A Year of Magic in Manly

I moved here just over a year ago, chasing the salt water and the freedom it brings. There’s something about spending time by the ocean—feeling the water on my skin, the warmth and energy of the sun, and the rhythm of the waves—that makes me feel alive. I find myself gazing at the horizon, noticing the sand scattered on the pavement, and watching the people around me laughing and soaking it all in.

For the first time (since arriving in Manly), I no longer need an alarm clock, there’s a childlike excitement in those early hours (5am eyes open)—knowing I’m about to be greeted by warm hugs, sea spray and the kind of conversations that brighten your whole day. The sky, the water, the vibe—it all pulls me down to the beach before the world is fully awake.

As I walk down Victoria Parade, I meet her—the sky. Some mornings she’s purple, sometimes a soft blue, but in winter, she sets herself ablaze in a glowing, fiery orange.

My first stop is always the Manly Point Café, where I’m welcomed by happiness, bubbly personalities, and playful conversations—always accompanied by my coffee. I even have a coffee named after me, go on try it, it’s called the ‘Deboroony’

With coffee in hand, I wander toward the ocean. For over a month now, Venus has been shining brightly above her, a sparkling witness to these mornings. Most days, the water is flat and calm, but every so often, she throws out a wild, unpredictable day—and I love those just as much.

I greet so many familiar faces, and together we talk about her, the ocean, and the sky. Some of us love to marvel at the stars, others enjoy a cheeky laugh. Then there are my friends, with whom I wander up to the point everyday. We snap endless photos and dive into the conversations that matter most—the things that truly resonate with 40-something-plus women.

Over time, I’ve discovered that this place and the B&B swim squad is deeply magical. It means something unique to everyone who comes here, rain, hail, or shine. Each person brings their own story, their past, yet together we welcome each day as a gift, excited for what the ocean might reveal. Manly Beach, Cabbage Tree Bay, Shelley Beach—each holds its own wonder. And when a Port Jackson shark, a wobbegong, a turtle, or a cuttlefish glides past, gratitude fills us all. We glance around, eager to share the moment with someone else. For me, the greatest joy is spotting the big blue groper—my favourite.

They say you never regret a swim, and it’s true. Today, the ocean was flat and fresh at 16.8 degrees, i never fear the cold, i have a 3 mm wetsuit (you know the blue one). The water was so clear it felt like swimming through an aquarium. Then came the magic—a large smooth ray glided past me, pausing as if to say hello. A wobbegong, the beloved blue groper, and more treasures followed.

This place has not just weaved itself into my life, its become my life – I found the love of my life, the sea, the sunrise and a beautiful community. So come on down—you never know how it might become a part of yours.