Family Adventure in Sydney

Sydney's Eastern Charms Unveiled

Today was all about embracing the coastal beauty and historical significance of Sydney's eastern suburbs. From the serene shores of Watsons Bay to the panoramic views from Macquarie Lighthouse, and the vibrant stalls of The Rocks Market, it was a day filled with exploration, delicious food, and unforgettable moments with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Carte in Glebe. This cozy cafe was just what we needed to fuel up for a day of exploring. I opted for the classic bacon and egg roll, while Priya enjoyed the Avo Toastie. Devon, of course, went straight for the pancakes. It’s always a good start to the day when everyone’s happy with their meal! The cafe had a relaxed vibe, and the staff were super friendly, making us feel right at home.

With our bellies full, we set off for Watsons Bay. The drive itself was scenic, offering glimpses of the harbor and the lush greenery of Sydney's eastern suburbs. As we arrived, the fresh sea air and the stunning views of the bay immediately captivated us. Watsons Bay is steeped in history, originally known as Kutti by the Cadigal people, who fished and gathered shellfish in these very waters. Knowing this added a layer of depth to our experience, connecting us to the land's ancient past.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Watsons Bay, a coastal gem in New South Wales, Australia.

Our first stop was the iconic Gap Lookout. Standing at the edge of the dramatic sandstone cliffs, we were treated to panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. The sheer scale of the cliffs and the endless expanse of the ocean was breathtaking. Priya and Devon were a bit nervous about the height, but the secure pathways and safety barriers put their minds at ease. It's a spot that evokes a sense of awe and respect for nature's power.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the simplest of moments, shared with the people we love.

Next, we made our way to Watsons Bay Baths. Though we didn't take a dip, the tranquil waters and the picturesque setting were incredibly inviting. Devon was fascinated by the colorful boats bobbing gently in the harbor, and we spent a good while just watching them and chatting about life by the sea. Watsons Bay Baths offers a variety of watersports, including sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Maybe next time we'll be adventurous enough to give one of them a try!


Experience the beauty of Watsons Bay with its stunning public baths, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying spectacular ocean views.

From there, we embarked on a short drive to Macquarie Lighthouse. As Australia's first lighthouse, it stands as a beacon of maritime history. Designed by convict architect Francis Greenway and later reconstructed by James Barnet, the lighthouse has guided countless ships safely into Sydney Harbour. We joined a guided tour, and I was fascinated by the stories of its construction and the lives of the keepers who maintained it over the years. Climbing the 100 steps to the top was a bit of a workout, but the view from the observation deck was absolutely worth it. We could see the entire harbor, the city skyline, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. It was a truly spectacular sight.


Explore the historic Macquarie Lighthouse in Vaucluse, Australia's first lighthouse, offering stunning coastal views and rich maritime history.

After soaking in the views, we headed back towards the city, with a stop at The Rocks Market. This bustling market is a treasure trove of local art, crafts, and delicious food. Devon was immediately drawn to a stall selling handmade boomerangs, and after a bit of haggling, we bought one as a souvenir. Priya browsed the jewelry stalls, while I sampled some local honey. The market had a lively atmosphere, with street performers and live music adding to the festive vibe. It was a perfect way to immerse ourselves in Sydney's vibrant culture.


Explore The Rocks Market in Sydney: A vibrant blend of artisan crafts, gourmet food, and local culture in the heart of Australia's oldest neighborhood.

For lunch, we ascended to O Bar and Dining, located on the 47th floor of Australia Square. The revolving restaurant offered breathtaking 360-degree views of Sydney. It was an experience in itself just watching the city slowly rotate beneath us as we dined. The vegan menu was extensive, and Priya was thrilled with her 5-course tasting menu. I opted for the yellowfin tuna tataki, which was cooked to perfection. Devon, of course, couldn't resist the temptation of a juicy steak. The food was exquisite, but the real highlight was the view. It felt like we were on top of the world.


Experience the heights of culinary excellence at O Bar and Dining, where modern Australian cuisine meets breathtaking views of Sydney's skyline.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ester Restaurant in Chippendale for dinner. This restaurant had been on my list for a while, and it did not disappoint. The ambiance was relaxed and intimate, with an open kitchen that allowed us to watch the chefs at work. We started with the roasted cauliflower with almond mayo, which was an absolute revelation. For mains, I had the blood sausage sanga, while Priya enjoyed the wood-roasted scampi. Devon opted for the jacket potato served with XO Wagyu sirloin which was last-dish-on-earth material: a roast potato skin filled with bonito butter mash topped with pickled potato rounds Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, bursting with flavor and creativity. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel incredibly welcome.


Experience modern Australian cuisine at Ester Restaurant in Chippendale - where innovation meets tradition in every dish.

As we headed back to The York by Swiss-Belhotel, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the coastal wonders of Watsons Bay to the culinary delights of Sydney's finest restaurants, it was a day that truly captured the essence of this amazing city. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the cultural side of Sydney, with visits to the Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and Saint Mary's Cathedral. I'm also looking forward to unwinding with a drink at the Marble Bar. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of family adventures.


Discover comfort and convenience at The York by Swiss-Belhotel, a family-friendly gem in Sydney's vibrant heart, close to iconic attractions.

I'm also glad I remembered to grab some sunscreen today, after forgetting it earlier in the trip. Still kicking myself for forgetting Devon's favorite snacks and the extra SIM card, though! I guess that just means we'll have to come back to Sydney again soon!

In other news, I saw that the Sydney Writer's Festival is on until the 26th of May. I think Priya would enjoy it, so I'll check to see if they have any events tomorrow that would be of interest. I also heard that Les Misérables is on at the ICC until the 11th of May, but I'm not sure we'll be able to fit it in. Also, I saw that there are 591 upcoming concerts in Sydney! I'll have to check some of them out.

It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel. The chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories with my family is something I'll always cherish.