The Optimist

Whilst at Circular Quay get a ferry or hydrofoil to Manly and see Australia's most famous beach. Manly features a wide range of tourist attractions and shops, including the Manly Wharf and Marineland. A popular place on the north of Sydney Harbour this area features a relaxed stylish atmosphere. For the active adventurer try the Manly to Spit Bridge walk, this 10 km walk takes in many beautiful beaches along the foreshore of Sydney Harbour.

Nestled between a tranquil inner-harbour beach on one side and a popular Pacific Ocean surf beach on the other, Manly manages to combine a laid-back attitude with a sophisticated dining scene and stylish boutiques. The palm-tree lined Corso leads you onto the Steyne promenade, where you can walk, roller-blade or cycle along the oceanfront. Back in 2004, it became the first local council in Sydney to declare its beaches non-smoking. There are a number of scenic walking routes that link the beaches with the national park.