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Chinamans Beach — Image credit: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Chinamans Beach

This 250 metre stretch of sand is at the northern perimeter of Mosman, one of Sydney’s most genteel residential enclaves. Chinaman’s Beach is well inside Middle Harbour so there’s nary a wave to be seen, making it a great place for a relaxed swim, picnic and a splash about for the kids. The better known and much busier Balmoral Beach is a one kilometre walk around the rocks to the south, so a visit to both is easily done on the same day. The bay in front of the beach, known as Shell Cove, is a popular spot for yachties to pull in and throw an anchor over before diving in for a swim.

Mosman NSW

0.9 km away

Cobblers Beach

Natural Attractions

Cobblers Beach

For a mini-holiday without leaving town, Cobblers Beach is a picturesque cove, ideal for swimming and picnicking; great for taking time out from a hectic city schedule. Nestled in bushland on the northern edge of Middle Head, near Mosman, enjoy expansive views across the scenic foreshore to Dobroyd Head and Grotto Point Lighthouse. Spend a relaxing afternoon snorkelling or paddling the tranquil waters. If you forget your swimmers don’t worry; it’s a designated nude bathing spot. If you’re in the mood to explore, walk the Don Goodsir track to the 1801 Forts, which highlight Sydney’s colonial past.

Mosman NSW

1.1 km away

Grotto Point Lighthouse — Image credit: NSW Government

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Grotto Point Lighthouse

If you've ever dreamed of the life of a lighthouse-keeper, why not visit the historic Grotto Point Lighthouse and imagine what it's been like to live and work there? This active beacon, located on a rocky headland near Dobroyd Head, lights the way across the scenic northern waters of Sydney Harbour National Park, near Manly. Sometimes referred to as the Disney Castle', its distinct features were designed by Maurice Festu in 1910. While taking in the marvellous views out to the Tasman Sea, keep an eye to the skies for cormorants and white-breasted sea eagles. Accessed along a short track, off Manly Scenic Walkway, a well-marked path leads through a stand of smooth pink-barked angophoras. In spring, these iconic trees of the Sydney sandstone shed their bark to reveal a new orange layer. Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch. Take a virtual tour of Grotto Point Lighthouse captured with Google Street View Trekker.

North Harbour NSW

1.1 km away

Middle Head Oval

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Middle Head

Located on the tip of the Mosman peninsula, homeland of the Borogegal People, Middle Head boasts scenic coastal walks and views across Middle Harbour to North Head Sanctuary in Manly. Visitors can unwind at a boutique cafe or restaurant, get into the swing of things at a harbourside tennis court, take a dip at one of the nearby beaches and discover decommissioned military infrastructure set within lush coastal bushland. Plus, a network of scenic trails and roads link Middle Head to Balmoral Beach and other nearby attractions as well as the neighbouring precincts that makeup Headland Park – Georges Heights and Chowder Bay.

Mosman NSW

1.2 km away

Puppy Yoga Sydney!

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Yoga Paws - Sydney

Sydney, meet your new obsession - puppy yoga has arrived. They're bringing playful pups and feel-good movement to Mosman, Newtown and Bondi Junction every weekend - and no, you don't need to touch your toes to join. At Yoga Paws, the only requirement is that you like dogs. Each 60-minute session blends light yoga with joyful puppy interaction, giving you a chance to breathe, stretch and smile while pups build confidence in a calm, positive setting. These aren't performance classes - they're low-pressure, high-happiness experiences made for everyone. Whether you're here for the yoga or the puppy cuddles (or both), you'll leave feeling lighter, happier and maybe a little covered in fur. They work with rescue groups and ethical breeders to ensure every pup is safe, relaxed and supported - and many even meet their future humans during class. Yoga Paws has sold out sessions in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth - now it's Sydney's turn. Their events run every Saturday and Sunday, with more to come as demand grows. Come solo, bring a friend or make it a date - your weekend just got a lot fluffier.

Mosman NSW

1.3 km away

Georges Heights scenic views

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Georges Heights

Looking for things to do in Sydney? Georges Heights is a place where you can enjoy the great outdoors and learn about military history. A short drive from Mosman Village, Georges Heights is popular with locals and visitors alike owing to its cafe culture, thriving artistic community and stunning coastal bushland. A major drawcard is Georges Head Lookout. Perched on the ridge above Chowder Bay, the lookout features heritage gun emplacements dating back to the 1870s as well as a tranquil greenspace with a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour, encompassing the cityscape and Vaucluse foreshore. Meanwhile, a network of scenic trails link Georges Heights to the neighbouring precincts of Headland Park as well as Balmoral Beach, Taronga Zoo and other attractions. Georges Head Lookout is the ideal spot for a picnic with family and friends. The Lookout can be accessed via Suakin Drive and links to Chowder Bay via the scenic Bungaree Walkway. Want to learn more about the military history of Georges Heights? Book their 90-minute Tunnels and Gunners Tour with their knowledgeable volunteer guide.

Mosman NSW

1.4 km away

Picnic at Chowder Bay

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Chowder Bay at Headland Park, Mosman

Located directly on Sydney Harbour, Chowder Bay is a precinct of Headland Park, Mosman – homeland of the Borogegal People. The coastal retreat is a popular destination owing to its proximity to the water, scenic walking trails and charming eateries; namely, Ripples Chowder Bay, L'Heritage and Cafe La Mer. Visitors can dive or snorkel at Chowder Bay to come face to face with local marine life or head to the netted beach at nearby Clifton Gardens for a swim. If you'd prefer to keep your head above water, you can kayak along the picturesque foreshore. Ensure you keep your eyes peeled for visiting penguins, seals and whales. Looking for an idyllic picnic spot on the harbour? Clifton Gardens Reserve features a shaded playground, a large lawn, sheltered seating and barbeques, making it the ideal spot for a picnic with family and friends. A network of scenic trails and roads link Chowder Bay to other nearby attractions including the neighbouring precincts that makeup Headland Park – Georges Heights and Middle Head.

Mosman NSW

1.4 km away

Georges Heights

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Headland Park, Mosman

Explore one of Sydney's great harbourside attractions at Headland Park. Located on the Mosman peninsula, homeland of the Borogegal People, Headland Park comprises of 3 precincts – Georges Heights, Middle Head and Chowder Bay. Formerly occupied by defences forces, Headland Park features military remnants, coastal bush walks with distinctive harbour views and heritage buildings, sympathetically re-purposed by artists, cafes and other local businesses. Wander along peaceful walking tracks that take you through natural bushland and scenic outlooks with spectacular harbour views. Discover the rich tapestry of defence history, including a WWI-era military hospital and underground defence forts. The showpiece of Headland Park is Georges Heights Lookout. Marvel at the stunning panoramic views of Sydney Heads, the Pacific Ocean, the eastern suburbs and the city skyline. Soak up the bushland setting and authentic French cuisine at Frenchy's Cafe or enjoy morning, afternoon tea or lunch in the historic settings of the Tea Room Gunners Barracks or Burnt Orange.

Mosman NSW

1.4 km away

Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site

Sydney Harbour National Park is home to several known rock engravings made by the region's Aboriginal inhabitants. Fascinating, well-preserved and etched into the Sydney basin sandstone, these images include humans, marine and land animals and more. Grotto Point at Dobroyd Head is one of the best places to see these rock engravings up close. Look carefully along the side of the trail to see a giant kangaroo, boomerangs, a whale and several small fish. The site features timber enclosures protecting the engravings and you can learn all about them from the informative signs. For more of a taste of the park's rich Aboriginal past, look for axe-grinding grooves around the harbour foreshores and along creek lines. Remember to take your binoculars if you want to whale watch from nearby Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head. Take a virtual tour of Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Clontarf NSW

1.5 km away

Castle Rock Beach, Clontarf — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Castle Rock Beach

If you're tackling the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk, you'll pass this little slice of beach early on the route. Just 30 metres long and 5 metres wide with a large freestanding boulder in the shallows, Castle Rock Beach is a picture-perfect place to swim. Protected by bushland-covered sandstone slopes, it's a secluded spot to relax when the sun's shining and is a great place to catch a sunset. Castle Rock Beach is only accessible on foot and includes a few sets of worn stone steps to reach the sand, so make sure you're wearing sturdy walking shoes.

Clontarf NSW

1.5 km away

Middle Head – Gubbuh Gubbuh

Natural Attractions

Middle Head – Gubbuh Gubbuh

Middle Head Gubbah Gubbah is a superb lookout in Sydney Harbour National Park. From this outstanding vantage point you can follow ocean views to the horizon, framed by North and South Heads. The panoramic view extends to Sydney's eastern suburbs, Middle Harbour and Manly. In addition to sensational views, you can learn about Middle Head's military significance. Follow Govenors Road past the of 19th century cottages to the Inner Middle Head Fort. Here you'll find 2 large gun emplacements sitting atop a tunnel network once used for shelter and ammunition storage. Continue south to Outer Middle Head and explore the maze of gun emplacements, canons, tiger cages' and structures dating from the 1800s to 1960s, built to protect Sydney from potential invasion. Discover what life was like for the people who trained and worked here. Gain new insights with historic photographs, interpretive signage, and online videos. On a hot day you might want to wander down to Cobblers Beach (nude bathing permitted) for a dip and enjoy this picturesque cove. But if you prefer a few hours of gentle hiking instead, follow the Middle Head Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head walking track which guides you 3km...

Mosman NSW

1.6 km away

Georges Head

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Georges Head

With 150 years of military history, as well as outstanding Sydney Harbour views, a visit to Georges Head is a must for military history buffs. The Georges Head battery is located near Mosman, on the northern side of Sydney Harbour. Explore military fortifications from the Second World War (WW2) era and take a walk around the headland to see the observation tower and WW2 gun emplacements. You can examine the parapet cut into sandstone at the start of the 19th century to ward off a feared French invasion, or explore a series of interlinking tunnels and passageways that were excavated after the withdrawal of British colonial troops garrisoned in Sydney. Pack a picnic to enjoy at Belvedere lookout while soaking up spectacular views of Sydney Harbour looking out to South Head and North Head. On a hot day you might want to explore further and wander down to Chowder Bay for a swim. But if you prefer a few hours of gentle hiking instead follow the Middle Head Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head walking track which guides you 3km to Middle Head.

Mosman NSW

1.7 km away

Chowder Bay – Gooree

Natural Attractions

Chowder Bay – Gooree

For a taste of natural beauty in the heart of the city, head for Chowder Bay, near Mosman, in the northern precinct of Sydney Harbour National Park. Located along Bradleys Head to Chowder Head walk, it's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. With plenty of facilities and large grassy areas for the kids and spectacular harbour views, it's a fun and relaxing day out for the family without leaving town. From the picturesque palm-dotted beach, you'll gaze across the scenic waterways to South Head. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the calm waters and unpack the picnic hamper on one of the shady tables. The nearby historic military buildings and Clifton Gardens Wharf now house lively cafs and restaurants. For the more adventurous, it's a popular spot for scuba diving, and a welcome pit stop on the popular Harbour Bridge to Spit Bridge walking track.

Mosman NSW

1.8 km away

Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace — Image credit: Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace

Entertainment Venues

Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace

Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace is Sydney's home of special event cinema since 1935. Iconic and independent Art Deco six-screen cinema complex nestled in the northern suburbs of Sydney in Cremorne. Specialising in new-release cinema, retro screenings, live music and comedy, premieres and events, Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace is the vintage visit to the pictures of your dreams.

Cremorne NSW

2.0 km away

Clontarf Reserve — Image credit: Northern Beaches Council

Natural Attractions

Clontarf Reserve

A Middle Harbour Beach with views of The Spit, Clontarf Reserve offers gentle paddles in the open water or within the netted pool area. The golden sand is backed by a large, grassy reserve complete with Clonny's café and kiosk, an excellent playground, and plenty of space for picnics and games. Well-suited to all-day beach endeavours with the shady reserve to retreat to come midday, showers, toilets, change rooms, and a carpark, this little harbour beach is a family favourite. Parking is limited so it is best to arrive early to find a spot.

Clontarf NSW

2.1 km away

Sirius Cove

Natural Attractions

Sirius Cove

Sirius Cove is a beautiful, protected beach with plenty of shade on the grassy area behind the beach. This is a very popular spot with families and dog lovers, and parking can be hard to come by on the weekends. The cove is located at the end of Sirius Cove Road and can be reached on foot from the zoo and Bradleys Head via the harbour walking track. Sirius Cove is a dog friendly beach, with off-leash access all day on weekdays, and before 9am and after 4pm on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays.

Mosman NSW

2.2 km away

Bradleys Head Amphitheatre

Natural Attractions

Bradleys Head Amphitheatre

Bradleys Head Amphitheatre is an exceptionally popular lookout in Sydney Harbour National Park. Photographers flock to the site to capture its breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Fort Denison. As well as offering first-class views, Bradleys Head Amphitheatre is a much-loved picnic area. You can also wander out to the old stone jetty for some fishing, or set off on one of Bradleys Head’s beautiful bushwalks. Oh, and engaged Sydneysiders take note – it’s regarded as one of the city’s best outdoor wedding locations. You can even hold your reception at Athol Hall.

Mosman NSW

2.3 km away

Wild Ropes at Taronga Zoo Sydney - Adults and Juniors Course — Image credit: Taronga Zoo Sydney

Amusement and Theme Parks

Wild Ropes at Taronga Zoo Sydney

See Sydney from new heights on Taronga Zoo Sydney's exhilarating high ropes course, the ultimate aerial adventure! Challenge yourself as you navigate suspension bridges, climbing walls, flying foxes and more against stunning views of Sydney Harbour, all just a short 12-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay. Experience nature from a new perspective and look down below as you swing through the tree tops above native Australian animals. Complete Wild Ropes on its own at a pace that suits you with course duration ranging from approximately 45 minutes to two hours, or add it to your Zoo visit for an all day epic adventure. With four adrenaline-fuelled Wild Ropes courses, climbs are suitable for kids through to adults - just choose your challenge, strap on a helmet and harness, and get ready to climb!

Mosman NSW

2.3 km away

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head

Natural Attractions

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head

Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head offers fantastic views over to North Head and South Head and the expansive Pacific Ocean. Named in honour of Aboriginal man Arabanoo, the first Aboriginal man to live among European settlers, the lookout is a great spot for some whale watching. There are a few signs and monuments around the lookout that provide some historical information about the significance of the area. Arabanoo lookout is at Balgowlah Heights and is easily accessible by car and public transport or as a short detour along the walk from The Spit to Manly. Take a virtual tour of Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

2.4 km away

Sir Edward Hallstrom Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Sir Edward Hallstrom Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Sir Edward Hallstrom who cared deeply about animal conservation and remains one of Taronga Zoo's most generous private benefactors, donating to animal upkeep and breeding programs. Visit the blue plaque at Taronga Zoo, Bradley's Head Road, Mosman and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Mosman NSW

2.4 km away

Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk

Natural Attractions

Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk

The views along Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk are almost too good to be true. The gentle 4km bush track weaves around the harbour headlands from Taronga Zoo Wharf around Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay and is guaranteed to impress. You can see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s most famous icons, in all their glory. Watch the boats glide by from Bradleys Head Amphitheatre or step into the past at Military relics at Bradleys Head. Come face-to-face with wildlife and ancient trees, and stop for a drink at heritage-listed Athol Hall or a Chowder Bay cafe. The Harbour Bridge to The Spit Bridge walking track continues past Chowder Bay if you feel like a longer walk. Once you’ve explored this exquisite part of Sydney Harbour you’re sure to want to walk more of Sydney's coastal walking tracks

Mosman NSW

2.7 km away

Reef Beach

Natural Attractions

Reef Beach

Reef Beach offers the chance to kick back in your own hometown, even if it’s only for an afternoon. This pretty spot, tucked away at Dobroyd Head, has incredible views across Sydney’s North Harbour to Manly. Make it a pit stop while walking the famous Manly Scenic Walkway, or pack a picnic and spend the day. Pause at the bench on the nearby boardwalk and take in the beautiful views. At low tide, you might even be able to spot some Aboriginal carvings in the rocks Dive in for a refreshing swim at this lovely spot – you’re bound to want to return. After exploring the beach take in the scenic view from nearby Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

2.7 km away

Giraffes

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Taronga Zoo Sydney

One of Sydney's most famous attractions, the award-winning Taronga Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, including Australian native wildlife, as well as rare and endangered exotic animals. Taronga Zoo Sydney’s beautiful outdoor harbourside location provides you with the chance to connect with animals and nature and enjoy time safely with family and friends. Overlooking the magnificent Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes from the city by ferry. Open 365 days a year, admission includes daily keeper talks and presentations.

Mosman NSW

2.7 km away

Spit to Manly Walk, Sydney — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Forty Baskets Beach

With an enclosed Middle Harbour tidal pool and a boardwalk on one side, this pretty beach is set along the Spit to Manly Walk and is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. There's a small, grassy reserve shaded by a few Norfolk Pines for post or pre-swim lounging, and a swing set to entertain small ones. You can wander along the walk a little to work up a sweat and take in the views of the harbour. Find the beach via stairs from above Beatty Street (where you can park) in Balgowlah or by walking along the shoreline from North Harbour Reserve, both of which makes it a little less accessible than other harbour beaches. However, if you're able to make your way there, you'll be rewarded with one of Northern Sydney's most picturesque swim spots.

Balgowlah Heights NSW

2.8 km away

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