Sydney’s best outdoor bars are a must as summer begins. With warm afternoons, golden light and a city built for open-air sipping, there’s no better time to head outside.
Whether it’s a breezy beachside beer garden, a CBD rooftop with city views or a laid-back courtyard for lazy afternoons, we’ve rounded up the best places to day drink in Sydney.
The Glenmore, The Rocks
The Glenmore is a true Sydney icon, offering unbeatable rooftop views over the harbour and a timeless pub charm that never fades. With hearty Aussie classics, cold brews and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for sunny afternoons or golden-hour drinks. Downstairs, the heritage interiors and 1920s-inspired cocktail bar add a touch of old-world elegance, making every visit feel special.
96 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
SoCal, Neutral Bay
SoCal Sydney is the perfect spot for good vibes and great food under the sun. With its laid-back outdoor setting, endless tacos and flowing margaritas, it brings a slice of California cool to Neutral Bay. The menu is packed with fresh, Mexican-inspired dishes and smoky meats, making it the ideal place to catch up with friends, share plates and soak in those golden afternoon feels.
1 Young St, Neutral Bay NSW 2089.
The Coogee Pavilion, Coogee
Coogee Pavilion is a local favourite for good reason. With its rooftop bars, sea views and easygoing coastal vibe, it’s the perfect outdoor spot to sip, snack and soak up the sun. Whether it’s sunset drinks, seaside dining or a lazy afternoon with friends, The Pav captures the best of Sydney’s beachside lifestyle.
Ground Floor, 169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034
The Clovelly Hotel, Clovelly
The Cloey is a must for anyone who loves a classic outdoor bar experience by the beach. With ocean views, sunny beer gardens and a laid back local vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a swim or catch up over drinks with friends. It captures everything that makes Sydney’s beachside pubs special, relaxed, welcoming and full of good energy.
381 Clovelly Rd, Clovelly NSW 2031
Icebergs Harbour Bar, Barangaroo
ChatGPT said:
Icebergs Harbour Bar is an exceptional place to drink, combining harbour views with refined elegance and a coastal touch. It’s where timeless hotel bar sophistication meets Sydney’s relaxed seaside charm. With perfectly crafted cocktails, elevated bar bites and an effortlessly chic atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot for a luxurious afternoon or evening by the water.
Crown Sydney, Level 1/1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW, 2000
Opera Bar, CBD
Opera Bar is one of Sydney’s most iconic places to drink, offering unbeatable views of the harbour and Opera House. It’s where locals and visitors come together to enjoy good food, great cocktails and live music from some of the city’s best performers. With its open-air setting, vibrant atmosphere and focus on local produce, Opera Bar is the perfect spot to celebrate any moment, big or small.
Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney NSW 2000
Endeavour Tap Rooms, The Rocks
The Endeavour Tap Rooms is a great outdoor spot to enjoy fresh Aussie brews and hearty smoked meats in the heart of The Rocks. With a relaxed heritage setting and open-air vibe, it’s perfect for long lunches or casual drinks with friends. The focus on local ingredients and sustainable brewing makes every sip and bite feel distinctly Sydney.
39-43 Argyle Street, The Rocks, NSW, 2000 Australia.
Watson’s Bay Hotel, Watson’s Bay
Watsons Bay Hotel has always been one of Sydney’s best spots for waterfront dining and sunset drinks, and the new transformation has made it even better. The upgraded Top and Mid Decks offer stunning harbour views and the perfect setting for summer cocktails or seaside celebrations. With its fresh menu and relaxed coastal vibe, it remains Sydney’s ultimate destination for sun-soaked afternoons by the water.
1 Military Rd, Watsons Bay NSW 2030.
The Vic on the Park, Marrickville
Vic on the Park is a Marrickville favourite with some of the best outdoor vibes in the Inner West. The spacious deck is perfect for beers with friends, live music or watching a game in the sun. With great pub food, happy hour deals and a laid back community feel, it’s the go to spot for a classic Sydney afternoon.
2 Addison Road, Marrickville, New South Wales 2204
The Winery, Surry Hills
The Winery in Surry Hills is one of Sydney’s best outdoor bars, known for its leafy wine garden and fairy light charm. It’s perfect for long lunches, bottomless brunches or sunset drinks surrounded by greenery. With over 30 wines by the glass and a European-inspired menu, it’s the ultimate spot to unwind and enjoy the city’s relaxed, social energy.
285a Crown Street, Surry Hills, 2010.
Felons Brewing Co., Manly
Felons Manly is a must visit outdoor bar that perfectly captures Sydney’s coastal spirit. Set right on the waterfront, it’s ideal for sunny afternoons with a cold craft beer in hand. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, standout woodfired pizzas and unbeatable harbour views make it one of Manly’s most vibrant spots to relax and unwind.
E. Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095.
The Newport, Newport
The Newport is one of Sydney’s best outdoor bars, offering a relaxed coastal atmosphere with stunning views over Pittwater. Surrounded by lush gardens and open-air dining spaces, it’s perfect for sunny afternoons or laid-back evenings with friends. With great food, refreshing drinks and plenty of space to unwind, it’s a true Northern Beaches favourite.
2 Kalinya St, Newport NSW 2106
ChatGPT said:
If you enjoyed these outdoor spots and want to try something a little more secretive, you must visit our guide to Sydney’s best hidden bars where the city’s coolest drinking spots are waiting to be discovered.
