Sydney Harbour Sightseeing – 5 ways locals can enjoy the harbour

Growing up in Sydney, I never thought I would leave – what place could beat the beauty of it’s harbour side?! It turns out God had different plans for me and I’ve lived in two other states since, although none have ever had an attraction that is comparable to Sydney’s Harbour. Many Sydney-siders don’t venture into the city to enjoy the harbour for a day, so I want to share with you some new ways locals can enjoy Sydney Harbour sightseeing without feeling like a tourist.

This post is sponsored by UCruise

Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout and Bridge Walk

Walking across the bridge (rather than over the bridge) is absolutely free! Although if you’re wanting the view that is second best to the high bridge climb you should make your way up the 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout, which is 87 metres about mean sea level. As you conquer the stairs, there are three levels of exhibits where you can learn about the construction of the bridge and the men who built it. It’s really interesting – even for the kids!

Above images via

Opening times: 7 days, 10am – 5pm (last entry 4.45pm) – closed Christmas day.

ADMISSION:
General Admission (13 years and over) $13.00
Concession (Seniors & Student) $8.50
Children (5 to 12 years, inclusive) $6.50
Children (4 years and under) FREE

Hire a Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board

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Sydney Harbour Kayaks is located at Mosman and has a large ranges of quality single and double kayaks, surf skis and stand up paddle boards (SUP). Prices start from $20 per hour.

Cruise the harbour in style

If you’re not the type that likes to travel with a chance of ending up ‘in the harbour’, why not travel on the harbour in style? Ucruise are a luxury cruise company that offers private boat hire for a variety of events. Known best for their awesome hens cruise experiences, Ucruise are one of the top rated private cruise companies on Trip Advisor.

Visit Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island is the biggest of the Sydney Islands and has plenty offer – including million dollar views! Play tennis, pack a picnic and utilise the free BBQs and picnic areas or eat at the Societe Overboard cafe (pictured below) for breakfast or lunch. There’s plenty of old industrial areas to explore – which makes cockatoo island a great place for a photography expedition too. Find info about other Sydney Islands here.

Vivid Sydney

The annual Vivid Sydney, a light, music and ideas festival is on 27 May -18 June, 2016. Enjoy dinner with a colourful view, attend an event or just walk around the light show – there’s something for everyone. For the full program see here, all images below via.

I would love you to help me grow this list, where else do you enjoy to go around Sydney’s Harbour? Comment below!