Shelly Beach

Perhaps one of the smaller beaches in Sydney, Shelly Beach is also one of the most lovely. Tucked away just around the corner from the well-renowned Manly Beach, 'Shelly' is a peaceful and home to always calm waters making it the perfect place for young children or those not wanting to make a splash in the waves. Shelly Beach, as it's name suggests, is made of shells ground down into coarse sand, but you can still find plenty of whole shells here too ' a great place for sand castle building and decorating! Nestled between rocky shores, this tiny bay offers a narrow beach, but the sand extends pretty far back from the water's edge, and a big grassy area extending beyond that so even at high tide, there is still plenty of room to find a place to settle in for the afternoon.

If you enjoy a spectacular view, then walk just a few minutes further along the Shelly Beach walking track and you will not be disappointed. Just a few hundred meters along the small walking track you will find yourself on top of the cliffs of the headland with uninterrupted views out across the ocean. A stunning place for a few moments to breathe in the fresh ocean air and soak in the beauty that surrounds you.

Being a little out of the way of the Manly strip means that there are less amenities right at Shelly Beach, but this usually means a few less people as well so this might suit you perfectly. Also, it's worth noting that all the conveniences of Manly are not more than a 10 minute walk away so you can enjoy this tiny beach knowing these things aren't too far away, and there is a toilet block and showers so you can freshen up before going home or walking into Manly. The Boathouse Shelly Beach kiosk and restaurant is also positioned perfectly for those wanting to spend a long lazy afternoon here. With a takeaway kiosk offering snacks, burgers, fish and chips, and healthy smoothies as well as ice-creams, they have all your needs covered. Or if you'd prefer a sit down meal and a break for the sun, you can enjoy a mouth-watering array of Mediterranean inspired meals and perhaps wash it down with a delicious glass or two of wine as well. This is a place you could easily spend hours listening to the waves and soaking in the fresh sea air. You might never want to leave.