Capella SydneyCredit: Timothy Kaye
Capella Sydney: Premier King
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Sydney is blessed with some extraordinary hotels, with winning combinations of great location, thoughtful design and refined service. Here are just a few of the city’s newly opened and recently refurbished luxury stays to check out and check into, from a bold new architectural icon rising up over the harbour to an ultra-luxe reimagining of a handsome sandstone landmark.
Go with the flow at W Sydney, Darling Harbour
Be inspired and energised by the daring architecture and daring interiors of the W Sydney, which rises up in a ribbon-like organic shape over the Darling Harbour entertainment and convention precinct. Make yourself at home in a light-filled room exuding marine chic, from its nautical whites and navy blues to backlighting that recalls the sails of the yachts bobbing in the marina below. Refuel at W’s BTWN restaurant, which draws an urban energy from its location between two elevated expressways, and while away a glorious afternoon at the sun-soaked WET Deck infinity pool and 29/30 rooftop bar. Embark on an aquatic adventure by stepping out of the hotel and jumping into a water taxi outside the International Convention Centre Sydney to explore Sydney Harbour, or follow the waterfront promenade towards the Barangaroo dining precinct and beyond to The Rocks and Circular Quay.
Stay in style at Capella Sydney, city centre
Ascend the marble entrance steps and enter a world of timeless luxury at Capella Sydney, a heritage-listed sandstone building occupying a whole city block in Sydney’s financial district. Feel soothed by the calming colour palette and thoughtfully selected artworks in your room or suite and the serenity of Capella’s enclosed courtyard. Strike out to explore the city – it’s five-minute walk to Circular Quay, your gateway to harbour ferries as well the historic The Rocks precinct and the Sydney Opera House. Or relax with a treatment at the hotel’s elegant Auriga Spa, which features a swimming pool lit from above by historic ‘sky lantern’ light wells. Feel spoilt for choice at dinnertime – opt to dine in at Capella’s signature French-inspired Brasserie 1930; famed nearby restaurants Bentley and Monopole (both run by the team behind Brasserie 1930); Restaurant Hubert, an underground French restaurant with live jazz performances; or celebrated chef Peter Gilmore’s Bennelong at the Sydney Opera House.
Capella Sydney Credit: Timothy Kaye
Capella Sydney: Skyline Suite Twin
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Capella Sydney Credit: Timothy Kaye
Capella Sydney: Skyline Suite Twin
Renew your romance with Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, city centre
Surrender to a heady mix of French hospitality flair and jet-set nostalgia at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, in the city’s financial district. Take in the unique sweeping façade that dates back to 1966 before immersing in the grandeur of the hotel’s recent $60 million refurbishment. Settle in to a room reimagined in a blend of contemporary style and classic charm before sampling the hotel’s all-new dining precinct by the group behind Circular Quay’s Hinchcliff House restaurant and bar collection. Savour local seafood roasted in a charcoal oven at the ground-floor Tilda restaurant after a cocktail at Bar Tilda. Or make the most of a warm evening with drinks at the Wentworth Bar’s rooftop terrace, followed by dinner on the outdoor terrace at Vietnamese-French restaurant Delta Rue, both on the fifth floor of the hotel.
Gaze out at the harbour from InterContinental Sydney, city centre
Surround yourself in luxury at the recently refurbished InterContinental Sydney, which occupies the grand 19th-century sandstone Treasury Building at the Circular Quay end of the city centre. Sprawl out on the window-side chaise longue in your Opera House Room and soak up the bird’s eye view of the white sails of the Sydney Opera House, or settle down in your Harbour Bridge Room to watch the tiny figures of climbers ascending the famous steel arches. Take in the whole panorama of the city over a signature cocktail at the reservations-only Aster rooftop bar on the 32nd floor, before taking your table at the ground-floor Pont Dining Room and savouring grilled seafood and steak dishes that reflect Australia’s diverse cultural influences.
Feel at peace at The Porter House Hotel, city centre
Embrace the best of both worlds at The Porter House Hotel, one block away from the shady oasis that is Hyde Park in the heart of the city centre. Marvel at the seamless way a 19th-century sandstone merchant building melds with a more modern tower as you check in and wash away the day’s travels in the free-standing bathtub in a Junior Suite. Feel calmed by the muted blue-grey tones and lashings of natural light in your room as you dress for dinner. And savour dishes displaying Asian influences and employing Australian native ingredients at the Porter House’s excellent Dixson & Sons restaurant.
The Porter House Hotel, Sydney Credit: Steven Woodburn
Superior Room at The Porter House Hotel, Sydney
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The Porter House Hotel, Sydney Credit: Steven Woodburn
Superior Room at The Porter House Hotel, Sydney
The Aster Bar at The Intercontinental, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying drinks at the Aster Bar at The InterContinental hotel in Sydney
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The Aster Bar at The Intercontinental, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying drinks at the Aster Bar at The InterContinental hotel in Sydney
Travel back in time at Kimpton Margot Sydney, city centre
Allow yourself to be transported to the heyday of the Art Deco era at the Kimpton Margot Sydney, on the southern edge of the city centre. Peer up at the giant pink scagliola pillars rising through the double-height grand lobby before settling in to a generously sized suite that feels more like an apartment than a city hotel room. Refresh with a swim in the open-air rooftop pool or a sunset tipple at the hotel’s recently opened Harper Rooftop Bar before deciding where to eat: at the restaurant by acclaimed Australian chef Luke Mangan nestled to one side of the lobby, or at one of the many other fine-diners in the city.
Watch the waves roll in at Manly Pacific, Northern Beaches
Recharge and rejuvenate as sea breezes waft over you and an endless procession of waves crashes onto the golden sands at Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection, in the Northern Beaches hotspot of Manly. Contemplate the famous beach from the balcony of a Superior Ocean View Room, or restore your energy levels in the privacy of your own spacious terrace with beachside views in an Ocean Terrace Room. Watch the shadows of the pine trees lining the beach dissolve into the dusk from the bright, airy 55 North bar off the lobby, devour gelato and authentic Italian pasta dishes at Cibaria Manly, or feast on fresh local seafood at the hotel’s French-influenced Bistro Manly. Gain a new perspective on your ocean view on an Ecotreasures Manly Snorkel Tour of Manly’s Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, or connect to local Indigenous culture on a Northern Beaches Salty Air & Aboriginal Bush Tucker tour with Manly-based Australia by Nature.
Note to editors: Cibaria Manly opens in December 2024.
Kimpton Margot Sydney, Sydney Credit: Kimpton Margot Sydney
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Kimpton Margot Sydney, Sydney Credit: Kimpton Margot Sydney
Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
The Infinity Residence - Living & Dining Room, Manly Pacific
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Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
The Infinity Residence - Living & Dining Room, Manly Pacific
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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.