Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra, SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
A sunrise swim at Mahon Ocean Pool, Maroubra. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.
#feelnew #feelnsw
Travel has the power to stir up feelings you haven’t encountered in a long time. The sense of adventure as you hit the road, ready for anything. The joy of staying up late and dancing all night. The awe of reaching a mountain peak, the relief of rejuvenation as you dive into the deep blue or the freedom of exploring the great outdoors. You can find connection to new friends and old stories, and a sense of belonging that creates memories that never fade. What feelings are you looking to rediscover in NSW?
Feel the adventure begin
Are you craving something that makes your heart beat faster? Take a leap of faith on the state’s mountain peaks: slice through the snow on one of Thredbo’s powdery trails or abseil into the cool dark caves of the Blue Mountain’s Grand Canyon. Skim across the frothy blue waves of Freshwater Beach, taking on the surf for the first time or for just one ride of many. Hit the highways for a far-flung road trip to the outback, ready for nights out under the stars and treks through dusty landscapes. Chase waterfalls and underwater worlds, or experience the action of Sydney’s stages, from one of the best seats in the house.
Get your thrills here: Speed past dense bushland, up rocky hills and feel your adrenaline peak as you roll through deep valleys on one of Thredbo’s many epic mountain bike trails. Join a track tour with Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa’s expert MTB instructors; bikes are also available to hire for both guests and day visitors.
30-Second Feel Film – Adventure Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Adventure Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel the freedom to wander
Lose yourself in the moment on mountains laced with bush trails, glassy lakes and trickling riverbeds, or along NSW’s 2000km coastline, which offers a different experience every day. A paddle along the rainforest-lined creeks and estuaries that thread out of the Bellingen or Kalang Rivers offers a certain kind of peace and quiet, where there’s nothing to worry about but leaning back and enjoying the everchanging scenery. Over on the Snowy Mountains, summer days are just as freeing as the snow-covered ones, with lakes, rivers and open plains becoming the launching points for hikes, fishing trips and horseback rides. Or simply float the day away at one of Sydney’s crystalline beaches from Kurnell to Long Reef; from kayaking to snorkelling, the water offers something for everyone.
Let go of it all here: Among serene bushland near Huskisson, stylish glamping bubble tent The Dome Jervis Bay is the perfect base to go wild in the wild – glide on the region’s azure waters on a paddleboard, hike through scribbly gum forests, or snorkel with colourful fish in hidden coves.
30-Second Feel Film – Free Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Free Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel connected to stories new and old
Seek out long lost stories among the hallowed halls of Sydney’s Art Gallery of New South Wales, home to the relics of ancient artisans, paintings and photography from contemporary creators, and revered crafts from Indigenous makers. Immerse yourself in the oldest living culture in the world – meet First Nations guides on a Tribal Warrior tour and hear about their connection to country. Or embrace the history of the land interpreted in dance, as a Bangarra Dance Theatre performance at Sydney Opera House showcases a rich cultural tale that’s still unfolding.
Go on a culture trip here: Travel back in time to Mungo National Park’s Walls of China and tour this 40,000-year-old cultural site with an experienced National Parks Wildlife Service Aboriginal Discovery Guide. From the spectacular hues of Lake Mungo to the stunning geological ripples of Willandra Lakes, you’ll see history come to life.
30-Second Feel Film – Connection Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Connection Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel part of something
You’ll feel at home in Sydney, where the best days are spent coming together over a feast. Gather your nearest and dearest at a waterfront restaurant in Rose Bay or feel the strength of the city’s diversity at the Cabramatta Food Market. When you find your tribe, that’s when the fun really begins: fabulous drag shows full of glitter and epic lip-syncing battles at The Imperial in Erskineville; the skaters at the Bondi bowl, who show off their tricks to a stunning backdrop of the city’s most famous beach; or just you and your soulmate, watching the sun go down over Sydney Harbour.
Try the simple life here: Experience true Aussie country living on the 11,000-hectare Callubri Station, where days can be as slow or action-packed as you want them to be. Help shear the Merino sheep or crop the paddocks, or simply sit back with a cuppa and take in the incredible views of the Western Plains from luxe sky or river suites.
30-Second Feel Film –Belonging Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film –Belonging Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel completely refreshed
A fresh start begins with a holiday. Step out of the ordinary and let the busyness of life wash away as you watch the cascading water of Red Cedar Falls in Dorrigo, or soak up the serenity at a secret beach or mountain cave where it’s just you and your thoughts. Find a home away from home, in the rainforest or a vintage farm stay. Or simply jump into the crystal-clear water of one of Sydney’s ocean pools at dawn – the cool water on your skin and the sun warming your bones can feel like a brand new person.
Dive right in here: Oysters don’t get much fresher than those shucked before your eyes, except for the ones you’ll feast on at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours’ new immersive river-to-plate culinary experience. Dine on a fresh tray of Broken Bay oysters right in the water, with white tableclothed tables and the sparkling Hawkesbury River literally at your feet.
30-Second Feel Film – Rejuvenation Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Rejuvenation Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel your world open up
Travelling is full of jaw-dropping moments, when a landscape takes your breath away or a story changes your perspective. NSW is full of drama: from the otherworldly rock formations of Broken Hill to the iconic curves of the Sydney Opera House seen from above when scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge or from within when watching the powerful storytelling of a theatre performance. But sometimes the quiet moments are just as transformative: searching for shooting stars in outback skies; breathing in the eucalypt-fragranced air from the highest viewpoint in the Blue Mountains; or simply sitting in stillness, from Jindabyne to Jervis Bay, reveling in nature’s significance.
Take it all in here: Dewy grass underfoot, the smell of pine needles in the air, feel the excitement of a treasure hunt in the Blue Mountains – your prize, fresh pine mushrooms. This foraging expedition is part of glamorous new boutique hotel Kyah’s inaugural Autumn Wild Mushroom Trail, where you’ll finish with a stunning three-course feast.
30-Second Feel Film – Awe Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Awe Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
Feel an endless high
Joy comes in many forms in NSW. It’s in the eyes that go wide as a tropical fish swims by in the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. It’s in the squeals that come after every golden firework over Sydney Harbour. It’s in the laughter of a girls’ night out or a single tear that comes after a moving performance at the Sydney Opera House. You’ll find joy in playing in the waves or gliding through a quiet creek deep among the rainforest. And you’ll find it in the new characters you meet, or from simply being yourself with the ones you love.
Find endless smiles here: Join playtime with the seals of Narooma on a snorkelling tour with Montague Island Adventures. You’ll be right up close to these cheeky mammals as they dive for fish, twirl on the ocean floor and dance together in this nature reserve on the South Coast.
30-Second Feel Film – Joy Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
#feelnew #feelnsw
30-Second Feel Film – Joy Credit: Destination NSW
Welcome to NSW, a place to feel new again
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.
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
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.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.