Watsons Bay

A charming fishing village perched on South Head Watsons Bay attracts visitors and locals alike thanks to its unique blend of secluded beaches, spectacular coastal walks, historic charm and waterfront restaurants. Appreciate Watsons Bay's wonderful views and colonial connections by walking from the village to South Head. The walk takes in the Sydney Harbour National Park, passes Lady Jane Beach - clothing optional, and continues to Hornby Lighthouse. You'll discover Camp Cove, the spot where the First Fleet landed in Sydney Harbour. You'll see Watsons Bay's most breathtaking vistas are at The Gap - site of where Sydney's worst maritime tragedy occurred when the Dunbar was shipwrecked in 1857. By the time you've finish walking, you're bound to have built up an appetite. Watsons Bay has a reputation for being the place to indulge in a long lunch and a cool beer. Naturally, seafood is a specialty of Australia's oldest fishing village, and you'll find dining options catering for a range of budgets. Watsons Bay Highlights....

Arrive via ferry from Circular Quay - the trip across the harbour is a treat in itself.

Lunch at Doyle's on the Beach or enjoy barbecued prawns with a jug of beer in the casual surrounds of Watsons Bay Hotel, Sydney's only harbourside beer garden.

See the Macquarie Lighthouse, a copy of the country's first, designed by acclaimed convict architect Francis Greenway.

Enjoy great views to the east and west from inside the HMAS Watson Naval Chapel.

Visit Vaucluse House, set on ten hectares, it's the oldest house museum in Australia.

Explore Camp Cove for some snorkelling or to walk along the beach where captain Arthur Phillip first came ashore in Sydney Harbour in 1788.