Are you planning a fun family day out in Sydney? Or, perhaps you’re gunning for that ‘Best Parent’ badge these school holidays? With so much to see and do in Sydney, it can be a daunting task to keep the little ones entertained, while scoring yourself some brownie points — might take a lil’ more effort and creativity than you think.
Lucky for you, I’ve already done the homework! Check out this hotlist of the best things to do in Sydney with the whole family, and make your next family outing an unforgettable one!
A harbour cruise
A dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour is a tried and true way to spend quality family time, with great food and iconic views. You get 2–3 hours of smooth cruising time along the dazzling harbour, all while digging into a delicious dinner. Kids get to soak in the views, parents get to relax (finally) and everyone leaves with full bellies and cracking snaps for the family album! Trust me, those family portraits against the Opera House and Harbour Bridge under the Sydney night sky? That’s ‘fridge photo’ material right there. These cruises tick all the boxes for an exciting evening out in Sydney, minus the hassle of planning and organising!
Whale watching tours
Every year, from May to November, Sydney’s coastline transforms into the Humpback Highway — the best vantage for spotting majestic humpbacks on their northern migration. I took my nephew out on a morning cruise once, he’s not usually one to sit still, but the moment a mama whale breached just metres away? Eyes wide, jaw dropped, zero screen time.
There are several family-friendly cruises that depart from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, offering comfy seating and expert commentary. Oh, and you’re gonna get wet, so be prepared!
SEA Life Aquarium
If it’s raining cats and dogs or you’re after an indoor activity that still packs a punch, SEA LIFE at Darling Harbour is a no-brainer. Sharks, rays. dugongs, little penguins, turtles; they’re all about swimming here.
The glass tunnels are always a hit, not just for the little rascals but for the adult-kids as well. It’s got that ‘walking on the ocean floor’ energy, minus the snorkel. Plus, they’ve got immersive experiences like Penguin Expedition, Jurassic Seas, Day & Night On The Reef and Shark Valley! It’s one of the hottest family activities in Sydney for a reason!
Pro tip: Go early to dodge the crowd and download the activity trail to keep the little ones engaged.
Sydney Olympic Park
This place is a bloody goldmine for families. Once the world stage for the Olympics in 2000 is now a massive adventure zone for locals and visitors alike.
You can hire bikes and hit the scenic pathways or give archery a crack at the Sydney Olympic Park Archery Centre – yes, kids can have a go too! It’s one of those rare spots where you can have an action-packed day that doesn’t drain your wallet.
Raging Waters Sydney
When the scorching summer rolls in, there’s only one place to take the kids and cool off — Raging Waters Sydney. It’s one of the biggest water parks in the country and it absolutely slaps.
With slides ranging from mild to mental, wave pools, toddler zones and shaded cabanas for chill time, it’s built for all kinds of families. I’d recommend getting there early, slapping on some sunscreen and securing a locker, before the water-filled chaos begins!
The best thing about exploring Sydney with family? You’re never more than a ferry ride or a short drive from your next adventure. One day you’re cruising with whales, the next you’re nailing bullseyes in Olympic Park. Sydney does ‘family-friendly’ really well! So pack the snacks, slap on the hats and let Sydney show you a good time with the fam.
