Poppy Wall On Family Holidays To Sydney

Poppy Wall, co-founder of Eym, lived in Sydney for nine years – along with her husband and their three young children – before moving back home to the UK last year. Here she tells us everything that makes family holidays to Sydney special.

Who better to get family travel advice from than a parent who has been there and done it. Citizen Enfants asks travel-loving mums to give us the lowdown on destinations they know well; from where they stay and shop to their favourite restaurants and must-do activities.

Packed with child-friendly beaches, attractions and hotels, Sydney is well worth the long flight.

What makes family holidays to Sydney memorable? 

Once you’ve done the journey, Sydney is probably one of the easiest places to visit as a family. Children are happy running around in the warmth or playing in the water, and parents are happy because there’s so much great food alongside sunny days and ocean swims. It’s safe and is a very lovely place to spend a few weeks.  

I have a huge connection to Sydney. I met my husband there and we spent many happy years living in the city with our children. We moved back to the UK last summer to be nearer to family, but I miss Sydney and all our wonderful friends there a lot. It will always have a special place in my heart. 

PIN IT

When is the best time to visit Sydney?

Spring or late summer, so October, November, February or March. The weather is lovely, and it’s not as busy or as expensive as the Christmas period. The Eastern Suburbs are great for kids as there are so many harbour beaches where the water isn’t so rough. My favourite hang-out was a bit of a secret beach – Kutti Beach. But of course for an all round place to spend a beach-day, you can’t beat Bondi. Older kids will love learning to surf with schools such as Waves while little ones can potter in the shallows or swim in the Icebergs, the famous pool on the beach.

Which hotels should we check into for a family-friendly stay? 

I’d always go for an Airbnb with kids, it means when they are asleep or napping you can hang out and not feel restricted to a room. There are so many great ones in the Eastern Suburbs; look at places in Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama, or Coogee. You can find places with stunning sea views, and even direct beach access. If you do want a hotel, Paramount House Hotel in Surry Hills is great and very family-friendly – it also has a great rooftop terrace that serves delicious pizza. Or for a luxe stay check out The Langham or The Four Seasons. They’re both in the city centre which makes them a great base from which to see everything in and around the city. Both have kids’ clubs and great spas for mums to enjoy too. 

PIN IT

What are the best things to do with children in Sydney?

I love this question. Here are my thoughts in no particular order. Parsley Bay is a great harbour beach with a playground. Or walk to a fisherman’s pier – you always see plenty of wildlife en route, including rays and huge eastern water dragons. We used to love doing the walk from Watsons Bay to the lighthouse; it wasn’t too difficult for kids and you get the most incredible views. Just out of Sydney, about a couple of hours down the coast, go to Mollymook or Gerringong and, if you go a bit further, you’ll get to Jervis Bay and Hyams Beach which are possibly the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see. Watsons Bay is very well-known, but it’s a classic for a reason: it’s beautiful, great for kids and there’s a really relaxed beach cafe there. 

If you have older children or teens take them on a guided walk to the top of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge with Bridge Climb. It’s for kids aged eight and over. An adult has to climb with them but the view from the top is worth it. A whale watching excursion is also really special, and you’ll no doubt see dolphins too. 

Where can we take children to play?

We love Bronte Beach and its great playground. Really though, you can’t beat the beach. They can entertain themselves for hours, collecting shells and treasures. Darling Harbour has a super playground with water jets; it’s a nice place to hang out with great cafes. Or head to the Luna Park with a fairground and some bigger amusement rides that older kids will love.

PIN IT

I’ll plan an afternoon for you. Head down to the rocks in South Bondi – it’s a little spot just south of Icebergs. Find a lovely flat rock to relax on in the sun, then jump off the rocks for a swim. After that grab some beers or rosé from the bottle shop and have a few sundowners on the grassy knoll, then head to North Bondi Fish for fresh seafood and great views. That’s my kinda day.

PIN IT

What are your favourite places to shop in Sydney?

There are loads of beautiful clothing and interior stores such as Incu, Above the Clouds, and Assembly Label. Also, a top tip, in Alexandria there’s outlets for a lot of these stores. Well worth the visit. Bondi Markets is a great day out too. 

Any top tips for visiting Sydney with children? 

The beaches are a must-see and must-do. They are some of the best in the world and so family-friendly. Also get a Go City Explorer Pass. It will save you money when visiting attractions and the app gives you maps, tips and itineraries for sightseeing. It’s so handy to have.

What are your packing essentials for yourself?

Swimming cossies – I love Cossie and Co and You Swim, and relaxed beach clothes. I lived in Deiji Studios PJ set, they’re an Australian brand, but you can also get them in the UK. I also love my Airpods.