Discover the Natural Beauty of North Head Sanctuary
Explore North Head Sanctuary, a stunning natural park in Manly, showcasing breathtaking views, rich history, and diverse wildlife in Sydney.
Nestled in the scenic coastal landscapes of Manly, North Head Sanctuary offers tourists a breathtaking escape into nature, featuring lush greenery, stunning ocean views, and rich historical significance. This unique destination combines outdoor adventure with a glimpse into Australia's natural and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
A brief summary to North Head Sanctuary
- N Head Scenic Dr, Manly, New South Wales, 2095, AU
- +61289692100
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails can be steep and uneven.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots throughout the sanctuary.
- Check for guided tours to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to enhance your wildlife experience.
Getting There
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Ferry
If you are in Circular Quay, head to the ferry terminal. Look for the Manly Ferry, which departs regularly. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and you will enjoy beautiful views of the Sydney Harbour. Once you arrive at Manly Wharf, exit the ferry and follow the signs to Manly Beach. Continue along the promenade until you reach the end of the beach, then head up the hill to North Head Scenic Drive. Follow North Head Scenic Drive for about 15-20 minutes, and you'll arrive at North Head Sanctuary.
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Bus
From the Sydney CBD, you can take a bus to Manly. Catch the B1 bus from either Wynyard Station or the QVB (Queen Victoria Building). The bus will take you over the Spit Bridge and through picturesque areas, ultimately reaching Manly. Once you get off at the Manly bus stop, walk towards Manly Beach. Follow the beach promenade to the end, then ascend the hill to North Head Scenic Drive. Walk along North Head Scenic Drive for about 15-20 minutes to reach North Head Sanctuary.
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Walk
If you are near Manly, you can walk to North Head Sanctuary. Start at Manly Beach and head towards the North Head Scenic Drive entrance. Follow the path that leads up the hill to North Head. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes and offers beautiful views along the way. Enjoy the natural surroundings as you make your way to the sanctuary.
Discover more about North Head Sanctuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Manly Cove
1.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Little Manly Cove, a stunning bay in New South Wales perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor fun.
Smedley's Point
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Smedley's Point, a cherished historical landmark in Manly, New South Wales.
Cabbage Tree Bay
2.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and marine life of Cabbage Tree Bay, a tranquil haven for swimming, snorkeling, and scenic coastal walks.
Marine Parade, Manly
2.1 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Marine Parade, Manly – a must-visit destination for every traveler in Australia.
LOVE MANLY
2.1 km
Explore Love Manly Beach, a stunning coastal paradise in New South Wales, perfect for sun, surf, and unforgettable memories.
Manly Beach - South Steyne
2.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Manly Beach, an idyllic Australian coastal paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Sydney Heads
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sydney Heads, where ocean views, historic sites, and natural beauty converge in perfect harmony.
Manly War Memorial
2.3 km
Discover the serenity and history at Manly War Memorial, a tribute to Australia's military heroes, set against the stunning backdrop of Manly's coastline.
Manly Town Hall
2.4 km
Explore the beauty and history of Manly Town Hall, a stunning architectural landmark in New South Wales, perfect for culture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Grotto Point Lighthouse
3.2 km
Explore the stunning Grotto Point Lighthouse, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Australia's maritime heritage.
Manly Wormhole
3.5 km
Explore Manly Wormhole, a historical gem in Queenscliff, showcasing unique cave paintings and breathtaking coastal views.
Spit Bridge
4.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Spit Bridge in New South Wales, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await every visitor.
Port Jackson Bay
5.4 km
Discover the stunning Port Jackson Bay, where breathtaking views meet rich history and vibrant wildlife in New South Wales.
Muddawahnyuh / Fort Denison
7.7 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning views of Muddawahnyuh, also known as Fort Denison, in Sydney Harbour.
Sub Base Platypus
7.9 km
Explore Sub Base Platypus, a historic park in North Sydney with stunning views and rich maritime history, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hanging Swamp
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hanging Swamp in Manly, a hidden hiking paradise perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Sydney Harbour National Park
0.6 km
Discover the beauty of Sydney Harbour National Park, a stunning national park featuring breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
Q Station Manly
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Q Station Manly, offering unique accommodation and breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.
North Head
0.6 km
Discover North Head in Manly, NSW—a breathtaking park with stunning coastal views, rich history, and diverse wildlife perfect for every traveler.
Store Beach
0.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Store Beach in New South Wales, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and stunning coastal views.
Quarantine Beach
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Quarantine Beach in New South Wales, a perfect destination for relaxation, history, and stunning coastal views.
Little Manly Point Park
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Little Manly Point Park, a coastal oasis in Manly, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking relaxation.
Little Manly Beach
1.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and recreational charm of Little Manly Beach in New South Wales, a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
1.9 km
Discover the natural beauty of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, a marine sanctuary in Manly, NSW, with stunning views and vibrant marine life.
Fairy Bower Beach
1.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Fairy Bower Beach in Manly, NSW, a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, and unforgettable sunsets.
Shelly Beach
1.9 km
Experience the beauty of Shelly Beach in Manly, NSW, where pristine sands meet vibrant marine life in a stunning coastal paradise.
Lookout
2.0 km
Experience breathtaking coastal views at the Lookout in Manly, a top tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
The Office
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at The Office in Manly, a perfect destination for relaxation and local culture.
East Manly Cove Beach
2.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of East Manly Cove Beach, a perfect retreat for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying nature in New South Wales.
East Manly Cove
2.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of East Manly Cove, a perfect beach destination in New South Wales for relaxation and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Little Pearl
2.1 km
Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine at Little Pearl in Manly - where every dish tells a story and every sip delights.
Garfish Manly
2.2 km
Experience coastal elegance at Garfish Manly—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hugos Manly
2.3 km
Experience modern Australian dining with breathtaking waterfront views at Hugos Manly – where culinary excellence meets stunning coastal scenery.
Manly Grill
2.3 km
Experience exceptional steaks and breathtaking ocean views at Manly Grill - a must-visit destination for food lovers in New South Wales.
Manly Thai Gourmet
2.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors in the heart of Manly with affordable dishes at Manly Thai Gourmet.
Belgrave Cartel
2.4 km
Discover Belgrave Cartel in Manly: Where Italian Cuisine Meets Local Artistry and Vibrant Cocktails.
The Pantry Manly
2.4 km
Experience exquisite modern Australian cuisine at The Pantry Manly - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Hemingway's Manly
2.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Hemingway's Manly—a coastal gem offering breakfast, brunch, cocktails & stunning beach views.
The Herring Room
2.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Herring Room in Manly - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Kazzi Beach Greek Manly
3.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with breathtaking views at Kazzi Beach Greek Manly - where every meal is a celebration.
L'Héritage
4.4 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at L'Héritage in Mosman – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.
Ripples Chowder Bay
4.5 km
Experience modern Australian cuisine at Ripples Chowder Bay with stunning harbor views – an unforgettable dining adventure awaits!
St Siandra
4.6 km
Discover St Siandra: A premier restaurant in Mosman offering exquisite Australian cuisine with stunning views and vibrant events.
Ormeggio at The Spit
4.9 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine with fresh seafood delights at Ormeggio at The Spit, set against stunning marina views.
Catalina Restaurant
6.6 km
Experience fine dining at Catalina Restaurant in Rose Bay - where modern Australian cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bundel
1.8 km
Discover Bundel, the charming gift shop in Manly, offering unique presents and sustainable treasures for every occasion.
state of Mind
1.9 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry at State of Mind in Manly, where the beauty of the sea meets exceptional craftsmanship.
Trmnl
2.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essentials at Trmnl, your go-to gift shop and convenience store in the heart of Manly Wharf.
Momento And Souvenirs
2.3 km
Explore a captivating collection of unique souvenirs and local crafts at Momento And Souvenirs in Manly, New South Wales.
Okanui Manly
2.3 km
Discover stylish fashion at Okanui Manly, where surf culture meets contemporary design in the heart of coastal New South Wales.
Sportsgirl Manly
2.4 km
Explore a vibrant selection of women's fashion and unique gifts at Sportsgirl Manly, where style meets the coastal charm of Australia.
Bits of Australia
2.4 km
Explore a unique gift shop in Manly, showcasing Aboriginal art, Australian goods, and delightful souvenirs that capture the spirit of Australia.
Tahei Decor Manly
2.4 km
Explore Tahei Decor Manly for unique homewares that capture the essence of Australian artistry and style, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
This and That Boutique
2.4 km
Explore This and That Boutique in Manly for unique fashion and accessories reflecting Australian creativity and style.
Uuli's Unique & Unusual
2.4 km
Explore Uuli's Unique & Unusual in Manly for a delightful selection of antiques, vintage clothing, and unique treasures that tell a story.
Betty and Lola
4.9 km
Experience the best of contemporary fashion at Betty and Lola in Mosman, where style meets personal service in a chic boutique setting.
désordre Bondi Beach
8.1 km
Explore the eclectic charm of désordre Bondi Beach, a boutique offering unique fashion and lifestyle pieces that reflect the vibrant coastal culture.
Tuchuzy
8.2 km
Explore Tuchuzy, Bondi Beach's premier boutique offering unique fashion and lifestyle items that reflect the vibrant spirit of the beach.
MUSEUM
8.3 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Museum Clothing Store in Bondi Beach, where unique styles meet the essence of Australian beach culture.
Inbetween Tangerine
8.3 km
Explore the vibrant women's clothing collection at Inbetween Tangerine, a stylish boutique in Bondi Beach, capturing the essence of Australian beach fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wharf Bar
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Wharf Bar in Manly, where delicious food meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable experience.
4 Pines Brewpub Manly
2.2 km
Discover the essence of Australian craft brewing at 4 Pines Brewpub Manly, where great beer meets delicious food in a stunning seaside setting.
Miami Rice Manly
2.4 km
Experience the best of Asian cuisine in Manly at Miami Rice Manly, where delicious food meets a vibrant beach atmosphere.
Donny's
2.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Donny's in Manly with exquisite American cuisine, crafted cocktails, and live music that captures the essence of coastal living.
Blacket's Bar
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Blacket's Bar in Manly, where exquisite cocktails meet stunning beach views and lively nightlife.
In Situ
2.4 km
Discover In Situ in Manly - a dynamic restaurant and cocktail bar blending culinary excellence with live music for an unforgettable experience.
The Hold
2.4 km
Explore The Hold in Manly: where delicious gourmet burgers meet inventive cocktails and live music in a vibrant coastal setting.
The Cumberland
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and stunning coastal views at The Cumberland, Manly's premier bar destination for tourists.
Speakeasy Bar
8.1 km
Discover the stylish Speakeasy Bar in Bondi Beach, where modern Australian cuisine meets exceptional cocktails in a vibrant setting.
Neighbourhood Bondi
8.2 km
Discover the lively Neighbourhood Bondi, where vibrant cocktails meet delicious food in the heart of Bondi Beach.
Bondi Public Bar
8.2 km
Discover Bondi Public Bar, a vibrant pub offering stunning beach views, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Bondi Beach.
Front Yard Bar at Promenade Bondi Beach
8.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Front Yard Bar at Bondi Beach, offering delightful drinks and delicious meals in a stunning seaside setting.
Bondi Hardware
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Bondi Hardware, the perfect cocktail bar and breakfast spot in Bondi Beach.
Rag & Famish Hotel
8.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine of Rag & Famish Hotel, a must-visit pub and dining destination in North Sydney.
Terrace Hotel
8.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delightful cuisine at Terrace Hotel in North Sydney, the perfect spot for locals and tourists alike.