We love long, sunny days as much as the next person but with summer here and heatwave warnings already in place, it’s wise to find ways to stay cool. Fortunately, Sydney has a wealth of options if you’re looking to beat the heat this summer. From refreshing coastal adventures, icy dips in the pool, a day trip out of town, or a day of nature-filled fun, there’s something for everyone. Here are some delightfully cool things to do on a hot day in Sydney.
1. Cool off at the beach
This one is a no-brainer when you live in Sydney and a beloved local pastime all year round. With so many spectacular beaches to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Trek to a hidden gem away from the crowds or head to a local icon like Bondi, Manly, or Balmoral. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find beautiful white sand beaches, pristine swimming spots, and tropical beaches with fewer crowds. If you’re lucky you might even stumble upon a quiet beach with glowing, bioluminescent waters during the height of summer.
2. Check out an art exhibition
Sydney’s art and culture scene is as vibrant as the city itself. Check out the new Magritte exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales for some thought-provoking surreal artworks or step back in time with the Australian Museum’s latest show, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru. If you’re in the mood for something more offbeat, there are plenty of lesser-known galleries showcasing stellar artworks such as the Chalk Horse Art Gallery in Darlinghurst and Gaffa Gallery in the CBD.
3. Go on a breezy coastal walk
Sydney’s splendid coastline is made for exploring on foot with bright turquoise waters, sweeping harbour views, and a refreshing sea breeze to enjoy at every turn. Along the way, you’ll also stumble upon local wildlife, secret lookouts, and secluded beaches and shady nooks making it the summer adventure. From the beautiful Hermitage Foreshore Walk to the relatively lesser-known South Head Heritage Trail, check out some of our favourite coastal walks in Sydney.
4. Have an unforgettable wildlife encounter
Wildlife experiences abound in Sydney and around NSW and a lot of them keep you out of the sun. Dive with the sharks at the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium if you dare, go whale watching, discover an incredible underwater nature trail, or have a wholesome breakfast with koalas at Wildlife Sydney Zoo. Find more memorable wildlife experiences for kids and adults here.
5. Discover an immersive indoor experience
When it’s hot outside, escape to one of Sydney’s thoughtfully curated immersive experiences and get lost in an entirely different world. There’s virtual reality, interactive art and themed adventures to explore. Current offerings include the Horizon of Khufu experience that will transport you to Ancient Egypt, the delightfully colourful Sonic Neon at Luna Park with thousands of twinkling lights, the immersive Dinos Alive which will take you back to the age of dinosaurs and the soon-to-open Squid Game experience.
6. Watch a movie under the stars
Outdoor cinema season is back in full swing with pop-up screenings all over town. Grab some snacks and enjoy a classic film or the latest blockbuster on a cool evening. Some of our favourites include: Mov’in Bed Cinema, Moonlight Cinema and the free and fabulous Laneway Cinema at The Rocks.
7. Find a waterfall with a swimming hole
What’s a better way to escape the scorching sun than taking a refreshing plunge in a waterfall? These natural wonders offer cool, clear waters and lush greenery for shade making it the perfect cool down for a hot summer day. Dip your toes in the Upper Gledhill Falls or drive further away to the wonderful Nellies Glen. For more of an adventure, try to find this secret waterfall and infinity pool near Sydney.
8. Chill out at a trendy Sydney cafe
Sydney cafes are not just creative and colourful, they’re also the perfect retreat on a hot day. Take a break from the sun and work near the air conditioner, grab brunch at a waterside cafe with a cool sea breeze or unwind on a breezy outdoor patio, sipping chilled drinks. Sydney also has a number of serene cafes with bookshops if you prefer some alone time with a new read. Find some of our favourite local cafes in Sydney here.
9. Curl up with a book at a Sydney library
Sink into a cosy corner and get some respite from the summer heat at one of Sydney’s stunning libraries. Explore the historic charm of the State Library or marvel at the lush green interiors of The Woollahra Library at Double Bay — these peaceful spots are a fail-safe option on a hot day and getting lost amongst the sea of books only adds to the fun!
10. Explore a quirky museum in Sydney
When you’re done exploring all the popular art galleries in town, it’s time to venture into some of the more offbeat offerings in the city — and there are a lot. From the Museum of Human Disease to the Cake & Sugar Art Museum & Gallery, these quirky spots offer strange artefacts and a variety of oddities for you to explore, making it a fun and cool day out, with the added bonus of fewer crowds.