The harbour is Sydney's defining characteristic. It is both the city playground and a major port. Its sandstone headlands, dramatic cliffs, and stunning bays and beaches make it one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the world.
Officially called Port Jackson, the harbour stretches some 20km (12mi) inland to join the mouth of the Parramatta River. The most scenic area is on the ocean side of the bridge. The Sydney Harbour National Park protects the scattered pockets of bushland around the harbour and offers good walking tracks but the best way to experience the harbour is to to actually cruise it. From the isolated beaches of Middle Harbour, to the bright lights and excitement of Darling Harbour, there is plenty to see and do.
