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On the headland east of Manns Point and the Parramatta River (see Birchgrove) lies this pleasant park, site of Aboriginal rock art and bushwalking trails. It offers stunning views across the harbour to Goat Island and Balmain (see Balmain East). BBQ facilities are available, and it’s easily accessible from Waverton Railway Station. The park is cradled by the dormitory suburbs of Waverton and Wollstoncraft, the latter named after Edward Wollstoncraft, nephew of Mary Wollstoncraft, the author of Rights of Women . Edward was an enterprising local merchant who operated a shipping business with his partner Alexander Berry, after whom the bay to the east was named.

A lovely bay that features shallow crystal waters, wind-sculpted sandstone cliffs, the magical Fairy Bower rockpool and protected Shelly Beach.

The site where Governor Phillip was speared in 1788 is a peaceful spot nowadays (see Collins Beach). Steps lead to a secluded rock diving platform.

A prominent 1885 seminary for Catholic priests was the setting forThomas Keneally’s novel Three Cheers for the Paraclete . It is now a college of hospitality and tourism.

East of Berry’s Bay, this cove has great views of the Opera House framed by the Harbour Bridge. It was named after George Lavender, a boatswain who married the daughter of his neighbour Billy Blue (see William “Billy” Blue). In 1817 Governor Macquarie granted Billy Blue 32 ha (80 acres) west of Lavender Bay. In 1830, at the age of 82, Billy Blue established a ferry service from Dawes Point to the headland that now bears his name. There is a small reserve at its end, but the point is dominated by a Harry Seidler (see Rose Seidler House) apartment building that many consider an eyesore.

Backed by a reserve lined with Norfolk Island pines and a busy esplanade, this ocean beach (see Manly) is a Sydney favourite. There are rock baths at the northern end.

The ferry wharf houses boutiques and cafés, the Visitor Information Centre (see Manly), Manly Boat and Kayak Hire, Oceanworld and the Manly Art Gallery and Museum.