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.
- 1Lookouts Surry Hills
1. 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.
Opens early (before 7am)Open 7 daysOpen MondaysOpen SundaysView venue4.8(2,535)· Google70Spot ScoreGreat 
2Lookouts Cronulla2. 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.
Open 7 daysOpen MondaysOpen SundaysView venue4.8(1,634)· Google69Spot ScoreWorth a Look
3Lookouts Cronulla3. Cronulla Whale Watching
Combine coastal views with the seasonal chance to spot migrating whales, particularly during migration months (roughly May–November and September–November).
Open 7 daysOpen MondaysOpen SundaysView venue4.9(232)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Lookouts Sydney CBD4. 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.
Open 7 daysOpen MondaysOpen SundaysView venue4.4(16,010)· Google64Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Lookouts Sydney CBD5. 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.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView venue4.8(630)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Lookouts Sydney CBD6. 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.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView venue4.8(638)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Lookouts Parramatta7. Balaka Falls
A western Sydney alternative for those who can't easily reach the coastal lookouts, offering a different environment in Parramatta.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView venue4.3(1,125)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Lookouts Sydney CBD8. 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.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView venue4.7(163)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Lookouts Manly9. 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.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView venue4.8(95)· Google60Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Lookouts Sydney CBD11. Copes Lookout
Round out a CBD lookout crawl with this spot, which completes your options for city views without leaving the central area.
Open late (after 10pm)Opens early (before 7am)Open SundaysView 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 | Opens early (before 7am) |
| Cape Solander | 69/100 | 4.8(1,634) | — | Cronulla | Open 7 days |
| Cronulla Whale Watching | 65/100 | 4.9(232) | — | Cronulla | Open 7 days |
| Sydney Tower Eye | 64/100 | 4.4(16,010) | — | Sydney CBD | Open 7 days |
| Berrys Bay Lookout | 61/100 | 4.8(630) | — | Sydney CBD | Open late (after 10pm) |
| Broughton Street Lookout | 61/100 | 4.8(638) | — | Sydney CBD | Open late (after 10pm) |
| Balaka Falls | 61/100 | 4.3(1,125) | — | Parramatta | Open late (after 10pm) |
| Observatory Hill Lookout | 61/100 | 4.7(163) | — | Sydney CBD | Open late (after 10pm) |
| Burragula Lookout | 60/100 | 4.8(95) | — | Manly | Open late (after 10pm) |
| Mackenzie’s Point lookout | 59/100 | 4.9(60) | — | Bondi | — |
| Copes Lookout | 59/100 | 4.8(292) | — | Sydney CBD | Open late (after 10pm) |
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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