Spit Bridge, Sydney - bridge at night
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Spit Bridge Sydney

4.6
·491k reviews·, Australia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Spit Bridge, Sydney - bridge at night

Spit Bridge Sydney

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Spit to Manly walk is a must-do for its breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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 .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spit Bridge to Manly Walk

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

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

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

The Spit Bridge is a crucial artery for Northern Beaches commuters. Expect significant traffic delays, especially during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM weekdays). Consider visiting outside these times or opting for public transport to avoid the 'shitshow'.Reddit

Navigating the Spit Bridge Area

While the bridge itself is a functional road, the real draw is the surrounding coastal walk. If using public transport, be aware that some buses may not stop directly at the bridge, requiring a short walk to the trailhead.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Taking 2 strangers to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge! @BridgeClimb Sydney
@slickpup
241.3K likes • 2.4M views

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Avoid peak commute hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) to bypass heavy traffic around the bridge.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Bus Stop Strategy

Get off the bus before the bridge for more options and easier access to the walk.Reddit

Dont spend hundres of dollars on the bridge climb, climb the pylon instead #sydneyaustralia #circularquay #sydneyharbour #sydneyviews #irishinoz #irishinsydney
@emilyveramckee
70.7K likes • 1.6M views
a beautiful coastal walk 💫 📍 Spit to Manly walk near Sydney 🚌 A bus takes you straight from CBD to Spit where you can start the walk 🌊 Then you can just follow the signs for the walk #fyp #explore #c...
ariannazzzz
95 likes • 2K views

👟 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.Reddit

🌿 This is a Sydney favorite ! Come hike with me on the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk! 🥾 This 10km trail, with stunning views, hidden beaches, and glimpses of Aboriginal rock engravings is a must-do in S...
yukasadventure
73 likes • 1.8K views

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.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Bus Stop Strategy

Get off the bus before the bridge for more options and easier access to the walk.Reddit

👟 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.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning coastal and harbour panoramas.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Spectacular coastal views
Beautiful beaches
Aboriginal rock engravings

What People Dislike

Traffic congestion
Bridge opening delays

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.Reddit 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.Instagram

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.TikTok

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

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

The Spit Bridge to Manly Walk is a fantastic family adventure, offering a mix of nature and exploration. While the full 10km might be challenging for very young children, families can tackle shorter sections. Look for accessible paths near the Spit Bridge or enjoy the beaches along the way. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for varied terrain.Instagram The promise of reaching Manly for fish and chips can be a great motivator!

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Spit Bridge to Manly walk is an excellent free activity for budget travelers. You can enjoy stunning harbour views and diverse scenery without spending a dime on entry fees.Instagram The main costs will be transportation to and from the start/end points, which can be kept low by utilizing Sydney's extensive bus and ferry network. Pack your own lunch and water to save on food expenses.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Spit Bridge and its surrounding coastal path offer a wealth of opportunities. Capture the iconic Spit Bridge itself, especially during its opening, or focus on the breathtaking Sydney Harbour vistas.Instagram The trail provides diverse shots, from rugged coastline to serene beaches and native flora. Golden hour light is particularly magical here, illuminating the water and landscape beautifully.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spit to Manly Coastal Walk

The Spit Bridge to Manly Walk is a quintessential Sydney experience, offering a 10km journey through diverse coastal landscapes. This trail is celebrated for its stunning harbour views, secluded beaches, and significant Aboriginal rock engravings.Instagram It's a moderate walk, generally taking 3-4 hours, making it an ideal day trip for active travelers.

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.Instagram

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.Reddit Upon arrival in Manly, you can easily catch a ferry back to Circular Quay, completing a perfect Sydney adventure.

Spit Bridge: A Functional Landmark

The Spit Bridge, completed in 1958, is a significant concrete and steel bascule road bridge that connects Sydney's central business district to the Northern Beaches suburbs. Its primary function is to facilitate road traffic, and as such, it's a vital, albeit often congested, part of Sydney's infrastructure.Reddit The bridge's drawbridge mechanism, designed to allow marine vessels to pass, is a notable feature, though it can cause considerable traffic delays for motorists.Reddit

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.Instagram

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.

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