• Swim in the harbour at Barangaroo

    A uniquely Australian thing to do in Sydney Harbour

    Free: Completely free

    Highlights

    • One of the most unique experiences to Sydney
    • A brand new rock-pool has been opened in the harbour
    • A truly different experience for singles, families, couples

    Details

    Swimming at Barangaroo in the heart of the Sydney CBD is a truly unique Sydney experience. This pool has only recently opened at the start of 2023, and is already showing itself to be one of the best pools to swim in the world. It is walking distance from the main part of Sydney, and offers a netted harbour pool, bathrooms, showers, and rocks to sunbake on. Be careful though, because the rocks can be a bit slippery getting in and out.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Adults
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Marrinawi Cove, Barangaroo https://goo.gl/maps/Z6gyyQCGRNzciwYY8

    Approx time required: 1 hour 30 min

    Visit the official website 
  • Harbour Bridge Audio+Puzzle Tour

    A unique and affordable way to learn about and experience the bridge

    Paid: $25 per tour kit (for up to 3 people)

    Highlights

    • Outdoor 'escape-room' style puzzles
    • Audiobook quality commentary
    • Deep historical insight into the bridge & it's construction

    Details

    This Sydney Harbour Bridge Tour has been put together by a former Bridgeclimb climb leader/guide, and offers detailed information and Sydney Harbour Bridge facts, as well as entertaining stories and facts about the bridge and its construction. A great way to learn about the bridge and have some fun at the same time!

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Adults
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Dawes Point and surrounds

    Approx time required: 2 hours

    Read more 
  • Catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly

    Beach Bliss & Bustling Vibes

    Paid: Cost is about $8 each way

    Highlights

    • The cheapest harbour cruise (sort of cruise) in Sydney
    • Get a water level view of the city
    • Explore, grab a bite to eat or a drink in Manly

    Details

    Catching the ferry to Manly is like embarking on a mini-adventure, where you leave the bustling city behind and cruise across the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbor, revealing stunning coastal scenery along the way. As you approach Manly, the anticipation builds, promising a day of relaxation on beautiful beaches, exploration of charming streets, and a taste of seaside dining.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Teenagers
    • Young Adults
    • Young Professionals
    • Adults
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Departs from Wharf 3, Circular Quay https://goo.gl/maps/BaYWMTNzJqe6SAdZ8

    Approx time required: 2 hours 30 mins

    See details 
  • Visit/Picnic/Walk the Royal Botanical Gardens

    Urban Oasis of Greenery

    Free: Entry to the gardens is completely free

    Highlights

    • The gardens showcase a rich variety of global plant species
    • The stunning location offers incredible views of the harbor
    • The gardens host a variety of activities and guided tours

    Details

    Visiting the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens is like stepping into a living encyclopedia of plants, where you can explore lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and a diverse range of botanical wonders from around the world. As you meander through this scenic oasis by Sydney Harbor, you'll not only find tranquility but also enjoy sweeping views of iconic landmarks like the Opera House, making it a truly enriching experience.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Young Adults
    • Young Professionals
    • Adults
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Beside Circular Quay, Sydney CBD https://goo.gl/maps/S7aMGxFre8eiR6t27

    Approx time required: 1 hour 30 min

    Visit website 
  • Pedal Through Scenic Paradise at Centennial Park

    Explore Two Wheels, Two Parks

    Paid: Bike hire from $25 per hour

    Highlights

    • Discover hidden gardens & iconic sights
    • Enjoy leisurely family rides
    • Cycle at your own pace

    Details

    Centennial Park, Sydney's green oasis, welcomes you on two wheels. Glide through picturesque pathways, past historic landmarks, and enjoy the vibrant park atmosphere at your own pace.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Young Adults
    • Young Professionals
    • Adults
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Centennial Park, Paddington, NSW https://maps.app.goo.gl/bYrP5MVXkGZhATPeA

    Approx time required: 1 hour 30 min

    See Bike Hire Options 
  • Do the Spit to Manly Walk

    A stunning walk through bush and past hidden beaches

    Free: Completely free

    Highlights

    • See beautiful beaches and landscapes
    • Get in touch with nature walking through bushland
    • Easily accessible in the heart of Sydney

    Details

    The Spit to Manly walk is a fantastic walk of about 3 hours. We recommend starting at the Spit and walking to Manly, and then you can enjoy something to eat or drink once you're finished.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Teenagers
    • Adults
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Starts at the Spit Bridge, Mosman/Seaforth https://goo.gl/maps/ayryjLVwhXrj9kQy7

    Approx time required: 4 hours

    Find out more 
  • Visit the Wendy Whitely Secret Garden at Lavender Bay

    A hidden garden oasis full of ferns, fairy houses and artworks

    Free: Completely free to enter

    Highlights

    • One of Sydney's best kept harbourside secrets
    • Explore the fairy houses, hidden pathways and beautiful plan
    • Find a spot to sit and have a coffee or picnic

    Details

    If you asked around, you would find that many people have heard of Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, and some would have already been there and connected with it. It is not really a secret. It is actually one of the worst kept secrets in Sydney. It is a wonderful experience wandering through the different levels of the garden, observing the fairy houses, the artefacts and artworks, and of course the wonderful plants and luscious landscapes.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Adults
    • Seniors
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Right in the heart of Lavender Bay https://goo.gl/maps/5yKvrfVDRJq6D9xB7

    Approx time required: 2 hours

    Visit Website 
  • Go to Balmoral Beach for a swim, a walk, or some coffee & cake

    Secluded Harbour Paradise

    Free: Free to explore the beach, swim. Book ahead for Bathers Pavilion

    Highlights

    • One of Sydneys most beautiful harbour beaches
    • Swim, walk along the beach, explore the rock pools
    • Grab a coffee and cake at the stunning Bathers Pavilion

    Details

    Nestled along Sydney's picturesque coastline, Balmoral Beach is a serene oasis that captivates hearts with its natural beauty and inviting ambiance. With its pristine golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views, Balmoral Beach offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're seeking solitude, a romantic outing, or quality time with loved ones, Balmoral Beach beckons with its enchanting blend of nature's beauty and laid-back charm. Unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the coastal magic that defines Balmoral Beach.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Teenagers
    • Young Adults
    • Adults
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Balmoral Beach, Mosman https://goo.gl/maps/FJ7CbSTkoTbm1EEy5

    Approx time required: 3 hours

    Visit website 
  • Visit a gaming arcade like Timezone

    Play an array of old school and modern arcade games, from shooters to driving and prize games

    Paid: Games start from just $2

    Highlights

    • Plenty of games to choose from
    • Suitable for all ages, and in all weather
    • See what prizes you can score from tickets

    Details

    Tired of playing the same old video games at home? Why not up the ante with a trip to a Timezone arcade near you? It's video arcade games galore where you can smash some high scores! From arcade classics to next-level immersive virtual reality games, there’s something for everyone at Timezone.

    This is most suitable for:

    • Kids
    • Pre-teens
    • Teenagers
    • Families
    • Budget travellers, Backpackers, Uni students

    Location: Various locations accross Sydney (incl CBD)

    Approx time required: 2 hours

    See Timezone Locations