If you want to surf then go North. Bondi is great place to visit and go out but the surf is crap 90% of the time with ****ty banks and loads of crew. There are a couple of beaches close by - Glamarama and Bronte which can get pretty good on their day but once more the crowds are epic. The Bra is a good option for a wave but be careful who you share waves with
Manly can get pretty busy as well but you have loads more options and spots to choose from. Then just north you have Freshie, Curly and Dee Why/ Long Reef which basically covers you for most swell and wind directions except E and SE winds. If you want to go for a drive up the peninsula there are so many waves and spots its great. Lovely drive and lots to see.
Re Family stuff - lots to do in and around the Manly area....not to mention a beautiful ride on the ferry and you are down town at circular quay with lots of options on foot form shopping, site seeing, eating etc. It really is an unreal way to visit a big city. Lots of great walking options from both the City and Manly. If you like coastal walks etc then the 3hr spit to manly walk us unreal....although they have now almost finished the walk from Spit back to the city as well.
Manly also has lots and lots of food and entertainment options and one of the top 10 bars in the world if you ask me
.
Depending on where your show is out west expect a drive from Manly of an hour plus. Are you driving down? Parking can be a hassle in Manly - if you had a horse float it could prove rather interesting but I have a few spots I could show you where to park. If you are driving down and wish to break up the journey I know some really good spots for waves 1hr 40m before you get to Manly
