Adventure, baby!

Christine Knight

Christine is the editor of Adventure, Baby!

Gordons Bay Clovelly: Sydney’s Best Beaches

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

Gordons Bay Clovelly: Sydney’s Best Beaches 

Gordons Bay is a secluded beach in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Teaming with sea life and protected by an offshore reef, the calm bay is a popular spot for snorkelers and divers.

Located between Clovelly Beach and Coogee Beach, Gordons Bay (sometimes referred to as Gordon’s bay or Gordon Bay) is a bit tricky to reach. Access is limited to pedestrians via the Cliffbrook Parade coastal walk or the surrounding neighborhood streets.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

We entered via Thorpe Street, walking down a long flight of stairs to join the coastal walk, which you can see marked in green on Google Maps.

The coastal walk is a stunning and offers tantalising glimpses of Gordons Bay below, plus a beautiful array of native plants.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

Access to the beach itself is via stairs and a ramp. The beach is quite small and is surrounded by some interesting old wooden boat ramps.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

The water is calm and quite shallow at the shore, but as there are no lifeguards here, keep an eye on small children. 

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

Inside the aquatic reserve are a wide range of fish. There are 18 species who are commonly seen including; blue gropers, stingarees, old wives, drummer, luderick, goatfish and mados. There is a legendary groper “bluey” who lives in the bay.

Gordons Bay

If you are into snorkeling or diving, try the self-guided Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail. The 600m trail takes about 40 minutes to complete. There are concrete drums linked with a chain to form the trail, and steel plaques with info on them to guide you.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

We visited in winter and as it was too cold to swim, enjoyed instead climbing the rocks. There are some beautiful little caves to discover.

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

If you want to visit a cafe, I highly recommend nearby Gordon’s. It is a walkable from Gordons Bay and extremely kid-friendly.

Read more about visiting Gordon’s Cafe.

If you need a bathroom, the closest public toilets are south at Coogee Beach or north at Clovelly Beach.

Read more about visiting Gordons Bay.

Get Directions

Gordons Bay Clovelly Sydney

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Gordon’s Cafe Clovelly: Kid-friendly Cafes in Sydney

Gordon’s Cafe Clovelly: Kid-friendly Cafes in Sydney

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

Family-friendly Gordon’s is a relaxed cafe in Sydney’s Clovelly, serving healthy fresh food, a stone’s throw from Gordons Bay.

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

Gordon’s is open 7 days a week, serving all-day breakfast and lunch, plus selected evenings (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). This is a friendly neighbourhood cafe where the focus is on serving the locals delicious, wholesome, seasonal food. Gordon’s is fully licensed and has a collection of Australian and Italian wines plus Mountain Goat craft beer on tap.

There is seating available both inside and out. The cafe is extremely popular so on weekends, I suggest calling ahead for a reservation.

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

The friendly staff offered us a kids’ menu/colouring-in sheet plus crayons on arrival (thanks!). The kids offerings are pretty standard and reasonably priced. Even though it was only 10am, a kids’ pasta was ordered – a excellent sized portion and thanks for being so flexible to the staff.

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

Hubby and I both ordered the Gordons Stack (with layered tomato, haloumi, avocado, poached eggs & bacon on sourdough topped w. hollandaise & served w. mixed leaf
$19). I requested mine without hollandaise and bacon and was offered a vege alternative – I chose spinach.

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

We also ordered the Mixed Berry Smoothie ($7.50).

Gordons Cafe Clovelly Sydney

The food arrived quickly and was fresh, pretty and delicious. An absolute neighborhood gem! 

Burnie Park-Clovelly Burnie Park-Clovelly

Just down the street is Burnie Park, which is a lovely bit shady park, including a nice sized playground.

Gordons Bay is about a 600m walk to get to from the cafe. Read more about visiting Gordons Bay.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Outside.
Easy access: Yes.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: Yes.

Gordons Cafe
353/355 Clovelly Rd,
Clovelly NSW
Reservations: (02) 9665 2342
Hours: Mon-Thurs 6:30am-2:30pm, Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat & Sun 7am-3pm
gordonscafe.com.au
Get Directions

 

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

 

Historical Sydney: La Perouse and Bare Island

La Perouse and Bare Island, Sydney

Historical Sydney: La Perouse and Bare Island

La Perouse is located on the north headland of Kamay Botany Bay National Park. The headland is an historic part of Sydney as well as a place to enjoy stunning beaches, explore rock pools and spot wildlife.

La Perouse

Named for the French explorer Jean-François de Galaup – the Comte de la Perouse – who arrived a few days after the First Fleet, La Perouse is steeped in Aboriginal and colonial history.

The Indigenous community have had strong ties to the headland for centuries. To learn more about the Aboriginal history of la Perouse, take an Indigenous-led Kadoo Tour, with Tim Ella of the Dharawal–Yuin people. The tours in Kamay Botany Bay National Park include stories of the local indigenous population, the chance to try bush tucker and experience a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony. 

La Perouse

La Perouse is also where Captain Arthur Phillip’s First Fleet initially landed in 1788, before deciding on Sydney Cove. The La Perouse Museum, housed inside the heritage-listed Cable Station, has exhibits on the voyage of Comte de la Perouse as well as local Aboriginal stories.

La Perouse Bare Island

Nearby Bare Island is home to the 1880s-built Bare Island Fort, built to protect Sydney from the Russians and since used as a retirement home for WWI veterans and film set for the Tom Cruise film Mission: Impossible 2. To see inside the fort, you need to book a guided tour of Bare Island, which runs on Sundays. Tickets can be booked online, at the island’s gate or La Perouse Museum. Check upcoming tour dates and book tickets here.

The Blak Markets also run on Bare Island four times a year, featuring traditional Aboriginal dance performances, indigenous arts and craft stalls as well as local bush tucker. Find upcoming market dates here

La Perouse Bare Island

The sea life in the water around Bare Island is bountiful, making it a popular spot for scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing. Also for sea birds to make an appearance while they contemplate catching dinner.

La Perouse Bare Island

At the base of the island is a large, flat rock shelf, popular with families for its rock pools.

For a bit of exercise, take the Henry Head walking track on the headland, a 4km return trail to Endeavour Lighthouse and World War II battlements. For breathtaking ocean views, walk to Cape Banks.

Frenchmans Bay La Perouse

The beaches of La Perouse are absolutely stunning as well as extremely calm thanks to their sheltered location. 

Read more about visiting the La Perouse beaches.

There is plenty of space on the headland to spread out a picnic blanket and bring your own lunch, however, we absolutely love the Boatshed, perched overlooking Frenchmans Bay.

There are public bathrooms available near Frenchmans Bay and also near the start of the walk to Congwong Beach.

La Perouse is easily accessed by public transport, with direct buses from the city centre. The route from the CBD will take you through inner city Surry Hills, through Randwick and Kingsford before getting to beachside Maroubra, Malabar and Little Bay. 

If you drive, be aware that it’s a popular spot and parking can be hard to find.

La Perouse La Perouse La Perouse Bare Island La Perouse Bare Island La Perouse Bare Island La Perouse Bare Island La Perouse Bare Island La Perouse Bare Island

Read more about visiting La Perouse.

Get Directions

La Perouse and Bare Island, Sydney

More things to do in Sydney

Visit one of the La Perouse Beaches.

Dine at the Boatshed La Perouse.

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Central Gardens Nature Reserve Merrylands, South-West Sydney

Central Gardens Nature Reserve Merrylands

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

The Central Gardens Nature Reserve, also known as Central Gardens Merrylands, is a nature reserve in south-west Sydney. The 12-hectare park features two playgrounds, animal enclosures, BBQ areas, a flat path perfect for scooters and bikes, plus a small waterfall feature.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

Both playgrounds were updated this year (you can see what the park looked like last time we visited here) with an accessible design.

The main playground is located closest to Paton St. It has a massive shade cloth over the bulk of the playground, with an inclusive ramp structure and slides at the end, sand pit with water feature, swings, liberty swing, tyres that make music when you jump on them, merry go round, in-ground trampolines, walking see-saw, a rock climb feature on the ramp structure on the centre, talking tubes, a tunnel and a spinning teacup. 

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

There is also a large rope climbing structure outside of the shade cloth area and a toddler play area.

The second playground is a much smaller one located near Merrylands Street car park. It is also all-abilities and has a liberty swing.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

Behind the main playground you’ll find the native animal exhibits. It’s free to wander through them and see the very well cared for animals, including birds, particularly scary emus, wallabies with babies in their pouches, and kangaroos.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens, Merrylands: The best of southwest Sydney for families via christineknight.me Central Gardens, Merrylands: The best of southwest Sydney for families via christineknight.me Central Gardens, Merrylands: The best of southwest Sydney for families via christineknight.me

There is also a nocturnal house with possums and fruit bats.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

Central Gardens Merrylands also features a waterfall right in the middle of the park. It’s a lovely spot to wander around, with water birds and cockatoos in abundance. Behind the waterfall is a koala sanctuary.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

The park has plenty of wide open green space for kids to run around and picnics, plus free barbecues and picnic tables.

Central Gardens, Merrylands: The best of southwest Sydney for families via christineknight.me

Near the main playground is a Bush School that meets monthly.

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

Central Gardens can be accessed from Merrylands Road or Paton Street, where there is a free car park. If you are going via public transport, take bus 806 (from Parramatta to Liverpool) or 818 (from Westmead to Merrylands).

Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney Central Gardens Merrylands Sydney

Central Gardens Nature Reserve
Cumberland Hwy & Merrylands Road, Merrylands West
https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/central-gardens-nature-reserve
Get Directions

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

The Coal Loader and Coal Loader Cafe, Waverton

The Coal Loader Waverton Sydney

The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability and Coal Loader Cafe, Waverton

The Coal Loader is an historic venue in North Sydney, including a large green space, community garden, elevated platform with harbour views, bush walks and the Coal Loader Cafe.

The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability is located on the Waverton peninsula. It’s a fascinating place to delve into Sydney’s past and also learn about its sustainable future. 

The Coal Loader Waverton

Coal Loader History

The Aboriginal Cammeraygal people called the peninsula home for thousands of years. A large rock engraving of a whale survives at the entrance to the Coal Loader site, and there is further evidence of the indigenous community carved into rocks on the bush walks. 

The Coal Loader Waverton

The Coal Loader opened in the early 1920s to serve as a transfer depot for coal to be moved from bulk carriers to smaller coal-fired vessels or to be distributed by road. The elevated platform which is now a place for the community to gather as well as the face of North Sydney’s sustainability plan, once housed a large coal stockpile.

Underneath the platform are a series of tunnels through which coal was transported into coal ‘skips’. The site was decommissioned in the early 1990s. After being dedicated a public open space in 1997, North Sydney Council took over management of the site in 2003, working with a grant from the Australian and NSW Governments to transform the space into the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.

The site operated for over 70 years before being decommissioned. The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability was opened in July 2011, and the Coal Loader platform opened in March 2018.

Today, the Coal Loader is a place for the community to gather and relax, dine, and learn about sustainable living practices. 

Genia McCaffery Centre

The Genia McCaffery Centre, located inside the historic sandstone building onsite, is a place to visit and be inspired by sustainable concepts. Visitors can get information on how to “green up” their lives, participate in book swaps, and drop off batteries, compact fluorescent lightbulbs, toner cartridges, corks, soft plastics or mobile phones and their accessories for recycling.

The Coal Loader Waverton

Coal Loader Platform

The platform is one of Sydney’s largest publicly accessible green roof spaces. At one hectare in size (or seven Olympic swimming pools next to each other), the concrete and sandstone platform is a multipurpose recreational space displaying sustainable technology and community gardens.

The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton

Coal Loader Cottage Community Garden

Dotted around the Genia McCaffery Centre, cafe and platform are an array of community gardens and the native bush nursery. In total there are 40 raised garden beds, aquaponics facilities, fruit trees and herb planters. Visitors are welcome to admire the gardens and have a bit of a sniff at the produce as it grows – but must be a member of the community gardens to access any produce. 

The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton

Aboriginal Bush Foods Garden

The ‘bush foods’ garden has a variety of edible and otherwise useful native plants from the local area.

Chook Run

While the chickens were on holiday when we visited, they usually live at the Coal Loader and visitors can learn how to keep their own chooks at home.

Coal Loader Cafe

The Coal Loader Cafe is currently open Wednesday to Sunday serving delicious light breakfast and brunch meals. Book a table or be prepared for a bit of a wait. The cafe has a kids’ menu and options for vegetarians.

The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton

Coal Loading Tunnels

Take the elevator or stairs down to the Coal Loader tunnels and explore tunnel 1, features the original coal feeder and cart, and tunnel 2, which takes visitors 160m through the dark to bushland of Balls Head.

The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton

Foreshore Park and Walks

Past the tunnels is the foreshore park with plenty of bush walks. You can also access the park by road if you won’t wish to go through the tunnel. The 2.8 hectare park features a native havens demonstration garden (habitat for fauna), wetlands, picnic areas, and foreshore walk. Along the walk are interpretive signs which talk about the site’s heritage and sustainable transformation. The walk to Balls Head Reserve traverses through the largest bushland remnant in North Sydney.

The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton The Coal Loader Waverton

Digital Kids Trail

While our kid was easily entertained during our visit with scooting, exploring and bushwalking, families can also check out the free digital kids trail, which helps kids discover the Coal Loader’s history, sustainability features, native planting, food gardens, bats, chickens and more. Visit http://www.TheCoalLoader.com.au on your mobile device to begin.

The Coal Loader Waverton Sydney

The Coal Loader
2 Balls Head Dr, Waverton
https://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/Environment_Waste/The_Coal_Loader
https://www.facebook.com/Coal-Loader-Cafe-543816115654540
http://www.coalloadercafe.com.au/

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

The Coal Loader Waverton Sydney

Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral, Southern Highlands, Australia

Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon: Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral

Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon: Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral

The perfect high tea in Bowral. ‘Your Vintage Occassion Tea Salon’ serves up delicious high tea inside Dirty Janes Bowral, in the NSW Southern Highlands.

Dirty Janes Bowral

For an authentic high experience, we absolutely love ‘Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon’, the quaint and quirky salon inside Dirty Janes Bowral.

Dirty Janes Bowral

With a speciality in high tea, ‘Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon’ is also a place where you can drop by for a light meal or treat. Their cakes are absolutely incredible, all handmade each day onsite, and the scones are next level. Possibly the perfect scone – light, fluffy and fresh out of the oven. 

Dirty Janes Bowral

The menu is a simple one: sandwiches, toasties, soup, pinwheel sandwiches, light meals such as frittata or quiche, and the magnificent scones. Scones are available in a variety of flavours, my favourite bing the rose scone, which comes with rose cream.

Dirty Janes Bowral

Gluten-free options are available for treats and the high tea.

When visiting on a weekday, it’s easy to stroll in and get a table. Weekends, however, are always busy and full up fast. Bookings are available at 10:00 am, 11:30 am, 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm.

Dirty Janes Bowral

The salon puts up what I consider the best high tea in Bowral, and it’s very reasonably pried too at $29 pp or $32 for gluten-free. There was no problem accomodating us with a vegetarian high tea as well. 

Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral

Each high tea comes with a choice of freshly bakes scones, a daily savoury selection and an assortment of sweets, plus a pot of loose-leaf tea by The Highland’s Tea Company or an espresso coffee.

Kids aren’t left out either, with a Little One’s High Tea for $20pp, including a delicious assortment of treats along with a fruit juice, small iced chocolate or berry swirl.

Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral

Dirty Janes High Tea Bowral

Dirty Janes Bowral Dirty Janes Bowral

Your Vintage Occasion Tea Salon at Dirty Janes 
13-15 Banyette St, Bowral
0457 106 970
yourvintageoccasion.com.au/tea-salon-dirty-janes-bowral

More things to do in Sydney and NSW

Find more things to do in Bowral.

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

The Canopy Precinct at Lane Cove, Sydney

Canopy Lane Cove

The Canopy Precinct at Lane Cove, Sydney

The Canopy is a vibrant new precinct in Lane Cove, featuring a village green and children’s playground, restaurants, living green wall and solar arbour.

Located in the heart of Sydney’s lower North Shore, the Canopy is a destination to shop, dine, play and relax. It also includes Coles and Aldi supermarkets and a 500-space underground car park, making accessing it and grabbing your groceries at the same time a breeze.

Village Green

The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney

This lovely green space has a stage set up for entertaining, and sculptures dotted around.

The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney

Playground

The playground is a special place, featuring a shaded toddler area with slippery dip, tunnel and water pump with park.

The Canopy

The Canopy

Older kids can enjoy the adventure playground which includes the solar arbour, trampolines, accessible swing and the incredible climbing structure. Reaching 8 metres high and over 15 metres in width, the structure includes vertical climbing nets, a fire pole, pommets, sagging bridge, junior and spiral slides and upper/lower play decks.

The Canopy The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney

Sustainability Features

The Canopy was designed with several sustainable features, including a living, breathing green wall, 230 solar panels, electric vehicle charging points and a bespoke galvanised arbour. 

The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney

The solar arbour is a stunning sight to behold. Featuring printed solar cells developed by the University of Newcastle, this arbour in Lane Cove is the only public place in Australia where you can see these cells in action. From 5:00pm each day visitors can trigger the motion sensors to display LED lighting which is powered by these ultra light-weight, flexible and recyclable solar cells. 

 The 20 square metre green wall houses plant species scientifically developed to improve air quality including Philodendron Xanadu, Alternanthera Dentata, Philodendron Imperial Green, Philodendron Hope and Westringia Fruticosa. The green wall also acts as a sound barrier, improves acoustics and cools the immediate surrounding air temperature.

Rainwater Harvesting & Fountain

The Canopy features 90,000 litres of water harvesting capacity, with rain water from the water feature and the building roofs captured and reused for landscape irrigation. The Canopy’s fountain features 46 jets and is going to be very popular in summer.

The Canopy, Lane Cove, SydneyBathrooms

A quick note about these excellent new bathroom facilities, which feature disabled and family areas.

The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney The Canopy, Lane Cove, Sydney

The Canopy
2 Rosenthal Ave, Lane Cove
thecanopylanecove.com.au

Thanks to Lane Cove Council for the additional images.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Where to Find Beautiful Waterfalls in Sydney

Waterfalls in Sydney

Where to find Beautiful Waterfalls in Sydney

Ready to chase waterfalls in Sydney this weekend? You don’t have to look far to fund spectacular plunge waterfalls to satisfy your wanderlust.

Blue Mountains

Katoomba Cascades

Katoomba Cascades

Katoomba Cascades is a small waterfall on the Kedumba River, in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, 1.5 hours west of Sydney.

The cascades can be found in a bend on Cliff Drive, near Katoomba Park. There are some picnic benches in the park, making it the perfect place to stop for a break before heading down to the cascades. 

It’s a short 300 metre walk down to the falls, which takes about 15 mins. It can get quite muddy, so wear closed in shoes and possibly bring a change of shoes in the car.

Read more about visiting Katoomba Cascades.

Katoomba Falls

Katoomba Falls

The Katoomba Falls is a segmented waterfall that is located close between Echo Point and Scenic World, near Katoomba. The falls flow into the Jamison Valley in the Blue Mountains.

To view the falls, you can take the short, picturesque circuit walk starting at Scenic World. The 1.5km circuit, which takes about 1 hour 45 mins, goes through the rainforest, all the way to the waterfall, with panoramic views of Jamison Valley.

There is an excellent view of the falls from the Scenic World Skyway.

Wentworth Falls

Blue Mountains Wentworth Falls

The spectacular Wentworth Falls  are a true Blue Mountains gem, with plenty of surrounding bush walks to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. Head to the Wentworth Falls Picnic Area and the nearby Wentworth Falls Track, which leads past the Jamison and Wentworth lookouts and then descends to the spectacular Fletchers lookout.

Read more about visiting Wentworth Falls.

The Minni Ha Ha Falls

Minni Ha Ha Falls Katoomba Australia via christineknight.me

The beautiful Minni Ha Ha Falls (also known as Minniehaha Falls and Minnihaha Falls) are the reward hikers receive for taking the 1.3km trail down to the bottom of the valley floor. You can swim in the waterfall (be warned – it’s cold!) or just enjoy the serenity.

Get more info on visiting the Minni Ha Ha Falls here.
NOTE: the falls have been reported closed, so check they are open before going.

Southern Highlands

Carrington Falls

Carrington Falls, Southern Highlands, Australia

The magnificent Carrington Falls, a 50m waterfall plunging into a natural swimming gully, is located in the Budderoo National Park in the Southern Highlands of NSW.

The Kangaroo River flows over a sandstone escarpment into the gully below. There is a loop walk that takes approximately 25 minutes to complete and takes visitors to three lookouts with stunning views as well past cascades, waterholes and rockpools. 

Read more about visiting Carrington Falls here

Fitzroy Falls

Fitzroy Falls, Morton national Park, NSW, Australia

The spectacular Fitzroy Falls is located inside the Morton National Park, in the Southern Highlands of NSW, a two hour drive from Sydney or Canberra and 60mins from Wollongong. The 81-metre waterfall is easy to access and makes for a stunning day trip.

Fitzroy Falls are viewable from several lookout points, the first of which is only a short walk from the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre and is full accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Read more about visiting Fitzroy Falls here

Belmore Falls

Belmore Falls

Belmore Falls is a plunge waterfall with three drops. It’s extremely easy to drive directly up to the lookout point and enjoy these stunning views over the Kangaroo valley. There is a 1.8km return walk that can be taken from the lookout to the top of the waterfalls.

Read more about visiting Belmore Falls here.

Central Coast

Somersby falls

Somersby Falls Central Coast

A popular place for family picnics and bushwalking, the Somersby Falls are located on the NSW Central Coast, an hour-and-a-half drive from Sydney.  

The Somersby Falls walking track is a 500m return walk that takes in views of the top and bottom waterfalls. Note that the walk is steep and can be slippery in places.

Read more about visiting Somersby Falls.

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Waterfalls in Sydney

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Visiting Somersby Falls on the NSW Central Coast

Visiting Somersby Falls on the NSW Central Coast

Somersby Falls Central Coast

A popular place for family picnics and bushwalking, the Somersby Falls are located on the NSW Central Coast, an hour-and-a-half drive from Sydney.  

The Somersby Falls picnic area has plenty of picnic tables and free barbecues available, plus lots of space to throw down a picnic blanket and set up your own table a chairs.

Set up either under the shade of the tall trees at the end of the carpark or next to Floods creek before it descends over the cascades.

Somersby Falls Central Coast

The Somersby Falls walking track is a 500m return walk that takes in views of the top and bottom waterfalls. Note that the walk is steep and can be slippery in places.

.The falls themselves can be a bit dry depending when you visit, so the best time is after a heavy rain (but mind how slippery that will make the track and be prepared). 

Somersby Falls Central Coast Somersby Falls Central Coast Somersby Falls Central Coast Somersby Falls Central Coast Somersby Falls Central Coast

There is an $8 entry fee into the park per vehicle per day. The park has coin-operated pay and display machines – please bring correct coins.

There are bathroom facilities available at the picnic area.

Somersby Falls
Somersby Falls Rd, Somersby
nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

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More things to do on the Central Coast.

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Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

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Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

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A Day At Katoomba Cascades

Katoomba Cascades

Katoomba Cascades is a small waterfall on the Kedumba River, in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, 1.5 hours west of Sydney.

Katoomba Cascades

The cascades can be found in a bend on Cliff Drive, near Katoomba Park. There are some picnic benches in the park, making it the perfect place to stop for a break before heading down to the cascades. 

It’s a short 300 metre walk down to the falls, which takes about 15 mins. It can get quite muddy, so wear closed in shoes and possibly bring a change of shoes in the car.

Katoomba Cascades

The trail is a very easy one, making it perfect for little kids to tackle as well. At the bottom of the walk is a bench seat and some shade, and plenty of rocks to sit on. If the weather is warm, it’s a beautiful spot to take off your shoes and go for a paddle in the bottom of the falls.

Katoomba Cascades

The water is very shallow at the base, making it a great spot for kids to splash around.

If you want to keep moving, the walk continues along the Kedumba River to a spot where there is a breathtaking view of the water falling into the valley. 

There are no bathroom facilities nearby, so play accordingly and bring plenty of water. 

If you’re after more things to do in the area, drive to the nearby (and extremely kid-friendly) Gingerbread Cafe, or enjoy some more nature with further bush walks around Leura, Katoomba and Blackheath. If you have children who are too young to take on longer bush walks, nearby Scenic World provides several different ways for families to enjoy the bush without much physical exertion.

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The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.