Overview
With the working year back in full swing and winter fast approaching, you're probably already nostalgic for summer nights sipping brewskis or soaking up the heat at your favourite beach. But with temperatures set to stay higher than average for autumn, you don't have to retire your summer wardrobe just yet.
Plus, there are still plenty of ways to take advantage of the warm weather and have a blast. We've compiled six ideas to keep the summer vibes going for a little while longer.
HEAD UNDERWATER
Warm weather means warm waters, so why not pack your towel and swimmers and plan your next beach adventure? Water temperatures are currently sitting around 24 degrees, so now is the perfect time to grab some mates or enjoy some you time by the water.
Whether you're a fish in disguise or more of a landlubber, there are plenty of beaches and swimming holes where you can swim some laps — and even bring your pooch — or sprawl out on the sand with a good book. Or if you're planning to explore the depths, there are some top-notch snorkelling spots from Pittwater to Manly where you can get up close to the underwater locals. Plus, you can enjoy the water in a new light when you check out these night swimming spots scattered around Sydney.
CAMP OUT ON THE SAND
This one is fuelled by 100-percent bonafide seasonal denial. Hit the road, find that temporary piece of paradisiac real estate and wake up in on own little patch of beach. Australia's end of summer is the best time to beach camp, with clear days, cool nights and warmer water temperatures all round.
Whether you're looking for a spot close to home or planning a road trip, it will be tough to choose from these tent-friendly beaches scattered across NSW. If you're wanting to make a longer road trip, make tracks to one of the best beach camping spots around the country. Doze off to the sound of crashing waves and wake up with a morning dip in the ocean. Plus, you can wow your mates with these campside food hacks and all it takes is a bit of planning and a few handy tools.
WATCH THE SUNSET (AND A MOVIE)
Outdoor cinemas are a staple of summer and there's still time to take a date or your mates to catch the latest flicks under the stars. Plus you can bring along a picnic of your favourite treats and drinks or enjoy what's on offer on-site.
While some have already packed up for the year, there's still time to head down to Wollongong for the final days of Sunset Cinema this Friday and Saturday. For something closer to home, you can check out Sunset Cinema in North Sydney until March 30, Centennial Park's Moonlight Cinema until March 31, and Blacktown's Skyline Drive In, running all-year round.
Ciccone & Sons, Kitti Gould
COOL DOWN WITH AN ICE CREAM
Summer days and ice cream go hand in hand, and escaping from the office to pick up a cone of classic chocolate or untraditional Champagne gelato is a great way to enjoy the final days of summery sunshine. Sydneysiders are spoilt for choice, too, so pick up a scoop (or two) from one of our top nine ice-cream and gelato joint around the city.
For those willing to travel to indulge their sweet tooth, take a trip to the Central Coast to try some goat's milk gelato from Mr Goaty. If you're looking for something closer, but more unusual, you'll find some unique treats in Newtown, where you can tuck into some vegan flavours from Gelato Blue or some melt-resistant ice cream from Turkish ice creamery Hakiki.
The Newport
EAT AND DRINK BY THE WATER
What's not to love about sipping a refreshing cocktail while you soak up stunning views of beaches, harbours or rivers? Whether you're planning your next date night or an outing with friends, there are a bunch of spots where you can spend your final summer nights. And there's somewhere for every occasion, from Mosman's waterfront beer garden and Italian jetty eats to Barangaroo's harbourside restaurant.
Bring your togs and relax with a cocktail at one of the many poolside bars scattered across the rooftops and waters of Sydney, or book a brunch date and tuck into some eats at one of these waterside cafes and restaurants. If you're near Bondi, hang out by the beach and check out one of the area's top-notch cafes for an afternoon (or post-morning swim) coffee date.
Cave Beach, Jervis Bay, by Dee Kramer
GO DAY TRIPPING
If you're missing the excitement that comes with travelling, or you've been meaning to hit the road all summer, there's still time to explore somewhere new for a day. So grab the car snacks, make a jamming Spotify playlist and pick one of these summer day trips.
Head north, and you can stop at the Central Coast for a weekend getaway and hop between more than 40 beaches, let out your inner wine connoisseur in the Hunter Valley, or explore the rainforest at Port Macquarie. For those looking south of Sydney, you can get lost in the gardens of Bowral or relax on the white sands of Jervis Bay. If you still need guidance, check out our handy road trip guide.