Shutters Restaurant & BarCredit: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Shutters Restaurant & Bar at Intercontinental Sydney Coogee Beach.
ACCOMMODATION
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Coogee is set to evolve into a luxury beachfront enclave with the phased opening of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach kicking off just last year. Guests can expect elegant coastal rooms, serene wellness spaces along with a refined beachfront restaurant offering signature seafood dining. The hotel’s expanded leisure deck, day spa and elevated experiences will anchor Coogee as one of Sydney’s most compelling oceanfront destinations.
A contemporary new addition to Sydney’s south‑west, Novotel Sydney Cabramatta introduces modern accommodation at the increasingly vibrant and culturally rich precinct of Cabramatta, and bolsters the suburb's already impressive food and beverage offering with Magma by Dany Karam.
QT Parramatta
Western Sydney’s hotel scene continues to grow with QT Parramatta to look forward to in 2026, bringing the brand’s playful energy, design-driven interiors and signature hospitality to Parramatta’s rapidly evolving CBD.
The Southern Highlands welcomes the highly anticipated reopening of Ardour Milton Park in 2026. The historic estate begins a new chapter as a flagship regional luxury retreat, offering elevated accommodations, a reimagined bar and new signature dining concepts including Horderns Restaurant.
This beloved South Coast property enters a striking new phase as The Whale Inn is set to reopen early this year with refreshed spaces and a renewed culinary direction. And with expansive views over the Wagonga Inlet, the revitalised inn will position Narooma as a key destination for those seeking slow coastal travel.
Trentham Waters Resort, Mildura
Trentham Waters Resort ushers in a new Palm Spring inspired retreat offering architectural villas, outdoor leisure experiences and water-based adventure that adds a striking, contemporary edge to Mildura’s already charming sun-kissed town.
Construction has begun on the Serengeti Resort, the largest development in Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s history. Spanning 55 hectares, the resort will transform a previously unused area into a vast African-style savannah, including a central hub with a function centre, restaurant, and infinity pool, surrounded by accommodations offering views of free-roaming wildlife. The Serengeti Resort is scheduled to open in the second half of 2026.
Construction has also begun on the iconic Awaba House which is part of the Lake Macquarie Arts Precinct and next door to the Museum of Art and Culture, Yapang. Once complete, the $6 million build will boast an improved dining area with a modern kitchen and bar facilities. The revitalisation will also include construction of a dedicated space for weddings and events, featuring expansive outdoor terraces overlooking the lake. The project is expected to be completed in April/May 2026.
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach Credit: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Intercontinental Sydney Coogee Beach (rooms)
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach Credit: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach
Intercontinental Sydney Coogee Beach (rooms)
Novotel Sydney Cabramatta Credit: Novotel Sydney Cabramatta
Rooms at Novotel Sydney Cabramatta
Novotel Sydney Cabramatta Credit: Novotel Sydney Cabramatta
Rooms at Novotel Sydney Cabramatta
DINING
Rick Stein at Coogee Beach brings the renowned chef’s distinctive style, coastal produce and relaxed charm to one of the city’s most beloved beach suburbs. Launching recently in December 2025, the venue delivers simple and elegant seafood in an oceanfront setting, with highlight dishes from the menu including sashimi; fruits de mer; oysters Charentaise; Coffs Harbour king prawn cocktail, and more.
A late‑2025 arrival at Circular Quay, Flaminia sets the scene for a lively new chapter of Italian coastal dining to the stunning Sydney Harbour. Drawing inspiration from Italy’s great port cities, the restaurant brings a crudofirst approach and a contemporary interpretation of Italian dining for guests to enjoy.
Be enchanted by the vibrancy and traditions of Levantine cuisine from within the heritage-listed walls of a Sydney landmark at Aambra. The 140‑seat restaurant only just opened in November 2025, offering relaxed share‑style dining shaped by executive chef Gianluca Lonati and interiors reimagined by designer Paul Papadopoulos.
The Bentley Restaurant Group, led by acclaimed Australian hospitality duo Nick Hildebrandt and Brent Savage, has made a celebrated return to Barangaroo with the opening of Watermans, an Eastern Mediterranean–inspired restaurant helmed by esteemed chef Darryl Martin (formerly of Barzaari). Just metres from Sydney Harbour, Watermans offers sweeping waterfront views and a beautifully designed space ideal for leisurely long lunches and vibrant evening dining.
From Tapavino Group, Epula has landed in the historic GPO building led by Executive Chef Adam Bourke (ex-Nola Smokehouse, Busta, Sunset Sabi) and designed by Luchetti Krelle. The restaurant, which is named with the Roman Latin word for “feast”, draws inspiration from Europe’s varied and vibrant piazzas and cuisine.
Vitelli’s Upstairs, Wunderlich Lane
Opening 10 February, Vitelli’s Upstairs brings warm, familiar red sauce Italian cooking to the buzzy Wunderlich Lane precinct. The restaurant channels old New York energy, with a menu anchored by hand-rolled pasta prepared daily by the Grana team.
The Three Blue Ducks team expands further into regional NSW in early 2026 with a Burradoo venue shaped by farm-led cooking, seasonal produce and relaxed hospitality. Expect thoughtful menus that reflect local growers and the Southern Highlands stunning landscapes.
Within Bowral’s soon to relaunch Ardour Milton Park estate, Horderns Restaurant also returns with a new contemporary identity. The dining room is shaped by refined pan-European cooking and an elevated produce-driven approach, and will bolster a region already known for its impressive culinary line up.
A disruptive multi-venue dining destination that opened late December 2025 in the heart of Byron Bay. The precinct houses 4 distinct venues including Feu, The Bistro, Blind Tiger and The Kiosk, all of which combine for a dream like sensory experience that fuses textures, memories and a sense of place for the discerning traveller.
Terrigal Pavilion, Central Coast
The Central Coast welcomed a refreshed beachfront venue with Terrigal Pavilion in late 2025, offering modern coastal dining, open‑air seating and an elevated yet approachable atmosphere overlooking the water. There are three incredible venues under the one roof, including The General Store café, The Tropic and the Terrigal Pavllion itself.
Rick Stein restaurant at Coogee Beach Credit: Rick Stein at Coogee Beach
Occupying a stunning beachfront location, the 224 seat restaurant at the InterContinental Coogee Beach includes a signature restaurant, bar dining and courtyard terrace.
Rick Stein restaurant at Coogee Beach Credit: Rick Stein at Coogee Beach
Occupying a stunning beachfront location, the 224 seat restaurant at the InterContinental Coogee Beach includes a signature restaurant, bar dining and courtyard terrace.
Habour Views, Sydney Kayak Experience, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
The beauty of Sydney Harbour experienced with Sydney Kayak Experience.
Habour Views, Sydney Kayak Experience, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
The beauty of Sydney Harbour experienced with Sydney Kayak Experience.
EXPERIENCES
As the first NSW State Cultural Institution to be based in Western Sydney, Powerhouse Parramatta will be a transformational cultural precinct. It will be the largest museum in NSW with over 18,000 sqm of exhibition and public space, attracting 2 million visitors a year. Set to open in late 2026.
This new addition from Capella’s acclaimed portfolio, opening on the 2 February, is anticipated to elevate Sydney’s luxury event venue offering even further, blending worldclass hospitality with thoughtful design and immersive stays.
Soak Bath House took its contemporary wellness concept to Bondi late-December 2025, offering its beloved line up of communal bathing, modern rituals and restorative experiences to the Eastern Suburbs.
A modern wellness destination that opened late last year in Chatswood within the heritage-listed Seymour Building. It offers a serene environment for relaxation and self-care, featuring a 37°C mineral pool, infrared saunas, and steam rooms.
Opening in February, the multi-level Woodport Hotel introduces a new live music led venue to the Central Coast, combining performance spaces, dining and a vibrant atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
Bundanon: The Hidden Line – Art of the Boyd Women
Running until 15 February 2026, Bundanon’s summer exhibition explores the work and legacy of the Boyd women artists. The program showcases more than 300 diverse works and offers a look into the creative practices of five generations of women from one of Australia’s most prominent artistic dynasties.
Angry Bull Trails, Tenterfield
Tenterfield is set to become one of Australia’s most exciting year-round mountain biking destinations with the development of Angry Bull Trails. The extensive new trail network is designed to support all levels, including adaptive riders, and will cover more than 170 kilometres across two stages. Once completed, it will be the largest of its kind in the country.
Yayoi Kusama at the Western Plains Cultural Centre, Dubbo
Experience Yayoi Kusama's iconic pumpkins in Dubbo. This iconic installation ‘The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens 2017’ landed in the Western Plains Cultural Centre late last year and will be running until November 2027.
Eliva, NSW
A new chapter in Australian hotel wellness begins with the launch of Éliva, Salter Brothers Hospitality’s luxury day spa brand. Debuting across several notable hotels in 2026, including InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains and Ardour Milton Park Bowral, Éliva will introduce a distinctive, high-touch wellness experience shaped by tranquillity, craft and contemporary design to these already iconic accommodations.
Bundanon Art Museum, Illaroo Credit: Destination NSW
People participating in an art class experience at Bundanon Art Museum in Illaroo.
Bundanon Art Museum, Illaroo Credit: Destination NSW
People participating in an art class experience at Bundanon Art Museum in Illaroo.
More Inspirational Stories
Lagoon Beach, Lord Howe IslandCredit: tom-archer.com
Man stand up paddleboarding off Lagoon Beach with views across to Mount Lidgbird.
Start the new year with unforgettable adventures across New South Wales. From pristine islands and rugged national parks to world-class wine regions and cultural experiences, NSW offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re chasing natural wonders, indulging in gourmet delights, or uncovering rich heritage, these 10 bucket list experiences will inspire your 2026 travel plans.
1. Take a Guided Tour Through Mungo National Park
Step back in time at Mungo National Park, part of the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area in Outback NSW. Join a guided tour with Tri State Safaris or Outback Geo Adventures to explore ancient landscapes and learn about the cultural history of Lake Mungo. Marvel at the striking Walls of China sand dunes and learn about the significance of this area to local Aboriginal people.
2. Go Snorkelling on Lord Howe Island
Dive into paradise at Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem just a short flight from Sydney. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colourful fish and graceful sea turtles with Lorde Howe Environmental Tours, or spot one of the rare birds that call the island home. With crystal-clear waters and a limit of only 400 visitors at a time, this island offers an intimate, untouched experience for nature lovers, or those looking for the ultimate in relaxation.
3. Soar Above Mudgee’s Wine Country in a Hot Air Balloon
Float above rolling vineyards and patchwork farmland as the sun rises over Mudgee. A hot air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft offers a breathtaking perspective of this renowned wine region, known for its boutique wineries and country charm. After your flight, toast the experience with a glass of local sparkling and indulge in a long lunch among the vines, or check out one of the region’s top restaurants including Zin House, The Barn at Blue Wren Farm, Pipeclay Pumphouse and more.
4. Go Stargazing in Warrumbungle National Park
Escape city lights and gaze into the cosmos at Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first Dark Sky Park (an honour bestowed on only 13 places in the world). With crystal-clear skies and minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. Join an astronomy tour or simply lay back and marvel at the Milky Way stretching overhead. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, it’s a celestial experience like no other.
5. Pluck Oysters Fresh from the Water with Merimbula Oyster Tours
Taste the ocean’s finest on the Sapphire Coast with Merimbula Oyster Tours. Cruise the calm waters of Merimbula Lake and learn the secrets of oyster farming from local expert James Wheeler. Then, wade into the water and shuck your own oysters straight from the lease before enjoying a glass of sparkling to top off the experience. While you’re in town, sample more local seafood and produce at a range of restaurants, like Dulcie’s Cottage, housed in a 1925 weatherboard, and Bar Suprette, a locally run wine bar.
Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Destination NSW
Uncover a starkly beautiful landscape of ancient dry lake basins and sand formations in Mungo National Park. Home to Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, this area of NSW is rich with Aboriginal history and is of great significance to the local indigenous people.
Mungo National Park, Mungo Credit: Destination NSW
Uncover a starkly beautiful landscape of ancient dry lake basins and sand formations in Mungo National Park. Home to Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, this area of NSW is rich with Aboriginal history and is of great significance to the local indigenous people.
Merimbula Oyster Tours, Merimbula Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of oyster farms in Merimbula Lake during sunset.
Merimbula Oyster Tours, Merimbula Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of oyster farms in Merimbula Lake during sunset.
6. Sip Semillon in the Hunter Valley
Raise a glass in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region and home to world-class Semillon. Spend the day visiting some of the region’s many cellar doors including Krinklewood, Tyrrell’s and Audrey Wilkinson, sampling crisp whites and bold reds, and pairing them with gourmet local produce. Afterwards, saddle up to explore the valley on horseback with Hunter Valley Horse Riding, see the region from above with Hunter Valley Helicopters, or put your feet up at a luxury retreat.
7. Hike Australia’s Tallest Peak in the Snowy Mountains
Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. The 18.6-kilometre return walk from Charlotte Pass offers sweeping alpine views, wildflowers in summer, and a sense of achievement at the top. Before you explore the fabulous walking tracks in the Snowy Mountains, read these bushwalking safety tips and follow the advice from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
8. Learn About Sydney’s Indigenous History on a Burrawa BridgeClimb
See Sydney from a new perspective with Burrawa BridgeClimb, a unique experience that shares the stories of the Gadigal people while you ascend the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Hear about the harbour’s cultural significance, learn traditional language, and take in panoramic views of the city. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Sydney’s rich Aboriginal heritage.
9. Go Dolphin Spotting in Jervis Bay
Crystal-clear waters and resident pods of playful dolphins make Jervis Bay a must-visit. Join a dolphin-watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild and glide across turquoise seas, keeping an eye out for these graceful creatures along with the seals, penguins, seabirds that call Jervis Bay Marine Park home. With white-sand beaches and calm waters, Jervis Bay is also perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the shore.
10. See the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains
Part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the Three Sisters is an iconic formation that you must see at least once in your lifetime. Gaze at these towering sandstone formations from Echo Point Lookout, then explore the surrounding trails for breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley. Or, for a different point of view head to Scenic World to see the Three Sisters from the Scenic Skyway.
BridgeClimb, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying the Burrawa Indigenous Experience at BridgeClimb, Sydney.
BridgeClimb, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying the Burrawa Indigenous Experience at BridgeClimb, Sydney.
Anderson's Tours, Echo Point Credit: Destination NSW
Anderson's Tours offers a small group touring experience to the Blue Mountains including Echo Point Lookout.
Anderson's Tours, Echo Point Credit: Destination NSW
Anderson's Tours offers a small group touring experience to the Blue Mountains including Echo Point Lookout.