THE 10 BEST Sydney Parks & Nature Attractions
Nature & Parks in Sydney
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Nature & Parks
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Travelers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travelers across the globe.
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226 places sorted by traveler favorites
- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
Recommended Outdoor Activities (188)
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Aquariums
Central Business District
Admission tickets from $28
Zoos
Central Business District
Admission tickets from $26
Geologic Formations
Central Business District
National Parks • Hiking Trails
Central Business District
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What travelers are saying
- Nick GBathurst, Australia335 contributionsDo like Manly beach and experience. Lots to do nearby and several options to get here including ferry and buses. A better trip than Bondi with less of a crowd.Written September 28, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AnsonAustralia5 contributionsA famous tourist destination. The ferry ride gives a good view of Bridge as well as Sydney Opera House. The buildings along the beach also give beautiful views.Written August 31, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Liisa and Dave BAdelaide, Australia4,240 contributionsBotanic Gardens Sydney is a must-visit oasis in the heart of the city. Nestled along the waterfront, the gardens offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and serene walking paths, making it a fantastic escape from the hustle and bustle. The well-maintained landscapes showcase an incredible variety of native and exotic plants, and each season brings new life and colors to explore.
Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, can be seen from various points throughout the garden. There’s also a lot to learn here, with informative signs detailing the history and characteristics of the plants and wildlife.
The Calyx is a standout attraction within the gardens, often hosting beautiful floral displays and exhibitions. Whether you want to stroll leisurely, have a picnic, or learn about botany, the Botanic Gardens cater to everyone. It’s a peaceful, lush haven that offers a refreshing break, with plenty of spots to sit, relax, and soak in the atmosphere. Highly recommended for nature lovers, families, and anyone visiting Sydney!Written September 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Aviation CentralSydney, Australia77 contributionsVery good experience, lots of sand to play with :). There were loads of sunbathers, so snag a spot earlier in the day if you like it. We enjoyed shopping in one of the coastal shopping villages; so awesome! Definitely coming again.Written October 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Timothy K.Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia406 contributionsVisiting the Chinese Garden of Friendship was an unforgettable experience! From the moment you step through the entrance, you're transported to a serene oasis that feels worlds away from the bustling city outside. The meticulously designed gardens are a testament to the beauty and tranquility of Chinese landscaping traditions.
Every corner offers a new visual delight—whether it’s the stunning koi-filled ponds, the intricately carved pavilions, or the lush, well-maintained flora. The peaceful ambiance is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a reflective pause by the water.
For anyone seeking a moment of calm and a touch of cultural enrichment, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is a must-visit. It’s a gem that beautifully showcases the harmony and elegance of Chinese garden design. Highly recommended!Written August 28, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - MsTracy1979Sydney, Australia109 contributionsA friend and I decided to go on impulse after a work lunch. It was her choice and I wasn't sure, although I remembered enjoying the underwater tunnel when I was in high school. It was really good and I'd recommend a visit even if you don't have children with you. It's a deceptively large venue so leave at least an hour but we took about 90min. We ended up spending a fair amount of time around the main tank watching the fish and dugong. It was super relaxing and my Fitbit thanked me for the visit.Written August 24, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- jacquitohcAuckland Central, New Zealand1,456 contributionsWild LIFE; good selection of wildlife (especially kangaroos) I wouldn't expect, at Darling Harbour. Busy but interesting; dusty trail to see kangaroos; tiptoed past Tassie Devil (manic 'whooosh'-tornado in cartoon- memory), sleeping koalas; cassowary (related to kiwibird) – very cool. Limited time, perfect, close to everything, pretty special. (I have gait/walking challenges (stroke), wear a legbrace.)Written April 24, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Lizi-BeeGlasgow, UK17 contributions1 of the best beaches Ive visited. Has plenty of clean working amenities - toilets, showers, drinking water. Life guards on patrol every day. Free sea pool for swimming at Coogee Lifesavers, & for a few dollars Wylies baths well worth a visit. There’s also McIvers pool which is great for swimming in but for women & children only. Plenty of seats at beach front - & coffee shops, restaurants & places to get a nice cold drink after a lovely walk along the boatdwalk. Definitely 1 of the best.Written August 9, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- SeeTheW0rld62Sunnyvale, CA2,268 contributionsWe walked through Hyde Park on our way to the Anzac Memorial. The fountain is wonderful and we enjoyed the serenity and shade.Written September 23, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Fiona CCounty Kildare, Ireland24 contributionsI spent 2 weeks in Sydney earlier this year with my Mum. I loved getting the tram to Centennial Park from Randwick as it was a very short journey - only about 3 stops. It's a massive park and filled with lots of interesting plants, trees and birds. Plenty of space to roam around and lots of places to sit in the shade when the heat gets too much. I'd recommend stopping at the Spruce Goose for a bite to eat - I'd especially recommend getting their chips with chicken salt - very tasty!Written September 15, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- tammyBaltimore_MdBaltimore, MD4,052 contributionsDirectly across the Harbor from Opera house with perfect views, sits this sort of chair dating back from the 1800's where Mrs Macquarie sat & watched the boats come in.
Part of the Botanical Gardens definitely worth the 20 minute walk around from the Opera House to check out, nice photo op.Written April 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - EndlessTravelsGreater Melbourne, Australia38,707 contributionsSo easy to get to and absolutely spectacular views.
Transport: best way is to get the ferry to Watsons Bay., than a short walk to bus stop past playground. Or u can take the bus which stops right at steps. U can also take bus to bondi from here.Written February 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Sarah WSydney, Australia1 contributionI don't understand the bad reviews of this beach. Sure some days there are better than others, but usually its a good crowd. In summer it's almost 50/50 male/female, especially in the afternoons. And what's lovely is that you meet lots of tourists who take their first skinny dip ever at Lady Bay. I've met people from the US, Brazil, France, Italy, Greece, China, Taiwan, Singapore and many other places. So just go with the flow and enjoy. You won't regret it.Written June 17, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Mairwen1United Kingdom11,299 contributionsBarangaroo is a large, 6 hectare open parkland that runs along the foreshore of Sydney Harbour.
The best thing to do here is the Barangaroo Foreshore Walk. Starting from the Wharf Bay area, it follows the coastline, linking up with Darling Harbour. I just love this walk especially on a sunny blue-sky day, when the water sparkles.
The walking paths are wide enough to accommodate pedestrians, runners and cyclists. It’s a very easy stroll along flat paths. The paths are paved in some stretches and gravelly in others, making it suitable for pushchairs. Small kids can safely ride their little bikes and scooters here also.
When we walked this path recently, a seal swam beside us, following us most of the way. Very special.
The main natural features at Barangaroo Reserve include the new Marrinawi Cove swimming enclosure, Stargazer Lawn and The Cutaway, a cavernous exhibition space cut out of the sandstone cliff (currently closed while it’s being redeveloped).
As you get closer to King St Wharf, you will see the controversial but striking Crown Casino building. A whole string of waterside restaurants and bars run along here and you are spoilt for choice.
TIP:
An excellent way to get something extra out of Barangaroo Reserve is to book the Aboriginal Cultural Tour. I’d highly recommend it. I did it some years ago and still remember it. Perhaps the most interesting part was being shown all the different ways the native plants were used. Some were rich sources of food, but others had unexpected uses like being able to stun fish or make soap. We gained a wonderful insight into indigenous food, culture, and history.Written August 10, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - leuveenUnited Kingdom1,311 contributionsNarrow beach, great for snorkeling and observing fish. Has lots of seaweed but is a very beautiful place so don't let that part stop you from visiting.Written February 22, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
