Sydney · With kids

Thirty minutes across the harbour on an ordinary Opal fare, then a surf beach, a sheltered cove and flat cycling. All ages.

Ferry to a hillside zoo with giraffes standing against the harbour and a cable car up from the wharf; a full day. All ages.

Sharks, rays and dugongs in the Darling Harbour complex; ninety minutes, and easily combined with the wildlife park next door. Ages 3+.

Netted baths at Balmoral and Redleaf and the calm snorkelling cove at Shelly Beach in Manly avoid the surf entirely. All ages.

Buses and ferries take prams, though some older stations have no lift. Swim between the red and yellow flags and reapply sunscreen — the UV is fierce.