Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen MountainCredit: Destination NSW
Woman relaxing in the bath with views at Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen Mountain.
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Feel refreshed and inspired after an immersion in the life-affirming landscapes of New South Wales. Whether you crave crisp mountain air, starry night skies or the long-lasting calm following an ocean dip, here are 12 experiences across the state that will reconnect you with nature and make you feel new again.
Be moved by sacred places
Feel Aboriginal cultures pulsing through the land as you explore the state. Understand how the distinctive landscapes of the South Coast have shaped the traditions of local Yuin people as you walk the sacred Bingi Dreaming Track in Eurobodalla National Park or climb Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) in Tilba with a Yuin cultural guide. Embrace the spiritual experience of touring the expansive rock art galleries of the Mutawintji Historic Site near Broken Hill in Outback NSW, and be amazed by the many uses for native plants on an Aboriginal walking tour in Byron Bay on the Far North Coast.
Bond with iconic wildlife
Find joy in connecting with wildlife in energising new ways as you swim with wild whales in Jervis Bay and playful seals around Montague Island on the South Coast, or with dolphins in Port Stephens, north of Sydney. Coo over koalas at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, or get a buzz spotting the furry icons in Gunnedah and Narrandera, with both of these Country NSW towns known for their wild koala populations.
Be charmed by farm life
Get off the grid and experience next-level satisfaction as you learn new skills during an enriching stay at a working farm, such as Callubri Station in the heart of Outback NSW. Treat the kids to an unforgettable Hawkesbury farm stay close to Sydney, where little ones can get a kick out of collecting fresh eggs at the likes of Bilpin Country Lodge. Or revel in Italian country style on a stay at Rosedale Farm outside Orange, northwest of Sydney, where an exotic menagerie of farm animals, including a camel and two ostriches, roam the luxuriously restored historic property.
Find inner calm in the night sky
Find peace in being part of something bigger while gazing at the dazzling night skies of New South Wales. Feel uplifted by the celestial magnificence of Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, a six-hour drive northwest of Sydney in Warrumbungle National Park, or get a thrill peering deeper into space at observatories at Campbelltown in Western Sydney and in Parkes in the state’s Central West.
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.
Dark Sky Park, Warrumbungle National Park Credit: Destination NSW
The night sky filled with bright stars over the dark sky park in the Warrumbungles.
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Dark Sky Park, Warrumbungle National Park Credit: Destination NSW
The night sky filled with bright stars over the dark sky park in the Warrumbungles.
Feel new in the big blue
Sprout fresh green shoots in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, where you can renew your sense of adventure with canyoning, climbing and bushwalking galore. Recharge in UNESCO World Heritage-listed serenity — and luxury — at the likes of Spicers Sangoma Retreat and Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, and heal yourself in the only Japanese-style onsen (hot spring) in New South Wales.
Get a natural high
Breathe in the crisp mountain air on an invigorating walk to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko to savour a new feeling of accomplishment as you stand on the roof of Australia. Feel the magic in the air as the earth awakens below you during a sunrise yoga session in the nearby Snowy Mountains hub of Thredbo, then set your adventurous spirit free on a winter ski trip.
Embrace the freedom of slipping off the grid
Switch off and reconnect on an off-grid stay immersed in nature. Be among the first guests to experience Sugar Rock Ranch, a recently launched cosy hand-built cabin on the Far South Coast where you can enjoy long walks in the next-door Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park). Or gather your family to make new memories at Mirumiru Bubble Tent, where a family-friendly bubble tent campsite outside of Tenterfield in the New England high country features a treehouse tent kids will adore.
Relax with a different kind of streaming
Be revitalised by the rivers lacing the diverse landscapes of New South Wales. Heading south from Sydney, soak up the benefits of forest bathing alongside the calm Minnamurra River near Kiama, feel your muscles work as you paddle a kayak on the Kangaroo River in the Kangaroo Valley, and feel buoyed by the natural beauty of the Wombeyan Caves on the banks of the Wollondilly River near Goulburn. Or follow the curves of the Murray River on the Mighty Murray River Drive, enriched by pioneer and Aboriginal history, fine food and classic Country NSW hospitality along the way.
Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Credit: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley
Guests watching the wildlife at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley.
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Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Credit: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley
Guests watching the wildlife at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley.
Kayaking, Minnamurra Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a paddle on Minnamurra River, Minnamurra south of Kiama.
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Kayaking, Minnamurra Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a paddle on Minnamurra River, Minnamurra south of Kiama.
Find bush solitude in the city
Reconnect with nature without leaving Sydney in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, where sun-dappled bush trails guide you to ancient Aboriginal rock art. Deepen your knowledge of this magical slice of urban wilderness on a mindful guided walk with Trip Slow, or take a hike in Lane Cove National Park to feel instantly energised. Select your favourite paddlecraft for a fun day exploring Lake Parramatta Reserve, or pack a picnic to savour on the leafy shores of Manly Dam on the Northern Beaches.
Be awed by dramatic landscapes
Embrace the sense of wonder as you explore the surreal moonscapes of Mungo National Park in Outback NSW, and feel the power Fitzroy Falls plunging 81 metres off a dramatic Southern Highlands escarpment into the verdant valley below. Appreciate the otherworldly beauty and resilience of Gondwana Rainforests dating back millions of years, and feel your heart beat faster as you trace the soaring sandstone cliffs of the Royal National Park south of Sydney.
Rejuvenate with an unforgettable swim
Feel your worries float away in more than 100 idyllic ocean pools along the New South Wales coast, including Bondi Icebergs, below the freshly renovated Icebergs Dining Room and Bar at Bondi Beach. Or enjoy a revitalising soak in Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool, surrounded by bushland in the Blue Mountains. Harness the healing properties of the tea-tree infused waters of Lake Ainwsorth at Lennox Head on the North Coast, and cool off under waterfalls at the likes of Nellies Glen, a serene bushland swimming hole with a picturesque waterfall in Budderoo National Park on the South Coast.
Sync to nature’s soundtrack
Be calmed by the sounds of nature as your e-bike does the whisper-quiet legwork, with recently launched e-bike tours including an off-the-beaten-track wine tour with Canberra Wine Region E-Bike Tours in Murrumbateman and two self-guided tours in the lush Byron Bay hinterland offered by Beyond Byron E Bikes. Or hire an electric vehicle for a peaceful, eco-friendly road trip. Be serenaded by native birds on the Far North Coast’s lush Rainforest Way, and admire the ever-changing landscapes on the Waterfall Way as you cruise silently past cascading Mid North Coast waterfalls en route to the dramatic Northern Tablelands.
Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Tyson Mayr
Man watching the sunset at the Walls of China in Mungo National Park, Mungo.
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Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Tyson Mayr
Man watching the sunset at the Walls of China in Mungo National Park, Mungo.
Bondi Icebergs, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Woman out for a morning swim at Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach.
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Bondi Icebergs, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Woman out for a morning swim at Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach.
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.