Sydney is a city that loves its barbecues. With its stunning harbor, diverse wildlife, and vibrant food scene, it’s no surprise that BBQ experiences here run the gamut from scenic cruises to hands-on cooking classes. What makes Sydney stand out is the way it combines outdoor adventure with culinary flair. Imagine relaxing on a sunset cruise while nibbling on grilled delights, or learning how to perfect Aussie prawns under the guidance of a professional chef. Among these options, the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch is a standout for its family-friendly vibe and wildlife encounters, making it perfect for nature lovers.
If you’re after a more relaxed, scenic experience, the Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise offers a luxurious way to enjoy the city’s iconic sights combined with a tasty BBQ. For those wanting to get hands-on, the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class lets you learn professional tricks at the Sydney Fish Market. Each of these tours showcases a different side of Sydney’s BBQ culture, catering to families, foodies, or adventure seekers alike.
Below, we’ll break down the seven best BBQ experiences in Sydney, giving you the details to pick the perfect match for your trip.
- 1. Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch
- 2. Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Lunch, Beer and Wine
- 3. Sydney: Full Day Learn to Surf Adventure – Incl BBQ Lunch
- 4. Sydney: Seafood BBQ Cooking Class
- 5. Sydney Harbour BBQ Sunset Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
- 6. Sydney Harbour Family BBQ Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
- 7. Sydney Fish Market: Seafood BBQ Cooking Class
- How to Choose Your Perfect BBQ Experience in Sydney
- Final Thoughts
1. Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch
At number one on our list is the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch tour, which combines wildlife experiences with a delicious Aussie BBQ. This 7-hour trip is perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxed day with plenty of fun. What sets this apart is the seamless transportation from Sydney to the Australian Reptile Park, with entry included, so you don’t have to worry about parking or logistics. You’ll get up close with Australian wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos, and even toss a boomerang — a true Aussie tradition.
The tour includes a private guided tour of the park, a kosher BBQ lunch, and snacks and drinks throughout the day. Reviewers consistently praise Sean, the guide, for his knowledge and friendly approach, with some calling this the best tour they’ve experienced in Australia. The small group size ensures an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, and the wildlife encounters are genuinely special—no crowded zoo here. The highlight is the combination of interaction with iconic animals and the fun of boomerang throwing, making this tour ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a mix of wildlife, culture, and great food in a small-group setting, this tour offers an unforgettable day.
2. Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Lunch, Beer and Wine
Number two on our list is the Sydney Harbour Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Lunch, Beer and Wine. For around four hours, you’ll cruise aboard a 40-foot motor yacht, enjoying the breathtaking sights of Sydney Harbour—including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge—while sipping regional wines and local beers. This experience is perfect if you want a relaxed, scenic way to indulge your love for BBQ and Sydney’s iconic scenery.
What makes this cruise unique is the small group setting—no more than 14 people—allowing for a more personal experience. The live commentary shares the history of the harbor, enriching the journey. You’ll also have time to swim, kayak, or fish, making it a versatile outing. The gourmet three-course BBQ lunch is the centerpiece, with grilled meats and fresh salads. Reviewers note the quality of the food and the friendly crew, making it an ideal choice for foodies and those who enjoy a leisurely day on the water.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking for a scenic, relaxed meal with a side of adventure and cultural insight in a small-group environment.
3. Sydney: Full Day Learn to Surf Adventure – Incl BBQ Lunch
Number three is the Full Day Learn to Surf Adventure, which offers a different kind of BBQ experience—surfing combined with a hearty lunch. This 7-hour trip is perfect for active travelers eager to master the waves or improve their skills with expert coaching. The tour takes place at a private, crowd-free beach with consistent, manageable waves, making it suitable for beginners or those looking to hone their technique.
The focus here is on learning or improving your surfing skills, but the day is also about relaxing on the beach and enjoying the Aussie beach lifestyle. Transport from Bondi, Central Station, or Ramsgate is included, simplifying logistics. The highlight is the personalized coaching, which helps build confidence in the water. The tour includes a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach, letting you refuel after your surf session.
Guests love the relaxed vibe and the chance to try surfing with minimal crowds. The small groups and professional coaching make this a good fit for active travelers of all ages, though children under 12 are not recommended. The combination of outdoor activity and a classic Aussie BBQ makes for a memorable day.
Bottom Line: If you’re into outdoor activities and want to learn a new skill while enjoying a BBQ on the beach, this tour delivers.
4. Sydney: Seafood BBQ Cooking Class
Number four is the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class, which turns you into a grilling pro at the Sydney Fish Market. For just three hours, you’ll learn how to prepare and cook Australian seafood like prawns, squid, and fish, with tips from a professional chef. This hands-on experience will leave you with new skills and a full belly of freshly grilled seafood.
What makes this class special is the state-of-the-art kitchen at the Fish Market, where you’ll get close to the source of Sydney’s seafood bounty. The instructor shares insider tricks for getting perfect crispy skin and tender prawns. It’s a great choice for foodies who want to go beyond just eating—this is about understanding and mastering the art of seafood BBQ.
Guests rave about the quality of instruction and the delicious meal at the end. The price offers excellent value for a small-group, expert-led cooking experience in a top Sydney location. This class is perfect for those who enjoy hands-on learning and want to impress friends back home with their BBQ skills.
Bottom Line: For a practical, flavorful experience that elevates your BBQ skills, this seafood class at the Fish Market hits the mark.
5. Sydney Harbour BBQ Sunset Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
Number five offers the Sunset BBQ Cruise, a 3-hour tour perfect for those who want to combine stunning scenery with fun water activities. Cruising under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House, you’ll enjoy a lively soundtrack and a traditional Aussie sausage sizzle. Once anchored in a beautiful Sydney bay, you can swim, paddleboard, or just relax watching the sunset.
What makes this tour stand out is the water toys—from paddleboards to lilo floats—that add a playful element to the evening. The views are spectacular, especially at sunset when the city skyline glows. The BBQ is simple but satisfying, with the focus on the ambiance, activities, and scenery. Guests appreciate the lively atmosphere and the chance to enjoy Sydney’s iconic harbor at dusk.
Ideal for families or groups wanting a relaxed, fun-filled evening, this tour offers an affordable price point and a memorable experience. If you love water-based activities and stunning sunsets, this is your ticket.
Bottom Line: Perfect for an active, scenic evening with good food and fun water toys in a relaxed setting.
6. Sydney Harbour Family BBQ Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
Number six is the Family BBQ Cruise, designed specifically for families wanting a mix of sightseeing, water fun, and a hearty meal. Similar to the sunset cruise, this 3-hour adventure includes sailing under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House, with the added bonus of family-friendly water toys and a casual BBQ lunch.
This tour’s standout feature is the inclusive water activities—paddleboards, lilo floats, and more—that entertain kids and parents alike. The lively, informal atmosphere makes it easy for families to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers note this tour’s ability to keep kids engaged and happy while adults soak in the views.
It’s an affordable, flexible choice for families looking for a safe, fun way to see Sydney’s harbor while enjoying a laid-back BBQ. The small group size ensures everyone has room to move and enjoy the water.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with children and want a fun, active day on the water, this cruise offers great value and a memorable experience.
7. Sydney Fish Market: Seafood BBQ Cooking Class
Finally, the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class at Sydney Fish Market gives you a hands-on lesson in Australian seafood grilling. This 3-hour class teaches you how to clean squid, cook fish fillets crispy, and prepare prawns on the BBQ. It’s perfect for those who want to learn skills they can replicate at home or impress friends with.
What makes this experience different is its focus on practical skills in a professional setting, with expert guidance. The market location means you’re learning directly where Sydney’s seafood is at its freshest. Reviewers highlight the quality of instruction and the fun of cooking in a top-notch kitchen. The class ends with a shared meal of your creations, making it both educational and delicious.
Ideal for seafood lovers and cooking enthusiasts, this class offers excellent value for those who want a memorable, skill-building experience. It’s perfect if you prefer learning through doing rather than passive sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For seafood aficionados eager to master Aussie BBQ techniques, this class is a worthwhile investment.
How to Choose Your Perfect BBQ Experience in Sydney
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a wildlife encounter combined with BBQ, the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch is hard to beat. For a luxurious scenic cruise, the Harbour BBQ Sunset Cruise offers a sophisticated outing. Active travelers should consider the Learn to Surf Adventure, while foodies who want hands-on skills will love the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class.
Budget travelers may find the Harbour Water Toys Cruises a fun, affordable option, especially for families or groups. Timing also matters—if you’re visiting in summer, a sunset cruise is particularly spectacular, while the wildlife tour is great year-round.
When booking, check for inclusions like transportation, meals, and activity levels. Many tours, like the Seafood BBQ Class, fill quickly, so reserve early to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Sydney truly offers an impressive variety of BBQ experiences that reflect its lively outdoor culture and love of fresh seafood. Whether you prefer wildlife encounters, scenic cruises, or learning how to barbecue like a local, there’s an option for you. For families, the wildlife tour or family cruise are excellent choices—while food lovers seeking skill-building should consider the cooking classes.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what interests you most—scenery, animals, or culinary skills—and pick a tour that complements your style. Early booking is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the wildlife tour or cooking classes, ensuring you don’t miss out on these memorable Sydney adventures.