October Long Weekend in Sydney

Sydney's famous icons

See a new side to Sydney's most iconic sites. Delve into the dark past of Cockatoo Island on a tour, go behind the sails of the Sydney Opera House on a backstage tour and learn about bush tucker at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Try all 11 unique ways to experience Sydney's most famous spots.

Aboriginal bush tucker tour, Royal Botanic Gardens

Scenic ferry trips

One of the best ways to experience Sydney's natural beauty is by exploring its pretty waterways on a scenic ferry ride, whether that's on the classic Circular Quay to Manly route or further afield in the Hawkesbury and the Royal National Park. 

Sydney Harbour Ferry, Sydney

Picnics, parks and jacarandas

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Sydney with an array of flowers and plants coming into bloom. Visit one of the city's beautiful parks to see native flora, such as Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden and the Royal Botanic Gardens, or follow our jacaranda trail to see the purple flowers in bloom across the city. Linger longer by stopping for a picnic in one of Sydney’s beautiful green spaces and secret spots. 

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden, Lavender Bay

Whale watching cruises and lookouts

In October, thousands of whales make their way down the east coast of Australia towards Antarctica. Spot them from vantage points like Barrenjoey Lighthouse, North Head, the Federation Cliff Walk and Cape Solander. You can also hop aboard a whale-watching cruise with companies such as Whale Watching Sydney, Oz Whale Watching, or Ocean Extreme. Plan your adventure with our guide to whale watching in Sydney.

Whale Watching, Sydney

Zoos, aquariums and wildlife encounters

Taronga Zoo is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Meet lions, giraffes, zebras and meerkats in the African Savannah exhibit, take an immersive Tiger Trek through the Indonesian jungle, and watch the seals show off their aquatic skills at the daily presentations. In Darling Harbour, explore the Great Barrier Reef by night at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or spot the koalas in Gum Tree Valley (and many more critters) at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. In Western Sydney, Sydney Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world in sprawling, innovative exhibits. For an extra memorable experience, meet animals up close.

Taronga Zoo, Mosman

Beaches, swimming spots and surfing

With the weather warming up, the October long weekend is a great time for a dip. Check the surf at the beaches in the Eastern Suburbs or Northern Beaches. If you wish to venture further, follow one of our curated surf trips surrounding Sydney, and if you are a beginner wanting to learn the basics, book into a class with a surf school. For more sand and surf, discover Sydney’s secret harbour beaches and top family-friendly beaches. Along the coast are spectacular ocean pools for a swim, like the 115-year-old Wylie’s Baths in Coogee and Bronte Baths. 

North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen

Waterfalls and picture-perfect spots

Looking for that perfect Instagram shot? Chase the prettiest waterfalls in and around Sydney, from the gentle cascades at Collins Flat Beach in Manly to the popular Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains. 

Wentworth Falls track, Blue Mountains

Walks and coastal trails

Get active by exploring the city’s walking trails, from coastal pathways to longer day hikes outside of the city. The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, the Sydney Harbour Bridge to South Head and the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk all provide glorious views of the city and its surrounds. 

Tamarama Beach, Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Outdoor adventures: bike rides, horse riding and camping

If you prefer to travel on two wheels, check out these top cycling routes, mountain biking trails and bike tours. Other fun outdoor activities include horse riding and camping (there are plenty of stunning campsites just a hop, skip and a jump away from the CBD). To truly escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visit one of Sydney's national parks. 

Manly Dam, Manly Vale

Adrenaline-fuelled activities

Head to Western Sydney for a whole host of exciting activities. You’ll find elevated obstacle courses and rollercoaster zip lines for the whole family at TreeTop Adventure Park. In Penrith, fly through the air with a water jet-powered backpack with Jetpack Adventures, hug the corners on a high-speed go-kart track at Luddenham Raceway and much more. At Sydney Olympic Park the kids can try archery, bike around Bicentennial Park or check into the dive clinic at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Discover 34 more adrenaline activities.

Jetpack Adventures, Penrith

Indoor activities

If it's raining outside, you can still take a dip in one of Sydney's restorative bathhouses, onsens and hammams. Go skydiving without having to get in a plane at iFLY Downunder, enjoy yum cha and learn how to make gin. Challenge yourself to complete all 26 indoor activities.

Suki, Mona Value - Credit: Suki