When the sun comes out in Sydney, it’s like a whole different city.
Locals and visitors alike head out to make the most of the world-class scenery and attractions that glitter across the city. From the spectacular Sydney Harbour to the countless parks and outdoor spaces, iconic attractions, endless events, and exceptional dining scene, there’s enough to see and do to fill an entire summer in Sydney with incredible memories.
So if you’re looking for things to do in Sydney in summer, here’s our recommendations for how to make it unforgettable.
Enjoy a picnic dinner at Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches for its pale sands, blue waters, and jaw-dropping sunsets. That’s why taking a picnic dinner to Bondi Beach with a blanket and a few friends is the perfect recipe for a relaxed summer evening you’ll never forget.
Either pick up a few pizzas nearby or bring a traditional selection of breads, deli meats, cheeses, fruits, and treats from the supermarket for a simple picnic dinner. Don’t forget your swimwear for a dip in the water, and a Bluetooth speaker to set the scene.
Before the sun sets, walk over to Mapo Bondi for a cup of the best gelato in town, then head back to the beach to enjoy your dessert as the sun goes down and puts on a beautiful natural lightshow over the bay.
Attend the Sydney Festival
The Sydney Festival arrives in the city on January 5 and runs until January 29. It would hardly be summer without this annual event, which features a wide variety of performances, from dance to theatre to cabaret, as well as art installations both indoors and out, family events, circus shows, and more.
Some events are free and some are paid, they are located all across the city, and there’s such a variety of things to see that there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s best to book and plan early, as events are limited and tickets sell out quickly. So take a look at the shows and attractions on offer now, gather together a few friends, and spend your January enjoying some of the best local and international performances the city has to offer.
Hire a boat for a day on the water with friends
The summer season in Sydney is all about enjoying the water, and one of the best ways to celebrate the sunshine is to spend a day on your own private boat with friends.
There are a few options around the harbour for private boat hire, including some such as Satly Boat Hire where you drive your own boat. This will give you unparalleled access to the harbour and all its beauty as you cruise around enjoying the sunshine and sights.
Bring some snacks, plenty of sunscreen and your cameras for a flawless and unforgettable day on the water.
Spend a Saturday at the Glebe Markets
The Glebe Markets are as much an important part of Sydney as the Opera House. These iconic, historic markets in Glebe open just once per week on a Saturday. Even if Sydney weather decides to rain or be stormy, the stalls will still open.
Here you can lose yourself amongst the stalls, exploring vintage clothing, beautiful handmade arts and crafts, jewellery, new and second-hand clothes, homewares, and so many more treasures. You can enjoy a meal from one stall, or pick up bites and nibbles from multiple stalls as you peruse so you can try a little of everything.
Each week, the markets also feature live music, so you can truly make a day of it with friends as you catch up, enjoy delicious food, and support local creators as you treat yourself to something new for your home or wardrobe.
Watch a movie at the Moonlight Cinema
One of the most classic things to do in Sydney in summer is head to the Moonlight Cinema.
Held in Centennial Park over the summer months, the Moonlight Cinema features a fantastic mix of top new releases, old favourites, family-friendly flicks, and festive films in the lead-up to Christmas.
Simply pick the film you want to see, grab your tickets online, and head along with a picnic blanket, food and drinks, and enjoy the show on the big screen. The warm and balmy evenings with the magic of watching a great movie in the great outdoors combines to create an amazing night out with friends or family.
You can also pay extra for the best seats in the house (bean bag beds near the front), wait service, ice creams, and more.
Plus, the films usually start a little later when it gets dark, so you can enjoy a meal before the movie for a fun summery twist on a classic ‘dinner and movie’ night.
Take in the harbour with a fine dining meal at a waterfront restaurant
It’s one thing to sit by the water and watch the boats and people come and go. It’s something truly special to enjoy the same view at a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy fine dining at its best.
That’s exactly the experience you’ll discover at 6HEAD.
This modern Australian restaurant offers delectable dining, including fresh seafood, premium steaks, and thoughtful vegetarian dishes. We are most well-known for our in-house dry aged steak programme, our Mayura Station grain-fed Wagyu steaks, and our sensational seafood.
These meals are joined by a full range of internationally renowned wine labels, and a well-stocked bar with a creative cocktail list so you can truly indulge in the joys of a hot summer’s day, a cold drink, and a postcard-perfect view of Sydney Harbour.
Make your reservation online today to secure a prime position overlooking the harbour at our waterfront restaurant this summer.
