Cockle Bay Wharf

Cockle Bay Wharf stretches along the Darling Harbour waterfront on Sussex Street, a vibrant dining-and-entertainment precinct in the heart of Sydney. Lined with restaurants, bars and cafes right on the water, it's a buzzing, cosmopolitan destination with a great atmosphere and lovely views across the harbour, especially lively in the evenings.

The appeal is that concentration of waterfront dining and nightlife in a prime, walkable setting: somewhere to enjoy a meal, drinks or a night out with the harbour right there, with plenty of choice across its venues. With the rest of Darling Harbour's attractions close by, it's a natural focal point for an evening by the water.

With a 4.5 rating from more than 2,000 reviews, it's a popular destination. Individual venues, opening hours and any events vary, and it gets very busy on weekends, over summer and around events, so it's worth checking current details for specific spots before you go — though for a wander along the waterfront, a meal or drinks with a view, you can generally just turn up and soak up the atmosphere.