Welcome to Manly, where the sun kisses the sea.
Eager to discover the best places to paddleboard in Manly, Australia?
Embrace the waves, as we explore Manly’s picturesque spots perfect for paddleboarding adventures.
Let’s dive in and conquer the waters together. Are you ready to ride?

Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Manly
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Manly Cove
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Manly Wharf (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm and protected, gentle ocean breezes
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, seabirds, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Sydney Harbour, views of the city skyline
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, adhere to local regulations
Manly Cove is a calm and protected bay, situated right next to the Manly Wharf. The warm and tranquil waters make it a popular spot for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.
Enjoy the stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline while riding the gentle waves.
#2 Shelly Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Shelly Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, protected waters, gentle ocean breezes
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, rays, small sharks, sea turtles
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, sandstone cliffs
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of marine life, avoid entering protected areas
Shelly Beach is a small, sheltered beach located in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. The clear, calm waters make it perfect for paddleboarding and exploring the vibrant marine life.
The picturesque surroundings are dotted with sandstone cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for your paddleboarding adventures.
#3 North Harbour
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Clontarf Reserve or Fairlight Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected from strong winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, seahorses, rays, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Manly coastline, views of the harbor
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect marine life
North Harbour is a sheltered bay located between Clontarf Reserve and Fairlight Beach. The calm, protected waters are ideal for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders.
As you paddle along the Manly coastline, enjoy views of the harbor and diverse marine life such as seahorses and rays.
#4 Q Station Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Q Station (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, mild ocean swell
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, seabirds, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: North Head, Sydney Harbour National Park
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of rocks and swim zones, follow local regulations
Q Station Beach is nestled within the historic Quarantine Station in Manly’s North Head.
The calm waters provide a serene paddleboarding experience, surrounded by the lush greenery of Sydney Harbour National Park. Paddlers can enjoy views of the imposing North Head while encountering diverse marine life.
#5 Little Manly Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- 📍 Access Point: Little Manly Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm and protected waters, mild ocean swell
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, seabirds, occasional dolphins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Manly Beach, Sydney skyline
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to local regulations, watch for boat traffic
Little Manly Beach is a hidden gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Manly’s main beach. The calm, protected waters create the perfect environment for a leisurely paddleboarding session.
As you glide through the waves, enjoy the picturesque views of Manly Beach and the distant Sydney skyline.
#6 Collins Flat Beach
- 🏖️ Location Type: Bay
- 📍 Access Point: Collins Flat Beach (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected from strong winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Year-round
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, seabirds, fairy penguins
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Manly Beach, surrounding bushland
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of rocks and swim zones, follow local regulations
Collins Flat Beach is a secluded and peaceful bay tucked away from the crowds. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for paddleboarding while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Keep an eye out for the local fairy penguins, which are often spotted near the beach.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Manly?
Manly Beach, Shelly Beach and Manly Cove are popular spots in Manly for paddle boarding.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Manly?
No, there’s no need to register paddle boards in Manly.
When is the best time to paddle board in Manly?
The best time for paddle boarding in Manly is early morning or late afternoon when the waters are calm.