We love Manly for more than just sand and sea. Brimming with scenic walks and sporty activities, there’s also a feast of restaurants. Manly is the perfect place to escape by day and night.

1. Best sandwich

Nothing satisfies a hearty appetite like the meatball ciabatta with pesto and provolone at Baccino Espresso on the Corso at Manly. In fact, all of their rolls are fabulous and the Baccino blend coffee is delish.

2. Best place to lose yourself

If you want to lose yourself (and everyone else) head to secluded Collins Flat Beach. This peaceful beach is just a few hundred metres from Little Manly Point and has stunning views to the city, which you may find yourself sharing just with one or two of the resident little penguins.

3. Best shop

Lulu Loves Paris (149 Pittwater Rd), and we love Lulu. This is the kind of gorgeous little gem you’d expect to stumble across eastside. The boutique is home to an eclectic collection of unique fashion, jewellery and shoes that meld classic European elegance with a contemporary Australian twist.

4. Best Hidden Gem

One of Sydney’s best kept secrets is Little Manly beach. A short stroll from the bustling Manly we all know, this quiet little beach with its netted ocean pool boasts its own cafe where you can grab a coffee in the morning or enjoy a leisurely drink as the sun goes down over the harbour.

5. Best day-time pickup

A trio of great bars – Hugo’s Manly, The Manly Wharf Hotel and the Bavarian Bier Cafe – have seen the gateway to Manly become something of a hotty hotspot. Sunday afternoon at the Manly Wharf Hotel is great for some friendly flirtation over a beer or cocktail. Best of all, you’re in just the right spot to grab a ferry or yacht and sail off into the sunset.