Manly is a beach-side suburb of northern Sydney, and is one of those places that offers the best of both worlds, cosmopolitan buzz and a relaxed vibe. It's 17 kilometres (11 mi) north-east from Sydney CBD (Central Business District and not something to do with Cannabis Oil as I have thought for some time!) and boasts a vibrant coastal atmosphere, with a Norfolk Island pine-lined promenade and a sprawling three-kilometre beach patrolled by a total of three surf lifesaving clubs.
It was a hot, sunny afternoon, the end of the school holidays and full of teenagers as well as tourists out to enjoy a day by the sea.
Manly Beach is the main drawcard. The world's first surfing contest was held at Manly in 1964, making it one of Australia's most famous beaches with big waves rolling in from the Pacific.
I had 90 minutes before the return ferry to Sydney CBD. Just enough time to stroll along the Manly main drag to the beach and watch as the Life Savers in their buggy raced up and down the beach trying to keep the surfers and bathers safe.
