You can’t escape the smell of Sydney’s harbor and surf beaches, but Sydney is also blessed with vast expanses of green. From manicured gardens to wild scraggy parklands atop sandstone cliffs, Sydney is full of shady spots to escape the hustle and bustle.
Whether you’re looking for a place to picnic on the soft lawns, or spend the afternoon strolling through the stunning views. – Or maybe you need a place for the kids. – You are never far from a beautiful green space to stop and recharge. As well as these popular spots, there are smaller parks and gardens sprinkled throughout Sydney’s neighbourhoods. – Just ask a friendly local to point you in the right direction.
Hyde Park
Perfect for a city break
Now surrounded by skyscrapers, Hyde Park was originally the colony’s racecourse and cricket ground. It took on its current form in the 1920s and today is a lovely escape from the city, with manicured gardens and a tree-lined avenue running down its spine. It looks especially beautiful at night, lit up with fairy lights. The northern end of the park is crowned by the richly symbolic Art Deco Archibald Memorial Fountain, while at the other end is the Anzac Memorial. The statue of Captain Cook in the southern section has been the focus of recent controversy, largely due to the inscription ‘This area was discovered in 1770’ carved on the plinth. Located in the city’s business district, the nearest train stations are St James’s or Museum train stations.
Centennial Park
Perfect for cycling
Carved out of the sand in grand Victorian style in 1888, Sydney’s largest park spans 189 hectares filled with equestrians, joggers, cyclists and inline skaters. Grab a park map at any entrance or at the information center in between. Among the elaborate ceremonial pathways, ponds and statues is the domed Federation Pavilion. gave Ian Potter Wild Play GardenThe water play area, along with the tree house and bamboo forest, is a great natural play area for children. Exploring the park on foot is a joy; You can rent bikes, skates or go horse riding. To get here, get off the train at Bondi Junction, or catch the light rail to Moore Park on the West Bank.
Southhead
Perfect for a dramatic scene
At the north end of Camp Cove Beach, Southhead Heritage Trail begins, which leads into a section of Sydney Harbor National Park characterized by harbor views and crashing surf. It passes old forts and the Lady Bay nudist beach before visiting the candy-striped Hornby Lighthouse and sandstone lightkeepers’ cottages (1858). Between April and November, look out to sea where whale-watching boats have congregated. Buses (324, 325, and 380) take you to Military Road near Cliff Street.
North Head
Perfect for a date
About 3km south of central Manly, the stunning North Head offers dramatic cliffs, views, secluded beaches, beautiful paths through native bush, and sweeping views of the sea, harbor and city. By bike or on foot, it’s great to explore as well. Manly Scenic Walkway. Download a map and plan your route through the Headland, which includes former military barracks, WWII gun emplacements, a quarantine cemetery and a commemorative walk commemorating the Australian Army. At the top, Fairfax Lookout offers a dramatic clifftop perspective. The 9km, four-hour Manly Scenic Walkway loops around the park. To get here catch the ferry to Manly then follow the signs to the start of the walk. Shelly Beach.
Nelson Park
Perfect for a day trip
A hidden gem, this beautiful heritage-listed harborside park was once part of the then 206-hectare Vaucluse House estate. Beneath the trees is Greycliffe House, an 1851 Gothic sandstone pile (not open to visitors) that serves as the headquarters of Sydney Harbor National Park. Despite its ominous name, Shark Beach is nothing to worry about – it has nets to keep unsuspecting swimmers at ease. The scenery in Middlehead is also spectacular, so it’s easy to forget you’re in a big city. You can walk along Bay View Hill Road in Rose Bay here. The Hermitage Foreshore WalkWith stunning views of the bridge and opera house. Bus 325 will drop you off at the top corner on Vaucluse Road.
Royal Botanic Garden
Perfect for garden lovers
Just south of the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens feature manicured lawns, interesting botanical collections from around the world and ever-present views of the harbour. Inside the gardens you will find hothouses with palms and ferns, a lotus pond, and Calyx, a spectacular exhibition space featuring a wall of greenery and a curved glasshouse gallery with temporary plant-themed exhibits. Near the harbor is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, named in 1810 after Governor Macquarie’s wife Elizabeth, who ordered a seat built into the rock from which she could enjoy the view.
Established in 1816, the gardens include the colony’s first modest European vegetable garden, but their history goes back much further. Long before the arrival of the convicts, it was a primitive ground for the Gudigal (Cadigal) people. Book ahead for one Aboriginal Heritage Tour With a local guide.
Domain
Perfect for culture
Administered by the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Domain is a large grassy tract east of Macquarie Street in Sydney’s downtown area. It was set aside for public entertainment by Governor Philip in 1788 and today city workers use the place to sweat or eat their lunch. Large-scale public events are also held here. Sculptures have sunk into the park, including a reclining figure by Henry Moore, and Brett Whitley’s Almost Once (1991) – two large matches, one burned – rising from the ground near the Art Gallery of NSW in the grass. Also located within the grounds of On the lawn in front of the gallery is the Speakers’ Corner where you can catch religious zealots, political extremists, hippies and academics voicing their sincere opinions. Follow the signs to get off at St James’s train station here.
Cremorne Point
Perfect for harbor views
Technically Robertson’s Point (and Wolvara Jorg for Evora folk), the grassy reserve beyond the Cremorne ferry terminal is a lovely spot for a picnic. Head west and you’ll see free salt water. McCallum Pool For fast swimming. The main reason to head, however, is the simply stunning views of the harbour, the bridge and the Sydney Opera House. It’s especially a great spot to watch Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks. You can explore the headland on a 3km loop walk. There is a ferry across the circular quay.
Elkington Park
Perfect for local experiences
If Balmain’s historic flair doesn’t float your boat, head to Elkington Park, named after a local politician in 1883. It slopes down to the water, with views as far as Cockatoo Island. At the bottom of the escarpment, the magnificently restored late-Victorian (1884) wooden enclosure at the marine Don Fraser Baths elegantly protects swimmers from underwater undesirables. The 140-year-old baths have a small sandy beach at low tide and were renovated in 2021. Australia’s 1956-64 Olympian Don Fraser spent his youth swimming here. To find it, catch buses 433, 444 or 445 to the corner of Glassop & White Streets.
Bondi to Coogee
Great for visitors
A thrilling 6km parkland walk takes you from Bondi to Coogee and along the cliff tops via Tamarama, Bronte and Clovelly. It starts at the southern end of Bondi Beach just beyond Icebergs Lagoon. Dotted with panoramic views, there are patrolled beaches and salty sea baths for a quick refresher if you fancy it. In addition, there are small lawns along the water for picnics. Look for plaques telling local Aboriginal stories to learn more about the history of the place. The trail starts at the end of Notts Avenue and drops you off at the northern end of Coogee Beach. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, a camera and a picnic blanket. To get here, take bus 333 to Bondi Beach.
The Secret Garden by Wendy Whitley
Perfect for secret gardens
Located on Lavender Bay not far from the Sydney Harbor Bridge is one of Sydney’s hidden treasures on the North Shore. This public garden was created by the widow of much-loved Australian artist Brett Whitley after his tragic death from a heroin overdose. It was a ‘secret’ garden for a long time because Wendy (also an artist) did not ask permission to use it. Today, it is a well-known but beautiful place overlooking the harbour. The gardens are accessed via Clarke Park off Lavender Street.
One day Wendy’s Secret Garden will become part of the Sydney Harbor High Line project, which will start at the southern end of the Lavender Bay rail line and run through the existing tunnel under McMahons Point to Weaverton Station.
Chinese Friendship Garden
Perfect for Asian inspiration
Designed according to Taoist principles of Yin Yang. Chinese Friendship Garden The busy area of Darling Harbor is usually an oasis of calm – although one is increasingly dwarfed by modern buildings. Designed by architects from Guangzhou (Sydney’s sister city) to mark Australia’s bicentenary in 1988, it was built by Chinese landscape architects and Australian craftsmen and specialists. The garden combines pavilions, waterfalls, lakes, pathways and lush plant life. There is also a tea house that serves endless yum cha. Admission is by fee and tours are available. The nearest station is at Town Hall.
Tumbalong Park
Perfect for kids in the city
Next door to the Chinese Friendship Garden, Tumbalong Park is a great place to take kids who need to run around. This grassy circle on the southern rump of Darling Harbor attracts sunbakers and Frisbee throwers. There is a great playground for kids with a 21 meter flying fox (zip line). But the highlight for most children and overheated tourists is the Aqua Play Area, where fountains offer respite from Sydney’s downtown district on a summer afternoon.
Barangaroo Reserve
Perfect for design
Part of Barangaroo, the city’s harbor masterplan, the park sits on a headland with stunning harbor views. The tiered space combines quarried sandstone, native Australian trees and native shrubs and flowers to create a space that feels very Australian. An elevator connecting the park’s three levels is good for travelers with tired legs or those pushing a stroller or with mobility issues. There is a car park downstairs and lots of good food options in nearby Barangaroo.
You may also like:
Everything you need to know to get around Sydney.
Top 5 Day Trips from Sydney
31 free things to do in Sydney