Sea Cliff Bridge, CliftonCredit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
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Buckle up for a spectacular journey exploring the Grand Pacific Drive, taking in rugged coastal cliffs, pretty beachside towns and secluded stretches of sand, stopping in at wineries and immersing in pockets of rainforest all within easy reach of Sydney.
Coast along ocean roads
Heading south from central Sydney, your journey begins well before the official starting point of the Grand Pacific Drive. Relish an increasing sense of freedom as you leave Sydney’s southern suburbs behind and find yourself driving through the open coastal bushland of the Royal National Park. Cruise into the first-ever declared national park in the country for an invigorating hike along one of the many walking trails in this expansive oceanside nature reserve, or make memories when you come face to furry face with a koala at Symbio Wildlife Park, immediately south of the Royal National Park in Helensburgh.
Follow the winding road down the steep escarpment from the Royal National Park to begin your Grand Pacific Drive odyssey by cruising along the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, which winds for 665m around sheer cliff faces with the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing below. Rest and recharge with coffee and a refreshing swim at one of the beachside villages along the coastal road, such as Austinmer, before continuing on to Wollongong, NSW’s third-largest city. Here you can immerse in Aboriginal, Asian, colonial and contemporary art at Wollongong Art Gallery, tour fascinating Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere, or dive under the waves at one of the city’s golden beaches.
Hug the coastline as you leave Wollongong bound for the stunning surf beaches of Shellharbour, taking in the bird-rich expanses of Lake Illawarra to your right and the deep blue of the ocean to your left along the way. Marvel at the skill of surfers catching powerful waves at Minnamurra Beach and Killalea Beach, which together form the Killalea National Surfing Reserve. Join awestruck locals at Minnamurra Whale Watching Platform to spot majestic humpback whales making their way along the coast on their annual migration from Antarctica from May to July and from September to November.
Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
Friendly koala at Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh in the Illawarra region.
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Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
Friendly koala at Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh in the Illawarra region.
Minnamurra River, NSW Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
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Minnamurra River, NSW Credit: Destination NSW
Friends kayaking on the Minnamurra River on the NSW South Coast
Have a blast in Kiama
Jump back in your car for the short drive to Kiama, a pretty beachside town that’s best known as the home of the world’s largest blowhole. Glory to the power of nature as the ocean sprays water 30m into the sky at the Kiama Blowhole before following the Kiama Coast Walk track to Little Blowhole and a seemingly never-ending series of scenic headlands and bays. Recharge after a bracing coastal walk with a wholesome burger at Kiama’s Hungry Monkey, or graze on the all-day brunch menu at Diggies Kiama. Linger longer and top up your ‘vitamin sea’ levels while taking in the ocean views from your room at one of the many accommodation options in Kiama.
Rejoin Princes Highway for the 10-minute drive to Crooked River Wines, to sample fine wines and craft beer and slide down freshly shucked South Coast oysters, before the short drive to Gerringong, a classic beach town where the allure of the laidback lifestyle is hard to resist. Slip back into the swimsuit you’ve left drying in the back of the car for a revitalising dip at Gerringong’s Werri Beach before easing into a seat at The Hill Bar and Kitchen for a post-swim snack of locally sourced seafood or perhaps an ale or a glass of wine.
Cruise from Gerringong through lush coastal farmland to the village of Gerroa for a soul-soothing walk along the white sands of Seven Mile Beach before checking into a beach house looking out over the ocean. Or steer your car back onto the coastal road to cross into Seven Mile Beach National Park and the start of the Shoalhaven region. Settle in to a secluded luxury suite at Bangalay Luxury Villas at Shoalhaven Heads, at the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, to rest before communing with the ocean on a sunset stroll. Complete a memorable day of exploration by indulging in incredible food incorporating native ingredients and locally sourced and foraged ingredients at the in-house restaurant Bangalay Dining.
Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa/Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer catching waves at Seven Mile Beach which stretches from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads.
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Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa/Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer catching waves at Seven Mile Beach which stretches from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads.
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.
Go wild in Jervis Bay
Keep the good times coming by sampling your way south at the wineries of the Shoalhaven Wine Coast, including Coolangatta Estate and Mountain Ridge Wines, both around a five-minute drive from Bangalay Luxury Villas. Then follow the Shoalhaven River inland and cross the placid waterway on the outskirts of Nowra, the largest town in the region.
Refuel yourself and your car before the 20-minute drive from Nowra to the sheltered waters of Jervis Bay. Here you can splash around on powder-white, tree-lined beaches or hire a kayak from Sea Kayak Jervis Bay to paddle the clear waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park while spotting dolphins, seabirds and penguins. Take a scenic cruise with Dolphin Watch Cruises for a thrilling encounter with bottlenose dolphins — and with migrating humpback whales in winter and spring. Or slide under the waves and swim with seals and colourful reef fish with Dive Jervis Bay.
Relish an unusual wine pairing with a Whales & Wine tour, combining tastings at two local vineyards with a two-hour whale-watching cruise around the bay. And bliss out in a cottage or glamping tent at The Woods Farm or retreat to an elevated safari-style luxury tent at Paperbark Camp to restore your energy levels ahead of another memorable day on the bay.
Coolangatta Estate, Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over the scenic grounds of Coolangatta Estate, Shoalhaven Heads.
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Coolangatta Estate, Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Destination NSW
Sun setting over the scenic grounds of Coolangatta Estate, Shoalhaven Heads.
Dolphin Watch Cruises, Jervis Bay Credit: Somethingswild
Sun rising over Huskisson Wharf in Jervis Bay.
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Dolphin Watch Cruises, Jervis Bay Credit: Somethingswild
Sun rising over Huskisson Wharf in Jervis Bay.
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.