Sunrise over Circular Quay |
The ultimate way to explore stunning Sydney Harbour? On a ferry trip. Jump aboard and explore beaches, happening neighbourhoods, coastal walks and hidden coves.
Sydney Harbour is regarded as one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world – for good reason. This dreamy aquatic playground covers more than 240km of shoreline, with some 100 inner-city beaches and dozens of ocean pools to splash about in, not to mention swathes of native bush and postcard-perfect gardens. There are also plenty of landmarks, including Luna Park, Taronga Zoo Sydney, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The best way to reach them all? Via ferry. The main ferry hub is Circular Quay, with routes fanning out from here west up the Parramatta River, north to Manly and far east to Watsons Bay. Head out on a watery adventure and explore some of the city’s prettiest beachside suburbs, harbour islands and major attractions on these legendary ferry routes.
Hot tip: In most cases, you need an all-purpose public transport Opal card to ride on a ferry. These days, you can even tap on with a contactless credit or debit card.
1) Circular Quay to Manly
There are few more legendary, or scenic, ferry trips than the route from Circular Quay to Manly – it has been wowing commuters for decades. You set off gazing at the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, then glide east toward the Heads before veering north past Sydney Harbour National Park to dock in Manly. And when you arrive, you’re greeted with breezy restaurants and bars on the wharf, and multiple beaches within easy reach. Whether you’re a Sydneysider or a visitor, this trip never fails to impress.TIP: It’s hard to beat a drink in the sun at Hugo's Manly Restaurant, smack bang on the wharf. Watch the ferries come and go and gaze over a swathe of sand.
Manly ferries depart every half hour from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 5.30-12.20am; Sat & Sun 6.20-12.20am.
2) Circular Quay to Watsons Bay
Hugo's Manly, Northern Beaches |
TIP: Just steps from the wharf you’ll find Doyles on the Beach, an acclaimed seafood restaurant where you can sit down to a fancy meal – think tiered seafood platters – or grab takeaway fish-and-chips to enjoy on the sand.
Watsons Bay ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.05am-11.45pm; Sat & Sun 7.45am-11.45pm.
3) Circular Quay to Cockatoo Island/Wareamah
Aerial over Watsons Bay |
TIP: You can BYO tent to pitch in the campground. Or opt for a little luxury with a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. The biggest luxury? Unbeatable views of Sydney Harbour. If you’re brave, book one of the guided ghost tours.
Cockatoo Island ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.15am-11.45pm; Sat 6.45am-11.45pm; Sun 8.45am-8.45pm.
4) Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo
Cockatoo Island with views back to Sydney CBD |
TIP: Did you know that you can stay overnight at Taronga Zoo? The harbourside sanctuary offers both a luxe Wildlife Retreat as well as glamping experience Roar and Snore. Both give you exclusive access to the zoo after hours.
Taronga Zoo ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.48am-6.45pm; Sat & Sun 8:52am-6:42pm.
5) Circular Quay to Lane Cove
Taronga Zoo, Mosman |
TIP: Stop at Balmain East for a sunny brunch by the heritage sandstone walls of The Fenwick or set up for a picnic at any of the spectacular parks you’ll see at each wharf.
Ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Sun 7.30am-7.00pm.
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