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Manly, Shelly Beach Walking Track & Lookout Guide

by SydGolfnTravel 2025. 7. 4.

When it comes to Sydney’s iconic beaches, the first place that comes to mind for most travelers and locals is Manly Beach. Always bustling with surfing, beach volleyball, and a variety of water activities, this is one of the key tourist destinations in Sydney.

But just to the south lies the quieter, lesser-known Shelly Beach. Its clear waters and gentle coastline make it a popular snorkelling spot, and despite being within walking distance of Manly, it remains relatively quiet, making it a popular spot for locals.

 

Manly, Shelly Beach Walking Track & Lookout

 

About Shelly Beach Walking Track

One of the best things about Shelly Beach is the coastal walking track, which runs approximately 1km along the cliffs.

  • Track Difficulty: Easy (suitable for beginners and families)
  • Distance: Approximately 1km (round trip)
  • Time required: 20-30 minutes
  • Starting point: End of Shelly Beach
  • Parking: 4P ticket zone (parking spaces are limited, early arrival recommended)

This track is recommended as a walking course with a wide view, sea breeze, and the sound of waves, as it is right next to the sea. The path is well-maintained and can be walked with children without difficulty.

Manly, Shelly Beach Walking Track & Lookout

 

Shelly Beach Lookout: Highlight of the Track

Shelly Beach Lookout, located at the end of the track, is a key point of this walking course.

  • Views: Manly Beach, Pacific Ocean, nearby cliffs
  • Photographing: Morning or late afternoon recommended (minimize backlighting)
  • Features: Offering views overlooking both Manly's high rises and Shelly's Bay

The view from the cliff top is so untouched that it's hard to believe you're in the suburbs of Sydney, with the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, leaves swaying in the wind, and the horizon where the sea meets the sky.

Some visitors even venture into the rocky areas outside the track. If you are careful, there are opportunities to enjoy quiet, private spaces even at unofficial points.

Manly, Shelly Beach Walking Track & Lookout

Visiting Tips

  • By public transport: Approximately 15 minutes walk from Manly Wharf
  • Quietest times: before 8 am or after 4 pm
  • What to bring: sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, camera
  • Dining options: Nearby Manly beach cafes and restaurants are available

 

In conclusion

Shelly Beach Walking Track and Lookout is a quiet, nature-friendly walking trail that offers a different experience from Manly. It can be a healing point that allows you to forget the worries of everyday life for a moment while walking while looking out over the vast South Pacific Ocean and feeling the cool breeze.

You can take a leisurely walk alone or with friends, without any special plans, and the scenery you see there will be remembered differently.