As fresh as a seabreeze, Manly Pacific’s revamped rooms give Sydney’s Northern Beaches what it’s been sorely lacking: a luxurious, seaside stay that speaks perfectly to its surroundings. Read on for the full review.

Every effort has been made to ensure guests are revitalised after a stay at this 213-room seafront hotel. There’s complimentary meditation for guests on Fridays and Saturdays, free health “shots” lined up at the concierge desk every morning before 10am and a rooftop wellness level equipped with an infrared sauna and lap pool. The heavenly rooms are the final flourish, bottling beach-chic with what feels – but doesn’t look – like very little effort.

Where is Manly Pacific?

Manly Pacific, NSW

On the seafront stretch of Manly Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with front-facing rooms looking directly onto the sand. The Manly-Circular Quay ferry wharf is about 10 minutes walk away, while a taxi from Sydney Airport takes about 35 minutes (depending on traffic).

What’s near Manly Pacific?

The sea. It’s as close as crossing the road, which you’ll likely do several times during your stay thanks to its proximity. The coastal path from Manly to Shelly Beach — best tackled around sunrise — is about 500 metres away, while the neighbourhood’s bars, restaurants and boutiques are within metres of the property.

Room types

Manly Pacific, NSW

To call the rooms coastal chic doesn’t do justice to the serene luxury of the interior design. It’s a balm of blond wood, cool greys and black accents (tapware, coffee cups, cushions) and you’ll be unable to resist getting handsy with the furniture — everything you’ve coveted from Coco Republic is here, to flop on, have breakfast at, leave your room key on top of. Staying for a special occasion? Each room category has its own luxurious extras — the Sun Lounger has an expansive balcony, Coastal Suites have two bathrooms and a full dining area, while the exceptional Infinity Residence is question-popping territory, with a sprawling bathroom, fireplace and 100-square-metre terrace – with all facing the beach and its distinctive row of Norfolk pines, of course. The coffee machine, equipped with Seven Miles Coffee from a nearby roastery, is a lovely touch, as are Leif bathroom products and the old-school turndown service.

Restaurants and bars

Manly Pacific, NSW

55 North is where you’ll land upon entry. The lounge-esque bar is attached to the lobby, with temptingly tactile chairs and couches anchored around a central fireplace, with several booths tucked into archways at the back. The cocktails are fun — especially the bubble-topped, lilly pilly-flavoured number – and every guest is treated to a complimentary drink.

Bistro Manly dishes up a hefty buffet for breakfast and a seafood-centric French menu at lunch and dinner, with juicy Moreton Bay bugs or NZ line-caught snapper featured. There’s also Tokyo Joe, a kaiseki-style Japanese restaurant on the other side of the bar, dishing up snackish bites from sushi rolls to karaage chicken burgers.

Travel for work

The hotel’s second floor is dedicated to events, with high ceilings and fantastic water views (not surprisingly, it’s popular for weddings). All room types include beautiful blond wood workstations and free wi-fi for remote working.

Gym, sauna and pool

Manly Pacific, NSW

The hotel’s top floor has the goods when it comes to wellness. Guests can book the infrared sauna and the rooftop pool, with its striped sun loungers facing the Pacific. There’s also a 24-hour fitness centre for guests. The hotel runs affiliate programs with nearby wellness providers – just ask at the concierge desk. Cryo, a small, family outfit in nearby Freshwater, specialises in restorative cryotherapy, from spot treatments for muscle injuries to facials and, their most impressive offering, a full-body cold immersion therapy “tank”, which envelops you in misty temperatures as low as -140°C. It’s a total thrill.

Accessibility

The common areas are wheelchair accessible and there are several accessible rooms available.

What you need to know

Splurged on the Infinity Residence? Make use of the Beach Butler, who’ll do everything from set your towels and umbrellas up on the beach, organise a picnic or run your bath while you’re out seeing the sights.

  • Best for: Relaxation
  • Design: Coastal-chic
  • Ambience: Chill
  • Number of rooms: 213
  • Rates: From $294
  • Wi-fi: Free
  • Parking: Self-parking available at $50 per day
  • Address: 55 North Steyne, Manly
  • Phone: +61 2 9977 7666

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