Sydney offers a huge range of options for the outdoors enthusiast. Whether you're up for watersports, hiking, or cycling, there's something for everyone. For those who aren't inclined towards outdoor sports or are looking to join a gym, Sydney has lots of fun options that take place indoors, too. Keep reading to discover all the ways you can stay active while living in the City of Sails.
Outdoor activities in Sydney
Sydney's coastline offers beautiful walking opportunities, swimming, kayaking, and surfing. And your options aren't limited to the coast. There are also lots of hiking and exploring opportunities in Sydney's parks and green spaces, too. Below we've collected some of the best things to do in Sydney if you've got some free time and the sun is shining (as it often is!).
Coastal walks
Maybe a walk beside the sea doesn't sound like the most exciting activity, but there's just something about Sydney's coastline that entrances people. Sydney offers several coastal walks that provide views of both the ocean and the cityscape. The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a well-known route that spans approximately six kilometers, passing by beautiful beaches, cliffs, parks, and rock pools. Similar walks include the Manly to Spit Bridge Walk, the Hermitage Foreshore Walk, and the Cronulla Beach Walk.
Beach activities
Sydney is renowned for its beautiful beaches. And going to the beach doesn't have to involve being super active – you can sunbathe or relax on the golden sands at places like Bondi, Manly, Coogee, Bronte, and Cronulla. If you're feeling more active, surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball can be found at some of these spots.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Sydney's coastline is rich with all kinds of underwater life. Snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiasts can explore underwater ecosystems and see coral, fish, sea turtles, and even seahorses. Popular spots include Clovelly, Gordons Bay, Shelly Beach (Manly), and Bare Island. If you're considering getting your diving license, there are lots of dive course providers in Australia, and Sydney has local dive groups you can join.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
Exploring Sydney's coastline by kayak or SUP allows you to enjoy close-up views of the cliffs, coves, and marine life that surround Sydney. Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour, and the bays around Manly are popular locations for kayaking and paddleboarding, and you can find rentals fairly easily if you don't have your own gear.
Coastal cycling
Cycling along the coastline is another way to get a dose of Sydney's stunning views and ocean breezes. The dedicated cycle paths along coastal areas provide opportunities for leisurely rides or longer cycling routes. The Royal National Park and the Bicentennial Park in Sydney Olympic Park are popular spots.
Fishing
Fishing fans can try their luck from the shore, or, for a one-off or special experience, you can join fishing charters for deep-sea fishing adventures. Sydney's coastline offers opportunities for catching a variety of fish species, including snapper, flathead, bream, and kingfish.
Hiking
While Sydney's coastline offers fantastic outdoor activities, the city also provides plenty of non-coastal outdoor options, including beautiful hikes and nature walks. Some hiking options are further afield and will involve taking a train, but others are close to the city center. Nearby national parks include the Blue Mountains National Park, Royal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Sydney Harbour National Park, Lane Cove National Park, Garigal National Park, and Centennial Parklands.
Indoor activities in Sydney
Perhaps you're not someone who likes watersports or hiking, or maybe you're looking for something to do on a rainy day – or, more likely, a day when it's too hot to go outside. Well, Sydney has you covered when it comes to indoor sports and activities, too.
Indoor rock climbing
Sydney has several indoor rock climbing gyms where you can test your skills and challenge yourself. Whether you're into bouldering or top roping, are a beginner, or are a pro, there are options for everyone. Some popular options include Climb Fit, 9 Degrees Alexandria, and The Edge Rock Climbing Centre. These facilities offer climbing walls of various difficulty levels and provide a safe and controlled environment for climbers of all experience levels. Some gyms also offer lessons and workshops for those looking to upskill.
Indoor Go-karting
If you have a need for speed, indoor go-karting in Sydney is a great option for both kids and adults. Venues like Fastlane Karting, Eastern Creek Karts, and Spitfire Indoor Karting offer indoor tracks where you can race against friends or family members in high-speed go-karts.
Indoor golf
Sydney has indoor golf centers that allow you to practice your swing and play virtual golf on simulated courses. If you don't have time to get out to the green or if the weather's not looking good, venues like Golf in the City, X-Golf Sydney, and Swing365 offer state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators that provide a realistic golfing experience.
Join a gym or a class
Whether you're into F-45, boxing, aerobics, aerial silks, martial arts, or yoga, there are hundreds of gyms and studios across Sydney, and you're sure to find one that suits your interests or level of expertise. Get online and have a search or join a Facebook group of enthusiasts and ask for advice.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
