Sydney is a vibrant city located on Australia’s southeast coast. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, and Sydney Harbour Bridge, are not the only things that make it stand out. Sydney also has some stunning outdoor attractions.
Sydney has it all, even if we are a bit biassed. You can’t think of any other city in the world with as much natural beauty and rich history dating back to thousands of years. There are so many things to do, see, drink and think about in this city that you might feel a bit overwhelmed. We’ve made it easy for you, reader.
As the global pandemic fades away in 2024, it’s the perfect time to explore the outdoors. Here are 10 must-try Sydney activities, from breathtaking coastal walks and thrilling water sports.
Bondi-Coogee Coastal Walk
Put on your walking shoes, and set off for the famed Bondi-Coogee coastal trail. The six-kilometre scenic trail provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. It also offers golden sand beaches.
Enjoy the beautiful Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach. Clovelly Beach is also nearby. Do not forget to bring your camera so you can capture stunning views of the coastline and maybe even spot dolphins or whales playing in the water.
Explore The Inner Workings Of Opera House
Have you ever wondered what the opera house is all about? You’ll get to peek behind-the-scenes of Australia’s iconic building. This will give you the opportunity to explore areas that are normally off limits to the general public.
Gather at the Stage Door to walk the halls of the Opera House and into the dressing room of the Concert Hall and Opera and Drama Theatres. The Playhouse and Studio are also included. The stories and secrets behind the scenes will be told, including the use of props, pulleys and soundchecks. You can even experience what it is like to perform on the stage of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra through an immersive experience.
The Opera House is a foodie’s paradise, with its ‘Taste of the House Tour’.
Watch The Sunset From The Hornby Lighthouse
Camp Cove is a calm bay on the edge of South Head. The vast Pacific Ocean, to the east of this corner of Sydney and the stunning views of the city to the west will leave you in awe. Take the South Head Trail from Watsons Bay to make it a full day. You can take a leisurely stroll and reward yourself with a few drinks at the Watsons Bay Hotel.
When travelling from the city to Watsons Bay, you must take the ferry. It will not only get you quickly to your destination, but also give you a tour around the posh harbour view homes that line the shore.
Sydney Harbour Kayaking Adventure
Discover Sydney’s famous harbour in a new way with this kayaking experience. From the water, you can paddle past the Sydney Opera House and glide beneath the Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to admire the skyline of the city.
You’ll find tranquillity in the city with the gentle waves and seabirds flying overhead. As you explore this urban oasis, keep an eye out to see playful seals or colourful fish below the surface.
Swim With Sharks at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
Only cage-free shark diving in Sydney. Darling Harbour offers a 30-minute diving experience with a colony of grey nurse sharks.
Although the grey nurse-sharks in the aquarium range between one and three metres long, they are placid animals that do little more than look at you curiously as they pass. It is much easier to see so many sharks at once if you dive with them in an aquarium rather than the ocean.
Do not miss the colony of King and Gentoo Penguins that also calls the Aquarium home.
Visit The Sydney Jewish Museum
Sydney Jewish Museum, a beautiful and respectably curated space which humanises the past and encourages its visitors to see today with a new perspective. The Sydney Jewish Museum has a reputation for being a place that is intended only for Jewish visitors or WWII enthusiasts. The museum is a place that makes history more accessible by focusing on the Jewish experience.
Not only does it preserve important Jewish history, but also reminds us of the dangers of hatred and prejudice towards any group. This is a great trip for all the family.
Do not miss the Exhibition Reverberations – A Future For Memory. This extraordinary experience allows you to have an interactive, one-on-one conversation with Eddie Jaku, the now deceased ‘Happiest Man of Earth.’
Royal National Park Coastal Camping
Enjoy a relaxing night in the park’s oldest National Park located south of Sydney. Camp along the coastline and listen to waves breaking against the shore as you fall asleep. You can wake up and see kangaroos near grazing, and then go on a bushwalk in the morning to find hidden swimming holes and beaches.
Royal National Park is a wilderness oasis within reach of Sydney. Its diverse landscapes are home to a variety of wildlife.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a breathtaking view of Sydney and its harbour. Ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a harness and enjoy the unbeatable view of the harbour and city below.
Feel the adrenaline rush through your veins as you ascend higher. You will also feel a sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit. This once-in-a lifetime experience will take your breath from the moment you start climbing.
Discover The Japanese Flora At The Auburn Botanical Gardens
This 9.2-hectare oasis is a haven of tranquillity, with exotic plants and lush vegetation.There are themed gardens, including a Japanese Garden, with its pond, ornamental bridges, and waterfall. The Japanese Garden is followed by the Reflection pool, a scented garden and the sunken Rose garden. There’s also a native rainforest, a billabong as well as a playground with wheelchair-accessible equipment including a freedom swing.
Visit the fauna reserve or aviary to commune with Cape Barren Geese, red-necked Wallabies and peacocks. The Gardens host an annual flora event, the Cherry Blossom Festival. This takes place in August.
Ride The Ferris Wheel At Luna Park
Apart from its toothy smile and the multicoloured ferris wheel, Sydney’s oldest amusement park is easily recognisable. Luna Park is a Sydney landmark that has been dazzling and surprising fun seekers for more than 80 years. It’s still not content to rest on its laurels. The park has some vaudevillian rides, and it still features old-fashioned aesthetics. However, the park is currently undergoing major upgrades to make sure that the park fits into the 21st Century. This includes the addition of new attractions.
Although it is easy to take the ferry from Milsons Point to the Harbour Bridge, the train would be a better option. You’ll get some great photo opportunities as you near Luna Park’s Wharf.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Places To Live In Australia
The Bottom Line
Sydney offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including adventure, relaxation and exploration. This vibrant city has something to offer everyone, whether you are a nature enthusiast, adrenaline junkie or just looking to relax amidst breathtaking scenery. Pack your bags and grab your adventurous spirit to embark on a journey of a lifetime through Sydney’s outdoors paradise in 2024.