Spit Bridge Sydney
A functional road bridge and gateway to a stunning 10km coastal walk with harbour views and Aboriginal heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Spit Bridge Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A functional road bridge and gateway to a stunning 10km coastal walk with harbour views and Aboriginal heritage.
"The Spit to Manly walk is a must-do for its breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes."
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) to bypass heavy traffic around the bridge .
🚶♀️ Bus Stop Strategy
Get off the bus before the bridge for more options and easier access to the walk .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spit Bridge to Manly Walk
Starts at the Spit Bridge
A stunning 10km coastal trek with diverse scenery, hidden beaches, and Aboriginal rock engravings.

Panoramic Harbour Views
Various points along the Spit to Manly walk
Breathtaking vistas of Sydney Harbour, the city skyline, and the iconic Spit Bridge itself.

Aboriginal Rock Engravings
Along the Spit to Manly walk
Discover ancient Indigenous art etched into the sandstone, offering a glimpse into Australia's rich history.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Spit Bridge Visit
Navigating the Spit Bridge Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) to bypass heavy traffic around the bridge.
🚶♀️ Bus Stop Strategy
Get off the bus before the bridge for more options and easier access to the walk.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for the 10km Spit to Manly walk, which includes varied terrain.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot?
While illegal, some try fishing here for jewfish or squid due to deep water funnels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) to bypass heavy traffic around the bridge.
🚶♀️ Bus Stop Strategy
Get off the bus before the bridge for more options and easier access to the walk.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for the 10km Spit to Manly walk, which includes varied terrain.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot?
While illegal, some try fishing here for jewfish or squid due to deep water funnels.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal and harbour panoramas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and diverse scenery of the Spit Bridge to Manly walk, highlighting its hidden beaches and Aboriginal heritage. While the walk is a major draw, the bridge itself is often noted for causing significant traffic delays, a common frustration for locals and visitors alike.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Several bus routes serve the Spit Bridge area from Sydney CBD. Routes like the B-Line are popular, but be mindful of where you alight. Some Reddit users suggest getting off before the bridge to access more bus options and avoid a tricky footpath situation.
Check transport apps for the most current routes and schedules.Limited parking is available near the Spit Bridge, especially for those starting the Spit to Manly walk. It can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends. Consider public transport if possible to avoid parking hassles.
You can start the walk from the Spit Bridge side. Buses from the CBD will drop you near the bridge, and you can follow the signs for the coastal track. Alternatively, you can start from Manly and walk towards the Spit.
Yes, Spit Bridge is a functional road bridge connecting the Northern Beaches to the city. However, it experiences significant traffic congestion during peak hours, making driving a less ideal option for many.
The Spit Bridge itself is a road and accessible by vehicles. The Spit to Manly walk, however, has varied terrain and is not fully accessible for wheelchairs or prams in all sections. Some parts are paved, while others are dirt tracks and stairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Spit Bridge to Manly walk is a public access trail and does not require tickets or entry fees. You can enjoy the stunning scenery and diverse landscapes for free.
The bridge itself is a public road and free to cross. The primary activity associated with the bridge, the Spit to Manly walk, is also free. Parking in the vicinity may incur fees.
Spit Bridge is a road bridge and is open 24/7 for vehicular traffic. The drawbridge mechanism operates on demand for marine vessels, which can cause temporary traffic delays.
Unlike the Sydney Harbour Bridge, there is no official 'climb' experience for the Spit Bridge. The main attraction is the scenic walk that starts near it.
The Pylon Lookout is associated with the Sydney Harbour Bridge, not the Spit Bridge. For the Spit Bridge area, the main attraction is the free coastal walk.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Spit Bridge to Manly walk is approximately 10 kilometers and typically takes 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots as the trail has varied terrain, including stairs and uneven paths. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, and bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Yes, there are public toilets and picnic areas at various points along the walk, including some beautiful beaches. It's advisable to carry water and snacks, though.
Yes, there are several beautiful beaches along the walk where you can swim, such as Castle Rock Beach and Shelly Beach (near Manly). Remember to swim between the flags if lifeguards are present.
You might spot various bird species, lizards, and if you're lucky, dolphins in the harbour. The diverse flora also adds to the natural beauty of the walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The Spit Bridge itself offers a unique perspective, especially when it's open for boats. However, the most iconic photo opportunities are found along the Spit to Manly walk, with stunning harbour vistas, hidden coves, and the bridge in the distance.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography around the Spit Bridge and along the coastal walk. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the harbour.
Drone usage is restricted in many areas around Sydney Harbour and national parks. Always check the latest CASA regulations and local signage before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbour views and coastal landscapes. A zoom lens can be useful for wildlife or details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots or long exposures of the water.
The best vantage points to photograph the bridge opening are from the foreshore areas near the bridge itself. Be prepared for potential traffic disruptions if you're driving.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spit to Manly Coastal Walk
Walkers can expect a mix of paved paths, sandy tracks, and some stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must. The trail winds through native bushland, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. Popular stops include Castle Rock Beach for a refreshing dip and the picturesque Manly Cove as you approach your destination.
Getting there is straightforward. Buses from Sydney CBD frequently stop near the Spit Bridge. Some Reddit users advise getting off the bus before the bridge to access more direct routes and avoid a less-than-ideal footpath section. Upon arrival in Manly, you can easily catch a ferry back to Circular Quay, completing a perfect Sydney adventure.
Spit Bridge: A Functional Landmark
While the bridge itself is a functional piece of engineering, its aesthetic appeal is often overshadowed by its role in daily commutes. However, its position offers unique perspectives for photographers, especially when the bridge is raised. The surrounding waters and the approach to the Northern Beaches provide a scenic backdrop that is best appreciated from the nearby coastal walk.
For those interested in the mechanics of the bridge, observing its operation can be fascinating. However, for most visitors, the bridge serves as a gateway to the more celebrated natural attractions in its vicinity, particularly the renowned Spit to Manly coastal walk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit