RIDING THE WAVES

Relax on a weekend away at one of Sydney's most iconic beaches

- Julia Byrne.

My first impressions of Manly, in Sydney’s north, as I arrive at my hotel home for the weekend is that it’s buzzy and vibrant. The beach atmosphere immediately transports me from workaday Sydney to holiday mode in a flash.

Shown around the iconic Manly Pacific after the hotel’s 30 million upgrade, I’m transported again. It isn’t just a luxe hotel in a nice location that exists separately from the real community around it. It’s a wellness space and your room key gets you exclusive discounts at businesses all over Manly. Embracing everything from surf schools to beauty bars and cafes, a weekend here is a true reset experience.

My room is chic and spacious, and because of the way the hotel is designed, you feel like you’re actually sitting on the beach. Look across the road and you'll see nothing but sand and sea. It’s a great stage for people watching and the perfect spot for simply relaxing and taking in the view.