Manly Lazy Sunday Bliss 

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Sunlight filtered lazily through the blinds on this perfect Sunday morning, the kind where time stretches out like warm honey—no alarms, just the gentle hum of distant waves and Shari's tail thumping softly against the floorboards. Blue skies beckoned from the window over Moreton Bay, pulling us from pyjamas into the salty embrace of Manly's seaside charm, where every breath tasted like freedom, and the day promised nothing but unhurried bliss.  

A slow, sunny Sunday in Manly was all about blue skies, good food and easy bayside vibes, wrapped up with markets, a cheeky outfit purchase for Kim and a Puppuccino for Shari.  

Lazy Sunday at The Boathouse 

The day started with a slow wander along the waterfront to The Boathouse, one of Manly’s most popular spots perched right on the edge of Moreton Bay with wraparound water views and salty sea breezes. Light-filled interiors relaxed coastal styling and multiple spaces – from restaurant and bar to patio and little boathouse nooks – make it the kind of place that works for everything from date nights to casual dog-friendly brunches.  

Breakfast looked like a greatest hits playlist: rich coffees, a stacked OG burger, a flaky Nutella pastry and a round of healthy juices to balance it all out. Shari happily joined in with her own Puppuccino, while people watching became the unplanned entertainment as boats drifted past and locals filled the deck.  

Manly Creative Markets vibe 

With breakfast done, it was an easy stroll down to the Manly Creative Markets in Little Bayside Park, Manly’s long-running Sunday market overlooking the harbour. Operating for more than three decades, the markets bring together a big mix of stallholders selling artisan wares, handmade clothing, jewellery, art, pet products, plants, homeware and all the classic craft-market treasures.  

Food stalls, coffee vans, live entertainment and kids’ activities give the whole precinct a festival feel, and the crowd on this visit had the markets buzzing. Dogs snoozed under tables; buskers set up the soundtrack, and it was one of those mornings where “just a quick look” turned into a long, meandering browse up and down the aisles.  

Raby Bay Resort Wear find 

Among the fashion stalls, Kim found Raby Bay Resort Wear and fell for a matching top and shorts set that fit the bayside brief perfectly. Raby Bay Resort Wear is linked with a boutique at Raby Bay Harbour that focuses on Australian-designed resort clothing with a coastal, relaxed aesthetic and accessories to match.  

Think easy, breezy linen pieces, beach-to-bar dresses and curated jewellery and homeware that feel right at home along Brisbane’s bayside. The new set was very much “buy it now, wear it straight away” gear for future markets, beach walks and brunches by the bay.  

About Manly, Queensland 

Manly is a laid-back seaside suburb on Brisbane’s eastern bayside, sitting on the shores of Moreton Bay about 20–30 minutes from the CBD. Centered on Manly Harbour Village and one of Australia’s largest small-boat marinas, it blends a working harbour feel with waterfront parks, cafes and yacht clubs.  

The foreshore is lined with walking paths, picnic spots and playgrounds, making it popular with families, dog walkers and anyone chasing sea breezes without leaving the city. With immediate access to the bay, Manly is also a launchpad for sailing, fishing and trips out to the islands of Moreton Bay Marine Park.  

How to get too Manly 

From Brisbane CBD, driving to Manly takes around 20–25 minutes depending on traffic, following Wynnum Road and then down towards the harbour, with street and marina parking available near the village. Public transport is easy too, with regular Translink trains from Central Station to Manly Station and buses such as the 220 service from Queen Street, both taking around 35–45 minutes.  

Journey planners and real-time timetables via Translink help line up connections if you are coming from other suburbs. For visitors staying in Brisbane, rideshare and taxis are also straightforward options for a direct trip to the harbour.  

Highlights and things to do 

Manly’s highlights revolve around the water and village atmosphere. Along Manly Harbour Village you will find waterfront dining, casual cafes, wine bars and pubs, plus boutique shopping and weekly markets like the Manly Creative Markets. The marina area offers scenic boardwalks, yacht clubs and opportunities for sailing experiences or harbour cruises on Moreton Bay.  

Active types can walk or cycle the bayside paths, kayak or paddle around the harbour, or simply wander between Manly and neighbouring Wynnum’s foreshore parks and tidal pool. Families and dog owners are well catered for with green spaces, playgrounds and plenty of pet-friendly outdoor seating at local venues.  

Why spend a day in Manly 

A day in Manly delivers an easy mix of relaxed seaside energy and genuinely local experiences, without the stress of a long drive or big-city crowds. You can start with breakfast over the water, browse creative markets, stroll the marina, then finish with sunset drinks or a picnic by the bay – all within a walkable harbourside precinct.  

For Brisbane locals and visitors alike, Manly feels like a mini getaway: sea air, sailboats, good coffee and markets that make it simple to slow down and enjoy a lazy Sunday. 

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