This Walk Has INSANE Harbour Views | North Head, Manly

The North Head Walk in Manly is one of the most stunning and diverse trails in Sydney — and I explored it during sunset to catch the harbour at its best. Starting right from Manly Wharf, the walk first passes through Shelly Beach and the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, a protected marine area known for its crystal-clear water and incredible snorkelling.

From there, the track leads into the peaceful North Head Sanctuary, surrounded by native bushland and rich wartime history. Along the way, I stopped at the Fairfax Lookouts to take in jaw-dropping views over Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean before continuing to the historic Quarantine Station, once used to isolate arriving passengers in the 1800s.

I wrapped up the day at Collins Flat Beach, a quiet cove between North Head and Little Manly — and one of the few spots in Sydney where little penguins come ashore at night.

It’s the perfect mix of coastal beauty, history, and wildlife — all just minutes from the heart of Manly.


Want more amazing harbour and coastal walks around Sydney?
👉 See my full guide — Top 10 Sydney Harbour Walks:
   • 10 BEST Sydney Harbour Walks (Local’s Guide)  


TRAIL DETAILS & STATS:
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✅ Start & finish: Middle Head Road Car Park
✅ Distance: 12-13km loop
✅ Elevation gain: 288m
✅ Time: Half day
✅ Difficulty: Moderate
✅ Location: Sydney, Manly, NSW, Australia


TIMESTAMPS:
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00:00 - Shelly Beach
01:31 - Cabbage Tree Reserve
02:03 - Blue Fish Track
03:57 - Old Quarry Swamp
04:33 - World War 2 Defence Structures
05:16 - Trail to North Fort
05:46 - The Barracks Precinct
05:53 - Avenue of Honour & Hanging Swamp
07:18 - Fairfax Track
07:23 - Fairfax Lookout (Burragula)
08:20 - North Head Cementery
08:27 - Northern Lookout
09:10 - Quarantine Station
12:03 - Collins Flat Beach


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#manly #sydneyharbour #worldwar2