When you live in Sydney, all you need to do is randomly point and shoot with your phone and you get a stunning picture – we’re just that spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful views. Still, if you want to steadily tick off the best views of Sydney, these wonderful lookouts will give you idyllic glimpses of the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, and much more more. We’ve even picked out a few more off-the-beaten-track lookouts that’ll take you away from the CBD and to lesser-known scenic views. So, get your boots on and go in search of these spectacular lookouts in and around Sydney that are guaranteed to take your breath away. Oh, and don’t forget your camera!
Best lookouts for views of the Sydney Opera House
An indelible icon of Sydney for the past 50 years, and the world’s most photographed theatre, there’s a very good reason that nobody can resist drinking in the views of the Opera House, no matter how long you’ve lived here.
1. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
The lookout from the rocks around Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is absolutely breathtaking. Containing both the Opera House and The Harbour Bridge in one frame, it faces west so you also get the sunset as the backdrop – a total win-win. Park yourself in the Chair itself and you’ll be facing east, with some nice views across the water towards Taronga Zoo, Rose Bay, and Watsons Bay.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk
Climb one icon to look at another! There is a pedestrian walkway which is completely free and offers some great panoramic views of the city. You can also do a guided walk across the bridge. The best time to do is around sunset but if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try making it for sunrise. It’s a view to behold.
3. Cremorne Point
If you’ve got time for a leisurely stroll, we highly recommend the entire Cremorne Point Walk, it’s an easy 3km walk and the views are to die for. You really cannot lose.
4. Opera Bar
The best thing about the Opera Bar is that you get to enjoy the views with a drink in your hand. You get the perfect view of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from up close, but also some pretty sweet city views.
5. Taronga Zoo
While you do have to pay a hefty price for entry, it is worth it. What’s even better is that you get to gape at all the gorgeous animals and enjoy the scenic city views in tandem, adding a pretty unique dimension to your skyline shots.
Best lookouts for views of Sydney Harbour Bridge
Views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge admittedly tend to go hand-in-hand, but these lookouts put our world-famous bridge in the foreground.
6. Observatory Hill
Another excellent, yet relatively underrated lookout is the Observatory Hill. You can take a picnic up to the hill for some scenic city views, it’s very close to Wynyard station and takes just about 10 minutes to climb up.
7. Luna Park
One of my absolute favourite views of the glittering Sydney skyline. Walk along the waterfront from Luna Park around Milsons Point or Kirribilli and you can enjoy a variety of stunning angles. Pro tip: visit it late at night and you’ll be in for a treat.
8. Jeffreys Street, Kirribilli
If you’re after the perfect sundown from the Harbour Bridge look no further than Jeffreys Street in Kirribilli. Hot tip for photographers: keep a lookout for the puddle on the path which reflects the Harbour Bridge making for a very creative shot.
9. Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden
Another local gem, Wendy’s Secret Garden is a gorgeous green oasis and a beautiful retreat from the city- in the heart of the city. If you, like me, love a hidden garden, check out our list of local hideouts here.
10. McMahons Point
Close to Luna Park, McMahons Point offers an unhindered view of the Harbour Bridge and The Opera House. It’s also not as crowded since most people tend to visit Luna Park, so you can enjoy the views without much hindrance.
11. Sydney Tower Eye
Let’s face it, few places are hidden from the Sydney Tower Eye since it’s the highest point in the city. The observation deck offers a bird’s eye view of some of the city’s most well-known and loved structures, and on clear days, even the Blue Mountains are visible. If you haven’t already, add this to your itinerary ASAP for a different perspective on Sydney.
Even more brilliant Sydney lookout spots
Chasing views of Sydney that don’t centre on its two most iconic landmarks? We’ve got you covered with these charming lookouts.
12. Barrenjoey Lighthouse
The lookout from Barrenjoey Lighthouse remains one of the most famous views around Sydney, and for good reason. Found right in the north of Sydney, it’s a serene spot and the walk up to Palm Beach itself is lovely. Make sure to stop at The Boathouse for a cuppa and a bite after the 25-minute trek to the lighthouse.
13. Mackenzies Point, Bondi to Coogee Walk
Far be it from us to mention Bondi and leave out the famous Mackenzies Point. This lookout offers some of the best views of the iconic Bondi to Coogee walk as well as the weathered cliffs to Tamarama and Bronte beach.
14. Bondi Icebergs
If you know Sydney, you know Bondi. With white lining across the pool contrasting with the blue and green hues of the water, the Bondi Icebergs are the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the view.
15. The Cave at Bronte Beach
The Cave at Bronte Beach is a beautiful hidden spot and offers an incredible lookout. It is also surprising that the lookout has managed to remain relatively secret considering its location – only adds to the intrigue if you ask us!
16. Milk Beach, Vaucluse
Milk Beach offers an unobstructed view of the harbour and city skyline. It’s also semi-hidden which makes it all the more fun to visit. Don’t forget to carry your swimmers, the backdrop is ideal for a peaceful swim.
More spectacular lookouts in New South Wales
To the edge of Sydney and beyond, you’ll find more scenic views that show off the most captivating spots in NSW.
17. America Bay, Ku-ring-gai National Park
America Bay is a stunning little hike in Ku-ring-gai Chase and offers views for days. If you haven’t explored this little gem yet, you’re missing out. While you’re at it, we have a definitive list of national parks in and around Sydney you should definitely check out.
18. Echo Point, Blue Mountains
Also a very popular lookout spot, and for good reason, Echo Point overlooks the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley. Take a moment to enjoy the view, it’s bound to stay with you.
19. Stanwell Tops
Another gorgeous lookout, Stanwell Tops has it all and then some. A view of the gorgeous Sea Cliffe Bridge, miles of water and a lawn to sit on to admire the view.
20. Grand Pacific Drive via Sea Cliff Bridge
We saved one of the best for last. The Grand Pacific Drive is a 140-kilometre coastal drive taking you through gorgeous coastal towns like Kiama, Wollongong and Shoalhaven. It’s a gorgeous, dreamy drive and while technically not a lookout for drivers (eyes on the road!), the views from spots like Sea Cliff Bridge View Point in Clifton are worth stopping for. Don’t miss the chance to explore the world’s third-oldest national park on the drive down, either.