Sydney Luxury Cruise, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Sydney Luxury Cruises operates on Sydney Harbour exploring the harbour beaches, waterfront mansions and icons.
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The city is buzzing – days are long, nights are warm and vibes are high in Sydney during summer. Embrace the very best the city has to offer at the tail end of the year, welcoming new adventures and creating memories with your favourite people. Here are 10 ways to make the most of late December and early January in Sydney.
1. Play outside ’til dark
There’s magic afoot when the sun sets and city lights twinkle to life. Settle in for a night with Sydney’s shimmering skyline at harbourside rooftop bars such as Barangaroo House, Henry Deane or The Glenmore. In the city centre, enjoy urban views at The Rook, Old Mate’s Place or Aster, or visit the Ivy's Pool Club for resort-style glamour. As a sunshiny day turns into a glittery night, settle in for sweeping city views at Mosman’s The Fernery or The Butler in Potts Point.
2. Go shopping
Sydney’s creative flair spans food to fashion, and is eclectic, eccentric and always authentic. Explore artisan markets in The Rocks, Glebe, Paddington and Kirribilli, or if you prefer perusing markets of the fresh produce kind, Carriageworks, Marrickville, Camden and Sutherland’s options are your best bet.
Beyond markets, head to Glenmore Road in Paddington (and the shops east and west of it on Oxford Street) for a plethora of Australian designer boutiques; King Street in Newtown for second-hand fashion; and Birkenhead Point for Sydney’s largest brand outlet.
Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
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Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
King Street, Newtown Credit: Destination NSW
Young people walking down King Street in Newtown
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King Street, Newtown Credit: Destination NSW
Young people walking down King Street in Newtown
3. Upgrade your family barbecue
Polish up your grilling skills at one of Sydney’s cooking schools or leave the sizzling to Darling Harbour’s masters at Waterfront Grill and Hurricanes. If you are seeking something a little more fancy, try Rockpool Bar & Grill in the heart of the CBD, where premium cuts are enhanced by fire and charcoal. Alternatively, gather around one of the city’s many free electric barbecues, such as those at Bicentennial Park at Sydney Olympic Park, and let the kids choose their own adventure as they play in the surroundings.
4. Dance ’til the sun comes up
Whatever gets you grooving, Sydney’s summer nights are made for moving. Dance to a genre-bending mix of music with Sydney Festival’s line-up or throw shapes all New Year’s Day in the Domain at Field Day. Sydney’s iconic nightclubs shouldn’t be forgotten – Sydney’s best dancefloors crank up the electro, house, techno and EDM tunes to move you all night long. The Imperial, The Burdekin, Home and Oxford Art Factory are well worth a boogie.
Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a picnic at Bicentennial Park in Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush
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Bicentennial Park, Sydney Olympic Park Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a picnic at Bicentennial Park in Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush
The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Club event at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
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The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Club event at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
5. Learn about Sydney from a First Nations perspective
Summer’s the season for new discoveries, and throughout Sydney, 65,000-year-old cultural gems are hidden in plain sight. Marvel at ancient Aboriginal rock engravings at Grotto Point; learn from First Nations storytellers in The Rocks, Barangaroo Reserve, and the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney; embrace a new outlook on the Burrawa Aboriginal Climb Experience; or refresh your perspective of January 26 at Yabun Festival, a one-day festival celebrating Aboriginal culture in the Inner West.
6. Make new friends
Nothing brings people together like seeing their team win, and Sydney’s sporting events will have you cheering all summer long. Join likeminded fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the Big Bash League or head to Sydney Olympic Park to catch the Sydney Kings in action. Prefer to stay indoors? Trade the stadium for a legendary sports bars such as the Coogee Bay Hotel, the Courthouse Hotel or The Henson.
Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Barangaroo Reserve Credit: Destination NSW
Woman learning about Aboriginal culture on a tour with Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Barangaroo Reserve.
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Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Barangaroo Reserve Credit: Destination NSW
Woman learning about Aboriginal culture on a tour with Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Barangaroo Reserve.
Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends walking into the Sydney Cricket Ground to watch a game of cricket
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Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends walking into the Sydney Cricket Ground to watch a game of cricket
7. Picnic in style
Picnics in Sydney are almost always accompanied by an incredible backdrop. Snack under the stars with an outdoor flick at the Moonlight Cinema in Centennial Park, park up at Mrs Macquarie's Point for harbourside snacks and Sydney Opera House views, or roll out your rug in one of Sydney’s many gardens and parks.
8. Light up the darkness
By day, Sydney’s summery skies shine every shade of blue; by night, fireworks illuminate them in technicolour. Catch Sydney’s world-famous fireworks on New Year’s Eve and feel the excitement of new beginnings as rainbows explode all over the city. Between celebrations, take in nature’s own light show with stargazing experiences in Campbelltown and Werrington, or catch the moon rise over Long Reef, Cape Solander or Malabar.
Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Parklands, Sydney Credit: Centennial Parklands
Centennial Park - outdoor cinema at its best. Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park, Sydney.
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Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Parklands, Sydney Credit: Centennial Parklands
Centennial Park - outdoor cinema at its best. Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park, Sydney.
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Art installation at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Art installation at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
9. Toast the year ahead
Whether you’re ringing in the New Year or catching up with friends, Sydney’s bars are always a highlight. Wander between waterholes in the YCK Laneways, or head to Marrickville where you’ll find a dense collection of craft breweries and distilleries. Hours roll by in the blink of an eye as you nosh and banter in late-night eateries across Chinatown and Haymarket, or reconnect with mates in the cosy bars of Chippendale, Redfern and Surry Hills.
10. … then break your New Year’s resolutions
Good intentions are one thing, but Sydney’s food scene is another thing entirely – the city is teeming with enough fine dining options to make the incoming year your tastiest yet. Treat yourself to a world-class experience at some of the city’s most revered restaurants such as Quay, Sixpenny, Pilu at Freshwater, Fred’s, and Saint Peter. Prefer to keep things snacky? Head to Chinatown for the Emperors Garden’s legendary cream puffs, Black Star Pastry for an Instagram-famous cake or indulge your sweet tooth at Donut Papi in Marrickville.
Be sure to check business websites and/or social media for up-to-date opening hours and information ahead of your visit.
Black Star Pastry, Rosebery Credit: Destination NSW
Street view of Black Star Pastry, Rosebery.
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Black Star Pastry, Rosebery Credit: Destination NSW
Street view of Black Star Pastry, Rosebery.
More Inspirational Stories
Murray Rose Pool, Double BayCredit: Destination NSW
Harbour views from Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
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Connect with the true essence of Sydney by mingling with the friendly locals and discovering the vibrant energy that defines the city. Beyond its stunning landmarks, Sydney invites you to experience its warmth and charm.
Showstopping At Royal Randwick
Dress to Impress at Royal Randwick Racecourse for a Saturday at the races during the Sydney Everest Carnival. Don’t miss the fresh new destination, the Peacock Lounge in the Winx Stand at Royal Randwick. For five exclusive days only, the Peacock Lounge will be the place to be to elevate your race day
Don't miss the fresh new destination, the Peacock Lounge in the Winx Stand at Royal Randwick. For five exclusive days only, the Peacock Lounge will be the place to be this Carnival to elevate your raceday.
Check out the open air Theatre Of The Horse to watch the racehorses' parade with their jockeys in vibrant racing silks before the competition .Then hit the rose garden for further festivities, this time it’s all about preening and social media.
For post-race shenanigans, join racegoers at one of Paddington’s watering holes including the rooftop at The Light Brigade, The Royal Hotel at Fiveways or The Paddington, which boasts some excellent dining options. Alternatively, saddle up for a pasta blowout at fashionable Paddington institution, 10 William Street.
Salute the Dawn at Bronte Beach
The 440 Run Club is a free Saturday morning running club that is open to everyone at any fitness level. Meet in the park in front of Bronte Beach in the dark, and join a crew of all ages and backgrounds to run, jog or even walk up and down a hill in a continuous loop. Sunrise over this beautiful beach never looked so good.
Afterwards go cafe hopping at the beachside strip and nabone of the outdoor tables for pinch yourself views. The Bogey Hole Cafe is a great place to start.
If you’re still full of beans, do the stunning Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk Follow the scenic pathway back to Bondi or go further afield to another action-packed beach suburb, Coogee. This is also where you’ll find one of Sydney’s Insta-famous restaurants, Mimi’s.
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick Credit: Destination NSW
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick 2014..
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The Championship Races, Royal Randwick Credit: Destination NSW
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick 2014..
Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
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Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
Go Boho In Bondi
Sydney’s famous Bondi has plenty of trophy hang outs including Icebergs Dining Room and the Promenade ,but it also has a Boho beating heart. At North Bondi (which is where the locals swim), refill at heritage cafe, Speedos or drop into the laid back Bondi RSL filled with interesting characters and extraordinary views of the beach.
Explore the shopping thoroughfare of Gould Street with signature store, Tuchuzy and keep walking all the way to the Bondi Farmer’s Market
Other boho outposts include Gertrude & Alice bookstore and cafe on Hall Street, Up South on Bondi Road, Bondi Tony’s for Aussie Burgers in Glenayr Avenue, and Shop & Wine Bar in Curlewis Street Bondi.
Heritage, Art and Harbourside Delights
Sydney’s Parliament House, steeped in colonial history, is open to the public every Monday and Friday. The Legislative Assembly chamber (also known as the bear pit) is the place where laws are made with vigorous debate. Afterwards take a stroll across the Domain, spread out in front of you like a green carpet to the Art Gallery Of NSW. Head to the newly opened and architecturally amazing North Wing - Naala Badu - for lunch at MOD. Dining by Clayton Wells.
Then cool down and at the nearby spectacular, enclosed Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, set into the harbour where you can swim while taking in the yachts and ferries on the other side of the glass.
Finish your day with some soothing drinks at the Library of NSW rooftop bar or head across the road to the Intercontinental Hotel’s scenic Aster Bar for cocktails accompanied by stunning views right down the harbour.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
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Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
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Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
Pining for Manly
Board the Manly Ferry for the 30-minute voyage to Manly - the beachside suburb, ringed with ancient Norfolk Pine trees where it always seems to be holiday time.
Check into the newly revamped Manly Pacific Hotel with its opulent appointments but fairly modest rates. You could also consider Pepper’s Manly Beach, which also just across the road from this prime surf spot. The Corso runs from the Harbour side to the beachside and offers interesting eateries including Butter Boy for their famous cookies baked on the spot. Next door is Norma’s Deli for excellent sandwiches, cakes, and traditional Greek spreads.
Go for a stroll to Shelly Beach where you may encounter some harmless Eastern Water Dragons sun baking on the rocks along the way and ready for their close up. Dip into the water at the beach or the ocean pool then head to The Boathouse where you order at the bar and find your own table. Dine on everything from pizza and salads to fish and chips to get a real taste of Manly.
Spa It Up In Double Bay
Double Bay is Sydney’s most luxe village. It boasts plenty of hair salons along with decadent day spas, excellent shopping and five-star restaurants and bars.Head to All Saint Clinic founded by one of Australia’s best aesthetic skin doctors for pure indulgence where the treatment menu includes the Fire & Ice facial.
Next visit the famous Joh Bailey Salon for a blow out or head to La Boutique in Transvaal Avenue, where owner Belinda Jeffries is the blonde whisperer.
Celebrate the newly refreshed you with a lunch at Margaret Double Bay, owned by prestigious Icon Awards winner, Neil Perry. Take an outdoor table to make your own contribution to Double Bay’s street life, then duck downstairs to the newly opened cocktail bar, Bobbie’s.
You could also have a drink on the deck at a popular locals’ hang out, the 18 Footers Bar Restaurant & Cafe, which is right next to the Double Bay Ferry Wharf. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun setting over the harbour and then hop on a ferry back to Circular Quay.
Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
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Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.
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Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.