Are you new to Sydney, wanting to explore and seize the summer but on a budget?
Or are you worried about saving up for rent and utilities, while your friends are posting Insta stories with all the summer fun, leaving you with major FOMO?
Don’t worry. Here’s how you can make the most of Sydney’s summer without breaking the bank.
Beach, Please!
First things first: Sydney’s beaches are chef’s kiss. And guess what? They’re free (unless you’re lured into a $15 smoothie trap, but we don’t talk about that).
- Bondi to Coogee Walk: Strap on those comfy shoes and flex your Instagram feed with those killer coastal views. Bonus: free saltwater spray for your face, hydrating and scenic.
- Manly Beach: Catch a ferry (Opal card gang, rise up!) and pretend you’re on the set of some bougie travel vlog.
- Shelly Beach: Snorkel, tan, repeat. Bring snacks unless you’re cool with spending $7 on a single scoop of gelato.
Sydney’s great outdoors is the place to be in summer, and it costs almost nothing to explore:
(The Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains. Photo credit: Celia Ferreira, 2022)
- Royal Botanic Garden: Pack some snacks, lay out a blanket, and call it a picnic. You’ll feel fancy without spending a dime, surrounded by beautiful plants and great vibes. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge while soaking in the natural beauty of the garden.
- Sydney Observatory: Stargazing? Absolutely free. Impressing your date with fun astronomy facts you just Googled? Priceless. Whether you’re just looking up at the stars or learning about the universe, it’s a night well spent under the Sydney skies.
- Night Markets: From mouthwatering food stalls to quirky trinkets, markets like Chinatown Night Market offer a unique vibe and incredible smells. It’s a sensory experience and a chance to discover local culture, all while enjoying delicious eats.
- Blue Mountains: Hop on a train for just $10 and be transported to epic views that are so stunning, they could be straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re hiking or simply taking in the scenery, the Blue Mountains are a breathtaking way to escape the city without breaking the bank.
- Kayaking at Lane Cove: Affordable, relaxing, and a solid arm workout, kayaking in Lane Cove lets you enjoy the outdoors and the water. No expensive gym membership required. Just a kayak, some paddles, and plenty of fun.
- Barangaroo Reserve: Lay back on the lush grass at Barangaroo Reserve, pretending you’re solving the mysteries of life or daydreaming about your next meal. It’s a serene space to enjoy the outdoors while watching the world go by, all in the heart of the city.
What’s Happening on WESTERNLife?
Western Sydney University has a lineup of exciting (and free!) events this December. Here’s what’s on:
When: Sun, Dec 8, 12–3 PM
Where: Parramatta City Campus & Online via Zoom
Join to help shape future events, manage funding, and connect with fellow book lovers.
When: Mon, Dec 9, 6–8 PM
Where: Kingswood Campus
Celebrate the year with food, fun, and community spirit.
When: Wed, Dec 11, 12–1 PM
Where: Nirimba Campus
Free food trucks and a raffle—don’t miss out!
When: Thu, Dec 12, 4:30–6:30 PM
Where: Hawkesbury Campus, Multifaith Space
Celebrate the season with pizza and inclusive vibes.
When: Sat, Dec 14, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Where: Manly Beach, NSW
Join the Anime and Gaming Society for a day of fun with swimming, sandcastles, snacks, and good vibes.
When: Sat, Dec 14, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
Where: Events Cinema Parramatta
Enjoy an anime-style prequel to the LOTR trilogy with Book Club. $10 tickets for WSU students.
When: Sun, Dec 15, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
Where: Ferris Pavilion, Blaxland Riverside Park
Celebrate with pizza, biking, and books at Sydney Olympic Park. $20 bike hire for students with discounts available.
For details on these and other events, visit WESTERNLife – there’s a never-ending list of exciting activities and gatherings waiting for you! Whether you’re into beach days, movie outings, or cycling adventures, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet new people, have fun, and make the most of your time at Western Sydney University. Explore more and stay updated on all the upcoming events by checking out the full schedule on WESTERNLife! Don’t forget to register your attendance if you are attending any of these events!
Pro Tips for Staying Thrifty:
- BYO Everything: Water, snacks, sunscreen. Sydney sun is savage, and so are café prices.
- Travel Smart: Stick to off-peak trains and buses unless you like crying over your Opal card balance.
- Group Deals: Grab your mates, because splitting costs is the real MVP of student life.
- And what about when hunger strikes? We’ve all been there: it’s 3 PM, you’re hangry, and your wallet is giving broke student energy. Fear not. Hit Aldi for BBQ supplies, then head to Bicentennial Park with your squad and call it a cookout.
So, there you have it Sydney summer on a budget, served with a side of banter. Whether you’re hitting the beach, chasing waterfalls, or living it up at free events, this city has got you covered. It has so much to offer, and you don’t need a big budget to enjoy it. So, grab your mates, check out the beach, or join an event on campus- it’s all waiting for you.
