Beautiful & Relaxing Things to Do In Sydney

There are so many relaxing things to do in Sydney. But if you’re craving some beauty with a side of chill, you can revive and recharge at these places which are great for the mind, body and spirit.

Sea Escape

In the dappled light, an array of soft corals sway their feathery arms in the current. Tropical fish dart about, hiding in colourful sponges. This heavenly haven is the Day & Night on the Reef exhibit, at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium – one of the best places to relax in Sydney. Soak up the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Take a tour across the top of the Oceanarium in a glass-bottomed boat. Explore Shark Alley (way more relaxing than it sounds!) Or, get some relaxation tips from the Dugongs as they eat, play, sleep and repeat. It’s a sweet life! A UK study showed visiting an aquarium can boost your mood, and even lower your heart rate. So deep dive into some serious downtime at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.

Stay Cool in the Rainforest

On a warm Sydney afternoon, there’s a refreshing respite at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. The Daintree exhibit is a recreation of the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest in Queensland. This shaded pocket of Sydney is home to Princess the cassowary. Okay, she’s one of the world’s deadliest birds, (think emu crossed with a velociraptor), but relax, she’s safely on the other side of the fence. On the cuter side, there’s a fascinating family of Pademelons, which look like fluffy, mini-kangaroos. Sidle up to some whistling ducks, and spot the carpet python (hint: look up, not down.) Despite its ‘carpet’ name, this python prefers being off the floor. You can also see hundreds of butterflies in the Butterfly Tropics enclosure; if you’re lucky, one might land on your hand!

Park and Chill - The Ultimate Garden Relaxation

Park yourself on the green lawn of any number of stunning Sydney parks for the ultimate relaxing thing to do in Sydney In the east, Centennial Park is the obvious choice. Relax by the ponds, or hire a quaint rickshaw-style bicycle for a leisurely pedal around the circuit. This is one of Sydney’s oldest parkland areas, so the trees are enormous, and the birdlife is plentiful. Slip off your shoes and reconnect with the grass beneath your feet. On the other side of the Harbour Bridge, Cremorne Point offers a walking track that will take you past some of Sydney’s most impressive heritage homes. Here, you’ll find MacCallum Pool, an absolute local gem. Hang out on the wooden deck by the water, and breathe in those multi-million-dollar views.

Eye in the Sky

Red and yellow and pink and blue! You haven’t truly seen a Sydney sunset until you’ve been to the top of Sydney Tower Eye. Relaxing yet awe inspiring, you will enjoy sweeping views of the most beautiful city in the world while standing 250 metres above the ground, the blazing sky makes a stunning contrast to the Blue Mountains in the west. The Observation Deck is the ultimate place to salute the sun as it slips over the horizon. Then watch in wonder as Sydney sheds her day clothes and puts on an evening gown. The city below begins to twinkle with thousands of lights, and harbour boats switch on their decorative lanterns as dusk descends. It’s a glorious sight at the end of a perfect Sydney day.

Bondi to Bronte Walk

Put on your comfy shoes for an outdoor adventure along this incredible 3.5km cliff walk, the ultimate way to relax in Sydney and get in touch with your inner explorer. Starting near the Icebergs pool, follow the coast to Bronte where you can reward yourself with a bite to eat at one of Bronte’s trendy cafes. Don’t miss the incredible cemetery on the Bronte headland, and remember to pack your swimmers and a towel for a refreshing dip.

White Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale 

Featuring contemporary Chinese art, this beauty in Chippendale has jaw-dropping exhibitions that sit superbly in the space. When you’re done, you can relax at the tea house and peruse the unique gifts downstairs.

Have Breakfast With the Koalas

Have a buffet breakfast on Koala Rooftop, then listen to a koala keeper tell you all about these marvellous marsupials. Have your picture taken close to a Koala, then go on a relaxing guided highlights tour of WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.

City Strolling and Relaxing Shopping

Head to Oxford Street for a spot of shopping, and explore the boutiques at The Intersection, on the Glenmore Road corner. When you’ve got some goodies, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the gorgeous backstreets of Darlinghurst and Surry Hills.

Bask in Sydney Heritage at the Rocks 

The oldest area of Sydney, this charming neighbourhood boasts historic laneways, as well as the city’s oldest pubs. Stroll through the Rocks Markets for a selection of handmade items, then visit the world-class Museum of Contemporary Art. Listen out for the buskers on the harbourfront.

Take a Relaxing Ferry to Manly

From Circular Quay, you can catch a ferry to Manly, an iconic 30-minute trip that delivers second-to-none views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, as well as north and south heads. When you get to Manly, grab an ice cream and continue walking to Shelly Beach for a dip or a snorkel.