THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY
Sydney Attractions
There are so many things to do in Sydney for a solo traveller. This vibrant city has a lot to offer. Here are some of my favourite things to do…
SURF LESSON CIRCULAR QUAY
DARLING HARBOUR SYDNEY AQUARIUM
WILD LIFE SYDNEY HUNTER VALLEY
BLUE MOUNTAINS TARONGA ZOO
1. Sydney Beaches
A beach is an easy way to spend a day if you are by yourself. Some are ideal for those who enjoy water sports and fitness, others good for snorkelling. Palm Beach is located along the Northern Beaches and you may spot the Australian Soap Opera, Home & Away, being filmed there.
2. Beach Bbq
Australia is blessed with beautiful beaches and many of them have barbecues for the public to use free of charge. They may be situated directly on the beach or on a grass area next to it. Just clean them up after you have used them so they are ready for the next person! Some of my favourite places I have been to for beach barbecues are Shelly Beach and Palm Beach.
3. Surf Lesson or Bodyboard
Manly and Bondi are well known, popular surf beaches. If you want to learn how to surf there are local companies offering group or private lessons. If you prefer to take a bodyboard out, there are flagged areas on the beaches that are manned at certain times of the day by lifeguards. These indicate the safe areas away from the dangerous rips. I can recommend booking through Manly Surf School. I had a great lesson with them and managed to catch a wave.
4. Circular Quay
Circular Quay is the main ferry wharf access places such as Darling Harbour, Manly, Taronga Zoo or Watson’s Bay. It is a hub of activity, with street performers, indigenous men playing didgeridoos, shops and restaurants. You can view the Harbour Bridge, walk around the iconic Opera house and the Botanical Gardens. The Rocks is approximately 10 minutes away by foot or a 20 minute walk will take you to the main shops and malls in George Street in the City.
5. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour has plenty of activities suitable for solo travellers. Manly Ferries offer discounts on Sundays costing only $2.70 for a round trip from Circular Quay. Darling Harbour has many shops and restaurants overlooking the water as well as tourist attractions such as Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds and Wild Life Sydney. You can also walk to the fish markets from here in around 20 minutes or visit the beautiful Chinese Garden of Friendship.
6. Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is a wonderful place to visit and see the spectacular marine life in Australia. Watching the dugong plough his way through lettuce all day is a favoured exhibit and a highlight of all those who visit. Click on the link to read my solo travel review.
7. Wild Life Sydney
If you want a short activity where you can see Australian wildlife up close then this is the place to come. Exhibits include Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, wombats and, for an extra cost, you can have your photo taken next to a koala. It is home to a butterfly exhibit that you can walk through. They will almost certainly land on you so be warned. One of the highlights here is being able to see the enormous, sleepy looking, salt water crocodile.
8. Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley wine region is a vast area that feels as if you have stepped back in time. It is hard to believe it is only a 2 hour drive from Sydney. Why not book a tour of the vineyards to take part in some wine tasting while you are here.
A hotel I recommend combining a stay at is The Pokolbin Village Resort
9. Taronga Zoo
A super zoo with harbour views. It is easily reached by road or a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. It is home to much unique Australian wildlife. A day pass booked online will set you back a little over $40 which will also include interesting keeper talks and some interactive displays. Additionally you could pay for an animal encounter to include a souvenir picture up close with one of your favourite creatures.
10. Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are approximately 2 hours drive West of Sydney. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. Oz Trails offer great day trips which include a guided tour, site seeing and a boat ride along the Parramatta River. If you prefer to stay longer, have a look at the Blue Mountains website to check the accommodation types available.
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the rainforest with cascading waterfalls, admire the flora or take a glass bottomed scenic skyway ride between clifftops. The 3 Sisters are a stunning sandstone rock formation which is well worth viewing, following a ride on the scenic railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world.