Top Family Vacation Spots in Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia, Sydney, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Top Family Vacation Spots

Top Family Vacation Spots in Sydney, Australia

1. Sydney Aquarium

Explore underwater world with thousands of marine animals. Interactive displays make learning fun for kids.
  • Underwater Tunnel: Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays and fish.
  • Shark Valley: See sharks of various species, including the Harmless Port Jackson Shark.
  • Dugong Exhibit: Meet the friendly dugong, Pig, who is one of the last five left in the world.

2. Sydney Wildlife Zoo

Up-close encounters with Australian wildlife. Koala selfies are a must!
  • Koala Encounters: Hold and take photos with adorable koalas.
  • Rainforest Floor: Walk through a rainforest floor and see Australian animals in their natural habitat.
  • Kakadu Gorge: Visit the Kakadu Gorge exhibit and learn about crocodiles and snakes.

3. Sydney Tower Eye

Breathtaking views of Sydney from the tallest building in Sydney. Visit at sunset for a magical experience.
  • Revolving Restaurant: Dine while rotating 360 degrees for panoramic views.
  • Binoculars: Use high-powered binoculars to see landmarks like the Opera House and Harbor Bridge.
  • Sky Pod: Stand on the Skywalk, a glass floor observation deck, for an exhilarating experience.

4. Taronga Zoo

Exotic animals from around the world, with views of the Sydney Harbor. A perfect family day out.
  • Wildlife Retreat: Get up close to orangutans, gorillas, and western lowland gorillas.
  • Roar and Snore: Spend a night at the zoo for a unique safari experience.
  • Sky Safari Cable Car: Take a cable car ride over the Sydney Harbor to reach the zoo.

5. Darling Harbour

A vibrant waterfront precinct with attractions, shops and restaurants. Perfect for family-friendly fun.
  • Sea Life Sydney Aquarium: See the world's largest collection of Australian sea life.
  • Madame Tussauds: Rub shoulders with wax figures of famous personalities.
  • Australian National Maritime Museum: Explore the history of Australia's maritime heritage.

6. Bondi Beach

Iconic Australian beach with calm waters perfect for families. Learn to surf or just soak up the sun.
  • Icebergs Pool: Swim in the historic Bondi Icebergs Pool, open year-round.
  • Bondi to Coogee Walk: Take a scenic coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach.
  • Surf Lessons: Learn to surf with professional instructors at Bondi Surf School.

7. Luna Park

Classic amusement park with thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions.
  • Scenic Railway: Experience the world's oldest continuous Scenic Railway.
  • Pirate Island: Let kids enjoy a splash in Pirate Island, Luna Park's water play area.
  • Halloween Party: Join the annual Halloween party for a spooktacular time.

8. Manly Beach and Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

Combine a beautiful beach with an aquarium filled with marine life. Take the scenic ferry ride for the best experience.
  • Snorkeling: Go snorkeling at the Manly Aquatic Reserve to see tropical fish and coral.
  • Ferry Ride: Take a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach.
  • Surfing Lessons: Learn to surf with professional instructors at Manly Surf School.

9. Featherdale Wildlife Park

Cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos at this wildlife park in the western suburbs of Sydney.
  • Koala Cuddles: Cuddle a koala in the Koala Encounter experience.
  • Roam amongst Kangaroos: Walk through the kangaroo enclosure and feed them by hand.
  • Reptile Display: See a wide variety of Australian reptiles, including venomous snakes.

10. Wildlife Sydney Zoo

Experience the wonders of Australian wildlife in a naturalistic setting. Hold a baby crocodile and see wombats up close.
  • Baby Croc Experience: Hold a baby crocodile during the Crocodile Show.
  • Meet the Wombats: Interact with these cute, marsupial mammals in their enclosure.
  • Nocturnal Houses: Visit the Nocturnal House to see night-active Australian animals like quokkas and possums.

11. Sydney Olympic Park

Home to the famous stadiums used in the 2000 Summer Olympics. Offers a variety of family-friendly attractions.
  • Aquatic Centre: Swim in the Olympic-size pool or relax in the leisure pool.
  • Sydney Showground: Attend concerts, events and exhibitions throughout the year.
  • Go-Karting: Race go-karts at Kart World Sydney.

12. Centennial Parklands

Large, green park with playgrounds, picnic areas and walking trails. A perfect spot for a family day out.
  • Children's Playground: Enjoy the various playgrounds designed for different age groups.
  • Picnic Areas: Relax and enjoy a picnic in one of the many designated areas.
  • Walking Trails: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the walking trails throughout the park.

13. Sydney Royal Botanic Garden

Beautiful garden with over 70,000 different plant species. A peaceful escape from the city.
  • Palm Grove: Stroll through the picturesque Palm Grove, home to over 500 different palm species.
  • Sydney's First Tea House: Relax and enjoy a cup of tea at the Calyx Cafe, housed in Sydney's first tea house.
  • Tropical Rainforest Walk: Walk through a lush rainforest filled with exotic plants and flowers.

14. Sydney's Beaches

Enjoy the beautiful beaches surrounding Sydney, each offering unique experiences for families.
  • Bondi Beach: Iconic beach with calm waters and a lively atmosphere.
  • Manly Beach: Beautiful beach with surf lessons, snorkeling, and a marine sanctuary.
  • Coogee Beach: Family-friendly beach with a coastal walk to Bondi Beach.

15. Sydney's Playgrounds

Discover the many playgrounds scattered across Sydney, perfect for children of all ages.
  • Darling Harbour Playground: Large playground with water features and views of the harbor.
  • Centennial Parklands Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds within a large park, each catering to different age groups.
  • Barangaroo Reserve Playground: Modern playground with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.