One of the best aspects of living in Sydney is the abundance of day trip options within a short drive from the city. While the Blue Mountains National Park is a popular choice for bushwalking and sightseeing, there are many other fantastic destinations closer to home. One such gem is the Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk.

Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk

Listed as one of Sydney’s top coastal walks, the Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk is a 10km trek through stunning bushland and along harbourside paths, taking about 3-4 hours to complete one way, depending on your pace. This scenic route offers numerous vantage points to enjoy North Sydney’s beaches, coastline, and the iconic Sydney Harbour.

Starting the Walk

You can begin the walk either from the Spit Bridge, which is only a 20-minute drive from the Sydney CBD, or from Manly. For those who enjoy ferry rides, you can catch a scenic ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and start the walk from there, soaking in the iconic Sydney Harbour views along the way.

As a seasoned Sydney-sider, I opted to start from the Spit Bridge. We parked in a side street (with free parking) and began our adventure. After arriving in Manly, we grabbed a bite to eat, explored the area, and then used our OPAL cards to catch a bus back to the Spit Bridge. The bus ride takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic. If you don’t have a car, public buses from the Sydney CBD to the Spit Bridge in Mosman are a convenient option.

Flexible Walking Options

You don’t need to commit to the entire 10km walk. There are several access points along the route, allowing you to break up the walk and tackle different sections on different days. This flexibility makes it easy to enjoy the walk at your own pace and according to your fitness level. For the keen walkers, a return trip is also an option!

Sights Along the Walk

The walk offers a plethora of stunning views, including North Sydney’s beaches, lush bushland, and the expansive Sydney Harbour. Here are some highlights you can expect along the way:

• Spectacular harbourside vistas
• Serene bushland trails
• Panoramic views of the coastline

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable walk, here’s a checklist of essentials:

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for the long walk.
• Sunscreen: Even in winter, Sydney’s sun can be strong.
• Hat: For sun protection.
• Camera: To capture the beautiful views.
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized. There are plenty of picturesque spots to take a break.
• OPAL Card: For public transport to or from the walk.
• Spending Money: For stopping at cafes and restaurants in Mosman or Manly.

Additional Resources

For more information about the Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk, check out these helpful links:

• Sydney.com: Spit Bridge to Manly Walk
• Sydney Coastal Walks
• Best Sydney Walks

Ready to Go?

I hope this post has inspired you to explore the beautiful surroundings of Sydney. The Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk is one of my favorites and a highly recommended activity for locals and visitors alike.

Have you experienced the Spit Bridge to Manly Coastal Walk? Or are you now inspired to go? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! If you found this post helpful, let me know!