Want the best view in Sydney? As one of the most stunning cities in the world, Sydney is home to a range of great lookout points, helping you take in everything the Harbour City has to offer. If you really want to appreciate everything this harbourside city has to offer, head to these lookouts and viewpoints for the complete experience.
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Table of contents
- 1. Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Palm Beach
- 2. McMahons Point
- 3. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
- 4. Manns Point Lookout
- 5. Milk Beach
- 6. Ben Buckler Lookout
- 7. Arabanoo Lookout
- 8. West Head lookout
- 9. Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill
- 10. Lavender Bay
- 11. Berrys Bay Lookout
- 12. The Gap, Watsons Bay
- 13. Dolphins Point Lookout
- 14. Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk
- 15. Observatory Hill
- 16. Lincoln’s Rock, Blue Mountains
- 17. Bradley’s Head, Mosman
- 18. Blackwattle Bay Park
- 19. Fairfax Lookout, Manly
- 20. Broughton St Lookout
- 21. Cahill Walk Lookout
- 22. Yarranabbe Park
- 23. Dudley Page Reserve
- 24. Georges Head Lookout
- 25. Robertson Park
- 26. Balls Head Reserve Lookout
- 27. Sydney Tower Eye
- 28. Barangaroo Reserve
- 29. Goat Island
- 30. Duff Reserve
- General FAQs
1. Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Palm Beach
For one of the most northerly viewpoints in Sydney, head to Barrenjoey Lighthouse in the peaceful town of Palm Beach. It’s a short hike up to the top of the lighthouse and once you’re up the top enjoy panoramic views of the jagged Northern Beaches coastline and admire the beautiful Palm Beach.
Address: 1199D Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach
Phone: (02) 9451 3479
Hours: Open 24 hours
2. McMahons Point
McMahons Point has one of the best views in Sydney if you’re looking for a picture-perfect view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The image is square on to both attractions which no other Sydney lookout has. The grass patch at Blues Point Reserve is the perfect picnic spot, so pack some snacks and let the views be your entertainment.
Address: Blues Point Road, North Sydney
Phone: (02) 9936 8100
Hours: Open 24 hours
3. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Located in the Botanic Garden, the view from here is best for capturing the priceless Sydney sunset. There are plenty of different vantage points here to enjoy the view, so don’t stress if it’s looking busy. Located right on the shoreline, you’ll also get a nice sea breeze.
Address: 1d Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney
Phone: (02) 9231 8111
Hours: Open 24 hours
4. Manns Point Lookout
A hidden spot with great views of the entire harbour, Manns Point in Greenwich is a peaceful pit stop whatever time of the day. Make a day of it by hopping on the ferry from Circular Quay and enjoying the scenic ferry ride to Greenwich Point Wharf- the lookout is just a short walk from the ferry stop.
Address: Prospect Street, Greenwich
Phone: (02) 9911 3555
Hours: Open 24 hours
5. Milk Beach
Milk beach has one of the best views in Sydney and is also one of our favourite beaches- two beautiful things in one place! The beach is small and secluded, so be prepared for a bit of a hike down to the water (and back up.) But it’s worth it- the shimmering turquoise water and Sydney skyline views are priceless.
Address: Hermit Bay, Sydney National Park
Hours: Open 24 Hours
6. Ben Buckler Lookout
With spectacular views of Sydney’s much-loved Bondi Beach and the Pacific Ocean, the Ben Buckler Lookout is a top coastal viewpoint. Walk to North Bondi and enjoy all the other stunning views that pop up along the way. A quick stop here will make you ever so grateful to call this seaside country home.
Address: 158 Brighton Boulevard, North Bondi
Hours: Open 24 hours
7. Arabanoo Lookout
For amazing views of North and South Head, Middle Harbour and the Tasman Sea, this iconic lookout in Balgowlah Heights is the perfect spot. A bit of a way out from Sydney’s CBD, you can make a day of it by stopping here along the popular Spit to Manly walking track.
Address: Jellicoe Street, Balgowlah Heights
Hours: Open 24 hours
8. West Head lookout
Views of the ocean that seem to go on forever can be seen at the West Head lookout in the Ku-ring-gai National Park, north of Sydney. This lookout is at the beginning of the glorious hour-long hike down to Resolute Beach, a secluded oasis with more views over-looking Pittwater and Palm Beach.
Address: West Head Road, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase}
Phone: (02) 9451 3479
Hours: Everyday 6 am – 6 pm
9. Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill
Cooper Park in Bellevue Hill is a quaint park that sits in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs with plenty of hidden lookout spots. There are also various trails, picnic areas and tennis courts. The views are leafy and green, overlooking rolling hills that make you feel much further away than you are.
Address: Suttie Road, Bellevue hill
Phone: (02) 9391 7000
Hours: Open 24 hours
10. Lavender Bay
Spectacular views of the harbour and Luna Park will be found at Lavender Bay on the northern side of Sydney. This lookout has one of the best views of Sydney and is most special at night, with the colourful lights of Luna Park and the sparkling Harbour Bridge casting a magical spell across the bay.
Address: Lavender Bay, Sydney
Hours: Open 24 hours
11. Berrys Bay Lookout
Doubling as an iconic lookout and a versatile public space, this viewpoint has a bit of everything. Located along the Waverton peninsula and as a part of Carrandah park, this spot has perfect views of the Harbour Bridge, Berry Bay and the city skyline.
Address: 6 Larkin Street, Waverton
Phone: (02) 9936 8100
Hours: Open 24 hours
12. The Gap, Watsons Bay
A stunning cliff face with panoramic views, The Gap offers some of the best views in Sydney from the more easterly corners. Hop on the ferry to Watsons Bay and take a short stroll through Robertson Park- the lookout is just opposite the ferry wharf. The Gap also features some of Sydney’s most scenic coastal walks.
Address: 27 Military Road, Watsons Bay
Phone: (02) 9391 7000
Hours: Open 24 hours
13. Dolphins Point Lookout
Dolphins Point is a sublime lookout for those seeking out unapparelled ocean views. At this lookout, you will also find The Bali Memorial, in memory of the lives lost in the Bali Bombings. With the deep blues and crashing waves in your eye line, this view is certainly a spot for reflection.
Address: Dolphins Point, Coogee
Hours: Open 24 hours
14. Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk
One of the greatest views of Sydney is from one of our main attractions – the Sydney Harbour Bridge! You can walk across the Harbour Bridge for a fee and once you reach the top, you will be met with views that make it well worth the trek. Book a walk for sunrise or sunset to get the full experience.
Address: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
Phone: (02) 8274 7777
Hours: 6 am – 8 pm
15. Observatory Hill
Observatory Hill is a popular lookout if you’re an office worker in the CBD, just a quick dash from your desk for some much-needed fresh air and reprieve. The view provides up close and personal views of our famed bridge. Observatory Hill also doubles as a heritage-listed meteorological station, astronomical observatory and science museum.
Address: 1001 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point
Phone: (02) 9265 9333
Hours: Open 24 hours
16. Lincoln’s Rock, Blue Mountains
For a view of the mountainous type, the Blue Mountains has aplenty. Our favourite is Lincoln’s Rock which is a huge rockface with stunning views of Jamison Valley that seem to go on forever. The panoramic view of the incredible landscape will have you pinching yourself!
Address: 51 Little Switzerland Drive, Wentworth Falls
Hours: Open 24 hours
17. Bradley’s Head, Mosman
Located in the charming Sydney Harbour National Park, Bradley’s Head in Mosman is an exceptional lookout with amazing views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and for something a bit different, the island of Fort Denison. It is also a cute picnic area and often full of fisherman trying to catch their luck.
Address: Bradley’s Head Road, Mosman
Phone: 1300 072 757
Hours: 7 am – 7 pm daily
18. Blackwattle Bay Park
The Glebe foreshore is an underrated lookout spot with some of the best views in Sydney. Blackwattle Bay Park is nestled along this foreshore between Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay. Our favourite aspect of this lookout is the stunning views of the real gem of the inner west – the Anzac Bridge!
Address: 53 Leichhardt Street, Glebe
Phone: (02) 9265 9333
Hours: Open 24 hours
19. Fairfax Lookout, Manly
The Fairfax Lookout offers spectacular views that make you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. Situated at the southernmost point of Manly’s leafy North Head, it’s a short hike to get to the lookout so make a day of it exploring all that North Head has to offer.
Address: Fairfax Walking Track, Manly
Phone: (02) 9960 6266
Hours: 6 am – 8 pm daily
20. Broughton St Lookout
Broughton St lookout is right in the thick of it with close up views of the bridge and the Opera House. The lookout is at the end of Bradfield Park in Kirribilli and is easy to get to, just a scenic walk across the Harbour Bridge from Circular Quay.
Address: Bradfield Park, Kirribilli
Phone: (02) 9936 8100
Hours: Open 24 hours
21. Cahill Walk Lookout
The Cahill Walk lookout is perched right above Circular Quay railway station and effortlessly provides some of the best views of Sydney. Sitting right above the ferry dock, you can also enjoy watching the ferries as they come and go. The walkway is a pedestrian footpath, so don’t stop for too long.
Address: Circular Quay, Sydney
Hours: Open 24 hours
22. Yarranabbe Park
A well-kept Sydney secret, Yarranabbe Park has sublime views of the cityscape and the neighbouring marina. The lookout has a foreshore location in Darling Point and it a noted stopping point along the scenic walking track from Rushcutters Bay to Rose Bay.
Address: New Beach Road, Darling Point
Phone: (02) 9391 7000
Hours: Open 24 hours
23. Dudley Page Reserve
Picturesque views from a renowned Sydney vantage point, Dudley Page Reserve is one of our favourite lookouts. This viewpoint has become a Dover Heights hotspot, with tourist buses even making the reserve an essential visiting point. Because you’re so elevated and far away, the views are panoramic with a dreamy blue-tinged mountain backdrop.
Address: Lancaster Road, Military Road, Dover Heights
Phone: (02) 9083 8300
Hours: Open 24 hours
24. Georges Head Lookout
Georges Head is a popular lookout point and also a site of historic Sydney military relics. At the lookout, you’ll find tunnels and cannons as well as views of the harbour, North Head and South Head. So, if you love a bit of history and some sightseeing on the side, a trip to Georges Head may be your perfect day out.
Address: Suakin Drive, Mosman
Phone: (02) 9960 6266
Hours: Open 24 hours
25. Robertson Park
Robertson Park is a beautiful park nestled in the leafy suburb of Watsons Bay against a backdrop of some of the best views in Sydney. The park has it all- playgrounds, tables, nearby beaches and most importantly – views of the city skyline!
Address: 22 Military Road, Watsons Bay
Phone: (02) 9391 7000
Hours: Open 24 hours
26. Balls Head Reserve Lookout
Located in a preserved bushland nature park just a stone’s throw away from the Sydney CBD, Balls Head Reserve has multiple walking tracks and lookouts with unique views of Sydney Harbour. You also get sublime views of the peninsulas neighbouring the nature park. This lookout is also a great spot to come for the New Years Eve fireworks display if you’re hoping to find a secluded viewing spot.
Address: Balls Head Drive, Waverton
Phone: (02) 9936 8100
Hours: Open 24 hours
27. Sydney Tower Eye
A sight in itself, the Sydney Tower Eye has a variety of great spaces for you to enjoy the panoramic views on offer. The tallest observation tower in the Southern hemisphere, enjoy the sights from the restaurant and bar or the observation deck. Because the views are so expansive, the best thing to do on your visit here is to try and spot your house!
Address: Level 5 Westfield Sydney, 108 Market Street, Sydney
Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily
28. Barangaroo Reserve
Probably the newest spot on the list, Barangaroo Reserve is a shining example of an area that has been beautifully transformed. What used to be a remnant of the areas industrial past, the foreshore reserve is now the perfect spot to sit by the water and soak in the reflections of the city lights.
Address: Hickson Road, Barangaroo
Phone: (02) 9255 1700
Hours Open 24 hours
29. Goat Island
Goat Island is a heritage-listed island located in Port Jackson and its secluded location offers some of the best views in Sydney. The island is a tall sandstone formation and has been used over time as a quarry, convict stockade and a police station.
Address: Goat Island, Sydney Harbour
Phone: (02) 9337 5511
Hours: Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm
30. Duff Reserve
Duff Reserve is a small park that makes up for its size in the quality of its views. Located on the northernmost point of Point Piper, you will be met with stunning views of the Harbour Bridge, Milsons Point and Garden Island. This is another one of our favourite spots to view the New Years Eve fireworks.
Address: Wolseley Road, Point Piper
Phone: (02) 9391 7000
Hours: 7 am – 8 pm daily
General FAQs
Sydney is full of amazing lookouts! Our top picks are Fairfax Lookout, Bradley's Head and Observatory Hill. All three of these spots offer great views of the cuty's most iconic structures, from the Sydney Opera House to the Harbour Bridge.
While you could argue some spots, such as Barangaroo Reserve offer unparalleled views of the city, it is hard to top the view from the Sydney Tower Eye.
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