Three days of surf, sea cliffs & flat whites

Grab a flat white from a laneway cart here, then wander the waterfront as the ferries start their morning runs.

Take the 60-minute guided tour for the backstage sense of the sails, or simply walk the forecourt and photograph the arches.

Picnic on the lawns with a pastry from a Circular Quay bakery; the Fig Tree Lawn is shaded and quiet at midday.

Climb the carved sandstone seat for the classic harbour view, then linger for sunset light on the bridge if you can stay.

Arrive early for a swim before the crowds, and grab a coffee from one of the beachfront cafés along Campbell Parade.

Swim laps in the ocean pool or try the morning dip; the terrace café is ideal for a long, slow breakfast.

Follow the clifftop path south through Tamarama and Bronte, pausing at every lookout for the turquoise water below.

Finish the walk with fish and chips or a seafood lunch on the esplanade, then cool off in the rock pools.

Take the ferry out for one of the best harbour rides in the world; sit on the top deck and watch the Heads roll by.

Walk the harbour-side path to this sheltered bay, where the calm water and snorkel trail make a perfect slow morning.

Stroll the pedestrian Corso for fresh juice, gelato and a relaxed lunch at one of the bistros near the Ocean Beach end.

Take the ferry back via Watsons Bay for the famous fish and chips and a sunset drink on the harbour-side lawn.