27 MARCH 

Clear skies and sunshine are heralding the last weekend of March, so you would be forgiven for forgetting we are supposed to be a month into Autumn already.

Here in Manly, the summer state of mind still reigns. The wharf is going full Mexico City, live music is playing at practically every venue with a power outlet and the Steyne is hosting the latest round of Battle of the Bands. 

So just between us locals, here’s everything worth knowing for the weekend ahead…..

📍 Manly Wharf, Sydney Harbour

🕒 Fri: 4pm - late | Sat & Sun: 11am - late

La Mexicana Festival has landed at Manly Wharf and it's running all weekend. They've flown in the chefs from El Vilsito, a Michelin-recommended Mexico City taqueria famous for their tacos al pastor (yes, the ones from Netflix's Taco Chronicles).

There is free entry and walk-ins available and it is running for the last weekend! Get yourself down to the harbour, pair your tacos with a patrón marg, soak up the mariachi, and thank us later.

XtraClubs Manly: A new sauna, ice bath and steam recovery club is opening on The Corso in April. XtraClubs is bringing contrast therapy to Manly with founding memberships from $19.95/week, open 6am-11pm daily.

Fast Ferry heads up: If your commute has felt extra chaotic lately, it's because Circular Quay wharf repairs have pushed the Manly Fast Ferry to Wharf 6 with a reduced timetable. Expect longer queues at peak times until July.

New hot spot:: The team behind Sketch Manly have just opened a modern Indian wine bar in Brookvale called Bazaar & Bar. Think chilli paneer and a glass of Riesling in a laid-back setting, this is a level up for your typical Friday night curry and we’re pretty excited about it. 

📍 The Corso

🕒 Sat & Sun: 10am - 5pm

The weekly open-air market right in the heart of Manly between the wharf and the beach. Eclectic mix of local art, handmade jewellery, vintage apparel and eco goods. Sunday adds fresh produce, sourdough, flowers and ready-to-eat food like paella and handmade gnocchi.

🕒 All running Sat & Sun 

If you’re in the mood for celebrating, take your pick this weekend of Manly’s finest. Further up, Ullo at Dee Why does a bottomless long lunch with views overlooking the beach. 

📍Donny's $89pp Espresso martini on arrival, wings, mac & cheese bites & bottomless cocktails.

📍Nikkita $99pp Nikkei-inspired dishes with Aperol Spritz & margaritas. Heaven.

📍Miami Rice on the Hotel Steyne Rooftop $99pp Asian share menu with unbeatable ocean views.

📍 Garfish $100pp rosecco & signature seafood overlooking Manly Harbour. A more dignified affair. 

If you're after a chilled Friday knock-off beer with a live set or a full Saturday send, there's something on at pretty much every bar and brewery from Manly to Mona Vale. Here's who's playing where. 

The first ever film shot and shown in Australia was Passengers Alighting from Ferry Brighton at Manly. Filmed in 1896, this still is the sole surviving image. The footage has been lost to history.