Manly is best known for its ocean surf, but the harbour side of the peninsula hides a string of small, quiet beaches that are easiest to reach by water. This guided kayak tour starts at 10am from the wharf below Manly Yacht Club on the East Esplanade, a short walk from the ferry, and takes small groups of up to eight paddlers around the cove to three stops. The first is Collins Flat Beach, then Quarantine Beach, where the longest break is scheduled, and finally Store Beach, with the tour taking about two and a half hours in all. Guests stop at a beach to stroll and swim, which makes the trip as much a beach outing as a paddle. The price includes the kayak, a paddle, safety equipment, a briefing and a paddling demonstration, a dry bag for small belongings, and snacks and hot drinks. The tour description says no kayaking experience is necessary, and the pace is relaxed, which makes it a good first guided paddle for visitors who would like to see a quieter side of Sydney Harbour.
What you will see
The northern edge of the harbour has a wild feel, with bushland, sandstone cliffs and small beaches that are cut off from the road and, in the case of Store Beach, reachable only by boat or on foot over rough ground. Paddling gives you time to look at the water, the shoreline and the harbour traffic, and the guide can talk about the history of the area, which includes its former use as a quarantine station. The three stops are timed so there is room for a swim or a walk, and the snack break is a welcome addition after the morning's paddling.
Planning
Meet at Manly Yacht Club on East Esplanade, and if you arrive by ferry, leave through the ferry entrance, turn right and walk along the beachfront to the club, where the tour starts on the wharf below. Wear swimwear under quick-drying clothing, bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat, and use the dry bag for a phone and keys.
A moderate fitness level is needed, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travellers or those with back problems, nor for people with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. It is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation comes at the time of booking and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Fit and combinations
The tour suits couples, friends and small families with teenagers who want something active but unhurried, and first-time kayakers who prefer guidance and calm water. It combines easily with a Manly ferry day: take the ferry from Circular Quay, paddle in the morning, then lunch on the Corso or walk around to Shelly Beach in the afternoon.
If you want a more strenuous workout or the Harbour Bridge views, a Lavender Bay paddle is better; if you want a beach day with a paddle attached, this is the one. The small group size keeps it personal, and the beaches are at their best on calm mornings outside the busiest summer weekends.
What to expect
The experience
A guided 2.5-hour paddle from Manly Yacht Club to Collins Flat, Quarantine and Store beaches, with swim stops, snacks and hot drinks.
Best time
Calm mornings; the tour starts at 10am.
How long
About two and a half hours.
Tips
Wear swimwear under quick-drying clothes, bring a towel and sunscreen, and use the dry bag for valuables.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beginners and casual paddlers who want a gentle guided outing with swim stops.
- Families
- Suitable for teenagers and active families; groups are small and moderate fitness is needed.
- Couples
- A quiet, scenic paddle with beach stops and snacks.
- Pair with
- The Manly ferry, Shelly Beach and lunch on the Corso.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the ferry from Circular Quay.
Good questions
Where does the tour start?+
At the wharf below Manly Yacht Club on East Esplanade, a short walk from the ferry. The tour ends back at the same spot.
Which beaches do we visit?+
The route stops at Collins Flat Beach, Quarantine Beach and Store Beach, with time for a stroll and a swim.
Do I need kayaking experience?+
No. The tour description says no experience is necessary, and a briefing and paddling demonstration are included.
What is included?+
Kayak, paddle, safety equipment, a dry bag, and snacks and hot drinks.
How big is the group?+
The group is limited to eight travellers.
