Scenic Drive, MudgeeCredit: Destination NSW
The scenic country landscape near Mudgee.
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Grand Pacific Drive
Where?
Sydney–Royal National Park–Kiama–Shoalhaven
You’ve got:
2 days
The Grand Pacific Drive is one of Australia's most breathtaking routes, taking you south via rainforests, seaside villages and spectacular coastline.
DAY 1: Sydney to Royal National Park to Kiama — 120km/2 hours
Call in on the Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, have a swim at one of its beaches (like Wattamolla), then continue across the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, which extends over the ocean as it hugs the coast. In Kiama, check out the famous Blowhole and the town’s beautiful beaches.
DAY 2: Kiama to Shoalhaven to Jervis Bay — 75km/1 hour
Call in on the seaside village of Gerroa for a swim or a surf. Then head south to Jervis Bay, boasting white sand beaches, sapphire seas and resident dolphins. On the way back to Sydney, take a hinterland drive via Berry or Kangaroo Valley.
Greater Blue Mountains Drive
Where?
Sydney–Katoomba–Jenolan Caves
You’ve got:
2 days
Its close proximity to Sydney, and its cable cars, caves and cafés, make the Greater Blue Mountains Drive a perfect weekend getaway for the whole family.
DAY 1: Sydney to Katoomba — 100km/1.5 hours
Climb into the mountains past pretty towns such as Wentworth Falls and Leura. At Katoomba, head to Scenic World for thrilling cable car and train rides, and use the town as a base to explore the Blue Mountains National Park.
DAY 2: Katoomba to Jenolan Caves — 98km/90 minutes
Head towards to the charming village of Blackheath, known for its cafés and galleries. Continue on to Jenolan Caves to discover chasms, stalactites and stalagmites.
Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
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Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
Aerial, Huskisson, Jervis Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Huskisson in Jervis Bay
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Aerial, Huskisson, Jervis Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Huskisson in Jervis Bay
NSW Food & Wine Trail
Where?
Sydney–Lithgow–Orange–Cowra–Mudgee
You’ve got:
4 days
Follow the NSW Food & Wine Trail and teach your children where their food comes from, visiting farmers markets, artisan producers and paddock-to-plate eateries.
DAY 1: Sydney to Lithgow — 140km/2 hours
On the western edge of the Blue Mountains is the town of Lithgow. Visit the Secret Creek Cafe for a plant-based meal in a wildlife sanctuary. Then sample fresh cheese at Jannei Goat Dairy.
DAY 2: Lithgow to Orange — 120km/1.5 hours
Sample cool-climate wines from one of the many cellar doors near Orange, buy fresh fruit from an orchard, and pick berries at Huntley Berry Farm. Stock up on local produce at The Agrestic Grocer and indulge in fine dining at Tonic.
DAY 3: Orange to Cowra — 90km/70 minutes
Drive through olive groves, orchards and vineyards to Canowindra. Then continue on to historic Cowra, bursting with food and wine experiences, including tours, cellar doors and the annual Cowra Wine Show Public Tasting.
DAY 4: Cowra to Mudgee — 230km/3 hours
Visit a cellar door or two. The temperate climate in Mudgee produces wines of great depth and intensity. On the third Sunday of the month, try a Mudgee Farm Walk through local working farms. It’s a 3.5-hour drive back to Sydney through the Blue Mountains.
Legendary Pacific Coast
Where?
Sydney–Port Stephens–South West Rocks–Coffs Harbour–Tweed Heads
You’ve got:
4 days
Head north on the Legendary Pacific Coast to find rolling green hinterland, surf beaches and lots of family fun.
DAY 1: Sydney to Port Stephens — 185km/2.5 hours
Head north from Sydney and pass through the Central Coast with its picturesque villages such as Terrigal and Avoca Beach. Fly on a zip line at Treetops Adventure Newcastle, before continuing to Port Stephens, an idyllic seaside getaway.
DAY 2: Port Stephens to South West Rocks — 285km/3 hours
In Port Macquarie, call in at the Koala Hospital, and at pretty South West Rocks visit the Smoky Cape Lighthouse, a great vantage point for whale watching between May and November.
DAY 3: South West Rocks to Coffs Harbour — 100km/70 minutes
Coffs Harbour is packed with activities for families. The kids will love the amusement rides at the Big Banana Fun Park. Visit the Butterfly House, and learn to scuba dive, or even swim with humpback whales, through Jetty Dive.
DAY 4: Coffs Harbour to Tweed Heads — 285km/3 hours
Explore the Byron Bay area, famed for its lush hinterland, fresh produce, breathtaking beaches and creative community. Further north, you’ll find Tweed Heads, offering fishing charters, houseboats for hire, and snorkelling and diving.
Glenayr Farm, Mudgee Credit: Glenayr Farm, Mudgee
Luxury Glamping and Villas in Mudgee with a unique accommodation experience. Set on a 320 acre working sheep property of secluded quintessential Australian landscape, yet close to Mudgee’s famous wineries and restaurants.
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Glenayr Farm, Mudgee Credit: Glenayr Farm, Mudgee
Luxury Glamping and Villas in Mudgee with a unique accommodation experience. Set on a 320 acre working sheep property of secluded quintessential Australian landscape, yet close to Mudgee’s famous wineries and restaurants.
Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill Credit: Destination NSW
Visitors walking amongst the trees at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill south of Wollongong.
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Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill Credit: Destination NSW
Visitors walking amongst the trees at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill south of Wollongong.
Kosciuszko Alpine Way
Where?
Sydney–Canberra–Cooma–Jindabyne–Kosciuszko National Park
You’ve got:
4 days
Travel to the roof of Australia along the Kosciuszko Alpine Way through the Snowy Mountains. You’ll discover pristine scenery, icy lakes and plenty of outdoor adventures.
DAY 1: Sydney to Canberra — 285km/3 hours
Hit the road southwest from Sydney towards Canberra. You’ll pass through the Southern Highlands and past the famous Big Merino in Goulburn, a 15m tall statue of a ram that’s a monument to the region’s fine-wool industry.
DAY 2: Canberra to Cooma — 120km/90 minutes
Travel through farmland to the gateway of the Snowy Mountains. Historic Cooma is the largest town in the Snowies and home to the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre. Dig for truffles in the countryside or fish for trout in lakes and rivers.
DAY 3: Cooma to Jindabyne — 60km/45 minutes
Perched on the edge of a sparkling lake, the scenic town of Jindabyne offers outdoor adventure and gourmet delights. It’s a great base for the snowfields in colder months, and kayaking and mountain biking when it’s warmer.
DAY 4: Jindabyne to Kosciuszko National Park — 110km/2 hours
Wind through the spectacular forests and mountain ranges of Kosciuszko National Park into the heart of NSW’s High Country. Hike to Australia’s highest point, Mount Kosciuszko, go fly-fishing in icy rivers or try horse riding along alpine trails.
Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
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Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW
Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
Camping, Kosciuzko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Camping underneath the stars at Island Bend Campground in Kosciuszko National Park.
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Camping, Kosciuzko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Camping underneath the stars at Island Bend Campground in Kosciuszko National Park.
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.