Bondi to Manly Walk, Bondi BeachCredit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk along Bondi Beach, Sydney.
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From sun-drenched beach swims to surprising new ways to play, Sydney's golden days are extraordinary – throughout spring, summer and well beyond. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of the city’s stunning rays.
Become part of the harbour’s sparkle
Let Sydney Harbour fill you with inspiration as light dances across the harbour’s surface on an early-morning adventure with Ozpaddle, or take your place on the water on a boat adventure with EastSail or My Sydney Boat. If you’d prefer to stay ashore, enjoy long, sunny days exploring the harbour’s secret beaches and islands, then roll into twilight and wonder at the city’s glittering skyline. Come nightfall, relish in the harbour backdrop as you dive into world-class events at the Sydney Opera House and world-class dining at Bennelong.
Reconnect with nature at sunrise
Wake up with the animals at the Roar & Snore accommodation experience at Taronga Zoo, salute the sun with a free Yoga Under the Bridge class or ease into the day with a stand-up paddleboarding adventure from Manly Kayak Centre. Back on land, see the sandstone cliffs and world-famous beaches on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, enjoying the cafes and kiosks along the way, or head inland to Lake Parramatta, Western Sydney Parklands or Ku-ring-gai National Park for a gentle meander through lush bushland.
Sydney Harbour Boat Tours, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
With Sydney Harbour Boat Tours, discover the hidden gems on Sydney Harbour. Small-group personalised experiences where you will see wildlife including whales, dolphins and seals. Stop in at secluded national park bays and beaches.
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Sydney Harbour Boat Tours, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
With Sydney Harbour Boat Tours, discover the hidden gems on Sydney Harbour. Small-group personalised experiences where you will see wildlife including whales, dolphins and seals. Stop in at secluded national park bays and beaches.
Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Resident giraffes at Taronga Zoo, Mosman in Sydney.
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Taronga Zoo, Mosman Credit: Destination NSW
Resident giraffes at Taronga Zoo, Mosman in Sydney.
Drift off to the sounds of the sea
Sun, surf and sunshine make every beach holiday worthwhile – but it’s staying in laidback luxury that make a Sydney holiday sing. Kick back and relax at Lilypad Palm Beach, a floating villa surrounded by the beauty of Palm Beach and/or dine or wine at Jonah’s Whale Beach, after a day spent exploring the Northern Beaches peninsula. Post sunset, soak up views of Sydney’s sparkling harbour from the comfort of your suite at Pier One Sydney Harbour, Four Seasons Hotel, W Sydney, Sebel Quay West, or Ovolo Woolloomooloo.
Be revitalised by a new rush
Feel on top of the world as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Aboriginal storyteller on BridgeClimb’s Burrawa Aboriginal Climb Experience. Take a scenic Sydney Seaplanes flight, then learn to surf in Bondi or Manly – the sweeping views between these two seaside suburbs are worth checking out on one of Sydney’s most epic trails: the Bondi to Manly Walk. Head south of the city to Cronulla for more incredible surfing, plus access to the jaw-dropping 26km Coast Track through the Royal National Park. Here you can continue your adventures by mountain bike riding the Loftus loop trail, or hiring a canoe or kayak from Audley Boat Shed.
Make the most of the long, warm nights
The energy is electric come nightfall in Sydney, as a balmy breeze casts its spell across the city. Assemble your crew for drinks with a view at Henry Deane, Smoke, Aster or Opera Bar, or clink glasses in YCK Laneways’ secret speakeasies. Then make the most of Sydney’s jam-packed calendar of sporting events, theatre shows and live music, or head to the Inner West for a headline gig at the Enmore Theatre, NSW's longest-running theatre. Afterwards, debrief over a late-night feast in Darling Quarter (near Darling Harbour) or Chinatown.
Jonah's, Whale Beach Credit: Destination NSW
Woman enjoying ocean views from Jonah's on Whale Beach.
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Jonah's, Whale Beach Credit: Destination NSW
Woman enjoying ocean views from Jonah's on Whale Beach.
Sydney Seaplanes, Rose Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a pre-flight champagne before departing on their Sydney Seaplanes experience from Rose Bay, Sydney.
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Sydney Seaplanes, Rose Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a pre-flight champagne before departing on their Sydney Seaplanes experience from Rose Bay, Sydney.
Revive your spirit in soothing waters
With a plethora of beaches between Cronulla and Palm Beach, Sydney is a saltwater playground for every swimmer. Strap on your snorkel and immerse yourself in the marine wonderland of Cabbage Tree Bay or get your wildlife fix on dry land at Cape Solander, where whales migrate past the soaring sandstone escarpment (peak season is around June and July). When it’s time to just kick back and rejuvenate, make it your mission to visit each of the city’s outdoor pools, stunning oceanside swimming spots, many of which have been spectacularly carved into the rock.
Plate up new memories
Match these shiny days with memorable foodie experiences across the city. Savour fresh seafood at the Sydney Fish Market, enjoy a long lunch on the water at Catalina, dine al fresco on the Woolloomooloo wharf or let your tastebuds guide you through Chinatown, where there’s an incredible mix of cuisines from Cantonese to Korean barbecue, plus cocktails and excellent yum cha.
Let curiosity lead you out of town
With so many incredible holiday hubs within easy reach of the city, why not savour a scenic day trip? Journey south and follow the Grand Pacific Drive across the Sea Cliff Bridge for a memorable day on the South Coast. Head north and beach hop along the Central Coast or west to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains for a day of wild walks, grand gardens, intriguing caves and cable-car adventures.
Beyond Skyway, Katoomba Credit: Cam Jones Imagery
Man atop the Scenic Skyway cabin as part of the Beyond Skyway experience at Scenic World, Katoomba.
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Beyond Skyway, Katoomba Credit: Cam Jones Imagery
Man atop the Scenic Skyway cabin as part of the Beyond Skyway experience at Scenic World, Katoomba.
Mahon Pool, Maroubra Credit: Destination NSW
Swimmers enjoying Mahon Pool, Maroubra.
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Mahon Pool, Maroubra Credit: Destination NSW
Swimmers enjoying Mahon Pool, Maroubra.
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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.
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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.