The best things to do in Darling Harbour after dark

During the day, Bungalow 8 boasts chilled out beachy vibes and delicious modern Australian favourites harbourside at King St Wharf. At night, the place comes alive with a packed dance floor, local DJs on the decks and decadent cocktails. Get on the guestlist to skip the queues. Friday nights offer free entry all night while Saturday entry is free before 9pm.

If you’re a little bit boujee, you’ll love the surrounds of the Loft upstairs from Bungalow 8. Head up and you’ll find an opulent cocktail bar serving high teas and delicious drinks alongside panoramic harbour views. The dance floor packs out from Friday to Sunday and spaces are limited, so it’s always better to book a table in advance.

You’ll find Cargo Bar in an enviable waterfront location on King St Wharf - if you get wet, you’ve gone too far. After two decades of serving up Sydneysiders cocktails, dancing and good times, Cargo is Darling Harbour's iconic party venue with DJs playing every night of the week and epic parties on weekends. But this is so much more than a night club, boasting a wine list that’s not to be scoffed at, huge screens for watching the footy and delicious share-style menu featuring modern Australian and some American classics.

The Sydney branch of this Ibizan icon boasts decadent cocktails and delicious Meditaranean cuisine. Their rooftop terrace at Cockle Bay Wharf has 180 degree views over Darling Harbour and hosts one of Sydney’s best Sunday sessions, complete with live DJs, beautiful people and sunsets.

If you’re looking for a massive night out, go home - Home Bar that is. This is Darling Harbour’s biggest, loosest multi-level nightclub and live gig venue, complete with a terrace overlooking the harbour. If you’re wondering what’s on tonight, chances are there’s something epic happening at Home Bar.

The Watershed Hotel is an oldschool Sydney pub with a difference. It’s got a 24-hour, seven days a week license and it’s so close to the water you could probably dive into the harbour from the dancefloor. Come during the day for a session in the sun with sea and city views, or pop by later for club nights with live DJs.

Over the water under the eastern end of the Pyrmont Bridge is Helm Bar - a multi-level pub, club and restaurant. Come to Helm to enjoy fresh oysters and a glass of bubbles as the sun sets or catch the big game on their huge flatscreens.

Pontoon Bar has “a millionaire's view that anyone can afford” from their expansive waterfront terrace. They also have a brilliant list of craft beer, live sport on the big screen and one of Sydney’s rowdiest dancefloors on a Friday and Saturday night.

Sorry sourdough, but roti is officially the best bread. This doughy Malaysian treat is served perfectly until late at Mamaks Village in Darling Harbour, alongside delicious satays, curries and noodle dishes. Do yourself a favour and grab some roti and kapitan chicken. You may also want to try the paper thin Roti Tisu dusted in milo to finish your night.

If you’re in need of something hearty after a big night don’t go past a burger at the Watershed. The place is open until 3am and serves a truly miraculous beef and bacon burger that will heal all your woes.

Chicken karaage, or Japanese fried chicken, is the perfect way to end an evening and Nakano Darling do a brilliant plate of it for just $7.50. This vibey little Japanese themed bar also does boozy, delicious highballs, beers, sakes and fruit wines - so if you want to keep the night going you’re in the right place!