Figure 8 Pools

By: Claudia MacPhail
 
If you’re looking for an adventure this summer, then the spectacular figure 8 pools are a secret hotspot you must see for yourself. 

Located in the Royal national park, near Burning Palms Beach, 37km south of Sydney, these amazing ocean pools are definitely worth the visit.

After a 3.5km walk along the coast, you will reach the rock ledge where you’ll find perfectly figure 8 shaped pools that are deep enough to swim in. It is important to note that it is only safe to visit at low tide as high tide can result in very dangerous conditions so it is recommended to check surf forecasts prior to visiting.

Additional information:

Take extreme caution, the rock platform can be slippery.

Come prepared! The hike there is steep so bring plenty of water, sunscreen and wear proper hiking shoes.

Enjoy the scenic views and all that this naturally breathtaking attraction has to offer!

Pylon Lookout

By: Maryam Mandehgari

Offering some of the best views of the city, at the top of the south east pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is the Pylon Lookout. 

Climbing the stairs to the Lookout provides a walk-through history of the building of the Bridge.

With 200 stairs, 87 metres above sea level and 3 levels of exhibits, there is a great deal to be learnt about the Sydney Harbour Bridge and its history, construction, the men who built it and the vision of the chief engineer JJC Bradfield to be discovered. 

The Pylon Lookout is a must-see while in Sydney providing a panoramic view of the City of Sydney, North Sydney, east towards the heads of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Circular Quay.

To get to the Lookout you must firstly climb the stairs to access the pedestrian footpath. The stairs are found just north of the intersection of Cumberland and Argyle Streets. Once on the footpath the Pylon is approximately 500 metres north.

Additional Information:

Address: Cumberland Street (on the Harbour Bridge).

Reviews & Ratings:

-"Spectacular and stunning view up the lookout, well worth the money and the climb." 5/5

-"Great location to take the whole city in." 5/5

-A must visit vantage point for all visitors! Instead of spending a lot of money on the Bridge climb, this is a much cheaper alternative while the view is just as spectacular." 4.5/5

Fairy bower pool

By: Nelson Xie

Constructed by locals in 1929 when saltwater bathing was at its inception, this triangular shaped pool is stunning day and night. The 3 sculptures on the pools edge are known as “The Sea Nymphs’ or ‘The Oceanides’, and like their name suggests, they are a truly enchanting experience. It was built by local residents in 1929, Fairy Bower rockpool is one of a number of historic pools cut and blasted along the New South Wales coast as saltwater bathing became popular.

This is not a pool where you can expect to do your 20 laps, though. It’s a kind of triangular shape, barely 30m at its longest point, and that may be stretching it even if you swim diagonally across.
But it is a fantastic spot to cool off on a hot day. There are two fresh water showers by the pool and changing rooms for two men and two women (including one loo each) in the shed just by the pool

Addition information 

Address: 5B Marine Parade, Manly NSW 2095

Reviews

“Fairy Bower is the best, lovely beaches with plenty of sitting areas on the esplanade. Good eating, drinking and shopping facilities at all beaches"

"Family beach”

 

"Gorgeous  Great beach! Reminds me of South Beach Miami"

Wendy's Secret Garden

By: Mitchelle Antonio

Tucked away in the shadow of office towers in North Sydney, it is both public land and private paean to love, loss and renewal. There's no paint, only plants. No canvas, only soil. No pencils or brushes, only sunshine and greenery. Filled with natural fauna this beautiful garden is the best spot for anything ranging from weddings to something as simple as a picnic or walk.

 Please Note:

There isn't any signage or posts which show the direction to the garden, however, it is quite easy and can be found on google maps. . 

Additional Information:
Address: Clark Park, Lavender Street Lavender Bay, 2060 Hours: open 24 hours

Reviews and ratings:

1. "Great place to have a stroll, breakfast or picnic with family and friends."

2. "Good location for a calm/peaceful walk, make sure to bring insect repellent!"

3. "We enjoyed this family friendly setting."

Nielsen Park

By: Freya Daver

Nielsen Park is located in Vaucluse and is located 10 minutes drive from Parsley Bay Reserve (Check our other Blog Post for more information). It features outstanding views of the Harbour and also has a small swimming enclosure and Café and Restaurant for you to grab a quick bite. It also has facilities such as picnic tables, toilets, a public telephone, a walk path, a beach, and an incredible view overlooking the Bridge.

Additional Information

Address: Greycliff Avenue, Vaucluse, 2030

Phone: 9337 7333– Neilsen Park Café

Timings: Open 24 Hours, Café and restaurant are open 8:30am to 4pm daily. (Closed on Mondays)

Reviews and Ratings

·      " "Nice location obviously, and definitely a place to have a breakfast."

·      “Our family enjoyed a wonderful Mother's day lunch at the cafe yesterday."

·      "I find the location sublime and the food and service top class!"