Outdoor Activities in Sydney

Doesn’t matter whether you’re a visitor or you’ve lived here your whole life, there’s heaps of stuff waiting to be discovered in Sydney’s CBD and beyond that’ll make your eyes pop.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Sydney that require a little bit of teamwork, some problem-solving, and some lighthearted fun, scavenger hunts like these are for you. 

Discover hidden gems, solve riddles, and uncover quirky stories, all while walking the streets. Perfect for friends, families, or a cheeky first date – it's a fresh take on sightseeing!

Yep, you’ve already heard of this one before but if you haven’t done it before, here’s your sign.

The ultimate way to get your adrenaline fix and get unbeatable views of the iconic skyline, the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb has got to be up there with some of the best outdoor activities in Sydney.

It’s worth saying that while the views are out of this world, you can’t bring your own camera with you, so bad luck if you’re a photographer (the staff will snap a pic of you, though). 

On the other hand, you get an incredible view of the Opera House, the harbour, and let’s be honest, it’s a rite of passage for Sydneysiders and tourists alike.

Reckon you could catch a killer? This is your way to find out.

In this outdoor escape room game, you and your team will head to The Rocks for an immersive murder mystery experience that blends Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood with some good old-fashioned sleuthing. 

You’ll explore historic alleyways, uncover clues, and crack codes to catch the killer. It’s a bit like Sherlock Holmes – if Sherlock was also hunting for the best local coffee spot (you get recommended pub, bar and cafe spots along the way!).

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Sydney that get your blood pumping, this is for you.

When I think of Sydney Harbour, I mostly see myself sipping a drink looking over at the Opera House or taking the Manly Ferry, but honestly, I was super surprised at how much fun this was.

As you might have guessed, I’m not the sportiest person in the world–but even my negligible talent on the water couldn’t dampen my spirits.

Soak in the views, paddle through the sparkling harbour water, and flex your rowing arms. Doesn’t matter if you’ve never hopped in a kayak before, the staff are great and you get safety training before you hop aboard.

The Bondi to Coogee walk hardly needs beautifying but lucky for us, this outdoor activity in Sydney is totally free and combines the fresh sea air with what you’d usually find in an art gallery.

This world-famous outdoor art event transforms the already stunning coastal views with incredible sculptures by local and international artists. The perfect blend of culture, exercise, and breathtaking views, it’s a great excuse to go beyond Sydney’s most famous beach.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Sydney when the weather starts to turn colder, I’ve got great news for you.

Between the months of May and October, Cape Solander is your go-to spot for whale watching. 

Located in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, this lookout offers prime views of majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. 

Apart from being one of my favourite places in Sydney to visit (I’d go as far to say that it’s a bit of a hidden gem, I always seem to be the only person there when I go), it’s a great spot to relax, soak in some views and yes, see some ocean giants heading for warmer waters.

Speaking of National Parks, Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, is another contender for the best place to find outdoor activities in Sydney.

It’s a hiker’s paradise with lush rainforests, coastal cliffs, and tranquil lagoons, and whether you’re after a short, scenic stroll or a full-day adventure, there’s a trail to suit everyone.

If it’s too hot to justify a full-on hike (and, if you’re new to Sydney or Australia, then please, please, please consider your safety, water and sunscreen are non-negotiables), then this is a great alternative. 

The walk to Hornby Lighthouse at Watsons Bay offers stunning views, a chance to really stretch your legs–it’s quite steep in places–and the lighthouse itself is like something out of a storybook. 

The iconic red-and-white lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1858 and is a perfect spot to soak in the scenery and Sydney’s maritime history, and give yourself a pat on the back for putting the hard yards in to get there.

After all that walking, you might be looking for outdoor activities in Sydney that are a little more…sedate. 

That being the case, the Westpac Open Air Cinema is a highlight of summer for me and I’d really recommend it to anybody who loves going to the movies and making the most of summer nights.

Watch the latest blockbusters or beloved classics while the Opera House and Harbour Bridge create the ultimate backdrop, grab your popcorn and get ready for a movie night like no other – it’s cinema under the stars!

Oh, and remember to pack a rain jacket or a poncho. A few years ago it absolutely chucked it down and Mary Queen of Scots got a little too atmospheric, if you know what I mean. Disaster, but lesson learnt!

I’m no Tiger Woods but something about mini-golf makes my brain tell me I should be performing to his standard.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Sydney you can do with your family or a bunch of your mates, get swinging. 

A quick glance at Google will show you that most of Sydney’s putt putt courses are indoor but there are places with great courses further afield (like City Golf). But remember, if you want to give actual golf a try–you’re spoiled for choice.

Living so close to some of the world’s best beaches makes us truly spoiled, but to be honest, the ocean rips and dangers of the sea should be more widely spoken about. 

Luckily, there are heaps of alternatives that are safer and easier to access. 

If you want some recommendations, I’d advise you to take a dip at the picturesque Maccallum Seawater Pool on the harbour, do some laps at the historic North Sydney Olympic Pool, or relax with friends at Leichhardt Pool.

Funny story: I visited Q Station for the first time about two weeks into January of 2019, and I had no idea that “quarantine” would become the word of the year.

Weird coincidences aside, Q Station is such an interesting place to visit and it’s perfect if you’re into finding out more about the spookier side of Sydney. 

Q Station is Sydney’s former quarantine station turned museum and ghost tour hotspot. You’ll learn about Sydney’s colonial past, explore historic buildings, and maybe even encounter something from the other side (check out these tags left by kids last time I visited. Scary as!).

I take the RiverCat a lot and one day, my partner and I decided to become tourists for the day and check this place out: and you should too.

Cockatoo Island is one of Sydney Harbour’s most fascinating spots, with its convict history and industrial past. 

Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s perfect for a day trip. Explore old shipyards, eerie tunnels, and abandoned prisons, or stay overnight for a bit of glamping with a harbour view.

So cemeteries might not strike you as the first place to go walking about voluntarily, but let me tell you, they’re more than just resting places – they’re also steeped in history.

Stroll through Gore Hill or Waverley Cemetery and discover the stories of Sydney’s past, with impressive monuments, cryptic gravestones, and even views of the coast. 

It’s a peaceful yet intriguing way to connect with the city’s heritage, and they’re both in nice locations for exploring afterwards.

Looking for easy outdoor activities in Sydney? Get out of the city and cruise along Sydney’s stunning Northern Beaches. 

From Whale to Palm Beach, this scenic drive takes you past golden sands, crashing waves, and laid-back beach towns. 

Obviously, you’re in your car for a lot of it but make a point to stop off at as many places that catch your eye as possible. I brought a polaroid camera along with me last time we did this, as well as a picnic and it was absolutely incredible.

If you really need a break from the city hustle, head to The Blue Mountains.

Just a short drive from Sydney, The Blue Mountains offer a breath of fresh air and spectacular scenery. There’s some great walking trails, the Zig Zag railway, cute bakeries, and some really fascinating Aboriginal lore to explore. 

Whether you’re hiking, taking in the view from Echo Point, or exploring Jenolan Caves, it’s the ideal escape when you need some time to reconnect with nature.