5 things to do during winter in Sydney

Jul 01 2019

There is plenty to do in Sydney, no matter the season.

Here are 5 great ways to spend your time in Sydney during those colder months.

1. Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney—the annual festival of light, music and ideas—illuminates the city every winter. This is the largest celebration of its kind in the world and an absolute must for anyone that appreciates creativity and color.

Have dinner at Darling Harbor and enjoy the fantastic water show on display. Take the ferry from the Harbor to Circular Quay to get a glimpse of the Sydney Bridge in all its glory, then make your way to the Opera House to admire the colorful projections. Do yourself a favor and brave the cold for this one, it’s worth it!

2. Whale Watching

During the cooler months, Sydney is one of the best places to see whales migrating north. Venture out any time between May and September and you have a very good possibility of spotting the pods of humpbacks and southern right whales, splashing their way up the coastline and putting on a magnificent show.

The whales can easily be seen from the shores of most local beaches. If you’re looking for an up close and personal experience, there are plenty of whale watching boat tours available. Be sure to bring a jacket, it will be extra cold on the water!

3. Bondi Winter Magic

Each winter, Bondi Beach transforms into a family-friendly winter wonderland for an event that everyone can enjoy: Bondi Winter Magic. Slip on your ice skates and enjoy Australia’s only beachside ice rink, or take a whirl on the newly opened Bondi Eye, a 32-meter ferris wheel that offers a stunning 360 degree view of Sydney. Now is the time to visit, as this festival only runs from the end of June to the end of July.

4. Bondi to Coogee Walk

The Instagram-worthy views along the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk are well worth the cool breeze. This 6km path wraps around the cost at the edge of Sydney’s eastern suburbs. You’ll explore rock pools, beaches and parks along your journey—not to mention the stunning houses that dot the coastline. Once you arrive at Coogee beach, take a stroll down the main road and pick one of the many cozy cafes to grab a coffee or meal.

5. Scenic Helicopter Tour

Seeing Sydney from above is an amazing experience in any weather—but perhaps even more enjoyable when there’s an extra chill in the air. Sydney Helitours offers everything from scenic tours to day trips and even adventure aerial filming. It’s the experience of a lifetime that you won’t soon forget.