"​Collins Flat Beach, tucked away in the beautiful Sydney Harbour National Park near Manly, is a true hidden gem and a delightful escape from the more crowded city beaches. It offers a unique blend of tranquil harbour waters, lush bushland, and picturesque views that make it feel a world away from the bustling city.
​What Makes It Special
​Calm, Clear Water: The sheltered location between North Head and Little Manly Cove means the water is typically flat, crystal clear, and shallow, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. It's particularly popular and safe for families with young children.
​The Waterfall: A unique feature of Collins Flat Beach is the small waterfall cascading over the sandstone rocks at one end of the beach—it’s considered the only harbour beach in Sydney with this feature. It's often more of a trickle in dry weather but adds a stunning, picturesque element, especially after rain.
​Secluded Atmosphere: Although accessible via a short scenic walk (approx. 7-10 minutes) from nearby streets or the Manly to Spit Bridge Walkway, its less-obvious location keeps the crowds away, providing a secluded and tranquil environment perfect for a romantic picnic or a quiet day of reading and sunbathing.
​Wildlife: The area is part of the habitat for a colony of Little Penguins, the only known colony on the NSW mainland. While sightings are rare and should be respectful of their space, it adds a special charm to the location.
​Note: Access is via walking tracks and involves steps, so it is not wheelchair or pram accessible. There are limited amenities, so bring your own food, water, and perhaps a beach umbrella for shade.
​🧭 Nearby Attractions in the Manly Area
​Collins Flat Beach is close to many other excellent attractions, particularly around Manly and the North Head precinct.
​Beaches & Swimming
​Little Manly Cove Beach: A short walk away, offering another calm harbour swimming spot with a nearby kiosk/cafe.
​Shelly Beach: Located on the ocean side near Manly, this is a beautiful, protected marine reserve famous for snorkelling and scuba diving. It's easily accessible and very popular.
​Manly Beach: One of Sydney's most iconic beaches, offering a vibrant atmosphere, great surfing waves (at the North and South Steyne ends), and the lively Manly Corso leading up to it.
​Fairy Bower Pool: A picturesque, historic ocean pool situated along the walk between Manly and"

John karmas

"My favorite beach in Sydney, and I’ve been to many. Feels secluded, there’s a little waterfall in the back, pure paradise amidst a bustling city."

Noah Homsy King

"Collins Flat Beach is pretty much the epitome of a harbour beach. There’s a ten minute walk via a good path in from either side; done up as part of the Manly to Spit Bridge walk. Tanalilising glimpses of azure blue water and a small hundred meter stretch of golden sand give you a hint of what’s coming as you make your way down not-too-many uneven sandstone stairs and fibre-reinforced plastic walkways. Bush turkeys rustle in the undergrowth and black cockatoos make their haunting calls overhead. The water is cool, flat, debris free and crystal clear: I can easily see my toes. You’re basically swimming on the inside edge of North Head. On either side of the deep bay submerged rocks indicate next time we should bring snorkels and masks. Parking is best on the western side of the beach with a free car park at Skinner’s Reserve."

Jackie McMillan