Getting tired of Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo and Luna Park? Rather than ticking off the boxes for the ‘usual suspects’, let’s have a look at a few lesser-known activities in the capital of Australia. There are so many cool things to do in Sydney that are off the beaten track!
Dubbed ‘The Harbour City’, Sydney is an amazing place to visit with the family. It can be challenging to get your teenagers off their electronic devices, but Sydney has got so much to offer that they’ll gladly give in.
1. Walk around Cremorne and Mosman
Slip, slop, slap, as they say in Australia! Slip on a shirt, slop on some sun cream and slap on a hat. You’ll need all this when you’re venturing out on the lovely harbour walks around Cremorne Point and Mosman. If you’re staying in the city, simply take the ferry from Circular Quay across the harbour to Cremorne Point. The view to the city with the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge is spectacular and highly Instagrammable. Download and print a map of Cremorne Point to Mosman Wharf to take along with you!
2. Explore Watsons Bay
Formerly known as Kutti-kutti, Watsons Bay has some amazing restaurants, and is a great starting point for coastal walks to Gap Bluff and Hornby Lighthouse. Need food for hungry teenagers? Try the Watsons Bay Hotel, the historic Dunbar House for high tea, or fish and chips from Doyles on the Beach.
3. Marvel at the Southern night sky at the Sydney Observatory
Located on a hill in Millers Point in The Rocks and overlooking Sydney’s harbour, the Sydney Observatory tours are suitable for kids six years and above. Climbing the building’s narrow staircases, you’ll step inside the Sydney Observatory’s domes to see historic and modern telescopes in action.
4. Get high on adrenaline in a Thunder Jet Boat
Screaming out in terror while riding harbour waves on a bright yellow boat is not my idea of fun. Our teenagers thought it was amazing though! Make sure the kids hand you their phones, hats, and glasses, as the risk of losing them is high. Get your tickets here.
5. Shiver at a Ghost Tour
Learn all about Mad Sally, convict Ann Walker and The Hairy Man while you walk around the old Rocks. This was the place where the first pioneers settled. Many of them were convicts who were sent to Australia as punishment for crimes they’d committed in the old world.
6. Visit the Sydney Fish Market
A fun and bustling place to walk around and admire the abundance of seafood. Simply choose your food at one of the many stalls, buy some drinks and eat it outside at the heaving tables. Get there for an early lunch as it can get very crowded. If you’re driving, parking is available on site.
7. Glamp it at Cockatoo Island
Located just west of the famous bridge, this small island was a place where convicts used to roam, and ships were built. Nowadays it’s a great spot to book glamping tents, join tours or visit the cocktail bar. Mocktails available!
More for teens in Sydney
Great events that teenagers will highly enjoy
- The Floating Cinema in Darling Harbour. Runs from December to February, 5 nights a week.
- The annual Vivid Sydney event in May and June. More info here.
- New Year’s Eve fireworks, with a spectacular display at 9pm and midnight.
Restaurants which get the thumbs up from teenagers
- Doyles on Watsons Bay for a meal with an incredible view.
- Mr. Wong at George Street is a great place for an Asian meal.
- Kid Kyoto is located opposite Mr. Wong. The kids will love it for both the uber-fancy dishes and the loud music. Who wants to talk to parents after a long day out in Sydney!?
- Café Sydney at Circular Quay is a must-go for those who like to overlook the harbour.
- Ripples Chowder Bay for lazy afternoon lunches.
- Sydney Fish Market for casual fish and chips or cooked crab claws.
Tips for a great holiday in Sydney
- Make reservations ahead since rental cars, hotels, restaurants, and events are often booked out, especially during school holidays.
- December, January and February can be boiling hot. March and April are pleasant, as well as September and October. June and July can be cold, windy and wet.
- While Sydney is geographically dispositioned for public transport, the ferry system is marvelous! Have a look here for the ferry timetable.
- Get an OPAL card or simply use your credit card for the public transport system.
- Practice your “G’day mate”, combined with a big smile – it will get you everywhere!
Perth is another great city for walks. Read our Perth article for tips!
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