For a true flea market in a perfect setting, make sure you spend your weekend at Manly Market. Open twice a week, the family friendly open air treasure trove gives its visitors unique gifts full of whimsy and intrigue. With a focus on showcasing emerging design, fashion plus arts and crafts inspired by the local culture and lifestyle – Manly Market appeals to both locals and visitors wanting to seek out something special.

Located along Sydney’s seemingly endless northern coastline, Manly Beach is a tranquil and relaxing retreat from the busy city. ‘Only seven miles from Sydney and a million miles from care’ is a common quote amongst the locals here and the atmosphere in the air reflects this greatly. It is easy to float along and waste a day in the sun feeling at one with your surroundings.

The 1.5km beach has as sheltered ocean pool perfect for all the family and down at Penguin Cove there is the opportunity to spot Manly’s resident Penguins. With so much beauty and inspiration around there is little wonder the designers at Manly Market are so creative.

Each weekend you will find unusual and unique handmade arts and crafts designed with the landscape and local culture in mind. There are a wide range of jewelry and clothing stalls where you can find sparkling earrings and stunning dresses at very affordable prices. There is a treasure trove of Australian ceramics and homewares on offer which not only serve as a reminder of your trip but they are also extremely high quality.

Manly Market is a hive of activity, and is worth a visit even if just to browse through the romantic sun kissed streets. There is a casual atmosphere urging visitors to take there time and gently walk through the stalls. A brief look at the photography and sculptures available impress all that pass and the imaginative and innovative handicrafts will make sure your purse comes out your bag at least once.

Close to Manly Market is North Head Sanctuary. A hidden treasure in Sydney which offers virtually untouched bushland and unrivaled scenery. Here in this area of natural beauty you can discover more native birds and animals, along with a fascinating insight into Australia’s early settlement.

Along the beach front there are a number of fine dining areas where you can relax some more and watch the world go by. There are also a number of vintage shops in the local area, most notably ‘Lifeline’ and ‘Vinnies’ which have a great selection of vintage clothing along with some fine china and more traditional vintage homeware items. Manly Market offers so much inspiration and creativity it is impossible not to leave without a spring in your step. A refreshing and revitalising day is sure to be remembered for a long time to come.