Spring is in the air and there’s nothing better than getting out and about and stopping to smell the flowers. Specifically, it’s jacaranda season and we are spoilt for choice across the North Shore with some amazing places to go check out these blooming buds. Grab your camera, round up the kids and check out the jacaranda trees taking over the North Shore!
Wondering where to head to check out the jacarandas across the North Shore? We have you sorted. Use the quicklinks to plan the perfect day trip that is sure to put a ‘spring’ in your step.
- McDougall Street, Kirribilli
- Lavender Bay, North Sydney
- Station Street, Naremburn
- Muston Park, Chatswood
- Royal Botanic Garden
- Hunters Hill
When can you enjoy Jacaranda Trees in Sydney?
Jacaranda season is surprisingly brief, which only makes the experience more rare and memorable. Generally speaking, the purple blossoms start to show themselves in early-to-mid October. The second half of October sees the Jacaranda-lined streets and parks look like something out of a dream, with the trees in full bloom. By early November, the roads and footpaths are carpeted in fallen purple blossoms as the Jacarandas prepare to don their lighter, green summer outfits.
Where do Jacaranda trees originate from?
Jacaranda trees are native to South America, primarily found in countries like Brazil and Argentina. The genus Jacaranda belongs to the family Bignoniaceae and includes various species of trees and shrubs. These trees are known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blue or purple flowers and their fern-like foliage. They have been introduced and cultivated in many other parts of the world, including regions with a Mediterranean-like climate, where they have become popular ornamental trees for their stunning appearance in bloom.
Best streets to see Jacaranda Trees around Sydney’s North Shore
McDougall Street, Kirribilli
When it comes to finding the Jacarandas in Sydney, McDougall Street should be top of your list. The tourists flock here in droves – and for good reason! From late October until the end of November, the street is in full bloom, playing host to a brilliant array of purple jacarandas. After a trip down the street, taking in the delights, you can head to the adjoining Milson Park to check out more of the nearby botany.
As the purple petals fall, North Sydney Council is making it safer for everyone to enjoy in 2025. McDougall St, Kirribilli, will be closed to traffic on weekends from 7am to 7pm, starting Saturday, 25 October, for around six weekends. Vehicle access is available for residents, with traffic controllers on-site to help.
Jacaranda Trees along McDougall Street, Kirribilli
Lavender Bay, McMahons Point & Milsons Point
Head to North Sydney to see a fantastic array of Jacarandas, particularly in Milsons Point, Lavender Bay and McMahons Point.
- Lavender Bay: This suburb turns a shade of purple, with stunning views of the bridge as a backdrop. Pack up your picnic and head for Wendy Whiteley’s Garden for the perfect afternoon, surrounded by beauty.
- McMahons Point: The streets and parks around McMahons Point, especially Blues Point Road, are known for their jacaranda displays with a stunning backdrop of the Sydney Harbour.
- Milson Park, Kirribilli: Located near the Kirribilli Club, this park is adorned with jacaranda trees and offers a lovely place for a stroll.
Station Street, Naremburn
If you’re looking for another spot that’s perhaps a little less busy (and a little less well-known to the tourists), then take a wander down Station Street in Naremburn. You’ll be able to enjoy the jacarandas in bloom without the crowds, which makes for some great photo opportunities!
Hunters Hill
Visit Hunters Hill anytime of the year and you’ll find a naturally leafy suburb that’s worth wandering through. Head there in jacaranda season and expect it to be even prettier! Head down the streets and lane ways and you’ll find the trees generously dotted along the way. Perfect spot to stop and take a few photos!
Muston Park, Chatswood
Go and check out the stunning jacarandas, while also letting the kids loose for some playtime. Muston Park is the best of both worlds! The Wisteria tunnel is one of the main drawcards of this beautiful park. If you enter from Eden Street, you come through the walkway to get to the path. Even when not in bloom, this walkway is something special!
Once you’ve made your way through, kids will love climbing the rocket ship, checking out the swings and having a blast at the nearby playground. Read our review here.
Wisteria Walk at Muston Park
Other spots to see Jacaranda Trees in Sydney
Royal Botanic Gardens
If you’re hoping to check out the oldest jacaranda tree in the country, then it’s worth popping the Royal Botanic Gardens on your list of places to see! Not only can you enjoy stunning views and plenty of purple, but there’s so much more to see and do that you can make a day of it. Of course, if you’re hoping to discover a little of the tree’s history, you’ll find all you need to know here.
Eastern Suburbs of Sydney
Suburbs like Paddington, Woollahra, and Double Bay have numerous streets lined with jacaranda trees, creating a picturesque scene.
The University of Sydney
The University of Sydney campus features many jacaranda trees, and the Quadrangle, in particular, is a popular spot for visitors to admire the blooms.
Camperdown Memorial Rest Park
Located in the inner-west suburb of Camperdown, this park has several jacaranda trees that bloom beautifully in spring.
Grafton in New South Wales
Grafton Jacaranda Festival
Although a few hours’ drive from Sydney, the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, which usually takes place in late October and early November, is famous for its jacaranda-lined streets and vibrant celebrations.
In 2025, it’s on from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November.
