Beaches, lagoons and bush

We will take the ferry to Manly then ride along the coast with great beach views to Dee Why, where we go inland along bike paths through parks to the south end of the Narrabeen Lagoon. There we join a narrowish pathway north stopping for coffee at a lakeside cafe. Continuing around the lagoon on good but at times narrow paths we retrace our steps to Manly for lunch and/or a swim. This will be at times a slowish ride and we will always give way to pedestrians and pram pushers which we will encounter in numbers along the way. The path around the lagoon is very popular so is busy mid week but is too congested on weekends, thus the Friday ride.
NOTE - There are some substantial hills between North Steyne (Manly) past Freshwater to Curl Curl and again more climbing between Curl Curl and Dee Why.
Meet at 7.40 on Wharf 3 at Circular Quay. Bring your Opal Card. Board the Manly ferry asap which departs at 8.10am sharp.
From Manly wharf we weave through the pedestrians to the beach and take the shared path north, strike inland on local roads and up a few big hills behind Freshwater beach to the headland at South Curl Curl. More hills at North Curl Curl over the headland on local roads and down to Dee Why, where we rejoin shared pathways. The ride then is largely on shared pathways through parks with a few road crossings along the way.
We join the pathway around the lagoon which is largely well compacted gravel. Road bikes will go okay but could be a bit bumpy in some parts. There is a lovely water front cafe and plenty of toilet and water stops available all along the whole route.
We circle the lake then return via the same route. There will be many pedestrians at times.
On our return there are opportunities for lunch at Dee Why or in Manly. There are lots of options for a swim. I suggest either Manly Beach, nearby Shelly Beach or the harbour side beach near the ferry wharf.
Adventurers could also ride to North Head adding 40 or more minutes.
This ride (exc. North Head) is over 36 klms return and is NOT suitable for beginners. There is significant on-road riding so you need to be comfortable with car traffic. If raining the ride will be cancelled. Check this site for updates.
All usual conditions apply - bring a bike in good order, tools and tube for possible flat tyres, helmet, water bottle, sunblock and a sense of humour. If you are unwell or coughing or sniffing etc, please do not come. Observe road rules, give way to pedestrians and stay alert for your own safety, the safety of your ride colleagues and of the public.