/ Published in Emerald City

The Best Places To Watch The Sunrise In Sydney

As the pseudo-capital of Australia, Sydney has earned its name as the most loved city in the country. The unique architecture, delightful weather and vast harbour is a welcome sight to those visiting and living in Sydney. Although sometimes people forget to simply look up, and miss the opportunity to rise and watch the city come to life in the early hours of the morning. Watching a sunrise in Sydney is an underrated experience, with so many incredible vantage points littered around the city. Rather than having your head in the clouds about where to see a perfect sunrise, we’ve put a list together so you don’t miss a single ray. Ready to set your alarm?

Wendy’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay

The sunrise to be seen at this location is as whimsical as its name. Wendy’s Secret Garden is a slice of heaven to be found in Lavender Bay, with a number of smaller gardens making up this thriving green area. Named after Wendy

 Whiteley, a notable cultural figure in New South Wales, this garden is Sydney’s worst kept secret and a must visit when you stay at Glenferrie Lodge in Kirribilli. This spot will illuminate some of the first rays in the morning, so allow enough time to make the short 1km walk to this gorgeous location from Glenferrie Lodge.

Image : https://www.sydneycoastwalks.com.au/wendys-secret-garden-sydney/

Observatory Hill, The Rocks

The Rocks need no introduction, and chances are you already have some fond memories here. Their incredible views and dining scene attract non-stop traffic, with the biggest movers and shakers flocking to the water for long lunches and longer cocktail hours. You may not be quite so familiar with Observatory Hill, the scene of a truly spectacular sunrise. Head to the top of Lower Fort Street and bask in the view, where Luna Park and the Harbour Bridge will glow in that golden first light. If you’re staying at the Dalziel Lodge, Observatory Hill is a short nine minute drive across the picturesque Sydney Harbour Bridge, allowing for more of a lie in before the sun goes up.

Image: https://www.visitnsw.com/nsw-tales/things-to-do/featured-photographer-stephen-bak-images/

Hornsby Lighthouse, Sydney Harbour National Park

Hornsby Lighthouse is a treasured view for many residents fortunate enough to be facing Watsons Bay and Sydney Harbour National Park. The heritage style of the lighthouse exudes a classic charm, made even more magical when the sunrises by its side. Cremorne Point Manor offers its guests a couple of ways to view the sunrise, with only water between the Manor and the lighthouse which provides a clear line of sight. Simply take it the sunrise from your guest room, or take a 30 minute drive to the location itself, the choice is yours.

Image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tomojophotography/7780051712

Balmoral, Mosman

Balmoral is a spot that should be visited at every hour of the day. Although if you want a truly transcendent experience, then watching the sunrise over the headlands is something you simply have to experience once. The area is divided into Balmoral Beach and Edwards Beach, and both directions offer optimal viewing on the shoreline. It’s not uncommon to see the birds landing on the water to take in the sight, so bring a couple of coffees and take in the show. The beauty of Balmoral is only an 11-minute drive away, or a substantial walk for those looking for an active start to the day.

Sydney is so lucky to have so many incredible destinations in a relatively short distance from one another. If you plan your sunrise hunt well, you could explore a different corner of the city each morning, with the sun illuminating the beautiful areas to explore in the day ahead. Want to find out more? Contact our friendly staff today, or visit our website.