Manly snorkel tour ecotreasures

Winter’s Call: Why Sydney’s “Cold” Smells Like Adventure (and Whales!)

Winter in Sydney isn’t just a season; it’s an invitation. And frankly, to me, the cold just smells like adventure. I always make sure to highlight this for our friends from the Northern Hemisphere, many of whom are chasing a ‘cool-cation’ or escaping their summer heat. And honestly, those brave Aussies who embrace the chill to explore our incredible underwater world? They’re my kind of people! My family, on the other hand, definitely prefers the warmth, so you’ll usually find me enjoying the crisp air up in the Blue Mountains by myself, soaking in that rugged beauty. But when you work outdoors like I do, you quickly learn to prefer the cold over the scorching, extreme heat of summer – it just makes getting things done so much more comfortable.

Manly snorkel tour ecotreasures

Maximizing the “Seasons of the Sea”

Now, running a seasonal business, winter certainly brings its challenges. We’ve got to be smart, right? Maximizing these slower times isn’t just about weathering the storm; it’s about innovating and really showcasing what makes Sydney a phenomenal, year-round destination. It’s about remembering that Sydney’s magic lies not just in its vibrant land-based seasons, with their bustling festivals, but also in the dynamic ‘seasons of the sea.’

For instance, while the average water temperature in July might hover around 19.2°C (66.6°F), sometimes dipping to a minimum of 17.3°C (64.7°F), the water clarity during these cooler months is often absolutely spectacular. This makes it a prime time for diving and snorkeling, offering incredible visibility to witness events like the majestic whale migration, which peaks off Sydney in June and July as they journey north. It’s a different kind of beauty than our tropical summer, sometimes calm and serene, sometimes wild and exhilarating, just like the ocean itself.


Team Wellness, Wildlife & Winter Wonders

This July, we’ve curated adventures designed to embrace Sydney’s unique winter charm:

Rejuvenate Your Team: Wellness Walks & PJs

Team wellness for businesses is more critical than ever, with employee health directly impacting productivity, engagement, and retention. Research indicates that enhanced employee well-being could generate trillions in global economic value. Holistic approaches that integrate mental, physical, spiritual, and social functioning are key to a thriving workforce. Our guided Team Wellness walks offer the perfect blend of exercise, fresh air, and stunning coastal scenery, fostering teamwork and reducing stress. Such nature-based activities, like those offered on the Ecotreasures Team Wellness page, provide a powerful solution for “environmental bathing” or forest bathing, which is scientifically proven to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, boost creativity, and enhance overall well-being. Don’t forget to ask about our unique “PJs” (Programs Just for Teams) options to add an extra layer of fun and engagement to your wellness day!

Port Jackson Shark Breeding: Sydney’s Spiraling Secrets

Get ready for an extraordinary winter adventure! Sydney’s waters come alive from late August as the fascinating Port Jackson sharks begin their annual breeding migration. These unique sharks lay distinct, spiral-shaped egg cases, which the females meticulously wedge into rocky crevices for protection. Witnessing this incredible natural cycle is a seasonal highlight! A Manly snorkel tour offers the perfect way to observe these docile “pugs of the sea” up close during this special time. Don’t worry about the winter chill – full 5mm wetsuits are provided to keep you comfortable as you explore Sydney’s vibrant underwater world and its spiraling secrets!

Private BM Day Trips & Whale Surveys

For a more serene escape, consider our private BM day trips, where you can relax and unwind while exploring hidden bays and tranquil waters. Alternatively, for a thrilling wildlife encounter, join our guided hikes in Sydney to survey majestic whales as they migrate along the coastline. Our incredible marine life is active all year, from our iconic Port Jackson sharks breeding, to various fish species that are prime for viewing in these cooler, clear waters.

By embracing these distinct ‘seasons of the sea,’ we can offer unique eco-tours and experiences that highlight Sydney’s year-round natural wonders, turning what some see as a ‘slow time’ into a period of unique discovery and deep connection with nature.


Ready for your July adventure? Explore our unique winter tours and book your experience today!

Damien – Experience designer