There’s something pretty special about arriving at Manly Beach in the dark, when everything is still quiet and there are just a few locals around.
You hear the gentle murmur of chit-chat, take in the fresh morning air, and watch as the first light of sunrise begins to change the beach.
Slowly, Manly comes to life.
Joggers make their way along the sand, paddleboarders head out onto the water, surfers get ready for their morning waves, and people gather along the beachfront to watch the sunrise. It’s a lovely reminder of just how much happens here before the rest of the world gets going.
And there was a little bit of ocean magic this morning! Lish let me know that around 6 am, while sitting on the rocks at the point, she spotted some dolphins frolicking past, heading towards the bay. What a beautiful way to start the day!
Under the water, conditions were a little different. As Lisha reported, it was seaweedy, sandy and low visibility – plenty of life around, but not much to see at times! When the water cleared up, though, she spotted a large eagle ray heading towards Shelly. What a fantastic sight!
On my own stroll along the beach, I spotted a couple of bluebottles (blueys) washed up on the shore. There have been no reports from swimmers of any blueys out in the water, but it’s always worth keeping an eye out as you enjoy your morning swim.
It was also lovely to see our friends from the Surf Safari strolling along the beach, ready to make the most of the waves ahead. And, of course, there was plenty of laughter and cheekiness at Manly Point Café – because what would a morning at Manly be without a bit of banter and a few familiar faces?
It’s yet another stunning day here at Manly, with the water temperature sitting at 18.9°C. Whether you’re here for a swim, a surf, a stroll, a coffee or simply to soak up the atmosphere, there’s something about being by the ocean that sets you up for the day.
Sometimes it’s not just about getting in the water. It’s about the people, the conversations, the changing colours of the sky and those unexpected little moments – dolphins passing through the bay, an eagle ray gliding towards Shelly, and the familiar faces that make our swimming community so special.
Here’s to another beautiful morning at Manly. See you on the beach!
Deb x 💙