Nothing says springtime in Sydney like a street full of jacaranda trees in bloom. Depending on weather conditions, jacaranda season usually peaks in October and November, transforming Sydney streets and parks into a magical, lavender-coloured wonderland.
These are the best places to wander among the jacaranda trees in Sydney in spring 2024.
Kirribilli
North Sydney
McDougall Street in Kirribilli is probably Sydney's most famous jacaranda grove. It turns a magical shade of vibrant violet each spring and is a hot spot for jacaranda devotees trying to get the perfect spring photo—just be mindful of residents and traffic.
Lavender Bay
North Sydney
Lavender Bay (the name says it all) turns a rich shade of purple thanks to its epic Jacaranda trees. The colours have tourists coming from miles, and make for an epic photo opp against the pretty Sydney Harbour background.
First Fleet Park
The Rocks
What's better than dazzling harbour and Opera House views? Soaking up those stunning views while shading yourself under a jacaranda tree, duh. First Fleet Park becomes shrouded in vibrant purple jacaranda blooms each spring, making it a must for tourists and locals alike.
Hunters Hill
North Shore
Hunters Hill is a beautiful leafy suburb at the best of times, but when the jacaranda trees reach peak bloom, it’s even prettier. Our hot tip is to start at the Hunters Hill Club and wander your way down.
Oxford Street
Paddington
The Eastern Suburbs is a regular go-to for any jacaranda fanatic; this is where you come to spend an afternoon meandering down Oxford Street, with a coffee in one hand and a camera in the other.
You’ll want to head off the main drag for a little bit of extra exploring because there are jacaranda trees scattered throughout the entire suburb, like the Barracks Reserve, and that's where the real magic happens.
Prince Alfred Square
Parramatta
A small but picturesque spot in the west, Prince Alfred Square becomes a jacaranda haven in the springtime.
Plan a detour on your way to see the jacarandas in Parramatta Park, or pack a picnic to enjoy the delicate shower of purple blooms.
Royal Botanic Garden
CBD
It’s about time you got around to that picnic before the ridiculous summer heat sets in. Stroll through Sydney's iconic harbourside gardens, then settle in under the best jacaranda blooms you can find.
The best part about the Royal Botanic Garden is that due to its size, you won’t have any problems snagging a stunning picnic spot under a shower of purple blooms.
Glebe
Inner West
Spend your Saturday soaking up the sun at Glebe Market and all of the boughs of pale purple on offer.
The Inner West boasts long, winding streets of jacaranda trees and, with some of the best food in Sydney, you can consider your afternoon sorted.
Macquarie Street
CBD
Who said the CBD was a concrete jungle? When the jacaranda trees are in full bloom, Macquarie Street turns into a purple oasis. We recommend that you take your lunch break al fresco, and remember to look up.
Parramatta Park
Parramatta
Sometimes, you just need a big wide leafy space to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban traffic. Parramatta Park is a great place for a post-lunch stroll or reading a book in the sun.
Come springtime, Parramatta Park is also a great spot to admire the jacaranda trees' pretty purple blooms.
Woolwich
Lower North Shore
Woolwich is another Sydney gem if you want to see jacaranda trees in full bloom this spring in Sydney.
Start at The Old School House before heading for an hour-and-a-half walk around Woolwich, complete with harbour views. We suggest you walk through Kelly’s Bush and finish up at the old Woolwich Dock.
Out Of Town: Grafton
Northern Rivers NSW
While it's not technically in Sydney—Grafton is the jacaranda capital of NSW. If you're up for a road trip up the East Coast, Grafton hosts an annual Jacaranda festival when the whole town turns purple in celebration of the famous tree.
And if you're after more flowers, why not try these flower-filled walks in and around Sydney.
Image credit: Destination NSW