Sydney Harbour, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney.
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Feel your senses come alive as you absorb the energy and the natural beauty of Sydney. Rediscover the joys of life as you plunge into the ocean, trace the paths of the city’s Traditional Owners, scale new heights or delve into the city’s vibrant multicultural dining scene.
Hydrate your soul
Stock up on Vitamin Sea as you dive into one of the dozens of ocean pools dotted around the city, such as Bondi Icebergs, Bronte Baths or Freshwater Rockpool, where sparkling seas have revitalised Sydneysiders since the 19th century. Or breathe in the crisp salt air and feel the sun and the breeze across your skin as you learn to sail across Sydney Harbour with EastSail. You’ll feel like you’re part of a living postcard as you bob along surrounded by countless yachts on the glittering harbour.
Tune in to an ancient heartbeat
Reach out and feel the sacred rhythm that beats strong and proud beneath the buzz of the city. Expand your horizons as you come to learn of the deep connection Sydney’s original inhabitants have with the harbour and its foreshores on Dreamtime Southern X’s The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour (Illi Langi). Cross Circular Quay for an Aboriginal Bush Tucker Tour through the Royal Botanic Garden’s Cadi Jam Ora garden. Or be transported back in time as your Barangaroo Aboriginal Cultural Tours guide explains how the Gadigal people, the Traditional Owners of the land now known as Barangaroo, used the native trees and plants in this harbourside headland for food and medicine.
Savour a new flavour
Feed both your hunger and your appetite for discovery on a foodie tour of Sydney’s multicultural neighbourhoods, from classic Vietnamese in Cabramatta to Afghani street fare in Merrylands. Get your hands on just-caught fish and learn how to showcase the incredible flavours of the ocean’s bounty at a cooking class at the Sydney Fish Market’s Sydney Seafood School in inner-city Pyrmont. Taste a new ale on an odyssey through the inner city’s craft breweries with Dave’s Brewery Tours, or seek out hidden bars in the heart of the city on a Drink & Discover Secret Bar Crawl with Local Sauce Tours.
Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
A sunrise swim at Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
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Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
A sunrise swim at Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
Dreamtime Southern X, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Margret Campbell performing a smoking ceremony at Blues Point Reserve, Blues Point in Sydney as part of the Dreamtime Southern X experience.
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Dreamtime Southern X, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Margret Campbell performing a smoking ceremony at Blues Point Reserve, Blues Point in Sydney as part of the Dreamtime Southern X experience.
Soak up a glamorous sunset
Feel the excitement in the air as the sun sinks down behind Sydney Harbour Bridge, setting the scene for a night full of possibilities. Take a dip in Crown Towers Sydney’s infinity pool and catch the moment when the city lights glitter to life from the dining hub of Barangaroo. Bask in the last rays of sunshine from a rooftop bar such as Smoke in Barangaroo, or a waterfront watering hole like the Wharf Bar in Manly. Fill your glass with sparkles at Opera Bar, at the foot of the Sydney Opera House, as locals loosen their ties, then feast on fine fare at Bennelong, under the sails of the Sydney Opera House.
A feast for your senses
Invite Sydney’s dazzling harbour views to the table when you dine at some of the city’s finest restaurants. Toast the Sydney Opera House from Quay, across the water from the iconic building in the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, or Cafe Sydney, on top of Circular Quay’s grand Customs House. Feel on top of the world at Crown Sydney’s fine-dining restaurants, including Nobu Matsuhisa’s Nobu or Oncore by acclaimed British chef Clare Smyth, in Barangaroo. Or sip sparkling wine and devour fresh seafood at beachfront and harbourside restaurants like Coogee Pavilion, Doyle’s on the Beach at Watsons Bay or the Boathouse Balmoral Beach.
Conquer the world together
Feel your love soar as you take to the skies for romantic moments that’ll bring you closer. Soak up spectacular views over the harbour and the city’s Northern Beaches on a Sydney Seaplanes flight to the lush Hawkesbury River, where you’ll find treasure at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Or whisk away your partner away to pretty Pittwater for an unforgettable lunch at outstanding restaurants such as Cottage Point Inn or Berowra Waters Inn. Get your hearts pumping in unison as you stand hand in hand atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge on an adventure with BridgeClimb, then cosy up together in a restaurant in The Rocks for a date night you’ll never forget.
Coogee Pavilion, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying tapas at Una Más restaurant on the middle level of the Coogee Pavilion, Coogee,
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Coogee Pavilion, Coogee Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying tapas at Una Más restaurant on the middle level of the Coogee Pavilion, Coogee,
Hawkesbury River Credit: Destination NSW
Hawkesbury River. This is the high res copy of this image.
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Hawkesbury River Credit: Destination NSW
Hawkesbury River. This is the high res copy of this image.
Be moved by powerful stories
Laugh, cry or wonder at stories that bring you and the rest of the audience together at theatre and shows in Sydney. Watch more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture spring to life in contemporary dance at a Bangarra performance in the Walsh Bay arts precinct, where you can also thrill to tales brought to life by the Sydney Theatre Company. Lose yourself in a musical at the Sydney Lyric Theatre or explore a wide range of comedy, music, dance and more at the Sydney Opera House, including performances by Opera Australia and Sydney Dance Company.
Go wild in the city
There’s nothing like seeing some of Australia’s astonishing wildlife up close for you to recapture your childhood fascination with the natural world. Gaze up at slow-moving koalas in eucalypt trees at Taronga Zoo Sydney, a short ferry ride away from the city centre, or at Wild Life Sydney Zoo, in the waterside entertainment hub of Darling Harbour. Feel a surge of adrenaline as grey nurse, Port Jackson and wobbegong sharks swim past you during the cage-less diving experience Shark Dive Xtreme at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, also in Darling Harbour. Take yourself out of the ordinary when you encounter kangaroos, Tassie devils and wombats at Sydney Zoo, near Blacktown on the city’s fringe, and platypuses and crocodiles at the Australian Reptile Park, an hour’s drive north of Sydney on the Central Coast.
Bangarra Dance Theatre, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Bangarra Dance Theatre performance, Sydney.
#feelnewsydney #ilovesydney
Bangarra Dance Theatre, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Bangarra Dance Theatre performance, Sydney.
Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Couple meeting a koala at Taronga Zoo, Mosman in Sydney.
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Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Couple meeting a koala at Taronga Zoo, Mosman in Sydney.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
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The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display 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
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
#feelnewsydney
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
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Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
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Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.