Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia

Only a stone’s throw from Sydney, Manly Beach is a great option for getting away from the hustle and bustle of Australia’s largest city. Sydney residents often prefer it over some of the closer beaches (like Bondi), as it's quieter and less popular with tourists. Towards sunset on a weekday, you might even have the whole beach to yourself.

The quiet ocean side hamlet of Manley is only a quick thirty minute ferry ride from Sydney's main terminal at Circular Quay. The waves here are some of the finest in New South Wales, and on a sunny day, it's not unusual to see a substantial number of surfers waiting for that perfect wave. Even more than the surf, however, it's the white sand and huge Norfolk pines set Manly apart from the other beaches in the Sydney metro area.

Surfing isn't the only opportunity for fun in Manly, however. Other activities include kayaking, beach volleyball, and scuba diving. Numerous companies operate tours, including an informative nature cruise. There’s even an academy for volleyball, if you’re interested in improving your spiking and setting.

Within walking distance of Manly lies Shelley Beach, well known as the only beach in Australia to face inland. It's also a prime spot for scuba diving, offering you a great chance of finding your own little Nemo.

After a full day of fun and sun, retire to the town for a range of dining choices, along with a number of drinking establishments to take care of any of those surfing bruises. There's also an array of accommodations, from inexpensive hostels to the glamorous Manly Resort. Wherever you stay, Manly is sure to live up to its motto as a beach "seven miles from Sydney, a thousand miles from care."