Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo opened on its harbourside site at Bradleys Head in 1916. Its paths climb a steep slope, so there are giraffes and elephants with the Opera House and city skyline behind them — the view is one of the zoo's attractions. Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos and platypus, are a highlight for international visitors.
Allow at least half a day. Keeper talks and bird shows run through the day; check the daily programme on arrival.
Getting to Taronga
The F2 ferry from Circular Quay takes about 12 minutes to Taronga Zoo wharf. From the wharf, the Sky Safari cable car lifts you to the main entrance at the top of the hill, so you can walk down through the zoo and finish near the ferry. Combination tickets with the ferry and cable car are convenient.
Buses from the CBD and North Sydney also stop at the top entrance.
Taronga Zoo ticket with ferry and cable car
Zoo entry combined with the return ferry from Circular Quay and the Sky Safari cable car.
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Mosman, Balmoral and Bradleys Head
Mosman is a leafy, upmarket harbour suburb. Balmoral Beach on Middle Harbour has calm, netted swimming, an island footbridge and a promenade with cafés — very good for families. Bradleys Head, part of Sydney Harbour National Park, has an old fortification, an amphitheatre and one of the best city views from the North Shore.
Ferries also serve Mosman Bay and Cremorne Point, where the Cremorne Point walk gives harbour views most visitors never see.
Kirribilli, Milsons Point and Luna Park
At the northern end of the Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli has the official Sydney residences of the Governor-General and Prime Minister on the water, and Milsons Point has Luna Park, a 1935 amusement park with a giant smiling entrance face. Lavender Bay and Bradfield Park give close views of the bridge and the Opera House.
The North Sydney Olympic Pool beside Luna Park has been closed for a long redevelopment; check whether it has reopened before planning a swim.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at Taronga Zoo?
Half a day at minimum; a full day if you want to see the shows and keeper talks at a relaxed pace.
What is the best way to get to Taronga Zoo?
The F2 ferry from Circular Quay, then the Sky Safari cable car to the top entrance.
Is Balmoral Beach good for children?
Yes. It is a calm harbour beach with a netted swimming area, grassy parks and cafés.
Sources and official information
Facts were checked against these official sources in November 2026. Opening hours, prices and timetables change, so confirm before you go.
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