Experience the magic of watching films under the stars with Australia’s best outdoor and drive-in cinemas.
There’s something magical about watching a movie under the night sky. Whether you’re lounging on a picnic blanket with snacks or reclining in a deck chair with a glass of wine, outdoor cinemas provide the perfect mix of entertainment and nature. Across Australia, stunning open-air venues set the stage for unforgettable movie nights.
Ready for a film with a view? Here are Australia’s best outdoor cinema experiences to catch a flick under the stars.
1. Moonlight Cinema, multiple locations
A favourite across Australia, Moonlight Cinema offers a truly immersive outdoor experience. With locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, this popular open-air cinema blends blockbuster movies with stunning backdrops like Centennial Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Bring your own picnic or grab a gourmet snack from the food trucks, then settle in for a night of classic films, family favourites or new releases. Don’t forget to rent a double bean bed for ultimate movie-watching comfort.
When: From November 2024.
2. Sunset Cinema, multiple locations
For a laid-back yet luxurious evening under the stars, Sunset Cinema offers a premium outdoor cinema experience in select locations including Canberra, North Sydney and Wollongong.
The show begins at last light.
With state-of-the-art screens set against scenic views, you can enjoy cult classics, family-friendly flicks and recent blockbusters.
Take advantage of the onsite food vendors before settling in for the film.
The best part? There will be food vendors onsite, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy your movie in style. Popcorn in one hand, drink in the other – what more could you need?
North Sydney Oval will transform into an outdoor cinema.
When: Varies by location, but Bondi Beach will be the first to open on 14 November.
3. Deckchair Cinema, Darwin, NT
Watching a movie at Darwin’s Deckchair Cinema is an experience like no other. Located on the waterfront, this community-run cinema is open during the dry season and offers an eclectic mix of films, from indie flicks to cult classics.
Festoon lighting frames the big screen for the ultimate celebratory mood. (Image: Tourism NT)
Grab a deckchair, watch the sunset over the ocean and enjoy a film with the sounds of the tropics around you. You can bring your own food or enjoy dinner from local vendors, making it the perfect tropical movie night.
Recline in a deckchair for a cinema experience like no other. (Image: Tourism NT)
When: During the dry season (May to October).
4. Coburg Drive-In, Melbourne, Vic
For a classic drive-in experience in Melbourne, head to Coburg Drive-In, located just 12 kilometres from the CBD. The heritage-listed cinema brings the latest releases to life while you relax in your car, tune in through the radio and enjoy a night of nostalgia.
Coburg Drive-In is hosted in a heritage-listed venue.
The retro diner serves up burgers and hot dogs, so you can complete your movie night with some old-school snacks. It’s a family-friendly outing that brings back the magic of drive-in movies.
Buckle up for a night filled with old-fashioned films.
When: All year round.
5. Skyline Drive-In, Blacktown, NSW
Known as Skyline Drive-In, this Sydney institution in Blacktown is the only remaining drive-in in the city. With two giant screens, the drive-in features both new releases and themed retro-movie nights.
Watch a movie from the comfort of your car.
The onsite Happy Days-style diner enhances the nostalgic feel with its ‘50s-style decor and menu filled with burgers, shakes and fries.
The retro-chic dining adds to the nostalgic feel of the drive-in.
It’s a popular spot for families, groups of friends and couples looking for a unique movie night. Watch a film from the comfort of your car or bring chairs to set up outside and enjoy the Sydney night sky.
Set up chairs alongside your car for an unforgettable cinema night.
When: All year round.
6. Yatala Drive-In, Yatala, Qld
Located halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Yatala Drive-In has been keeping the retro cinema experience alive since 1974. With two big screens and a menu of classic drive-in fare, this is the perfect place to settle in for a nostalgic night under the stars.
Yatala Drive-In is a beloved Queensland institution and Brisbane and the Gold Coast’s last original drive-in.
Yatala Drive-In is a one real drive-in.
When: All year round.
7. Westpac OpenAir Cinema, Sydney, NSW
Westpac OpenAir Cinema is often dubbed the world’s most beautiful cinema, and it’s easy to see why. Located at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, this spectacular cinema offers unbeatable views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and city skyline as the backdrop to your movie. The screen literally rises from the water, providing an unforgettable setting for films ranging from new releases to classic favourites.
Westpac OpenAir Cinema isn’t your typical outdoor cinema experience.
To elevate the experience, Westpac OpenAir offers gourmet dining options with food from some of Sydney’s best, including Bar Copains in Surry Hills, Redfern’s Kepos Street Kitchen and LP’s in Chippendale, along with a curated selection of wines and cocktails.
The world’s most beautiful cinema offers unrivalled views of the Sydney Opera House.
For a night of glamour and cinematic magic, this is a must-visit for film lovers.
The screen rises from the water’s edge.
When: 2025 dates to be announced.
8. Sun Pictures, Broome, WA
Claiming the title of the world’s oldest operating outdoor cinema, Sun Pictures in Broome is a must-visit for any film lover. This heritage-listed cinema has been screening films since 1916 and watching a movie here feels like stepping back in time.
The historic charm of the venue, coupled with Broome’s balmy tropical nights, makes for an unforgettable outdoor movie experience. The lineup ranges from the latest blockbusters to classic films, offering something for everyone in this iconic setting.
Sun Pictures has been screening films since 1916. (Image: Brett Barnett Photography)
When: All year round.
9. Mov’In Bed, Melbourne and Sydney
For the ultimate in cosy outdoor cinema experiences, Mov’In Bed offers something truly unique: a bed under the stars.
Outdoor cinema experiences don’t get comfier than this.
With locations in both Melbourne and Sydney, this quirky and fun cinema lets you snuggle up under the stars in a plush bed with pillows and blankets.
All the necessities for the ultimate outdoor cinema experience.
Whether you’re watching a new release or a beloved classic, the experience is made even better with gourmet food and drinks delivered straight to your bed.
Order food direct to your bed.
Perfect for couples, friends, or families, Mov’In Bed takes outdoor cinema to a whole new level of comfort and relaxation, making it one of the most fun and memorable ways to enjoy a movie night.
This fun cinema lets you snuggle up in a plush bed.
When: November 2024 – March 2025.
10. Dromana 3 Drive-In, Dromana, Vic
Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne in the Mornington Peninsula, Dromana 3 Drive-In has been showing films since the 1960s. With three screens playing the latest releases, this retro drive-in is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The original 1950s diner, Shel’s Diner, adds to the nostalgia, offering all your favourite cinema treats and meals. Dromana 3 also hosts special themed nights and retro screenings, making it more than just a movie – it’s an experience steeped in history and charm.
When: All year round.
11. Movies at Camelot, Perth, WA
Located in the vibrant Perth suburb of Mosman Park, Movies at Camelot is as charming as it is magical. This intimate, Mediterranean-style venue features a mix of cult favourites, indie films and blockbuster hits, all shown beneath the starry sky.
Grab a pizza or movie snacks from the bar, sip on some wine and enjoy the Mediterranean vibes in the heart of Perth. With fairy lights twinkling and a chilled-out atmosphere, it’s one of the city’s best experiences.
When: 2024 was its first season, running from Feb-April. 2025 dates are yet to be announced.
12. Manly OpenAir Cinema, Manly, NSW
Manly OpenAir Cinema brings the ultimate beachside cinema experience to one of Sydney’s most iconic locations. Nestled right by the water at Manly, this open-air cinema offers breathtaking views of the ocean as the backdrop to your movie night. With a laid-back, summer vibe, guests can enjoy recent blockbusters, family favourites and classic films while lounging on bean bags or picnic blankets.
Pair your film with gourmet snacks, 4Pines beer and Tommy’s Margaritas from the onsite vendors, and you have the perfect evening by the sea. The gentle sound of the waves and the fresh coastal air add to the magic of this quintessential Sydney experience.
Enjoy watching classic films with the ocean as a backdrop.
When: 2024-25 summer dates yet to be announced.
13. Lido on the Roof, Melbourne, Vic
For a chic and intimate cinema experience under the stars, head to Lido on the Roof in the heart of Melbourne’s Hawthorn. Perched atop Lido Cinemas, this stylish rooftop venue creates a unique atmosphere where you can enjoy a summer evening under the stars, all with Melbourne’s skyline as the backdrop.
Perfect for movie buffs who enjoy a more boutique experience, Lido on the Roof also offers a great selection of snacks and drinks, making it easy to settle in for a relaxing night. Whether you’re there for a rom-com, action flick or nostalgic hit, this hidden gem in the city guarantees a memorable outdoor movie experience.
When: From 13 November.
14. Laneway Cinema at The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
For a unique outdoor movie experience in the heart of Sydney’s historic district, the Laneway Cinema at The Rocks offers an intimate setting surrounded by cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
Step into a pop-up cinema in a historic setting at The Rocks.
Located in one of Sydney’s most iconic areas, this pop-up cinema brings a charming and cosy atmosphere to Atherden Street, where you can enjoy cult classics, rom-coms and family favourites under the stars.
Laneway Cinema hosts screenings in an intimate courtyard setting.
With free entry, it’s the perfect way to end an evening after exploring The Rocks’ vibrant markets, restaurants and bars. Grab a blanket, settle into a deck chair and enjoy a movie in this hidden gem of a location, surrounded by the rich history and ambience of one of Sydney’s oldest neighbourhoods.
Grab a chair and enjoy a film with snacks in hand.
When: November 2024 – March 2025.
There’s something truly special about watching a film under the stars. So, grab your tickets, pack your snacks and get ready for an unforgettable night at the movies, Aussie style!
The post Under the stars: Australia’s 14 best outdoor cinemas and drive-ins appeared first on Australian Traveller.
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