Riverside Walk, BellingenCredit: Destination NSW
Exploring hidden waterways in Bellingen. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
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Restore your spirits on a trip to the New South Wales Northern Rivers, where a raft of new opportunities to relax and indulge invite you to experience the region anew. From a novel new way to boost your serotonin levels in the Tweed Valley to sensational new gourmet experiences to lap up from the coast to the hinterland, here are just a few new reasons to plan your next trip to the Far North Coast.
Wind down on the winding Northern Rivers Rail Trail
Explore the Tweed Valley from fresh new angles on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, a former rail corridor transformed into a serene shared-user path winding through some of Australia’s most spectacular countryside. Soak up the calming rural setting of the first 24km leg of the trail, opened on 1 March, 2023, as it takes you from Murwillumbah’s heritage-listed train station past charming hinterland villages, rolling farmlands and lush pockets of rainforest en route to the village of Crabbes Creek. Hit the trail on foot or hire a bike from Murwillumbah Cycles, located right on the train platform — and be sure to factor in time to explore gourmet diversions along the way.
Savour new flavours at Byron Bay’s new restaurants
Get ready to wrap your mouth around a smorgasbord of new restaurants in the buzzy North Coast town of Byron Bay, where beautiful beaches fringe an ever-changing array of tempting dining options. Enjoy the convenience of having three excellent eateries to choose from in the snazzy new Jonson Lane precinct at the southern end of Byron’s main street: pair moreish small plates with natural wine at Bar Heather; satiate modern-Italian cravings at Pixie; and tuck into zingy pan-Asian dishes at the beautifully outfitted new home of Light Years. In the heart of town, try one of everything at Tapas Bar; indulge in a sweet treat at Eclair by the Bay; and watch chefs whip up hibachi grill-focused Japanese delights from a counter seat at nearby Moonlight.
Bar Heather, Byron Bay Credit: Jess Kearney
Bar Heather, Byron Bay
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Bar Heather, Byron Bay Credit: Jess Kearney
Bar Heather, Byron Bay
Ease into a new haven of relaxation in Mullumbimby
Feel your worries melt away at The Banya, a European-style bathhouse now open in the heart of Mullumbimby, just a 20-minute drive northwest of Byron Bay. Admire the venue’s characterful setting in a red-brick former bank dating from the 1920s before working your way around its tiled lap pool, three large hot mineral pools, wood-fired sauna, steam room and cold plunge pool. Feel any lingering stress melt away with a life-affirming massage, then wallow in a post-treatment time-out on the sundeck. Make a day of it and stay on to enjoy a wholesome lunch or a cheeky craft cocktail at the Banya’s onsite Dining Room. Or make a night of it and check into a stylish pavilion at Blackbird Byron in the Mullumbimby hinterland, another oasis of tranquillity also with an invigorating mineral pool.
Delve into food and culture in the Tweed hinterland
Treat yourself to an indulgent exploration of the Tweed hinterland on the Tweed Valley Food and Culture tour, which was recently launched by local operator Kiff & Culture. Sample tasty morsels at a tropical fruit plantation and a local cheesemaker, engage with local creatives at a vibrant Murwillumbah arts precinct, and toast to a leisurely lunch at Husk Distillers with a refreshing artisan gin or rum cocktail. Or revel in the freedom of exploring the region at your own pace, uncovering new culinary experiences such as Sunfall Tapas Bar, in seaside Kingscliff, and the wholesome Farm & Co restaurant in Cudgen along the way. And if you loved your day out with Kiff & Culture in the Tweed, prime your palate for another delicious day out in the Northern Rivers on the company’s new Byron Hinterland Paddock to Plate tour.
Bond over share plates in Ballina
Drink in the stirring views during the 30-minute coastal drive south from Byron Bay to riverside Ballina, where holiday memory-making opportunities go beyond scoring a selfie at its famous Big Prawn. Get a taste of Ballina’s emerging culinary scene at Lola Dining, a contemporary fine dining restaurant awarded its first hat in the Good Food Guide Awards 2023. Or embrace Ballina’s laidback vibe over Japanese share plates and signature cocktails at casual-cool diner Hey Lady, just around the corner on River Street. Also new to River Street is Kelp, a seafood-focused family restaurant from the team at next-door Dory’s Takeaway, and Moroccan-meets-Japanese restaurant Layla, which operates from Cafe Boker during the evenings. Bon appetit!
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.
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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.