This Popular Australian Tourist Destination Is A Great Spot For A Warm-Weather Winter Vacation
Escaping the cold winter months always sounds like a great idea, right? After all, no one likes the feeling of being stuffed into coats, scarves, and jackets — only to have to remove them every time you step inside somewhere. And sure, snow is fun, and waking up to a winter wonderland can feel magical, but let's be honest: the novelty wears off very quickly once you're stuck shoveling your driveway for the third time that week.
Luckily, for travelers looking to soak up some sun year-round, Sydney, Australia, has you covered. Because while countries in the northern hemisphere turn into a shivery icebox near the end of the year, summertime in Sydney — and in the southern hemisphere in general — is just getting started.
So whether you're looking to relax on the beach, enjoy some outdoor dining, hit up cultural hotspots, or simply take a quiet evening stroll sans puffer jacket and hat in tow, Sydney is brimming with activities that'll have you embracing warmer, sunnier days.
Getting outside in Sydney
The bustling capital of New South Wales attracts millions of visitors each year looking to stay and unwind in the city. Its allure? A combination of urban sophistication and natural wonder makes this the perfect destination for a touch of relaxation and a dash of adventure under the sun. First, there are the city's spectacular beaches. While Bondi Beach might be Sydney's most popular haven for sun-chasers, other spots like Bronte Beach, Manly, and Gordons Bay also offer a slice of coastal paradise.
Beyond its sandy shores, the city's Royal Botanic Garden has tours and events available for visitors to enjoy pretty much every day of the week. Their Aboriginal Bush Tucker tour — which takes place Thursday to Saturday, and is priced at about $13 for children and $19 for adults — takes visitors on a tour through the gardens led by a First Nations guide who will teach you about Indigenous food, plants, and culture.
For the more adventurous, adrenaline-loving traveler, there's also the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. Clipped into a safety harness, most climbs take 2.5 to 3.5 hours and require moderate fitness. As you climb to the top, you'll see breathtaking views of the harbor, the Sydney Opera House, and the city skyline. The experience offers four types of climbs to choose from, with ticket prices ranging from $95 to $133 for children, and $218 to $262 for adults.
Other tips for visiting Sydney
However, Sydney's got a lot more going for it than just great outdoor activities. Great food, for example, is everywhere — and it's no surprise that food lovers visiting Sydney are in for a big treat. For one, Campbell's Stores is a great spot to grab a bite and enjoy expertly curated menus that range from steakhouses to traditional Greek cuisine, Asian fusion, and Japanese specialties. And the best part? You get to enjoy delicious food while overlooking the Sydney Harbour — now that's a win-win!
From there, why not catch a show at the Sydney Opera House, too? Operating since 1973, this architectural masterpiece has made the World Heritage list and welcomes nearly 11 million visitors a year. It hosts different types of performances — from musical theater to contemporary music, dance troupes, speaker-series talks, and kid-friendly shows. And even if live shows aren't your thing, taking a stroll around the iconic building can be lovely on a summer evening.
Lastly, when it comes to visiting Sydney from the USA, there's an unavoidable truth: it's a long ride to get there. From New York, you're looking at about 22+ hours in the air — typically with a layover. Meanwhile, from Los Angeles, it's around 16 hours, and you can find nonstop flights through American Airlines, United, and Delta. Sure, this might sound long, but once you're soaking up some rays in Sydney, you'll quickly realize it's totally worth the trip.