Welcome To Manly - Activities in Manly

ATTRACTIONS

Whale Watching
Accompany experienced skippers past the 300ft vertical cliffs of the Sydney Heads into the Pacific in search of the magnificent Humpback and Southern Right whales. (Bookings: 1300 52 92 57)

Oceanworld Manly
See marine life and venomous creatures while getting up close and personal with sharks, snakes and crocodiles. Daily 10am –5.30pm. West Esplanade Manly 2095. (02 9949 2644). $20/ $10/ $46 (family).

Manly Art Gallery & Museum
This gallery hosts workshops, artists' talks, readings, recitals and life drawing classes and, in August is exhibiting Excessory featuring jewellery from emerging young artists using recycled and adapted materials. West Esplanade Manly 2095. (02 9976 1420).

Q Station
Manly landmark Q Station has a rich history dating back to the 1830s when migrant ships arrived at North Head after a six-month journey, only to drop off poorly passengers at the "Q" until they returned to health (or, ahem, otherwise). With great walks and snorkelling nearby and the great Boilerhouse next to Quarantine Beach doing beaut belly fuel, it's a classic Sydney adventure... but beware of ghosts!

The Manly Arts & Craft Markets
Filled to the gills with creative souvenirs, these all-weekend markets are a great place to pick up a handmade. Sat & Sun, 10am–5pm. The Corso, Sydney Rd Manly 2095. (02 9315 7011).

FESTIVALS

Manly Arts Festival
Local talent shines bright September 3-19 when this banquet of visual arts exhibitions, music gigs, 24/7 film festivals, dance and fun family action hits Manly's streets and spaces.

Manly Jazz Festival
Held over the long weekend of October 2-4, this world-famous groove-fest is now in its 32nd year and features multiple stages and over 60 performers jamming from noon until sundown.

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