Westpac Open Air Cinema, Mrs Macquaries PointCredit: Destination NSW
Patrons enjoying a movie at the Westpac Open Air Cinema located on the iconic harbour foreshore in Mrs Macquaries Point.
When clear summer skies and beautiful weather land in Sydney, one may think the best way to spend a day is at the beach, but come nightfall, the city invites you to catch the latest blockbuster or cult classic with nothing between you and the stars.
From one of the most coveted views in the world to a BYO picnic and pet friendly chillout, these outdoor cinemas boast unique and unforgettable experiences. Just try not to let the vista distract you when it’s showtime…
Mov’in Bed Cinema, Barangaroo
With 280 tonnes of white sand, over 150 plush queen-sized beds, and a 15-metre 4K screen, you can quickly see how Barangaroo’s Mov’in Bed is the world’s biggest outdoor bed cinema.
With a backdrop that includes both the Barangaroo skyline and Darling Harbour glistening at sunset, sessions will screen every Wednesday to Sunday night from November to April. Cosy up with your friends or loved ones for the most comfortable way to catch a film.
- How to get there: Barangaroo Metro will land you right at the Cinema entrance, alternatively take a 150min walk from both Wynard and Circular Quay stations.
- What to bring: Food and beverages can be delivered straight to your seat so no need to BYO. In case the temperature drops after sundown, warm clothing is recommended.
Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Park
Not to be content with one of the best running/dog-walking/picnic sites in Sydney, Centennial Park in Paddington also hosts a seasonal Moonlight Cinema pop-up until the end of March. BYO picnic blankets, snacks and four legged friends. If you forget treats from home, never fear, food trucks with Oscar worthy treats are also available.
- How to get there: Although limited free parking is available, frequent trains, light rail services and regular bus routes is best way to get to and from Centennial Parklands.
- What to bring: Picnic blankets and rugs, a short leash (2m or under) for pets along with your favourite cinema snacks.
Westpac OpenAir Cinema, Sydney Harbour
Watching a film at Mrs Macqauries Point is only half the experience at Westpac OpenAir, we recommend arriving well before sunset to enjoy outdoor dining from leading chefs and bar experiences with one of the most enviable views in the world.
At dusk, take your seat in the custom-built grandstand as a giant cinema screen emerges from the Sydney Harbour, three stories high. Dubbed “the world’s most beautiful cinema”, and running from January each year for a limited season, it is a must do for visitors and locals alike.
- How to get there: Based in the city, public transport is your best bet, why not take the Ferry into Circular Quay and soak up more of the harbour?
- What to bring: With tiered, allocated seating there’s no need for picnic blankets or pillows. Outside food and drink is also not permitted.
Mov'in Bed Beach Cinema, Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Friends cosying up with a snack at the Mov'in Bed outdoor cinema in Barangaroo with their pooch pals.
Mov'in Bed Beach Cinema, Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Friends cosying up with a snack at the Mov'in Bed outdoor cinema in Barangaroo with their pooch pals.
Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Parklands, Sydney Credit: Centennial Parklands
Centennial Park - outdoor cinema at its best. Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park, Sydney.
Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Parklands, Sydney Credit: Centennial Parklands
Centennial Park - outdoor cinema at its best. Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park, Sydney.
Sunset Cinema, North Sydney and Bondi Beach
This one for all families, big and small. Take up space on the grass with your own picnic items, or purchase entry to the Fever Tree Lounge where you can experience premium viewing, bottomless popcorn and plush seating options.
Choose either Bondi Beach (mid-November to mid-December) or North Sydney (mid-December to mid-March) as your cinema of choice.
During the film, enjoy your classic movie must haves (bottomless popcorn anyone?) as well as authentic Italian pizzas to enjoy.
- How to get there:
- North Sydney: Victoria Cross Metro and North Sydney Train stations are in walking distance, Street parking is available. Accessible entrance is available via Ridge Street.
- Bondi: Limited metered parking via Campbell Parade. Bondi Pavilion is easily accessed by bus, approximately 20 minutes from Sydney CBD.
- What to bring: The whole family along with low sitting chairs and beanbags. Note this is a cashless venue and pets are not permitted.
Skyline Drive-In, Blacktown
For those who like their movie watching experiences a little old school, Western Sydney’s Skyline Drive-In is a throw back to the 1950s in every way. Americana diner style food is on offer as movies on the big screen take you back in time. No need to wait for warmer weather, this one is open all year round.
- How to get there: Blacktown is 45 min drive west of the CBD.
- What to bring: While convertibles are optional, ensure your vehicle has a working AM radio to take advantage of the full experience.
Skyline Drive In Blacktown Credit: Destination NSW
Couple sitting in their car ready to watch a movie at the Skyline Drive In Blacktown.
Skyline Drive In Blacktown Credit: Destination NSW
Couple sitting in their car ready to watch a movie at the Skyline Drive In Blacktown.
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The Library Bar, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at the Library Bar, located on the rooftop of the State Library of NSW.
Sydney is a city that dazzles from every angle, but there’s something extra special about enjoying a drink with a view from above. Whether you're gazing at the glittering harbour, soaking up beachside vibes, or catching a sunset over the mountains, these rooftop bars offer the perfect perch for summer travellers. Here are the top spots to sip and savour the city skyline.
Rooftop Bars in the Heart of Sydney
Sydney’s city centre is a treasure trove of rooftop bars that blend urban energy with sweeping vistas. From hidden gems above heritage buildings to luxe lounges perched high above the skyline, these venues offer the perfect escape from the bustling streets below. Whether you're after a sunset cocktail or a late-night vibe, these rooftops deliver unforgettable views of the harbour and iconic landmarks.
Library Bar – The Domain
Great for: Hidden city views and local spirits
Tucked atop the historic State Library of NSW, Library Bar is a local secret with panoramic views of the Domain and Sydney Harbour. Accessed via a hidden entrance on Hospital Road, this rooftop gem serves cocktails made with local spirits and Hunter Valley wines. Keep an eye out for Fresh Takes, a seasonal series of live poetry and storytelling nights.
Aster Bar – Circular Quay
Great for: Luxury vibes and iconic views
Located on the 32nd floor of the InterContinental Sydney, Aster Bar offers 270-degree views of the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. The celestial-themed cocktails and velvet lounge setting make it a refined spot for sunset martinis and sky-high indulgence.
Untied – Barangaroo
Great for: Tropical cocktails and vegan bites
This vibrant rooftop oasis in Barangaroo is all about colour and flavour. With a menu full of fusion plates and plant-based options, Untied is perfect for casual catchups. Saturdays bring bottomless brunches with live entertainment and Southern-style food, all set against waterfront views.
Smoke Bar – Barangaroo
Great for: Sunset sessions and DJ sets
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek, stylish venue with sweeping views over Darling Harbour. The cocktail list is inventive, the wine selection curated by sommeliers, and the vibe elevated by DJs spinning from Thursday to Sunday.
JOJI – CBD
Great for: Late-night bites and beats
JOJI is where Sydney’s nightlife meets Japanese flair. This restaurant-bar-club hybrid serves up Japanese burgers by award-winning chef Paul Farag, cocktails inspired by Tokyo’s bar scene, and DJ sets that keep the energy going until 2am.
Harper Rooftop Bar – CBD
Great for: Poolside luxury and summery bites
Above the Kimpton Margot Hotel, Harpers is one of Sydney’s largest open-air rooftop bars. With a poolside setting and a menu by renowned chef Luke Mangan, it’s a chic spot to unwind with seasonal dishes and refreshing drinks.
Harper Rooftop Bar Credit: Dexter Kim
Perched high above the CBD on Level 7 of Kimpton Margot Sydney, Harper Rooftop Bar is a sprawling retreat designed by FiveFootDesign.
Harper Rooftop Bar Credit: Dexter Kim
Perched high above the CBD on Level 7 of Kimpton Margot Sydney, Harper Rooftop Bar is a sprawling retreat designed by FiveFootDesign.
Smoke Bar in Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek rooftop destination offering panoramic harbour views, inventive cocktails, and a curated menu of elevated snacks and share plates. With live DJs and a sunset-ready vibe, it’s the perfect spot for Golden Hour—grab a drink, watch the sun dip over the water, and settle in for a stylish night out in the heart of Sydney.
Smoke Bar in Barangaroo Credit: Destination NSW
Perched atop Barangaroo House, Smoke Bar is a sleek rooftop destination offering panoramic harbour views, inventive cocktails, and a curated menu of elevated snacks and share plates. With live DJs and a sunset-ready vibe, it’s the perfect spot for Golden Hour—grab a drink, watch the sun dip over the water, and settle in for a stylish night out in the heart of Sydney.
Rooftop Bars by the Sea
For those chasing ocean breezes and coastal charm, Sydney’s beachside rooftop bars are a must. These venues serve up laid-back vibes, fresh seafood, and panoramic views of the Pacific. Perfect for post-swim drinks or golden hour gatherings, these rooftops capture the essence of Sydney’s summer lifestyle.
Coogee Pavilion – Coogee
Great for: Ocean views and Middle Eastern flavours
Just steps from the beach, Coogee Pavilion’s rooftop terrace offers unbeatable views of the Pacific. With four bars surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a breezy, beachside escape. The food leans Mediterranean, perfect for post-swim feasting.
Bombies – Freshwater
Great for: Surf culture and live music
Bombies is a laid-back rooftop bar inspired by the golden era of surf culture. Overlooking Freshwater Beach, it’s a nostalgic nod to the area’s history, serving tropical cocktails, coastal eats, and live music in a relaxed, retro setting.
Bombies rooftop bar in Freshwater Credit: Destination NSW
Freshwater’s iconic Harbord Hotel is raising the bar with the debut of Bombies – a 70s-inspired rooftop barand music venue that captures the spirit of surf culture’s golden era. This sun-drenched oceanfront bar evokesthe laid-back energy of a beach house party, set against the stunning backdrop of Freshwater Beach.
Bombies rooftop bar in Freshwater Credit: Destination NSW
Freshwater’s iconic Harbord Hotel is raising the bar with the debut of Bombies – a 70s-inspired rooftop barand music venue that captures the spirit of surf culture’s golden era. This sun-drenched oceanfront bar evokesthe laid-back energy of a beach house party, set against the stunning backdrop of Freshwater Beach.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Coogee Beach, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Afternoon sun shining over Coogee Beach, Coogee.
SOCIAL MEDIA 1:1 - Coogee Beach, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Afternoon sun shining over Coogee Beach, Coogee.
Rooftop Bars with a Different Perspective
Beyond the city and coast, Western Sydney offers a fresh take on rooftop culture. These elevated venues combine stylish design, diverse menus, and sweeping views, from the skyline to the Blue Mountains. Whether you're in Penrith, Oran Park or Bankstown, these bars bring a vibrant, local flavour to your summer nights.
Theo’s Rooftop Bar – Penrith
Great for: Mountain sunsets and Mediterranean vibes
Located atop Astina Suites in Western Sydney, Theo’s offers a surprising escape with views of the Blue Mountains. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes like saffron prawn linguine and wagyu sliders, perfect for sunset sipping.
Jinja Rooftop Bar – Oran Park
Great for: Asian fusion and fire pit ambience
Jinja brings a stylish, adults-only vibe to Western Sydney with panoramic views, plush seating, and fire pits. The Asian-inspired menu includes dumplings, bao, and lobster toast, paired with expertly crafted cocktails. Open Thursday to Sunday.
Lady Banks Rooftop Bar – Bankstown
Great for: Skyline views and elegant design
Lady Banks offers 360-degree views from the Sydney skyline to the Blue Mountains. Inspired by the Lady Banks rose, this rooftop bar blends modern flair with botanical elegance. It’s a standout destination for cocktails and sunset selfies.
Whether you're beach-bound, city-hopping, or exploring Sydney’s west, these rooftop bars offer the perfect mix of atmosphere, flavour, and unforgettable views. Cheers to summer in one of the world’s most beautiful cities!
Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith Credit: Destination NSW
Friends relax by the pool at Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith
Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith Credit: Destination NSW
Friends relax by the pool at Theo’s Rooftop Bar, Penrith
Lady Banks Rooftop, Bankstown Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at Lady Banks Rooftop in Bankstown
Lady Banks Rooftop, Bankstown Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying drinks at Lady Banks Rooftop in Bankstown