Sunshine in Sydney for long weekend

Sydneysiders are in for a hot and sunny long weekend.

Weather forecasters are predicting highs of 27 degrees on Saturday, 30 degrees on Sunday, and 27 again on Monday, with ocean temperatures rising to a pleasant 20 degrees.

The Bureau of Meteorology says winds from the centre of the continent will boost temperatures well above average.

Temperatures in Sydney's west are expected to climb into the mid-30s on Sunday - the day of the NRL grand final - and again on Monday.

Lifesavers are expecting hordes of beachgoers to take advantage of the long weekend at the end of school holidays.

"Our clubs are preparing for a busy weekend," NSW Surf Life Saving spokesman Liam Howitt told AAP.

"It is the first truly hot week for a couple of months so be aware of that," Mr Howitt said.

He stressed the importance of sun protection and drinking plenty of water.

With the bushfire season officially starting on Thursday, Rural Fire Service is reminding NSW residents to be vigilant during this weekend's temperature rise and to start making preparations for the months ahead.

"This summer we can expect above average temperatures and below average rainfall combining for a very difficult and challenging fire season for the state," NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons told the AAP.

On Tuesday the RFS welcomed the arrival of Southern Bell, a 44,000-litre plane water bomber, as it prepares for the bushfire season.

"It is the little things you can do today that can make all the difference," he said.