Bondi to Manly Walk, Bondi BeachCredit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk along Bondi Beach, Sydney.
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A weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is a welcome break you need every now and again. New South Wales offers plenty of options for a quick trip away centred around natural wonders, with beaches, bushland and bountiful experiences ready to enjoy. Here are a few places to consider for your next weekend escape.
Sydney
There’s plenty to see and do in the state’s largest city. Start with a 30-minute walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge from the city centre and enjoy sweeping views of the harbour and the Sydney Opera House. Catch the train back to Circular Quay, then hop on the ferry for an afternoon at Taronga Zoo — you can stay overnight at the zoo’s Wildlife Retreat or have a Roar and Snore experience.
Make the most of the sunshine and tackle a section of the four-day Bondi to Manly Walk, an 80km track of iconic beaches, ocean pools and secluded picnic spots from Bondi in the Eastern Suburbs through the city and on to the southern end of the Northern Beaches.
Looking for a bite to eat in the city? Popular Bondi Italian eatery Totti’s has a sister venue in the city centre, Bar Totti’s, which serves up amazing house-made antipasti. For more Italian fare, head to Restaurant Leo or Ragazzi, which have revitalised the nearby Angel Place. And if you’re looking for bars, find a seat at Cantina OK! or PS40, or Maybe Sammy in The Rocks.
Stay at the minimalist Little National Hotel Sydney in the city for easy access to the Barangaroo dining precinct; or soak up harbour views from your room at Pier One Sydney Harbour - a stone's throw away from Circular Quay.
Taronga Zoo, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Curious giraffes peering over their enclosure at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
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Taronga Zoo, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Curious giraffes peering over their enclosure at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
The Shoalhaven
The Shoalhaven region of the South Coast, around a three-hour drive south of Sydney, shines with 170km of pristine coastline. There are many beaches to choose from – you can swim at the calm Callala Beach or Scottish Rocks, or camp at Green Patch. Book a tour with Dolphin Watch Cruises, or a whale-watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild for the ultimate Jervis Bay experience during whale migration season (May to November).
At Stonegrill steakhouse in the bustling coastal town of Huskisson, you cook meat or seafood on a heated volcanic stone yourself. Explore the region’s increasingly sophisticated wine offerings at Two Figs Winery, or have lunch at Cupitt’s Estate, a destination in itself only minutes away from the South Coast towns of Milton, Mollymook and Ulladulla.
Stay on the coast at Bangalay Luxury Villas, on the beach at Shoalhaven Heads, or book an escape for the whole family at The Shore at Gerringong, The Pause, The Shed Gerroa or Beach House Gerroa, at the other end of Seven Mile Beach from Bangalay Luxury Villas. And Kangaroo Valley Getaways can match you with your ideal holiday home in the lush Shoalhaven hinterland.
Whale Watching, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins
Humpback whale breaching off Jervis Bay on the south coast of NSW.
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Whale Watching, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins
Humpback whale breaching off Jervis Bay on the south coast of NSW.
Blue Mountains
A 90-minute drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains is home to incredible outdoor activities and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. Soak up breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley with a Scenic World experience, from the world's steepest passenger railway, to the recently launched Beyond Skyway experience. Go canyoning, abseiling and rock-climbing via High and Wild Australian Adventures and Blue Mountains Adventure Company.
Head to Red Door Café in Leura for breakfast, or enjoy afternoon tea at Megalong Valley Tea Rooms. Once you're finished exploring one of the region's many walking tracks, head to Bilpin at the foot of the mountains for refreshments at Hillbilly Cider and Bilpin Cider, or get your hands dirty picking fruit at Bilpin Fruit Bowl.
Sip pre-dinner drinks at Champagne Charlie’s at The Carrington in Katoomba, then enjoy dinner with a view at Echoes Restaurant & Bar, or Bar NSW at the Lookout. For self-contained accommodation just five minutes from town, The Kyah is a Palm-Springs inspired converted motel in Blackheath.
Three Sisters, Blue Mountains Credit: Filippo Rivetti
Sunrise over the Three Sisters and Mount Solitary in the Blue Mountains National Park, Katoomba.
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Three Sisters, Blue Mountains Credit: Filippo Rivetti
Sunrise over the Three Sisters and Mount Solitary in the Blue Mountains National Park, Katoomba.
Mid North Coast
Go on a jet ski experience, river cruise or dolphin spotting on the pristine waterways of Port Macquarie, a four-hour drive north of Sydney, with Port Jet Cruise Adventures. A camel safari along Lighthouse Beach with Port Macquarie Camels may be more your speed, or you can get up close to a koala at Billabong Zoo.
For lunch, head to The Hilltop Store in Sawtell, a 90-minute drive north of Port Macquarie. Another nearby lunch option is the refurbished The Kiosk Sawtell.
Fresh oysters are shucked to order at Hamiltons Oysters in Tuncurry, an hour south of Port Macquarie. And off the Pacific Highway in Wauchope is Bago Maze and Wine, where the vineyard, cellar door and a hedge maze are surrounded by eucalypts.
Just a short drive from Port Macquarie, Telegraph Retreat Cottages cater to couples and families. And inland from the coast, The Lodge in the laid-back town of Bellingen is a 16 acre property with 30 rooms with views over the Bellinger Valley towards Dorrigo National Park.
Bago Maze and Winery, Wauchope Credit: Destination NSW
The architecturally designed native Lilly Pilly hedge maze at Bago Maze and Winery, Wauchope.
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Bago Maze and Winery, Wauchope Credit: Destination NSW
The architecturally designed native Lilly Pilly hedge maze at Bago Maze and Winery, Wauchope.
Country NSW
For a taste of the good life, you can’t beat Orange, a 3.5-hour drive west of Sydney. At Ferment, a slick wine centre showcasing 19 wineries in the region, you’ll get a well-rounded introduction to the local wine scene.
While you’re in town, hop into Jumbled store to browse its interesting edit of homewares, fashion and art. Then head to Byng Street Local Store for brunch. For a sophisticated dining experience, make a reservation at Printhie Wines Cellar Door. Stay at The Oriana, which has rooms to suit couples and families alike. There’s the farmers market on every second Saturday, and just 15 minutes from Orange is the family-friendly Heifer Station Wines and its petting zoo.
Three hours south of Sydney, between Canberra and the South Coast beaches, you’ll find the country town of Braidwood. Don’t miss Braidwood Bakery and its excellent pies and pastries, and find treats for the drive back at The Boiled Lolly. Stop off at the Braidwood Farmers Market for regional produce if you’re visiting on the second or fourth Saturday of the month. Extend your stay at Mona Farm, a restored homestead with luxe self-contained accommodation outside of Braidwood.
In the heart of the Riverina, named for the mighty Murray River that flows through the region, you’ll find the town of Wagga Wagga. Start your weekend early on Thursday at the Riverina Producers' Market at Wagga Showgrounds. For dinner that celebrates local produce, dine at The Roundabout Restaurant or The Oakroom. Set up base at The Houston, a boutique hotel created within the grand neo-gothic Belmore House.
Heifer Station, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Group of friends enjoying a private food and wine tasting experience at Heifer Staton Wines, Orange.
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Heifer Station, Orange Credit: Destination NSW
Group of friends enjoying a private food and wine tasting experience at Heifer Staton Wines, Orange.
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.
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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.