Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
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You’ll feel like you’ve entered another realm when you touch down on UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, just a two-hour flight from Sydney. Indeed, its otherworldly landscapes have been compared to the fictitious Isla Nublar from the Jurassic Park movies. With Jurassic World Dominion, the sixth film in the series, hitting Australian cinemas on 10 June, satisfy your appetite for adventure in New South Wales’s own Jurassic Park with these eight itinerary highlights.
Get a buzz scaling an ancient volcano
Like Isla Nublar, Lord Howe Island has volcanic origins — it’s a remnant of a shield volcano that erupted some seven million years ago. Rising up from its southern tip is one of the small island’s most distinctive volcanic features, the hulking basalt peak of Mt Gower (875m). Get your adrenaline pumping on a guided scramble to the summit, a challenging full-day hike that rewards you with misty-eye-inducing views across the 11km-long island. On the way up, you’ll pass through ecosystems so surreal you’ll feel like you’re in a fantasy film of your own.
Be awed by an ancient icon
Marvel at another volcanic wonder in the form of the world’s tallest volcanic stack, Balls Pyramid, which shoots 551m out of the ocean. Located 23km offshore, Balls Pyramid is home to another ancient relic, the Lord Howe Island phasmid, a giant stick insect thought to be extinct for decades before it was rediscovered here in 2001. While climbing Balls Pyramid isn’t permitted, some of the region’s most beautiful coral reefs fringe the sea stack. Admire them on a thrilling snorkelling or scuba diving tour.
Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
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Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
Discover species that live nowhere else
While you won’t find any man-eating prehistoric reptiles lurking on Lord Howe Island, you can delight in encountering dozens of plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Among its most famous endemic creatures is the Lord Howe woodhen, a chocolate-coloured ground-dwelling bird that has made a remarkable comeback following a recent major conservation initiative. Look out for these curious birds as you explore the island.
Jump on a bike and lap up the lack of crowds
Revel in the solitude as you cycle around Lord Howe Island, the most popular way to get around. With less than 400 residents, and daily visitors capped at 400 to help preserve the island’s natural beauty and laidback vibe, this is one destination where you’ll never need to worry about crowds, let alone dinosaurs. Some accommodations offer complimentary bikes, or you can rent one.
Dive into idyllic beaches
Take your pick of Lord Howe Island’s dazzling beaches, with 11 to choose from — and not a Mosasaurus in sight. Chase waves at Blinky Beach, go paddleboarding or kayaking on the island’s famed aquamarine lagoon. Hike over land or take a tour to North Bay’s beach, strap on a snorkel and be wowed by the vibrant colours of the corals just metres offshore from Ned’s Beach, which teem with rare reef fish. Or fully immerse yourself in the world’s most southerly barrier reef with Pro Dive.
Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
#feelnsw
Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
Hike through forests from another era
Lord Howe Island may not have been formed until more than 50 million years after the last dinosaurs died out, but as you hike along trails weaving through subtropical forests that have evolved over thousands of years, it’s easy to think you’ve stepped into a bygone era. Take an energising 1.5km hike up Malabar Hill at the northern end of the island to pair ancient forests with awe-inspiring views. Between September and May, be dazzled by the airborne courting rituals of red-tailed tropicbirds at the top.
Feast on fresh island produce
Located 600km east of the Australian mainland — much further from land than its Jurassic Park doppelganger — Lord Howe Island’s remoteness means local produce is king, from freshly caught kingfish to home-grown vegetables. There’s even beer brewed locally; head to The Nursery Lord Howe Island to taste ales from the taproom, perhaps also picking up some fresh veggies to cook in your accommodation. Or leave the cooking to local restaurants such as the Coral Cafe, where succulent local kingfish is usually on the menu, or Earl’s Anchorage, also known for its local produce-led fare.
Kick off your hiking boots at a luxury stay
Jurassic Park fans may remember the luxe Hilton Isla Nublar from Jurassic World, the fourth film in the series. On Lord Howe Island, you have the luxury of choosing from a wider range of special stays. Gaze out towards Mt Gower from the infinity pool at Capella Lodge, soak up the heritage along with the relaxed vibe at Pinetrees, be soothed by the kentia palm forest cocooning Arajilla Retreat, or channel your inner Hemsworth on an ultra-luxe stay at Island House.
Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
#feelnsw
Lord Howe Island Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views of Lord Howe Island captured by Eugene Tan
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
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
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.