Itinerary: Watsons Bay and Manly

Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia Taken by Enoch Lau on 20 July 2004.
Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia Taken by Enoch Lau on 20 July 2004.

Sightseeing in Sydney? With three different ferry services to must-see Sydney Harbour locations, unlimited travel on Manly Fast Ferry, highest service frequency and longest operating hours, the My Fast Ferry 24-hour Hop On / Hop Off Pass offers excellent value, all in one pass.

9:25 – Board the Hop On / Hop Off at Circular Quay for Taronga Zoo

Operating a 24hr Hop On / Hop Off fast ferry service, the My Fast Ferry Hop On / Hop Off offers great value with three different ferry services included in one pass, stopping at must-see Sydney locations, including Manly, Darling Harbour, Watsons Bay and Taronga Zoo.

9:53 - Disembark at Watsons Bay 

Located in the Eastern suburbs, Watson’s Bay is Sydney’s oldest fishing village, famous for its spectacular Harbour views and fresh seafood. You’ll be just in time to join a Watsons Bay Stand Up Paddling (WATSUP) school for a 60-90 minute lesson on learning to stand up paddle board, suitable for all ages and levels.

Prefer to stay on dry land? Take a stroll along one of two walking paths from the wharf; the Watson’s Bay Walk runs north past Lady Bay, and on to South Head where on route you’ll see the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean and the historic Hornby Lighthouse. Or head south towards Gap Park and take in Signal Station, Macquarie Lighthouse, the site of the wreck of Dunbar, as you traverse along coastal clifftops.

Once you’ve built up an appetite, head to Doyle’s Restaurant to sample their popular fish and chips, or Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, for waterfront dining.

15:09 or 16:10 – Board the Hop On / Hop Off at Watsons Bay to Manly Wharf 2.

15:27 or 16:26 – Disembark at Manly Wharf 2 

With its famous surf breaks, golden stretch of 2km sand line with Norfolk Pines, and relaxed beachside vibe, it’s hard to believe Manly is only an 18-minute ferry ride from the bustle of Sydney CBD. Explore the esplanade and walking trails by foot or rent a bike, snorkel the azure waters around Shelley Beach and Cabbage Tree Bay, or rent a kayak and paddle to Store Beach before working up an appetite and grabbing dinner at one of Manly's casual or fine dining restaurants. Use the My NRMA app to search for food and drink options nearby.

20:30 – 21:30 – Board the Fast Ferry back to Circular Quay

From out of town? Plan your trip to Sydney

Accommodation: We recommend you’re centrally located during your trip to make the most of your visit, as several of Sydney’s highlights can be taken in for free or cheaply, simply by walking around. Don't forget, NRMA members save on stays at Travelodge and NRMA holiday parks and resorts.

My NRMA app: Find and save on your nearest fuel and parking, and discover nearby member benefits on the My NRMA app. 

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