Shelly Beach Manly Sydney
A protected marine reserve in Manly, renowned for its vibrant underwater life and scenic coastal walks. Perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Shelly Beach Manly Sydney
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected marine reserve in Manly, renowned for its vibrant underwater life and scenic coastal walks. Perfect for snorkeling and diving.
"Shelly Beach is the local secret you’ll wish you found sooner."
🐠 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear in Manly for an easy exploration of Cabbage Tree Bay's marine life.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Path
Walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach for stunning views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underwater Marine Life
Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
Discover a vibrant underwater world with diverse fish, coral, and even occasional cuttlefish and sharks. Perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Scenic Coastal Walk
Manly Beach to Shelly Beach
Enjoy a picturesque 20-minute stroll along the coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze.
Fairy Bower Pool
Adjacent to Shelly Beach
A charming, historic ocean pool offering a sheltered spot for a swim with beautiful surroundings.
Planning Your Visit
Snorkel Paradise Awaits
Manly Beach to Shelly Beach Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear in Manly for an easy exploration of Cabbage Tree Bay's marine life.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Path
Walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach for stunning views.
🦈 Marine Reserve Awareness
Shelly Beach is a protected marine reserve; observe wildlife respectfully.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The Australian sun is strong; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent snorkel gear in Manly for an easy exploration of Cabbage Tree Bay's marine life.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Path
Walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach for stunning views.
🦈 Marine Reserve Awareness
Shelly Beach is a protected marine reserve; observe wildlife respectfully.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The Australian sun is strong; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your waterproof camera for incredible underwater shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shelly Beach is widely praised as a hidden gem in Manly, particularly for its exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities within the protected marine reserve. Visitors love the vibrant underwater life and the scenic coastal walk to reach it. Some find parking challenging and note the lack of direct amenities at the beach itself.
"Shelly beach was a great spot to swim! There are great shower and bathroom facilities just next to the beach, and the water was lovely. Lots of snorkelers, surfers and swimmers around."
Meredith M
"Shelly Beach feels like a little lagoon at the edge of the city. The walk from Manly builds the anticipation, then the headland opens and you see a neat curve of sand, rock shelves on both sides and water that often looks as clear as glass. Mornings are lovely here. Locals filter in with masks and fins, kids do the sand shuffle at the shoreline, and you can hear the low boom of swell on the outer reef while the bay itself stays calm. It is one of those places where you drop your towel, take a breath and feel the pace of the day soften.
Bring a snorkel if you can. This is part of a marine reserve, and it shows. Float over ribbons of kelp and scattered boulders and you will usually spot schools of sweep and mado, the odd ray sliding across the sand and, if you are lucky, a blue groper cruising like it owns the place. Entry from the sand is simple and friendly for beginners. On days with a little surge, fins help and it pays to stay closer to the centre of the bay. The water clarity can be excellent after a run of light winds, so early starts often reward you with the best visibility and fewer people.
Everything you need sits close by. There are toilets, showers and taps behind the beach, barbecues and picnic tables tucked under the trees, and a café at the back for coffee or something cold between swims. Shade on the sand is limited, so a hat, water and sunscreen make life easier. Parking on nearby streets fills quickly on sunny weekends; the ferry to Manly and a short stroll along the path is the stress free option. Leave nothing but footprints, give the wildlife space and linger a little after your swim. Watching the colour of the bay shift while you warm up on the rocks is half the joy of Shelly."
Le Hoang Giap
"Nice and quiet beach close to the manly national park. Nice sunset and view of the bay.
The walk to get there is as beautiful as the beach.
Fun to spot all the little sculptures in the rock along the way!!"
Isma Marc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic way is to take a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf. From there, it's a pleasant 20-minute walk along the coast, passing Manly Beach, to reach Shelly Beach.
Limited street parking is available near Shelly Beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Consider parking in Manly town and walking.
Yes, absolutely! The walk is about 20 minutes and offers beautiful coastal views. It's a popular and highly recommended route.
Walking is the most enjoyable method, offering stunning ocean vistas. It's a short and rewarding journey.
While ferries get you to Manly, the best way to reach Shelly Beach from Manly Wharf is by walking. Buses are available within Manly but walking is preferred for this route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Shelly Beach is a public beach and a marine reserve, so there is no entrance fee to access it.
Shelly Beach is accessible at all times, as it's a public beach. However, facilities like snorkel hire may have specific operating hours.
No booking is required to visit Shelly Beach itself. If you plan on taking a guided snorkeling tour, booking in advance is recommended.
No permits are required for recreational snorkeling in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve at Shelly Beach.
Dogs are generally not permitted on Manly's main beaches, including Shelly Beach, to protect the marine environment and for public safety.
🎫 🐠 Snorkeling & Diving
Yes, Shelly Beach is renowned for its excellent snorkeling. It's part of the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, teeming with marine life.
You can rent snorkeling equipment in Manly town, often near the ferry terminal or along the Corso. Some local operators also offer rentals.
Expect to see a variety of fish species, colorful corals, sea urchins, and sometimes even cuttlefish, blue groper, and grey nurse sharks. 
Yes, the waters are generally calm and shallow near the shore, making it suitable for beginners. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, several operators offer guided snorkeling tours, which can enhance your experience by pointing out marine life and providing expert guidance.
📸 📸 Photography
The underwater scenes while snorkeling are incredible. The coastal walk offers panoramic ocean views, and Fairy Bower Pool provides a picturesque setting.
Absolutely! Shelly Beach is perfect for underwater photography. Bring a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case to capture the marine life.
Mornings often offer calmer waters and softer light for both underwater and landscape photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in marine reserves and national parks to protect wildlife and ensure public safety. Check local regulations before flying.
A waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is ideal for underwater shots. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive coastal views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no direct dining facilities at Shelly Beach itself. However, Manly town offers a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and bars.
You can find numerous dining options in Manly town, including casual cafes and Mexican restaurants like Chica Bonita.
Yes, picnics are welcome at Shelly Beach. There are grassy areas nearby where you can relax and enjoy your meal. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Manly offers diverse cuisine, from fresh seafood and casual beachside eats to international flavors.
Yes, many eateries in Manly offer takeaway options, perfect for enjoying a picnic by the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas, as there are no cafes directly at the beach. The walk from Manly Beach is also manageable for families, with plenty of scenic spots to rest. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and hats, as the Australian sun can be intense.
🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts
Many visitors recommend guided tours for a more in-depth experience, as local guides can point out hidden marine life and share insights about the ecosystem. The clarity of the water, especially in the mornings, makes for excellent visibility.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Once at Shelly Beach, you can combine your visit with snorkeling or simply relax on the sand. The area is also popular for swimming and enjoying the ocean.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
Popular sightings include the vibrant blue groper, the Australian giant cuttlefish, and various reef fish. Keep an eye out for grey nurse sharks in the deeper areas near Blue Fish Point, though they are generally harmless and a sign of a healthy marine environment. The reserve is a testament to conservation efforts and offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with Sydney's underwater natural beauty.
+1Remember to practice responsible tourism by not touching marine life or coral, and by taking all your litter with you. The health of this reserve depends on the respect shown by its visitors.
The Iconic Walk from Manly to Shelly Beach
As you stroll, you'll pass by the charming Fairy Bower Pool, a historic ocean bath that's perfect for a refreshing dip. The path is generally easy to navigate, making it accessible for most fitness levels. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the rugged coastline and the transition from the popular Manly Beach to the more secluded Shelly Beach.
This walk is particularly enjoyable in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are thinner, or in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the water. It’s a quintessential Manly experience that shouldn't be missed.
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