Manly, Sydney

I have only spent a week there when travelling and I thought it was amazing. I was not that fussed about many Sydney areas I went to but I could definitely live in Manly. Some nice coastal runs and as you say very scenic.

I have sadly not lived there but if I was offered I would certainly give it a go!

Manly is an awesome place - I visited it a couple of times when I was travelling, the idea of going and getting to work on a ferry is pretty amazing too. There are some really cool little cafes, it doesn't feel like a city, like a really nice beach town. Loved it and would defo go back. 

After three trips to Sydney and living there for over six months I finally got to Manly a few years back. What a shame I left it so long - it's a must do in Sydney.

I live not far from Manly and yes it is a very scenic, relaxed beach environment that is still relatively close to the city (just a ferry trip away), however it is very expensive to live there as it is the "Northern Beaches". So, unless you have a relatively high income I wouldn't live in Manly itself but in one the surrounding suburbs (like Frenchs Forest), in saying that though they are still pretty pricey suburbs!

I remember going to a party in the northern suburbs when I was first there, the house was like something out of Melrose Place, had a huge walled garden and you went in through this huge arched gateway. Yup, agreed you'll need your dollars in that neck of the woods.

Where are you living now Danielle?

I lived there for about three years from 91-94. Had the time of my life. Great social scene. Very big health and fitness scene. People were always running,skating, cycling along the seafront. Some good gyms there too. It has changed a lot since I was living there ,but I have been back. and it still has a great vibe about it. I would go now if I could.

I went a few years back when I was travelling. Superb fitness scene as you say. Reminded me of parts of California where everyone seems to be doing some form of exercise, including the surfing.

How long is the ferry ride again - was it about 40 minutes from Circular Quay?

Hi Kirstie. Ferry takes approx 40 mins but there has recently been a new Ferry Service started up in competition with the established one, which apparently is a faster one. Always liked Manly but as has been pointed out, it is very expensive to live there. Then again, most of Sydney, with the possible exception of some Western Suburbs, is very expensive, and better to visit than to actually live there.