October Long Weekend in Sydney

Parks & gardens 

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Sydney with an array of flowers and plants coming into bloom. Visit one of the city's beautiful parks to see native flora, such as Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden and the Royal Botanic Gardens, or follow our jacaranda trail to see the purple flowers in bloom across the city. Linger longrer by stopping for a picnic in one of Sydney’s beautiful green spaces. 

Read more: Secret Sydney spots you may have all to yourself

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden in Lavender Bay, Sydney

Whale watching & wildlife encounters

In October, thousands of whales make their way down the east coast of Australia towards Antarctica. Spot them from vantage points like Barrenjoey Lighthouse, North Head, the Federation Cliff Walk and Cape Solander. You can also hop aboard a whale-watching cruise with companies such as Whale Watching Sydney, Oz Whale Watching, Ocean Extreme or Manly Ocean Adventures.

Read more: The ultimate guide to whale watching in Sydney

Whale Watching, Sydney

Taronga Zoo is always a favourite. Meet lions, giraffes, zebras and meerkats in the African Savannah exhibit, take an immersive Tiger Trek through the Indonesian jungle, and watch the seals show off their aquatic skills at the daily presentations. In Darling Harbour, explore the Great Barrier Reef by night at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or spot the koalas in Gum Tree Valley (and many more critters) at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. In Western Sydney, Sydney Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world in sprawling, innovative exhibits. 

Read more: Eight animals you can see up-close in Sydney

Taronga Zoo, Mosman

Beaches & water fun

With the weather warming up, the October long weekend is a great time for a dip. Check the surf at the beaches in the Eastern Suburbs or Northern Beaches. If you wish to venture further, follow one of our curated surf trips surrounding Sydney, and if you are a beginner wanting to learn the basics, book into a class with a surf school. For more sand and surf, discover Sydney’s secret harbour beaches and top family-friendly beaches. Along the coast are spectacular ocean pools for a swim, like the 115-year-old Wylie’s Baths in Coogee and Bronte Baths. If its raining outside, you can still take a dip in one of Sydney's restorative bathhouses, onsens and hammams.

Read more: Different ways to play at Sydney's best beaches

North Narrabeen Beach, North Narrabeen

One of the best ways to experience Sydney's natural beauty is by exploring its pretty waterways on a scenic ferry ride, whether that's on the classic Circular Quay to Manly route or further afield in the Hawkesbury and the Royal National Park. Looking for that perfect Instagram shot? Chase the prettiest waterfalls in and around Sydney, from the gentle cascades at Collins Flat Beach in Manly to the popular Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains. 

Read more: Sydney's must-try water activities

Wentworth Falls, Leura

Outdoor adventure

Get active by exploring the city’s walking trails, from coastal pathways to longer day hikes outside of the city. The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, the Sydney Harbour Bridge to South Head and the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk all provide glorious views of the city and its surrounds. If you prefer to travel on two wheels, check out these top cycling routes, mountain biking trails and bike tours. Other fun outdoor activities include horse riding and camping (there are plenty of stunning campsites just a hop, skip and a jump away from the CBD). To truly escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visit one of Sydney's national parks. 

Read more: 10 unique ways to experience Sydney's magical icons

Coastal views of Tamarama Beach along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Have an adrenaline-fuelled adventure

Head to Western Sydney for a whole host of exciting activities. You’ll find elevated obstacle courses and rollercoaster zip lines for the whole family at TreeTop Adventure Park. In Penrith, go skydiving without having to get in a plane at iFLY Downunder, fly through the air with a water jet-powered backpack with Jetpack Adventures, hug the corners on a high-speed go-kart track at Luddenham Raceway and much more. At Sydney Olympic Park the kids can try archery, bike around Bicentennial Park, take a segway tour, attend a circus class or check into the dive clinic at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. 

Read more: The top adrenaline activities in Sydney

Air tricks with Jetpack Adventures, Penrith