Parsley Bay to Watson's Bay walk

Two years ago Brian and I came to Sydney on vacation and fell in love with the city. The proprietor at our hotel sent us to Watson's Bay on our very first day in town and we were amazed to see a beautiful little corner of the harbor with a view back at the city and a short walk up to a spectacular cliff area all just a half hour ferry ride from downtown. Today we set out to return to Watson's but we approached it a different way. 

This time we put our Sydney Walks guide to good use and chose a starting point in the swanky suburb of Vaucluse. After walking through a residential area we popped down an unassuming path and came out to find a suspension bridge crossing the little cove of Parsley Bay. We explored the path along the sandstone sides, enviously watched some swimmers do their laps just inside the shark nets (yeah, they have those here), and continued on our way towards Watson's Bay. 

Once at Watson's we enjoyed a lunch of fish and chips from historic Doyles (established in 1885). We tried to choose a spot away from the mob of seagulls but they followed us and even managed to steal a half eaten calamari out of my hand. After that Brian and I put the girls on sea gull scaring duty and they gleefully complied. 

Seagull chasers - and also check out the cool hideout in the fig tree.

After lunch and some hiding from passing rain showers we walked the short distance up to admire the ocean-side cliffs.

Watson's Bay sits inside the peninsula that forms the South Head at the opening of Sydney Harbor. After walking down from the cliffs we came to another lovely beach area. Tess and I opted to stay there to play in the water and sand and ogle the city skyline. 

Emily and Brian walked to the end of the peninsula to check out the light house and look out over the mouth of the harbor.

We finished the day with two last ferry rides and a quick bus home. We feel incredibly lucky to live in such an spectacularly beautiful place. We can't wait to show it off to Nina and Grampi when the come to visit in the beginning of March!