THE 10 BEST Parks & Nature Attractions in Sydney
Nature & Parks in Sydney
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165 places sorted by traveler favorites
Top-Rated Outdoor Activities (142)
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Beaches
Bondi Beach
Zoos
Darling Harbour
Admission tickets from $24.92
Geologic Formations
Central Business District
Beaches
Coogee
Gardens
Inner East
National Parks • Hiking Trails
Darling Harbour
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What travelers are saying
- LANDY31Brisbane, Australia423 contributionsYou could noting better than to ride around the harbor. So many sites and by catching the ferries, it is very inexpensive yet you get million dolar viewsWritten May 26, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Ashfield531Ringwood, UK1,026 contributionsSuperb location with the city behind and the harbour in front and adjoining the Opera House.
There are abundant peaceful walks available and wonderful planting.Written April 28, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Manickjg1,415 contributionsManly has a very homey feel. As soon as you get off the ferry and head down the Corso, there is an anticipation that you will soon see the wide expanse of ocean at the end. The sight never disappoints and is always breathtaking. We keep coming back here and enjoy walking along the beachfront. You can walk all the way to Shelly Beach on one end or else walk all the way up to Queenscliff on the other end. A very special place no matter what time of the day or what season of the year.Written May 15, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- madh0ffCairns Region, Australia149 contributionsI've been a huge fan of the TV sho 'Bondi Rescue' for years & always wanted to visit the famous Bondi Beach. I couldn't believe how magical it is in real life. It was even more enjoyable as we visited on a weekday & there were very few people on the beach. I was able to get photos of some of the most famous scenes from the show, but I wasn't able to get a photo with one of the lifeguards. I will definately be coming back, hopefully when its a little warmer so I can swim in the ocean & possibly dine at Icebergs restaurant.Written May 27, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Michelle W107 contributionsThis is a lovely walk; the scenery along the way is beautiful. We walked from the Spit Bridge end and the first part is definitely the hardest with lots of steps up and down but after about the first 4km or so it’s no where near as bad, with only a few ups and downs. We did it in walking boots but plenty of people were in trainers. It took us just under 3 hours and we are not fast walkers!Written April 12, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Mo CHouston, TX10 contributionsCoogee Beach is the beautiful little sister to Bondi Beach and is well worth a visit. Take some time to do the coastal walk between Coogee and Bondi.It's a little less "fancy" than Bondi.Written March 23, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ITRTVirginia38,539 contributionsSEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is home to the world’s largest collection of Australian sea life. Be prepared to walk up and down many ramps to see sharks, stingrays, turtles and much more. This system allows you to see some of the exhibits from above as well as below. In one area, we were able to catch a glimpse of a baby sea horse. One of my favorites was taking the short boat ride to see the Emperor Penguins. I thought it was fascinating to watch the Smooth Stingrays swimming above your head, hoping the glass ceiling does not break. There is an area where children are allowed to touch and hold some marine life. The downside is that the narrow passages impact what you can see when it is extremely crowded.Written March 14, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- HotairballoonParis, France48 contributionsJust go a bit later in the day, as there are lots of tourists taking photos. I wanted to read the plaque, however people were too busy leaning and posing, so I waited, not a problem, just go after the rushWritten May 5, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ITRTVirginia38,539 contributionsThe Wild Life Sydney Zoo is located in Darling Harbor in the same complex as the Sea Life Aquarium and Madame Tussauds. The zoo is on the small side, but it does showcase animals that are native to Australia such as koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and platypus. The saltwater crocodile exhibit was under renovation. For additional cost, you can have your photo taken with one of the cute koalas, but you are not allowed to hold one. Follow the walkway to see the various habitats and different species of animals. The saltwater crocodile exhibit was under renovation when we visited. Other exhibits include frogs, snakes, pythons, and various lizards. Daily keeper talks are held at different locations and times throughout the zoo. Check the schedule when you arrive if interested in any of the talks.Written March 14, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Mark HIrvine, CA164 contributionsGood view of the Chair and of the Harbour. The steps are uneven and worn, so be careful climbing. Make room for others and enjoy the view of Navy shipsWritten April 22, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jeffry bEssendon, Australia12,844 contributionsCentennial Park has a treasured place in Australia's history. Centennial Park commemorates the foundation of Australia in 1788; the park was opened in January 1888. Centennial Park was the inspiration for the formation of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. Centennial Park is the largest urban park in Australia, it's a marvelous place for a walk or a run, and it's right in the center of Australia's largest city.Written February 4, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- OldjackGreater Melbourne, Australia27,413 contributionsThe cliffs are spectacular with a grizzly history but worth a visit to The Gap, South Head and Watsons Bay. There is room for improvementto the fencing and the way it is all poresented as the somewhat temporary fencing looks dated and tacky and the signage to walk the cliffs to South Head is poor.Written July 3, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Kwendy S1 contributionMy brother and I took the Aboriginal Cultural Tour with Sam. We had an outstanding experience. We learnt so much about Barangaroo herself, the area and about Aboriginal culture, all brought to life by Sam's knowledge and passion. The reserve is beautiful, easy to stroll around and is very peaceful. I would 100% recommend this tour, we are so lucky to be able to learn about the world's oldest living cultureWritten February 9, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- joiHonolulu, HI3 contributionsThe best place for snorkeling. Various fish. You can see the blue grouper.
I will visit again during my trip to Sydney. Fun memories.Written February 26, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Mairwen1United Kingdom8,650 contributionsOn its own, Nielsen Park would be a pleasant, although unremarkable spot. What makes it a really special spot is that it sits alongside Shark Beach, a very popular family harbour beach. Together the beach and park make this a perfect area for families and large groups to gather.
The park is a great space if you want to escape the sun, kick a ball or have a picnic.
Like most Australian beaches, theres no natural shade on the sand, so being able to retreat to the shade under the sprawling fig trees means that you can plan an extended stay at the beach.
The park is part of the Sydney Harbour National Park and consists of a large expanse of open, grassy area, covering 20 hectares. There is an avenue of giant, fig trees and large, mature gums are scattered throughout, providing lots of shade.
There are good facilities nearby, including clean toilets, changing rooms, outdoor showers and an historic kiosk on the beachfront that sells coffee, ice-creams and fish and chips.
For those who want to explore, the Hermitage Foreshore Walking Trail (1.8km one way) starts here.
There are also 3 short & easy, looped walking paths. Maps of the walks are shown on a large National Parks board near the Greycliffe Avenue entrance:
Glass & Bottle Point Walk (500m loop, 20 min)
Historic Greycliffe House Walk (500m loop, 30 min)
Mount Trefle Walk (500m loop, 20 min)
GETTING THERE: You’ll find free, un-timed parking along Vaucluse and Greycliffe Av. You can pretty reliably get a park mid-week and on overcast days but on a sunny weekend, it can get impossibly busy. Entry to the National Park is free.Written January 10, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sydney
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