
Spit West Reserve
Scenic waterfront reserve offering stunning harbour views, a popular starting point for the Spit to Manly walk, and a haven for marine life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets

Spit West Reserve
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic waterfront reserve offering stunning harbour views, a popular starting point for the Spit to Manly walk, and a haven for marine life.
"An exceptional reserve! The breathtaking scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and abundant wildlife make this place a paradise."

🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is paid hourly. Have change or check meter options.
🐶 Off-Leash Dog Area
Enjoy the grassed area with your dog off-leash.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spit Bridge Views
Waterfront
Witness the iconic Spit Bridge lift for passing boats – a unique Sydney spectacle.

Living Boulders
Seawalls
Discover artificial boulders designed to boost marine life and biodiversity.

Sunset Spectacle
Waterfront
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the water, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.

Spit to Manly Walk Start
Trailhead
Begin the scenic 10km coastal trek to Manly, passing beautiful beaches and lookouts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Best Time for Views & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is paid hourly. Have change or check meter options.
🐶 Off-Leash Dog Area
Enjoy the grassed area with your dog off-leash.
🚶♀️ Spit to Manly Trail
Great starting point for the 10km walk. Check National Park sections.
🌅 Sunset Views
Perfect spot for evening walks and stunning sunset photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is paid hourly. Have change or check meter options.
🐶 Off-Leash Dog Area
Enjoy the grassed area with your dog off-leash.
🚶♀️ Spit to Manly Trail
Great starting point for the 10km walk. Check National Park sections.
🌅 Sunset Views
Perfect spot for evening walks and stunning sunset photos.
🛥️ Watch the Bridge Lift
See the Spit Bridge open for boats – a cool sight!
🐠 Explore Marine Life
Check out the 'Living Boulders' habitat for marine organisms.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Spit West Reserve for its breathtaking scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and abundant wildlife, making it a true gem. It's a great spot for evening walks, dog-friendly activities, and enjoying the water. Some note that parking is paid and monitored.
"An exceptional reserve! The breathtaking scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and abundant wildlife make this place a paradise. Impeccable service, knowledgeable guides, and top-notch facilities. A true gem worth every moment. Highly recommended!"
Alex Zajicek
"Great spot for an evening walk with the dog. Play on the grassed area or walk the easy trail and enjoy the views. Fishing seems a popular pastime, as is kayaking or snorkelling in the bay."
Marcelle Armstrong
"Nice place to chill for the evening. Make sure to pay parking if you are a visitor. They check the meters ."
Vince C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park (paid parking available) or take public transport. Buses frequently service the area.
Yes, there is paid parking available. Be sure to check the meter rates and pay accordingly, as they are monitored.
Yes, several bus routes stop near Spit West Reserve, making it accessible without a car.
While walking and jogging are popular, dedicated cycling paths might be limited. It's more geared towards pedestrian activities and enjoying the waterfront.
Taking a bus from the Sydney CBD is a convenient option. Alternatively, driving offers direct access but comes with parking fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to access the reserve itself, but parking is charged hourly.
Spit West Reserve is generally accessible during daylight hours, though specific facilities like toilets may have their own schedules. It's a public park.
No advance booking is required for general access. If you plan a large event, you might need to check with local council regulations.
Parking is typically on an hourly rate. For frequent visitors or longer stays, check with Mosman Council for any potential parking permits or day passes, though this is not commonly advertised for short visits.
The Spit to Manly walk itself is free to access. However, you will need to pay for parking at the start or end points if you drive.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, dog walking (off-leash in designated areas), fishing, kayaking, snorkelling, and simply relaxing by the water. It's also the start of the Spit to Manly walk.
Yes, public toilets are available within the Marina building.
Yes, it has a playground and open grassy areas, making it suitable for families. It's also fenced in parts.
Yes, it's a great spot for dog walking, with an off-leash area on the grass.
These are specially designed artificial boulders installed to create habitats for marine life, enhancing biodiversity along the coastline.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets over the water, the iconic Spit Bridge, and the diverse marine life around the 'Living Boulders'. The start of the Spit to Manly walk also offers scenic coastal shots.
Yes, drone enthusiasts can capture sweeping aerial views of the harbour, bridge, and coastline. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Golden hour, especially during sunset, provides beautiful lighting. Midday can be good for clear shots of the bridge and water activities.
General photography is permitted. Be mindful of private property and individuals if photographing closely.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the bridge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant boats or wildlife. A drone offers unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can also take advantage of the public toilets located within the Marina building. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the initial, flatter sections of the Spit to Manly walk are manageable for older children, offering a taste of coastal trekking without being too strenuous.
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spit to Manly Walk
Along the trail, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, and several beautiful beaches like Reef Beach and Forty Baskets Beach, which are perfect for a refreshing dip or a picnic stop. The path is well-maintained for the most part, but sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Many visitors choose to start at Spit West Reserve and finish at Manly Wharf, where they can then catch a ferry back to the city, making for a convenient and memorable day trip. The walk is free to access, but remember that parking at the reserve is paid.
Marine Life and Conservation
This project builds on the success of similar installations in Sydney, demonstrating how urban coastlines can be ecologically enhanced. Visitors can observe these boulders and learn about their role in supporting a healthier marine ecosystem. It's a great educational opportunity for those interested in marine biology and conservation.
Beyond the Living Boulders, the clear waters of the harbour also offer opportunities for snorkelling and observing marine life. The reserve's location in Middle Harbour provides a relatively sheltered environment, making it conducive to a range of aquatic activities and wildlife spotting.
Recreational Activities
It's also a popular destination for dog owners, with a designated off-leash area on the grass, allowing pets to play freely. The calm waters of Middle Harbour make it a prime location for kayaking and boating, with many visitors launching their vessels from the reserve. Fishing is another popular pastime here.
Families will appreciate the playground facilities, making it a great spot for children to play while adults relax and enjoy the water views. The combination of natural beauty and accessible amenities ensures there's something for everyone at Spit West Reserve.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit