Shelly Beach - Manly

Everyone loves a perfect day at the beach, the cool breeze and perfect waters for a refreshing swim. If your after a place with some adventure, then why not check out Shelly Beach in Many, NSW.

Shelly Beach - View from pathway

Shelly Beach is a small bay just a short walk from Sydney's Manly Beach. When on Manly Beach (Ocean Side) head south along the beach following the path past the Surf Club. The path continues to Shelly Beach. The walk itself is spectacular with many adventures waiting to be discovered.

Ocean Rock Pool

 As you walk along the path you begin to see the many different activities that this place holds. A small ocean pool allows for an uninhibited swim but also a great place for the kids.

The waters around Shelly Beach offer one of the most accessible dive sites Sydney has to offer. You will often see many people snorkeling around the calm waters and scuba divers exploring further out.

"Bower" - Surf Break

As the waters are shallow it makes for a great beginners dive site and many dive schools are often seen gathering on the beach.

Surfing is another highlight of Shelly Beach with the shallow waters offering some great waves over the reef. You can watch the surfers dive straight into the waters from the rocks.

The western point of the beach also know as the "Bower" offers some of the shallowest breaks in Sydney. The shallow waters make it popular for surfers when the swell is right.

You'll often see paddle boarders make the journey out to the bower or just paddle around the calm waters in the bay.

Calm waters of Shelly Beach

As Shelly Beach faces inland and not directly towards the ocean it remains a calm and kid friendly beach. No big dumpers are going to send you flying here, which makes it a excellent spot for launching a kayak.

There are fantastic picnic facilities in the area including gas bbq's and picnic tables. Get in quick as they go really fast. Several cafes are also nearby for those that prefer a sit down or take away feast.

Climb the hill behind Shelly Beach for an awesome exploring. A rocky outcrop offers magnificent views and further on you can walk to the famous North Head.

For more information check out :-

Wikipedia
Manly Council Website

Dunn's Swamp

Over the mountains from Sydney and a short drive from Kandos and Rylestone lies the hidden gem of Dunn's Swamp. Though the name may sound deceiving it is more a river then a swamp with the body of water a favourite for fisherman, kayakers and adventurers alike.

Dunn's Swamp is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service which provids various camp sites at a small fee. The sites are accesible by 2wd and provide seperate areas for camper trailers and caravans.

Plenty of walks and places to explore on foot including the walk to the weir which makes the river what it is. If walking isn't your choice of adventure you can hire canoes and explore the river and its canyon like walls by water.

Certainly a great place to explore and fantastic to keep the kids busy in the water.

Check out the following sites for more information.

National Parks
Environment NSW - Search for Dunns Swamp