Snorkeling at Shelly Beach

Nestled in Manly, a suburb of Sydney, lies a local favourite treasure that’s a paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts and marine life admirers alike – Shelly Beach. The only west-facing beach on the east coast, it’s not just a place to bask in the warm Australian sun or enjoy picnics but also a gateway to an incredible underwater world teeming with biodiversity.

Marine life at Shelly Beach

The Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve envelops Shelly Beach, making it a protected sanctuary for diverse marine life. You’re likely to encounter the charismatic Blue Groper, New South Wales’ aquatic emblem, along with a myriad of other species including Cuttlefish, octopus, and countless species of fish, each more vibrant than the last. Keep your eyes peeled for Weedy Sea Dragons, an elusive and enchanting species that is a sight to behold.

During the winter months (May and October), Shelly Beach becomes a hot spot for Port Jackson Sharks. During this period, these sharks migrate to shallow coastal waters for breeding. They are nocturnal creatures, so early morning or late afternoon dives often yield the best sightings. During nighttime, the sharks return to their resting spots after nighttime foraging.

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Remember, the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is a no-take zone, meaning fishing or collecting is not permitted – it’s all about appreciating these creatures in their natural habitat. Pay special attention to the rock wall on the right-hand side of the beach; it’s a well-loved spot amongst divers and snorkelers, teeming with marine life.

How to get to Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach Manly is easily accessible from Sydney city centre and the journey itself is part of the fun. It features stunning views and a taste of the famous Sydney Harbour.

Start your journey by catching a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf. The ferries run regularly, approximately every half an hour. Check the timetable to plan your day accordingly. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and gifts you with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This delightful cruise is often a highlight for many visitors and a fantastic photo opportunity.

Once you’ve arrived at Manly Wharf, you’re just a short walk away from Shelly Beach (See walking map here). Simply head south and follow the promenade along Manly Beach. This walk will take you around the Fairy Bower Pool. Continue along Marine Parade and you’ll soon arrive at Shelly Beach. The entire walk from Manly Wharf to Shelly Beach is approximately 20 minutes, so it’s quite manageable even if you’re carrying snorkelling gear.

If you’re driving, there’s limited parking available at Shelly Beach itself, and additional parking can be found in the nearby streets of Manly. Do remember to check the parking signs as time limits and fees may apply.

For those using public transportation, buses are available from Sydney CBD to Manly. Once in Manly, you can follow the same walking route from Manly Wharf to Shelly Beach.

What facilities are available

Shelly Beach in Manly has been thoughtfully equipped to ensure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The beach features a grassy park area which is perfect for picnics and casual games. Picnic tables are scattered around the park, and electric barbecues are available free of charge for those wanting to enjoy a cookout with a view.

For convenience, public restrooms and showers are available for beach-goers to freshen up after their beach adventures. If you’re not in the mood for a picnic, you can head over to The Boathouse Shelly Beach, a beachfront restaurant offering fresh, modern Australian cuisine in a stunning setting. Parking is also available at the beach, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.

At the time of writing of this article, the shower and restroom block is undergoing renovation for summer, we expect they will be up and running for summer, but will keep that updated here for sure.

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