Best/safest neigbhorhoods in Sydney?

Question

Hi,

Me, along with my family are planning to spend 5 nights in Sydney. Wondering if anybody could suggest a decent neighborhood in Sydney. I came across quite a few, Woolloomooloo, Potts Point, Chippendale, Wentworth, Chinatown, Ultimo, Manly, Kings Cross, etc.,
I was warned that some of these neighborhoods (such as Kings Cross, etc.,) are not safe, and some are prohibitively expensive...
Could anybody kindly suggest some neighborhoods that are safe, and are close to enough attractions/or well connected by public transport to most of enough attractions at Sydney?

Or atleast is there a website where I can get such information? websites (such as www.city-data.com) that have details for other places in Australia as well?

Thanks a lot in advance!
-BJ

Answer 1

We've stayed several times in Kings Cross. It's central, the underground connects to all other parts of the city. It depends on how old your family is. If you have very young children, there isn't much there for them. But if they are 10-12 or older, you won't have a problem. There are some decent hotels in the neighborhood and you can easily walk to the harbour, for day trips on the ferries, or to the park, or downtown.
We didn't wander around Kings Cross in the small hours of the morning, when there was lots of night life, but even then, as long as you stay on the main streets you shouldn't have a problem. The area is well policed.
We discovered Byron Bay, which is a fabulous place for the whole family. Miles and miles of wonderful beach, a funky little town, lots of great places to eat, and a fun place for families.

Answer 2

Try Neutral Bay in North Sydney, you can walk to the ferry dock. King's Cross is defiantly not family orientated!

Answer 3

manly seemed pretty safe when i was there but there were constant police sirens in china town