Crown Towers, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Couple dining at Oncore by Clare Smyth overlooking expansive views of Sydney Harbour from Crown Towers.
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Get ready for an endless summer of inspiration, adventure and exploration in Sydney and NSW. Paddle a tranquil river, follow a country art trail, pick juicy cherries, eat ocean-fresh oysters and cheer on the Aussies at cricket. This is the time to make memories under the summer sun.
See Sydney from a new perspective
There’s always something new to discover in the Harbour City, even if you’re a frequent visitor. In Barangaroo, take a dip at Marrinawi Cove then refuel at one of the 11 restaurants and bars inside Crown Sydney. Head to level 26 for the three-hatted Oncore by Clare Smyth, where the new tasting menu pairs bite-sized portions of her signature dishes with epic views of the city. In Surry Hills, sip a glass of NSW wine while surrounded by inspirational artworks at The Art Syndicate, a new small bar-gallery hybrid. Or get a new perspective on an old favourite with an immersive tour of the Sydney Opera House – choose from the Beyond the Stage Tour, the Architectural Tour or the Guided Digital Tour.
It's also set to be a blockbuster summer of cricket with four major games to be played between November and January. At the SCG you can catch the men’s T20 International against Pakistan, the NRMA Insurance Pink Test against India and the Women’s Ashes T20 against England. At North Sydney Oval, don’t miss the CommBank Women's Ashes ODI against England.
CommBank Men's Ashes ODI Credit: Cricket Australia
CommBank Men's Ashes ODI
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CommBank Men's Ashes ODI Credit: Cricket Australia
CommBank Men's Ashes ODI
Be inspired in Newcastle
Discover the artistic side of Newcastle, a two-hour drive north of Sydney. The city is a living gallery, with spectacular street art everywhere you turn. Follow the Newcastle Architecture Walk to admire the city in all its glory and see the contemporary exhibitions at jail-turned-gallery The Lock-Up. Uncover the secrets of the city with Newy Tour Co, where a local guide will show you the highlights as well as their favourite places to eat, drink and be entertained. Then watch the sun set from Rooftop at QT, the city’s highest open-air bar with 180-degree views over the Newcastle skyline.
Time your visit with the Olive Tree Market, which transforms Civic Park with over 130 artists, designers and makers showcasing their unique wares, or enjoy two days of huge performances on the waterfront at Portside Festival on 21 or 22 December.
Newcastle Beach, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of young people playing a ball game along the water at Newcastle Beach
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Newcastle Beach, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of young people playing a ball game along the water at Newcastle Beach
Dive deeper into the far South Coast
Scratch beneath the surface of Eurobodalla and the Sapphire Coast, six hours’ drive south of Sydney, with an outdoor experience that will teach you about the region’s cultural history. Immerse yourself in the sacred Dreaming stories of Yuin Country on a retreat with Aboriginal-owned tour company Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness. Or follow the Bundian Way Story Trail from Cocora Beach to Quarantine Bay, where interpretive signs will introduce you to ancient legends.
Summer brings with it incredible oysters along this part of the coast. Follow the Sapphire Coast Oyster Trail to meet passionate growers, learn how to shuck and taste morsels plucked straight from the water. Discover more watery wonders with Navigate Expeditions, an eco-certified tour operator leading kayak tours across the jewel-like ocean and river. Or get back to nature in luxury in a glamping tent upriver at Currajong Retreat in Burragate.
Currajong Retreat, Burragate Credit: Destination NSW
Currajong Retreat offers a complete off-grid hideaway, the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.
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Currajong Retreat, Burragate Credit: Destination NSW
Currajong Retreat offers a complete off-grid hideaway, the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.
Seek out what’s new in the Southern Highlands
Luxury lovers have two new places to stay in the Southern Highlands. Moss Manor has transformed an elegant Georgian manor into an eight-room art hotel. Or check in to the grand Osborn House to relax by the swimming pool (spritz in hand) during those sultry summer afternoons. If you can tear yourself away from the indulgent accommodations, taste boutique spirits at SoHi or sip crafted cocktails at Flour Bar.
For something more rugged, Valley Outdoors runs guided canoeing, hiking, abseiling and camping tours through the spectacular Kangaroo Valley. Or learn about the fascinating history of the village of Berrima on a guided walking tour.
Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the cabins at Osborn House.
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Osborn House, Bundanoon Credit: Stephanie Hunter
One of the cabins at Osborn House.
Off the beaten path in the North Coast hinterland
A summer holiday isn’t just about lazy beach days. Head inland on the North Coast to discover rivers, lakes, natural pools and waterfalls. Just two hours north of Sydney, the Barrington Coast region offers outdoor adventures aplenty. Try river sledding on inflatable rafts down the Barrington River, hike through rainforest to swim at Gloucester Falls or fish for trout in a mountain stream. Further north, paddle along the scenic Bellingen River with Bellingen Canoe Adventures or tackle the rapids of the Nymboida River on the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail, the longest whitewater trail in Australia.
Pitch a tent in the rainforest at tranquil sites like the Iron Pot Creek Campground in Toonumbar National Park. If you prefer creature comforts, Reflections Holiday Parks are dotted all along the coast (at Evans Head, Ballina, Seal Rocks, Byron Bay and more) offering glamping, stylish cabins, swimming pools and fun parks for the kids.
Pick your playtime on the Murray River
A six-hour drive or one-hour flight southwest from Sydney, The Murray region has something for every visitor. Cruise the river as the pioneers did on a traditional paddlesteamer or spend a few days exploring at a relaxed pace on a houseboat from Moama on Murray. No boat licence is required and you can drop anchor wherever you like for swimming, fishing or a game of beach cricket. On land, hire an e-bike to cycle the main trails and paths that run alongside the river – the 43km Corowa Mulwala Cycle Trail is a favourite with families.
To see this legendary waterway from a new perspective, board a small plane with Murray Darling Scenic Flights. You’ll fly over the river and wetlands, marvelling at the ever-changing landscapes and patchwork of colours below.
Murray River Paddle Steamers, Echuca Credit: Destination NSW
A paddle steamer makes its way along the Murray River, Echuha
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Murray River Paddle Steamers, Echuca Credit: Destination NSW
A paddle steamer makes its way along the Murray River, Echuha
Taste the best of the Riverina
See why this fertile region, a five-hour drive southwest from Sydney, is known as Australia’s food bowl. Pick your own strawberries at Bidgee Strawberries and Cream in Wagga Wagga and taste the difference of just-plucked fruit. Try the wine, beer and cider made on the estate at Borambola Wines in Gundagai, experience a piece of Griffith’s Italian heritage at De Bortoli Wines Bilbul Estate, and sample Australian-made whisky at the cellar door at Whitton Malt House in Whitton.
Get a taste of the local art scene along the Riverina Outdoor Art Trail, taking in dramatic silo murals, laneway art and scenic country vistas. Or switch off your phones and take a family retreat to a classic farmstay, where you can feed the animals, ride horses and wake with the roosters. A perfect opportunity to feel connected again.
Borambola Wines, Borambola Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views across Borambola Wines vineyard in Borambola.
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Borambola Wines, Borambola Credit: Destination NSW
Scenic views across Borambola Wines vineyard in Borambola.
Cool off in the country
Discover a galaxy far, far away under the night-time country sky in the Warrumbungle region, a five-hour drive northwest from Sydney. Camp in the Warrumbungle National Park and gaze in awe at the stars in Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. Learn more about astronomy at Siding Spring Observatory, which has the largest optical telescope in the country or join Donna the Astronomer for a guided tour through the night sky at Milroy Observatory. Afterwards, pick up supplies and explore the charming town of Coonabarabran before heading to Coolah Tops National Park, a two-hour drive to the southeast, for excellent bushwalking, mountain biking trails and hidden waterfall spots.
The trees and vines of Country NSW are bursting with fruit during the summer months. Pick your own cherries in the friendly towns of Young, Orange, Mudgee and Batlow or visit the Huntley Berry Farm to fill your buckets with fresh, sweet berries.
Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran Credit: Destination NSW
Kangaroo soaking up the morning sun at Warrumbungle National Park, near Coonabarabran.
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Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran Credit: Destination NSW
Kangaroo soaking up the morning sun at Warrumbungle National Park, near Coonabarabran.
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.