Every summer, Sydney plays host to some of the best outdoor cinema experiences in the world. With programs running from November, Sydney’s outdoor cinemas are the best way to enjoy the latest new releases and iconic classics, all summer long.
From the iconic Westpac OpenAir on Sydney Harbour to the the beachside cinema at Bondi, and dog-friendly movie experiences at Centennial Park and in The Rocks, outdoor cinemas are a fun way to make the most of Sydney’s warm summer evenings.
This is your guide to the best outdoor cinema experiences in Sydney this summer.
Map of Sydney Outdoor Cinema Locations
Laneway Cinema in The Rocks
There’s always something fun happening in The Rocks and midweek summer evenings are no exception. Every Wednesday night from November until February, The Rocks plays host to Laneway Cinema with its popcorn cart and deck chairs. Tickets to Laneway Cinema are free, but it’s worth registering in advance to secure your spot. Registration opens weekly on Monday here.
Sunset Cinema Bondi Beach
Sunset Cinema at Bondi Beach offers the chance to watch some of your favourite films on a large outdoor screen right alongside the beach. Why not make a day of it? Enjoy some sun and surf in the afternoon before heading over to the cinema come sunset. Pick up a bucket of popcorn and a drink from the licensed bar and settle in for a sunset show.
Moonlight Cinema Sydney
Moonlight Cinema Sydney happens at Centennial Park with the longest season of all the open air movie experiences in Sydney. You can catch a movie at Moonlight Cinema Sydney from November until April, with program releases monthly throughout the season. There’s plenty of food and drink options available to purchase onsite, or you’re welcome to BYO (including alcohol). And your dog can join you too – arrive early to purchase a Lyka Doggie Bag!
Mov’in Bed Outdoor Cinema Barangaroo
Get comfy at the Mov’in Bed Outdoor Cinema at Barangaroo. Here you can enjoy an outdoor cinema experience watching your choice of films on the giant 15 metre 4K screen on the waterfront at Barangaroo. There’s tiered ticket options from the budget friendly Sunset Sand Class (BYO blanket and find a spot on the sand) to VIP Bed Class (get comfy in a king size bed complete with pillows and doona). There’s also an option to book a spot to bring along your dog. There’s no BYO at Mov’in Bed Outdoor Cinema Barangaroo, but there is plenty of food and drink options to choose from onsite.
Sunset Cinema North Sydney
The other side of the harbour gets a look in with the Sunset Cinema at North Sydney. With a season running from December until March, here you can make the most of Sydney’s warm summer evenings with a movie night at at North Sydney Oval. Because this cinema is taking place at a sports oval, there are a few important regulations to keep in mind – like no pets, and only certain types of chairs (nothing staking into the grounds). There’s no BYO alcohol allowed at Sunset Cinema North Sydney, but you can bring your own food, or you can buy food and drinks at the onsite food vendors and bar.
Westpac OpenAir
The world’s most beautiful cinema…
Westpac OpenAir
This is the iconic Sydney outdoor cinema experience. Westpac OpenAir is located on the harbour’s edge at Mrs Macquaries Point, and the cinema screen is set against a backdrop of the city skyline, Sydney Opera House, and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
There are multiple ticket packages available, some offering bundles dining experiences and premium seating. There’s no BYO food or drinks at Westpac OpenAir but here, the outdoor cinema experience is as much about coming early for the popup onsite harbourside dining as it is about enjoying the film.
FAQs
Where can I find an outdoor cinema in Sydney?
Some of the best outdoor cinema’s in Sydney include Westpac OpenAir at Mrs Macquaries Point, Moonlight Cinema Sydney at Centennial Park, Sunset Cinema at Bondi Beach and North Sydney, Laneway Cinema in The Rocks, and Mov’in Bed at Barangaroo.
When is outdoor cinema season in Sydney?
Outdoor cinemas are a popular summer experience in Sydney. Each year between November and April, various outdoor cinema programs take place in locations across Sydney from Barangaroo to The Rocks and Mrs Macquaries Point.
Are there any pet-friendly outdoor cinemas in Sydney?
During the 2025-26 summer season, pet friendly outdoor cinemas in Sydney include Moonlight Cinema Sydney at Centennial Park, Laneway Cinema at The Rocks, Mov’in Bed Outdoor Cinema at Barangaroo. Pet policies vary at Sydney’s outdoor cinemas. Make sure you check the cinema’s pet policy when booking.
Do any Sydney outdoor cinemas allow BYO?
During the 2025-26 summer season, outdoor cinemas that allow BYO include Moonlight Cinema Sydney where BYO food and drinks including alcohol is allowed, while Sunset Cinema at Bondi and North Sydney both allow BYO food, as does Laneway Cinema at The Rocks.
Can I purchase food and drinks at Sydney’s outdoor cinemas?
Sydney’s outdoor cinemas have food and drink options available to purchase onsite.
