6 amazing ways to enjoy Sydney Harbour

By MiNDFOOD

Some of the best new restaurants in Sydney.
Sydney Harbour aerial with views of Royal Botanic Garden, the CBD, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
With Sydney being home to the world's most iconic harbour, no trip to the city is complete without spending time on and around the water. 

Sydney Harbour can be enjoyed by land, air or sea – here’s how to make the most of this stunning destination:

Sydney by Seaplane

One of the most spectacular ways to see Sydney Harbour is to soar over it. Sydney Seaplanes, operated out of Rose Bay, has many unique experiences available to book which will allow you to discover the city’s landmarks from the skies.

Take a scenic flight over some of Sydney’s best sights, be flown to a beautiful seaside restaurant or book one of Sydney Seaplanes’ amazing packages to celebrate a special occasion.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Kayaking in Sydney Harbour

You might have thought the harbour was reserved for boats and ferries only, but you can actually get up close and personal with the Opera House from your very own kayak.

OzPaddle Sydney, which operates out of Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, takes guided tours from Woolloomooloo to some of the harbour’s hot spots. You can paddle around past Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to take in the iconic sights of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, or you might choose to be taken to a secret beach for a special picnic.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Tall ship

There are many ways to see Sydney Harbour by boat. However taking a cruise on a Tall Ship is one of the more unique experiences on offer. 

With Sydney Harbour Tall Ships you can take a brunch, lunch or dinner cruise; embark on an afternoon discovery cruise; sample wine and canapes during an evening cruise or book a boat for a celebration.

Credit: Destination NSW

Eating and drinking

Sydney’s CBD and the surrounding suburbs have no shortage of restaurants and bars that boast stunning harbour views.

One of the most iconic spots in the city is Cafe Sydney in Circular Quay, which has uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge.

This Sydney institution still serves up some of the most fabulous food in town more than 20 years after it opened.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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On an island

There are several islands in the harbour that you can visit to see the city from a new perspective.

Cockatoo Island is accessible by ferry and has a number of accommodation options if you choose to stay the night, including a waterfront campground. Here you can explore heritage buildings, experience panoramic views and enjoy harbourside cafes and bars.

You can also visit an artificial island for an afternoon sipping cocktails. ‘The Island’ is a floating bar in the middle of Sydney Harbour that offers a European beach club vibe.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is an experience not to be missed. With the pop-up venue being situated on the water at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, you’ll take in a world-class performance against the backdrop of the beautiful Sydney skyline. Plus, there are fireworks at every performance!

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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The writer visited Sydney as a guest of Destination NSW.

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