Hidden away in shrubland rolling down to a beautiful harbour beach, the former quarantine station offers a wide variety of accommodation. Minibuses shuttle you around this sizeable complex of historic buildings; rooms have their own balconies and many have harbour views. Kayaks, bikes and snorkels are available, and there's an on-site cafe and restaurant. It's an out-of-the-way, utterly relaxing spot.

This can be a great choice for families, with huge grounds for children to roam, on-site tours, a safe swimming beach, access to the North Head walking trails, rooms sleeping four or more, and apartment options. (It won't suit those who want to be around the Sydney buzz, however.)


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Manly attractions

1. Q Station

0.17 MILES

From 1837 to 1984 this sprawling historic complex in beautiful North Head bushland was used to isolate new arrivals suspected of carrying disease. These…

2. Store Beach

0.22 MILES

A hidden jewel on North Head, magical Store Beach can only be reached by kayak – you can hire them from Manly Kayak Centre – or boat. It’s a breeding…

3. North Head

0.49 MILES

About 3km south of central Manly, spectacular North Head offers dramatic cliffs, lookouts, secluded beaches, pretty paths through the native scrub, and…

4. St Patrick’s College

0.9 MILES

Southeast of Manly’s centre, this enormous Gothic Revival college (1889) lords over the rooftops from its hillside position. It used to be a seminary but…

5. Reef Beach

0.98 MILES

This beautiful little cove is on the Manly Scenic Walkway in the Sydney Harbour National Park. It's got turquoise water and great views across to Manly.

6. Fairy Bower Beach

1.05 MILES

Indulge your mermaid fantasies (the more seemly ones at least) in the pretty, triangular ocean pool set into the rocky shoreline here. The life-size sea…

7. Shelly Beach

1.14 MILES

This pretty, sheltered, north-facing ocean cove is an appealing 1km walk from the busy Manly beach strip. The tranquil waters are a protected haven for…

8. Manly Cove

1.17 MILES

Split in two by Manly Wharf, this sheltered enclave has shark nets and calm water, making it a popular choice for families with toddlers. Despite the busy…