Manly Beach - Sydney Manly Beach is about 12km North East of Sydney CBD and the best way to get there is to catch the Manly ferry or Jetcat from Circular Quay. The journey gives you exquisite views of Sydney Harbour. Manly is known as the gateway to more than 18 beaches and coves stretching from Manly Beach through to Palm Beach north of Sydney. Manly beach was name by Governor Arthur Phillip 1788 when he discovered the area and thought the Aboriginal men who came to welcome him looked very manly. Manly Beach has many attractions including Manly Oceanworld where tourists can get up close to sharks, crocodiles and some of the most deadliest snakes in the world. Oceanworld is situated 200 metres from Manly Wharf and is open daily Manly's main street is known as "The Corso" and has a huge variety of restaurants and cafes to cater for all your culinary tastes. Ferrys and Jet Cats operate from Circular Quay daily from 6am - 11pm and take ~ 40 minutes by Ferry or 15 minutes by Jet Cat.