Things I Only Write at 2 A.M.

Sydney’s beaches are more than just places to catch some sun—they’re little escapes, each with its own vibe and personality. Each beach has left me with unforgettable memories. So here’s a glimpse of the sandy shores I’ve walked on, the waves I’ve dipped my toes in, and the sunsets I’ve watched.

🩵 Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is definitely one of the most well-known beaches in Sydney—and it shows. It was so crowded when I went, with people everywhere, soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves. The weather was scorching hot, but thankfully, the breeze was nice and cool, making it bearable.

I spent some time playing in the sand, just soaking in the beach vibes, then wandered off to find a café. Afterward, I treated myself to some delicious rainbow ice cream. It was a perfect little treat after all the sunshine and sand!

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🩵 Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach is definitely one of the more beautiful spots in Sydney. It’s much quieter than Bondi, making it perfect for a more peaceful beach day. The surroundings were stunning, with lovely flowers blooming everywhere and monuments scattered around, adding a unique touch to the beach’s charm.

One of the best things about Coogee is that you can actually walk from Bondi to Coogee along the coastal path. The walk is beautiful, with scenic views of the coastline and ocean along the way. It’s a must-do if you’re in the area!

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🩵 Manly Beach

Manly Beach was a bit crowded when I visited, but it still had that relaxed beach vibe. I found a nice spot on a bench to sit and enjoy some strawberries and cake—perfect for a chill moment by the sea. Of course, no beach experience is complete without seagulls, and these guys were definitely around. There was even one bold seagull that decided to bully the others from their food—taking it all for himself!

It was a fun, laid-back experience with plenty of beachside antics, and I’ll definitely be back for more!

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🩵 Shelly Beach

I headed to Shelly Beach with the intention of watching the sunset, but unfortunately, the view was blocked by buildings. Still, it didn’t ruin the vibe! I spent some time hunting for seashells, which was surprisingly relaxing, and there were plenty of surfers around. Watching them glide through the waves was a cool distraction. It wasn’t the sunset I had hoped for, but the experience was still calming and peaceful in its own way.

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🩵 Lady Bay Beach

Lady Bay Beach is a clothing-optional beach, and it offers a peaceful, more laid-back vibe compared to the more crowded spots in Sydney. The beach is secluded, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The soft sand, clear water, and surrounding greenery create a serene escape, and it's the perfect spot if you're looking for a quiet getaway.

It’s a beautiful and calming place to unwind, away from the usual beach crowds.

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🩵 Palm Beach

Palm Beach was everything I needed—golden sands, soft waves, and that peaceful vibe that makes you feel like you're in a different world. It was the perfect place to unwind, with plenty of space to walk along the shore and just take in the surroundings. The only thing? The hike to get there was a bit intense, but totally worth it once I got there.

The beach was a relaxing retreat, and it was exactly what I needed to recharge.

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🩵 Watsons Bay Beach

Watsons Bay Beach is the perfect spot to catch a sunset. The view was absolutely stunning, with the sky glowing golden as the sun slowly dipped below the horizon. It was one of those moments where you just sit and take it all in, feeling like time is standing still. The beach itself is peaceful and relaxed, making it the ideal place to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty.

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🩵 Little Bay Beach

Little Bay Beach is one of those hidden, quiet spots that feels like your own private paradise. The beach is small and peaceful, with clear water and gentle waves that make it perfect for a relaxing day. It’s not crowded, so you can really enjoy the serenity of being by the sea without all the noise. It’s a great spot to just unwind and appreciate the simple beauty of nature.

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🩵 Congwong Beach

Congwong Beach, tucked away near La Perouse, is a true hidden gem. It’s quiet and secluded, making it the perfect spot for some alone time or a peaceful day by the water. The clear water and serene surroundings make it feel like a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s also a popular spot for pre-wedding photoshoots, and it’s easy to see why—the views are absolutely stunning.

Oh, and don’t forget to grab some ice cream while you’re there. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy as you relax by the beach.

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That’s a wrap on my Sydney beach adventures! 🌊

Sydney’s café culture has a way of making even the simplest drink feel like a moment. From the first sip of a creamy thai tea to the refreshing chill of a fresh peach tea, each drink has a little story behind it. Here’s a list of drinks I’ve tried while exploring this beautiful city, each one tied to a memory and vibe.

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ᡣ𐭩 Bengong Black 📍91 Harbour St, Haymarket NSW 2000

Peach Fresh with Jasmine Tea Jelly ★★★☆☆ | $ 9.20

I was excited to try this peach fresh drink, and while the peach flavor was nice, it didn’t have that sweet kick I was hoping for. It was refreshing, but honestly, I wanted more of that bold peach sweetness. It’s a solid drink if you're craving something light, but not as enjoyable if you're looking for something more flavorful.

*** ᡣ𐭩 Chapayom 📍551 George St, Sydney NSW 2000

Thai Milk Tea ★★★★★ | $ 7.20

I absolutely love Chapayom’s Thai tea! It’s become my go-to whenever I’m craving something refreshing. I’ve ordered it so many times that it feels like a little ritual. The flavor is rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. I once tried adding pearls, but honestly, I prefer it without—just the original version is perfect. It's one of those drinks I can’t get enough of, and it’s always a treat when I get it!

*** ᡣ𐭩 Gong Cha 📍Citymark Building, Shop 7/683-689 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000

Earl Grey Milk Tea & 3Js ★★★★★ | $ 8.60

I always go for the Earl Grey Milk Tea with 3Js at Gong Cha. It’s my go-to order every time I visit. The Earl Grey flavor is just the right mix of bold and smooth, and the milk tea is rich without being overwhelming. The 3Js (the chewy jelly toppings) add the perfect texture, making each sip extra satisfying. It’s my comfort drink, no matter the time of day.

*** ᡣ𐭩 Molly Tea 📍Shop 5/78-86 Harbour St, Haymarket NSW 2000

Snowy Jasmine Milk Tea ★★★★★ | $ 8.90

I’m absolutely hooked on Molly Tea! The tea itself is so light but fragrant, and when paired with the whipped cream and pecan nuts on top—chef’s kiss. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The only downside? The line is crazy long! I had to wait about an hour to get my hands on it, but I guess the aesthetic and the taste make it worth it. Totally worth the wait every time.

*** ᡣ𐭩 CHICHA San Chen 📍339A Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000

Cassia Black Tea with Mousse ★★★☆☆ | $ 8.00

I tried the Cassia Black Tea with Mousse at Chicha San Chen, and it was decent. The wait was a bit long, but when I finally got my drink, I thought it was... just okay. The mousse was nice though—it really brought out the flavor of the tea, making it a bit richer. Overall, it wasn’t a “wow” drink that made me crave more.

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⋆｡‧˚ʚ🧋ɞ˚‧｡⋆ Catch you in the next round of drinks! 🍹☕

That’s it for now, but I’ve got plenty more drinks to try (and more stories to share)!

Here’s the list of places I’ve been ticking off in Sydney—some planned, some spontaneous, but all memorable in their own way. From the classic must-sees like the Opera House to the unexpected gems like a random hike at Palm Beach, each place has been a little adventure on its own.

So, here’s to the spots I’ve visited, the moments I’ve had, and the ones I can’t wait to experience next. Follow along as I explore the beauty of Sydney, one soft step at a time.

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1. Visit Sydney Opera House

The Opera House used to be one of those places I only saw in people’s Instagram stories—somewhere that felt so far away, but always showed up when someone visited Sydney. So when I finally arrived, it was the first place I went to. Kind of a must, right?

Funny thing is, I ended up going there multiple times during my first week. Just sat on the steps, watched tourists take photos, listened to ferries come and go. It really is as pretty as everyone says, especially in the afternoon light. But yeah… after a while, I got a little bored. Still, it was the first place that made me go, “Wow, I’m actually here.”

2. Take a ferry ride to Manly and sit outside

We were on our way to Shelly Beach, which meant taking the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. Sounds chill, right? Until we realized the top deck was already full, and we ended up sitting on the side—where the wind had zero chill.

My hair was flying everywhere, the sea kept splashing up the side, and the guy next to us even got wet—like, actually wet. Luckily, we were still kind of sheltered so it wasn’t too bad. The whole ride was around 20 minutes, and honestly? Kind of chaotic. But also… beautiful.

We went during golden hour, just before sunset, and the view? Insane. Light bouncing off the waves, the skyline slowly getting softer, and that feeling of being between places—but already content.

3. Explore the Historic The Rocks Area

We were trying to find this cute pink café called Feekah—it looked so aesthetic on Google. But when we arrived at the location, all we saw was a stone wall. Literally just that. We thought maybe it was upstairs or hidden somewhere, so we started climbing stairs, walking around, hoping for a secret entrance.

Spoiler: there was none. After circling around with no café in sight (and our hunger growing more dramatic by the minute), we gave up. Thankfully, we were close to The Rocks, so we ended up wandering there instead. Got some gelato, found a Thai place, and somehow turned a failed café hunt into a pretty satisfying little adventure.

4. Visit Hornby Lighthouse

I didn’t even know we were going to the lighthouse. The plan was just “walk around Diamond Bay,” and I thought, okay, chill vibes. But we kept walking—past cliffs, ocean views, crashing waves below—and suddenly, there it was.

Hornby Lighthouse. The red-and-white striped one I once wrote down in a note somewhere, not really knowing if I’d ever see it in person. I didn’t plan to be there that day, but the walk was beautiful, the sea loud and alive, and the moment just… clicked. Like the kind of magic that happens when you don’t try too hard.

5. Watch the Sunset at La Perouse

Finally made it to La Perouse after rescheduling a million times. We took a pretty long bus ride to get there, but it was so worth it. The sun was already starting to set when we arrived, glowing huge and low in the sky—the kind of sunset you just have to stare at quietly for a minute.

We walked toward Bare Island, crossed the little bridge, and found a spot near the cliffs to just sit and take it all in. The sunset was stunning, but the real surprise was after—when the moon started rising, big and beautiful and way too aesthetic for real life. As it got dark, we had to rush back so we wouldn’t miss the bus, but honestly? I would've walked home if I had to. That view? Worth everything.

6. Visit Shelly Beach and Collect Seashells

Shelly Beach was the main goal that day—the reason we took the ferry to Manly in the first place. It was supposed to be a little sunset moment, but we ended up at the wrong angle, and the view was totally blocked by buildings. A bit of a miss… but not really.

I spent most of the time walking around looking for seashells (didn’t take any, just admired them), and watched a bunch of surfers doing their thing. The whole beach had this chill, local vibe. No perfect golden hour shot, but still a soft kind of happy. Sometimes, that’s enough.

7. Explore Manly Beach and Do Some Birdwatching

Manly Beach was pretty packed when we got there—lots of people, lots of noise, and… lots of seagulls. We found a bench and started snacking on strawberries and little pastries, and within seconds, they showed up. Like they’d been waiting.

One bold seagull perched right near us, watching every bite like it was auditioning for a role. Then came the real show—this one seagull just bullied the rest, wouldn’t let anyone else eat. He was loud, greedy, and weirdly effective. We didn’t even feed them, but it still felt like we were part of some bird soap opera.

8. See the Sky Turn Gold From Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay feels like a little escape from the city—even though it’s not that far. The moment we got off, everything felt slower. Calm. There were sailboats in the distance, people laying on the grass, and that soft scent of sunscreen and sea air everywhere.

We just wandered for a bit, sat by the shore, and let time pass without counting it. It wasn’t a day packed with plans—just good weather, soft wind, and the kind of view that makes you want to close your eyes for a second and breathe a little deeper.

9. Visit SEA Life Aquarium

We went to SEA LIFE kind of on a whim. It was already close to closing time, but we figured—why not? So we went in, walked through the tunnels, and suddenly were surrounded by fish of all shapes and vibes.

There were stingrays, tiny penguins waddling around, and yep—Nemo made an appearance too. I kept saying “look at that one!” every two seconds. It was short and spontaneous, but still so fun. Like a little underwater escape squeezed into the end of the day.

10. Relax at Barangaroo Reserve

We decided to walk all the way from Sydney Bridge to Barangaroo—just to explore, no rush. The view was nice, the path long, and the wind? Ridiculously aggressive. My hair was all over the place, but it was still fun… until it wasn’t.

Right when we got to Barangaroo, my sandal broke. Like fully gave up on life. I was already tired, the wind was still attacking, and now I had to limp my way out of there. The vibes? Gone. We ended up taking a taxi home—and yeah, I was in a mood. But at least now I’ve got a story… and a reason to buy new sandals.

11. Enjoy the Vibes at Luna Park

We didn’t go there for the rides—just wanted to soak in the vibe. Free entry, lots of lights, loud music, and the kind of chaotic energy you only find in places made for joy. We stumbled upon this one attraction I thought was the spinning motorcycle thing in a barrel, but it turned out to be people getting whipped around inside at full speed. We watched for a bit, laughed, then moved on. No idea what we were watching, honestly.

There was a big ferris wheel, a carousel, and—my favorite—this group of school kids on some kind of trip. They were everywhere, playing those “throw a ball, win a giant plushie” games. And so many of them were dragging around massive avocado plushies like trophies. I didn’t win anything, but walking past all those giant green fruits honestly made my day.

12. Check Out the Art at White Gallery Rabbit

We went to White Rabbit Gallery just out of curiosity, and honestly? I didn’t expect to be that amazed. One second I was looking at a photo series showing the stages of life—from baby to old age—and the next, I was standing in a fake chocolate shop where all the “chocolates” were actually… weapons. Iconic.

My favorite was this room filled with trash bins that played music when you stepped on them. Literal garbage turned into art you could dance on. The whole place was full of installations that were weird, funny, and sometimes just confusing—but in the best way. Oh, and the best part? It’s free. Art should always be this fun.

13. Find a Slice of Europe at The Bower

I didn’t plan to go to The Bower. Turns out, it was right on the path toward Shelly Beach—and the moment I saw it, I was like, “wait… I’ve seen this on TikTok.” Cute European café vibes, lemony yellow chairs, and that clean white facade that makes you want to sit and order sparkling water just to feel abroad.

It felt like stumbling into a soft daydream. I didn’t stop for long, but it made me smile—the kind of small, unexpected magic that makes a walk feel like a little adventure. Sometimes, it’s nice to accidentally end up somewhere you once only scrolled past.

14. Visit Palm Beach and See the Breathtaking View From the Top

I honestly thought Palm Beach was going to be a regular stroll. Turns out, it was basically a hike. The stairs were wayhigher than I expected, and I was dying halfway up, gasping for air and trying not to pass out. Every time I stopped to catch my breath, I was convinced I’d never make it.

But then… I made it. And wow. From the top, I could see two separate seas meeting. The view was insane—totally worth it, but here’s the thing: I’d love to go back… but I’m not doing that hike again. 😂 Maybe next time I’ll bring a helicopter, or just take the stairs... but slow. So slow.

15. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden and Do Some Flowerwatching

Who doesn’t love flowers, right? The Royal Botanic Garden was like stepping into a dreamland full of color. Roses in every shade, flowers I couldn’t name but loved anyway, and the sweet scent of nature filling the air. I spent hours wandering, stopping to admire and even sneak in a few deep breaths near the petals. It was peaceful, and since it wasn’t crowded, I could just be there.

But then, as expected, the weather decided to spice things up. Halfway through, the sky decided to rain on my flower parade, and next thing I knew, I was running around trying to find shelter. I was laughing though, because even the rain couldn’t ruin the vibes of being surrounded by flowers. Definitely need to come back—hopefully when it’s a little drier!

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And that’s a wrap on my Sydney bucket list—so far! 🌟

It’s Sunday! And since Thursday, I’ve had one thing on my mind—I want seafood.

Not the fancy kind from polished restaurants. I was craving the busy kind—messy, noisy, a little fishy, with buttery sauce on my fingers and the joy of eating straight from a cardboard box.

And yes—this was a Sydney Fish Market kind of craving.

When I arrived, the place was buzzing—crowded, loud, a bit wet, lines everywhere… and somehow, comforting.

My eyes immediately caught the sushi donuts—round, pretty, topped with fresh salmon and thin slices of avocado. But I didn’t end up getting those. I was pulled toward the mixed sushi instead. Toppings in bright colors, edible flowers, creamy cheese mayo layered like they were made to perform at a food carnival.

Then came the highlight: grilled octopus skewers smothered in melted cheese. Honestly? A little scary-looking—but also kinda adorable. I took a bite, and wow. It was chewy but not tough, the sauce was creamy with a slight hint of sweetness.

And the grilled scallops with mayo and tobiko? I wasn’t a fan of the cheese on top, but the scallops and rice underneath? Heaven in a shell.

Oh—and the king crab leg. Huge, messy, and everything I hoped it would be. Worth it for the soft, juicy crab meat soaked in warm garlic butter. That first bite? That kind of taste that makes you close your eyes for a second and think, yep, I needed this.

I sat outside, eating on the edge, watching people pass by and listening to seagulls scream at one another. There was no fancy plating. Just seagull sounds and conversations in a dozen different languages.

Sometimes Sundays aren’t about aesthetic healing. Sometimes it’s just sitting under the sun, hands smelling like seafood, and your heart saying, "today was a good one."

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📍Sydney Fish Market Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009

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It was raining softly that afternoon. Not the kind of rain that soaks you in regret—but the kind that makes you want to hold a warm cup, walk a little slower, and find something flaky, golden, and sweet.

I didn’t know I’d end up at Kürtősh, but I guess my craving knew better. The smell caught me first—warm sugar and pastry dough dancing in the air just as I passed Darling Square. My feet followed without asking.

Inside, it was cozy and calm. I ordered a Chocolate & Almond Croissant—without overthinking, just following that quiet kind of hunger. It came out golden, with that perfect outer crunch. The inside? Buttery, soft, with chocolate that melted like it knew it was meant for a rainy day. The almonds added this earthy, comforting warmth I didn’t know I was looking for—but needed.

Kürtősh wasn’t just a dessert stop. That day, it became shelter. Not from the rain, but from everything else I didn’t want to carry.

And honestly? I’d come back again—on any rainy day, just to be reminded that soft things exist. And they’re warm. And they’re enough.

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📍Kürtősh - Darling Square Shop 1, 16 Nicolle Walk Darling Square, Haymarket NSW 2000

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