30 Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney

Stunning, sensational Sydney. Where better to soak in this iconic skyline than from a rooftop bar. And Sydney delivers with style, offering over 30 rooftop bars that Iโ€™ve visited and reviewed in the city I once called home. Whether you’re after Opera House views, after work drinks in the inner city, bubbly brunches, or a couple of coastal cocktails, Sydneyโ€™s rooftop scene has something for everyone.

A quick tip before you start exploring. Many Sydney rooftops only open on weekends or from late afternoon, catering more to locals and the working crowd than tourists. So if youโ€™re visiting, plan accordingly or you will be drinking at ground level instead of sky high with a spritz! And with rooftop pool parties in the CBD to the glamour of Barangarooโ€™s sky high spot and the charming elevated pubs in Surry Hills, Sydney really shines from above. So letโ€™s find you, your rooftop bar to suit you.

Rooftop Bars in Circular Quay & The Rocks

Aster Rooftop

Aster Rooftop Bar Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿน๐Ÿธ

Location: On 32nd floor of the Intercontinental Hotel at Circular Quay

View: The best view! Opera house and the harbour bridge!

Vibe: Sophisticated

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes – a must

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes though the bar is inside

Rooftop review roundup: Unveiled in late 2022, this rooftop is what we have been waiting for. Filling a void in at Circular Quay for sensational views of Sydney’s most famous buildings. Positioned as an exclusive venue, reservations are a prerequisite, with a minimum spend requirement of $60 per person (as of 2025). This is for 90 minutes for 2 persons. It’s another hour over that for 4+. This did feel a bit steep but then so are the drink prices, so could be easily spent in that time frame and you are paying for a premium view. With no seating requests taken you’ll want to get there early if positioning is important. That said, I visited twice, totally spontaneously in the summer of 2023 and has no problem getting in and the first visit able to nab the best seats. Maybe it was a fluke as it was still quite new or maybe the rules are just to manage demand. So if you find yourself fancying a drink but didn’t book then give it a go!

It would be remiss of me not to mention that the interior layout restricts the coveted front-row seats to the inside. The rooftop is a small terrace that encircles part of the bar so space is limited. If you do manage to get a prized position outside then you could potentially become the resident photographer. As there is a posing spot to get those magical pictures where you can be sandwiched with two of the worlds most famous buildings. I enjoyed engaging with fellow rooftop addicts, making their day by capturing memorable photos, but I acknowledge that not everyone would want to be interrupted. So if you were planning to be sat sipping al fresco staring at the landmark view, you could be disappointed. I however was not disappointed and I really don’t think you will be when you do walk out and see THAT viewโ€‚- it is everything.

Aster Rooftop Website


MCA Rooftop: Canvas Restaurant

MCA Cafe Sydney

Best for: โ˜•๏ธ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿฅ‘๐Ÿณ๐Ÿฅ—๐Ÿฅ˜

Location: Level 4th of the Museum of Contemporary Art – MCA, Circular Quay

View: Circular Quay

Vibe: Relaxed

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? No

Lift available: Yes

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes though it is partly covered

Rooftop review roundup: If you like lunch with a view then this absolute gem is for you. Surrounded by some of Australia’s most famous landmarks, this was such a treat of a rooftop. However, be aware that if a cruise ship is docked, the impressive Opera House view will be obscured. This is a real rooftop shame as circular quay is too iconic to have it’s view blocked! However the brunch and bubbles were so good it didn’t stop me coming back even though each time there was a new ship in port! Whether you’re in the mood to explore the museum before your meal or simply meet for a casual coffee, this underrated spot is one of my favourite Sydney places.

2025 update: Since my last visit, this gem has been transformed from a relaxed cafรฉ into a fancier restaurant with resident chefs rotating every few months. And if Iโ€™m honest, that makes me a little sad. The charm of this spot was always its informality paired with those unbelievable pinch-me views. You could pop in for brunch, lunch, a coffee, a cocktail or even visit solo. Now it feels much more formal, and while the menu does look incredible, itโ€™s not quite the casual brunch vibe it once had. Next visit, Iโ€™ll have to experience it for myself and see how itโ€™s changed.

MCA Rooftop: Canvas Restaurant Website


The Glenmore Hotel Rooftop

View of the opera House from the Glenmore Hotel rooftop

Best for:  ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน๐Ÿท๐Ÿบ

Location: On top of the Glenmore Hotel in the Rocks.

View: Sydney Opera House – when the Cruise ship is not in port!

Vibe: Pub

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes including a kid menu

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Lift available? Yes – you will need to ask to use the service one

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? No – there is a retractable roof for 70% of the roof!

Rooftop review roundup: One of the most popular spots in Sydney for views of the Opera House. Relaxed vibes with DJs on the weekends this is hugely popular rooftop. Like others though, if there is a cruise ship in port then your views will be blocked. So check the ship status if this is your reason for going. Serving up Sydneysiders and tourist alike since 1921 – this is your sign to go!

The Glenmore Hotel Rooftop Website


Ombre Rooftop bar

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน๐Ÿท๐Ÿ•

Location: In the middle of Circular Quay at level 3 Gateway Building.

View: Just about see the harbour bridge!

Vibe: Chilled fun

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Lift available? Yes

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? No – 70% can be covered

Rooftop review roundup: ‘Let’s get lit!’ With weekend DJ sessions, this spot may lean towards the pricier side, but it is in the Quay! From laid-back daytime chill to party vibes at night, it’s a brilliant rooftop bar for locals and tourists alike.

From August 2025: temporarily closed due to circumstances they didnโ€™t even know were coming!

Bar Ombrรฉ Website


Harbour View Hotel Rooftop

Harbour View Hotel Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿป๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท

Location: Under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Rocks

View: The Bridge

Vibe: Chill

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Just a few floors up, this rooftop doesn’t boast the panoramic views of Sydney, it does however have incredible bridge views. (If you love a bridge view then check out Fiume in Brisbane or 6 Ponte in Portugal ) This hotel was actually knocked down to make way for the bridge and had to be rebuilt in 1922. It is a small informal terrace, perfect for pre theatre goers, hotel guests or if you are exploring the rocks.

Harbour View Hotel Rooftop Website


Henry Deane Rooftop Bar

Harry Deane Rooftop bar, Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿธ๐Ÿป๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน

Location: Palisade Hotel at Millers Point.

View: The Sydney Harbour bridge and Darling Harbour

Vibe: Chill

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes but there is an indoor bar

Rooftop review roundup: Nestled in a somewhat secluded location, this rooftop has earned popularity among locals for its charm. Offering sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour, it’s easy to understand why it became a cherished hideaway. Despite its allure, the terrace’s size is remarkably small. Securing one of the sought-after spots with optimal views, even getting a seat outside, is a gamble. One that paid off for me, but the experience could have been disappointing otherwise. The staff were friendly and helpful. There is a strict no under 18s and a dress code with a old notice from the man it was named after which is a fun throwback. A great rooftop for guests of the hotel to wind down after a busy day.

Henry Deane Website


YHA Sydney rooftop (guests only)

YHA Rooftop views of Sydney Opera House

Best for: ๐Ÿงบ

Location: The Rocks on the YHA

View: Sydney Harbour – unless a Cruise ship is docked then it will be blocked!

Vibe: Young and fun

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes on certain and times

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: When I visited this rooftop was an open space for BYO. Catch ups and sunbathing by residents and those in the know could enjoy uninterrupted views of Sydney opera House (until a Cruise ship was in port!) However 2024 update they have a summer pop up and as such no public or BYO allowed. So still including for my backpackers who appreciate a views without the price tag! As this rooftop is constantly changing including now offering guests rooftop yoga – do check the website for the most up to date offering.

YHA Sydney Website


Rooftop bars in the CBD

Babylon Rooftop

Babylon Rooftop Bar, Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Location: Level 7, Westfield Pitt Street Mall, CBD

View: CBD

Vibe: Bustly

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes – Middle East inspired

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No – there is a retractable roof

Rooftop review roundup: Perfect for a Pitt stop from all that shopping – pun intended! Inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon this rooftop offers drinking and dining in an informal vibrant setting. Great for groups and shoppers alike. This venue transforms seamlessly from a tranquil setting during the day to a vibrant and bustling atmosphere at night, making it a perfect informal spot.

Website: Click here


Jimmy’s Rooftop (Formally The Ivy Pool)

Pool Club at the Ivy Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿน๐Ÿชฉ๐Ÿฅ‚

Location: On top of the Ivy complex in the CBD

View: The City

Vibe: Boujee beach club

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: From the creators of the Coogee Pavilion rooftop, this rooftop has recently undergone a 2024 refresh including a new name. Smack in the middle of the steaming city this oasis awaits. Inspired by the Italian coast line you can have an aperol that matches your sun lounger! Yes I am that person. With daytime exuding boozy beach club vibes, it seamlessly transforms into a rooftop nightclub after dark. Prepare to bring your A-game to this dynamic rooftop experience!

Website: Click here


Zeta Rooftop Bar

Zeta Rooftop Bar view of Queen Victoria building

Best for: ๐Ÿบ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน

Location: On top of the Hilton in the CBD

View: The Queen Victoria Building

Vibe: Cool

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes – light bites

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: On top of the Hilton Hotel in the heart of the CBD, this rooftop bar was the go to open late as a nightclub. Nowadays it’s only open Thursday through the weekend offering a happy hour with a boujee aspiration. Closing at 11pm this is perfect for an after work drink or weekend hotel guests to refuel before dinner.

Website: Click here


Sky Bar

Shell House Clock   Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿฅ‚

Location: On top of the Shell house Hotel, CBD

View: Shell House Clock Tower

Vibe: After work drinks

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No – a lot of the bar is enclosed

Rooftop review roundup: Another old haunt back in the day, still hugely popular and prices that know it is! As one of the more expensive rooftops in Sydney when it doesn’t have a view and most of the bar is inside didn’t feel worth it. For those that work in the CBD though, I can see this would be a perfect roll from the office go to as it’s also super close to Wynyard Station.

Website: Click here


Old Mates Place Rooftop bar

Old Mates Place Sydney rooftop bar

Best for: ๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿบ

Location: At Old Mates Place Bar, CBD

View: None when sun shade is up. CBD when not

Vibe: Quiet

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? There is a secret section round the side

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: A bar that brings something for everyone, whatever the weather or season! Famed for it’s speakeasy bar, it also has a basement tiki bar ‘Old Love’s Bar’ and of course… the rooftop! A super small space that I imagine at one time was the smoking area is now transformed into a cute little rooftop retreat!

Website: Click here


The Rooftop Sydney

The rooftop Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน

Location: On top of the Shelbourne Hotel in the CBD

View: Darling Harbour

Vibe: Bubbly brunch

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No – the roof is retractable

Rooftop review roundup: The name says what it is on the tin! Ironically this is the least like a rooftop I visited in Sydney. though it is quite genius. Coined the name, it is a room on the top they have put in a roof that can slide open. So it feels like you are in a room without a ceiling rather than on a rooftop bar. When I went it was a heatwave so they actually had it closed. Which was disappointing but understandable. With the decor and inspiration coming from the Hamptons it is still a lovely venue. .

Website: Click here


Rooftop Bars in Darling Harbour & Barangaroo

Cirq Rooftop Bar

Cirq Rooftop bar

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿง†๐Ÿฅ™

Location: Crown Towers, Barangaroo

View: Opera House, Harbour, darling Harbour and even out to the sea!

Vibe: Boujee but chill

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No there is an area covered

Rooftop review roundup: One of the newer rooftop bars to Sydney’s skyline as part of the redevelopment over at Barangaroo. 24 floors high this is really is a jewel in Sydney crown. Sensational sweeping wrap around views of the city. Fantastic food offerings and with now a full reservations list – this is one you need to book. Bookings are released 2 months in advanced so be quick to grab the chance to elevate your drinking. As always it’s worth checking on the day if you are being spontaneous!

Website: Click here


Zephyr Rooftop Bar

Zephyr Rooftop Bar at Hyatt Regency Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿบ

Location: On top of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, CBD/Darling harbour

View: Darling harbour

Vibe: Boujee

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 (2025 updated information)

Warm/dry weather only? No – retractable roof

Rooftop review roundup: My photos don’t capture the true essence of the jaw-dropping experience when you step out. This is an impeccably chic bar with breathtaking views of Darling Harbour. The atmosphere truly comes alive in the eveningโ€”my only regret was not seeing sunset from this remarkable spot. 2025 summer update and this Sydney spectacular has gone Mexican! Tacos paired with tequila – I am gutted not to be due a visit down under! Especially as my favourite Paloma has gone blue! And thatโ€™s just the start of their summer menu. So salud Sydney!

Website: Click here


Untied Rooftop bar

United Rooftop bar, Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Location: Barangaroo

View: None

Vibe: Bottomless brunch

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No

Rooftop review roundup: Ladies this is your calling! A floral haven of colourful cocktails that match this colourful fun rooftop. Known for their bottomless rooftop boozy slushies that you can help yourself to! What it lacks in a view it makes up for in its vibe and with plenty of shade this a summer must visit.

Website: Click here


Above 319 Rooftop Bar

319 Rooftop Bar Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน ๐ŸŠโ€โ™‚๏ธ

Location: Darling Harbour on top of the Vibe, Darling Harbour

View: Not much from the bar but the pool is over Darling Harbour

Vibe: Chill by day a bit more lively by evening

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Some small plates

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Nestled discreetly on top of the hotel Vibe, this rooftop bar is a hidden treasure. Attracting primarily those seeking private events and hotel guests, it serves as a secluded haven for Sydneysiders. The pool, reserved exclusively for hotel guests, is rather small with only a few beds, should you be booking the hotel for this. It’s a great little rooftop after a long day for some rest and rose!

Website: Click here


Helm bar

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน๐Ÿบ

Location: Darling Harbour

View: Darling Harbour

Vibe: Relaxed

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? 

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No – it has a vergola roof (invented by Aussies!)

Rooftop review roundup: Downstairs is home to Cockle Bay Yacht Club and upstairs is this sprawling terrace with views over the harbour. An Informal setting this is a family friendly rooftop for catch ups and some cocktails! (For the adults!)

Website: Click here


Cafe Del Mar

Cafe Del mar Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿน๐Ÿท๐Ÿบ

Location: Darling Harbour

View: Darling Harbour

Vibe: A bit boujee

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes – tapas

Booking available? No but you can enquire!

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken:ย 2023 (information updated 2025)

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Cafe Del Mar Syndey, is an off shoot of the imfamous brand ofย Ibizaย fame that also has expanded to beach clubs like inย Malta. Known for their sea settings and sunset sessions,ย ย Sydneyโ€™s version also brings the vibes. With signature weekend DJs kicking off the party mood and cocktails like the โ€˜Sydney Sideโ€™ or the โ€˜Del Mar Iced Tea,โ€™ this rooftop bar is truly a hidden gem, infusing vibrant energy into Darling Harbour. If you have partied in Ibiza, it will very feel different due to its city setting and its more of a homage to the brand. I love them all – whats not to love!ย 

Cafe Del Mar Sydney Website


Rooftop Bars in the Inner City

Elephant Bar at Royal Paddington

Elephant Bar Sydney at Royal Hotel Paddington rooftop bar

Best for: ๐Ÿธ๐Ÿป๐Ÿน

Location: Royal Hotel in Paddington

View: Sydney

Vibe: Summer vibes

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? Yes

Last visited /photos taken: 2023 – the Mirabeau sign was for this year

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Set in leafy Paddington, this rooftop serves as the perfect weekend retreat for Sydneysiders. Positioned above the Royal Hotel, known for its gastro pub style, the terrace boasts sweeping panoramic views across Sydney. Stepping onto the terrace is an awe-inspiring moment, enhanced by an extensive cocktail menu that makes it a definite must-visit destination.

Elephant Bar Website


Brigade Rooftop Bar

Brigade Rooftop bar

Best for: ๐Ÿป๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน๐Ÿท๐Ÿ•

Location: At the Light brigade Pub in Woollahra

View: All of Sydney

Vibe: Summer sessions

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes – no big groups

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Perched on top of this awesome Art Deco pub, who have been ‘serving the thirsty since 1887’. The rooftop is welcoming with arty designs includingโ€‚matching menu design which I loved! Additionally, it offers breathtaking views of Sydney, making it a well-rounded destination for both ambiance and aesthetics.

Website: Click here


Keg and Brew Rooftop

Keg and Brew Rooftop

Best for: ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿป๐Ÿท

Location: On top of the Keg and Brew Hotel, Surry Hills

View: Not much

Vibe: After work drinks

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? No

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: A firm favourite with locals at lunch and after work with a relaxed atmosphere. Providing a whole pizza bar this is perfect for those in need of effortless catch ups. Covered due to the blazing sun – which was needed but a shame as blocked any views there may have been.

Website: Click here


East Village Rooftop Terrace

East Village Rooftop, Darlinghurst

Best for: ๐Ÿธ๐Ÿป๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿน๐ŸŠโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿธ๐ŸทCheers

Location: On top of East Village restaurant and pub in Darlinghurst

View: Sydney skyline

Vibe: Fun

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes including bottomless brunch

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No – there is a retractable roof!

Rooftop review roundup: This has been a top pick since I started coming over to Sydney – it proved a an affordable hang and even played host to a buddy’s major birthday bash! A mash-up of fun vibes, a sprinkle of glamour, and cocktails that are nothing short of fabulous. It’s a colourful wonderful rooftop bar, it’s a shame it has to close at 10pm but it’s also respectful rooftop to the neighbourhood!

East Village Rooftop Website


Rooftop Bars in the Eastern Suburbs & Beaches

Steyne Rooftop – Miami Rice

Mural of a woman cartoon 'see you on the rooftop at the Steyne'

Best for: ๐Ÿท๐Ÿฅƒ๐Ÿป๐Ÿธ๐Ÿน

Location: On top of Hotel Steyne, Manly

View: On top of the Hotel Steyne

Vibe: Cocktail and chill

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes – Asian

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes – though there is an floral indoor.

Rooftop review roundup: Perched on top of the historic Hotel Steyne this little rooftop has been recently renamed to Miami Rice. While the space may not be expansive, it has been meticulously though out and cleverly optimized. The entrance is adorned with clever quirky murals and throw back posters within the hotel, adding to the overall charm. However I had heard and read reviews that the service and food was poor. I cannot comment on the latter as I just stopped for drinks but the service was friendly if a bit a bit slow. But with ocean views all was forgiven.

Website: Click here


EL Camino Cantina, Manly

Tex mex cantina

Best for: ๐Ÿธ๐Ÿป๐Ÿฅ‚๐ŸŒฎ

Location: Manly Wharf

View: The Ocean

Vibe: Fun!

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes Mexican

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Rooftop review roundup: Viva La Mexico! With its panoramic views and a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, El Camino Cantina brings the spirit of Mexico with magical margaritas to the shores of Manly. Sombrero’s and sunshine await on this tequila-tastic rooftop.

Website: Click here


Rooftop Garden Bar

New Brighton Hotel rooftop, Manly

Best for: ๐Ÿท๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿธ๐Ÿน

Location: On top of the New Brighton Hotel in Manly

View: Manly and the ocean.

Vibe: Boozy

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes – need to specify which floor!

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Spanning four floors, this hotel is a haven for dining, drinking, and dancing enthusiasts! The rooftop bar, once known as Shark Rooftop, has been rebranded as the ‘Rooftop Garden,’ making it an ideal spot for pre-party drinks and a more laid-back atmosphere. Shark Bar still lives on below with DJs and debauchery! (So I hear!)

Website: Click here


The Upper Bar

Wine glass at Intercontinental hotel double bay

Best for: ๐ŸŠโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿท๐Ÿฅ‚A

Location: On top of the Intercontinental Hotel at Double Bay

View: Sydney Harbour

Vibe: Chill

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? No

Booking available? Nibbles

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes!

Rooftop review roundup: I was tempted to stay here – visions of lazing with uninterrupted views across to the harbour, cooling off in the rooftop pool. But I needed to more central. However as the bar was open to the public I could still visit. (Though note the pool is exclusively for hotel guests). The bar is very small and limited but they can bring drinks up from below. I felt I had found Sydney’s best kept secret, until the heavens opened! Just a 20 minute downpour but enough that we had to leave for safety reasons. There is a small area where we huddled for a while before conceding defeat! I’ll just have to come back!

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Watson’s Bay Hotel Terrace

Watson's bay Boutique Hotel view

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ—๐Ÿ•๐Ÿน๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿบ

Location: Right by the jetty for the ferry at Watson’s Bay

View: Sydney in the distance

Vibe: Lunching, brunching and bubbles!

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes – need to ask to be upstairs

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No

Rooftop review roundup: From Sunday DJ sessions to great seafood to the stunning sea views – this claimed its status as a beloved Sydney hotspot. As per my usual strategy, I made it a point to arrive early to secure my coveted spot. The rooftop terrace is just a floor above another cherished venue โ€“ a beach bar below so the lack of height wasn’t a problem. Home on the shores of Watsons Bay, this gem attracts both tourists and locals, creating a shared appreciation for the food, beats and bubbles by the beach!

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Coogee Rooftop

Coogee Pavilion Rooftop

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿบ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท

Location: Coogee Pavilion

View: The ocean

Vibe: Fun & a bit boujee

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? A small section

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes though there is an indoor area

Rooftop review roundup: The weekends attracts Sydneysiders ready for lazy boozy days catching up with friends. While my anticipation was high, I found myself not loving it as much as I hoped. I was met by a bouncer mid-afternoon on a Saturday, demanding ID. I had done my research so I was aware to bring it and I would have been turned away without it. Reminiscent of some of the rooftops in NYC. But I wasn’t comfortable they just took a copy of my passport without warning me and the attitude wasn’t inviting. But I could see that if anyone else had experienced this they would soon be half a bottle down and not caring as this is a great spot by the sea. Perfect for summer sessions.

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Icebergs Terrace

Icebergs Rooftop Sydney

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿฝ๏ธ๐Ÿท

Location: End of Campbells Parade, Bondi Beach

View: The Ocean

Vibe: A bit boujje

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: A Sydney staple perched over looking the famous Bondi Beach it is a must visit for newbies to the city. It also attracts celebrities and a splash of glamour. It sits proudly on top of the 1929 historic only licensed winter swimming club in the world! So grab a drink, sit back and enjoy being at one of the most famous beaches in the world from the best vantage point.

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Glory Days Upstairs

Rooftop bar at Bondi Beach

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚๐Ÿท๐Ÿน๐Ÿบ

Location: Bondi Beach above the Glory Days cafรฉ

View: Bondi Beach

Vibe: Fun

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? Yes

Rooftop review roundup: Just as we had long awaited a rooftop bar at Circular Quay that encompassed the harbour views, so had we longed for a rooftop right on Bondi beach. And both came true! Sydney is giving rooftops! This is just a floor above Glory Days cafรฉ with one long terrace facing the beach. Open Friday through the weekend with the motto:

“Calling all passengers on the next flight to nowhere. Because youโ€™ve already arrived in your happy place. Youโ€™ve got legroom as far as the ocean stretches. And service that rivals any private jet. These are the days where memories are made. And this is the place where the weight of the world washes away with the waves. Welcome to Glory Days Bondi, where every dayโ€™s a vacay.” Nothing else needs added!

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Dom Pedros Rooftop

Dom Pedros Rooftop Bondi

Best for: ๐Ÿฅ‚ ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ ๐ŸŒฎ

Location: Campbells parade – by Bondi Ink!

View: Bondi and the beach

Vibe: Fun

Prosecco price: ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿพ

Food available? Yes – Mexican

Booking available? Yes

Smoking allowed? No

Last visited /photos taken: 2023

Warm/dry weather only? No

Rooftop review roundup: Just a floor high this is cute little kitsch rooftop terrace. Part of the restaurant chain focusing on all things Mexican even their murals match the menu theme. Super friendly and with themed nights every night from Taco Tuesdays to Thirsty Thursdays with discounts this rooftop bar would have been my local if I still lived here!

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