Angourie Bay, AngourieCredit: Destination NSW
Scenic coastal aerial overlooking Angourie Bay, Angourie.
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Sense your body lighten and your mood lift as you trace the coastline from Coffs Harbour to Tweed Heads on a memory-making road trip. The soul-stirring northern section of the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive spans just 285km, but with plenty of scenic stops to be uncovered on the way, you’ll want to slow down and savour every moment. Start your engine and begin with these highlights.
Find your favourite beach on the Coffs Coast
Shift into holiday mode on the Coffs Coast, a five-and-a-half-hour drive (or 530km) north of Sydney, where you’ll find sparkling beaches and lush coastal forests complemented by a bounty of family-friendly attractions.
Embrace the opportunity to experience the region’s glorious beaches as you begin your journey north from Coffs Harbour. Bliss out in the peaceful natural setting of Moonee Beach, just 15 minutes north of the iconic Big Banana, where the serene Moonee Creek kisses the sea. Take an enlivening dip or be awed by the cultural significance of the Coffs Coast on an Aboriginal-guided stand-up paddleboarding tour with Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours along a crystalline creek.
Sense your excitement building for a quintessentially Australian wildlife encounter at nearby Emerald Beach, where kangaroos can often be spotted grazing alongside the Look at Me Now Headland Walk. Then connect with the local community over a craft beer at Woolgoolga Brewing Co. before continuing to Yamba.
Explore and unwind in Yamba
Treat yourself to a coastal-luxe stay at The Surf, a modern boutique hotel perched above the Pacific Ocean in the relaxed fishing town of Yamba. Order a gourmet platter to enjoy on the rooftop terrace, and take a soothing dip in the heated pool. Then head into town for a satisfying meal at Beechwood Cafe , beloved by locals for its Turkish-inspired dishes, or Karrikin, which combines the region’s local catch and seasonal produce to create dishes made for savouring by the sea. Slurp down oysters as you watch the surf roll in from the Pacific Hotel, or satisfy a craving for a crunchy Neapolitan-style pizza at Drift.
Pick up your paddle to explore waterways on a tour with Yamba Kayak. Experience the buzz of an eye-to-eye encounter with dolphins along the estuary, and be mesmerised by migrating whales from May through November. Or get a kick out of reeling in your own dinner on a fishing charter with Reel Time Fishing Charters or Yamba Fishing and Charters.
Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours, Coffs Creek, Coffs Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours stand-up paddle boarders on Coffs Creek, Coffs Harbour.
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Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours, Coffs Creek, Coffs Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours stand-up paddle boarders on Coffs Creek, Coffs Harbour.
The Surf, Yamba Credit: Elise Hassey
The Surf is Yamba’s first boutique hotel.
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The Surf, Yamba Credit: Elise Hassey
The Surf is Yamba’s first boutique hotel.
Be surprised by Ballina
After welcoming the day with a revitalising surf at Spooky Beach in Yamba’s neighbour Angourie, or an exhilarating jump in the freshwater Blue Pool on its headland, prepare to be bowled over by the riverside town of Ballina, another 100km north on the Pacific Highway. Watch bottlenose dolphins frolic in the surf as you linger over a wholesome brunch at the oceanfront Shelly Beach Cafe, or admire the playful creatures at even closer range on an action-packed dolphin cruise with Out of the Blue Adventures.
Lace your walking shoes for a historical journey on Aboriginal Cultural Ways, a coastal pathway in East Ballina where 22 interpretative panels reveal the region’s Aboriginal stories. Then toast to an incredible day with a creative cocktail at Hey Lady, followed by a mouth-watering European-inspired meal at Lola Dining.
Uncover your favourite corner of the Byron Shire
Be mesmerised by the coastal scenery during the 30-minute drive to Byron Bay as the road winds past dramatic headlands, dreamy beaches, rolling farms and lush patches of coastal rainforest. Then choose your own adventure in the popular seaside town: get a buzz learning to surf with Lets Go Surfing, or experience Byron’s beaches in a thrilling new way on a trail ride with Zephyr Horses. Or relax into the Byron vibe over a memorable meal at the recently opened Jonson Lane complex, where restaurants including Pixie Food & Wine, Bar Heather and Light Years tempt the tastebuds with Italian, contemporary Australian and pan-Asian delights respectively.
Or head for the charming hinterland village of Bangalow, where recently hatted restaurants Ciao Mate and You Beauty invite you to sink your teeth into woodfired pizzas and hyper-local contemporary fare. Brunswick Heads to the north offers another chilled-out taste of the Byron Shire, where a Byron Bay Eco Cruises & Kayaks sunset rainforest river cruise can be topped off with a deliciously smoky mezcal margarita at Mexican restaurant La Casita. Or sample next-level rotisserie chicken at newly opened Birds of Paradise, from the team behind local fine-diner Fleet, due to reopen in 2023. Sleep easy at The Brunswick, a stylish renovated motel conveniently located across the road.
Lets Go Surfing, Byron Bay Credit: Lets Go Surfing
Small group enjoying a surf lesson in Byron Bay with Lets Go Surfing surf school.Usage: Only for promotion of Lets Go Surfing.
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Lets Go Surfing, Byron Bay Credit: Lets Go Surfing
Small group enjoying a surf lesson in Byron Bay with Lets Go Surfing surf school.Usage: Only for promotion of Lets Go Surfing.
Zephyr Horses, Byron Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Group enjoying a horse-riding experience along Tyagarah Beach with Zephryr Horses in Byron Bay.
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Zephyr Horses, Byron Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Group enjoying a horse-riding experience along Tyagarah Beach with Zephryr Horses in Byron Bay.
Taste the Tweed
Unleash your appetite in the Tweed, a verdant coastal farming region that hugs the coast for 35km from Wooyung to Tweed Heads. Follow the Tweed Coast Road to pair superb seaside dining at the likes of Pipit in Pottsville and No. 35 Kitchen & Bar in Cabarita with refreshing beach swims and glamping fun at Hideaway Cabarita.
Or head inland on the verdant, winding Tweed Valley Way to Murwillumbah to peek into the meticulously recreated home of celebrated still-life artist Margaret Olley at the excellent Tweed Regional Gallery. Recharge with a leisurely contemporary Australian lunch at Bistro Livi, where you can linger over European-influenced dishes served in one of the town’s many restored art deco buildings. Or give yourself a day off driving and leave your gourmet Tweed itinerary to Kiff & Culture, with tours including a tantalising taste of the Tweed hinterland.
Sliding back into your own driver’s seat, follow the Tweed Valley Way to the town of Tweed Heads. It’s only a 30-minute drive, but with diversions including gin and rum tastings at Husk Distillery in Tumbulgum, relaxed paddock-to-plate lunching at Farm & Co in Cudgen, and sweet and savoury temptations that will leave your tastebuds tingling at Cubby Bakehouse in Chinderah, what’s the rush?
Pipit Restaurant, Pottsville Credit: Sabine Bannard
Pipit in the tiny town of Pottsville.
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Pipit Restaurant, Pottsville Credit: Sabine Bannard
Pipit in the tiny town of Pottsville.
Husk Distillers, North Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW
Couple touring the Husk Farm Distillers property in North Tumbulgum and meeting the resident cattle.
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Husk Distillers, North Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW
Couple touring the Husk Farm Distillers property in North Tumbulgum and meeting the resident cattle.
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.