Our family of four would thoroughly recommend staying in Maria's apartment in Manly.
PRO'S
1) Maria is an exceptional host. She provided us with a multitude of small touches and provided many ideas throughout our stay to help us get the most out of our stay.
2) the property positioning is rather exceptional. It is midway between Manly and Shelley Beach. It's above a cafe and at a jump off point in the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve where swimmers, divers, surfers etc access the water. The bay window provides stunning views.
3) 5 minute walk and you are in Manly enjoying any number of restaurants and cafes.
4) 7 minute walk is the Manly ferry terminal where you can get a 20-30 minute ride into the city while viewing the magnificent Sydney harbour.
CONS
These are tiny relative to the positives. The building is old so you do hear some footfall from the apartment above. Also because you are so well situated on the promenade, it can be noisy at times.