone to disappear underwater.

Further along the track is pristine and popular Castle Rock Beach, which is bigger than Isoldes and home to an ancient Aboriginal rock carving. While there can usually be a handful of keen swimmers floating in the water, this beach is certainly more private than Clontarf.

The next part of the track does become more challenging as you walk through bushland. You’ll pass a detour sign for Grotto Point, which will take you down to the historic Grotto Point Lighthouse and hidden Washaway Bay. Grotto Point Lighthouse dates back to 1911 and was originally constructed to help ships coming through Sydney Harbour; it’s still operational today.

Take in panoramic views across Sydney Harbour from Grotto Point. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s important to note that the detour is not an official part of the track, nor factored into the overall track distance length. While this detour section is good for birdwatching and scenic views, the path is not clearly signposted like the Spit to Manly track and a map is needed.

the Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site along theSpit Bridge to Manly walk — You’ll spot the Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site. (Image: Destination NSW)

Keep an eye out for the signpost to see the Grotto Point Aboriginal rock engravings, which are only a very short distance from the track. If you look carefully, you will see a whale, small fish, boomerangs and a large kangaroo. There is a boardwalk and timber enclosures to protect these well-preserved engravings, and an information sign to learn more.

friends visiting the Grotto Point Aboriginal engravingsalong the Spit Bridge to Manly walk — See rock engravings at Grotto Point. (Image: Destination NSW)

Breathtaking lookouts showcasing incredible panoramic views of Sydney Harbour round out the leg of this track. A slight detour up to Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head offers expansive views of North and South Head – it’s an especially great spot during whale-watching season.

scenic coastal aerial view across Sydney Harbour from the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk — Sydney Harbour looks stunning atop the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

The lookout is named after Arabanoo, an Aboriginal man who was abducted from Manly, on Governor Arthur Phillip’s orders, to act as an intermediary between the new government and local Aboriginal peoples. On your way through you will also pass by Fairlight Lookout, Dobroyd Head Lookout and Dobroyd Lower Lookout; all with picturesque views and incredible photo opportunities.

boats docked across Sydney Harbour — Boats and yachts are moored across Sydney Harbour. (Image: Destination NSW)

Dobroyd Head to Manly

Distance: five kilometres (approximate)

The final section of the track comprises a mix of bushland, coastal track and residential area. Accordingly, it’s more exposed without the canopy’s shade, so a hat is particularly important here.

While facilities across this whole track are limited, there are more options in this final section, with toilets available at Reef Beach, Forty Baskets Beach, North Harbour Reserve and Fairlight Beach.

friends enjoying a walk along Forty Baskets Beach,Balgowlah — Go for a stroll along the Forty Baskets Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

To celebrate passing the halfway point, stop for a refreshing swim at Reef Bay. Keep an eye out for an ice cream vendor boat that roams the beaches. Like an ice cream truck on land, you’ll hear the bell and know it’s coming, giving you enough time to find some money (cards are also accepted).

Further along at Forty Basket Beach, you’ll find an enclosed swimming bath and a children’s playground. The beaches from here onwards tend to be busier, as there is nearby car access. Forty Beans Cafe is accessible and can be found at the North Harbour reserve, so pop in for a coffee or to grab a bite.

This marks a shift in the trail towards residential areas, so keep an eye out for signs to ensure you are following the correct street. Eventually, you will rejoin the coast, replacing the bush with a backdrop of houses and apartments.

stunning coastal views of the Manly Ferry passing through Sydney Harbour from Dobroyd Head, Balgowlah Heights — The view above Dobroyd Head is nothing short of spectacular. (Image: Destination NSW)

Bustling Fairlight Beach attracts swimmers, snorkelers and those wanting to relax on the sand. Head further along to smaller Delwood Beach to swim with less crowds. You’ll also see signs for penguins – yes, little penguins call Delwood Beach and Manly home. It’s only a small penguin colony, and numbers are sadly diminishing each year. The penguins return to Manly for breeding between May and February and are most likely spotted at sunset when they return to their burrows.

Make your way towards Manly Wharf, where the coastal trail ends, and soak in the vibrant Manly atmosphere. If you would like to extend your walk further and complete the whole Manly Scenic Walkway, consider undertaking the North Head circuit.

Beginning above Shelly Beach and looping around North Head, this eight-kilometre walk brings the total distance of the Walkway track to 20 kilometres.

Manly has a wealth of fun and dynamic activities to do, there’s so much to see and enjoy. Head to Manly Beach or stop for a drink at one of Manly’s cafes or pubs: you’ve certainly earned it!

a couple sitting by the wharf at Forty Baskets Beach — Sit by the wharf at Forty Baskets Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take?

Walking usually takes between 3.5 and four hours, without breaks. This is a Grade three track, meaning it is moderate to challenging. There are parts with sand, paved walkways, trails and boardwalks. There is an alternate dog route track available, which doesn’t enter the national park, and takes approximately two hours.

a wooden boardwalk along the Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk — Find paved walkways and boardwalks on your journey to Manly. (Image: lrosebrugh via Getty Images)

How to get there and back?

While you can begin from either The Spit or Manly, a popular option is to begin at the Spit and finish at Manly, where the lively atmosphere and ocean make the perfect place to relax after the long walk. This route is also the easiest for public transport, as there are regular buses from Wynyard departing for the Northern Beaches.

From Manly, there are returning buses towards the city but a popular option is to catch the ferry back to Circular Quay. As there is paid parking at the Spit reserve, some walkers prefer to park at The Spit, complete the track and catch a bus back to where they started.

an aerial view of Manly Cove from the Manly to Spit Walk in Sydney Harbour National Park — Ferries go between Manly and Circular Quay. (Image: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW)

Parking tips?

Due to its popularity, we recommend arriving early to nab a park. There are two car parking areas at The Spit: Spit West car park and Spit East reserve.

Manly has council-owned parking garages where you can park for free for a set number of hours, however, the walk is anticipated to take double this amount of time, so plan ahead. Manly also has timed and paid street parking options, and some free street parking far from the beach.

a scenic view from Spit Bridge to Manly walk — Rewarding views await you. (Image: dalal nizam)

Once you’ve tackled this walk, consider exploring another one of Sydney’s magical coastal walks.

Whales breaching, fires crackling and slow-cooked feasts that make the cold so cosy, one might wish it lasted longer. Winter is no time to stay at home in NSW.

When the mercury drops, winter in NSW comes into its own. Beaches are quieter, the air is crisper and hearty food tastes even better when there’s ice on the windows.

Winter here isn’t for hiding away. It’s for long walks, deep baths, deeper reds and the kind of fireside lounging that feels simultaneously indulgent and entirely deserved after a day of exploring. From whale-watching up north to moodily lit bushwalks and pastry pilgrimages, we’ve mapped out your new favourite season.

a beach winter in nsw — From coastal walks to tasty delights, winter in NSW is a time to get out and about.

The Tweed

In winter, the NSW north coast has a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest migrations. From May to November, humpbacks cruise past the Tweed coast between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Spot them from the Cabarita Beach headland or get up closer with a boat cruise.

Inland, find the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre , which is home to a rotating cast of big-name exhibitions (including Monet).

Later, grab a table at Bistro Livi , where the modern Spanish menu features whipped salt cod on toast and spanner crab with curry butter and spelt flatbread. Stick around to poke through the artist studios and indie boutiques of M|Arts Precinct .

visitors at Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre — Browse the art. (Image: Destination NSW)

The next day, jump aboard the Indigenous Lunch Cruise with Tweed Escapes. You’ll cruise upriver listening to yarns from local Indigenous guides, stop at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Museum and tuck into lemon myrtle-crusted snapper.

Next, drive out to Farm & Co to pull apart some juicy smoked lamb shoulder with green olive tapenade while gazing out over the macadamia fields and avocado groves of this working farm.

End the day at Mantra on Salt Beach where you’ll enjoy beach access, a heated rock spa and a lagoon pool.

dining room at Bistro Livi — Taste modern Spanish at Bistro Livi.

Blue Mountains

The cold season is hands down the best time to visit the Blue Mountains. Temperatures are perfect – sunny enough for hikes, and crisp enough at night for snuggling up.

For a trip that equally soothes and stirs, start with a meditative meander through the national park’s eucalypts and Australian wildflowers. Brave the steepest passenger railway in the world, Scenic Railway , then hop the Skyway aerial cable car for unrivalled Three Sisters views.

Thaw out at the Japanese Bath House in South Bowenfels. Soak in steamy outdoor onsens filled with natural mineral water and mountain views, wander the rose and zen gardens, or sip hot drinks in the tea house.

group leader at Blue Mountains Stargazing — Rug up for Blue Mountains Stargazing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Afterwards, head to Ates in Blackheath, where everything revolves around a 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven – like the wood-roasted duck with nectarines and Szechuan spice. Or visit Tempus Katoomba , which leans experimental and sustainable, serving up dishes like braised fennel with cumin, spiced yogurt and Aleppo pepper.

Rug up and head into the night with Blue Mountains Stargazing . Sessions are guided by astrophysicists, helping you understand what you’re looking at as you look into deep space.

Wrap it all up at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery Collection . There’s a whiskey bar in the basement (and crackling fires that make a dram taste even better), indoor and outdoor pools and a day spa. Kids will love the mirror maze and ice rink, too.

dishes laid out on table at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains — End the day with delicious meals at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Southern Highlands

Good food and wine by the fire, experienced between sifting through second-hand treasures, is a winter vibe in Bowral.

Start with a lap around Dirty Janes , an antique and vintage market. Recover from your shopping frenzy at Bendooley Book Barn , where floor-to-ceiling shelves and a roaring fire set the tone for an afternoon of red wine or hot coffee.

When it’s time to eat, head to Hickory’s Restaurant & Bar , Peppers Craigieburn Bowral’s onsite restaurant. Try the crispy pork belly with Granny Smith crisps and apple gel, or ocean trout with wakame, lemon gel and pickled radish.

couple looking through Dirty Janes in bowral — Wander the antiques at Dirty Janes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another option, Onesta Cucina , does Italian with flair. For something more casual (with cocktails), Flour Bar swings between brunch and dinner, with an onsite bakery, over 400 wines and a hidden deli in the old bank vault.

Later, clamber Mt Gibraltar , where trails wind through eucalypt forest to views over Bowral and Mittagong.

Stay at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral , a century-old estate with open fires, elegant lounges and a nine-hole golf course.

woman and her dog winter in nsw at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral — Stay cosy at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral.

Penrith

Shake off winter inertia with an adrenaline boost out in Penrith. Kick things off with a kayak paddle on the Nepean River with Horizon Line, or head to Cables Wake Park , where cold-weather wetsuits take the edge off a wipeout.

For something a bit more cruisy, opt for the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler for slow-floating views and a hot cuppa.

kayakers on the nepean river in penrith — Head out on the Nepean River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Refuel at Marcel Bar & Bistro , where reimagined European comfort food – like seafood risotto in bisque with little neck clams and Moreton Bay bugs – is king. Then check in at the Pullman Sydney Penrith , the area’s first international five-star hotel, to enjoy your well-earned rest.

Start planning your NSW winter getaway at all.com.

A guide to the coastal Spit to Manly Walk