INSIDE: The Best Things to Do in Sydney with Kids. Updated 2024.
Sydney Australia is one of our favourite cities for kids in the world.
And there’s thousands of reasons why.
The views of the harbour are spectacular.
The National Parks are sublime.
The beaches epic. The shopping sublime. The festivals out of this world!
Let’s take a look at some much loved city adventures!
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BEST THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY WITH KIDS
Correct at time of publication on Roam the Gnome. Please check with venue for updates. We apologise in advance if there have been any changes we are unaware of. All prices in AUD, unless otherwise stated
The Sydney attractions for kids are so varied, and there’s something for everyone of all ages.
But mostly, it’s the good weather, the friendly people, and the Sydney atmosphere.
Sydney is electric! (and we love it)
RELATED: Best Australian Souvenirs you must buy for family and friends (UNIQUE!)
No.1: Sydney Park Bike Tracks for Kids
Imagine a kids’ bike track with REAL working traffic lights, road line markings, and pedestrian crossings.
A place where kids can learn to ride their bikes and scooters along with all the road rules, without fear of being run over in the street.
Kids can ride around the purpose built riding track, learning how to brake at lights and stop signs, and navigate ‘traffic’ too.
It’s the number one reason to visit the Sydney Park Bike Track at the Sydney Park Cycling Centre, the place where riders of all abilities can learn safe riding skills.
Sydney Park bicycle track is next door to Sydney Park playground. (see Playgrounds section below)
BYO bikes and helmets.
The kids bike track at Sydney Park has:
- concrete and brick pathways and roadways for kids to scooter and cycle
- a giant circular tunnel, an ‘underpass’ of bright yellow poles, traffic light ‘stop and go’ signals , road signs, cul-de-sacs, and bridges
- roundabouts and miniature concrete barriers, just like the ones you see on the sides of the road
- twists, turns, and up and down hills
Image credit: Eli Algranti
Guide to Sydney Park Bike Track St Peters.
It also has:
- an imaginative play area with a pretend shop-front, and refuelling station
- a bike pump
- a giant undercover riding area (lessons are held here too – find out more here)
- barbecue facilities and picnic areas alongside the track
Image credit: Eli Algranti
Sydney Park Cycling Centre
The Sydney Park cycle centre was built with the community in mind.
The creators of one of Sydney’s best bike tracks worked with the local community, including local children and park users, to design and build the blueprint for this innovative bike park.
It’s all lovingly designed with eye-catching sculptures amongst the bush habitat of shrubs and greenery.
It’s the perfect bike track in Sydney for beginners especially.
FREE Balance Bike Courses at Sydney Park Cycle Centre
Free Balance Bike Clinics run from 11am until 3pm every Saturday.
No need to book, just turn up and register with the instructors at the Sydney Park Cycling Centre.
Balance bikes and helmets are provided.
More bike riding workshop clinics are held during school holidays.
Please email Bikewise on [email protected] for details of upcoming clinics.
Courses are run by BikeWise, the current provider of Bike Courses for the City of Sydney.
Where to eat at Sydney Park St Peters?
The nearest Takeaway Coffee can be found at Sydney Park Kiosk, behind the Sydney Park playground.
It’s open 7am to 4pm, Monday to Sunday.
Fun Fact: The Bike Track is located at the crossroads of Alexandria, Erskineville, and St Peters so locals call it by one of the three names! Your guess which one is as good as ours.
Sydney Park Cycle Centre Location, Entry Fees and Opening Hours
Address: Sydney Park Bike Track is at 410-416 Sydney Park Road, Alexandria
Telephone: 02 9265 9333
Opening Hours: Dawn to Dusk
How to get to Sydney Park Alexandria
By Train: St Peters train station is within walking distance.
By Bus:
- Bus route 370 stops at Sydney Park Road, near Mitchell Road, Alexandria.
- Bus route 308 stops at Mitchell Road, near Coulsen Street, Erskineville.
- Bus route 422 stops at King Street, near Concord Street, St Peters.
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Sydney Park Parking
The Sydney Park bike track is next to the car park on Sydney Park Road (opposite Mitchell Road)
Sydney Park Map
No.2: Brightmore Reserve Bike Track for kids
Brightmore Reserve bicycle track is another top Sydney find.
Not only is it a bike track, there’s plenty of scope for imaginative play too.
AND giant trees to climb when they’ve had enough bike riding!
This kids bike park in Cremorne Sydney is surrounded by grassy fields, shaded lunch tables, and LOTS of open space.
Bring a picnic.
Brightmore Reserve Bike Track Cremorne
There’s tonnes of fun at this North Sydney bike park road system.
The highlight are the ring-road bike paths for kids, complete with dual lanes, passing lanes, pedestrian crossings, street signs, and roundabouts!
At this cycle playground, you’ll also find:
- a petrol station, with fuel bowsers and hand-held fuel pumps
- a “mini-mart shop window” next to the petrol station
More at this Bicycle playground
- a themed imaginative play area with a sandstone “set of shops” with a bakery and cafe
- an interactive fire engine and ambulance vehicles
- a small climbing frame net
There’s even parking bays for the kids to park their bikes!
Plus, this is a fully fenced playground in Sydney for kids.
There’s also a fully-fenced play area with swings, slide and spring rocker in the middle of the scooter playground area.
You can definitely spend a few enjoyable hours at this kids bike track/bicycle playground. It’s the perfect spot to practice bike riding with toddlers and preschoolers too.
Views from Primrose Park carpark opposite Brightmore Reserve
Sydney Bike Track Location, Opening Hours & Entry Fees
Address: Brightmore Reserve is Young St, Cremorne NSW 2090
Telephone: Call Council on (02) 9936 8100
How to get to Brightmore Reserve Sydney Park
By Bus:
- From Town Hall station, catch bus 430 towards Taronga Zoo
- Disembark at Neutral Bay Junction, on Military Road
- Walk 12 minutes from Military Road to Brightmore Reserve
Other buses also arrive at Neutral Bay Junction.
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Brightmore Reserve Parking
There’s plenty of free parking onsite in the carpark.
Facilities at Brightmore Park Cremorne
Toilets: Yes, modern clean toilets next to the playground
BBQ facilities & picnic tables : Yes
Plus when the kids get tired of riding bikes and scooters around the miniature roads, there are trees to climb, and playground equipment to clamber over.
Not far from Tunks Park playground, so combine the two for an adventurous day out. (See PLAYGROUNDS section below)
Primrose Park Sydney
Primrose Park sports grounds are across the road from the Brightmore Reserve car park on Grafton Street (off Young Street), Cremorne. Limited on-street parking is also available. Primrose Park is a 10 minute walk from Military Road where there are numerous bus stops.
Primrose Park has:
- four tennis courts (court hire 9908 2366)
- two football sports fields, hockey field
- four cricket fields and nets
- change rooms
- car park
- public toilets
- hockey and tennis club houses
- an art and craft centre
- bush pathways
- seating and timed lights.
Historical items and sites including Aboriginal rock art indicate that Primrose Park was frequented by the Cammeraygal people.
No.2: Art Deco Cinema Cremorne
See a movie at this retro cinema – The Hayden Orpheum in Cremorne
Bring money for the candy bar so you can buy all the jaffas.
No.3: See a Musical at Capitol Theatre Sydney
Take the kids to see a musical show at the heritage-listed Capitol Theatre in Sydney.
Our last visit, we watched Aladdin, the most sumptuous stage production we’ve ever been lucky enough to watch!
We were also lucky enough to see the musical Cats, with Delta Goodrem in the title role.
No.4: Circular Quay
Head down to Circular Quay to see the harbour ferries, and the street entertainers!
(If you are headed that way, you can catch a Sydney ferry from here to Taronga Zoo. )
Visiting Circular Quay is one of the best free kids activities in Sydney too.
All you need is an ice cream treat!
No.5: Luna Park
There’s lots of fun rides & attractions for kids here.
Don’t miss the old school wooden slides, and carnival hall!
It’s unchanged since the 1950’s, and LOADS of fun!
No.6: Darling Harbour
One of Sydney’s most popular precinct for families, with a top notch playground (Tumbalong Park), water splash pad, children’s theatre, plus loads of family friendly restaurants and cafes.
Darling Harbour celebration space and leisure complex is home to Madame Tussauds, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, and WildLife Sydney too. Learn about native Australian wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, snakes, reptiles, and Australian ocean life here.
(These animal zoos are two of the best things to do with toddlers in Sydney)
Chinatown Sydney is just a few minutes walk away. Check out Paddy’s Market and the Chinese Garden of Friendship there too.
The famous Sydney pie shop, Harry’s Cafe de Wheels at Darling Harbour can be found here too.
The Sydney Powerhouse Museum is a hop skip and a jump away also, perfect for older kids.
WHERE TO SHOP IN SYDNEY FOR SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS
No.1 Best Australian Food Gifts
First, head to either Coles or Woolworths supermarkets and grab all the delicious Australian food products such as TimTams, caramelised onion chutneys, Health Lab balls (Holy Hazelnut – don’t miss it) and more.
Everyone loves an Australian food gift. Why wouldn’t you?
READ DETAILS: BEST Australian Food gifts for family, friends, & foodies
N0.2: Chinatown Sydney
Wander the streets of Chinatown to find all kinds of cute, kawaii stuff – stationery, ugg boots, clothes.
It’s a treasure trove!
No.3: Regent’s Place Sydney
This is MY FAVOURITE PLACE TO SHOP in Sydney.
But maybe that’s because Oh Matcha is in the building, along with Uncle Tetsu’s Japanese cheesecakes.
whatever the reason, do stop by.
It’s a mini-Japan in the centre of Sydney.
No.4: QVB Building
Don’t miss this beautiful iconic Sydney building, even if it’s just to window shop.
The stores inside are some of the world’s best, and the window displays and quaint feel of the place makes it magical.
BEST MARKETS IN SYDNEY
No.1: Paddy’s Markets
Right smack bang in the centre of Chinatown, you’ll find this fun market.
It’s FULL of cheap and cheerful goods, but it’s fun for a wander.
Do stop and get a shoulder massage from one of the Chinese massage therapists. Thank me later.
WHERE TO EAT IN SYDNEY WITH KIDS
No.1: Emperor Puffs Sydney
If you are visiting Chinatown, join the queue for mouth-watering hot Cream Puffs at Emperor’s Garden Sydney
Be sure to eat them while they are HOT!
Repeat.
Do not miss this eating experience.
No.2: Sofitel Sydney High Tea
Looking for high tea in Sydney?
There’s themed extravaganzas for High Tea at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth hotel for groups and families too.
The guide also includes a list of MORE of the best high teas in Sydney, and unique high tea experiences too.
BEST PLAYGROUNDS IN SYDNEY FOR KIDS
Looking for the best Sydney playgrounds for kids?
Sydney’s best playgrounds are innovative, and challenging for the kids.
Some of them have award winning designs, and are bright and colourful pieces of art as much as they are a play space for children.
Check out Top 10 Sydney Playgrounds in our guide below, including a couple of Sydney water playgrounds.
No.1: Enmore Park Sydney
If your kids are SPACE fanatics, rate Elon Musk as their hero, and have words such as Space X, Falcon Heavy, and Falcon 9 in their vocabulary, it’s time to visit the Rocket Ship imaginary playground at Enmore Park Marrickville.
Kids can CLIMB the Rocket Ship!
Enmore Park Marrickville is THE playground in Sydney for wannabe astronauts!
There’s not many of these retro style rocket ship playgrounds left anywhere in Australia, so jump on it.
Who knows where their imaginations will take them?
Blast Off at Enmore Park Playground!
Enmore Park in Marrickville is a small but sweet playground, perfect for toddlers and young kids.
Enmore Park Playground’s centrepiece is the very cool retro red and yellow rocket ship.
Kids can safely climb ladders all the way to the TOP!
And there’s two slides opposite each other on the bottom level.
Plus:
- a set of swings
- monkey bars
- a flying fox
- a see saw
- climbing nets
- a circular spinner
It’s one of the best picnic spots in Sydney inner west.
Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre (Enmore Park Pool)
Right next to the Enmore Park playground, just 100 metres walk away, you’ll find the Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre.
The Annette Kellerman Enmore Park swimming pool has:
- a cute toddler splash pool with fountains for the smaller kids,
- plus there’s a lap pool,
- a program pool,
- a fully equipped gym onsite,
- a creche (helpful for mums who want to get back into shape), and
- a kid-friendly cafe next door.
Bring swimmers and towels for a dip in the Annette Kellerman pool next door too.
Where to eat at Enmore Park in Sydney?
Nearest takeaway coffee joint can be found at Kellermans cafe, next to the pool.
Kellermans Cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating to suit any day.
Plus, loads of healthy yummy foods for every appetite.
Grab a loyalty card and get every 10th coffee FREE!
Address: Enmore Park is located at Enmore Road and Black Street, Marrickville.
Telephone:(02) 9335 2222
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Toilets: Yes, including baby change table near the Kellerman cafe during daylight hours.
Enclosed: No
Picnic tables: Yes
Electric BBQs: Yes
Dogs: Yes. Off-leash dog exercise area within designated areas
How to get to Enmore Park Marrickville
By train:
- The closest railway station to Enmore is St Peters Station, on the Bankstown Line, approximately 1km, or around 15 minutes walk from AKAC.
- Two stations are located approximately 1.2km from Enmore Park and the Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre – Sydenham Station, on the Bankstown and Illawarra lines and Newtown Station, on the Inner West line but these stations are not currently accessible.
By foot: The playground is a 5 minute walk from Marrickville Metro shopping centre and is a 10-15 minute walk from Enmore Road and King Street shopping strips.
By bus: Click here for bus routes
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Enmore Parking
On street parking bays available along Victoria Road and Llewellyn street, or try the side streets. Weekends can be busy.
Hot tip: Watch a movie in style at Sydney’s BEST ART DECO CINEMA the Orpheum Cremorne cinema (just 5 minutes from here)
Image credit: Regal Innovations
No.2: Prince Alfred Park playground
There’s a compelling and quite unbelievable story behind the design of this playground, about an event that happened at the turn of the century .
Oh to have lived in 1870!
This was the year that British Aeronaut Thomas Gale created a great spectacle for Sydneysiders, floating a HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT from Prince Alfred Park across to Redfern and Waterloo.
Dangerous stunts like this gas-filled balloon flight were all the rage – mishaps were part of the intrigue – and a successful flight led to notoriety and acclaim.
Which is the reason why the Prince Alfred Park Playground pays homage to this story with themed play equipment.
The story is incredible, outrageous, and LOTS of fun!
As well as the Prince Alfred toddler playground, around the corner, find HEAPS MORE playground equipment and sports courts for kids of all ages, including this epic slippery dip.
The adorable playground next to the Prince Alfred Park pool entrance features elegant hand-crafted play equipment including a bright yellow air balloon, centre stage.
Next to it, a model dinghy – the Galatea – floats on imaginary waters.
The Galatea was the boat that brought the park’s namesake Prince Alfred to Australia in 1867.
MORE Prince Alfred Park History!
The sweetest elephant slide you’ve ever seen, complete with climbable yellow ladders, is to the left of the balloon.
How does the curious story of an elephant fit in the picture, you might ask? (as we did).
It seems ol’ Prince Alfred could not live without his pet elephant, and brought his pet elephant to Australia on a later trip!
The Prince Alfred Park Sydney Redesign
The Prince Alfred Park, along with the Prince Alfred Park playground, underwent a gigantic award-winning redesign, the first in 50 years, back in 2011.
The seven-hectare park redesign created much-needed open space and recreational facilities for Surry Hills and Redfern.
Play Equipment at Prince Alfred Park Surry Hills
The redesign now includes:
- a giant slide, with recycled rubber soft fall surrounds and rubber ‘stones’ to help on the climb back up
- four sets of swings (no more squabbling over who gets first turn!)
- a wonderful bike-riding track for kids along this path
Picnics, Dogs & Exercising at Prince Alfred Park in Sydney
Bring your ball to play on the two Prince Alfred Park basketball courts.
There’s new barbecue and picnic areas with custom-designed tables and seating, surrounded by hundreds of new rainforest species and succulent trees and plants
Keen movers and shakers will love the challenge of the 1km exercise circuit with three fitness stations along an accessible path for:
- joggers
- walkers
- prams and
- wheelchairs
Local Dog lovers also have access to an off-leash area for dogs.
The Prince Alfred Park tennis courts have FIVE tennis courts for the public to use, made of Plexicushion.
This is the same material used at Flinders Park, the home of the Australian Open.
The court upgrade means Prince Alfred Park Tennis courts can now host professional competitions and exhibitions.
Prince Alfred Playground Location, Opening Hours and Entry fees
Address: Prince Alfred Park Sydney city playground is located at Chalmers St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Surry Hills, NSW
Phone: 02 9265 9333
Website: Click here
Prince Alfred playground opening Hours: 24 hours
Toilets: Yes, outside the pool.
How to get to Prince Alfred Park in Surry Hills
By Bus:
- There are several buses that stop next to or are in close distance from Prince Alfred Park Pool.
- These include the M20, M50 and 353 routes that travel along Chalmers Street towards the CBD which stop within 50 metres of the entrance to the centre.
- There are several buses that stop within 5 minutes from the centre on Elizabeth Street and within 10 minutes from Railway Square travelling both towards and away from the CBD.
By Train: The closest train stations is Central Station which is 350 metres away.
To plan your trip, visit Transport NSW or call 131 500.
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Prince Alfred Park Parking
- There is no on-site dedicated parking at Prince Alfred Park.
- There are paid parking areas along Chalmers Street when bus lanes are not in operation, please check signs for timings.
- There is also a mix of 1 hour street parking and paid 2 hour stare parking within 5 minutes’ walk of the centre on surrounding streets. This can be quite limited and time may be needed to find a suitable parking spot.
And when you tire of playing, stop by the Prince Alfred Park Swimming Pool complex next door.
Heads up – Prince Alfred Park public pool is heated.
Spot the giant yellow umbrellas, and you’ve found it!
There’s the Whisk and Paddle Cafe at the pool to grab a takeaway coffee and snacks too.
Read all about it under WATER ADVENTURES below.
No.3: Wulaba Playground Waterloo
Whizz down the gigantic slide at Wulaba Park playground in Waterloo Sydney
This is a hidden gem, tucked away in the centre of a new-ish housing development, known only to locals and few others.
We call this our Jack-in-the-box playground because it’s hidden amongst tall apartment buildings, and invisible to the eye, until it suddenly pops out at you!
Designed by Sydney artist Nuha Saad in conjunction with landscape architects, this multi-level playground in a kaleideoscope of rainbow colour is like a real-life Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory.
The only thing missing is the Chocolate River!
Brightly coloured, and with ALL the facilities you need close by, including:
- toilets
- picnic tables and
- bbqs
Wulaba Park Waterloo is a big surprise!
There’s so much to do, and all the facilities are there too.
Except shade.
There’s not much of that.
It’s location means it does get hot, as there’s few cooling breezes.
Hot tip: BYO hats, sunscreen and lots of cold water.
Bring your hats and sunscreen. It’s hot.
Choose a cloudy overcast day, or try visiting in Autumn or Spring.
This is NOT a park playground to visit in the full Summer sun.
Giant Slide at Wulaba Playground!
The centrepiece of the Wulaba Park Playground IS the colossal slippery dip for the adventurers.
Whizz down the best Gigantic Slide at WULABA PARK Playground.
But first you have to climb up.
That takes a bit of effort, squeezing your body into tiny rainbow-hued stepped spaces as you wind your way up the central climbing tower, via nets.
It’s worth it in the end.
What kid, big or small, wouldn’t want to have a turn on that monster sized slide?
(Smaller kids might have to ride on mum or dad’s lap. It’s a long way up, and a long way down.)
Play equipment at Wulaba Park Sydney
As well as the jumbo slide, you’ll find a variety of climbing nets – both upright nets, and ones on a diagonal
- a footbridge
- swings including a spider web swing
- recycled rubber soft fall underfoot
- concrete balancing platforms for parkour-loving kids
- concrete tunnels (the perfect rest zone when you are puffed out)
- a handball court
- a table tennis court
What does Wulaba mean?
Wulaba is an Aboriginal word of the Gadigal people, meaning ‘rock wallaby’.
Rock wallabies were once a regular sight around Waterloo, which was home to the largest swamp in the district until it was replaced with development in the early 20th century.
Wulaba Park BBQs
There’s multiple FREE bbq’s, picnic tables, and benches
BYO snacks and a picnic lunch.
Where to eat at Wulaba Playground Green Square
The nearest place to buy takeaway coffee is from the East Village shopping centre across the road.
Wulaba Playground Location, Opening hours and Entry Fees
Address: 54–60 O’Dea Avenue, on the corner O’Dea Ave & Amelia Street, Waterloo NSW 2017
Telephone: 02 9265 9333
Opening Hours: 24 hours
How to get to Wulaba Park
Wulaba Park is close to the Royal Randwick Racecourse, Moore Park Golf Course, and Moore Park, in the Eastern suburbs near Anzac Parade.
By Train: Nearest train station is Green Square.
By Bus: Buses stop along O’dea Avenue. From the CBD, catch either the 304, 320, or 343 towards Moore Park.
By Car: Click here for google map directions.
Wulaba Park Parking
There are a select few car parks in Green Square itself. On the day we visited, there was only one car there. Make this your first try.
If you run out of luck, street parking in the surrounding area is your other option.
Try parking on Sam Sing street (2 hour limit, 8am – 6pm).
There are other car parks available on Archibald Ave also.
More Wulaba Park Sydney facilities
Toilets:
- Yes, a modern self-cleaning toilet block (yay to the clever architects who included this!)
- Baby change table on site.
BBQS: Yes
Enclosed: Not gated, but off the main road
No.4: Tunks Park playground
Tunks Park playground is another hidden secret in Sydney
If you and your family like to go bushwalking with kids in Sydney, this is a must do.
There’s two popular bushwalking tracks suitable for kids nearby.
It’s hard to believe that this playground surrounded by bushland is so close to the city.
It’s another hidden secret in Sydney.
Kids love:
- the spider web climbing net
- the timber fort with its’ tunnel slide, wobbly walking bridge, and lookout zone with views into local bushland
- the stand-up seesaw (a new find!)
- running around the maze of pathways and platforms to chase one another
Tunks Park Toddler Playground
Toddlers and preschoolers will also love:
- the double trouble digging patch with not one but TWO sit-on excavators in the ‘gravel pit’
- the bank of swings!
There’s a second miniature cubby zone with moveable pieces including:
- a giant sized abacus
- stepped platforms
- a life-size noughts and crosses game
- a clock with interactive hands, and
- a small slide
Tunks Park Cammeray
This playground is semi-fenced with an ‘entry gate’
It’s not a child-safe pool fence with a latch, but there is a fence that would buy you a minute or two if they ran towards the road.
Mortlock Reserve, a lovely picnic area next to the water, is further down the hill with a huge area of free parking available.
Fun Fact: The park was named after William Tunks, the first Mayor of St Leonards, in office from 1867 until 1883.
Tunks Park Boat Ramp
The boat ramp is down the hill on Brothers Ave also.
The ramp is in good condition, with easy ramp access to the water for a quick trip to the harbour or Manly.
North Sydney council has ensured there is plenty of car and trailer parking nearby, as this is the main boat facility in the area, but no toilet facilities except at the cricket ground.
Access is decent, except when there’s soccer on at the Tunks Park sports field.
BYO hose to wash down the boat using the onsite tap.
Tunks Park Fishing
There’s fish cleaning and fish filleting tables next to the boat harbour ramp.
Tunks Park Bush Walk
Flat Rock Gully walking track is the broad name for the two main bushwalks in the area.
Tunks Park walking tracks include
- Wilksch’s Walk travels along the northern face of the Gully
- Dawson Street Track travels along the southern side, past sandstone retaining walls
Walk over the century-old suspension bridge and spot the overhead sewerage viaduct as you wander the area too.
Address: Brothers Avenue, Cammeray NSW 2062
How to get to Tunks Park North Sydney
By Bus: Buses 202, 207, 267 will bring you from the CBD to Tunks Park via Miller Street, before the Boulevard. It’s an 8 minute walk from there to the park. (550 metres)
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Tunks Park parking
There is on-street parking along Brothers Avenue right next to the playground
Toilets: Toilets are located near the sports fields.
No.5: Blaxland Riverside Park Sydney NSW
Do not miss this outrageously good Sydney park, near Sydney Olympic Park, but do not go in the heat of the day.
Visit morning or mid afternoon to avoid the heat of the blazing sun, as there’s little shade here and the slides sizzle!
And the kids will get hot from all the climbing of:
- the timber fort
- the giant nets
- the boulder walls
- the parkour swings and climbing frames
Hot tip: Bring swimmers, towels and a change of clothes so kids can enjoy the giant sized water playground here too.
Guide to Blaxland Riverside Park Playground
There’s SO much to do, and the playground is spread over such a huge area (three hectares!) that it never feels busy or overwhelmed by crowds.
Upon arriving and finding a park, you’ll see this sign.
Follow the pathway towards the park.
It’s a bit of a hike, so it’s wise to bring a stroller or one of those wheeled wagons to carry the younger kids and any excess baggage!
The Blaxland Riverside playground is spread wide apart, with different sections.
View from the carpark
To the left, as you wander in, you’ll see a big grassy mound.
Sydney Olympic Park mandala spiral
The kids loved running up this spiral mandala to the top, and back down again.
Next up, you’ll spy this giant climbing net under shade sails.
The sails are necessary.
The heat blazes down.
Do bring sun-safe shirts, wide brimmed hats, and lots of sunscreen.
Giant Treehouse Fort
There’s no stopping the kids once they spy this 5-storey fortress.
The net bridge is one way in.
There’s rope staircases to climb…
And platforms to look out from!
Kids will spy the giant yellow flags.
Head that direction.
Walk past the water park area (we’ll come back to that) to find a whole other world of play equipment
Try the giant double zip line flying fox.
Take turns on the different swings and parkour equipment
Hidden deep inside both sides of the moulded mountains are a few giant silver tunnel slides.
Watch out!
On a sunny day, they are likely to be HOT!
The Race is on.
Double and triple races coming your way.
Boulder Walls
The best bit is that the way up to the top of the slides is via rock wall climb.
A few go’s, and the kids (and adults) are knackered!
Kids love this giant spinning disk too.
Hot tip: Grab yourself a spot under one of the shaded umbrellas early in the morning, so the kids have a home base to return to.
Net Scramble
After the slides, kids head straight to the net maze.
Hooray for this cool Sydney park, arguably the biggest playground in Sydney.
This place is FULL of physical challenges for all ages!
Blaxland Riverside Park water play
The Sydney water playground is a big hit with kids.
And VERY popular with locals.
It’s Sydney’s largest water park so visitors come from all over the city to play.
Blaxland Riverside Park water playground opening hours
The Blaxland Park water playground opening hours are from 10am to 4pm.
Expect it to be busy on a hot day.
But never too busy that you can’t join in the fun too.
The Jamieson water park is tops!
Take a seat in the water play area, like Ned.
Fun Tip: Spouts!
One of the best things to do is to sit on the water park walls and WAIT for the spouts to recommence after a rest.
It’s rib-tickling hilarity!
Once the water starts again, you and the kids won’t be going anywhere fast.
Blaxland Riverside Park BBQ
There’s lots of spots to pull up a seat and relax within view of the kids.
Look out for FREE gas and electric bbq’s on your travels.
Blaxland Riverside Park cafe
The Blaxland Riverside reserve has a Blaxland Riverside Park kiosk on site.
Pick up a takeaway coffee or chai on the go. Order hot food including pies, sausage rolls, and hot chips. Sandwiches and cold drinks too.
There’s some undercover seating to eat your goodies.
When the kids are done, grab an ice cream for the drive home from Blaxland Park Homebush.
There’s also the Newington Armory Wharf Cafe not far away.
Blaxland Riverside Park Bike Hire
Hire a bike from the historic Gate House in the Armory and you and the family can explore the riverside walking trail that runs alongside the Parramatta River.
Book ahead in the school holidays to be on the safe side.
Blaxland Park Silverwater – Location, Opening Hours, Entry Fees
Blaxland Riverside park address: Jamieson St, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127
Website: Click here
Blaxland Riverside Park opening hours
- 6am to 5pm
- 7 days a week
What time does Blaxland Riverside Park close?
Blaxland Riverside Park closing time is 5pm
Blaxland River Park entry fees
- FREE to enter!
How to get to Blaxland Riverside Park Homebush
By Car: Click here for directions to this Sydney Olympic Park location.
NB: Taking a car is the most convenient way to this Sydney playground.,
By Bus:
- Catch the M52 or 520 bus from Town Hall House, Druitt St, Stand L
- Arrives at Betty Cuthbert Ave Shops, Victoria Rd.
- Catch a taxi for the final 3km to the park.
- Services depart every 10 minutes, and operate every day.
- Allow 45 minutes to an hour for the journey
By ferry:
- Catch the direct ferry departing from Barangaroo, Wharf 1, Side B.
- Arrives at Sydney Olympic Park Wharf, Side A.
- Services depart every 30 minutes, and operate every day.
- Allow 45 minutes to an hour for the journey
Blaxland Riverside Park parking
- Limited parking – arrive early
- 3 hour parking restrictions apply
No.6: Fairfield Adventure Park
The GIANT slide structure at the centre of this Sydney playground is the drawcard but there’s plenty more stuff to do too.
Including:
- slippery slides
- sand diggers
- climbing mounds
Hot tip: The Fairfield Park Obstacle Course is at the same location. Don’t miss it.
No.7: Pierre de Coubertin Park
This cute little playground is a surprise find, but worth your time if you are in the vicinity.
Especially as it’s one of the less crowded parks in Sydney.
Check it out.
No.8: Darling Harbour Playground Sydney CBD
Darling Harbour children’s playground in Darling Quarter near Chinatown is the best Sydney CBD playground for kids!
Be warned that this central Sydney playground gets very, very, very busy from around 10am until around 2.30pm, and it’s not fenced so it can be a stressful playground for parents to visit with wild toddlers who go in random directions.
Plan your visit to Tumbalong Park playground for early morning, or from mid afternoon to miss the bulk of the crowds.
There’s also a cool looking concrete water park here, which is great fun for the kids.
Don’t think you can visit this city playground, and keep them dry for activities later in the day.
It is IMPOSSIBLE.
Hot tip: Bring a change of clothes and a large towel so kids can play in the water playground.
No.9: Domain Creek Playground Parramatta
A delightful find on the outskirts of Sydney, Domain Creek playground in Westmead is set over a huge area in Parramatta Park, the biggest of the parks in Parramatta.
There’s bike paths, play areas, an outdoor theatre, a flying fox, and huge slides all set within gorgeous Sydney bushland.
Find it at Park Ave & Park Parade, Westmead
No.10: Holroyd Gardens Merrylands
This popular Merrylands park for weddings and gatherings has a giant size fort with slides.
Holroyd playground in Merrylands is suitable for both big and little kids, as there’s a separate toddler playground too.
Find it at Pitt St &, Walpole St, Merrylands.
BEST SYDNEY WATER PLAYGROUNDS
No.1: James Ruse Reserve Water Playground
One of the best water activities Sydney has to offer for kids young and old.
This Sydney water playground is very popular in the summer months, so go early.
Find a cool kids playground area next to the water zone too.
There’s limited parking nearby.
Go early.
No.2: Pirrama Park playground
Pirrama Park playground has some of Sydney’s best views of the water, so if you can’t quite afford property around the area, at least you can pretend you are a resident for a while.
This Sydney playground is just up the road from the Star Casino.
A hidden treasure, not far from the CBD, it has a GIANT sand pit water course.
BYO sand pit toys – buckets, spades, etc.
Bring your towels, swimmers and a change of clothes – one of Sydney’s best FREE splash pads can be found here too.
Sustainability at Pirrama Park Playground Sydney
Sustainable features of the park include:
- solar panels
- energy efficient lighting and
- timber decking made from recycled materials.
Sitting directly below the elegant homes and apartments of Pyrmont, the playground has:
- arch tunnels to walk through
- roped climbing equipment
- slides and turrets
- a modern-day roundabout spinner (wheelchair friendly), and
- multiple swings
Pirrama Park Water Park
The Whale water park at Pirrama Park in Sydney has:
- a whale-shaped splashpad with spouting water pumps for kids to run through and around
- a gigantic sandpit and water course with pump.
The Pyrmont Park water park has been designed with rain water capture and re-use in mind.
What to bring to Pyrmont Water Park
No matter the weather, there’s little chance of keeping the kids out but there’s a breeze off the water that makes it feel colder than it is.
Remember to bring at least one change of dry clothes, and a few fluffy towels when you visit Pirrama Park water play area, so you can wrap them up and warm them up quickly.
Bring your own sandtoys, plastic boats, and diggers for the sand course.
Hot tip: How to turn on the water
There’s a secret to switching on the water.
Keep an eye out for the button saying “Press Here”.
If you can’t see it, ask a local!
(It’s hidden in plain sight.)
Pyrmont Park pathways
Bring the bikes and scooters too.
There’s lovely walkways to cruise along with views of the CBD and harbour.
If you are in Sydney and looking to escape the shops and busy tourist sights, make your way here.
It’s a busy but tranquil environment for those down-time moments you need when you travel with kids.
Parking is easy, and the playground is gated from the road.
Unfortunately, there’s no fence to stop kids getting to the water of the bay though.
(Keep a very close eye on toddlers and young kids.)
But at least the kids can’t get run over.
Pirrama Park History – What does Pirrama mean?
Pirrama Park honours the first Australians who lived in the area.
It means ‘ rocking stone ’ in the Gadigal language.
Pyrmont sandstone has been extracted from the Pyrmont Peninsula since the 1950’s.
Known as ‘yellow block’ because of it’s warm ochre colour, it’s renowned for it’s durability, flawlessness and fine texture.
It can be carved in any direction.
This sandstone has been used to construct MOST of the significant buildings in Sydney in the 19th century, including the General Post Office and the Art Gallery of NSW.
Where does the Pyrmont sandstone come from?
The sandstone used in the Pirrama Park Playground has been returned to it’s original home.
This stone was originally used in construction of the Pyrmont Bridge (built in 1902) and restored to the area when the stone was removed to make way for the Western Distributor Freeway.
(Source: Historical references from signage on site.)
There’s plenty of picnic tables and FREE bbq’s.
BYO picnic or bbq foods, and go early on weekends and during school holidays to get a table.
There’s extensive seating around the playground for weary mums and dads and grandparents, LOTS of undercover shade, and room to move.
It’s a lovely spot close to Sydney city for a family gathering.
Image credit: John Digiorgio
Pirrama Park Cafe
The closest cafe to the playground at Pyrmont is Jack Bodice (Call Me Harris) cafe.
Service is friendly, the menu extensive, and the coffee good to go.
Try the fluffy ricotta pancakes with blueberry compote, vanilla ricotta and organic maple from their all day breakfast menu!
Or if you are hungry, their big breakfast of eggs and bacon combines either poached, scrambled or fried eggs, with bacon, and vine tomatoes on sourdough is enough to keep you going all day long.
Kids and parents will find their mouth watering over the burgers, or the popcorn chicken.
Find it at 20 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont.
Open 8am to 3pm.
Pirrama Park playground Location, Entry fees and Opening hours
Address: 20 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Telephone: 02 9265 9333
Website: Click here
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours
- Open 24 hours.
- FREE entry!
View from the gate!
How to get to Pirrama Park Pyrmont
Pirrama Pyrmont Bay park is a short stroll or bike down from The Star Casino.
By Bus: To reach the park by public transport, catch the 443 bus, or the 389 bus. Pirrama Park is located at the end of Harris Street.
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Pirrama Park Parking
Parking is available along the street right outside the playground.
Public toilets: clean toilets on site
No.3: Francis Park Blacktown
Francis Park is one of the best playgrounds in Western Sydney, next to the Groundskeeper Cafe.
Check out the cleverly designed water play area, where kids can spend hours moving water from place to place via an elaborate system of troughs, trays, and concrete mandalas.
On hot days, this is the spot for kids to run through and around the water sprinklers until they are soaking wet.
BEST PARKS IN SYDNEY FOR KIDS WHO LOVE NATURE PLAY
No.1: Lizard Log playground at Lizard Log park
Looking for nature playgrounds in Sydney?
Lizard Log nature playground in Sydney is the answer.
It’s definitely a playground with a difference, so worth the visit if you are bored with the norm.
Think timber logs for climbing, fallen tree trunks, a GIANT sandpit play space, and lots of green space, perfect for imaginative play.
Plus picnic areas, and off street parking
No.2: Wild Play Centennial Park
This award winning design of this playground makes it a MUST DO.
The fact that the teepees, cubby houses, and knotted rope bridge walkways are intertwined within a nature play bushland is icing on the cake.
Bring swimmers and towels, as it has a top water play area too!
Hot tip: There’s another Ian Potter Children’s Garden in Melbourne central!
No.3: Sydney Park playground
Where can you find a Sydney Park with its’ own HUMAN SUN DIAL?
A Sydney playground that pops up in amongst Sydney’s natural bush habitat?
A Sydney playground that is coloured ochre, brick red, and clay, designed to match the history and heritage of the area?
That would be Sydney Park St Peters.
(Or sometimes called Sydney Park Alexandria, as it sits along the borders of Alexandria, Newtown and Erskineville.)
Enjoy a day out at Sydney Park playground near the heritage chimney stacks.
Sydney Park Alexandria NSW
Sydney Park Adventure Playground can be found behind the iconic Brick Kilns along King Street, and opposite St Peters train station so it’s easily accessible for those in cars and by public transport.
The size of the open space area of the nature playground, combined with the accessibility of a playground so close to the city, is quite something.
On one side of the playground, find:
- Two matching pyramid climbing nets
- A modern ‘spinner’ wheel
- Four metal slides in varying lengths and heights (The biggest one is inscribed with the inspirational message of ‘zoom off, zoom off’!)
- Cute wombat sculptures to continue the bush habitat theme
- A fun footbridge to cross, with views of the Brick Kilns behind
- Giant boulder walls to climb up
- Recycled rubber soft fall pathways throughout native sedge plants
Swings galore
- The biggest row of swings we’ve ever seen!
- A raised sand pit lounge, with multiple areas to dig and play
A-Z braille trail
Kids can have fun following the braille trail, practicing sign language gestures as they go.
Human Sundial at St Peters Sydney Park
The fabulous HUMAN SUNDIAL allows kids to tell the time by the position of their shadow!
Instructions for the Human Sundial at Sydney Park
Look out for the Human Sundial instructions on the pillar in the centre.
If it’s a sunny day, see if you can work out the time yourselves without taking a peek at your watch.
Sydney Park Cafe
The nearest Takeaway Coffee can be found on site about 25 metres away behind the sandpit area of the playground.
The Sydney Park Kiosk is open from 7am to 4pm, 7 days.
Their menu features gourmet snacks, salads, kids toasties in an al fresco-dining environment.
Yes, there’s BBQs, plus picnic tables and bench seating throughout.
Where is Sydney Park? Location, Entry fees & Opening hours
Address: 416 Sydney Park Rd, Alexandria NSW 2015
Telephone: (02) 9265 9333
Opening Hours: 24 hours
How to get to Sydney Park playground
By Train: St Peters Station is across the road from the playground, a 5 minute walk.
By Bus:
- Bus route 370 stops at Sydney Park Road, near Mitchell Road, Alexandria.
- Bus route 308 stops at Mitchell Road, near Coulsen Street, Erskineville.
- Bus route 422 stops at King Street, near Concord Street, St Peters.
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Sydney Park Parking
Sydney park car park is located on Barwon Park Road (nearest to playground and brick kilns) as you turn left off Sydney Park road.
There’s a second carpark on Sydney Park Road (nearest to cycling centre).
Parking at Sydney Park adventure park is free. There is a four hour limit Monday to Friday.
Public Toilets: Yes, toilets on site.
Suitable for bikes and scooters: Yes, there are pathways around the park to use.
No.4: Centennial Park Playground
If your kids love to ride AND play, this is the spot.
Natural bushland surrounds, a popular bike track, AND shaded playgrounds in the heart of the city make this a great day out.
MORE OF THE BEST SYDNEY PLAYGROUNDS FOR ALL ABILITIES
No.1: Livvi’s Place Playground
This all-abilities playground is fully fenced, with lots of different play spaces within the grounds, over an undulating area so it’s visually appealing too.
Flat concrete pathways meander, so it’s accessible for all.
No.2: Saltwater Creek Reserve and Liberty Playground
A lovely shaded Liberty playground for all abilities with:
- sandpit games
- a seesaw
- a small fort with slide
- musical instruments, and more.
Big kids love the giant dome climbing structure, and the pump track next to it too.
Image credit: Nubo Sydney facebook
BEST INDOOR PLAYGROUND SYDNEY?
It’s a tie between these two.
No.1: Nubo Indoor Playground Sydney
Nubo in Alexandria is perfect for modern mums who love a natural timber and white aesthetic!
And believe in letting children lead their own play.
It’s a place after my heart.
Image credit: Planet Mino Sydney facebook
No.2: Planet Mino Kids Club
But the most instagrammable of all is PLANET MINO KIDS CLUB at 10 Smith Street Chatswood.
Seriously.
Check out this adventure playground here.
MORE OF THE BEST INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS SYDNEY ?
Here’s a few more good indoor playgrounds in Sydney to try too.
- Monkey Mania Moore Park
- Little Dynamo’s Alexandria
- Inflatable World Castle Hill
- Lollipops Playland Parramatta
BEST SYDNEY ART GALLERIES, MUSEUMS, AND LIBRARIES
No.1: Art Gallery of NSW Kids Activities
There’s FREE school holiday activities plus more all year round at the Art Gallery of NSW in the CBD
Hot tip: Go shopping at the New South Wales Art Gallery shop for the best Australian souvenirs for design lovers including coffee table books, socks, scarves & more.
While you are there, wander the Royal Botanic Gardens to see the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge views, and Hyde Park Barracks.
No.2: National Maritime Museum
Visit this museum to climb aboard a submarine, go down into the holding area of a replica tall ship, and find lots of hands on activities for Sydney kids inside.
No.3: Museum of Fire Penrith
The Museum of Fire in Sydney showcases all things fire-department.
It’s home to model fire trucks, helmets, and uniforms too.
AND a dedicated children’s play space.
WHERE TO SWIM IN SYDNEY WITH KIDS
The Best Places to Swim in Sydney
Wondering where to swim in Sydney with children in tow?
You are in the right place.
it’s hard to pick the best kid friendly beach Sydney has to offer, because there are quite a few.
Check out these safe places to swim in Sydney with kids.
We’ve included the best Sydney rock pools in our list, as well as sheltered Sydney Harbour beaches, netted swimming area pools, and the odd pool too.
No.1: Malabar Rock Pool Sydney
The shining gem of FREE Sydney Rock Pools is Malabar Beach Ocean Pool – it’s the ROCK POOL of your dreams.
We love the enclosed swimming area.
Not far from the city, just 24 minutes, yet it’s an undiscovered treasure by most Sydneysiders.
Malabar Beach might as well be in outer space for all the notice it gets from Sydney locals.
Malabar Beach is definitely Sydney’s best kept secret beach and rock pool, unless perhaps you have a golfer in the family with insider knowledge of the location of Randwick Golf Club on the Malabar headland.
Malabar pool has spectacular views over Long Bay and onto the Randwick Rifle Range.
The beach is popular with families due to the normally calm and quiet conditions.
The gorgeous landscape surrounding the rock pool makes this one of Sydney’s best kept secrets.
Don’t tell!
Sydney Ocean Pools Guide
If your family loves ocean pools as much as we do, check out the Ocean Pools NSW blog
They list over 100 tidal baths, rock pools or ocean baths found in NSW, including Maroubra rock pool not too far away.
History of Malabar Beach Sydney
Malabar is named after a ship that shipwrecked off the point of Long Bay.
Malabar itself remains a somewhat sleepy, laid-back beachside suburb that retains the charm of pre-boom Sydney when regular families could afford to live by the sea.
Malabar Beach Playground (Cromwell Park Playground)
Cromwell Park is located directly behind the beach where there is a children’s playground and public toilets, showers and change rooms.
It’s fenced, with multiple forts, swings, toddler play equipment, and soft fall.
Shade sails keep the kids out of the way of the sun.
Malabar Rock Pool Location, Entry fees and Opening hours
Address: Malabar Beach location is 3r/1 Fishermans Rd, Malabar.
The Malabar Beach Rock Pool is located on the southern foreshore below Randwick Golf Club, at the end of Bay Parade.
Telephone: 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles. Or call Randwick council.
Malabar Ocean Pool Warning
- The beach or rockpool area is not patrolled by Lifeguards or lifesavers.
- Do not swim directly after heavy rain or flood, as the water may be polluted from run-off, or filled with seaweed.
Malabar Rock Pool hours
- 7am to 7pm
- Open 7 days (except during wild weather)
Malabar Pool entry fees
- FREE!
How to get to Malabar Beach Pool
By Bus:
- From Central Station, catch bus 393 to Malabar Beach
- Disembark at Malabar shops on Anzac Parade
- Walk 12 minutes along Prince Edward street towards Randwick Golf Club
- Turn left at Howe Street. The entrance to the Malabar ocean pool is at the end of the street, beyond the car park
By Car: Click here for google map directions
Malabar Beach parking
- There is a small carpark in front of Randwick Golf Club for beach goers.
Accessibility: The pool has an access ramp to the pool deck.
Image credit: TotyVox via Wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0
No.2: Little Bay Beach
Location of Little Bay Beach is 4R Coast Hospital Road, Little Bay NSW 2036
Access to the secluded beach is via a steep timber staircase.
Take Pine Avenue off Anzac Parade and there is parking on the street.
A café is located in the Prince Henry Centre towards the top of the beach near the chapel.
Public toilets and change rooms are located on the timber staircase about halfway down to the beach.
The beach is not patrolled by Randwick City Lifeguards or Surf Lifesavers.
No.3: Bondi Icebergs
Swimming at Bondi Icebergs is a bucket list adventure for many people, so join the fun.
This pool is over 100 years old
For kids, there’s a separate pool to the left of the main lap pool.
Lifeguards are on duty at all times during opening hours, so that makes it even better for families.
Beware- the water is FREEZING!
Not just a little bit cold, but bone chilling cold.
There’s a reason it’s called the ICEBERGS.
Hot tip: Access to the sauna and hot showers are included in your entry fee.
Entry fees are (subject to change):
- Adult: $9
- Child (12 years & under): $6
- Seniors Card Holders: $6
- Family (2 Adults & up to 3 Children): $25
- Locker Hire: $3
- Towel Hire: $4
- Learn to Swim Spectator: $5
Regular Summer hours are 6am – 7pm.
Address: 1 Notts Avenue Bondi Beach NSW.
No.4: Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre
Take the kids to this indoor pool in Sydney to play on the fabulous water playground inside “Splashers”.
Do not miss this fun day out in Sydney for kids.
Splashers water playground is open from 10am to 7pm, 7 days a week.
There’s also a 50 metre swimming pool, warm spas to soak in, a water slide, and a NOT-SO-lazy river that older kids LOVE!
Prices are:
- $8.30 for an adult
- $6.30 for kids (4-15 years)
- $6.30 for concessions (student, pensioner, senior)
- Children 3 years and under are FREE with paying adult
No.5: Bronte Coogee Aquatic Reserve & Bronte Baths
Bronte is a popular Sydney beach with flags and lifeguards, but while it’s touted as being family friendly, you still need to pay attention to the waves and rips.
To the right of the beach, you’ll find the Bronte baths too.
Bronte Baths ocean pool was built in the late 1800’s.
These baths sit into the sandstone cliffs of the area, and there’s a chain link fence that runs along the far wall, creating a visual boundary and demarcation line between the surf and the calmer waters of the pool.
The salt water of the ocean feeds into the pool, but it’s a safer option for kids to swim than the open ocean beach, so this is our go-to option.
The Bronte baths are FREE to enter, so you can spend your money on Paddlepop icecreams after your swim instead.
No.6: Clovelly Beach & Clovelly Rock Pool
As far as family family beaches go, Clovelly Beach is a winner for family swimming spots in Sydney.
There’s:
- deep water swimming for the adults
- shallow beach entry for the toddlers, AND
- the Clovelly Ocean Pool for everyone.
Clovelly Pool is fed by the ocean, but similar to Bronte Baths, it’s separated from the ocean by a concrete wall and a chainlink fence runs the entire length of the pool to highlight the boundary.
The water is warmer than the ocean too, by a few degrees.
Pull up a spot on the stairs and do that time-honoured thing of laying on the hot concrete to warm up after a dip.
No.7: South Curl Curl Rockpools
On the Northern Beaches of Sydney, the South Curl Curl rock pools is the spot to go.
There’s a shallow ocean pool for toddlers and young kids, attached to a larger and deeper ocean pool for teens and adults.
It’s the perfect combo for a family swim.
Find it on Carrington Parade, just south of the South Curl Curl Lifesaving Club.
No.8: Prince Alfred Park Pool Sydney
The best splash pad for toddlers in Sydney is at the Prince Alfred Pool!
It’s clean, tidy, and a really nice place to have a dip on a hot day.
Prince Alfred pool is right next to one of Sydney’s best playgrounds for kids, Prince Alfred park playground so you can make a day of it. (link in playgrounds section above)
Image credits: Prince Alfred Park Pool
Head straight down to enjoy their fancy splash pad for toddlers and young kids.
There’s a big 50 metre public pool.
Older kids who can swim will be first in.
Then there’s plenty of room under the shade of those eye-catching yellow umbrellas when you need a snack or drink break on your family adventure.
Right in the heart of Sydney next to Central train station, this is THE place to cool down when you are desperate to get out of the house.
Hot tip: Avoid the busiest times
- 6:00am – 7:30am and 5:30pm -8:00pm (daylight savings time) or
- 5:30pm – 7:00pm daylight savings time) Monday to Friday.
What you’ll find at Prince Alfred Park Public Pool
The 50 metre lap pool:
- is temperature controlled, so it will never be too cold!
- opens 4 lanes for public swimming at all times
- has a fully accessible ramp into the water
- has grandstand bleachers covered by those fab umbrellas, grassed areas for picnics, and sky-lit change rooms (no more dark and dingy changerooms to deal with!)
- has a range of aquatic fitness classes including aqua zumba, deep water running, and swim fit.
They also offer birthday party packages and “Learn to Swim” classes too
Prince Alfred Swimming Pool is Sydney’s first heated outdoor pool, so you can stop by all year round.
This is the BEST splash pad for toddlers in Sydney!
It’ undercover, so there’s little chance of sunburn too.
Toddlers and preschoolers LOVE it.
Forgotten your rashie, or need more sunscreen?
Just in case you forget the kids’ goggles (like we do on a regular basis), there’s a handy swim shop on site, stocking:
- a wide range of quality googles
- caps
- bathers
- plus, a huge range of other swimming equipment from two of the industry’s most respected brands, Speedos & Zoggs
Prince Alfred Pool Location, Entry fees and Opening hours
Address: 105 Chalmers Street, Surry Hills, New South Wales 2010
Phone: 02 9319 2727
Prince Alfred Park Pool Opening Hours
The Prince Alfred Park pool hours in 2020 are as follows:
- Monday to Sunday – 6am to 7pm (Non-Daylight Savings time)
- Monday to Sunday – 6am to 8pm (Daylight Savings time)
- Public holidays: 7am – 7pm
- Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Prince Alfred Park Pool timetable subject to change.
Prince Alfred Park Pool Entry Fees
Cost: The Prince Alfred Pool entry fees in 2024 are:
- Adult – $6.70
- Concession – $5.10
- Child – $5.10
- Child under 3 – free
- Spectator – $3.70
- Family (2 adults, 2 children) – $19.10
Where to eat at Prince Alfred Park Swimming Pool Sydney – The Whisk & Paddle Cafe.
They offer a menu of :
- light fresh meals
- freshly made juices
- a daily sweet selection, and
- delicious Black Market Roasters coffee.
Open for breakfast and lunch daily.
Events at Prince Alfred Park Community Pool
Check out the website for upcoming events and school holiday programs.
How to get to Prince Alfred Park Pool
By Bus:
- There are several buses that stop next to or are in close distance from Prince Alfred Park Sydney Pool.
- These include the M20, M50 and 353 routes that travel along Chalmers Street towards the CBD which stop within 50 metres of the entrance to the centre.
- There are several buses that stop within 5 minutes from the centre on Elizabeth Street and within 10 minutes from Railway Square travelling both towards and away from the CBD.
By train: The closest train stations is Central Station which is 350 metres away.
To plan your trip, visit Transport NSW or call 131 500.
By Car: Click here for google map directions from your location
Prince Alfred Park Pool parking
- There is no on-site dedicated parking here.
- There are paid parking areas along Chalmers Street when bus lanes are not in operation, please check signs for timings.
- There is also a mix of 1 hour street parking and paid 2 hour stare parking within 5 minutes’ walk of the centre on surrounding streets.
- This can be quite limited and time may be needed to find a suitable parking spot.
BEST BEACHES IN SYDNEY FOR KIDS
Try these family friendly beaches in Sydney.
Many of these are off the beaten track, or locals beaches so you’ll leave the crowds behind.
- Little Manly Cove baths, Manly Cove beach, Store Beach, or East Manly Cove Beach (on the
- Manly Beach for wave lovers
- Shelly beach
- Balmoral Beach
- Chinamans Beach
- Greenwich Baths
- Clontarf beach
- Sandy bay
- Castle Rock beach
- Forty Baskets beach
- Cobblers beach
- Little Bay Beach (near Malabar)
These are all safe beaches for kids.
BEST SYDNEY HARBOUR BEACHES FOR KIDS
I had NO clue that there were breathtaking family-friendly beaches and flat-water coves all along Sydney Harbour.
No idea at all, and I grew up in Sydney.
BUT THAT ALL CHANGED on a day back in December when a car full of kids and I found ourselves a car park at the end of a maze of inner-city roads and hopped out to take a “quick look”.
This beach was a tropical dream come true.
There’s a whole bunch of cute coves and bays to discover around the Vaucluse area.
Who would have thought a Sydney Harbour beach could rank so highly, but they do!
If you are looking for the best beaches in Sydney for family fun, pop these on your list to explore.
These quiet beaches in Sydney definitely help you beat the crowds too.
Many of them are almost unknown!
No.1: Camp Cove Beach Sydney
Camp Cove Sydney Harbour Beach in Watson’s Bay is truly a spectacular beach, with calm teal-coloured waters.
Plus, there’s crunchy caramel-coloured sand, craggy sandstone rock walls that offer shade and protection from the hot Australian sun, and behind, a row of Sydney’s most elite beach houses with millionaire views.
Plus, it’s a little glamorous, with views of the harbour and boats to boot.
In the distance, the ‘Manly to Circular Quay’ ferries cruise the great Sydney Harbour.
It’s just a hop, skip and a jump from the Sydney CBD (24 minutes!) and yet you might as well be on a tropical island in the Pacific Ocean.
It’s better than Waikiki, trumps all over Bali beaches, and as for Bondi?
We’ll leave that to the visiting backpackers and stake our claim at this one.
Warning: Photos DO NOT do this place justice.
View in person for best results!
Camp Cove History
History buffs might also like to know that Camp Cove is important to the history of both Aboriginal people and European settlement in Australia.
Camp Cove is said to be the probable site of the first landfall in Sydney Harbour by the British.
Sydney Harbour National Park Green Point – Camp Cove Watsons Bay
Camp Cove is wheelchair accessible, and you can swim, snorkel, picnic on the beach, or paddle out on a stand up paddle board or kayak.
There’s supposedly a Camp Cove cliff jump, but you’ll have to ask a local for details about Camp Cove Jump Rock.
Camp Cove Fishing
Camp Cove fishing is another popular activity. People fish from a boat, from the beach, and by the river. A current NSW fishing licence is required to fish at Camp Cove.
Sydney walking tracks
Also, while you are in the area, wander the incredible South Head Walk loop up to the historic Hornby lighthouse and back, via nudie Lady Bay Beach (cover your eyes!).
The views of the harbour, combined with the awe-inducing sight of the silica and clay rock cliffs, are unmissable.
Camp Cove Kiosk
We recommend grabbing a snack at the Camp Cove Kiosk.
Try their famous lemon sorbet served in a lemon-peel bowl, or a peach iced tea filled with fresh fruit.
Kids will adore their very own Milo shake too.
BYO drink bottles, sandwiches, and snacks too, as it’s a hike back to the car.
Camp Cove Location, Opening hours and Entry fees
Camp Cove beach address: Camp Cove is in the South Head precinct of Sydney Harbour National Park.
Telephone: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Neilsen Park office 02 9337 5511 (Mon – Fri, 9am to 5pm)
Where is Camp Cove Australia?
Check the map above to see the location of CampCove, near Camp Cove reserve.
It’s not far from the Gap in Sydney.
How to get to Camp Cove Beach: Camp Cove Beach directions
Need directions to Camp Cove?
Drive along New South Head Road past Vaucluse to the end.
Turn right into Robertson Road, then left into Military Road, which becomes Cliff Road.
Turn left into Short Street then right into Cove Street and right into Victoria Street.
Continue to the end and leave the car at Camp Cove carpark.
Entry Fees to Camp Cove Car Park
Bradleys Head carpark:
- $8 per vehicle per day.
North Head carpark:
- $5 per vehicle per day.
- There are pay and display machines that accept cards and coins – no change given.
Chowder Bay Road parking:
- Monday-Friday: $3 per hour, to a maximum of $16 per day.
- Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: $4 per hour, to a maximum of $20 per day.
Hot tip: NPWS All Parks or Multi Parks Pass holders can park free for up to four hours per day.
Here’s Camp Cove directions to the parking at Green Point.
Another small parking area (the one we parked in) can be found if you turn left off Cove Street into Pacific Street, and keep to the left when you see Victoria street, heading up the hill.
Follow the concrete path to the right, and down the wooden stairs to access Camp Cove beach.
Image credit: David Edwards via CC BY 3.0
BEST EASTERN BEACHES SYDNEY
These Sydney Harbour beaches are all within 15-20 minutes of Camp Cove.
I’ve listed them in order, if you were to drive around the headland from one side to the other exploring the area, so you don’t have to double back.
Some of these Sydney Harbour beaches have their own netted beach pool, ideal for little kids especially.
Check them out and let us know what you think.
No.1. Watsons Bay Baths and Robertson Park
Robertson Park on Military Road near Clovelly St and Robertson Place is a sea of green grass and open space, a welcome sight in this tightly packed residential area.
There’s a so-so playground here, and the Watsons Bay Ferry Wharf is right door, but the highlight is the swimming zone of Watsons Bay Baths, just a few minutes walk from the park on Marine Parade, Watsons Bay.
The Olympic-sized harbourside tidal pool now includes sunbathing pontoons, a boardwalk, plenty of seating, and is wheelchair accessible.
Find Robertson Park on Military Road, Watsons Bay, at the northern end of Old South Head Road . On-street parking available, along with parking zones around Robertson Park itself.
The popular Teagardens nearby have shaded outdoor kiosk seating. You can also use the toilets and change room facilities if you’ve been swimming in the baths.
No.2. Gibson’s Beach Reserve
When you’ve finished swimming in the baths, take a peek at the next beach along, the Gibson’s Beach Reserve.
It’s at the southern end of Marine Parade and Salisbury Street, and is a popular spot for picnics and flat water swimming.
No.3. Kutti Beach Vaucluse
This public beach is out of sight, and not so easy to access but if you make it here, you’ll find yourself in a paradise of Mediterranean glory.
It’s the exposed rocks, the turquoise water, and the mansions behind that transport you over the oceans. You won’t believe you are actually in Sydney.
Put your super sleuth hats on, then park your car and walk down to the timber building that is the Vaucluse Amateur Sailing Club.
Hugging the left of the building, and between that and a white picket fence, you’ll see a tiny narrow walkway leading down to a set of steep wooden stairs with a gate at the bottom.
That’s your entry point.
Push the gate open, and you are home free on Kutti Beach.
Kutti Beach is at the end of Wharf road, Vaucluse, near Hopetoun Avenue and The Crescent.
No.4. Parsley Bay Beach Sydney
Sydney is full of surprises!
Just 20 minutes from the CBD, there’s a thick jungle of bushland that buffers a sweet little swimming area and grassy parklands that is a favourite of local families.
Save money by bringing your own picnic and drinks, as once you arrive at Parsley Bay Beach in Sydney, you won’t be leaving for a while.
At least, not if the kids have anything to do with it.
Parsley Bay Beach is a protected swimming area surrounded by National Park greenery, with calm conditions, a wide expanse of beach, green space for playing games and eating picnics, and a playground.
Parsley Bay is just 6 minutes drive away from Camp Cove.
With rocky sandstone outcrops, a short boardwalk jetty, and views of the harbour, Parsley Bay surprised us all.
Parsley Bay Reserve
A small carpark is available from Parsley Road (Horler Avenue), and if are up for a short nature walk via a concrete pathway, there’s on-street parking on The Crescent and Hopetoun Avenue.
Our gang of six (Ned, Jack, Roam the Gnome, our cousins Imy and Holly, and myself) wandered down the Parsley Bay bush track from the roadway, after the parking fairies helped us out with the ideal spot on The Crescent avenue.
Tucked away, at the end of the path and staircase, there’s a flat-water bay of turquoise colour.
Note, the swimming net is only in place during summer.
Parsley Bay Suspension bridge
Overhead, a picturesque suspension bridge beckons, and to the left, the path continued around craggy rock faces.
Peppered along the walk, stood a concrete ramp leading down into the deeper water.
A few metres further, there’s a metal ladder positioned for access to the water for those who want to swim in the deep.
But we headed for the shallow end, and the sandy beach to put down our towels and paraphernalia.
The netted enclosure provides an approximate swimming area 150m long and 95m wide.
The kids wasted no time in jumping in.
While subject to tidal variations, when we visited, the water height was navigable by everyone from 4 years to 12.
Behind the beach, there’s shady green parklands, and a decent playground (recently upgraded by Woollahra Council) to wear out the most hardy of kids.
NB: Harbour swimming enclosure is available during summer only.
There’s lots of marine life in the area, including common native mud crabs and Sydney rock oysters.
Keep your eyes open.
Watch out for water dragons too!
Parsley Bay Reserve has it all.
Parsley Bay Fishing
Parsley Bay is a top spot for land based fishing.
Conditions are good, as the headland keeps you protected from the winds and currents of the harbour.
Common catches are baby snapper, eels, bream, and flathead.
Bring your own camp chairs.
Watch out for oyster cuts.
The Parsley Bay Walk
Look out for the bushland walking circuit. It leads you to the waterfall at the entrance of the gully.
It’s a 15-20 minutes return walk.
Image credit: Azura Lowe
Parsley Bay Kiosk
Parsley Bay ticks all the boxes, with new toilets on site, and a kiosk just in case you need it.
The Parsley Bay cafe is close the car park, and opposite the children’s playground.
They have all your fave drinks, including coffee, chai, hot chocolate, bottled drinks, milkshakes, fruit smoothies and more.
Try something from the menu:
- Banana Bread
- Homemade muffins
- Homemade dark chocolate goji berry and macadamia brownie
- Toasted sourdough
- Ham and cheese croissant
- Bacon and egg sandwich
- Beef burger
- Grilled barramundi
- Garden salads
Kiosk is open 9am to 4pm.
Parsley Bay NSW Location, Opening Hours and Entry Fees
Address: Parsley Rd, Vaucluse NSW 2030
Opening hours: Dawn to dusk
Entry fees: FREE
Picnic tables: Yes
Public toilets: Yes. Ambulant toilet available too.
Dogs: Not allowed
Accessibility: Disabled facilities
How to get to Parsley Bay Sydney
By Bus:
- Catch a bus from Town Hall station towards Watsons Bay & The Gap. Buses 324 and 325 will get you there.
- Disembark at Fitzwilliam Rd at Parsley Rd (Bus 325)
- Disembark at New South Head Rd near Serpentine Pde (Bus 324)
By car:
There’s two access points to Parsley Bay Beach:
- Horler avenue car park
- The Crescent and Hopetoun Avenue street parking (via bushwalk)
Click here for google map directions
Parsley Bay Parking
A small carpark is available from Parsley Road (Horler Avenue). Car park opens at dawn. It closes at approximately 6.00pm (non-daylight saving) and 8.00pm (daylight saving).
Pedestrian access available from The Crescent and Hopetoun Avenue via two concrete pathways through the bush. These pathways are hot! Wear thongs.
NB: Parsley Bay Boat Ramp
Strangely, Parsley Bay Boat Ramp is NOT at Parsley Bay Reserve in the Eastern Suburbs near Vaucluse.
It’s located at McKell Park, George St on the northern side of Sydney at Brooklyn and nearDangar Island.
Image credit: National Parks & Wildlife NSW
No.5. Nielsons Park Vaucluse & Shark Beach
Nielsen Park in Sydney Harbour National Park is the home to Shark Beach, a beautiful safe netted swimming zone that reminds us of river swims at home.
There’s bucketloads of shade for family picnics, and a cafe if you are not a picnic kind of person.
This beach and park is about as family-friendly as you get in Sydney, without the crowds as an added bonus.
Closest access to Nielsen Park and Shark Beach is Greycliffe Avenue, Vaucluse. Park along the street if you can, or find other side-street parking opportunities nearby.
It’s a quick walk from here to Nielsons Park and the beach. Explore the penisula of Bottle and Glass point. The rocks here were named because the sandstone columns were thought to resemble glassware.
Sadly, they’ve lost some of their size as they were once used for target practice from passing ships!
Hot tip: Sydney Harbour National Park Walk
Nielsons Park is also the start of the Hermitage Foreshore walk (see map above).
This easy coastal walk meanders around the coastline all the way to Bayview Hill road, with views of Shark Island and the Harbour Bridge.
Take a dip at Milk Beach (see below) and pause to admire the historic Strickland House that sits behind it. A little further along, find the private and shady Queens beach too.
The Hermitage Foreshore Walk is 4km round trip.
Image credit: Jayphen via CC ShareAlike 2.0
No.6: Milk Beach Vaucluse
Milk Beach is another one of our top Sydney Harbour beaches, simply because it is pretty.
It’s a bonus that it’s perfect for family swims.
Like Camp Cove, it’s also within the Sydney Harbour National Park.
Limited off-street parking available.
The nearest street access is Carrara Road or park near Nielsons Park and wander in via the Hermitage Foreshore walk mentioned above.
For those on public transport, the 325 bus is the one to catch.
Image credit: Michael Woodhead via Flickr CC by SA-2.0
No.7: Queens Beach Vaucluse
Queens Beach is the last of the Sydney Harbour beaches along the Hermitage Foreshore Walk.
The closest access to this Queens Beach nook is via the sandstone step pathway at the junction of Little Queens Lane and Queens Avenue, near Vaucluse Road.
Alternatively, walk from Neilsen Park (20 minutes) or Bayview Hill Road (10 minutes) Follow the sandstone steps down to the Hermitage Foreshore Walk.
There’s also a number of other ways to access the walk including from Shark Beach / Nielsen Park (About 20 minute walk) or from Bayview Hill Road (About 5-10 minute Walk).
Limited on-street parking available nearby.
Try your luck.
Image credit: 000012 via Creative Commons
No.8: Lady Martins Beach Point Piper
Of our list of Sydney Harbour beaches, this one is the most unlikely find – Lady Martins Beach Sydney.
Find it at the end of Wolseley Road where you will spy the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club.
There’s a super narrow pathway to the left (as you face the ocean) of the Yacht Club that gives you access. BYO drinks and snacks. You won’t want to leave for a few hours.
Image credit: Sardaka via CC BY 3.0
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No.9: Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay (formerly Redleaf Pool)
A 90m x 60m enclosure provides a safe and popular swimming zone for kids and families at Murray Rose Pool.
Formerly called Redleaf pool, this tidal enclosure can be found on New South Head Road, in Double Bay.
There is a kiosk on site, plus shady spots to sit and view the harbour.
Stair access from New South Head Road.
Image credit: Michael Woodhead via Flickr CC by SA 2.0
No.10: Seven Shillings Beach
The Murray Rose Pool is part of Seven Shillings Beach in Blackburn Cove, Australia.
Access is via St Mervyns Avenue or through Blackburn Gardens in Double Bay.
Keep an eye out for the Double Bay Library and Woollahra Council Building to know you are in the right spot.
On-street parking can be found in the neighbourhood locale.
That’s it. Our round up of the best Sydney Harbour beaches.
Let us know what you think!
11 Best Beaches in Sydney Harbour Map
BEST SYDNEY EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
No.1: Christmas Carols in the Domain Sydney
At Christmas time, do not miss Carols in the Domain
It’s our favourite yearly tradition in the festive season school holidays to get us in the spirit!
BEST SYDNEY DAY TOURS
Figure 8 Pools Sydney – Guided Walk & Coastal Hiking Adventure
Set sail on the Sydney Harbour for an Afternoon Sail on a Tall Ship
Take a 2-hr Guided Kayak tour of Sydney Harbour
Go on a Behind the Scenes Tour of Sydney Opera House, with lunch or dinner at the Opera Bar
Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Sydney Harbour
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