The Little Manly – Laidback Waterfront Magic

Hotel Description

You know what? The Little Manly completely caught me off guard. I mean, I’ve stayed in plenty of waterfront places around Sydney, but this one actually gets it right – it’s got that relaxed beach vibe without feeling like they’re trying too hard to be cool. The location is honestly perfect if you want to be right in the thick of Manly’s action but still wake up to proper water views. You’re literally a two-minute walk from the ferry wharf (which, let’s be honest, is the best way to get to and from the city anyway), and the Corso is right there when you need coffee or want to grab dinner.

What really sold me on this place was how they’ve managed to nail that laidback Australian coastal thing without it feeling fake or overdone. The rooms have this sort of effortless beach house feel – think white linens, natural timber, and those big windows that actually open (revolutionary concept, right?). I stayed in one of the harbor-view rooms and honestly spent way too much time just watching the ferries come and go. The bed was properly comfortable too, which matters more than people admit when you’re dealing with jet lag or just want to sleep in after a big night out. There’s this gentle sound of water lapping that you notice at night, especially if you crack the window – it’s not the crashing waves from the ocean side, just that peaceful harbor rhythm.

The staff here actually seem to live locally, which makes such a difference when you’re asking for recommendations. They pointed me toward some excellent spots I never would have found otherwise – like this little bakery tucked away on Sydney Road that does incredible sourdough, and the best time to hit the beach before the crowds arrive (around 7am if you’re wondering). Parking can be a bit tricky during peak season – I mean, it’s Manly, so that’s just reality – but they’ve got a deal with a nearby lot that takes the stress out of it. The whole check-in process was refreshingly straightforward, none of that corporate hotel nonsense where they try to upsell you on everything.

What I really appreciated was how the place feels connected to Manly itself rather than just plonked down there. You can walk to the ocean beach in about eight minutes, hit the weekend markets, or just sit on the harbor foreshore with a coffee and watch the world go by. The ferry ride to Circular Quay is genuinely one of the best ways to see Sydney Harbor – way better than any tour bus – and having that right at your doorstep makes the whole experience feel more authentic. It’s the kind of place where you can roll out of bed, grab breakfast somewhere local, spend the day exploring, then come back and actually want to hang out rather than just crash. For a 4-star place, it punches well above its weight, and that 9 rating honestly feels about right.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $261. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Wonderful location trumped any other issues. – Mark from Australia – 29 January 2025 (9/10)

  not applicable – great local places to eat
  
  What could be improved: No air conditioning and the cooker was difficult to operate – instructions would have been useful.

• Superb – Jessica from Australia – 21 April 2025 (9/10)

• Superb – Elisabeth from Austria – 7 March 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities