Murrays Beach, Jervis BayCredit: Destination NSW
Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, NSW
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Whether you’re basking in the heat of summer or rugged up against a brisk breeze, you’ll find a long string of spectacular beaches to enjoy on the South Coast of New South Wales. Take deep breaths of salty ocean air as you explore white sandy beaches and rugged coastal national parks, and feast on fresh seafood from just-caught fish to world-class oysters.
Discover a seemingly endless beach in the Shoalhaven
Surrender to the sound of waves crashing on an untouched shore as you stroll along Seven Mile Beach, a 12-kilometre long stretch of sand between the town of Gerroa and Shoalhaven Heads around two hours south of Sydney. Pack a picnic for a leisurely beachside lunch, and spot honeyeaters and thornbills as you hike through Seven Mile Beach National Park’s forests of blackbutts and bangalay trees. Recreate family holidays of yesteryear at Gerroa’s Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park, nestled between the beach and Crooked River. Float in the holiday park’s resort-style pool and sit around the fire pit admiring the spectacular stars after canoeing or fishing the river. Thrill to the sight of dolphins and whales (between May and November) on Gerroa’s headland. And relish a plate of fish tacos or tuna ceviche at The Blue Swimmer, a light-filled café/restaurant overlooking the mouth of Crooked River.
Swim in the protected waters of Jervis Bay
Feel spoilt for choice when you discover Jervis Bay, a sheltered inlet lined with a string of beautiful beaches three hours’ drive south of Sydney. Venture into Booderee National Park, at the southern end of the bay, to share the crystalline waters and reefs of Murrays Beach with turtles, families of squid and inquisitive bright blue gropers. Refresh with a swim before learning about local plants, animals, culture and history as you walk the Munyunga Waraga Dhugan loop from Murrays Beach. Then head to Huskisson, the main town on Jervis Bay, to savour delicious local seafood at Huskisson Hotel. Linger at this popular hotel to take in breathtaking views over the bay, or settle into a seat at Flamin Galah Brewing Co’s beer garden and relax with a craft brew.
Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoy a walk along Murrays Beach at Jervis Bay, NSW
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Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoy a walk along Murrays Beach at Jervis Bay, NSW
North Durras, Murramarang National Park Credit: Josh Burkinshaw
Woman swimming in the water at North Durras, Murramarang National Park
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North Durras, Murramarang National Park Credit: Josh Burkinshaw
Woman swimming in the water at North Durras, Murramarang National Park
Share the beach with kangaroos near Batemans Bay
Thrill to the sight of eastern grey kangaroos sedately grazing in the dunes of Depot Beach, a magical spot surrounded by littoral rainforest in Murramarang National Park, around a four-hour drive south of Sydney. Make the most of this natural playground, beloved by families for its crystal-clear water, abundant native wildlife and many rockpools, by staying at the superbly placed campsite just across from the beach. Or start your day in comfort at The Isla, a design-led boutique hotel that’s around a 25-minute drive away in Batemans Bay. Splurge on the Isla’s two-bedroom, two-bathroom Grande Suite to enjoy a private plunge pool, an outdoor courtyard with ocean views and chic décor, including oak furnishings and terrazzo features.
Say hello to seals at Narooma
Snorkelling with the Australian fur seals of Montague Island, a short boat ride from the town of Narooma, is an unforgettable thrill. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can also spot these playful creatures from shoreline of Narooma, around a five-hour drive from Sydney. Revel in the placid waters of Narooma Bar Beach South, a naturally enclosed stretch of sand protected by a breakwall that fur seals love to bask on. Then feel the wind rushing through your hair as the water twinkles beside you when you pedal along the Narooma to Dalmeny cycle route. Top off a memorable day with fruity daiquiris and fresh oysters served by the water at the iconic tiki-style Quarterdeck waterfront restaurant, or feast on pub classics at the restored heritage Lynch’s Narooma. Then wind down at a luxury cabin at the beachfront Surf Beach Holiday Park or a stylish room at the Whale Inn boutique hotel.
Montague Island, Narooma Credit: Destination NSW
Snorkilng with seals as part of the Montague Island Discovery Tours experience
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Montague Island, Narooma Credit: Destination NSW
Snorkilng with seals as part of the Montague Island Discovery Tours experience
Short Point Beach, Merimbula Credit: Dee Kramer Photography
Sunset at Short Point Beach, Merimbula.
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Short Point Beach, Merimbula Credit: Dee Kramer Photography
Sunset at Short Point Beach, Merimbula.
Find a hidden gem on the Sapphire Coast
Take yourself out of the ordinary by discovering a secluded river beach surrounded by dense bushland in Beowa National Park, between Merimbula and Eden on the Sapphire Coast. Turn off the Princes Highway south of Merimbula for a scenic drive through vibrant greenery, and walk 300 metres from the car park to dig your toes into the soft white sands of Severs Beach. You’ll be transported back in time as you take in the masses of trees surrounding Pambula River and encounter shell middens left by Aboriginal communities up to 3,500 years ago. Float in the river, try your hand at fishing (best between December and May), or look out for a sea eagle diving for its catch. At the end of an another idyllic day, soak up the ocean views at Hillcrest Motel, a refurbished 1970s-style motel high on a hill above Merimbula.
To discover more of New South Wales’ beautiful beaches and coastline, head to sydney.com and visitnsw.com. Share your Feel New moments with #FeelNSW and #FeelNewSydney
Notes to editors:
Whale Inn, Narooma is closed for renovations through Australian winter 2024.
Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa/Shoalhaven Heads Credit: Destination NSW
Surfers 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
Surfers catching waves at Seven Mile Beach which stretches from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads.
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.