Lagoon Beach, Lord Howe IslandCredit: tom-archer.com
Man stand up paddleboarding off Lagoon Beach with views across to Mount Lidgbird.
Start the new year with unforgettable adventures across New South Wales. From pristine islands and rugged national parks to world-class wine regions and cultural experiences, NSW offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re chasing natural wonders, indulging in gourmet delights, or uncovering rich heritage, these 10 bucket list experiences will inspire your 2026 travel plans.
1. Take a Guided Tour Through Mungo National Park
Step back in time at Mungo National Park, part of the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area in Outback NSW. Join a guided tour with Tri State Safaris or Outback Geo Adventures to explore ancient landscapes and learn about the cultural history of Lake Mungo. Marvel at the striking Walls of China sand dunes and learn about the significance of this area to local Aboriginal people.
2. Go Snorkelling on Lord Howe Island
Dive into paradise at Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem just a short flight from Sydney. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colourful fish and graceful sea turtles with Lorde Howe Environmental Tours, or spot one of the rare birds that call the island home. With crystal-clear waters and a limit of only 400 visitors at a time, this island offers an intimate, untouched experience for nature lovers, or those looking for the ultimate in relaxation.
3. Soar Above Mudgee’s Wine Country in a Hot Air Balloon
Float above rolling vineyards and patchwork farmland as the sun rises over Mudgee. A hot air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft offers a breathtaking perspective of this renowned wine region, known for its boutique wineries and country charm. After your flight, toast the experience with a glass of local sparkling and indulge in a long lunch among the vines, or check out one of the region’s top restaurants including Zin House, The Barn at Blue Wren Farm, Pipeclay Pumphouse and more.
4. Go Stargazing in Warrumbungle National Park
Escape city lights and gaze into the cosmos at Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first Dark Sky Park (an honour bestowed on only 13 places in the world). With crystal-clear skies and minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. Join an astronomy tour or simply lay back and marvel at the Milky Way stretching overhead. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, it’s a celestial experience like no other.
5. Pluck Oysters Fresh from the Water with Merimbula Oyster Tours
Taste the ocean’s finest on the Sapphire Coast with Merimbula Oyster Tours. Cruise the calm waters of Merimbula Lake and learn the secrets of oyster farming from local expert James Wheeler. Then, wade into the water and shuck your own oysters straight from the lease before enjoying a glass of sparkling to top off the experience. While you’re in town, sample more local seafood and produce at a range of restaurants, like Dulcie’s Cottage, housed in a 1925 weatherboard, and Bar Suprette, a locally run wine bar.
Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Destination NSW
Uncover a starkly beautiful landscape of ancient dry lake basins and sand formations in Mungo National Park. Home to Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, this area of NSW is rich with Aboriginal history and is of great significance to the local indigenous people.
Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Destination NSW
Uncover a starkly beautiful landscape of ancient dry lake basins and sand formations in Mungo National Park. Home to Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, this area of NSW is rich with Aboriginal history and is of great significance to the local indigenous people.
Merimbula Oyster Tours, Merimbula Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of oyster farms in Merimbula Lake during sunset.
Merimbula Oyster Tours, Merimbula Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of oyster farms in Merimbula Lake during sunset.
6. Sip Semillon in the Hunter Valley
Raise a glass in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region and home to world-class Semillon. Spend the day visiting some of the region’s many cellar doors including Krinklewood, Tyrrell’s and Audrey Wilkinson, sampling crisp whites and bold reds, and pairing them with gourmet local produce. Afterwards, saddle up to explore the valley on horseback with Hunter Valley Horse Riding, see the region from above with Hunter Valley Helicopters, or put your feet up at a luxury retreat.
7. Hike Australia’s Tallest Peak in the Snowy Mountains
Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. The 18.6-kilometre return walk from Charlotte Pass offers sweeping alpine views, wildflowers in summer, and a sense of achievement at the top. Before you explore the fabulous walking tracks in the Snowy Mountains, read these bushwalking safety tips and follow the advice from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
8. Learn About Sydney’s Indigenous History on a Burrawa BridgeClimb
See Sydney from a new perspective with Burrawa BridgeClimb, a unique experience that shares the stories of the Gadigal people while you ascend the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Hear about the harbour’s cultural significance, learn traditional language, and take in panoramic views of the city. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Sydney’s rich Aboriginal heritage.
9. Go Dolphin Spotting in Jervis Bay
Crystal-clear waters and resident pods of playful dolphins make Jervis Bay a must-visit. Join a dolphin-watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild and glide across turquoise seas, keeping an eye out for these graceful creatures along with the seals, penguins, seabirds that call Jervis Bay Marine Park home. With white-sand beaches and calm waters, Jervis Bay is also perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the shore.
10. See the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains
Part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the Three Sisters is an iconic formation that you must see at least once in your lifetime. Gaze at these towering sandstone formations from Echo Point Lookout, then explore the surrounding trails for breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley. Or, for a different point of view head to Scenic World to see the Three Sisters from the Scenic Skyway.
BridgeClimb, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying the Burrawa Indigenous Experience at BridgeClimb, Sydney.
BridgeClimb, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying the Burrawa Indigenous Experience at BridgeClimb, Sydney.
Anderson's Tours, Echo Point Credit: Destination NSW
Anderson's Tours offers a small group touring experience to the Blue Mountains including Echo Point Lookout.
Anderson's Tours, Echo Point Credit: Destination NSW
Anderson's Tours offers a small group touring experience to the Blue Mountains including Echo Point Lookout.
More Inspirational Stories
Bogey Hole, NewcastleCredit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a swim at Bogey Hole ocean pools in Newcastle at sunrise.
Ready to dive in? New South Wales offers endless ways to cool off in nature’s most beautiful settings. From sparkling ocean pools and secret waterfalls to natural springs, NSW is brimming with swim spots to refresh or explore your adventurous side.
Whether you’re chasing coastal charm or inland tranquility, pack your swimmers, grab your sunscreen and explore these stunning NSW swim spots to make your summer unforgettable.
Coastal Classics and Ocean Pools
More than 100 ocean pools sparkle along the NSW coast, offering special swimming spots and picturesque stops on coastal road trips. Start your summer by the sea at Bogey Hole in Newcastle, NSW’s oldest rock pool hand-carved out of the rock platform in 1819. This heritage-listed gem offers dramatic views and a refreshing dip.
If you’re in the Sawtell and ECO-certified destination Coffs Coast area, the Sawtell Memorial Rockpool is a beautiful spot with its natural rock bar edge and prime position tucked into the headland.
For another showstopping ocean pool experience, head to the Blowhole Point Ocean Pool in Kiama. This family-friendly pool sits right by the famous Kiama Blowhole, offering calm waters and amazing coastal views – the perfect place to cool off after exploring one of NSW’s iconic attractions.
Or go further south to the Sapphire Coast to visit the spectacular Bermagui Blue Pool, a natural rock pool with turquoise waters and sweeping coastal vistas. It's ideal for a sunrise swim or family day out.
Bogey Hole, Newcastle Credit: Time Out
People enjoying a dip in the Bogey Hole, Newcastle.
Bogey Hole, Newcastle Credit: Time Out
People enjoying a dip in the Bogey Hole, Newcastle.
Bermagui Blue Pool, Bermagui Credit: Destination NSW
Couple at Bermagui Blue Pool, Sapphire Coast, NSW
Bermagui Blue Pool, Bermagui Credit: Destination NSW
Couple at Bermagui Blue Pool, Sapphire Coast, NSW
Waterfalls and Natural Pools
Trade the beach for the bush and relax in some of NSW’s spectacular waterfalls.
In the Southern Highlands, cool off in the natural pools at Bargo State Conservation Area, where swimming spots at Little River and Moore Creek offer refreshing bushland escapes.
Or head to the ECO-certified destination Blue Mountains, where you can visit Blue Pool in Glenbrook (check conditions with the National Parks Information Centre at the Glenbrook Park Entrance before swimming) or the Victoria Falls waterhole for serene swimming spots.
Further north, Unicorn Falls in the Tweed region is a hidden gem with a serene swimming hole, perfect for those looking for off-the-beaten-path beauty.
Inland Escapes
For something truly unique, head inland for thermal pools and hidden swim spots surrounded by rugged bush and epic scenery.
Explore Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool in Kosciuszko National Park, a 27-degree pool which is a year-round favourite fed by a natural spring. Views don’t get better than this in the Snowy Mountains, swimming surrounded by alpine scenery and limestone caves.
Or visit Sofala near Bathurst and try your luck panning for gold dust in the Turon River - and if fortune doesn’t strike, you can still enjoy fishing and swimming in its cool waters.
Note: follow this helpful advice to ensure you stay safe and well during your visit to New South Wales:
Yarranobilly Caves Thermal Pool, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Couple explores the Yarranobilly Caves Thermal Pool, Yarrangobilly, Snowy Mountains
Yarranobilly Caves Thermal Pool, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Couple explores the Yarranobilly Caves Thermal Pool, Yarrangobilly, Snowy Mountains
Gold Panning, Sofala Credit: Destination NSW
Gold panning guide and family in Sofala
Gold Panning, Sofala Credit: Destination NSW
Gold panning guide and family in Sofala