PhilD

We bought in Manly Vale simply because we couldn't afford to buy in Manly. What a great decision it turned out to be!

Manly Vale is surprisingly close to the city - within 20 mins after-hours and only 30 mins to the airport on a good run. Even with commuter traffic the city is only 25-30 mins away by bus because of the bus lanes. Express and local buses traverse Condamine St very frequently both to the city, east into Manly and north towards Palm Beach, meaning a maximum wait of 5-15 mins.

The proximity to Manly, Freshwater, Curl Curl and other beaches at only 5-10 mins by car makes it very conveniently located whilst not attracting the rental or sale prices of places right on the water, but Manly Vale does still enjoy the nice breezes that come off the ocean.

Warringah Mall and its approximate three million shops, banks, cinemas etc. is just a few minutes away at best. A handful of cafes and takeaways (Dominos Pizza, Indian, KFC, Thai, Belaromas coffee-shop etc) exist on or near Condamine St (the Take a Seat Thai is cheap and makes awesome food) and after hours the cafes of Manly are just around the corner.

A large Coles supermarket that is never over-crowded with a large car park exists right in Manly Vale on Koorala St and a Woolworths is planned behind the Harvey Norman on Condamine St. A huge Dan Murphys will supply all of your alcohol needs and then some.

Parking in Manly Vale is a treat compared to Manly, you won't have to venture far from your house - if at all - and there are very few streets with parking restrictions.

There are several schools and day care centres in Manly Vale, well located for people dropping of children on the way to work. A large playground and creek with ducks runs through the Passmore/Nolan Reserve just near Campbell Parade.

The abundance of parks, ovals, grounds, golf courses and of course the still seemingly undiscovered crown jewel of Manly Dam make it a fantastic location overall - it feels ever quiet and relaxed. There are multiple sporting clubs - cricket, soccer, netball, etc.

Nightlife in Manly Vale is practically non-existent, which is likely a good thing for the majority of residents - parents with small children, families and couples. Singles would likely find the place a little quiet.

The area west of Condamine Street is made up mostly of houses and has a distinct neighbourhood feel. Between Condamine Street and Quirk Road are a large selection of good sized two and three bedroom apartments, many with large underground garages. Between Quirk Road and Many Golf Course are more houses.

Manly Vale has been a real delight for us. Closer to the city than pretty much every other northern beaches suburb, properties here are half to two-thirds the value of neighbouring Manly and only 5 mins away.

My review is very positive but that's because we love it here after four years. Buy or rent now before more people discover this fantastic suburb!