12 Best Lookouts in Sydney for Views Worth the Visit
Sydney's lookouts offer something for everyone—whether you want sweeping coastal vistas, city skylines, or a chance to spot whales. We've rounded up the best viewing spots across the city, from high-rises to hidden clifftop gems. Each one gives you a different angle on what makes Sydney special.
1
Lookouts Surry Hills1. West Head Lookout
A local favourite with consistently strong ratings, West Head Lookout is worth visiting for unobstructed views across the water and surrounding landscape.
View venue4.8(2,535)· Google70Spot ScoreGreat2
Lookouts Surry Hills2. Bald Hill lookout
Equally well-rated as West Head, this spot offers a different vantage point in the same area if you want to compare perspectives.
View venue4.8(3,492)· Google70Spot ScoreGreat3
Lookouts Cronulla3. Cape Solander
One of Sydney's best-scoring lookouts, Cape Solander delivers dramatic coastal scenery and is a natural stop if you're already heading south.
View venue4.8(1,634)· Google69Spot ScoreWorth a Look4
Lookouts Cronulla4. Cronulla Whale Watching
Combine coastal views with the seasonal chance to spot migrating whales, particularly during migration months (roughly May–November and September–November).
View venue4.9(232)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look5
Lookouts Sydney CBD5. Sydney Tower Eye
For a completely different experience, head to this indoor observation deck in the CBD to see the city and surroundings from above.
View venue4.4(16,010)· Google64Spot ScoreWorth a Look6
Lookouts Sydney CBD6. Berrys Bay Lookout
A quieter option within walking distance of the city, Berrys Bay Lookout is useful if you want accessible views without heading far from central Sydney.
View venue4.8(630)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look7
Lookouts Sydney CBD7. Broughton Street Lookout
Another centrally located spot, handy if you're exploring the CBD on foot and want to take in a view without a detour.
View venue4.8(638)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look8
Lookouts Parramatta8. Balaka Falls
A western Sydney alternative for those who can't easily reach the coastal lookouts, offering a different environment in Parramatta.
View venue4.3(1,125)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look9
Lookouts Sydney CBD9. Observatory Hill Lookout
Positioned near the city's historic Observatory, this lookout merges views with a bit of scientific heritage if you want to combine activities.
View venue4.7(163)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look10
Lookouts Manly10. Burragula Lookout
Located in Manly, this lookout is ideal if you're already visiting the beach and want a vantage point for the surrounding area.
View venue4.8(95)· Google60Spot ScoreWorth a Look12
Lookouts Sydney CBD12. Copes Lookout
Round out a CBD lookout crawl with this spot, which completes your options for city views without leaving the central area.
View venue4.8(292)· Google59Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Head Lookout | 70/100 | 4.8(2,535) | — | Surry Hills | — |
| Bald Hill lookout | 70/100 | 4.8(3,492) | — | Surry Hills | — |
| Cape Solander | 69/100 | 4.8(1,634) | — | Cronulla | — |
| Cronulla Whale Watching | 65/100 | 4.9(232) | — | Cronulla | — |
| Sydney Tower Eye | 64/100 | 4.4(16,010) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Berrys Bay Lookout | 61/100 | 4.8(630) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Broughton Street Lookout | 61/100 | 4.8(638) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Balaka Falls | 61/100 | 4.3(1,125) | — | Parramatta | — |
| Observatory Hill Lookout | 61/100 | 4.7(163) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Burragula Lookout | 60/100 | 4.8(95) | — | Manly | — |
| Mackenzie’s Point lookout | 59/100 | 4.9(60) | — | Bondi | — |
| Copes Lookout | 59/100 | 4.8(292) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which Sydney lookout is best for sunset views?+
The data provided doesn't specify which lookouts are best oriented for sunsets. We'd recommend checking recent visitor photos on maps or review sites to see which directions each lookout faces before you visit at golden hour.
Are there lookouts that are free to visit?+
The outdoor lookouts (West Head, Bald Hill, Cape Solander, and the CBD spots) are typically free public access points. Sydney Tower Eye requires paid entry. For details on current access and any fees, contact the venues directly or check Sydney's tourism website.
How do I get to Whale Watching in Cronulla?+
Cronulla is in southern Sydney, accessible by train or car. The data doesn't specify Cronulla Whale Watching's exact location or access details, so check the venue's website or Google Maps for directions and parking information.
Which lookout is closest to the city?+
The CBD lookouts—Sydney Tower Eye, Berrys Bay, Broughton Street, Observatory Hill, and Copes—are all in or very near the city centre, so they're the most accessible if you're already downtown.
Can I visit multiple lookouts in one trip?+
Yes. West Head and Bald Hill are both in Surry Hills and could be visited together. The CBD lookouts are clustered and walkable. Cronulla's two venues are close to each other. Spreading several lookouts into one day is definitely possible depending on transport and time.
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