Capella Lodge, Lord Howe IslandCredit: Rhiannon Taylor
Dining area with scenic coastal views of Mount Gower. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
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Indulge in sublime fine dining in Sydney and take your taste buds on the road to discover dazzling destination dining experiences across the state. Pair these culinary delights with equally atmospheric stays and you have the ingredients for the ultimate gourmet holiday.
Get a bird’s-eye view of Bondi at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar in Sydney
Drink in the views of Australia’s most photographed stretch of sand along with an expertly crafted cocktail at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, perched above historic ocean baths at the southern end of Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Taste for yourself how restauranteur Maurice Terzini’s heritage inspires a modern Italian menu elevated by the freshest Australian produce available, from sustainable seafood to hints of native ingredients. Ease deeper into holiday mode at QT Bondi, a boutique hotel that plays up to its seaside location with bright pops of colour and fun, beachy furnishings.
Celebrate a special occasion at Bennelong in Sydney
Get a buzz dining inside an Australian icon at Bennelong in the Sydney Opera House. Admire the intricate concrete bones of the building’s vaulted ‘sails’ as you peruse the modern Australian menu by renowned Australian chef Peter Gilmore. Save room for desserts that feature a fabulous, fine-dining spin on Aussie favourites such as the humble lamington. Enjoy the glittering harbour views for longer by staying at one of the neighbouring Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour’s chic one- and two-bedroom garden-view and harbour-view luxury apartment-style suites.
Embrace fermented flavours at Sixpenny in Sydney
Step through the doors of an unassuming terrace house in Stanmore, in Sydney’s inner west, and into one of NSW’s most coveted degustation experiences at Sixpenny. Indulge in fresh and innovative flavours driven by fermentation that dance on your palate long after you have finished dessert. Strap in for a culinary adventure and opt for wine pairings hand-picked from small artisanal producers. Then retire to the comforts of the urban-chic Old Clare Hotel, a 10-minute drive away in Chippendale, which also wows with its multitude of facilities, including a sparkling rooftop pool.
Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
A delicious seafood platter served at the Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Bondi.
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Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
A delicious seafood platter served at the Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Bondi.
Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying an evening out with friends at Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Opera House.
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Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying an evening out with friends at Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Opera House.
Recharge and refuel at Ates in the Blue Mountains
Relax after an invigorating day of bushwalking through the Blue Mountains at Ates in Blackheath, where the 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven (Ates means ‘fire’ in Ottoman Turkish) invites you to unwind and feast on contemporary share plates and fun wines with all your senses. Tuck into charcoal-grilled fish and wood-roasted dishes from the a la carte menu, or prep your appetite for the chef’s banquet for carnivores or vegetarians. Drift off to sleep as you recall each morsel of your memorable meal in a stylish suite at nearby Kyah boutique hotel, where fresh mountain air collides with Palm Springs-inspired design.
Lean into the theatrics at Muse Restaurant in the Hunter Valley
Prepare to be just as dazzled by the presentation as you are by the flavours of the refined contemporary dishes served up at Muse Restaurant in the Hunter Valley, a two-hour drive north from Sydney. Observe how the relaxed elegance of the moody restaurant at Hungerford Hill winery allows head chef Troy Rhoades-Brown’s creative yet unfussy seasonal creations to shine as you sit back and enjoy each act. Retreat to the nearby Spicers Guesthouse to soak up its modern farmhouse ambience, heart-warming hospitality and the convenience of the region’s top cellar doors within easy reach.
Make a grand entrance at Printhie Dining in Orange
Seize the opportunity to travel to one of the newest restaurants in the Country NSW wine region of Orange by helicopter. It’s just one of several memorable experiences you can add to a decadent meal at Printhie Dining, where considered Printhie Wines pairings elevate each beautifully plated dish you savour in the estate’s sophisticated restaurant. Feel right at home at the welcoming Byng Street Boutique Hotel in Orange, just a 10-minute drive from the estate, which combines the history of an original homestead with contemporary furnishings.
Dine like the stars at Raes on Wategos in Byron Bay
Take your seat at the intimate, light-filled Dining Room at Raes on Wategos, overlooking the most exclusive beach in Byron Bay on the North Coast. Dive into the Mediterranean-inspired three-course menu, or treat yourself to executive chef Jason Saxby’s thoughtfully curated tasting menu (vegetarian and vegan menu available) and settle in for the afternoon. Afterwards, it’s only steps to your suite or penthouse in the Spanish mission-style boutique hotel. Revel in the exclusivity of an early beach swim at Wategos Beach before the crowds arrive the following morning.
Printhie Wines Cellar Door, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Located in the cool climate region of Orange, NSW, Printhie Wines' state of the art Cellar Door includes Printhie Dining offering a set degustation lunch overlooking vineyards and the undulating hills of the Orange wine region. You can enjoy oysters shucked to order from Printhie Wines' innovative oyster tank or go beyond the Cellar Door with a choice of luxury experiences.
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Printhie Wines Cellar Door, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Located in the cool climate region of Orange, NSW, Printhie Wines' state of the art Cellar Door includes Printhie Dining offering a set degustation lunch overlooking vineyards and the undulating hills of the Orange wine region. You can enjoy oysters shucked to order from Printhie Wines' innovative oyster tank or go beyond the Cellar Door with a choice of luxury experiences.
Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay Credit: Madeleine Johnson / Sean Fennessy
Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay
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Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay Credit: Madeleine Johnson / Sean Fennessy
Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay
Relish amazing local produce at Bistro Livi in Murwillumbah
Discover the delicious bounty harvested from the fertile fields and waterways of the Northern Rivers region at Bistro Livi, a popular neighbourhood restaurant in Murwillumbah, a 45-minute drive from Byron Bay. Bond over shared plates featuring freshly caught seafood — depending on the day’s catch you might find Ballina pipis with XO sauce or Pottsville spanner crab on the Spanish-influenced menu — as you admire the Art Deco architecture of the Murwillumbah’s M|Arts Precinct. Fortify yourself with one of the restaurant’s rich desserts before you begin the 30-minute drive to your luxe private glasshouse at Avion Retreat, in the foothills of the Tweed Valley.
Slurp oysters to your heart’s delight at Bangalay Dining in Shoalhaven Heads
Taste the NSW South Coast on a plate at luxuriously relaxed Bangalay Dining, nestled in the sand dunes at Shoalhaven Heads, a two-hour drive south of Sydney. Connect with the coast on a whole new level as you savour plump local oysters before sinking your teeth into a rack of local lamb. Or allow executive chef Simon Evans and his team to delight you with a sumptuous dinnertime tasting menu before you retire for the night with a smile on your face at the attached Bangalay Luxury Villas, which offers 16 stylish self-contained one- and two-bedroom villas (and a four-bedroom holiday house).
Lap up island-style dining at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island
Be astonished by the diversity of the culinary bounty of Lord Howe Island, a two-hour flight from Sydney, on a stay at Capella Lodge, spectacularly situated at the secluded southern end of the tiny island. Top off days exploring Lord Howe’s mesmerising landscapes with a daily-changing three-course celebration of island produce, from fresh kingfish sashimi to grass-fed beef, complemented by homegrown delights from the lodge’s own kitchen garden. Savour the exclusivity of the setting along with the cuisine, as the lodge’s restaurant is open only to guests of its nine luxurious suites.
Bangalay Dining, Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Anna Wiewiora
The breezy Bangalay Dining restaurant at Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads.
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Bangalay Dining, Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Anna Wiewiora
The breezy Bangalay Dining restaurant at Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads.
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island Credit: Capella Lodge
Lidgbird Pavilion with scenic ocean views of Mount Gower. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
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Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island Credit: Capella Lodge
Lidgbird Pavilion with scenic ocean views of Mount Gower. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
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The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
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New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
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Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
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Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.