Sydney isn’t just famous for its stunning harbor and iconic landmarks; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy authentic Australian BBQ experiences. Whether you’re after a fun family outing, a culinary adventure, or a scenic water-based feast, Sydney offers options that will satisfy your appetite and your sense of adventure. We particularly love the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch tour for its unique combination of wildlife, culture, and delicious food, all wrapped into a full day of fun. For a culinary spin, the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class provides hands-on lessons perfect for seafood lovers. And if you’re after a memorable water-side meal, the Sydney Harbour BBQ Sunset Cruise and the Family BBQ Cruise deliver stunning views and lively atmospheres on Sydney Harbour.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find a mix of outdoor wildlife experiences, interactive cooking classes, and water-based BBQ cruises. Each offers something different: from meeting koalas and kangaroos at the Australian Reptile Park to grilling Australian prawns as the sun sets over the harbor. Want to see the city from the water while enjoying a traditional Aussie sausage sizzle? The Sunset Cruise is perfect. Looking for an authentic lesson in seafood grilling? The Sydney Seafood School has you covered. Read on for detailed descriptions of each, so you can pick the perfect BBQ experience for your trip.
1. Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch
At number one, this tour hits the sweet spot for families and travelers craving both wildlife encounters and a hearty meal. For around $237.68, you’ll spend about 7 hours immersed in Australia’s natural and culinary culture. The highlight is a visit to the Australian Reptile Park, where you’ll meet koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals. The highlight? A guided tour that puts you eye-to-eye with wildlife, plus the chance to throw a boomerang—a skill that seems to elude many but is a must-try here. The day culminates in an all-you-can-eat BBQ lunch, including shrimp on the barbie and Australian wine, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
Guests consistently praise the friendly guide, Sean, and the diverse activities packed into one day. One reviewer calls it “one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had,” noting how the tour exceeded expectations with its personal touches and variety. This experience is ideal if you want a full Australian day—from wildlife to food to culture—without sacrificing quality or comfort.
Bottom line: If you want to combine an interactive wildlife encounter with authentic Australian BBQ in a relaxed setting, this tour offers unbeatable value and fun.
2. Sydney: Seafood BBQ Cooking Class
For those who prefer getting their hands dirty in the kitchen, the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class offers a practical and tasty experience. Priced at $119 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this class takes place at the Sydney Fish Market, Australia’s largest seafood hub. Here, you’ll learn how to prepare and grill fresh Australian seafood like prawns, guided by a professional chef. The class emphasizes techniques for grilling seafood perfectly, along with tips on selecting the best produce.
What makes this class stand out is its focus on culinary skills rather than just eating. You’ll get to cook several seafood dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labor afterward. It’s especially suited for visitors who love foodie experiences or want to bring home some new BBQ skills. Reviews highlight the quality of instruction and fresh ingredients, making it a great value for food lovers.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to master the art of seafood BBQ and enjoy a delicious meal afterward, this hands-on class is a memorable way to spend an afternoon.
$119 per person
3. Sydney Harbour BBQ Sunset Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
Number three on our list is a spectacular water-based experience. For $66.79, this 3-hour cruise combines iconic Sydney sights with a laid-back BBQ. Setting sail on the Cheeky Monkey, you’ll cruise under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and past the Sydney Opera House, enjoying stunning views as the city transitions from day to night.
What makes this cruise special is the opportunity to relax while floating on lily pads, paddleboards, and water toys. The boat anchors in a beautiful bay where you can enjoy an Aussie sausage sizzle and drinks, all while soaking in a breathtaking sunset. It’s an excellent choice for couples or groups looking for both scenic beauty and fun water activities.
Despite being new, reviews note the romantic ambiance and family-friendly vibe. During sunset, the view of the skyline is at its best, making it a perfect photo opportunity. It’s an affordable, relaxing way to enjoy Sydney’s famous harbor.
Bottom line: For a combination of stunning views, water play, and casual BBQ, this cruise offers high-quality fun with a relaxed atmosphere.
$66.79 per person
4. Sydney Harbour Family BBQ Cruise with Swim and Water Toys
If you’re traveling with family or a group that loves active fun, the Sydney Harbour Family BBQ Cruise provides a lively 3-hour adventure. Priced at $66.79 per person, it mirrors the sunset cruise but is tailored for families, with plenty of water toys and space to explore.
You’ll cruise beneath the Harbor Bridge and past the Opera House, with the chance to play on paddleboards, lily pads, and giant water toys. The highlight? Enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch on the water, watching the city’s skyline as you float and splash around. Guests rave about the fun atmosphere and the opportunity for kids and adults alike to engage in water-based activities.
This tour is best suited for families or groups that want active relaxation and beautiful harbor views. It’s a great deal for a full afternoon of fun, especially during warm weather.
Bottom line: If your idea of a BBQ includes water toys and family-friendly fun, this cruise delivers a memorable day on Sydney Harbour.
$66.79 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Sydney BBQ Experience
Choosing between these options depends largely on your interests, budget, and schedule. For a complete wildlife adventure combined with a traditional BBQ, the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch is hard to beat. If culinary curiosity calls, then the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class offers a hands-on way to learn and eat. For those seeking scenic views and water-based fun, the Harbor BBQ sunset cruise and family cruise are perfect, with the latter suited for families and active water lovers.
Consider your budget, whether you prefer active water activities or culinary skills, and your time availability. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular wildlife tours and cooking classes during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Sydney offers a diverse range of BBQ experiences, from exciting wildlife encounters and cooking lessons to stunning harbor cruises. If you’re traveling with family, the Baby Animals, Boomerangs and BBQ Lunch provides a full day of fun and education. Foodies might prefer the Seafood BBQ Cooking Class to learn new skills. And for those wanting a relaxing, scenic water-based meal, the Harbor Sunset Cruise or the Family Water Toys Cruise are fantastic options.
No matter your choice, these experiences show that Sydney’s knack for combining great food with memorable settings makes it a top destination for BBQ lovers. Be sure to book early, especially during peak travel times, and enjoy your authentic Australian BBQ adventure.