Sydney, New South Wales
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for new adventures, Sydney offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top 8 things to do that will help you experience the very best of Australia’s most iconic city. Get ready to dive into Sydney’s unique charm and create unforgettable memories along the way!
Where is Sydney?
Sydney is the capitial of New South Wales on the South-East coastline, and is the second largest city in Australia home to approximately 5.5 million people. The vibrant, cosmopolitan city is known for its stunning harbour, iconic landmarks, beaches, culture, landscapes, and outdoors lifestyle.
1.
Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The Sydney Opera House is at the central of the city’s skyline, with its sail-like design, it is a tourists favourite. The iconic architecture is located in the centre of the harbour, designed by Danish Architect Jørn Utzon, and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973.
2.
Bondi to Bronte Walk
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Australia and the world. Renowned for its turquoise waters, surf, and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is approximately 1 km, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists. There is a boarded walk way along the coast from Bondi to Bronte which is a beach further down the coast. The walk starts at Icebergs swimming pool. The scenic walk is approximately 2.5km either way.
3.
Manly
Manly is a vibrant coastal town of Sydney, located in the Northern Beaches. Manly is home to a range of sandy beaches, diverse cafes and restaurants, and board walks. Manly is accessible by ferry and car, easiest by ferry from Circular Quay, or next to the Opera House. The ferry takes 20-30 minutes, and stops at the Wharf, a few minutes walk from the Corso which is the main high street of Manly. There is a well known walk to the view point at North Head, and from Manly beach to Shelley Beach, which is one of the main snorkel spots (review below).
CHECK OUT OUR MANLY SNORKEL REVIEW BELOW:
4.
Harbour Bridge Walk
Sydney’s Harbour bridge is one of the most iconic bridge’s in the world, notable for being part of Sydney’s New Year’s firework display. The bridge which connects the Northern Sydney is accessible by stairs and an elevator to a walkway which runs from either side. The walk provides stunning views of the city, Harbour waters, and the Opera House. The walk takes about 40 minutes to walk across, there is a return ferry service from Kirribilli back to circular quay.
5.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is a picturesque peninsula located at the top of the Northern Beaches of Sydney. The seaside town has golden beaches that run along either side, and a star case walk up to the lighthouse, offering a spectacular and iconic view over the spit. The walk takes about 40 minute up and 30 minutes down. There are cafe’s and plenty of parking, there is also a return bus service from Manly to Palm Beach taking an hour.
6.
Watsons Bay & Rose Bay
Watson’s Bay is a picturesque coastal town in the suburbs of Sydney. The Bay’s beach offers a stunning scenic view of the Sydney city skyline. The Bay faces West of the city, providing the opportunity for spectacular sunsets. The Bay is accessible by car, and ferry from Circular Quay (Opera House).
7.
Blue Mountains
The Blue mountains is a region of natural beauty, located inland and west from Sydney, NSW. The Blue Mountains has rich aboriginal heritage, and is named after the blue haze created by the thousands of Eucalyptus trees. The mountainous landscape is home to waterfalls, Gorges, bushwalk trails, and the three sisters viewpoint. The national park is accessible by train and car from Sydney.
8.
Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley is a wine region two hours drive North from Sydney. It is one of the oldest and famous wine producing region of Australia. The region offers retreats to visit and view the serene landscape and vineyards, wine tasting, and music concerts.
New South Wales Snorkel Reviews
Snorkeling Shelly Beach and Cabbage Tree Bay at Manly, Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
The local currency is Australia Dollar (AU). AUD $1.00 equals approximately 0.64 USD.
The summer months of December to February are a good time to visit NSW.
In my opinion, the best snorkel spot in Sydney is Cabbage Tree Bay, in Manly. However I haven’t snorkelled all of the popular locations yet, so I can’t compare.
I thin the transport links are very good in Sydney, with a train system, tram line in the city centre, road network through the city with bridges and tunnels, and frequent ferry service.
There are a number of Turtle species in the Indian Ocean, including the Green and Hawksbill turtle. From my experience I think it is unlikely to see Sea Turtles off Phuket and surrounding islands, but not to say you can’t. If you’re going to see turtles, the Similan Islands or Surin I think would be the most likely.
New South Wales Snorkel Reviews
