The local's guide to an active Sydney summer from sunrise swims to park yoga

If you’re looking to get into hikes, try out this accessible trail in the Blue Mountains. Located in Gundungurra Country, this 19km one-way track is adored by Time Out Sydney’s Travel & News writer, Winnie. This scenic, beginner-friendly hike stretches from Wentworth Falls through to Katoomba, complete with the Jamison Valley as a picturesque backdrop.

This boutique Surry Hills spot caters to all your wellness needs with a shared bathing space that’s both intimate and communal. From sound baths to guided sessions, a sauna, cold plunge and aufguss ritual inspired by the Nordic tradition and floating aquatic bodywork, Watsu, you can move through this community-driven space at your own pace, fostering a luxe self-care experience through intention.

Whether you’re opting for a quick dip or gearing up to do laps, this harbourside pool serves as a prime spot. Named after the decorated swimmer, Andrew ‘Boy’ Charlton, who contributed to the pool’s rich history with his many triumphs here, this locale sits right near the Royal Botanic Garden so you can truly make a day out of it.

Ready to SUP? This stand-up paddleboarding experience pairs stunning beach views with tranquil waters for a unique outdoor activity. With a prime location in Sydney, you can pick between a day trip up north or simply SUP in La Perouse. Plus, you can go it solo, book in the family or gather the gang for a group booking.

Shake up your routine with a kayaking experience and explore Sydney Harbour from a new angle, literally. During this one-of-a-kind kayaking session, not only will you see iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Luna Park up close, but you’ll also level up your day catching an incredible sunrise or sunset on the water.

This North Sydney staple is welcoming swimmers once more. Marked as a heritage-listed pool, it reopened in August of this year and now boasts a refurbished 50m outdoor pool, restored Art Deco finishings and a new, stacked cafe. Sitting adjacent to Luna Park, it’s the perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer’s day.

Add a wellness escape to your Sydney trip hit list. This eco-retreat pairs yoga, meditation and bushwalks with serene surrounds, so you can slow down and enjoy a screen-free stay. Plus, there’s an expansive aqua-therapy pool, open year-round, that’s filled with mineral-rich magnesium water for you to dip into day or night.

Take a hike! For experienced hikers, or beginners looking to level up, this walking track in the city’s west is calling your name. You can traverse through the 1.8km trail in the Glenbrook area of Blue Mountains National Park, accompanied by views of the Nepean River. And if you need to cool off, take a swim break.

Start your Sunday morning with a yoga session under one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll work your way through a program centred on mobility, flexibility and strength led by the seasoned resident instructor at Dawes Point Park – and it’s BYO mat. The best part? It’s free! So you can hop along and join the crew as you please.

This sauna cruise is a luxe eco-wellness experience on the water. Spend an afternoon onboard this floating sanctuary anchored in Berry’s Bay with views of Walsh Bay and the Harbour Bridge. This is where you can hit up a handcrafted cedar sauna and mineral plunge pools. Whether you opt for the exclusive solo experience or not, you’ll score a hot cuppa of herbal tea and cement your time with a mangrove tree planted in your name.