North Durras, Murramarang National Park Credit: Josh Burkinshaw
Woman swimming in the water at North Durras, Murramarang National Park
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Shake off the sameness of your regular routine and embrace adventure on an action-packed trip to Monero, Ngarigo, Wiradjuri and Yuin Country. From the rugged beauty of the Snowy Mountains to gorgeous coastline hugging turquoise bay, the Southern regions of NSW offer pristine national parks with an incredible variety of landscapes to explore.
Soak away stress in a spring-fed thermal pool
As you drive from the big smoke into the Kosciuszko National Park, wind down the window to inhale that fresh mountain air – you can practically feel the oxygen revitalising your cells. Head straight for the Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool. Hidden deep in a valley and sheltered by towering eucalypts, the pool is accessible by a well-formed but steep 700m track. Fed by an underground spring, its waters stay balmy all year round, and if you’re there early in the morning, expect a cloud of mist to dance upon its surface. Slipping into the embrace of the 27-degree water feels like hitting the reset button, rinsing off all of your tension and stress. Nearby is the pristine Yarrangobilly River, so if you’re feeling brave after your soak, hop out and take a cooling dip to get the blood flowing!
Get your heart pumping on a mountain bike ride through an ancient pine forest
Ride past enormous 400-year-old mountain plum pines (a favourite of the endangered mountain pygmy possum) and reground yourself along the historic 36km Thredbo Valley Track on Monero Ngarigo Country in the Kosciuszko National Park. Hire a mountain bike locally if you don’t have your own and choose a section which appeals. Families will love the 11.8km return trip from Thredbo to Old Ranger Station, which traverses along startling alpine scenery across multiple picturesque suspension bridges – keep your eye out for flowering purple hovea in spring. For more experienced riders, Bullocks Flat to Gaden Trout Hatchery is packed with challenges, including tight switchbacks and steep gradients. Pause for a moment’s rest at scenic Boulder lookout, just over halfway along the track.
Yarrangobilly River Walk, Kosciuszko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a dip in the natural thermal springs in the Yarrongobilly area, Kosciuszko National Park.
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Yarrangobilly River Walk, Kosciuszko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a dip in the natural thermal springs in the Yarrongobilly area, Kosciuszko National Park.
The Diggings, Kosciuszko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a scenic bushwalk by Thredbo River near The Diggings Campground in Kosciuszko National Park.
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The Diggings, Kosciuszko National Park Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a scenic bushwalk by Thredbo River near The Diggings Campground in Kosciuszko National Park.
Be immersed in the world’s oldest living culture on a sacred mountain in Yuin Country
The hills, rocks and waterways of the Bega, Bermagui and Narooma regions have been sacred to the Yuin people for millennia – yet some of their stories have not been widely shared. Walk with the Traditional Custodians of this fertile Country on the Yuin Retreat, a wildly impactful two-day cultural immersion experience that takes in Gulaga National Park and runs between October and May every year.
Highlights include a traditional sunrise ceremony, a guided walk on the sacred Gulaga Mountain, and excellent catering with an Aboriginal twist. This is a unique opportunity to be welcomed into the world’s oldest living continuing culture and learn from lead guide Dwayne ‘Naja’ Bannon-Harrison from Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness, who has nine generations of knowledge and wisdom to pass down. You might even learn something new about yourself along the way.
Enjoy homemade scones in a rare coastal spotted gum forests on a guided ecology walk
Murramarang National Park spans 44km of gorgeous coastline a few hours south of Sydney: think pastel coves hugging turquoise bays, striking cliffs and spotted gums growing right down to the ocean. Bushwalking here is always a life-affirming experience – but if you book a guided tour with Paul Dickson, conservationist and founder of Nature Engagement Tours, you’ll get to walk this area in a much more intimate way.
The more you learn about the natural world, the more you want to learn – and the more you care about it. This is part of the logic behind Paul’s approach to his tours: increasing the value people place on nature by giving them experiences of connection to it. On his Scones of the Forest tour, Paul takes groups of up to 10 people on a six-hour walk into the bush, visiting lesser-known places, pointing out rare plants and animals, and feeding everyone homemade scones whipped up by his mum, complete with jam and cream. Keep an eye out for ‘Old Blotchy’, a 58m-tall spotted gum tree that’s more than 400 years old – and watch out for kangaroos hopping around on Pebbly Beach.
Stay in a beachside cabin with kangaroos as your neighbours
Nothing renews the spirit like waking up in the wilderness. In this case, it’s a rustic beach shack wedged between towering blue gums and the waves of Depot Beach within the Murramarang National Park near Batemans Bay. The self-contained Depot Beach Cabins is set in a secluded and beautiful location with direct access to the water, so you can roll right out of bed to the morning chirps of rainbow lorikeets and into the aquamarine sea. Spend a couple of lazy days relaxing in the sun, bathing in the ocean, reading books, exploring the neighbouring endangered rainforest and throwing in the occasional line to see if you can lure a fresh fish for dinner – there’s an outdoor woodfire oven to roast your catch. Though this picturesque corner of the world is quiet and restful, it’s also teeming with life, especially eastern grey kangaroos – some of which you might even catch grazing on the grass right in front of your cabin.
Stay safe in NSW national parks. Plan by checking the NPWS website for alerts and closures before visiting a park. For more safety tips and park alerts visit nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety
Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, Narooma Credit: Destination NSW
Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness guide Dwayne Bannon-Harrison sharing his cultural knowledge on a guided tour of the Eurobodalla region.
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Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, Narooma Credit: Destination NSW
Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness guide Dwayne Bannon-Harrison sharing his cultural knowledge on a guided tour of the Eurobodalla region.
NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras Credit: Destination NSW
A group of friends preparing for a surf surrounded by Kangaroos at Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort in South Durras.
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NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras Credit: Destination NSW
A group of friends preparing for a surf surrounded by Kangaroos at Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort in South Durras.
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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.