No matter if you’ve visited Sydney 10 times or if this is your very first trip, the best way to experience the city is to go off the beaten path and check out places that are less explored. You can check out areas with less tourist foot traffic and get to see where the locals go to enjoy their city while hitting up some of the more unexplored spots in Sydney.
Just because a destination is less written about or more hidden away does not mean it is any less exciting or gorgeous. Sometimes, places get to stay a well-kept secret for a select few extra adventurous visitors. While you enjoy your stay, here are some of the best off the beaten path attractions that you should definitely check out while you are spending your holiday in gorgeous Sydney.
Attraction #1: Wendy’s Secret Garden
Built by Wendy Whiteley as a show of love for her late husband, Wendy’s Secret Garden is an amazing oasis for art and nature lovers alike. It is located in Lavender Bay, at the foothill of Wendy’s private home and it is filled with both local and exotic plants, with hidden and winding covered paths leading from one area to another.
Scattered around the property and gardens are sculptures, wooden carvings, and bronze busts, which were generously donated by local artists. The view from the garden is also quite breathtaking, as you can see the Harbor Bridge and the city center. Check out the hours here to see when you can visit this magical and symbolic sculptural garden.
Attraction #2: Long Reef Beach
Only around 30km from the famed Bondi Beach, Long Reef Beach may not be as well-known, but this is the perfect beach Although not as well-known as the Bondi Beach, the Long Reef Beach is a fantastic beach for taking intimate walks on white sand beaches, or flexing your ocean sports muscles with some wind and kite surfing. For golf enthusiasts, Long Reef Beach features the North Shore golf club.
There are many offshore reefs at this location as well as tall and gnarly waves for surfers to check out that makes this area a must see. It also features relaxing grass areas where you can BBQ or play a quick game of cricket with your travel mates. With plenty of shopping and cafes, you won’t be disappointed when you visit this area.
Attraction #3: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Just north of Sydney, in New South Wales, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park sits, encompassing coastline, rainforest, bushland and even a portion of the Hawkesbury River. This national park has significant historical value, with some of its highlights being Aboriginal sites, including ancient red ochre rock paintings and rock engravings which can be reached by hiking up the Red Hands Cave track. From there, you can see the West Head lookout and the 19th-century Barrenjoey Lighthouse which offer incredible coastal views.
Attraction #4: Barrenjoey Lighthouse
Erected in 1881, this heritage lighthouse is an iconic sight to see and stands at Barrenjoey Head at Palm Beach on Sydney’s northern beaches, located inside of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National park. The lighthouse is built of sandstone quarried on site, while the lighthouse, its oil room and keepers’ cottages remain unpainted in the original stone finish. Positioned 91m above sea level, the lighthouse can be reached by a couple of walks and offers fantastic views. It is a great way to take a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Attraction #5: Cockatoo Island
Just a ferry ride away from Sydney harbor, Cockatoo Island is steeped in history and intrigue. For those with a little morbid sense of adventure, but still steeped in history, taking a day trip to Cockatoo Island is right up your alley. This island has been used as a prison (for those already transported to the Australian penal colony in the 19th century) and as a large shipyard, where Australian and other allied naval vessels were serviced during World War II. It operated as a shipyard until the 1990s.
Many of the old buildings are still standing, both from the convict era and the industrial period. Explore the island by taking a night time ghost tour, historical prison tour or at your own pace audio tour. This is a must to see with the benefit of learning more about the history of Australia.
Stay At Bondi 38 & Make The Most Of Your Adventure
At Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments, our beachfront serviced apartments are your home away from home while you soak up the sun and enjoy everything Sydney and all of its local attractions has to offer. Bondi 38 is the ideal place for any length of visit, as we offer luxury with an unparalleled location.
Choose from gorgeous studios, one-bedroom or two-bedroom serviced apartments that can accommodate any type of trip, be it adventure, romantic, business or a quick overnight stay.
With Bondi Beach a stroll away, you can get up and start your day right on the beach. Are you ready for your front-row seat to adventure? Book your unforgettable experience now!
