Fairy Bower Beach is a small swimming and snorkelling spot on Manly’s coast, between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach. Shallow water makes it suitable for a family swim, while low tide can bring colourful fish close enough to see while snorkelling. Nearby, the triangular Fairy Bower Ocean Baths sit beside the coastal promenade, with Helen Leete’s bronze Sea Nymphs sculpture at the edge. Bring your own snorkelling gear, then continue along the coast towards Shelly Beach.
The ocean baths and Sea Nymphs
Fairy Bower Ocean Baths sit on the rocky shore along the promenade between Manly and Shelly beaches. Local residents built the small, triangular pool in 1929. Its longest side, about 30 metres, runs beside the promenade.
At the pool’s edge, Helen Leete’s bronze sculpture Oceanides depicts two dancers. The figures are also known locally as the Sea Nymphs. The baths are part of the Cabbage Tree Bay Eco Sculpture Walk.
Following the coast
The promenade around Manly’s southern headland connects Fairy Bower with Manly Beach and Shelly Beach. You can continue along the coast on foot, or swim between nearby beaches when conditions suit. Fairy Bower’s shallow water is also used for swimming and snorkelling; low tide is the suggested time to look for fish close to shore.
A surf break lies off the point, but it is described as suitable only for experienced surfers. For a gentler visit, stay with the beach, promenade or ocean baths.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Fairy Bower Beach good for snorkelling?
Yes. The shallow water is used for snorkelling, and low tide is a good time to look for fish close to swimmers. Bring your own gear.
Where are Fairy Bower Ocean Baths?
The triangular pool is on the promenade linking Manly and Shelly beaches, beside the rocky shoreline.
When were the ocean baths built?
Local residents built Fairy Bower Ocean Baths in 1929.
What is the Sea Nymphs sculpture?
Oceanides is a bronze sculpture by Helen Leete showing two dancers. It stands at the edge of the ocean pool.
