Spring is one of Sydney’s most photogenic seasons, with the city coming alive in vibrant colour, especially in gorgeous lilac thanks to the blooming jacaranda trees around town. These striking blooms take over the city for just a few weeks only and have become synonymous with springtime in Sydney. Despite their widespread association with Australia, jacaranda are not native here. Originally from Brazil, they were introduced in the 19th century and have since flourished in Sydney’s tropical climate and sunny weather. These are some must-visit places to see Jacaranda in Sydney this season.
1. McDougall Street, Kirribilli
You’ve probably already seen this snap-happy spot on your social media feed. If not, get ready to be bombed with gorgeous photos of McDougall Street — the most famous jacaranda-lined street in Sydney during spring. The canopy of vibrant purple blooms creates a wonderfully photogenic sight, making it the go-to destination for photographers, Instagrammers and flower lovers alike. The street is usually packed with tourists, influencers and locals so to capture the perfect shot, plan your visit early in the morning. It’s also a residential area so visitors are asked to be considerate of people and traffic. Read all about it here.
2. Paddington
Easily one of the prettiest Eastern Sydney suburbs, Paddington only gets prettier in the warmer months thanks to all the gorgeous jacaranda trees lined across the trendy area. The best places to experience the jacaranda spectacle are Oxford Street and Glenmore Road, especially the intersection where the two meet. Five Ways and Vaucluse House are also excellent spots to see the rich purple blooms.
3. Lavender Bay
The harbourside suburb of Lavender Bay offers a wonderful mix of beautiful gardens, harbour views and more. True to its name, it transforms into a vibrant sea of lavender hue during jacaranda season. While it draws plenty of visitors especially this time of year, it offers plenty of peace and quiet to enjoy a picnic or soak up the sun surrounded by jacaranda trees.
4. Parramatta
Over in Western Sydney, Parramatta boasts its own picturesque corners when the jacaranda are in bloom. Elizabeth Farm is a great place to start with vibrant jacaranda adding to the historic charm of the grounds. Also worth a visit is the small but lovely Prince Alfred Square, perfect for a stroll. Parramatta Park is another must-see, with jacarandas lined across its wide, open spaces. The nearby Parramatta River and Centenary Square also get a beautiful touch of purple this time of year.
5. The University of Sydney
There are plenty of reasons to visit Australia’s oldest university — from its underground graffiti tunnel to its Hogwartesque architecture and excellent location. Another reason to visit is the University of Sydney’s vibrant jacaranda tree which you can find in the Sydney uni quadrangle. The Jacaranda stood tall on the premises for 88 years before dying in 2016. Luckily, the university managed to clone it before its collapse and as the new tree continues to grow we can hopefully expect some of the same magic and charm as its predecessor.
6. Circular Quay
Looking for the best Jacaranda trail in Sydney? Start your spring adventure at the Royal Botanic Garden and take a scenic stroll up to Circular Quay and The Rocks. While the harbour never disappoints when it comes to lovely waterside views, the vibrant jacaranda blooms add a special charm to the area. Blanketed in jacaranda petals, First Fleet Park, in particular, is a highlight. Surrounded by lovely harbour views, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy the views and while away a weekend afternoon.
7. Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden is one of the best spots if you’re looking to immerse yourself in springtime florals, making it the perfect starting point for your jacaranda hunt. Located in the heart of Sydney, the popular botanical garden, offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of quiet corners. As you stroll through its pathways, you’ll be treated to delightful jacaranda blooms, adding a dash of purple to the landscape. It’s also located by the harbour so you can’t fault the views. If you want a break from the heat, head to their immersive rainforest exhibition at The Calyx.
8. Kogarah
Kogarah is one of the most underrated places when it comes to jacaranda in Sydney which is surprising considering it’s estimated to have over 300 blooming trees within the LGA. The top spot to visit here is Hogben Park, where jacarandas have been planted within the grounds, creating a stunning canopy of vibrant purple flowers. Just around the corner is Fry’s Reserve another blooming spot that offers plenty of jacaranda charm without the crowds. If you’re planning a day out, pack a picnic and spend a few hours soaking up the beauty.
9. Hunters Hill
The leafy suburb of Hunters Hill is a popular destination during jacaranda season especially when the trees are in full bloom. Visitors can even go on guided and self-guided walking tours to explore the suburb’s most picturesque streets and hidden alleyways. Alexandra Street and the areas around the Hunters Hill Historical Society are draped in lovely purple colour and the neighbouring suburbs of Greenwich, Waverton and Woolwich are also awash with lavender colour and a must-visit this time of the year.
10. Woolloomooloo
If you’re not a fan of crowds but want to enjoy the beauty of the jacarandas, there are a few quieter spots around the city that the influencers haven’t discovered yet. One such hidden gem is Cathedral Street in Woolloomooloo. This is the perfect jacaranda viewing spot and a favourite amongst photographers. Despite its photogenic appeal, it remains surprisingly under the radar. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse of the Sydney Centrepoint Tower peeking out among the purple trees, adding an extra touch of jacaranda to Sydney’s skyline.
11. Camden
A short drive out of Sydney will take you to Camden, a charming town filled with green spaces and a main street that’s chock full of gorgeous jacaranda trees. In 2017, additional jacarandas were planted along Argyle Street, joining the lovely collection of over thirty 90-year-old jacaranda trees that have stood tall for decades. The result is an immersive purple display, turning the streets into a jacaranda wonderland. Check out what else is on in Camden here.
12. Grafton
Grafton is a 6.5-hour drive from Sydney but if you can’t get enough of jacaranda, the long drive is definitely worth it. Rightfully dubbed the “Jacaranda capital of Australia”, Grafton boasts some of the most stunning displays of purple blooms in the country. The tree-lined streets also act as the backdrop for the town’s famous annual Jacaranda Festival, a beloved local event that celebrates the season with parades, markets, after-dark events and more.