What's The Weather Like in Sydney in January?
Located on the east coast of Australia, Sydney is the capital of New South Wales. Sydney is a beautiful city that draws visitors all year round thanks to its lively atmosphere, idyllic beaches and wonderfully sunny climate.
How Hot Is Sydney In January?
January is summertime in Sydney and attracts many tourists escaping colder climates. The average daytime temperature in Sydney is generally around 23°C, while high temperatures can reach 26°C.
Sunshine Hours In Sydney
In terms of sun, on average, there will be nine hours of sunshine per day in Sydney throughout January with a 19% chance of a sunny day.
Does It Rain In Sydney In January?
The chance of rain is quite high during January at 43%, causing a lot of humidity. Tourists visiting Sydney can expect to see rain for about 12 days of the month and the average monthly precipitation for January is about 131 mm.
How Warm Is The Sea In January In Sydney?
One of the most popular activities to do in summer (December - February) in Sydney, when it isn't raining of course, is to visit one of the city's beaches. The waters around Sydney are lovely and warm at this time of year, with an average temperature of 23°C.
Hotels for Sydney in January
Pensione Hotel Sydney
If you're looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, but don't want to compromise on quality, then check out the Pensione Hotel : Located opposite the Central Station, the hotel's location couldn't be more ideally situated and its interior exudes a fashionable European ambience, with mood lighting and minimalist furnishings. Guests can come and go as they please, thanks to 24-7 reception.
Royal Hotel Randwick
For visitors who can't decide between city centre or beachside lodgings, Royal Hotel Randwick may well be the best option. A good halfway point between downtown Sydney and the popular Coogee Beach, this chic accommodation comes in the form of a renovated 19th century Aussie pub, and retains much of its original charm and character. There's free parking onsite and a tasty lunch menu on offer at the hotel's restaurant that won't dent your budget.
Beaches for January for Sydney
Beach and surf culture is an integral part of Australian and much of the leisure activity in Sydney is geared towards this. Thanks to its stunning location beside the Pacific Ocean, there's a wealth of beaches to choose from, whether you're looking to catch the surf or simply find somewhere to spend the afternoon basking in the sun. Visitors flock to the city's beaches in January as summer season really comes into full swing.
Bondi
Easily the most well-known beach (and for good reason, too) in Sydney is Bondi. Although it can get crowded at this time of the year, the beach is a real crowd-pleaser as it offers excellent surfing and swimming, not to mention long stretches of gorgeous golden sand for sunbathing. Try your hand at catching the swells with a local surf school before retreating to one of the many cafes or restaurants located nearby.
Curl Curl Beach
To the north of the city you'll find Curl Curl Beach, which makes another excellent place to swim, surf, or simply bask in the sun. It might seem a bit of a journey from the city, but a regular ferry service to nearby Manly makes the beach easily accessible. The beach is home to two surfing clubs and has its own toilets, shower facilities, along with a cafe.
Avalon Beach
If you're serious about surfing, head further along the North Shore to Avalon Beach. During the height of the summer, Sydneysiders flock to this stunning beach to make the most of the swells, although there are plenty of facilities onsite to make the place suitable for family outings too. If you don't fancy facing the waves, you have the option to swim in the beach's rock pool.
staurants and Bars for Sydney in January
The Paddington
Head to The Paddington on Oxford Street if you're in search of somewhere that combines fine dining, an inventive menu and a convivial pub atmosphere. Rotisserie chicken is the real draw at this fashionable new eatery, although the craft beers and tasty cocktails aren't to be missed either. Thanks to a kitchen which is open through to 1am, this is a great place to dine at if you prefer to dine later on in the day.
Da Orazio Pizza and Porchetta
Those who are serious about their pizza should head to Bondi's Da Orazio Pizza and Porchetta, which is quickly earning a reputation as one of the city's best pizzerias. Boasting its own wood-fired oven and herb garden, this beachside bistro works a simple menu, although it's done to perfection. In addition to the mouthwatering pizzas and appetisers on offer, there's also a pleasing wine selection and spritzes, which are excellent for warm summer evenings.
Mamak
For fragrant Malaysian flavours, pay a visit to Mamak, which is located near Haymarket. This wildly popular restuarant buzzes with customers throughout the day, and it's not hard to see why. Roti (Malaysian flatbreads), which come in a variety of flavours, have earned this restaurant its name, although their selection of curry dishes are also very palate-pleasing. The dining style of Mamak is very straightforward, but that's part of the overall appeal.
The Baxter Inn
Speakeasy-style bars have been popping up in cities across the world over the past few years, and Sydney is no exception to the rule. The Baxter Inn is one of the best bars within this category and is somewhat tricky to find, despite its very central location. Once you're inside, however, you'll be pleased by its Prohibition era-ambiance and staggering selection of whiskeys. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and offer a good selection of beers and cocktails.
Things to Do in Sydney in January
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Owing to its reputation as one of the great cultural centres of Australia, there's a wealth of things to see and do in Sydney, which can be tailored to any kind of budget or itinerary. No trip to the city would be complete without visiting the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which has been lording over the harbourside for over 80 years and is colloquially known by locals as "the coathanger". Standing at a dizzying 134 metres, the bridge definitely ranks as one of Australia's defining landmarks and it certainly leaves a lasting impression with tourists.
Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb
Those who are feeling adventurous should try the Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb, which allows you to scale the bridge using a series of walkways and interconnecting stairs. Tours operate throughout the day from dawn to dusk, and there are a number of precautions to go through before taking part, like a a blood alcohol reading and a "Climb Simulator".
Art Gallery of New South Wales
If you haven't got a head for heights and would prefer not to be exposed to the elements, then pay a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Housed within an impressive Neoclassical building, the gallery has been welcoming visitors for over 140 years and showcases a variety of works, classic and contemporary. Keep your eyes peeled for the regular exhibitions which take place at the gallery.
Dates for the Diary
Sydney Festival
Sydney Festival is held every year in January. This major event lasts for around 3 weeks and showcases a variety music, dance, theatre and visual art performances by local and international artists, throughout the city. Most of the events are free and generally performed outdoors.
Sydney International Tennis Tournament
Sydney International Tennis Tournament is also held in mid-January, with international tennis stars travelling to Sydney to take part.
The Great Ferry Boat Race
On January 26th, or Australia Day, you can witness the spectacular sights of The Great Ferry Boat Race (or Ferrython). During this event, decorated ferries race from Harbour Bridge to Manly and back again. Many Sydney locals pack a picnic and gather by the harbour to watch the race and cheer on their favourite boat.