Watsons Bay has been a popular neighbourhood for locals and tourists alike since the late 1800s. It’s located on the eastern coast of Sydney city and is renowned for its stunning harbour beaches, which offer spectacular views of the city skyline, the Harbour Bridge, and watching the sunset.

Sydney may be famous for its stunning ocean beaches, but locals know that the bayside beaches are where the real magic happens. While a stay in Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama, and Coogee gets much of the international and interstate support, Watsons Bay is home to a few charming little beaches that are perfect for a relaxing dip. As any true Sydneysider will tell you, the real gems of this area are the hidden bays of Camp Cove and Lady Bay. These two secluded spots are the epitome of Sydney's understated beauty and are kept secret by the locals who want to enjoy a peaceful afternoon without the crowds.

One of the other must-see activities to take part in while staying in Watsons Bay is the nearby Coastal Walk. After all, wining and dining at the famous Doyle's Seafood restaurant need to be shaken off at some point!

Taking you along Sydney's famous and picturesque harbour, the Heritage Walk offers visitors a chance to marvel at impressive ocean views, discover Sydney's wartime history, and see two of Australia's earliest lighthouses, including Hornby Lighthouse, with its iconic red and white stripes. The walk takes in numerous highlights, such as experiencing the mentioned Camp Cove bay, where the Birrabirragal mob first met the First Fleet, and the magnificent Gap Bluff, which boasts a sandstone chasm and uninterrupted views out over the ocean.

If you're lucky enough to be there during whale migration season, keep your eyes peeled; you might just spot these majestic creatures making their way north.

Discover the timeless charm of the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel on the captivating shores of Sydney. For over 180 years, this iconic establishment has been a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike, with breathtaking views of the city skyline and the bay's sparkling waters.

The hotel offers boutique accommodation and a buzzing beach club, making it the perfect destination for a long lunch or drinks with friends against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. Guest rooms are artfully designed by interior designer Sibella Court, creating a space that effortlessly combines contemporary beach living with relaxation.

It's the place to soak up the laid-back Australian beach culture.

With the hotel located in front of Watsons Bay Ferry Terminal, find yourself in Sydney's CBD in an easy and picturesque 15 minutes. For those headed over to Manly, the ferry route takes around the same time and will see you ready to explore Sydney's Northern Beaches for a change of scene.

Swim

Camp Cove‍

Camp Cove is a secluded and idyllic hideaway that beckons those seeking natural beauty and serenity and is where you will find most locals most mornings.

With its pristine white sand and sparkling emerald waters, this postcard-perfect beach offers the best vantage point to soak up the sun, relish in the fresh salt air, and indulge in a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The little kiosk is reminiscent of European beachside spots where you can enjoy light snacks, salads, drinks, ice cream, and the ultimate refreshing drink, the coconut slushie.

Walk

The Gap - South Head Heritage Trail

The South Head Heritage Trail is an easy hike covering a distance of 1.7km and typically takes around 45 minutes to complete. As you start on this trail, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, the Pacific Ocean, and the city skyline. The panoramic views from the trail will leave you in awe as you take in the beautiful landscapes of cliffs, beaches, and natural rock formations.

Eat

Doyles

We talk about Sydney institutions, and Doyles is exactly that. First established in 1885, providing locals with freshly caught seafood straight from their small hut by the beach. Doyles now offers three styles of dining concepts. Indulge in the a la carte style menu at Doyles on the Beach, or enjoy a laid-back self-service experience at Doyles Garden Bar, located just steps away from the sand. For those on the go, Doyles Fisherman's Wharf is your one-stop destination for takeaway seafood.

‍Drink

Watsons Bay Hotel

A beach club and rooftop bar with one of the best views in Sydney. Not bad for an afternoon listening to live music and watching the sun go down over the city skyline. The best thing is that you’re staying upstairs, so there's no need for transport or heading out of the neighbourhood. How convenient!

Watsons Bay is a terrific alternative Sydney city stay experience offering great dining, a small but authentically local social atmosphere, direct access to harbour ferries, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Live Like a Local in Sydney's hidden neighbourhood of Watson's Bay—a sublime summer-time siesta!

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