Looking for the best views of Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display? Here are our picks of the top spots where you can take in the view in all its glory.
It’s that time of the year again — the highly anticipated countdown and fireworks celebration for New Year’s Eve in Sydney. Renowned across all of Australia as the most stunning display of fireworks, Sydney really knows how to pull off a celebration like no other.
With throngs of people making their own arrangements to secure a good place to check out the light show, we figured we should provide our own take on the best places to watch them (including an exclusive location just for you, *wink*). Read on to discover them!
Table of Contents
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Observatory Hill
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Blues Point Reserve
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Bradleys Head
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Sydney Opera House
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Private Boat in Sydney Harbour
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Taronga Zoo
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Cockatoo Island
1. Observatory Hill
Nestled near the iconic location of The Rocks, Observatory Hill is a well-kept secret among locals. The sweeping views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House it offers are the perfect snapshot for viewing the fireworks from a relatively close distance, providing an almost immersive experience when they go off. Just be sure to bring a pair of earplugs if you have sensitive ears!
2. Blues Point Reserve
Every list needs an underrated option, and Blues Point is on our list for that very reason. Sitting just west of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it’s a spot that most locals know about, but for some reason, seem to not take advantage of. Being a small reserve, you can expect to find ample space for picnic mats on the green, provided you arrive early to snag your spot.
You’ll know why Blues Point is on this list from the first light of the NYE fireworks.
3. Bradleys Head
Despite being way over on the east side of the harbour, Bradleys Head has earned a reputation for being a quiet vantage point with a wide panorama of the city skyline. Fireworks take up a lot of space in the sky, so viewing them from a slightly further distance offers a more complete view of the entire presentation. If that’s what you’re looking for, head to Bradleys Head.
4. Sydney Opera House
No self-respecting list would exclude the Sydney Opera House as one of the best (and not to mention, free) locations to view the fireworks. It’s truly the most prime location on this list, with the only downside being the availability of spots due to the mass of people that will be there. Still, the open-air view is worth every bit of effort in getting there early, so we’d definitely recommend it!
5. Private Boat in Sydney Harbour
For those who want to experience the magic of the New Year’s Eve fireworks, without the stress of finding a spot in the early afternoon, we have the perfect option for you. Consider this — you and your closest friends and family, out on a private boat in the heart of Sydney Harbour’s waters, watching the expanse of fireworks above you. Need we say more?
A boat hire is definitely one of the most premium ways to catch the fireworks, and the good news is there’s still time to book one. Whether it’s a small fishing boat or a luxury yacht, Sydney Harbour Escapes can make it happen for you with our New Year’s Eve cruises.
6. Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo holds an annual New Year's Eve event that combines wildlife encounters with stunning views of the harbour. The spaces here are ticketed, but that’s a small price to part for a unique space that is suitable for both couples and families to enjoy the fireworks against the backdrop of the city skyline. Better yet, all proceeds from the ticket sales go to Taronga’s conservation efforts, so it’s all for a good cause in the end.
7. Cockatoo Island
Last but not least, we’ve got to mention the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Cockatoo Island. As a haven all on its own in the harbour, Cockatoo Island offers dazzling 360-degree views of the fireworks display that should not be missed. The island even offers overnight camping packages to avoid the head-home traffic and enjoy a night under the stars into the new year.
Parting Tips to Enjoy the NYE Fireworks
There you have it — our top picks for the best spots in Sydney to enjoy the New Year’s Eve fireworks in all their splendour. Remember to book your spots early, especially if they are as exclusive as our New Year’s Eve boat cruises are, and most of all, have a good time.