Whoever you're going to Sydney with this summer, there's much more than just beaches and shopping to keep you occupied, writes Jane Jurgens.
3 things to do with the family
Explore Darling Harbour
There are enough options here to keep the whole family entertained. Start with the SeaLife Sydney Aquarium, which has the world's largest collection of Australian marine life, including a very cool dugong exhibit. Around the corner is the Wild Life Sydney Zoo, home to koalas, kangaroos, platypuses and Tasmanian devils. The harbour has restaurants and outdoor dining areas (although be prepared to pay tourist prices), plus weekly Saturday night fireworks, ten-pin bowling, the Australian National Maritime Museum, and harbour cruises.
This walk is perfect for active families who want to make the most of Sydney's epic coastline. Stroll the 6km cliff-top pathway, stop at beaches, parks and bays along the way, and keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins out to sea. The Bondi - Coogee leg takes about two hours, and if that's not enough to wear out little legs, continue on for another 90 minutes to get to Maroubra.
Visit Cockatoo Island
This Unesco heritage listed island is ideal for a daytrip and to teach the kids more about Australia's maritime and convict history. Audio tours are available or you can just wander at leisure, exploring the docks, tunnels, houses and silos. There are a couple of cafes on the island, or bring your own food and use the free barbecues.
Australia's oldest wine region is just two hours' drive from Sydney but as the Hunter Valley has more cellar doors than any other wine region in Australia, your best bet is to get someone else to do the driving. Wine tours are available with a variety of operators, who will pick you up from the city. Or hire a car and rent some accommodation for a night or two, then make the most of the excellent farmers' markets, the restaurants and, of course, the picturesque region's wineries.
The Hunter Valley. Photo / Destination NSW
Kayak in the harbour
One of the best ways to see Sydney is on the water, but the ferry isn't much of a challenge. Get your group together, rent some kayaks and paddle your way around the secluded beaches and hidden coves all along the city coastline. Bring a picnic - or even a tent - and find your own piece of coastal paradise.
Go to The Island
The Island is a floating space often used for private events, but also as a members' only beach club where you and friends can spend the day swimming, drinking, relaxing and posing. Not a member? Request to become an Ambassador at The Island's website. Once approved, you can book tickets: $45 per person on Saturdays and $40 on Sundays. Price includes return water taxi transfers, venue entry and a welcome drink.
3 things to do for couples
See stars at Sydney Observatory
If it's too cloudy to see the night sky, head up to Observatory Hill and inside this beautiful state-listed heritage building which has telescopes, a 3D space theatre and planetarium. As well as regular shows, it has special events, such as the New Year's Eve party offering some of the best views of the Harbour Bridge fireworks.
, grown-ups can have fun too with an overnight glamping experience including a stay in a cliff-top tent site, buffet dinner and a 90-minute night safari. You'll wake to the sound of the animals beginning their day. Roar and Snore nights are offered year round, but must be booked in advance as demand is high
Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo. Photo / Lorinda Taylor
Escape to the Blue Mountains
Get away from the sticky summer city humidity and breathe in the fresh, eucalyptus-scented air of the Blue Mountains, just two hours by train from the CBD. You can have an active escape with hiking trails, rock climbing and abseiling, or keep it relaxed with luxury accommodation, beautiful restaurants, and galleries.
3 things to do solo
Swim at Icebergs It's one of Sydney's most photographed spots and for good reason - the views from Bondi Icebergs oceanside pool are outstanding. Buy a casual pass for AU$6.50 and you'll have access to the pool and sauna, then head upstairs to the bistro for a meal with an unbeatable view. There's regular live music and special events, many of which are open to non-members.
Take a tour
Tours are a great option for single travellers as you'll be in a like-minded group with whom you can interact as much - or as little - as you like. From food to walking, brewery to indigenous, cycle to harbour cruises, there's definitely a tour to suit whatever you're interested in. If you're perfectly happy with your own company, book a private tour with Splendour Tailored Tours, who will build an itinerary based on your requests.
Spend a day lost in a world of art, history and culture at one of Sydney's many excellent museums and galleries. Tripadvisor reviewers rate Art Gallery of New South Wales as the city's No. 1, followed by Sydney Observatory, Hyde Park Barracks Museum, Australian National Maritime Museum and the Powerhouse Museum. For something a bit different, head to the Nicholson Museum at University of Sydney to see antiquities from around the world, dating as far back as Ancient Egypt. Or check out White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale for contemporary Chinese art.
FACT BOX
Getting there
Qantas flies from Auckland to Sydney, with return Economy Class fares from $567.
