It's not exactly surprising that Sydney is renowned for its rooftop bars. With a harbour that seems to stretch on endlessly, a CBD that glows in the evenings, and beaches that catch the last of the light, this is a city that feels purpose built for sipping a spritz from a high vantage point.
When its sunny, you'll catch us rolling straight from the beach to the bar and soaking up the last of the day with something ice cold in hand. But in winter, these spots don't entirely lose their charm — in fact, we'd say getting cosy on a rooftop bar counts as time spent outdoors in the middle months of the year.
Planning your next night out, and want to make sure it comes with views included? These are our favourite rooftop bars across Sydney.
New Brighton Hotel, Manly
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The views here are genuinely second to none. Perched above The Corso, its perfectly primed for a mix of people watching and beach views. Sip a cocktail, perhaps order some appetisers, and soak in the sea breeze.
The Light Brigade, Woolhara
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The Light Brigade is something of an Eastern suburbs institution, and for good reason. Downstairs has all the makings of classic Sydney pub, but take a few flights of stairs and you'll find yourself on a leafy terrace with unbeatable views of the city skyline. Pro tip: order some pizzas and make a night of it.
Jōji, CBD
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A newer addition to Sydney's rooftop bar scene is Jōji. Situated above George Street, this is where Tokyo minimalism meets Sydney skyline. The space is dimly lit and designed for late-night drinks and dining, with a focus on cocktails, sake and shared plates.
Monica Rooftop Bar, Paddington
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At the top of 25hours Hotel The Olympia in Paddington, you'll find Monica. It’s a rooftop bar and restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu, cocktails, and a focus on long, relaxed sessions in the sun. The space is open and casual, with views across the surrounding suburbs rather than direct harbour outlooks.
The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks
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The Glenmore Hotel is a heritage pub in The Rocks with a rooftop bar that overlooks Circular Quay. If you're looking for those iconic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, then this is wher eyou should go. It’s one of the more classic, straightforward rooftop experiences in the city, operating as a walk-in venue serving classic pub food and drinks.
Watsons Bay Hotel, Watsons Bay
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There's nothing quite like a day spent at the beach, followed by an evening parked up at a rooftop bar, and Watsons Bay Hotel makes that dream possible. This is a beachside pub with a large rooftop terrace overlooking the harbour and back toward the city skyline. It offers casual dining and cocktails, and tends to get (very) busy in the warmer months and on weekends.
Sky Bar, CBD
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Perched at Sky Bar, the rooftop bar at Shell House, you could be forgiven for thinking you'd found yourself in New York. It's sleek and elevated not only in design, but also in its menu. The space is open-air with views over the city skyline and is geared more towards evening drinks than daytime sessions.
The Bristol, CBD
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If you find yourself in the CBD but on the hunt for a more relaxed, late-night setting, then head to The Bristol. It serves cocktails and bar snacks in a casual environment that becomes busier as the evening progresses, particularly with the after-work crowd.
Coogee Pavillion, Coogee
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Coogee Pavilion (or Coogee Pav as its affectionately known as) hardly needs an introduction. This is a large multi-level venue on Coogee Beach, with a rooftop bar overlooking the ocean. It’s a casual, high-traffic space known for drinks, shared food, and a lively atmosphere, particularly during sunset and summer evenings.
Nick & Nora’s Parramatta, Parramatta
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Located at V by Crown in Parramatta, Nick & Nora’s is a rooftop champagne and cocktail bar with sweeping views across the western skyline. There's a strong emphasis on cocktails, champagne and small plates here, and it’s one of the best rooftop experiences in Western Sydney.
