Where Surf Meets Style: Manly’s Corso in 1909

Manly 1909

A Snapshot of Coastal Elegance

In 1909, the corner of The Corso and South Steyne in Manly, New South Wales, was already a celebrated intersection of seaside charm and social life. Long before the beach crowds of modern-day Sydney began their weekend rituals, this historic stretch was drawing both locals and day-trippers to the salty air and scenic promenade. Manly, even then, had mastered the blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair.

The Corso: A Stroll Through Time

The Corso, a pedestrian promenade stretching from the harbour ferry terminal to the open ocean beach, was already the beating heart of Manly by the early 20th century. In 1909, horse-drawn carriages rolled past smartly dressed couples out for a seaside walk, while sandstone shopfronts and ornate verandahs lined the boulevard. Cafés, confectioners, and beachside pavilions welcomed the early surf bathers and sunseekers discovering the joys of the Pacific coast.

The Corso wasn’t just a walkway—it was a statement of lifestyle. It reflected the rising popularity of seaside leisure and the Victorian-era belief in the health benefits of fresh sea air.

South Steyne: A New Era of Surf Culture Begins

Just steps from The Corso, South Steyne Beach was coming into its own. In 1909, the surf bathing movement was gaining momentum across Australia, and Manly was leading the charge. Though official regulations around beach attire and swimming times were still in place, the beach was already an unofficial playground for the brave souls who dared to take on the waves.

The South Steyne Surf Life Saving Club, one of the world’s first, had been established just a year earlier in 1908. It marked a turning point in the development of beach culture, ensuring safety while encouraging the public to embrace coastal recreation. This same spirit continues to shape Manly’s identity to this day.

The Ferry Ride That Changed Everything

One of the key reasons for Manly’s popularity in 1909 was its accessibility. The ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly—often called “seven miles from Sydney, a thousand miles from care”—offered not just transport, but an experience. The journey across the harbour was scenic and relaxing, drawing weekenders from Sydney eager to escape the growing bustle of the city.

This regular ferry connection helped transform Manly into one of Australia’s earliest resort towns, complete with beachside hotels, pleasure piers, and music halls that echoed the sounds of summer.

Manly’s Enduring Magic

Manly 1909

Walking the same corner of The Corso and South Steyne today, you’ll find echoes of that golden era. The architecture may have evolved, the carriages replaced with cafes and surfboards, but the spirit remains. Manly’s charm lies in its timeless blend of sea, sky, and sociability—a heritage that began more than a century ago and continues to captivate all who visit.

Visit for more on Manly's history and attractions:

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
https://hellomanly.com.au/

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