Sydney Harbour Explorer's Guide

Sydney Opera House

Whether you attend a performance, book a guided tour or just walk right around the outside you need to see the Opera House up close. Dine at Midden or Bennelong for extra special memories.

Add to

Details

Mrs Macquarie's Chair

@PaulaM

This historic sandstone bench, carved by convicts in 1810, offers Sydney's most iconic photo spot. It was created for Governor Macquarie's wife Elizabeth (who loved watching the ships arrive from here), this spot provides the perfect angle of the Opera House framed by the Harbour Bridge. Visit at sunrise for the best photos, or join locals exercising along the waterfront path. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the adjacent Royal Botanic Gardens, or time your visit for sunset when the harbor lights begin to twinkle. Getting there: 15-minute walk from Circular Quay through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or hop off at the Art Gallery of NSW bus stop.

Add to

Details

Cremorne Point

@PaulaM

This leafy harbourside peninsula is one of Sydney's best-kept secrets for spectacular city views. Follow the 3km harbourside walking trail past heritage mansions and hidden gardens to reach Robertsons Point Lighthouse. The path offers countless photo opportunities of the Opera House and Bridge, without the tourist crowds. Don't miss the historic Cremorne Point Wharf and the beautiful MacCallum Pool—a 1920s harbourside swimming pool with free entry and million-dollar views. Getting there: Take a 10-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Cremorne Point wharf, or combine with a visit to Taronga Zoo (15-minute walk from the zoo's ferry wharf). Best visited in morning light for photography.

Add to

Details

Kirribilli

@PaulaM

Nestled under the Harbour Bridge's northern end, Kirribilli offers some of Sydney's most spectacular viewpoints. This charming neighborhood is home to the Prime Minister's Sydney residence and features hidden lookouts that photographers dream about. Don't miss the perfect Opera House vantage point at Kirribilli's Jeffrey Street Wharf, or the famous 'Kirribilli Steps' for unique Bridge shots through their iron archways. On weekends, the Kirribilli Markets bring local life to Burton Street. Getting there: Take a 5-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Kirribilli Wharf, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from The Rocks (15 minutes). Visit at dusk when the setting sun bathes the Opera House in golden light and the city lights begin to sparkle.

Add to

Details

Manly

@PaulaM

The 30-minute ferry ride to Manly is often called "Sydney's best-value cruise," and for good reason. This buzzing beach suburb offers the perfect mix of harbor views, beach culture, and coastal charm. From the ferry wharf, follow the palm-tree lined Corso to famous Manly Beach, or take the hidden path around Shelly Beach for stunning harbor headland views. Don't Miss: Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk (10km, stunning harbour views) Sheltered Shelly Beach for snorkelling North Head for whale watching (May-November) Little Manly Beach for quiet harbour swims Sunset drinks at Felons on Manly Wharf Local's Tips: Take the 7:30am ferry for chance dolphin sightings Grab breakfast at Barefoot Coffee Traders Visit Monday-Friday to avoid weekend crowds Last ferry back is late (around midnight) Sit on ferry's port (left) side heading to Manly, starboard (right) returning for best views Getting there: 30-minute ferry from Circular Quay (sit outside upper deck for best experience). Fast ferries take 18 minutes but aren't as scenic.

Add to

Details

Rose Bay

@PaulaM

This elegant harbour suburb offers a unique blend of seaplane adventures, waterfront dining, and hidden beaches. Once Sydney's first international airport, Rose Bay is now the base for scenic seaplane flights and harbour kayaking adventures. The promenade along New South Head Road provides continuous harbour views and access to secluded beaches. Highlights: Watch seaplanes take off and land while dining at Catalina Hire kayaks from Rose Bay Aquatic Hire Visit the secret Milk Beach via the Hermitage Foreshore track Take a scenic seaplane flight to Palm Beach Explore Murray Rose Pool (formerly Redleaf Pool) Local's Tips: Morning is best for calm water activities Book a sunset table at Regatta Rose Bay Walk the Rose Bay to Watsons Bay track (8km) Visit Nielsen Park's netted beach for safe swimming Free parking available at Lyne Park Getting there: Take a ferry from Circular Quay (25 mins) or bus 324/325 from the city. Combine with a visit to Watsons Bay for a perfect day out.

Add to

Details

Circular Quay

@PaulaM

Where ferries, trains, and Sydney's most famous landmarks converge, Circular Quay marks the spot of Australia's first European settlement. Yes, it's packed with tourists, but locals know how to navigate its hidden corners and quiet moments. When to Visit: 7-8am: Watch seagulls dive for breakfast as cafes set up 10am-3pm: Peak tourist time (avoid if possible) 4:30-5:30pm: Golden hour for photography After 8pm: Quiet walks when cruise ships depart Must-See Spots: Opera House (walk the full circumference at sunrise) Customs House basement (city model under glass floor) MCA rooftop terrace (local's secret for harbour views) Overseas Passenger Terminal top level (best skyline photos) Hidden Gems: Gateway Food Court (where office workers eat) Opera Bar's lower western corner (usually empty) Cruise Bar rooftop (fraction of Opera Bar prices) Food & Drink: Morning coffee: Bar Mammoni try to resist the pastries! Lunch with a view: Cafe Sydney ($$$) Sunset drinks: Opera Bar (arrive by 4pm for good seats) Dinner splurge: Bennelong (inside the Opera House) Budget eats: Marrickville Pork Roll in Quay Quarter Lanes Transport Tips: Walking access to The Rocks, Bridge, and Royal Botanic Gardens

Add to

Details

Watsons Bay

@PaulaM

This charming fishing village at Sydney's South Head serves up some of the harbour's best views alongside its famous fish and chips. From the historic lighthouse to secluded beaches, Watsons Bay packs countless experiences into one compact peninsula. Must-Do Experiences: Walk to Hornby Lighthouse for dramatic harbour entrance views Lunch at Doyles (fancy restaurant or casual takeaway) Take the South Head Heritage trail for cliff-top ocean views Swim at Camp Cove's sheltered beach Sunset drinks at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel Local's Tips: Visit weekdays to avoid weekend crowds Arrive before noon to score a beach-view table at the hotel Pack water shoes for the secret Lady Bay nude beach Take the 'local's route' through the backstreets to see historic cottages Best sunset views in Sydney (city skyline across the harbour) Perfect Day Plan: Morning ferry from Circular Quay Coffee at Watsons Bay South Head walk (45 mins return) Lunch at Doyles Afternoon swim at Camp Cove Sunset drinks watching the city light up Getting there: 25-minute ferry from Circular Quay or combine with the Rose Bay to Watsons Bay walking track. Last ferry back varies seasonally - check timetables!

Add to

Details

Taronga Zoo Sydney

@PaulaM

Perched on harbour hillside, Taronga combines wildlife encounters with Sydney's best skyline views. Quick Tips: Take the bus or walk to the top gate and then walk downhill through the zoo Book first ferry + first entry (9:30am) to see most active animals Australian Walkabout section opens at 9:15am (beat the crowds) Seal show has best harbour backdrop Giraffe enclosure offers perfect city photo ops Getting there: 12-minute ferry from Circular Quay. Buy combined ferry/zoo tickets to save money. Last entry 4pm.

Add to

Details

Lavender Bay

@PaulaM

This tranquil harbour cove offers front-row Bridge views without tourist crowds. Local Secrets Wendy's Secret Garden (free, open daily) Luna Park's vintage face at night Artist Brett Whiteley's former home Protected bay for kayaking Historic timber workers' cottages Photo Spots: Lavender Bay Parklands for Bridge reflections Old ferry wharf at sunrise Art deco buildings along waterfront Tips: Morning light best for photography Walk from Milsons Point station (10 mins) Getting there: Train to Milsons Point or 15-minute walk across Bridge from The Rocks. Or ferry to McMahons Point.

Add to

Details

Middle Harbour

@PaulaM

Away from main harbour traffic, Middle Harbour's protected waters wind past waterfront mansions and hidden beaches only accessible by water. Best Launch Points: The Spit Bridge (parking available) Tunks Park, Cammeray (quieter option) Davidson Park boat ramp (for Garigal National Park access) Paddling Routes: Spit to Bantry Bay (3hrs return, moderate) Sailors Bay circuit (1.5hrs, beginner) Sugarloaf Bay (2hrs, intermediate) Local Tips: Early morning for calm waters Check tide times (easier paddling at high tide) BYO water and snacks (limited shops) Look for sea eagles and pelicans

Add to

Details

Sydney Harbour Bridge

@PaulaM

Sydney Harbour Bridge: Under, Over & Across Experience Sydney's 'Coathanger' from every angle for a complete Bridge adventure. Under It: Jet boats blast underneath at 75km/h Feel dwarfed by 6 million steel rivets Best photo angle of arch structure Watch climbers scaling above Spot base jumpers on special events Over It: BridgeClimb (2.5hrs, book sunrise for best value) Pylon Lookout ($30 adults, no booking needed) Photography platform on south-east pylon 360° harbor views from summit Across It: Free pedestrian walkway (eastern side) 15-minute walk each way Access via Cumberland St, The Rocks Stop halfway for Opera House photos Exit at Milsons Point for Luna Park Local Tips: Book BridgeClimb 3+ months ahead Pylon Museum includes Bridge history. Combine with Blues Point Reserve visit Skip the tourist prices: Walk across for free, then spend your savings on lunch at Kirribilli.

Add to

Details

Boowambillee / Shark Island

@PaulaM

This tiny harbor paradise sits 1km from Rose Bay, offering 360° harbor views and perfect picnic spots. Despite its name, no sharks—it's shaped like one! Essential Info: Access via Captain Cook Cruises or water taxi Entry fee: $7 per person Book through NSW National Parks Limited to 500 people daily Open 9:30am-4:30pm There are no shops or cafes on the on the island. Bring everything with you. Getting there: Book Captain Cook Hop-on-Hop-off ferry or private water taxi. No private boats allowed to dock.

Add to

Details

Luna Park Sydney

@PaulaM

Sydney's heritage amusement park grins across the harbor at the Opera House. That famous face has watched over the water since 1935, now mixing nostalgic charm with modern thrills. Local Tips: Book Squid Game trials ahead (sells out) Visit after 6pm for city light views Photograph the face at blue hour Free entry to walk through Ride passes better value than single tickets Photo Spots: Midway games at dusk Face from Bradfield Park Harbour Bridge from Ferris wheel City skyline from entrance Vintage neon at night Getting there: Milsons Point train station or ferry. Or walk across Bridge from The Rocks (15 mins).

Add to

Details

Manly Beach

@PaulaM

Want to experience Manly without breaking the bank? Start with the weekend ferry ($8.90 unlimited travel) and let your feet do the rest. The famous walk from Manly to Shelly Beach winds past the marine reserve where giant blue gropers swim close to shore - bring your snorkel and you might meet Bluey, the local celebrity fish. Follow the coastal boardwalk around to Shelly Beach, where locals bring morning coffee and picnic blankets instead of paying for beachside cafes. Take the higher track back for stunning harbor views, or continue your adventure at the opposite end of the beach at Queenscliff where you'll find one of Manly's best-kept secrets: the Wormhole. This natural rock tunnel, carved by the sea, feels like stepping into another world. Time your visit for low tide, wear sturdy shoes, and follow the surfers' track near Queenscliff pool to find it.

Add to

Details

North Head

@PaulaM

Rising 80 meters above the harbour entrance, North Head offers Sydney's most dramatic coastal views. This ancient headland combines Aboriginal heritage, military history, and whale watching spots. **Best Views:** Third Quarantine Cemetery lookout Fairfax walk circuit (1km) North Fort gun emplacements Shelly Beach overlook City skyline from Australia's Memorial Walk **Wildlife Spotting:** Whales (May-November) Little penguins at dusk Eastern water dragons Echidnas in bush Long-nosed bandicoot **Local Tips:** Visit Q Station at sunset Take Manly to North Head walk Morning best for photography Pack water (limited facilities) **Hidden Spots:** WW2 Memorial Walkway Blue Fish Point Native wildflower garden Old Quarantine Station beach Secret military tunnels (tours available) Getting there: 30-minute ferry to Manly, then 161 bus or 3km walk through native bushland.

Add to

Details

Doyles on the Beach Restaurant

@PaulaM

A Sydney institution since 1885, serving fish and chips with harbour views at Watsons Bay. Quick Tips: Two options: Restaurant or takeaway wharf Restaurant: Book window seats ahead Takeaway: Queue before 12pm or after 2pm Local's order: Beer-battered fish & chips BYO wine to restaurant ($10 corkage) Getting there: Ferry to Watsons Bay. Restaurant on beach, takeaway at wharf. Weekday lunch better than weekends.

Add to

Details

Opera Bar

@PaulaM

The quintessential Sydney sundowner spot, right under the Opera House sails. Live music most afternoons. As popular with locals as it is with visitors. Quick Tips: Arrive 4pm for sunset seats Lower western corner usually quieter Order food from Raw Bar (fresh oysters) Best city views from back tables Getting there: Eastern side of Opera House, follow the harbour promenade. Or exit at lower concourse level from Circular Quay.

Add to

Details

Midden by Mark Olive

@PaulaM

Mark Olive's fine-dining restaurant celebrates Indigenous ingredients with stunning harbour views, offering unique experiences from native-inspired high teas to evening tasting menus. Consistently praised for its innovative dishes we loved the wallaby shank and blue gum barramundi, other popular dishes include the Indigenous platter featuring kangaroo, crocodile, and emu, while the sunset views of the Harbour Bridge create an unforgettable dining backdrop.

Add to

Details

Murray Rose Pool (Redleaf Pool)

@PaulaM

Formerly Redleaf Pool, this harbourside swimming spot in Double Bay offers a shark-netted enclosure with floating pontoons and wraparound deck. Local office workers escape here for lunch breaks, while morning swimmers claim the wooden promenade for their flat whites and newspapers. The beach kiosk serves excellent coffee, but arrive before 10am on weekends to score a deck chair. Quick Tips: Free entry Change rooms and showers available Best at high tide Combine with Seven Shillings Beach walk

Add to

Details

Milk Beach

@PaulaM

This hidden harbour gem in Vaucluse offers postcard-perfect city views from a pristine stretch of sand most tourists never find. Local Secrets: Access via Hermitage Foreshore Track Best at high tide for swimming Morning light perfect for photos Heritage Strickland House backdrop Snorkel around rocky edges Quick Tips: Pack everything (no facilities) Limited shade (morning best) Street parking on Vaucluse Road Combine with Rose Bay coffee run Weekdays quieter than weekends Getting there: 15-minute walk from Rose Bay or Watson's Bay. Follow Hermitage Foreshore Track from Bayview Hill Road or Nielsen Park.

Add to

Details

The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf

@PaulaM

Head to this hidden gem in Walsh Bay, where theatre-goers and locals gather for sunset drinks. The industrial-chic space stretches along a historic finger wharf, offering sweeping views of the Bridge and Luna Park's twinkling lights. Grab a seat on the wooden benches outside, order a glass of Australian wine, and watch the sky turn pink as water taxis zip across the harbour. Even better - you might spot actors from the Sydney Theatre Company rehearsing during the day. Continue on to Barangaroo for dinner Getting there: 10-minute walk from Circular Quay via Hickson Road, or combine with Barangaroo foreshore walk. Best before 6pm for sunset views.

Add to

Details

Henry Deane

@PaulaM

Perched atop the historic Hotel Palisade in Millers Point, Henry Deane offers a sophisticated escape from the tourist trail. The pink-hued cocktail lounge spans two floors of glass-wrapped spaces, delivering panoramic views from the Bridge to Barangaroo. Settle into a velvet banquette as container ships glide past, or claim a coveted window seat to watch the sunset paint the harbour gold. While the cocktails aren't cheap, the uninterrupted views and intimate atmosphere make it worth the splurge. Getting there: 10-minute walk from Circular Quay via Argyle Street and Munn Street steps, or after exploring Barangaroo. Book ahead for sunset sessions.

Add to

Details

Store Beach

@PaulaM

This secluded beach in North Harbour is only accessible by water, making it one of Sydney's most private harbour beaches and a protected Little Penguin breeding site. Essential Info: Kayak access only (no walking track) Hire from Manly Kayak Centre 30-minute paddle from Manly BYO everything (no facilities) Protected penguin habitat Local Tips: Early morning for calm waters Pack dry bags for gear Look for penguin nests (don't disturb) Best swimming at high tide Combine with Q Station paddle Getting there: Kayak hire from Manly Wharf. Water taxi possible but expensive. No private boats allowed to anchor.

Add to

Details

Sydney Opera House

@PaulaM

Whether you attend a performance, book a guided tour or just walk right around the outside you need to see the Opera House up close. Dine at Midden or Bennelong for extra special memories.

Add to

Details

Mrs Macquarie's Chair

@PaulaM

This historic sandstone bench, carved by convicts in 1810, offers Sydney's most iconic photo spot. It was created for Governor Macquarie's wife Elizabeth (who loved watching the ships arrive from here), this spot provides the perfect angle of the Opera House framed by the Harbour Bridge. Visit at sunrise for the best photos, or join locals exercising along the waterfront path. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the adjacent Royal Botanic Gardens, or time your visit for sunset when the harbor lights begin to twinkle. Getting there: 15-minute walk from Circular Quay through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or hop off at the Art Gallery of NSW bus stop.

Add to

Details

Cremorne Point

@PaulaM

This leafy harbourside peninsula is one of Sydney's best-kept secrets for spectacular city views. Follow the 3km harbourside walking trail past heritage mansions and hidden gardens to reach Robertsons Point Lighthouse. The path offers countless photo opportunities of the Opera House and Bridge, without the tourist crowds. Don't miss the historic Cremorne Point Wharf and the beautiful MacCallum Pool—a 1920s harbourside swimming pool with free entry and million-dollar views. Getting there: Take a 10-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Cremorne Point wharf, or combine with a visit to Taronga Zoo (15-minute walk from the zoo's ferry wharf). Best visited in morning light for photography.

Add to

Details

Kirribilli

@PaulaM

Nestled under the Harbour Bridge's northern end, Kirribilli offers some of Sydney's most spectacular viewpoints. This charming neighborhood is home to the Prime Minister's Sydney residence and features hidden lookouts that photographers dream about. Don't miss the perfect Opera House vantage point at Kirribilli's Jeffrey Street Wharf, or the famous 'Kirribilli Steps' for unique Bridge shots through their iron archways. On weekends, the Kirribilli Markets bring local life to Burton Street. Getting there: Take a 5-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Kirribilli Wharf, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from The Rocks (15 minutes). Visit at dusk when the setting sun bathes the Opera House in golden light and the city lights begin to sparkle.

Add to

Details

Manly

@PaulaM

The 30-minute ferry ride to Manly is often called "Sydney's best-value cruise," and for good reason. This buzzing beach suburb offers the perfect mix of harbor views, beach culture, and coastal charm. From the ferry wharf, follow the palm-tree lined Corso to famous Manly Beach, or take the hidden path around Shelly Beach for stunning harbor headland views. Don't Miss: Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk (10km, stunning harbour views) Sheltered Shelly Beach for snorkelling North Head for whale watching (May-November) Little Manly Beach for quiet harbour swims Sunset drinks at Felons on Manly Wharf Local's Tips: Take the 7:30am ferry for chance dolphin sightings Grab breakfast at Barefoot Coffee Traders Visit Monday-Friday to avoid weekend crowds Last ferry back is late (around midnight) Sit on ferry's port (left) side heading to Manly, starboard (right) returning for best views Getting there: 30-minute ferry from Circular Quay (sit outside upper deck for best experience). Fast ferries take 18 minutes but aren't as scenic.

Add to

Details

Manly

@PaulaM

The 30-minute ferry ride to Manly is often called "Sydney's best-value cruise," and for good reason. This buzzing beach suburb offers the perfect mix of harbor views, beach culture, and coastal charm. From the ferry wharf, follow the palm-tree lined Corso to famous Manly Beach, or take the hidden path around Shelly Beach for stunning harbor headland views. Don't Miss: Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk (10km, stunning harbour views) Sheltered Shelly Beach for snorkelling North Head for whale watching (May-November) Little Manly Beach for quiet harbour swims Sunset drinks at Felons on Manly Wharf Local's Tips: Take the 7:30am ferry for chance dolphin sightings Grab breakfast at Barefoot Coffee Traders Visit Monday-Friday to avoid weekend crowds Last ferry back is late (around midnight) Sit on ferry's port (left) side heading to Manly, starboard (right) returning for best views Getting there: 30-minute ferry from Circular Quay (sit outside upper deck for best experience). Fast ferries take 18 minutes but aren't as scenic.

Add to

Details

Rose Bay

@PaulaM

This elegant harbour suburb offers a unique blend of seaplane adventures, waterfront dining, and hidden beaches. Once Sydney's first international airport, Rose Bay is now the base for scenic seaplane flights and harbour kayaking adventures. The promenade along New South Head Road provides continuous harbour views and access to secluded beaches. Highlights: Watch seaplanes take off and land while dining at Catalina Hire kayaks from Rose Bay Aquatic Hire Visit the secret Milk Beach via the Hermitage Foreshore track Take a scenic seaplane flight to Palm Beach Explore Murray Rose Pool (formerly Redleaf Pool) Local's Tips: Morning is best for calm water activities Book a sunset table at Regatta Rose Bay Walk the Rose Bay to Watsons Bay track (8km) Visit Nielsen Park's netted beach for safe swimming Free parking available at Lyne Park Getting there: Take a ferry from Circular Quay (25 mins) or bus 324/325 from the city. Combine with a visit to Watsons Bay for a perfect day out.

Add to

Details

Watsons Bay

@PaulaM

This charming fishing village at Sydney's South Head serves up some of the harbour's best views alongside its famous fish and chips. From the historic lighthouse to secluded beaches, Watsons Bay packs countless experiences into one compact peninsula. Must-Do Experiences: Walk to Hornby Lighthouse for dramatic harbour entrance views Lunch at Doyles (fancy restaurant or casual takeaway) Take the South Head Heritage trail for cliff-top ocean views Swim at Camp Cove's sheltered beach Sunset drinks at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel Local's Tips: Visit weekdays to avoid weekend crowds Arrive before noon to score a beach-view table at the hotel Pack water shoes for the secret Lady Bay nude beach Take the 'local's route' through the backstreets to see historic cottages Best sunset views in Sydney (city skyline across the harbour) Perfect Day Plan: Morning ferry from Circular Quay Coffee at Watsons Bay South Head walk (45 mins return) Lunch at Doyles Afternoon swim at Camp Cove Sunset drinks watching the city light up Getting there: 25-minute ferry from Circular Quay or combine with the Rose Bay to Watsons Bay walking track. Last ferry back varies seasonally - check timetables!

Add to

Details

Circular Quay

@PaulaM

Where ferries, trains, and Sydney's most famous landmarks converge, Circular Quay marks the spot of Australia's first European settlement. Yes, it's packed with tourists, but locals know how to navigate its hidden corners and quiet moments. When to Visit: 7-8am: Watch seagulls dive for breakfast as cafes set up 10am-3pm: Peak tourist time (avoid if possible) 4:30-5:30pm: Golden hour for photography After 8pm: Quiet walks when cruise ships depart Must-See Spots: Opera House (walk the full circumference at sunrise) Customs House basement (city model under glass floor) MCA rooftop terrace (local's secret for harbour views) Overseas Passenger Terminal top level (best skyline photos) Hidden Gems: Gateway Food Court (where office workers eat) Opera Bar's lower western corner (usually empty) Cruise Bar rooftop (fraction of Opera Bar prices) Food & Drink: Morning coffee: Bar Mammoni try to resist the pastries! Lunch with a view: Cafe Sydney ($$$) Sunset drinks: Opera Bar (arrive by 4pm for good seats) Dinner splurge: Bennelong (inside the Opera House) Budget eats: Marrickville Pork Roll in Quay Quarter Lanes Transport Tips: Walking access to The Rocks, Bridge, and Royal Botanic Gardens

Add to

Details

Taronga Zoo Sydney

@PaulaM

Perched on harbour hillside, Taronga combines wildlife encounters with Sydney's best skyline views. Quick Tips: Take the bus or walk to the top gate and then walk downhill through the zoo Book first ferry + first entry (9:30am) to see most active animals Australian Walkabout section opens at 9:15am (beat the crowds) Seal show has best harbour backdrop Giraffe enclosure offers perfect city photo ops Getting there: 12-minute ferry from Circular Quay. Buy combined ferry/zoo tickets to save money. Last entry 4pm.

Add to

Details

Lavender Bay

@PaulaM

This tranquil harbour cove offers front-row Bridge views without tourist crowds. Local Secrets Wendy's Secret Garden (free, open daily) Luna Park's vintage face at night Artist Brett Whiteley's former home Protected bay for kayaking Historic timber workers' cottages Photo Spots: Lavender Bay Parklands for Bridge reflections Old ferry wharf at sunrise Art deco buildings along waterfront Tips: Morning light best for photography Walk from Milsons Point station (10 mins) Getting there: Train to Milsons Point or 15-minute walk across Bridge from The Rocks. Or ferry to McMahons Point.

Add to

Details

Middle Harbour

@PaulaM

Away from main harbour traffic, Middle Harbour's protected waters wind past waterfront mansions and hidden beaches only accessible by water. Best Launch Points: The Spit Bridge (parking available) Tunks Park, Cammeray (quieter option) Davidson Park boat ramp (for Garigal National Park access) Paddling Routes: Spit to Bantry Bay (3hrs return, moderate) Sailors Bay circuit (1.5hrs, beginner) Sugarloaf Bay (2hrs, intermediate) Local Tips: Early morning for calm waters Check tide times (easier paddling at high tide) BYO water and snacks (limited shops) Look for sea eagles and pelicans

Add to

Details

Sydney Harbour Bridge

@PaulaM

Sydney Harbour Bridge: Under, Over & Across Experience Sydney's 'Coathanger' from every angle for a complete Bridge adventure. Under It: Jet boats blast underneath at 75km/h Feel dwarfed by 6 million steel rivets Best photo angle of arch structure Watch climbers scaling above Spot base jumpers on special events Over It: BridgeClimb (2.5hrs, book sunrise for best value) Pylon Lookout ($30 adults, no booking needed) Photography platform on south-east pylon 360° harbor views from summit Across It: Free pedestrian walkway (eastern side) 15-minute walk each way Access via Cumberland St, The Rocks Stop halfway for Opera House photos Exit at Milsons Point for Luna Park Local Tips: Book BridgeClimb 3+ months ahead Pylon Museum includes Bridge history. Combine with Blues Point Reserve visit Skip the tourist prices: Walk across for free, then spend your savings on lunch at Kirribilli.

Add to

Details

Luna Park Sydney

@PaulaM

Sydney's heritage amusement park grins across the harbor at the Opera House. That famous face has watched over the water since 1935, now mixing nostalgic charm with modern thrills. Local Tips: Book Squid Game trials ahead (sells out) Visit after 6pm for city light views Photograph the face at blue hour Free entry to walk through Ride passes better value than single tickets Photo Spots: Midway games at dusk Face from Bradfield Park Harbour Bridge from Ferris wheel City skyline from entrance Vintage neon at night Getting there: Milsons Point train station or ferry. Or walk across Bridge from The Rocks (15 mins).

Add to

Details

Murray Rose Pool (Redleaf Pool)

@PaulaM

Formerly Redleaf Pool, this harbourside swimming spot in Double Bay offers a shark-netted enclosure with floating pontoons and wraparound deck. Local office workers escape here for lunch breaks, while morning swimmers claim the wooden promenade for their flat whites and newspapers. The beach kiosk serves excellent coffee, but arrive before 10am on weekends to score a deck chair. Quick Tips: Free entry Change rooms and showers available Best at high tide Combine with Seven Shillings Beach walk

Add to

Details

North Head

@PaulaM

Rising 80 meters above the harbour entrance, North Head offers Sydney's most dramatic coastal views. This ancient headland combines Aboriginal heritage, military history, and whale watching spots. **Best Views:** Third Quarantine Cemetery lookout Fairfax walk circuit (1km) North Fort gun emplacements Shelly Beach overlook City skyline from Australia's Memorial Walk **Wildlife Spotting:** Whales (May-November) Little penguins at dusk Eastern water dragons Echidnas in bush Long-nosed bandicoot **Local Tips:** Visit Q Station at sunset Take Manly to North Head walk Morning best for photography Pack water (limited facilities) **Hidden Spots:** WW2 Memorial Walkway Blue Fish Point Native wildflower garden Old Quarantine Station beach Secret military tunnels (tours available) Getting there: 30-minute ferry to Manly, then 161 bus or 3km walk through native bushland.

Add to

Details

Opera Bar

@PaulaM

The quintessential Sydney sundowner spot, right under the Opera House sails. Live music most afternoons. As popular with locals as it is with visitors. Quick Tips: Arrive 4pm for sunset seats Lower western corner usually quieter Order food from Raw Bar (fresh oysters) Best city views from back tables Getting there: Eastern side of Opera House, follow the harbour promenade. Or exit at lower concourse level from Circular Quay.

Add to

Details

Opera Bar

@PaulaM

The quintessential Sydney sundowner spot, right under the Opera House sails. Live music most afternoons. As popular with locals as it is with visitors. Quick Tips: Arrive 4pm for sunset seats Lower western corner usually quieter Order food from Raw Bar (fresh oysters) Best city views from back tables Getting there: Eastern side of Opera House, follow the harbour promenade. Or exit at lower concourse level from Circular Quay.

Add to

Details

Doyles on the Beach Restaurant

@PaulaM

A Sydney institution since 1885, serving fish and chips with harbour views at Watsons Bay. Quick Tips: Two options: Restaurant or takeaway wharf Restaurant: Book window seats ahead Takeaway: Queue before 12pm or after 2pm Local's order: Beer-battered fish & chips BYO wine to restaurant ($10 corkage) Getting there: Ferry to Watsons Bay. Restaurant on beach, takeaway at wharf. Weekday lunch better than weekends.

Add to

Details

Midden by Mark Olive

@PaulaM

Mark Olive's fine-dining restaurant celebrates Indigenous ingredients with stunning harbour views, offering unique experiences from native-inspired high teas to evening tasting menus. Consistently praised for its innovative dishes we loved the wallaby shank and blue gum barramundi, other popular dishes include the Indigenous platter featuring kangaroo, crocodile, and emu, while the sunset views of the Harbour Bridge create an unforgettable dining backdrop.

Add to

Details

Milk Beach

@PaulaM

This hidden harbour gem in Vaucluse offers postcard-perfect city views from a pristine stretch of sand most tourists never find. Local Secrets: Access via Hermitage Foreshore Track Best at high tide for swimming Morning light perfect for photos Heritage Strickland House backdrop Snorkel around rocky edges Quick Tips: Pack everything (no facilities) Limited shade (morning best) Street parking on Vaucluse Road Combine with Rose Bay coffee run Weekdays quieter than weekends Getting there: 15-minute walk from Rose Bay or Watson's Bay. Follow Hermitage Foreshore Track from Bayview Hill Road or Nielsen Park.

Add to

Details