Canyoning Tour
Adrenaline
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Don't retreat back under the doona this Boxing Day. We've crowdsourced 15 hangover-bashing ideas to make this the absolute best Boxing Day yet.
Now that the big day is over, we have a few ideas on how you can say goodbye to that Christmas food coma come 26 December.
Top things to do on Boxing Day in Sydney
1. Get the adrenaline pumping
If you've been waiting for the perfect time to get that adventure in, why not on Boxing Day?
From getting out onto the water to heading to the skies, it's the perfect way to kick off the last week of the year.
2. Escape to the Blue Mountains
Hankering to escape the city and breathe some fresh (blue-tinged) air? Hop in the car and escape to the Blue Mountains this Boxing Day. A short drive away and otherworldly in appearance (the blue mist that hovers overhead is bordering on fairytale-like), the Blue Mountains is prime "mini break" territory for Sydneysiders.
Burn off excess Christmas calories with a hike up Wentworth Falls, meander Mount Wilson's gardens or relax in a kooky Katoomba cafe.
Book a Blue Mountains escape here or a day trip from Sydney here.
Blue Mountains Scenic Flight
RedBalloon
Blue Mountains Resort Midweek Escape with Breakfast
RedBalloon
Scenic World and Blue Mountains Explorer Bus Pass
RedBalloon
3. Don't cook: Go out for lunch
After a tiring Christmas, there is nothing nicer than a slap-up Boxing Day feast – especially when you don't have to lift a finger.
From a seafood lunch sticky dim sum dumplings in Chinatown to proper pub grub at your local, just make sure you book a table.
Otto Ristorante Six Course Seafood Degustation
RedBalloon
Five-Course Tasting Menu by the Harbour with Wine
RedBalloon
Indulgent Seafood Dining Experience by the Harbour
RedBalloon
4. Take a leap of faith with a tandem skydive
The ultimate bucket list item – but how often does it actually get ticked off?
We think there's no better time than Boxing Day. Stay with us here, we're very serious. Here's why:
- You're not at work.
- It's the height of summer.
- You probably need a rude awakening from a post-Christmas slump.
- You don't have to go far to tick this one off. You can skydive in Wollongong, Newcastle and Hunter Valley.
Skydiving in Wollongong
Skydive Australia
Skydiving in Newcastle
Skydive Australia
Skydiving in the Hunter Valley
Skydive Australia
5. Go to the cinema
Boxing Day is a very big deal for film buffs. That's because it's when you can catch some of the biggest summer releases.
Whether you're off to watch a romantic comedy or want to take the family to the next big kids flick, not much beats settling into a comfy armchair, munching on popcorn and fixing your eyes on that super-sized screen.
With Christmas in Sydney being a summer affair and all, outdoor movie experiences are all the rage on Boxing Day.
Retro Drive-In Movie, Overnight Stay and Breakfast
RedBalloon
9D Action Cinemas - Sydney
Groupon
Event Cinemas
Groupon
6. Spend the day on the water
We may not have a white Christmas Down Under but we do get to make the most of those warm December temperatures. Boxing Day provides the perfect opportunity to get out onto the water. Escape the crowds on Sydney's main beaches and hire your own kayak, paddleboard or even a boat for the day.
Single Kayak Hire in Manly
RedBalloon
Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
RedBalloon
Manly Fliteboard Lesson
RedBalloon
7. Take a harbour cruise
Not a picnic and park kind of person? No worries. Take to the water with a Boxing Day cruise. Sit back and relax as you watch the waves pass you by with your choice of day cruises.
Sydney Harbour Cruise
RedBalloon
Dinner Cruise
RedBalloon
Tall Ship Twilight Dinner Cruise
Adrenaline
8. Wildlife encounters
After a long and hectic year, you might be keen to surround yourself with nature. Maybe get close and personal with one of Australia's critters?
Fortunately, Sydney is surrounded by great wildlife opportunities and a koala cuddle could be just a ferry ride away.
Featherdale Wildlife Park General Admission Entry
RedBalloon
Sydney Taronga Zoo
Viator
WILD LIFE Sydney
Viator
9. Harbour Bridge climb
We were surprised to find out that you could do this on Boxing Day, but we're mighty happy that you can.
Picture this: You're looking down on speck-like city buildings from a 52,000-tonne steel frame while sparkling water flows below and the morning sun warms your shoulders. Goodbye post-Christmas blues!
10. Go for an outdoor swim
From Insta-perfect local creeks to wave-battered ocean pools, Sydney has no shortage of sweet swim spots. Get a head start on those healthy New Year's resolutions and start Boxing Day with a cooling dip.
Our personal favourites include these great spots:
- Queenscliff ocean pool (followed by an ice-cream cone on Manly Beach, naturally)
- Gledhill Falls for adventure and rugged bush surrounds
- Maccallum Pool for harbour and bridge views
Need somewhere good for small children? Quaint and quiet Little Manly Beach has a child-friendly swimming net, relatively calm waters and a cute kiosk serving snacks.
11. TV binge
OK, let's be honest. While everything on this list sounds tempting, this one wins the award for most realistic.
You have more than a few binge menu items to choose from. Here's our handy streaming hub for everything you need to know.
12. Visit a museum or art gallery
Culture vultures and art addicts can get their fix on Boxing Day, too. A lot of the city's art galleries and museums stay open for most of the day. Here's where you can go:
- Australian Museum - 10am–5pm
- Australian Maritime Museum - 10:30am–4pm
- Museum of Sydney - 10am–5pm
- Powerhouse Museum - 10am–5pm
- Art Gallery of NSW - 10am–5pm
- MCA - 10am–5pm
- State Library of NSW - 10am–5pm
13. Volunteer
Volunteering around Christmas is a great way to embrace the festive spirit – and Boxing Day isn't too late. Give the gift of your time and help out a worthy cause.
There are loads of causes around Sydney, such as children's charities, St Vinnie's and soup kitchens that would love your help.
14. Watch the cricket
Join an Aussie Boxing Day tradition and watch the 26 December cricket Test match.
Either watch from home or find a fun sports bar and meet some friends.
Options include the Pyrmont Bridge Hotel and Churchills Sports Bar in Kingsford.
15. Stay at home on the sofa and hit the (online) sales
We have one question: Do you really want to spend the day after Christmas trying to tackle the Boxing Day crowd? Nope, neither do we.
Boxing Day is a very important event in any shopaholic's calendar, but it also turns shopping into a migraine-inducing, elbow-bashing, bargain hunter’s jungle.
Trust us when we say this: be a truly savvy shopper and stay at home. You can bag brilliant bargains on fashion, furniture, electronics, toys and travel all from the comfort of your sofa.
You’ll even find online-only promo codes for extra savings that you wouldn’t get in-store. To navigate the online sales like a pro, check out our full guide of all the Boxing Day sales you need to know about.
What's open on Boxing Day in Sydney
Want to browse in-store? Keep up to date with all the Boxing Day sales in Sydney.
Where can I book Boxing Day activities in Sydney?
| Attraction | Boxing Day trading hours | Where to book |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney Tower Eye | 10am to 7pm | Adrenaline |
| Chinese Garden of Friendship | 10am to 5pm | Adrenaline |
| Jenolan Caves | 9am to 5pm | Adrenaline |
| Stadium Australia | 9am to 5pm | Adrenaline |
| Bridge Climb Sydney | All day | Bridge Climb Sydney |
| Featherdale Wildlife Park | 9am to 4pm | Experience Oz |
| Australian National Maritime Museum | 9am to 5pm | Viator |
| Australian Museum | 10am to 5pm | Australian Museum |
| Art Gallery of NSW | 10am to 5pm | Art Gallery of NSW |
| Museum of Contemporary Art Australia | 10am to 5pm | Museum of Contemporary Art Australia |
Does your company belong in this list?
Restaurants, bars and cafes open on Boxing Day in Sydney
| Venue | Boxing Day trading hours | Where to book |
|---|---|---|
| The Spice Lounge Indian Cuisine | 12:30pm to 8pm | Groupon |
| Six Po Hot Pot | 12pm to 6:30 pm | Groupon |
| Via Alta | 6pm to 7:30 pm | Groupon |
| Sydney Pearl Cruises | 10:45am to 2:15pm or 6pm to 9pm | Scoopon |
| Cicchetti Restaurant & Wine Bar | 10am to 1pm | Groupon |
| Iceberg Dining Room and Bar | Lunch from 12pm and dinner from 6:30pm | |
| Sharon Kwan Kitchen | 11:30am to 8:30pm | |
| Sydney Cebu Lechon | 11:30am to 3:30pm and 5pm to 9pm | |
| Ho Jiak | 11am to 10pm | |
| Harajuku Gyoza Beer Stadium | 12pm to 8pm | |
| Red Pepper Bistro | 11am to 1:30am | |
| The Amalfi Way | 12pm to late | |
| Cafe Sydney | 12pm to 12am | |
| Bathers' Pavilion | 8:30am to 11:30pm | |
| Jang Ta Bal | 5pm to 12am | |
| Ho Jiak Town Hall | 11:30am to 10pm | |
| Chiswick | 12pm to 2:45pm and 5:30pm to 9pm | |
| North Bondi Fish | 12pm to 2:45pm and 5:30pm to 9pm | |
| Eastside Kitchen | 12pm to late | |
| Marigold | 10am to 3pm and 5:30pm to late | |
| Gyusha | 12pm to 10pm | |
| Alberto's Lounge | 12pm to 12am | |
| Totti's | 12pm to 10pm | |
| The Collaroy Hotel | 12pm to 3am | |
| Opera Bar | 11:30am to 12am | |
| One Drop Brewing | 11am to 10pm | |
| Nomad Brewing Co. | 11am to 8pm | |
| The Golden Sheaf Hotel | 10am to 2pm | |
| Darlo Bar | 12pm to 10pm | |
| Jackalberry | 3pm to 11pm | |
| The Dolphin Hotel | 12pm to 10pm | |
| Bondi Beach Public Bar | 10am to 1am | |
| Shuk | 6am to 5pm | |
| Shuk Bakery | 7am to 3pm | |
| Gelato Messina Darlinghurst | 12pm to 11:30pm | |
| Gelato Messina Bondi | 12pm to 11:30pm | |
| Mayflower | 7am to 3:30pm | |
| X23 Asian Fusion Cafe | 9am to 3pm | |
| Cuckoo Callay Surry Hills | 8am to 4pm |
See the latest activity deals for Boxing Day in Sydney
Code
Get $80 off skydives with code
Available on midweek jumps from 28 June – 30 September 2022. T&Cs apply.
Code
Up to 25% off Australia experiences + an extra 10% off with code
Available on activities including skydives, whale watching cruises, day tours, getaways and more. Must purchase 2 or more vouchers. Destinations include Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and more. T&Cs apply.
Code
Get $40 off midweek tandem skydives
Available on jumps until 28 October 2022 on select locations including Byron Bay, Newcastle, Cairns, Melbourne, Hunter Valley and more. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 46% off Sydney Tower Eye SKYWALK tour
Available from 30 June – 31 December 2022 for a 60-minute tour for 2 persons.
Code
Up to 10% off Australia Zoo entry with transfers from Brisbane
Available until 15 December 2023 when you purchase 2 or more vouchers using the code. T&Cs apply.
Code
Get 10% off Singapore experiences
Available on purchases including tickets to Universal Studios Singapore, Gardens by the Bay, S.E.A. Aquarium and ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 60% off activities, experiences and things to do
Available on select dates including holidays like Christmas, New Year's and more depending on the destination when you subscribe to Klook's newsletter. Destinations include Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, Dubai, Australia, London, USA and more.
Deal
Up to 34% off things to do in Australia
Available on select travel dates across Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and more. Activities include day tours, zoo and animal interactions, tandem skydives, hot air balloon flights, jet boat rides and more.
Deal
Up to 90% off
Enjoy big savings on museum, cruise, wellness, and adventure deals at Groupon. Limited time offers only. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 50% off whale watching cruise experience
Available on select dates until 13 November 2022 with Sydney Princess Cruises. Buffet breakfast or barbecue lunch included.
Deal
Up to 54% off Sydney attraction pass combo
Vouchers are valid for 30 days from date of purchase. Attractions include Sydney Tower Eye and Sydney Tower SKYWALK, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Sydney.
Deal
Up to 12% off Sydney combo attraction pass
Vouchers valid for 12 months unlimited entry to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park and Mogo Wildlife Park. Plus get 20% off animal encounters and purchases within both parks and free parking.
Deal
Up to 50% off 4 Sydney attraction pass
Available on tickets until December 2022 to attractions including WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye and Madame Tussauds Sydney.
Code
Get 12% off with code
Available on bookings for attractions, sightseeing tours, airport transfers and car rentals. T&Cs apply.
Code
Up to 12% off Asia activities
Available until 31 July 2022 on experiences including sunset cruises, day tours and attraction passes. Destinations include Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand. Valid for Mastercard holders using Mastercard for payment. T&Cs apply.
Code
exclusive
Extra 10% off Australia activities and experiences
Available on select dates and activities such as V8 racing, tandem skydives, scenic helicopter flights and jet boat rides. Destinations include Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane and more. Minimum spend of $350 required. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 15% off local activities
Available on select dates on activities including day tours, skydiving, hot air ballooning, attraction passes and cruises. Destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Cairns, Canberra, Brisbane, Hobart and more. T&Cs apply.
Code
Up to $20 off skydiving with code
Get $20 off per person when you book for 4 or more. Destinations include Sydney, Byron Bay, Newcastle, Cairns, Brisbane and more.
Code
exclusive
Get $10 off activities with code
Available on select dates on destinations including Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Hobart and more. Minimum spend of $300 required. Activities include hot air balloon flights, skydives, high teas and more. T&Cs apply.
Code
exclusive
Get $5 off activities with code
Available when you spend a minimum of $250 on activities such as hot air balloon flights, rally driving, skydives, high teas and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, Hobart and more. T&Cs apply.
Code
Up to $10 off Hobart activities with code
Available on select dates when you spend a minimum of $300. Activities include winery tours, getaways, high teas, spas, sightseeing cruises, helicopter flights and more. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 55% off Sydney experiences
Available on select travel dates in 2022. Includes sightseeing cruises, tours, attraction passes and more.
Deal
Up to 50% off Australia experiences
Available on select dates, including Christmas and New Year's, for activities such as skydiving, hot air balloon flights, bridge climbing, high teas and more. Destinations include Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Melbourne and more.
Code
Up to 48% off things to do on the Gold Coast + an extra $5 off with code
Available on select dates when you spend a minimum of $250. Activities include indoor skydiving, sightseeing cruises, hot air ballooning, getaways, jet boat rides, spa treatments and more. T&Cs apply.
Deal
Up to 48% off Australia sightseeing tours
Available on select travel dates in 2022. Destinations include Hunter Valley, Barossa Valley, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and more.
Deal
Up to 40% off things to do in Australia
Available on select dates and activities including hot air ballooning, skydiving, sightseeing cruises, whale watching cruises and dining. Destinations include Sydney, Cairns, Perth, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Brisbane and more.
Deal
Australia skydives from $219 + free $20 merchandise voucher
Available on jumps from 7,500ft to 15,000ft. Destinations include Sydney, Hunter Valley, Cairns, Melbourne, Perth and more. T&Cs apply.
Code
Up to $40 off skydiving with code
Get $40 off per person when you book for 8 or more. Destinations include Sydney, Byron Bay, Newcastle, Cairns, Brisbane and more.
Deal
Up to 42% off activities for kids
Available on select dates for activities like whale watching, go karting, sightseeing tours, attraction passes and more. Destinations include Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Canberra and more.
Code
Up to $10 off Adelaide activities with code
Available on select dates when you spend a minimum of $300. Activities include winery tours in Adelaide Hills, tandem skydives and more. Sample price is for River Torrens sightseeing cruise. T&Cs apply.