14 Wild Water Activities in Sydney to Try This Summer

Kayaking on Sydney Harbour

Sydney is an aquatic playground like no other. With its world-famous harbour, pristine coastline, and countless creeks, rivers, and waterways, it’s the perfect destination for water lovers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who simply loves to soak in the scenery from the water, there’s an abundance of wild water activities to enjoy this summer. From surfing and snorkelling to kayaking and wakeboarding, here are 14 exciting water sports and activities you need to try in Sydney.

1. Kayaking on Sydney Harbour

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore Sydney’s iconic harbour. For a leisurely paddle, rent a kayak and set off on your own or join a guided tour. Sydney Harbour Kayaks offers tours from Spit Bridge in Mosman, taking you past rugged cliffs and luxury mansions. Want to get up close to the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge? Join Ozpaddle Sydney for a tour that brings you face-to-face with these architectural icons from the water.

For beginners, Natural Wanders at Milsons Point offers a beginner-friendly 5.5km paddle from Lavender Bay to Blues Point, offering spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

2. Whitewater Rafting at Penrith

Penrith Whitewater Stadium, Penrith

If you’re looking for high-adrenaline water action, head to Penrith Whitewater Stadium, the only human-made whitewater course of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Originally built for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, this course features 14,000 litres of rushing water per second, guiding you through a series of thrilling rapids and obstacles. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a first-timer, it’s an unforgettable experience!

3. Wakeboarding at Cables Wake Park

For a combination of fun and skill, visit Cables Wake Park in Penrith. This park features cable skiing, wakeboarding, and knee-boarding on two large cable lakes. It’s a great spot to learn wakeboarding or refine your skills. When you need a break, cool off at the Aqua Park, which features inflatable slides, trampolines, and water obstacles for all ages.

4. Jetpacking with Jetpack Adventures

Air tricks with Jetpack Adventures, Penrith

Ever wanted to fly above the water? At Jetpack Adventures in Penrith, you can! This thrilling experience lets you soar up to 10 metres above the water using a water-jet-powered pack. You can also try the fly-board craze, where you attach a water-jet-powered board to your feet and dive in and out of the water like a dolphin. It’s an experience that feels like something out of a sci-fi movie!

5. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a relaxed yet fun way to explore Sydney’s waterways. Try it in the calm waters of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve at Manly or Rose Bay. There are several SUP schools along the coast, such as Let’s Go SUP in La Perouse and Cronulla SUP in the south, that offer lessons for beginners. For something unique, try yoga on a paddleboard with Flow mOcean in Manly.

6. Snorkelling at Shelly Beach

Ecotreasures, Manly

Sydney’s clear, inviting waters are perfect for snorkelling. Shelly Beach in Manly is one of the best spots for beginners, with calm waters teeming with marine life. Other top snorkelling locations include Clovelly, Gordons Bay, and Palm Beach. Ecotreasures offers guided snorkelling tours that let you explore Sydney’s underwater world in comfort and safety.

7. Scuba Diving at Long Reef

For those looking to dive deeper, Sydney offers some sensational scuba diving locations. Shelly Beach is great for spotting marine life, but for a truly unique dive experience, head to Long Reef Beach or Bare Island. Dive Centre Manly offers dive courses and guided dives for all levels of experience.

8. Surfing at Bondi and Manly

Surfing is one of Sydney’s most iconic water activities. From beginners to seasoned pros, there’s a surf spot for everyone. Bondi Beach, a National Surfing Reserve, is perfect for first-timers, with several surf schools like Let’s Go Surfing offering lessons. Manly Beach is another hotspot for surfing, where you can catch waves in the shadow of the famous Manly Wharf.

9. Sailing on Sydney Harbour

Oz Jet Boating, Sydney Harbour

Set sail on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a complete beginner, there are plenty of ways to get on the water. Sydney by Sail offers IYT-accredited training, while EastSail at Rushcutters Bay provides yacht hire with a skipper for a relaxed day of sailing. For a more luxurious experience, opt for a sailing cruise with Sydney Luxury Cruises or Champagne Sailing.

10. Jet Boating on Sydney Harbour

For an exhilarating experience on the water, hop on a Thunder Jet Boat ride. These high-speed boats take you on an adrenaline-pumping adventure around the harbour, hitting speeds of up to 75km/h. Hold on tight as you zoom past the Opera House and under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Other companies like Oz Jet Boating and Harbour Jet also offer similar thrilling rides.

11. Jet Skiing on the Hawkesbury River

Want to explore Sydney from a different angle? Take a ride on a jet ski along the stunning Hawkesbury River. Jet Ski Safaris NSW offers guided tours where you can zoom past islands, sandstone cliffs, and secluded mangroves. Stop off at Spencer for a break and enjoy some local food and drinks.

12. Whale Watching Off the Coast

Whale watching, Sydney Harbour

From May to November, Sydney becomes a hotspot for whale watching as humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coastline. The best spots to see these majestic creatures include Cape Solander, Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, and The Federation Cliff Walk. For a closer look, hop on a whale-watching cruise with Whale Watching Sydney, Oz Whale Watching, or Ocean Extreme for a chance to witness these giants breaching and tail-slapping just off the coast.

13. Swimming in Sydney’s Ocean Pools

For a more relaxed aquatic experience, take a dip in one of Sydney’s iconic ocean pools. Bondi Icebergs Pool, with its stunning ocean views, is one of the most famous, but there are plenty of others to explore. The Wylies Baths in Coogee and Bronte Baths offer tranquil settings for a swim in the sea air, while the North Sydney Olympic Pool provides incredible views of the harbour.

14. Relaxing at Sydney’s Beaches

Sydney is home to some of Australia’s best beaches. Whether you’re lounging on the golden sands of Bondi or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Manly, Sydney’s beaches are the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip. If you're after something quieter, try hidden gems like Parsley Bay or Bundeena Beach in the Royal National Park.

Sydney is an aquatic wonderland with something for everyone, from thrilling water sports to relaxing beach days. This summer, dive into the adventure and experience the best that Sydney’s waters have to offer!
Images: Destination NSW