Overview
North Steyne is the beachbreak stretch at the northern end of Manly, the first beach north of Sydney Harbour. Waves break over sand here, and it holds up as a good beachbreak even on the usual south wind, south swell combination. The wider Manly stretch tends to run a little smaller than exposed beaches like Curl Curl, but it keeps better sandbanks and stays cleaner through southerly busters.
When It Works
The bank draws swell from northeast through east-southeast to south, with northeast swell the best match. Both lefts and rights peel across the sand, and it stays consistent through the year. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft. Expect mushy, onshore conditions when the summer northeasters blow in.
Wind and Tide
Look for west offshore wind to clean it up. The bank can work through most of the tide across low, mid and high, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The forgiving beachbreak suits beginners well. Just plan for a very busy lineup when it's working, with swimmers, tourists and surf schools all sharing the space.
Access
Manly is a transport hub with ferry links, so there's plenty on hand: restrooms, showers, lifeguards, a surf school and a surf shop. Parking is paid, whether metered, roadside or the car park, and it's usually difficult and expensive beneath the Norfolk Island pines.
