The thing with living is a big city like Sydney is this: whenever something worth doing comes along, it’s inundated by everyone in the entire city and it becomes almost impossible to enjoy it due to the crowds and hype. Take Sculptures By The Sea, for example. Every year, brilliant sculptors from all over the country create installations along the walk between Bondi Beach and Tamarama Beach.

Photo: Paul Carson / Embikei Images

It’s a great way to spend the day, walking along the cliffs in the sunshine and checking out the art…at least it would be, if everyone else in the entire city didn’t have the same idea! Here, we’ve profiled a few ideas for beating the crowds in Sydney, so that you can make the most of this beautiful city without having to crane your neck to see over the guy in front of you! From a beautiful and intimate Sydney Harbour cruise to a picnic at a secluded beach, here are our top picks:

Hermitage Bay, Vaucluse
This picturesque little harbour beach is accessed by a steep set of stairs and you need to battle your way through some bush land to get there, but it is worth it. Rarely is there more than a handful of people enjoying the tranquility, and what’s more, it boasts crystal clear waters and a view straight out to the bridge and Opera House. Perfection.

Sydney Fish Market—On a Weekday
The Sydney Fish Market is a great attraction, and it is the best place to get a fresh plate on seafood in the entire city. Unfortunately, every man and his dog knows this, so on a weekend the place packs out like a can of sardines (no pun intended) and getting a table (or getting served) is nigh on impossible. If you go during the week, however, you’ll still get to see the daily hauls coming in, and you’ll also be able to snag a great table and quick service.

Sydney Harbour Cruise
While Sydney Harbour cruises often pack out, booking yourself in for a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise ensures you’ll get a seat and a great view. Depending on which night of the week the cruise is on (go midweek for less crowds) the boat might only be half-full, which means you get to enjoy the beauty of the harbour from the water itself. Even on a packed boat, there’s something satisfying about watching the hustle and bustle of the CBD drift by, secluded and warm in your floating restaurant. Many tourists and locals alike choose this activity as a way of leaving the city behind and checking out the beautiful harbour beaches and suburbs you take in on the cruise.

Sydney is a city full of beautiful sights and exciting things to do. The problem is finding a time to do these things and see these sights that doesn’t include crowds of people. A holiday should be relaxing, so follow the tips above to enjoy Sydney in the most laid-back way possible—without the fuss.