nsw road trip map

The 6 BEST NSW Road Trips – Epic Drive Itineraries [2024 Edition]

Last Updated: February 5, 2024

If you’re looking for some incredible NSW road trips that will take you from the coast into the mountains, we’ve put together the 6 best drives to add to your list!

Road tripping in New South Wales is a must for the intrepid traveller who wants to experience everything Australia has to offer.

From beaches, national parks and forests there are no shortage of things to see or do, particularly along the coast.

The following are some of the best road trips in NSW that won’t disappoint. Here is our list of 6 road trips in New South Wales that you have to do.

Table of Contents

Greater Blue Mountains Drive

Grand pacific drive, kosciuszko alpine way, mighty murray river drive, darling river run, waterfall way road trip, the 6 best nsw road trips for 2022.

Check out the table above for a sneak peek overview of the best NSW road trips and be sure to read through all the details below!

Route – Sydney, Katoomba, Lithgow, Mt Tomah, Bilpin, Hawkesbury
Distance – 220km
Duration – 2 – 4 days
Vehicle – Any vehicle is suitable
Road Conditions – All roads are sealed
Highlights – The Three Sisters, Scenic World (walkway, skyway, cableway and railway), Govetts Leap Lookout, Wentworth Falls, Lot of Hiking and Heritage Trails, the towns of Katoomba and Leura

You can explore the rugged wilderness of Australia’s iconic Blue Mountains on a four-day road trip.

This circuit will take you from the Lower to the Upper Blue Mountains and then around the Hawkesbury River with its orchards and gardens on your way back up again.

You can spend days exploring the wilderness of Katoomba , but don’t overlook the various towns along the drive.

The Echo Point Visitor Information Centre offers maps and information for your adventure while paying tribute to Sydney’s iconic Three Sisters at Jamison Valley .

The Blue Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, with trails winding through forests of eucalyptus and wattle trees.

After taking in the views from Victoria Pass, make your first stop at Hassan’s Walls for incredible vistas to Hartley Valley below or head straight down into Jenolan Caves – one of Australia’s top attractions!

Dating back 340 million years, these caves were once an important location for Gundungurra people as well as being popular among locals today.

Take Mount Victoria Road, heading left until you reach Bells Line of Road which will lead through Bilpin and then down into the Hawkesbury region where there are many stunning sights waiting for travellers who want to exploring more gorgeous scenery.

If beautiful natural beauty is on your mind while driving, don’t forget that the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah features over 6 thousand plant species as well as 244 hectares (600 acres)of wild vegetation. It’s the highest botanical garden in Australia!

The Hawkesbury River is the northern-western boundary for Sydney and offers an impressive watery wonderland with historic towns lining its shores.

Route – Sydney, Royal National Park, Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and the Shoalhaven
Distance – 140km
Duration – 2 – 3 days
Vehicle – Any Vehicle
Highlights – Bald Hill Lookout & Sea Cliff Bridge, Austinmer Beach, Wollongong’s Foreshore, Nan Tien Temple, Shellharbour Village and Killalea State Park, Kiama Blowhole, Hymes Beach

The Grand Pacific Drive is a scenic drive in Australia that starts at the Royal National Park, crosses over the Sea Cliff Bridge and continues through Wollongong to Kiama .

Along this route, there are many jaw-dropping sights including Scarborough Beach , which displays one of New South Wales’s most famous beaches with its white sand and surf.

The drive starts in Sydney and continues to Nowra, about 140 kilometres (or around two hours driving) away along the beautiful beaches and cliffs overlooking Australia’s dramatic coastline.

Alongside stunning views from rainforests and rugged coastlines, travellers will be able to relax at any number of quaint towns situated alongside this iconic road trip through natural wonders- perfect for those seeking an authentic Australian experience!

READ MORE: Check out all the top Royal National Park walks you should tackle on the way.

The route along the Grand Pacific Drive starts at Sydney’s Phillip Bay in a suburb called Queenscliff, where road trippers will be able to see the famous Pylon Lookout and climb the nearby Bald Hill for more incredible views.

From here, you can head through Narooma and Bermagui before arriving at Culburra Beach on the coast of New South Wales.

Sydney to Wollongong – 85 km
Wollongong to Shellharbour – 21km
Shellharbour to Kiama – 15 km
Kiama to Shoalhaven (check out Jervis Bay while you’re there) – 72 km

Route – Cooma, Jindabyne to Khancoban
Distance – 170km one way
Duration – About 3 days
Vehicle – Any type of vehicle but no large caravans as the road is very windy.
Road Conditions – The road is sealed the whole way
Highlights – Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, Mount Gladstone Lookout, Mountain Biking at Thedbo or around Lake Jindabyne, whitewater rafting expedition on the Snowy River, Wildbrumby Distillery, Kosciuszko Brewing Company, hikes in Kosciuszko National Park.

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way is one of the most iconic road trips in Australia. Located on the border of New South Wales and Victoria, you will experience a scenic drive with stunning views and beautiful landscapes.

The road follows the mountain up and down through the amazing Snowy Mountains which is the highest section of the Great Dividing Range.

There are many spots to stop for walks in the national parks and even mountain biking if you are keen.

You can go either way on the Kosciuszko Alpine Way. When we did the road trip, we went from Jindabyne and Khancoban as we were heading in this direction.

We started at Cooma and explored the beautiful historical town, which is a great place to stop for some coffee or food.

There are some short hikes near the town and the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre .

There are many activities you can do on the Snowy River, like trout fishing, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

After exploring Cooma, head to the Mount Gladstone Lookout just out of Cooma for a great view.

Coming into Jindabyne is a sight to see. As you roll over the hill you are greeted with the beautiful view of Lake Jindabyne with little hills around the lake and big mountains in the background. It is stunning.

Stay here and explore the area in and around the town of Jindabyne . There are so many activities to do on Lake Jindabyne and up in the mountains at Thredbo with hiking and mountain biking.

READ MORE: See what makes the cut on our list of the best Queensland road trips !

If you are here in December there is a rodeo celebrating the Man from Snowy River. And if you have mountain bikes with you, head up to Thredbo Resort through the Thredbo Valley and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping tracks.

You can hire bikes from in town or at the resort if you need them. There are great tracks also around Lake Jindabyne for the whole family.

Jindabyne is a great place to base yourself for the Kosciuszko National Park. There are a number of hikes in the area, do some mountain biking, go on a horse ride, go fishing or go kayaking.

Kosciuszko National Park is an all year round adventure paradise. You can explore the number of hikes in the area, do some mountain biking, go on a horse ride, go fishing or go kayaking.

After Jindabyne, you will head back out on the Alpine Way where it links the towns of Jindabyne and Khancoban over a mountain pass. You will follow one of Australia’s highest windiest roads.

This section of the Kosciuszko Alpine Way is a steep and narrow road. This is why it is suggested that vehicles towing large caravans do not drive on this road.

But the pass is very popular with motorbike riders thanks to the windy roads. Once you are over the mountain pass you will reach the town of Khancoban .

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way is a great New South Wales road trip.

Cooma to Jindabyne – 62km
Jindabyne to Kosciuszko National Park – 41km
Jindabyne to Khancoban – 111km

Route – Albury to Wentworth
Distance – 830km
Duration – 4 days to a week
Highlights – Wagirra Trail, Corowa Whisky and Chocolate, Lake Mulwala, Big Reedy Lagoon Wildlife Reserve, Tocumwal Blowhole, Murray Valley National Park, Historic steam engines and paddle-steamers on the river, Morrisons Riverview Winery, Restaurant & Brewery, Balranald Heritage Trail, Mungo National Park

Along this iconic NSW road trip you will see diverse landscapes, taste amazing local food & wine and enjoy the spectacular activities and tours the Murray River has to offer.

This Murray River road trip itinerary follows the Murray River itself as it meanders from town to town.

You will visit beautiful historical country towns and you can immerse yourself in local Aboriginal tours and experiences as this area has some of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal history along the way.

The Murray River is 2,508km and runs along the border of New South Wales and Victoria, being Australia’s longest river.

From Albury all the way across to Wentworth, you can stop off where you like and enjoy the experiences that interest you.

The trip can take you up to a week or even 2 weeks if you like to take it slow. This area is really breathtaking.

Albury to Howlong – 28km
Howlong to Corowa – 29km
Corowa to Yarrawonga-Mulwala – 45.5km
Yarrawonga-Mulwala to Tocumwal – 55.5km
Tocumwal to Echuca-Moama – 121km
Echuca-Moama to Barham – 90km
Barham to Balranald – 149km

Route – Wentworth, Pooncarle, Menindee, Wilcannia, Tilpa, Louth, Bourke, Cobar, Hillston
Distance – 950km
Duration – 5 – 7 days at a leisure pace
Vehicle – Any vehicle
Road Conditions – Mostly sealed but there are unsealed roads
Highlights – Aboriginal experiences, Mount Grenfell Historic Site, Kinchega National Park, Kallara Station, Tilpa Hotel, Bindara On The Darling, Mungo National Park, Mungo Woolshed, Gundabooka National Park, Dunlop Station.

The outback of NSW is a place where you can find invigorating hikes and scenic views.

The Darling River stretches 2,740km through the outback of New South Wales, going from the Victoria border where it meets up with the Murray River to all the way up to the Queensland border.

Travelling through the Darling River, Bourke to Wentworth route offers an unforgettable experience with ancient rock formations, historic landmarks and plenty of wildlife that will leave your friends jealous when they see photos from this incredible journey!

This natural beauty touring route can be undertaken either in whole or part and will not disappoint those seeking adventure for their next vacation destination!

The stunning views are only matched by rafting down different sections of its course that you choose based on your desires. There’s something here for everyone looking for an authentic experience just two hours outside Sydney.

From white water rafting and fishing in the Darling River to visiting Aboriginal communities offering cultural experiences surrounding this iconic river through outback New South Wales.

Aboriginal culture is strong in this area. And you can do anything from reading about their history on Mulgowan (Yappa) Art Site walk or experiencing it first-hand along with shearing techniques during a visit to Kinchega Woolshed.

This is said to be one of Australia’s most significant historic buildings still operating today!

For those looking for an escape after all that exploring, there are many tranquil spots beside Darling River where you can stop for a picnic lunch or set up camp under the starry desert sky.

Although only a fraction as long as its name suggests, there are still many things to see travelling 730km along this course between Brewarrina Junction and Walgett.

For example, you could stop at Barwon Falls or explore some ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.

With beautiful scenery in some of the best national parks, as well as easy farm-stays, you can get a real feel of outback life.

The route starts at Walgett then continues south all the way down until Brewarrina and Bourke with day one being 730 kilometres (454 miles) long.

You’ll find local attractions, such as Mungo National Park on its southern border, which is home to some of NSW’s most spectacular scenery. Or Kinchega Nature Reserve that offers an off-road experience like no other.

There are also unique experiences one could only find in Outback NSW. From learning about Aboriginal heritage at Lajamanu Community Museum to tasting delicious bush tucker prepared by locals while camping under the stars!

The Barwon River starts near Walgett, but the best way to experience Outback NSW’s towns and National Parks is by following a tour of these places that are not located along this path.

The route includes Lightning Ridge as well as other communities off the actual river, which flows from Brewarrina to Bourke before meeting with Bogan.

Walgett to Brewarrina – 134km
Brewarrina to Bourke – 98km
Bourke to Louth – 99km
Louth to Tilpa – 67km
Tilpa to Wilcannia – 156km
Wilcannia to Menindee – 155km
Menindee to Pooncarie – 123km
Pooncarie to Wentworth – 188km

Route – Coffs Harbour to Armidale
Distance – 185km
Duration – About 2.5 hours
Vehicle – Any vehicle is fine
Highlights – Waterfalls in Dorrigo National Park, New England Tablelands, Gondwana rainforest, Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve in Coffs Harbour, Town of Bellingen, Solitary Islands Marine Park.

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in New South Wales, Australia that will take your breath away, then the Waterfall Way is where it’s at.

The Waterfall Way road trip runs east-west from the Pacific Highway to the New England Highway at Armidale in New South Wales.

The route passes through some of NSW’s most scenic countryside and has become well known as its best – and Australia’s third most beautiful tourist drive!

You could cover this richly diverse region (5 national parks!) in about 2 ½ hours. But with so many amazing stops along the way, why do that? We’d advise you to stay the night along the way and take it all in.

The drive starts at Coffs Harbour , where you can get your fill of stunning waterfalls before continuing on to rainforest, open woodlands or farmland if desired.

It’s a journey into one of Australia’s most stunning regions, travelling through various environments including coastal rainforests and farmlands.

While there is so much to see and do when planning an epic road trip around New South Wales.

These are some of our favourite places to go when we have a desire to hit the road and explore the wide open country.

Whether you’re interested in a drive along the South Coast, are searching for the best walking trails in the Alps or want to take in delicious pub meals at off-the-beaten-path bars in one country town or another, we’re confident that these six NSW road trips will be as memorable as they are enjoyable!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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28 unforgettable road trips in NSW

Whether it's journeying from beautiful beaches to ancient rainforests, traveling along picturesque coastlines, grazing through bountiful food and wine trails, or embarking on an epic outback adventure, these 28 New South Wales road trip itineraries have got you covered.

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Kosciuszko Alpine Way

Cooma to kosciuszko national park.

Pack your sense of adventure for this unforgettable drive from Canberra through to the magnificent Snowy Mountains. On the 180-kilometre drive, stop in Cooma for Snowy River adventures, take in serene scenes at Lake Jindabyne (pictured), then get ready for the all-seasons alpine playground of Kosciuszko National Park. Picture: Destination NSW

Coast and Country Highlife

Bowral to robertson.

This 540-kilometre loop offers a tasty foray into coast and country. Explore the culinary highlights of the Southern Highlands, visit a sustainable farm in Braidwood, shuck oysters and spot whales in Batemans Bay (pictured), feast on fresh seafood at Mollymook, sip wines in the cellar doors surrounding Jervis Bay, find an epicurean hub in Gerringong, and stock up on cheese and jams in Robertson. Picture: Destination NSW

Stargazing and Storytelling

Parkes to bourke.

Weave your way through Central and Outback NSW on this 910-kilometre epic drive . From Parkes, wander Dubbo’s zoo and historic streets. Gaze at the stars at the Warrumbungles (pictured) and learn more about the Dark Sky Park in Coonabarabran’s observatories. Fossick for opals at Lightning Ridge, get a deeper understanding for Aboriginal culture at Brewarrina and wrap up on the river in Bourke. Picture: Destination NSW

Greater Blue Mountains Drive

Katoomba to hawkesbury.

This two-day, 220-kilometre circuit is an exploration through the alluring sandstone plateaus west of Sydney. See the Three Sisters in Katoomba, explore the 340-million-year-old Jenolan Caves, stroll the verdant Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah, go cider tasting in Bilpin, and finish with a paddle on the Hawkesbury River. Picture: Destination NSW

Cool Coast to Intrepid Inland

Newcastle to maitland.

From world-class surf to world-famous wineries this 250-kilometre loop offers fun for everyone. Start with a dip in Newcastle’s ocean baths then head south to Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast. Explore Glenworth Valley’s serene wilderness by horseback, drink in the vine-covered hills of Hunter Valley wine country, and finish in the graceful riverside towns of Maitland (pictured) and Morpeth. Picture: Destination NSW

Heritage Highlights

Picton to coalcliff.

Take a trip back in time on this historic 210-kilometre sojourn . Visit NSW’s first European settlement in Picton, the heritage rail lines of Thirlmere, and Australia’s best-preserved Georgian town Berrima. Taste exceptional wine and food in Bowral and Berry, hike the cliffs of Kangaroo Valley, and finish with a scenic drive across the ocean-perched Seacliff Bridge (pictured) in Coalcliff. Picture: Destination NSW

Waterfall Way

Coffs harbour to armidale.

Celebrate wilderness and wonder on this 210-kilometre drive from the Mid North Coast to the country. Explore the natural beauty of the Coffs Coast; pass lush countryside of Bellingen; chase the waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park (pictured) and Dangar Falls; hike through volcanic, Gondwana forest-clad valleys in Ebor; spot wallabies in Wollomombi; and end in Armidale, the ‘Cathedral City’. Picture: Destination NSW

Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

Wollongong to merimbula.

Find indulgence and adventure on this 420-kilometre voyage between two cities. From Wollongong, journey through Kiama’s hinterland to the white sands of JervisBay and picturesque harbour town of Ulladulla. Taste oysters in Batemans Bay, take a scenic flight over Moruya and swim with the seals off Montague Island (pictured). Find more great surf and seafood in Merimbula, just an hour from the border. Picture: Destination NSW

Kamilaroi Contrasts

Willow tree to bourke.

Take your time roaming Kamilaroi country on this 930-kilometre cultural odyssey . Drive through bright canola fields of Quirindi and get close to nature in Gunnedah. Take a dip in the Great Artesian Basin bore baths, follow in the footsteps of legendary Aboriginal tracker Norman Walford on the Walford Walkway, search for opals at Lightning Ridge (pictured), and get a taste of real outback life in Bourke. Picture: Destination NSW

Darling River Run

Walgett to wentworth.

Follow the Darling River (pictured) to the great outback on this 930-kilometre tour through the bush . Dip in Walgett’s thermal Artesian Bore Baths, see 40,000-year-old fish traps (Ngunnhu) in Brewarinna, go paddle-boating in Bourke, stop for a meal at the legendary Tilpa Hotel, learn our Indigenous history at Kinchega National Park in Menindee, and finish at the sweeping red sand dunes near Wentworth. Picture: Destination NSW

Legendary Pacific Coast

Lake macquarie to tweed heads.

Meander up the Pacific Highway on this 820-kilometre coastal journey . Explore sea caves and rockpools in Lake Macquarie (pictured), find the beach lifestyle of Newcastle, marvel at the sand dunes in Port Stephens, meet koalas in Port Macquarie, birdwatch in the wetlands of Hat Head National Park, snap the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, surf in Byron Bay, and savour the fruits of Tweed Heads. Picture: Destination NSW

Fossickers Way

Barraba to tamworth.

Brush up on mining history on this 585-kilometre adventure . Start in the heritage town of Barraba and see the magnificent silo art, fossick for sapphires in Inverell, and marvel at the giant cedars and coachwood trees in Glen Innes. Sample local produce, brews and spirits in Uralla; learn the gold-mining past of Nundle; and finish with a stop in country music hub Tamworth. Picture: Destination NSW

Mighty Murray River Drive

Albury to wentworth.

Starting in far south NSW, this 880-kilometre road trip revolves around the river. Canoe on the Murray in Albury; see the Tocumwal Blowhole, fed by an underground stream; board a historic paddle-steamer in Echuca-Moama; fish in the Five Rivers Fishing Trail in Balranald; journey to the desert landscapes of Mungo National Park; and finish where the rivers converge in Wentworth.

Food-Lover's Loop

Hawkesbury to hunter valley.

Taking in all things delicious, this 550-kilometre circuit offers long lunches, paddock-to-plate dining and edible souvenirs. Find the farm trails of the Hawkesbury, devour the gourmet offering in the Blue Mountains, sip wines in Mudgee and Rylestone and end your journey in the world-acclaimed vineyards and award-winning restaurants in the Hunter Valley.

Coast to Country

Port macquarie to coffs harbour.

Discover something new on this 430-kilometre adventure through the Mid-North Coast. Hang with koalas and camels in Port Macquarie, join a bush tucker tour in Kempsey, and taste cheeses from the buffalo farm at Eungai. Float in the rainforest-lined Bellingen River (pictured) or take on the white-water rapids in Nymboida. Detour to the Grafton Heritage Trail and finish the fun in Coffs Harbour. Picture: Destination NSW

Tablelands Food and Wine Trail

Gundaroo to bungendore.

Embark on a culinary country escape with this 550-kilometre grazing tour. . Try the cool-climate wines of the Yass Valley and Canberra District, then discover a hidden foodie’s paradise in Jugiong (pictured). Wander the orchards, vineyards and olive groves in Young, and feed the alpacas in Crookwell. Find a treasure trove of antiques and cafes in Braidwood and end the trip at the elegant cellar doors in Bungendore. Picture: Destination NSW

Kidman Way and Beyond

Albury to bourke.

This epic 830-kilometre route cuts through the centre of rural NSW from south to north. Soak up the river ambience on a scenic canoe tour in Albury, camp on the Murrumbidgee in Darlington Point (pictured), feast on Griffith’s food-bowl bounty, check out the old gold mines of Cobar and relax on a paddleboat in Bourke. Picture: Destination NSW

The Classic Australian Drive

Wentworth to gundagai.

Uncover the history and sights of true blue Australia on this 860-kilometre country trip . Speed down the red dunes in Wentworth and explore the striking rocky landscapes of Mungo National Park (pictured) . Follow the heritage trail or go fishing in Balranald, and visit an 1870s homestead in Hay. Delve deeper into Wiradjuri culture in Wagga Wagga, and finish on the Murrumbidgee River in Gundagai. Picture: Destination NSW

The Long Paddock

Echuca-moama to wilcannia.

Retrace a historic network of stock routes on this 600-kilometre drive to the heart of the outback. Follow the Murray River on a heritage paddle-steamer in Echuca-Moama, go bird watchingin Booroorban and watch sheep shearing in action in Hay. Explore the Ivanhoe Heritage Walk and set up camp on the Darling River in Wilcannia. Picture: Destination NSW

Grand Pacific Drive

Royal national park to jervis bay.

Offering an endless slideshow of natural beauty, the 210-kilometre Grand Pacific Drive takes in the heritage rainforests of Royal National Park just an hour south of Sydney, laidback seaside living in Wollongong, spectacular scenes at Kiama’s blowholes, before finishing on the stunning white sands of Jervis Bay (pictured).

A Tour of Caves and Fossils

Sydney to wellington.

Discover wonders old and new on this 570-kilometre expedition across country NSW. In Sydney unearth fossils at the Australian Museum then hike to soaring views in the Blue Mountains and Capertee Valley. Drive the cliffside curves in Bathurst, learn the bushranger history at Canowindra, taste cool climate wines in Orange, and finish in the gardens, rainforests, and caves of Wellington (pictured). Picture: Destination NSW

Central to Outback NSW

Dubbo to broken hill.

Adventure seekers and history lovers alike will appreciate this 790-kilometre trip through Outback NSW. Starting in Dubbo, visit historic agricultural town of Nyngan, learn the Indigenous culture and colonial history of mining town Cobar (pictured) , admire the colonial architecture of Wilcannia, and end the trip stargazing in heritage-listed Broken Hill. Picture: Destination NSW

Rainforest Way

Byron bay to tabulam.

From the Byron Coast (pictured) to the lush hinterland, travel at your own pace on this 250-kilometre journey . Discover an ancient volcanic caldera in Murwillumbah, World Heritage-listed rainforests at Uki, creative communities in Lismore and the charming towns of Casino and Tabulam. Picture: Destination NSW

Heritage Towns and Contemporary Tastes

Yass valley to jugiong.

Find unexpected adventures on this 430-kilometre circuit . Taste wine in Yass Valley’s historic vine-filled estates, follow antique trails through gold rush country, graze the orchards of Young (pictured), and feast on prime produce served in heritage settings in Junee. Taste the fruits of the Riverina food bowl in Wagga Wagga, and book into the rustic restaurants and wineries of colonial town Gundagai. Picture: Destination NSW

NSW Food and Wine Trail

Lithgow to mudgee.

Feast through Australia’s food bowl on this 580-kilometre epicurean journey . Sample cheese and whisky in the Blue Mountains, tour the wineries of Orange, and taste farm-to-table fare in Canowindra (pictured). Drive past golden canola fields outside of Parkes, stop by the farmers market in Dubbo, and celebrate the end of your journey with a glass of wine on the rolling hills of Mudgee. Picture: Destination NSW

Riverina to Snowy Valleys Way

Griffith to tumbarumba.

Take along your appetite on this 400-kilometre journey through NSW’s food bowl. Wander the vineyards of Griffith (including Yarran Wines, pictured), the cellar doors of Leeton, and unwind on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River in Narrandera. Taste cheese in Coolamon, chocolate in Junee, more wine in Wagga Wagga, and finish among the hillside grape vines of Tumbarumba. Picture: Destination NSW

High Country to Cruising Coast

Cooma to bungendore.

A feast for all senses, this 400-kilometre adventure begins in the laidback town of Cooma and bucolic dairy town Bega. Eat your way along the Sapphire Coast: oysters in Tathra (pictured), cheese in Tilba, fresh produce in Cobargo and all-natural ice-cream in Bodalla. Talk to the animals at Mogo; search for sea life at Batemans Bay; and go back in time in Braidwood and Bungendore. Picture: Destination NSW

North Coast Hinterland Adventure

Tea gardens to port macquarie.

Go from the waves to the waterfalls on this 300-kilometre nature pilgrimage. . Paddleboard beside the mangroves in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, kayak through the World Heritage-listed rainforest of Barrington Tops (pictured); look up at 200-metre Ellenborough Falls, one of the longest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere; get lost in the Bago Maze; and go on a camel safari in Port Macquarie. Picture: Destination NSW

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13 Epic NSW Road Trips: From Coast to Countryside

NSW road trip offers everything from pristine beaches to beautiful landscapes so unique you might think you have landed on another planet. We have spent years exploring the coastal cities and small county towns in NSW and today we thought we would try to inspire you to do the same.

Not sure where to go? Well, these road trips are a great place to start. From opals and hot springs to an open-range zoo and more than a dozen waterfalls. There’s much to do when you hit the road and explore NSW.

Because we haven’t been everywhere yet we asked our travel writing friends to share their favourite road trips in NSW to come up with 13 NSW Road Trips we think all locals should tick off their list.

White Cliffs

Lightning ridge, kangaroo valley, maitland and morpeth, coffs harbour.

This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .

If you are new to driving in Australia, then we suggest you start with this guide to Driving in Australia. You may also find our tips for r enting a motorhome in Australia helpful if you want the freedom of not having to book accommodation in advance. You can rent a campervan if you are travelling on a budget, but still have the convenience of a home on wheels.

Head west: Road Trips in NSW That Are Not On The Coast

As a nation of coast dwellers, many of NSW’s favourite holiday spots are dotted on the coast between Eden and Tweed Heads. But we would love to encourage you to take the road less travelled and head inland for an epic outback adventure. There is so much to see inland. It’s time to visit our unique country towns and enjoy their hospitality.

You may not have heard of the historic town of Wentworth but I am sure you will be familiar with its best known sites.

The river town of Wentworth 1050 kilometres west of Sydney offers travellers everything from significant landmarks and fascinating colonial history to natural wonders, including one of New South Wales’s most beautiful national parks.

Wentworth sits on the junction of the Murray River and Darling River. With its lovely reserve, an observation tower and plenty of information about the intersection. If you’re a history buff, there’s a lot to like about Wentworth. Highlights include the PS Ruby, a self-guided historical walk/drive, the wonderful Pioneer Museum and the well preserved Wentworth Gaol. There are some great natural features around Wentworth too. Perry Sandhills is 6km south of the town. They are great for sandboarding or just walking across to appreciate their size. Anyone with a green thumb will love The Australian Inland Botanic Gardens. It features a rose garden with over 1600 rose varieties. There is also a great playground and giant musical instruments made from recycled materials that kids will love.

Wentworth is the closest base from which to explore Mungo National Park only 150 kilometres away. The wind and water sculptured desert landscape is spectacular. Combine what you see today with the area’s 40,000-year-old indigenous history, and you have a unique location. Wentworth is a brilliant spot to visit year-round. Although, if you don’t like the heat, avoid visiting in the summer.

Contributed by Natalie and Steve, the Curious Campers

The highlight of my Sydney to Broken Hill drive is a tie between White Cliffs and Mungo National Park. While Mungo National Park is all over Instagram, few people have heard of White Cliffs. This old-school mining town in NSW is the definition of an underrated destination. Yet it is in my opinion much cooler than its more well-known cousin in South Australia, Coober Pedy.

Visiting the strange white hilly landscape that the locals of White Cliffs call home is a fantastic experience. Underground houses can be found below the white hills and give the town its deserted feel upon arrival. They are absolutely necessary though to maintain a cool indoor climate in the gruelling heat. Don’t forget to visit one as the interior of houses such as ‘the White House’ is nothing short of spectacular. If you are looking at staying in White Cliffs, look no further than The Underground Motel. The name gives it away, but the hotel only has underground rooms. Think cool temperatures, a lot of history, and nature’s best blackout curtains.

Marijs originally from Belgium now calls Australia home. Her website Rooftop Antics encourages women to travel more and gives you great solo itineraries.

NSW Answer to Coober Pedy

Located approximately 9 hours’ drive northwest of Sydney is the historic mining town of Lightning Ridge . This unique town is bursting with character and is a favourite among road trippers looking for something completely off the beaten track.

One of the primary attractions in Lightning Ridge is the natural bore baths. These natural hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a long drive. The water in these bore baths is rich in minerals, making it ideal for soaking away any aches and pains. Visitors can sink into the soothing waters while admiring the beautiful Australian outback views.

Lightning Ridge is also famous for its opal mines. You can explore the town’s mining history by visiting the mining museum and learning how opals are mined and refined. Gem shopping is also a highlight, with many shops offering exquisite opal jewellery and other gemstones. It’s very hard to leave without buying at least one!

Lightning Ridge Landscape with a family of ducks

For a unique and adventurous experience, visitors can try fossicking for opals with Opal Mine Adventure. We loved our day out with them and it was the perfect way to learn more about the character of the town. We also got to meet the local ducks!

Plan to visit in autumn or winter. In summer, even the locals clear our heads deep into their mines to escape the unbearable heat.

A great introduction to outback NSW Cobar makes a great stop on a road trip to Broken Hill.

Since copper was discovered in the mid-1870s, Cobar, which sits in the middle of NSW between Dubbo and Broken Hill, has been one of the state’s most productive mining towns.

The first discovery was made by a pastoralist who was led to the site by local Aborigines; I wonder if they knew what sharing the location would result in if they would have gone ahead.

Today, thanks to increased mining in recent years, activity Cobar’s is home to 4,000 people and is a busy, welcoming town. Several mines, including the New Cobar Open Cut Gold Mine and Great Cobar Copper Mine, are open for visitors.

There are several heritage buildings in Cobar and a stop at the Great Cobar Heritage Centre where you can learn about Cobar’s history is a good way to start your visit.

However, one of the biggest draw cards to the Cobar area is the incredible Aboriginal rock art. You will find it about 40 km west of the town at the Mount Grenfell historic site. The site boasts 1,300 artworks of the Wongaibon people, including hand stencils and depictions of animals and people, making it one of the most significant in the state. Cobar is just under 700 kilometres from Sydney via Dubbo, and the drive takes about eight hours. We suggest you avoid driving between dusk and dawn as it is prime time for kangaroos, goats and emus to wander on the road. Visit in Spring or Autumn when the weather is mild. Summer can be scorching!

Suggested by Leah Smileski from Kid Bucket List who visited Cobar in NSW Central West with her whole family

The best choice for a family road trip in NSW, a trip to Dubbo includes the world class Taronga western plains zoo, the Royal Flying Doctor Centre and lots of family friendly accommodations .

Just five hours away from Sydney lies the charming town of Dubbo, which is more than just a pit stop for a visit to the Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Dubbo is by taking the scenic Great Dividing Range route. This route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in NSW while showcasing the natural diversity of the region. From soaring mountain ranges to sprawling farm fields, the Great Dividing Range route has it all.

Aside from its breathtaking natural scenery, Dubbo is also steeped in colonial and Indigenous history. Discover the town’s rich history by visiting landmarks such as the Old Dubbo Gaol, or learn about Australia’s first people through the exhibits at the Dubbo Regional Museum. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the Royal Flying Doctor base; an essential service that links rural Australians with vital medical care.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history or explore the great outdoors, make a stop in Dubbo for a perfect family road trip.

A charming town surrounded by nature

Nestled in the heart of the New South Wales Southern Highlands , Kangaroo Valley is a small town that offers a peaceful and scenic getaway. Its lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque river make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

A stroll through Kangaroo Valley’s streets will let you take it to its many heritage buildings. The historic Hampden Bridge is also worth a visit for its unique and beautiful design. Stop in at the General Cafe for some delicious homemade scones with jam and cream.

For those looking for adventure, the town also offers a variety of outdoor activities. Canoeing down the Kangaroo River is a popular choice, as is horse riding through the rolling hills. The town is also home to several bushwalking trails, which showcase its stunning natural beauty.

Kangaroo Valley is a great getaway from Sydney if you are looking for a quick drive from Sydney that delivers a quiet, back-to-nature escape.

NSW Road Trips for Foodies

The wine regions and dairy country of NSW, complete with the natural beauty of our next few stops offer excellent road trip getaways that are not too far from Sydney.

Mudgee is a fantastic food and wine region, just on the other side of the Blue Mountains.

Mudgee is one of NSW’s premier wine regions in the Central Tablelands of NSW. The 270 km journey will take you around 3.5 hours to 4 hours, or 45 minutes, by air with Pelican Airlines.

Mudgee is home to over 35 wineries, a gin distillery, cheese-makers, local restaurants and bars. You can wander the historical streets of Mudgee in the morning taking in the colonial buildings that date back to the 1800s, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many coffee shops before heading to one of the local wineries for wine tasting and farm-to-table lunch experiences. Two of our favourite wineries are Gooree Park Wines and Moothi Estate. The best time to visit Mudgee is in the spring or autumn. The summer months between December and February will see temperatures reaching the high 30s. If you can plan to visit Mudgee between Thursday and Sunday, you will find all the wineries and restaurants open, and some of the smaller wineries close between Monday and Wednesday. You can choose from a range of accommodations from boutique hotels, glamping, bed and breakfasts, pubs and farm stays.

Suggested by Jane from To Travel Too

A very pretty town with a fabulous food and wine industry. This is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

Orange is a sophisticated, large country town buzzing with quality and hatted restaurants, cafes and wine bars, high-end boutiques, and artisanal stores. All this is surrounded by vineyards and over 40 cellar doors on the outskirts of the town. Orange in the Central West is ideal for a country food lover’s escape. It’s a good place to experience ‘living like a local’. Just a 3.5-hour scenic drive from Sydney west over the Blue Mountains, Orange is also accessible by XPT train and direct daily flights from Sydney with REX Airlines.

Blessed by four distinct seasons, you’ll want to keep coming back to experience them all. The annual Orange F.O.O.D Week festival each April coincides with the autumn produce harvest and wine vintage, attracting over 10,000 visitors to the region over its two-week program.

Six months later, the Orange Wine Festival is held in October, incorporating the Orange Wine Show where local vignerons uncork the latest vintage to review the spectacular results.

The Orange wine region is the highest altitude wine-producing region in Australia (starting at 600 metres up to 1,100 metres above sea level). The cool-climate wines of the Orange region are produced in an elegant, full-bodied style similar to Europe with the Chardonnay, Sparkling, Shiraz and Pinot Noir varietals the stars of the region.

Contributed by Orange local, Kelly Anne from Silver Compass Tours

While a trip to the Hunter Valley is on many getaway lists but nearby Maitland and Morpeth are fabulous towns with plenty to keep you entertained.

While many are familiar with the fabulous wineries in the Hunter Valley, the adjacent county towns of Maitland and Morpeth have developed a strong foodie culture that is the perfect foil to their region’s supply of world-class wines, farm-fresh produce and quality artisan foods. The chefs and owners of the innovative local cafés, restaurants and bakeries have put the towns on the map as a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Located just a 2-hour drive from Sydney, it’s easy to incorporate Maitland and Morpeth into your NSW country road trip. It’s a picturesque drive too, as both historic towns are on the banks of the mighty Hunter River with plenty of open farmland and rolling fields. Another reason to visit these historic river port towns is their gorgeous heritage buildings and the stories from the past. Take one of the self-guided heritage walks, join a tour of Morpeth Gaol, wander along the riverfront and seek out the street art down by the Levee. There’s no one right time to visit the Maitland area, but our pick is when the temperatures fall, and you can enjoy cozying up in front of an open fire with the famed Hunter Valley hospitality.

Suggested by Toni from 2 Aussie Travellers

Read about our stay in Morpeth and Maitland earlier this year.

Iconic Coastal road trips in NSW

Beach holidays on the NSW Coast are an unforgettable experience for almost every Sydneysider. The beautiful beaches and amazing stops along the Pacific highway offer plenty of options for a fabulous scenic drive.

The 3rd largest city in NSW this Illawarra Coast hotspot is an easy escape on the city’s doorstep

The Grand Pacific Drive route will take you via Sydney’s Royal National Park to the South Coast and gives you an opportunity to drive across the Sea Cliff Bridge .

Located just an hour south of Sydney, Wollongong is a vibrant coastal city less than ninety minutes from Sydney. With its stunning beaches, acclaimed restaurants, and chic city bars, Wollongong has something for everyone.

The city’s beaches are a major draw card, with the famous surf break at North Wollongong Beach attracting surfers from all over the world. But it’s not just about the surf – Wollongong’s beaches are also perfect for swimming, fishing, and relaxing in the sun.

When it comes to dining, Wollongong has plenty of options to choose from. Head to the bustling Crown Street for a range of cuisines, from modern Australian to Asian fusion.

As the sun sets, Wollongong comes to life with a range of night-time entertainment options. For a laid-back vibe, head to the Illawarra Brewery for craft beer and live music. For a more intimate experience, the wine bar at Mia Mia is the perfect spot to sample some of the region’s best drops. And for a night to remember, Pepe’s on the Beach in North Wollongong is a must-visit – with stunning views of the ocean and delicious food and drinks on offer.

Related: We recently spent 2 nights in Newcastle and had a fabulous time!

Home of the white sand beaches

Jervis Bay , located on the south coast of New South Wales, is an ideal destination for a NSW road trip itinerary. The bay is renowned for its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, making it an oasis for beach lovers and water enthusiasts alike.

One of the most popular spots in Jervis Bay is Huskisson, an idyllic seaside town with a lively atmosphere. Take a stroll down the main street for a range of boutique shops and cafes, or grab a meal at Pilgrims Vegetarian Cafe, a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.

For nature lovers, Booderee National Park is an absolute must-visit. With its pristine beaches, rugged coastline, and lush forests, this park is home to an abundance of wildlife and biodiversity.

In addition to swimming and snorkelling, Jervis Bay is also a whale watching hotspot. During the winter months, visitors may catch a glimpse of humpback whales as they migrate along the coast.

Overall, Jervis Bay is a beautiful coastal destination with a range of attractions and activities to explore. Consider staying at Mollymook , a pretty beach town with plenty of accommodation options.

A Picturesque Coastal City on the mid-north coast

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful coastal city located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, on the North Coast of New South Wales. Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back vibe, it is a popular stop for road trippers exploring the east coast.

One of the must-visit attractions in Coffs Harbour is the Big Banana, an iconic landmark of the city. Visitors can enjoy fun activities such as a giant slide, mini-golf, and a water park at this family-friendly attraction.

Jetty Beach is another great spot for a swim or a picnic with its calm waters and scenic views. For those interested in marine life, the National Marine Science Centre is a fascinating place to learn about the underwater world and conservation efforts.

Muttonbird Island is a beautiful nature reserve and home to hiking trails offering stunning views of the coastline and abundant birdlife.

We usually stay at the Oaks Resort and Spa which has breathtaking ocean views and excellent amenities. The Big 4 Caravan Park is a great choice for families.

Tip: Make sure you stop off for a delicious and fresh seafood meal, at the iconic Fishermen’s Co-Op.

Coffs Harbour is the perfect destination for road-trippers looking for a peaceful coastal getaway with plenty of natural beauty and family-friendly fun activities to indulge in.

A classic Aussie coastal town with beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe

Located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Kingscliff is a coastal town that offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere. Known for its long gorgeous beaches, Kingscliff is a perfect stop for those looking to unwind and soak up the sun.

The town’s pristine white sand beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing or surfing. The nearby Cudgen Creek also offers calmer waters for those looking for a more relaxed experience.

Kingscliff is surrounded by scenic drives, making it a perfect stop for road trippers. Visitors can take a scenic drive that offers panoramic ocean views as well as the panoramas of the stunning hinterland.

For adventure enthusiasts, Kingscliff offers a range of outdoor activities such as mountain biking and walking tracks through the nearby nature reserves and national parks. The town also boasts a range of dining options, from fresh seafood to wine bars, as well as boutique shops selling local art and crafts.

Overall, Kingscliff is a laid-back and charming coastal town that offers a perfect stop for visitors looking for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Want to start with shorter drives? Check out our list of day trips 1-2 hours from Sydney.

Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

6 thoughts on “13 Epic NSW Road Trips: From Coast to Countryside”

Great suggestions. There are so many places to visit in NSW. My mum was born in Maitland so I have been there many times!

That’s a great spot right by the vineyards!

Can’t wait to explore these while we are in Australia! So many great tips!

Thank you for this post! I saved it for later as it will help in planning the epic Australia road trip that’s on my bucket list. White Cliffs is now on my itinerary!

I’ve been to half of these places but obviously have a lot more exploring to do in my own state. Thanks for hosting me in this great collab post.

Even when you love a good road trip as much as we do there are always new places to discover. Thanks Paula for adding a couple more good options for our next trip south.

Hey Alexa, find me 5 epic NSW road trips

Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW

Aerial overlooking cars driving along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.

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Get a buzz uncovering lesser-known parts of New South Wales and finding new ways to experience the more visited corners of the state. Renew your wanderlust with these five routes to explore NSW’s beautiful beaches, characterful small towns, astonishing natural wonders and tempting food and wine.

Be mesmerised by coastal scenery on the Grand Pacific Drive

Feel enlivened by the sea breeze as you set off on the Grand Pacific Drive at the Royal National Park , less than an hour’s drive south of central Sydney . Be wowed by the dramatic Sea Cliff Bridge , which traces the curves of the coast between Coalcliff and Clifton, and continue to the relaxed coastal city of Wollongong , where you can stop for an energising coffee or a tasty bite to eat by the beach at Diggies . Feel the power of the famous Kiama Blowhole , a natural formation that blasts seawater 30m into the air, in the town of Kiama . Allow the surf to lull you to sleep while staying just steps from the sand at Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads , where you savour fine dining infused with Australian native ingredients at its excellent onsite restaurant.

Continue on to the idyllic blue waters of Jervis Bay , just three hours’ drive south of Sydney. Dive in for a refreshing swim, take an exhilarating dolphin- or whale-watching tour with the likes of Jervis Bay Wild and wiggle your toes in some of the whitest sand in the world on the glorious White Sands Walk . Soak up the coastal scenery from a different angle on a luxe glamping stay at Paperbark Camp near bayside Huskisson , which is also home to a memorable restaurant, The Gunyah.

Feel your stress melt into big sky country on a drive from Sydney to Lightning Ridge

Tap into your sense of adventure on a trip along roads less travelled to the historic mining town of Lightning Ridge , almost nine hours’ drive northwest of Sydney in Outback NSW . Discover plenty of interesting stops along the way, such as Katoomba , where you can browse for unique mementos at its antique stores, feel your soul stir as you take in the Blue Mountains views, and enjoy the old-world charm of local stays including the Metropole Guesthouse and The Carrington Hotel .

Lap up the food and wine of the charming country town of Mudgee , where newcomer The Barn at Blue Wren Farm offers a fresh way to savour the scenic region’s renowned produce. Then call in on historic Gilgandra , birthplace of the World War I Coo-ee March, and the outback town of Walgett , for a reviving coffee at Stone’s Throw . From here, it’s only an hour to Lightning Ridge. Experience a warm country welcome upon check-in at the likes of Sonja’s Bed and Breakfast before heading out to explore ‘The Ridge’. Get a taste of the town’s heritage on an opal mine tour, have a blast mastering the art of fossicking, and bliss out in naturally heated artesian bore baths .

Drift peacefully along the Mighty Murray River Drive

Take an immersive journey into Australian history on the Mighty Murray River Drive , an unforgettable four-day exploration of the Riverina Murray region starting on the banks of the Murray River in Albury , a 5.5-hour drive or a short flight from Sydney. Steep in the area’s heritage on a pre-road trip stay at Circa 1928 Albury , housed in a former bank, or lean into the urban vibe at the Atura Albury . Be surprised and delighted by the fascinating stories of heritage towns including Howlong and Corowa , where Corowa Whisky and Chocolate , set inside a 1920s flour mill, offers a delectable pit stop.

See the Murray from a fresh perspective on an atmospheric Murray River Paddlesteamers cruise in the twin towns of Echuca Moama , throw in a line at Balranald , where five rivers meet, and connect with Aboriginal culture and the unique natural landscape of Mungo National Park . Get a buzz camping alongside native wildlife in the national park, or tuck into a hearty country meal at Mungo Lodge before enjoying a restorative night’s sleep in a spacious cabin room. Your final stop is Wentworth , where you can admire views of the Murray and Darling rivers, call in on the cellar door and restaurant at Trentham Estate Winery , and treat yourself to a night of glamping, including a romantic dining experience under the stars on an almond farm, hosted by Outback Almonds .

Reset on a quick getaway from Sydney to Newcastle

Discover how refreshing even a short trip can be on the drive from Sydney to the coastal city of Newcastle . Pause in the picturesque Hawkesbury region to slurp fresh oysters at the ‘shellar door’ of Broken Bay Pearl Farm in Mooney Mooney, just 45 minutes from the city centre. Move on at your own pace to Lake Macquarie , the largest coastal saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere, where you can get your blood pumping on a kayaking excursion or an invigorating rainforest walk. Once in Newcastle, two hours from Sydney, stroll down to the beach for a refreshing dip before checking out one of the city’s great restaurants. Merewether Surfhouse is the perfect spot for a long lunch with dazzling ocean views, or enjoy a delicious five-course tasting menu at contemporary bistro Subo . Then turn in for the night at the likes of recently opened QT Newcastle or Crystalbrook Kingsley . Connect with the city’s heritage at either hotel, as they both occupy characterful historic buildings.

Breathe in the cool mountain air on a drive from Sydney to Jindabyne

Admire the changing landscape as you make your way from Sydney to Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains , a five-hour trip that’s worth extending to make selfie stops at the likes of the Big Merino in the historic town of Goulburn , two hours southwest of Sydney. Strap in for a thrilling virtual fly-over of the Snowy Mountains at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre in the town of Cooma , another two hours down the road. And thrill to on-snow activities for the whole family at the ski resorts of Thredbo , Perisher and Charlotte Pass near Jindabyne. No snow? Challenge yourself with a session of rock climbing or mountain biking with K7 Adventures , or linger over an artisan tipple at Wildbrumby Distillery , which bottles schnapps, gin and vodka in alpine surrounds. Seize the opportunity to take a walk to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest point. And be amazed by another natural attraction at Yarrangobilly Caves , two hours north of Jindabyne, where you’ll find stalagmites, stalactites and cave corals, and an above-ground river walk to a thermal pool. Enjoy the convenience of the central location and freshly renovated rooms on a stay at the Banjo Paterson Inn , home of the Kosciuszko Brewery. Savour the fare at the two restaurants located on the property, or take a stroll around town to discover something new such as Holly Go Lightly , a burger bar that also slings excellent cocktails.

Whale Watching, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins

Humpback whales migrating off the south coast of NSW near Jervis Bay.

Scenic Drive, Cumborah Credit: Destination NSW

Scenic outback drive in Cumborah, near Lightning Ridge.

Mount Warning Tours, Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW

Friends enjoying an early morning kayak tour on Tweed River with scenic views of Mount Warning.

Camping, Kosciuzko National Park Credit: Destination NSW

Camping underneath the stars at Island Bend Campground in Kosciuszko National Park.

Nature & Adventure
Aquatic & Coastal

Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

Horse riding in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains. For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.

Set course for adventure in Jindabyne, a quaint lakeside town in the foothills of New South Wales’ Snowy Mountains, and a great base camp for an energising, nature-based holiday. Delight in a range of exciting seasonal experiences, from action-packed days on the snow to summertime hikes that will leave you feeling fresh.

Pick your own adventure

There's an array of activities on your doorstep in Jindabyne – a five-hour drive southwest of Sydney. In warm weather, get your blood pumping on a mountain bike ride, or try your hand at rock climbing with K7 Adventures. Travelling when the mercury drops? Relish in the wintry scenery on one of K7’s snow-shoe expeditions. Alternatively, get a natural high on a guided horse trek at Snowy Wilderness Resort , set on more than 6,500 acres of awe-inspiring alpine high country just south of Jindabyne.

There’s also a whole lot of adventure to uncover in Kosciuszko National Park during summer. Revel in the sense of achievement hiking the summit of Mount Kosciuszko , Australia’s highest point at 2,228m elevation – it’s an 18.6km return trail from Charlotte Pass , so plan on spending a full day (six to eight hours) out in nature. If you’d prefer a shorter walk, the serene Rainbow Lake walk is a 2.4km-return trail that boasts stunning wildflowers during springtime.

Post-activity, take a deep breath and calm your mind during a hatha yoga session at Jai Yoga . Then further reward your day’s efforts with a celebratory schnapps made at Wildbrumby , which has a distillery door and restaurant overlooking a sculpture garden. Prefer a beer? Jindabyne Brewing bar and tasting room has views across Lake Jindabyne – find a scenic perch and enjoy the ultimate taste of the region as you sip. Another option for a refreshing swig of beer is Kosciuszko Brewery. Located at Jindabyne’s Banjo Patterson Inn, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after an exhilarating day of adventure activities.

Try out the local dining scene

Follow your nose to the delectable range of oven-fresh breakfast pastries on offer at Nimmitabel Bakery . The aroma of freshly brewed Axis Roasters coffee is just as difficult to resist at Birchwood , where you can also fill up before a big day in the great outdoors on cheese toasties, muesli bowls, moreish breakfast salads and more.

Self-catering? Head to The Market . At this part café, part market, you can choose between sinking your teeth into wholesome dishes or grabbing organic fruit and veggies and specialty grocery items to take away.

Cosy up at the end of the day at Bacco Italian Restaurant , which has been preparing pizzas and pastas for more than 25 years; kids are well catered for with a dedicated menu of tasty bites. Or take your palate on its own adventure at much-loved Cafe Darya , which dishes up welcoming Persian favourites including dips, pastries and stews. Pair zingy tacos with lip-smacking margaritas at Cucina Grill & Cantina , and treat your travelling companion to an intimate Japanese dinner at Takayama ; kick off a memorable meal with a serving of succulent pork gyoza with ponzu dipping sauce.

Stay in quintessential Snowies lodging

Lean into farm life at Avonside Alpine Estate , a dreamy off-grid farm stay with a vegetable garden, chickens, sheep and highland cattle. The two- and three-bedroom cottages unite Scandi style with sustainable design, and boast calming country vistas, too.

Be soothed by the snow gums surrounding Ecocrackenback, just outside of Jindabyne, as you warm up by the fire in one of its 18 self-contained cabins. Or soak up the similarly scenic setting at Moonbah Hut , which offers two charming timber cottages near Jindabyne that sleep four or five guests. With one hut set on a lake and the other by a river, you can begin or end a summer's day with an invigorating dip, while the stone fireplaces, underfloor heating and exposed beams make the cottages feel particularly snug during the winter months.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service manages a number of lodges throughout Kosciuszko National Park, including Creel Lodge. Here you can bask in serene Lake Jindabyne views from the breakfast table. As the moon rises over the lake, indulge in the nostalgic pastime of roasting marshmallows over the outdoor fireplace for dessert.

Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

Hiking in Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains For media use only in Australian markets to promote NSW.

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Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery, Crackenback Credit: Destination NSW

The Wildbrumby Distillery & Cafe is a unique, boutique schnapps distillery located on the Alpine Way in the picturesque Thredbo Valley,

Lake Crackenback, Thredbo Credit: Destination NSW

Kangaroos at Lake Crackenback, Thredbo.

Lake Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

Scenic views of Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains.

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The great central nsw road trip.

Featured Explorer

Pat is an Australian-based outdoor adventure & lifestyle photographer. After completing university, he said sayonara to Australia with only a backpack, a one-way ticket to Patagonia, 20-hours of Spanish podcasts. Over the course of a year, two friends and he rode motorbikes from the bottom of South America to the top. From a 24-day trek through the Andes and climbing 6,000m peaks to living on a remote beach in huts made of driftwood for a month, the year was everything they could have hoped for… x10. Returning from a year of travel, he promptly dove head first into photography and got back to exploring our wild places.

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Chuck some ice in the esky, get those tunes on blast, and grab a mate to ride shotgun, cause we’ve got a road trip you’re not going to wanna miss. Central NSW is all about cruisey country living, with a bounty of walks, swim spots, and bike trails just waiting for you on Wiradjuri country.

We acknowledge that the land we travelled on belongs to the Wiradjuri people. They have cared for this country for thousands of years and their connection to it passed through generations. We pay our respects to the land, and its elders past, present and emerging. The Wiradjuri people are the Traditional Custodians of this land and we recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Soaking up the local energy at Koorawatha Pub
More wild swims that you can fill a dam with
Native birds, roos, emus and maybe even a goanna if you’re lucky

I’ve been living in NSW for almost 12 months and have barely strayed from the coast. NSW is full to the brim with beautiful places and I always knew there were some gems on the other side of the tablelands, but I’d never gotten around to visiting. Now, after spending the better part of a week out there, I’m kicking myself that I didn’t visit sooner.

Let me share with you the lowdown of a jam-packed five days you should book into your calendar. Do it all at once, split it into a few weekends or take your lappy with you and tell the boss you’re ‘working remotely’. Either way, there’s a little bit of something for everyone on a Central NSW road trip.

Day 1 – Sydney, Bathurst & Blayney

Distance: 275km Total driving time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Starting off in the big smoke, you’re going to want to make a bee-line west immediately and head for greener pastures. Enjoy the windy roads and hills of the Blue Mountains before settling into the flat country of Central NSW.

The first stop is Evans Crown Nature Reserve , 45 minutes from Bathurst . The walking track takes you past some caves before ending on a stunning rock ledge. From here you can rock hop and scramble all the way to the top of Evans Crown, although this last part is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a bit of a dicey off-piste scramble.

Wash off the sweat and grime with a dip at the Carcoar Dam before making tracks to your lunch spot. After all that driving, hiking , and swimming, you’ve earned some grub. Lucky for you the banks of the Belubula River in Carcoar are the perfect perch for a bite to eat.

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes

Finish off the day by heading across to Junction Reefs Reserve Campground for the night. It’s a beautiful secluded campground at the site of a former mining dam from the 1800s. I’ve been told there’s some good fishing here, but don’t take my word for it – I wouldn’t know which end of the rod I’m supposed to hold.

Day 2 – Blayney, Cowra & Koorawatha

Distance: 180km Total driving time: 3 hours

To start your day off right, you’re going to want to head to Wyangala Dam for a morning dip. It’s a popular spot for fishing, watersports, and swimming, so it could be a good time to dust of the lilo and go for a float – you packed the lilo, right?

Next you’re heading through Cowra on your way to Conimbla National Park. Don’t forget to stop for a pre-hike coffee in town! Your destination is the Ironbark Walking Track, a cruisy 1-1.5 hour circuit that’ll give you views over the park and farmland and some great birdwatching opportunities. And if you make it there while the wildflowers are in bloom then count your lucky stars cause it is spec-tac-u-lar.

Nearby Accommodation

Reflections Holidays – Burrinjuck Waters

If you’re experiencing anything like the heat I discovered in Central NSW, it’ll be about time to cool off with another post-hike dip, and Koorawatha Falls is the place to do it. There’s a 4WD track going most of the way there, but it gets pretty rough and sandy. Instead, we opted to unload the bikes and ride the 7km from the Koorawatha Hotel into the falls.

Once you arrive, take a dip at the bottom of the falls or spend the arvo clambering around the left-hand side and up to the top. There are some stunning pools overlooking the falls up there and you can explore further back along the river. But be careful, stay away from the edge and don’t jump off the falls. A few people have done some pretty serious damage here in the past, and we’re only on day two of the road trip, so no injuries!

To finish off the day with a bang, cycle back to the Koorawatha Hotel for a cold one and settle in for the evening. Depending on which arvo you’re there, they’ll have a competition for cards, pool or darts, a local band or even a karaoke night. One thing’s for sure, you’re not going to have a bad time.

Day 3 – Koorawatha to Grenfell

Distance: 90km Total driving time: 1 hour

Throw back a Berocca, dust off that hangover and jump back on the road, cause we’re saying goodbye to Koorawatha Hotel and making our way to Grenfell .

If you can hold off, save your morning coffee for Spannerman Automotive and Espresso. They’ve got a groovy cafe attached to the workshop and as a Melbourne coffee snob, they pass the test. Grenfell is also a good place to stock up on any food, water or fuel you’ll need before getting to Forbes.

Before skipping town though, check out the Grenfell Silo Art, part of the growing Australian Silo Art Trail that stretches all the way across Australia.

If it’s swimming weather, stop by the Grenfell Company Dam to cool off, spin your pins with a ride, or even a paddle if you were smart enough to bring a kayak.

On your way to Ben Halls Campground for the night, stop off at the Holy Camp Campground where you’ll find the trailhead for Euralidie Walking Track to the Peregrine Lookout. This one is a non-negotiable. You’ll be treated to a nice steep climb to start before it flattens out and you have views across the farmland, and hopefully, some Peregrine Falcons circling below you. We saw three of them dancing in the thermals and hunting below us – I could have sat there for hours.

For the final gem of the day, head to Ben Halls Campground at the other end of Weddin Mountain National Park and set up for the night. Then you’re packing dinner and a headtorch and heading up Lynchs Loop Walking Track to watch the sunset over the plains. We were treated to a show better than any theatre back home, as the sun lit up the fields below and made it look like the heavens were shining down on this stunning land.

After an unforgettable dinner, all that’s left to do is cruise back to camp, climb into bed and pat yourself on the back for one hell of a day. Don’t forget to smile, cause this road trip ain’t over and you’ll be doing it all again tomorrow.

Day 4 – Grenfell to Forbes

Distance: 70km Total driving time: 1 hour

On your way to Forbes, check out the Sculpture Down The Lachlan art trail, a series of incredible sculptures scattered along 100km of the Lachlan River. Once you’re there, take some time to simply explore Forbes itself and fuel up on some pub food. Maybe take a ride around Forbes Lake, or if you still haven’t satisfied your wild swimming fix, Forbes Ski Dam can help with that.

While Forbes is a great spot to just sit back and take it all in, if there’s one must do, it’s Gum Swamp Bird Hide. Only a few kilometres out of town, it’s an easy ride away and at twilight comes alive with birds. There were so many native birds and the evening light on the wetlands is magical. Just don’t forget to pack the Bushmans.

And if you want to extend your time in Forbes, we’ve got a guide to a whole adventure weekend there . Yeehaw!

Day 5 – Forbes to Sydney

Distance: 380km Total driving time: 5 hours

As all good things must, it’s time for this road trip to come to an end and make your way back to Sydney . You’ll obviously need to fuel up on coffee and snacks for your drive through, so why not pop down to Sweet Three by the Lake for some breaky before you boost.

If you do, my recommendation would be an iced coffee and sweet corn fritters. Just tell them Pat sent you, they don’t know who I am and they’ll have no idea what that means, but why not?

It’s about five hours back to Sydney from Forbes so make sure you take plenty of breaks along the way and don’t forget to sneak one last country bakery in. A cauliflower and broc pie plus ‘Australia’s best’ vanilla slice at Bernard’s Bakery in Bathurst is my order in case anyone’s asking…

Essential Gear

Killer playlist for the open roads (plus a solid road trip buddy)
Mozzie repellent and SPF 50+
Togs for all the wild swimming you’ll be doing
A couple of pushies – ideally gravel bikes or mountain bikes

Distance Driven / Time Spent Driving / Days

All up you’re going to be clocking in almost 1,000km over the five days, which comes to about 13 hours driving in total. So make sure that killer playlist and road trip buddy are at the top of your packing list.

Leave No Trace

When travelling through Central NSW we were delightfully surprised at how clean it was and how little rubbish we found. At We Are Explorers, we reckon it’s a good idea to keep it that way , so make sure you take all of your rubbish with you, minimise your plastic use as much as possible, stick to the paths and try not to disturb the area or animals. Mother Nature will thank you for it!

Head to Visit Central NSW to unearth more adventures from the heart of the state!

THis is amazing, I can’t wait to do this trip. Is this 4wd only?

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Sydney to Byron Bay: A relaxed NSW road trip itinerary

This northern NSW road trip was actually not on my priorities list. Like, at all.

For longer trips I usually pick destinations that are a little further from my current home of Sydney , but with the pandemic closing Australia’s borders for international travel, that just wasn’t possible.

Instead, I was hoping to venture across the country to places that I hadn’t yet seen within Australia. Unfortunately our state borders are still on the fritz, and Rob and I had already dealt with two instances of cancelled interstate flights over the past few months. This meant that we had to look a bit closer to home for our latest travel destination.

Right before my first semester of university started for 2021, we did the only thing we could do with a safe-ish chance of it going ahead; we booked a road trip within New South Wales where there were no state borders to cross, no flights that could be cancelled, and no lockdowns that would keep us from driving out of town.

Northern NSW road trip itinerary:

We set off north along the coast from Sydney, heading all the way up to Byron Bay near the Queensland border before turning around and heading south via an inland route through Tamworth . The trip took us 10 days, though we could easily have extended it to 2 weeks for a more relaxed pace.

Our road trip began in Sydney, but if you’re planning on doing a similar trip, it would also be fairly easy to customise the itinerary to start from Brisbane , Newcastle, or Wollongong instead.

You can allocate the number of nights in each place as you please. We spent only one night in each major destination except for Byron Bay, where we stayed for four nights, but I do wish we’d spent an extra night in Tamworth. Coffs Harbour and the Hunter Valley could also have used an extra night in each.

Read on for my overview of each stop on the New South Wales road trip itinerary!

Central Coast

We were meant to meet up with my parents at The Entrance on the NSW Central Coast during their planned caravan trip in 2020, but of course that trip ended up being cancelled, so Rob and I were left with an accommodation voucher that needed to be used up. We had actually been here a few times before as Rob’s family live in the area, but it’s always nice to come back!

We stayed at Oaks Waterfront Suites in The Entrance, which I thought was a little overpriced considering our room had a very un-sexy view of the car park opposite the hotel (though you can upgrade to ocean view!), however it did have a comfortable and spacious room and the waterfront location makes it super easy to walk around town.

On this visit we spent time getting a deliciously healthy brunch at Modern Organic in Long Jetty, visiting the Norah Head Lighthouse, taking some walks along the foreshore, and swimming in The Entrance Ocean Baths. If you’re looking for a dinner suggestion, I’d highly recommend Los Dos Hombres Mexican restaurant. The tacos were to die for!

Port Macquarie

This seaside town is a place that we have visited a few times before. We only stopped in Port Macquarie for lunch this time around, but I would highly recommend staying for a day or two if you have the time.

Some of my fave attractions in Port Macquarie are the breakwall next to Town Beach which has fun painted rocks along the foreshore, and the cute lighthouse at Tacking Point with its killer views along Lighthouse Beach and the coast.

For something boozy, there’s the Bago Maze and Winery which has both a hedge maze and wine tastings (not sure if that’s a good combo!) and the Black Duck Brewery which has a beer garden and tasting bar for all you craft beer nerds (definitely try their Irish Red Ale!).

Urunga Wetlands Boardwalk on the NSW North Coast

Urunga (quick stop)

On the drive north from Port Macquarie, it’s definitely worth stopping at Urunga to see the wetlands boardwalk. This spot was a surprisingly awesome find for us! I discovered it just by looking at Google Maps for places to visit along the coast.

The boardwalk starts at the town centre and covers an area that was once used a shipping port but is now reclaimed wetlands with a forest of mangrove trees. At the far end, it reaches the sand dunes and Pacific Ocean.

It started raining pretty heavily while we were here but luckily we’d packed our raincoats! Afterwards we dried off in the local pub, the Ocean View Hotel , ordering a well-deserved veggie nachos before continuing our drive to Coffs Harbour.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour , known locally as just Coffs , is a laid-back seaside city surrounded by numerous banana plantations. I wasn’t expecting much from Coffs as it’s kind of known as a tacky tourist town where families with young kids go for a resort holiday, but I was pleasantly surprised–Coffs has some great attractions that are suitable for all ages.

We stopped in at The Big Banana (because it really wouldn’t be a trip to Coffs without visiting this spot!) and ordered one of their famous banana splits to share and walked it off around the jetty and foreshore. We also checked out Muttonbird Island which has a walking path leading to the far side where you can watch the ocean waves crash against the rocks, and the impressive Forest Sky Pier which is located just behind Coffs in the Orara East State Forest.

Looking south along the coast from Cape Byron in NSW, Australia

Before this trip, Rob and I had spent exactly one day in Byron Bay on our Queensland road trip in 2018. It really wasn’t enough time to explore the town properly, so we intended to get to know Byron Bay and the area surrounding it.

Byron Bay is known for being a beachy destination, but wouldn’t you know it–it rained basically the entire three days that we were there! I really wanted to do a surf lesson , but instead we squeezed in a few lake and river swims at the nearby Lennox Head and Brunswick Heads, checked out some local breweries , and ate out at some of Byron’s amazing restaurants such as Light Years . The food here is seriously next-level.

We also managed to do a quick walk up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse on the only afternoon when the sun temporarily showed its face, and completed the trail that leads from the lighthouse out to Australia’s easternmost point.

Views of the Byron Bay Hinterland from our accommodation near Bangalow

Byron Bay Hinterland (day trip)

Byron Bay Hinterland is just inland from Byron Bay. The lush green hilly area has gorgeous small towns scattered in the valleys that are easily accessible in a day trip from Byron Bay, though it also makes a great destination to base your stay (which is what we did)! We stayed in an Airbnb vacation home that was on a macadamia farm just outside of Bangalow, and it was an absolute dream.

If you’re heading into the Hinterland, check out the town of Bangalow for some cute coffee shops and boutique stores, and visit Mullumbimby for some vintage shopping and lunch (we ordered the above buddha bowl and green juice from Paséyo ). Afterwards, drive up to Minyon Falls Lookout to see gorgeous rainforest and waterfall scenery.

If you’d like to do a Byron Bay Hinterland day tour with a guide, that’s also an option. This will allow you to see the town of Bangalow as well as do a guided walk to the base of Minyon Falls!

Ebor + Armidale (quick stops)

It’s a long drive inland from Byron Bay to Tamworth, but it’s good to change up the return route to Sydney and see some of the New England region of NSW. If you’re not into long drives, you could split this one up by staying at either Grafton or Armidale along the way. Neither of those destinations really appealed to me so we hit the road early and did it all in one day.

On the way, we stopped at Ebor Falls for a leg-stretch. This spot has an easy walking trail between the two parking lots that allows you to see both the upper and lower falls. The valley scenery around here was really lovely, though the lookout points were both closed due to damage which was somewhat disappointing. Still, it was nothing a little bush-bashing couldn’t fix. Rob and I ventured off path to get a handful of good photos before heading back to the car.

For lunch, you can bring your own picnic along and eat it on the benches at Ebor, or if the weather is bad like it was for us, drive on to Armidale to have lunch at the Goldfish Bowl Bakery . This cafe was recommended to us by a friend who grew up in town. The coffee and food were both great, though in my opinion it was a tad pricey for the size (I’m just too accustomed to city prices!). Next time I’d get something pre-made from the counter to save money instead of ordering off the menu.

We only spent one night at the Quality Inn Ashby House in Tamworth, but I really wish we’d stayed for two as there is actually quite a lot to do in town. Tamworth is famous for being the location of the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival which celebrates the best country music from around Australia each summer. As a result, much of Tamworth’s tourism is based around this event.

The Big Golden Guitar, situated at the visitor centre, is a reference to the music awards and makes a great photo stop. Also, the Country Music Hall of Fame has an interesting collection of Australian country music memorabillia and is contained in a building shaped like a guitar (though it’s kind of hard to see the resemblance from the outside!).

Oxley Lookout is a must as it has a fab views of the town and surrounding hills. And for those of you who are history nerds like Rob, you’ll be interested to know that Tamworth was actually the first destination in Australia to get electric street lamps in 1888. Learn all about it with relics from the past in the Powerstation Museum .

Hunter Valley

Rob and I visited the Hunter Valley while attending a wedding a few years back, but we’d never properly explored it. This time, we stayed at the Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill and put aside an afternoon to do some wine tastings at a few of the vineyards in the area around Pokolbin. My absolute favourite was Tamburlaine as I much prefer organic wines!

If you’ll be spending the day doing wine tastings, I would recommend finding a way to get around that doesn’t involve driving for safety reasons (unless you want to spit out the wine, but really, what a waste!). We walked from our hotel to a few nearby cellar doors, but there’s a hop-on hop-off bus that stops by many of the wineries and hotels in the area, or you can book a full day wine tour and have someone else take care of the transport.

That was the last stop on our trip! From the Hunter Valley, it’s about 2.5 hours drive back to Sydney.

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The Coast Track in Royal National Park, NSW

How to get to Royal National Park using public transport

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

For those who live in Sydney, a road trip down the NSW South Coast is pretty much a rite of passage. I have many fond memories from my childhood, and during my adult life, of holidays visiting parts of this stunning and often underrated part of Australia.

The NSW South Coast is generally quieter than travelling north from Sydney. The beaches more untouched, the towns more quaint and the local produce in abundance. It ticks all the boxes for all kinds of trips, from family holidays, couple road trips and friend group getaways.

With lots to see and do, where do you start with planning your NSW South Coast road trip itinerary.

First, you need to work out how long to take for your South Coast road trip from Sydney. From there you can determine how many places you’ll be able to fit into your time. However if you want to see all the best bits in one trip, my suggestion would be to allow at least two weeks.

If you don’t have quite as much time to spend then you can use this South Coast road trip itinerary and pick parts out of the road trip to explore at different times.

Hiring a Vehicle

First thing you will need is a vehicle. If you live in Sydney or nearby, you’ll likely have your own car. If you will be flying into Sydney you’ll need to hire a car, campervan or caravan.

There is plenty of different types of accommodation available on the NSW South Coast to accommodate those travelling both by car and by campervan or caravan. Holiday parks with space for campervans, caravans and campers are in abundance in most towns along the coast.

A car will give you more freedom to park on the side of the road to discover something new. While campervan’s and caravans are your home on wheels. There are pros and cons to both options. Read my post on choosing the right means of transport for more on this.

Which ever option you choose, Hertz has great car, campervan and caravan hire options with comparative prices.

NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1 to 2 – Sydney to Kiama

Set off from Sydney in the early morning to allow plenty of time for stops along the way to Kiama, the first destination on this two week NSW South Coast road trip.

Sydney to Kiama Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Things to See Between Sydney and Kiama

Leaving Sydney you have many options for places to stop and explore along the way. In order below is a list of some of my favourites:

The Royal National Park – One of the oldest National Parks in the world, there is heaps to explore here and you could quite easily spend a week just seeing everything in the park. For this trip I’d suggest driving through the park rather than taking the highway south. Maybe make a stop at the Audley Boatshed for a coffee or short walk at Wattamolla.

Wattamolla in the Royal National Park - The Trusted Traveller

The Grand Pacific Drive – This is a beautiful stretch of coastal road with stunning beaches and breathtaking bridges that allow you to drive over the ocean away from the sheer cliffs above. You can read more about some of my favourite spots on the Grand Pacific Drive here .

Sea Cliff Bridge on the Grand Pacific Drive - The Trusted Traveller

Wollongong – The 10th biggest city in Australia, don’t let this put you off as most of the city is facing the coast and has a really relaxed vibe. Wollongong is a great place to stop halfway through your drive to Kiama to have a dip in the ocean and grab a bite to each for lunch. There are lots of great cafes, restaurants and take-away stores along the beaches.

Norhtbeach, Wollongong - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Kiama

The sleepy town of Kiama is the perfect place to stay the night. This lively town is full of restaurants, cafes and boutique shopping as well as some must see attractions around the area.

The Blowhole – This natural phenomena is basically a hole in the volcanic rock that shoots water metres into the air when the sea rushes underneath. It is said to be at its best when the seas run from the south east but having been there dozens of times myself, I haven’t left disappointed regardless of the sea direction.

Kiama Seaside Markets – Kiama hosts two monthly markets, on the third Sunday of the month for handmade goods, and the other on the fourth Saturday of the month selling local produce.

Terrace and Sandstone Walk shops – This small collection of shops are housed in restored timber houses circa 1886 which are the last of their kind. They were originally built by the local miners and today house boutique shops, restaurants and cafes.

The Terrace and Sandstone Walk Shops in Kiama - The Trusted Traveller

Kiama Coast Walk – This 20 km walk along a sign posted coastal track takes you from Minnamurra Village through Kiama and finishes at Werri Beach in Gerringong, south of Kiama. You can do the walk in sections or complete it in a whole day. More details about the walk can be found here .

The Beaches – Kiama has some fantastic beaches for all occasions. Looking to spend the day relaxing and swimming, head to Surf Beach which is patrolled; wanting to escape and have a beach all to yourself, check out Jones Beach which is also a great spot to see the Cathedral Rocks; endless stretches of sand can be found at Seven Mile Beach just south of Kiama in Gerroa; or my personal favourite Werri Beach where you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the locals surfers in action.

Jones Beach, Kiama Downs - The Trusted Traveller

Jamberoo – Famous for the water park of the same name, there is more to Jamberoo than waterslides. A nice short countryside drive inland from Kiama, Jamberoo has weekend markets, quaint stores and a small array of excellent cafes.

Where to Stay in Kiama

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Kiama Shores Motel

Mid-Range – Big4 Easts Beach Holiday Park

Luxury – Terralong Terrace Apartments

Days 3 to 5 – Kiama to Jervis Bay

Kiama to Jervis Bay Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

The next stop on your road trip NSW South Coast is Jervis Bay. The drive from Kiama to Jervis Bay isn’t far, taking less than an hour. You can have a late start and make a few stops along the way. There are two routes you can take, first along the highway or take the detour through the coastal towns of Gerringong, Gerroa and Shoalhaven Heads.

Berry – One of the top quaint towns in NSW, in Berry you will find plenty of great places to eat, lovely little local shops selling locally made items and some top pubs. If you are there for breakfast or morning tea, check out the Milkwood Bakery or for lunch the meals at the Great Southern Hotel are always great. Just a few minutes drive from the main street is the Berry Treat Factory, a great place to stock up on treats for the long road trip ahead.

Quaint shops in Berry - The Trusted Traveller

Shoalhaven Heads – The quintessential sleepy seaside town. A nice place for a stroll to stretch the legs after being in the car. The Shoalhaven River meets the sea here so you get the best of both worlds, nice river and ocean views plus a great stop for a swim!

Shoalhaven Heads - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is a year round destination fringed with stunning beaches, pristine national and marine park and quaint little towns with an abundance of delicious places to eat and drink. The whole area has a very chilled out vibe with lots to see and do for all ages.

Booderee National Park – Home to some the the areas most stunning beaches like Caves Beach and Murray’s Beach where you might run into a few of the local kangaroos who like to hang out in the car park. This National Park also has some great short walks, ruins and interesting Botanical Gardens. You could easily spend a day or more just exploring this park.

Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay - The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches - The Trusted Traveller

White Sands Walk – Beginning at Greenfield Beach picnic area this walk takes you on a loop past some of the best white sand beaches on the bay including world famous Hyam’s Beach, said to have the whitest sand in the world. The whole loop takes about an hour and is relatively flat, so good for most fitness levels.

Hyams Beach in jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

See Whales and Dolphins – During whale season (roughly June to November), these majestic creatures like to make their way into the bay and sometimes put on a bit of a show. However, if you’re not in the area during whale season then you can still see the amazing dolphins that live in the bay. The best way to see these creatures is on a cruise. Here are three great options to choose from:

1.5 Hour Dolphin Cruise
Dolphin Cruise with Boom Netting Experience
2 Hour Whale Watching Cruise

A pod of Dolphins in Jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – On the northern end of Jervis Bay, this lighthouse offers spectacular views looking out over the bay and through the opening out to sea. You can even make out the white sands of the beaches that rim the bay.

Point Perpendicular Lighthouse view - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Nearby St Georges Basin – Just 10 minutes from Huskisson (the main town in Jervis Bay) is St Georges Basin, a shallow lake home to some of the regions most beautiful flora and fauna. From Erowal Bay and the few towns along the Basin you’ll be able to go fishing, see flocks of birds take off and land on the still water and watch kangaroos lazing by the shore just before sunset. Its one of the most peaceful places on earth.

St Georges Basin - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Where to Stay in Jervis Bay

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located in Huskisson, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Huskisson Holiday Cabins

Mid-Range – Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast

Luxury – Ceespray on Owen

Days 6 to 8 – Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay

Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Heading further south in the morning from Jervis Bay, the drive to Batemans Bay is about two hours with lots of beach stops and detours along the way.

Lake Conjola – On the lake of the same name, this sleepy little town is a short detour from the highway and a great place to grab a coffee and stretch your legs with a walk along the lake front.

Milton – A little further south on the highway is the historic town of Milton which is packed with art galleries, antiques and, surprisingly for the location, fine dining restaurants. Grab a treat from the Heritage Bakery at the very least.

Mollymook – Popular holiday spot for families in summer, I love the beach here which is patrolled during summer and great for a swim or surf. The town also has some great beach cafes and fish and chip shops, so this could be a good place to grab a late breakfast or lunch.

Pretty Beach in the Murramarang National Park – Taking the Bawley Point turn off from the highway, this slightly longer detour is worth it for the stunning and secluded beach you’ll find at the end, Pretty Beach. From Pretty Beach there are lots of walks you can do, keeping your eye out for kangaroos in the grass. Also a great spot for a picnic.

What to See & Do in Batemans Bay

Arriving in Batemans Bay will be the start of your adventures in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. Famous for amazing beaches and waterways perfect for outdoor activities and food, incredible locally sourced food. The countryside throughout the whole region is rolling hills with grazing cows on the right as you head south and aqua blue ocean on the left.

Oysters! – The Clyde River which runs right through Batemans Bay is home to plenty of oyster leases meaning an abundance of local oysters for you to eat. My favourite spot to grab and oyster is The Oyster Shed on Wray St where you will get the freshest oysters served either on the deck over looking the river or for takeaway.

Eat oysters at The Oyster Shed - The Trusted Traveller

Mogo – 10 minutes south of Batemans Bay is the tiny town of Mogo. The street is lined with quaint antique and crafty stores as well as a few great places to grab a bite to eat, maybe even a locally made cake. While in Mogo, check out the zoo there which has a great reputation for the protection of endangered species, you can even feed a giraffe!

Mogo - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Hit the Beach – There are lots of beaches around Batemans Bay. My favourite would have to be McKenzies Beach in Malua Bay, just south of town on the coastal tourist drive. Its less crowded and has beautiful semi enclosed surrounding cliffs.

McKenzies Beach, Malua Bay - The Trusted Traveller

Mossy Point – On the coastal tourist drive south of Batemans Bay is this lovely little coastal township where the Tomago River meets the sea. Down by the river mouth you can hire a kayak and paddle up the river spotting sting rays as they glide under the kayak. It is pristine beauty at its best.

Kayaking at Mossy Point - The Trusted Traveller

Durras Discovery Trail – Just north of Batemans Bay off the highway is the southern part of the Murramarang National Park where you will find this 1.5km loop walk through the rainforest. It is a great escape from the beaches in summer with temperatures generally lower in the rainforest.

Where to Stay in Batemans Bay

Budget – Batemans Bay Holiday Park & YHA

Mid-Range – Clyde View Holiday Park

Luxury – Bay Breeze Boutique Motel

Days 9 to 11 – Batemans Bay to Narooma

Batemans Bay to Narooma Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

The next stop is what I think to be one of the best places to visit on the NSW South Coast, Narooma. Around an hours drive from Batemans Bay to Narooma with more stunning countryside and coastal towns to explore along the way. You could easily have a late start today, however make sure you allow enough time to check out some of these spots along the way.

Moruya Heads – A sleepy coastal town with great Tuesday local farmers markets and beautiful views where the Moruya River meets the sea.

Sage Farmers Market - The Trusted Traveller

Coila Prawns – If you love prawns, a stop at the service station on the highway here will allow you to buy some of the freshest prawns you can get. These are not just any prawns though, they are Coila Lake prawns which are small, sweet and delicious, with the prawns completing their entire lifestyle in enclosed waters, which is rare.

Tuross Head – Another lovely sleepy town along the coast and probably one of my favourites. There’s a great short tourist drive you can do around Tuross Head if you don’t have much time here. It takes in all the best spots around town including some lovely lookout spots.

Tuross Beach, Tuross Head - The Trusted Traveller

Bodalla Dairy Shed – Cheese and dairy lovers will be in heaven in this place. Here you can taste and buy locallly made dairy products including the Bodalla Cheese Company. I especially like their saltbush cheese for something different and don’t forget to grab a deliciously fresh milkshake for the road.

Cheese Tasting in the Bodalla Dairy Shed - The Trusted Traveller

Dalmeny Drive Detour – Just before arriving in Narooma, you can turn off the highway and continue the rest of the way along the coastal Dalmeny Road for beautiful beaches and coastal views. There is also a coastal walking path which you can walk part of to stretch your legs after the drive.

What to See & Do in Narooma

Narooma is gateway to some of the best beaches, snorkeling and wildlife on the NSW South Coast. Set on the Wagonga Inlet, it is a popular place for family holidays, fishing and lazy days at the beach.

Hit the Beach – Surf Beach right in the heart of Narooma is the most popular beach in the area and rightly so. The water is crystal clear, the sand pristine and it is patrolled all throughout summer making it great for swimmers and surfers. It is also home to the Glasshouse Rock formations, great for exploring at low tide.

Surf Beach at Narooma - The Trusted Traveller

Montague Island – Located just 9 km off the coast of Narooma is this nature lover’s paradise. It is home to a famous lighthouse as well as many animal species such as the little penguins, seals and sea birds. You can visit the island on a guided tour at various times throughout the year.

Swimming with Seals on Montague Island - The Trusted Traveller

Mill Bay Boardwalk – A short 350m boardwalk around Mill Bay is the perfect way to start the day off when visiting Narooma. Locals and visitors a like take this walk to see stingrays feeding and take in the beautiful surrounds.

Mystery Bay to 1080 Beach Walk – This moderate 5 km return walk through the bush also has the option of a beach walk return when tides are right. The walk is located just a 10 minute drive south of Narooma.

Gulaga Walk, Mt Dromadery – A little further south of Narooma, this walk is a lot tougher than those mentioned above and is good for those who have good physical fitness and are looking for a challenge. It is 14km return taking around five hours to complete with the majority of the walk heading straight up to the top of this extinct volcano.

Where to Stay in Narooma

Budget – Coastal Comfort Motel

Mid-Range – Narooma Palms Holiday Apartments

Luxury – Top of Town Motor Inn

Days 12 to 14 – Narooma to Merimbula

Narooma to Merimbula Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

The final leg of this NSW South Coast itinerary takes you further south to the town of Merimbula and part of the spectacular Sapphire Coast. There are two routes you can take, the first is just to head straight down the highway in about an hour and a quarter through the countryside or you can take the more scenic coastal route in just under two hours stopping at scenic coastal towns along the way.

Tilba Tilba – Similar to Mogo, this historic little town is home to some quaint little galleries and antique shops as well as cafes selling local produce.

Tilba - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Camel Rock – One of the oldest rocks known in NSW. Access to the beach of the same name is via the car park and take a walk along the beach to see the rock which is, as the name says, shaped like a camel.

Camel Rock - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Bermagui Pacific Drive – A short drive around this coastal town where you can visit Dickinson Point for spectacular ocean views or take a dip in the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool that shines sapphire colour on a sunny day.

Bermagui - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Tathra – Head into this sleepy fishing town to walk out on the famous pier and grab some fish and chips while enjoying the peace and lovely views.

Tathra - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Merimbula

The heart of the Sapphire Coast, Merimbula is a lively coastal village surrounded by pristine marine and national parks. There is an abundance of things to see and do for those who love being outdoors and lots to keep the foodies happy too.

Ben Boyd National Park – Named after entrepreneur, Ben Boyd, the park was first established in 1973 and encompasses an area of over 10,000 hectares. It’s the perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers to explore with plenty of excellent walking tracks, interesting geological features and structures, beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot wildlife. You could easily spend a day or more exploring the park.

Enjoy the Beaches – Right in the heart of town you will find great beaches to relax and enjoy some water sports. For something a bit quieter, head further south to Pambula or Eden.

Haycock Point Beach- The Trusted Traveller

More Oysters! – If you haven’t had your fill of this delicious morsels yet then you are in the right place. Pambula oysters are among some of the best in Australia. While you can buy them all over the region fresh, it doesn’t come fresher than joining Sponge on his Magical Oyster Tour around his Pambula River oyster leases. He will even pull an oyster fresh from the water for you to try. Read more about my tour experience with Sponge here .

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - The Trusted Traveller

Whale Watching – From September to November each year humpback whales can be seen off the Sapphire Coast making their way south to Antarctica for the summer. There are of course lots of places where you can spot them from the shore but the best way to get up close to these incredible creatures is on cruise.

Take a Walk – There a many great walks around the Sapphire Coast for all fitness levels:

Merimbula Boardwalk that starts from right in the heart of Merimbula and follows the water’s edge for 3.4 km to Lakeview Drive;
Eden Boardwalk takes you around Curalo Lake and along Aslings Beach for about 6km; and
Mt Imlay is a challenging half day walk to the summit is 6 km of steep track that requires a bit of rock climbing and scrambling. Your efforts are rewarded at the top with nice views of the surrounding area.

Where to Stay in Merimbula

Budget – Ocean View Motor Inn

Mid-Range – Seashells Apartments

Luxury – Albacore Apartments

Getting Back to Sydney

You have a few options to get back to Sydney once your NSW South Coast road trip is over.

The quickest way is the inland route via the Snowy Mountains , Canberra and the Southern Highlands . If you have a few more days to spare on your holiday, you can make a few stops along the way in these three regions. Driving straight without stops, this drive will take about five to six hours.

Alternatively, you can just head straight back up the Pacific Highway the way you came. This drive will take you a little over six hours.

Continuing to Melbourne

Another option if you have a lot of extra time is to continue along the coast into Victoria and onto Melbourne .

There are lots of places to explore on this route and you could easily spend another week or two on your road trip.

Visit sleepy Mallacoota, explore the Gippsland Lakes and take in some of the most untouched national parks in the region.

Check out this Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route) for more ideas on where to stop and stay.

Over to you!

Which part of this NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary are you most looking forward to exploring?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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4 outback road trip itineraries to Broken Hill

Broken hill’s heritage, landscape and art scene lure travellers deep into nsw’s outback. make the journey as fun as the destination with these four road trips that promise gourmet, culture and nature experiences en route..

Destination NSW

Take a culture trip from Sydney

Let excitement build for a Broken Hill adventure as you meander through a hit-list of NSW’s most fascinating inland towns.

Exiting Sydney in a westerly direction and cruising through Blue Mountains ’ misty forests, start your itinerary by slipping off the Great Western Highway at Bathurst . Explore Australia’s oldest inland European settlement that’s gilt with gold rush history, charged with motor sports prestige and set against the backdrop of Mount Panorama. While here, take a tour of the grand Abercrombie House and stop by celebrity chef Matt Moran’s The Rockley Pub for a fortifying meal.

Mount Panorama/Wahluu Track , Bathurst

Moving ever westward, gourmands will enjoy a pause at Orange , a charming country hub and the centre of cool climate wines. Sip and dine at the likes of Charred Kitchen and Bar and Printhie Wines , or take a Country Food Trails tour for a concise itinerary of attractions. Next up is Dubbo , where a visit to the acclaimed, open plains Taronga Western Plains Zoo feels like driving through a savannah. You can even bed down amid the calls of the wild at the onsite Zoofari Lodge.

Zoofari Lodge, Taronga Western Plains Zoo - Dubbo

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo - Credit: Rick Stevens | Western Plains Zoo

No road trip along the Great Western Highway can be considered complete without a selfie with the Big Bogan at Nyngan , a statue that looks exactly how it sounds. Then continue onto Wilcannia and take a detour to White Cliffs to join the Red Earth Opal Mine Tour or look for emus at Paroo-Darling National Park before driving the final two hours to the Silver City.

Red Earth Opal Mine Tour with Graeme Dowton, White Cliffs

> Sydney to Broken Hill road trip map

Wine & dine your way from Canberra

A trip to Broken Hill via Canberra offers plenty of delights for food-lovers: the route is blessed with fertile wine country and welcoming country towns that are well-known as food destinations.

Just 30 minutes from Canberra, Murrumbateman is a picturesque agrarian region populated with boutique, cool climate wineries – check out iconic vineyards like Clonakilla and Helm . Stock up on road-trip snacks at Murrumbateman Chocolate Co and stay the night in the stylish Abode .

Clonakilla Wines vineyard in Murrumbateman

From there take the road to Gundagai, making sure to stop at adorable Jugiong’s Sir George for a produce-driven meal, fresh baked goods and excellent wine. If you partake a little too robustly in the latter, stay the night at the chic accommodation, otherwise, carry on to the spa at the hilltop EcoCabin at Kimo Estate .

Sweeney's Eco Hut at Kimo Estate

The next day, head to Wagga Wagga , where you can cook up your own feast at the Food I Am Cooking School . Here you can also learn about 60,000 years of living Wiradjuri culture on a half-day tour with Bundyi Aboriginal Cultural Knowledge – slow down and dive deeper into traditional bush tucker, language, cultural tools and significant sites. On the road again, pause at Narrandera to admire the Water Tower Art Trail , before camping in the bush at Wilcannia’s picturesque Warrawong on the Darling ahead of your next-day arrival to Broken Hill.

Food I Am in Wagga Wagga, Country NSW

> Canberra to Broken Hill road trip map

A country escape from southern Australia

If you’re travelling up from Adelaide or Melbourne, your route to Broken Hill will meander through rough-hewn country gems, vast plains and outback landscapes.

Make your first stop at the riverside town of Wentworth , where you can make a juicy stop at Mourquong’s Orange World for a fruitful tour and refreshment at this citrus farm. Glamp the night at one of the luxe safari tents at Outback Almonds before spending the next day touring shifting sands at Perry Sandhills and admiring outback flora at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens.

Perry Sandhills in Wentworth - Credit: Tyson Mayr

The next day, if you’ve got a 4WD and keen to tackle dirt roads, check out the otherworldly rock formations of Mungo National Park . Revel in the magnificence of this incredible part of Australia, where you can camp, hike, take a self-drive tour, and explore the Walls of China before making your way to Menindee. The first-established town on the Darling River, here you can set out onto the water at sunset with River Lady Tours . Enjoy an ice-cold beer at Historical Maidens Hotel before retreating to a nearby campsite to gaze up at the night sky as prepare for your arrival to Broken Hill.

Menindee River Lady Cruise - Broken Hill - Outback NSW

Menindee River Lady Tour

> Adelaide to Broken Hill road trip map > Melbourne to Broken Hill road trip map

Follow an explorer’s footsteps (and a sculpture trail) from Broken Hill

When Captain Charles Sturt set off on an expedition through Outback NSW in search of Australia’s mysterious ‘inland sea’ in 1844, he brought with him 15 men, 11 horses, 200 sheep and even a boat in tow.

You can follow his journey through Corner Country – though much more comfortably in your car or caravan – along part of the Sturt’s Steps Touring Route north of Broken Hill, which now features a sculpture trail at several towns and localities along the way.

Emus at Sturt National Park - Tibooburra

Emus in Sturt National Park , Corner Country

Set off along the Silver City Highway for Packsaddle. Make a pit stop at the Packsaddle Roadhouse , and take in Ian Marr’s engraved stone sculpture just next door. In Milparinka , you’ll find incredible artworks by Broken Hill artists Gritta Walker, Bonnie Quayle and Jodi Daley. A series of immersive museum complexes has been built among the historic original buildings, and The Albert Hotel , which has been trading since 1882, is a must-stop for lunch and a pint.

Packsaddle Roadhouse - Credit: Jason King

Further on is the gold rush town of Tibooburra , where you can see a replica of Sturt’s upturned boat as he searched for the elusive ‘inland sea’. You might choose to spend the night at the Tibooburra Hotel or Family Hotel , both are more than 100 years old, and at the latter, you’ll find famed (and some cheeky!) murals by Russell Drysdale and Clifton Pugh. Be sure to check out the iconic town sign and camel sculpture.

Big wire bilby sculpture - Credit: Jason King

Further north in Sturt National Park , see the historic dingo fence, and the enormous wire bandicoot sculpture that honours the protected Australian species, and Sturt’s former refuge at Fort Grey campground . Take a slight (by outback standards) 30-minute detour to visit Cameron Corner and the iconic Corner Store pub; check out the big wire bilby sculpture as you leave NSW; and stand at the meeting point of the New South Wales, Queensland and South Australian borders.

> Corner Country road trip map

Get there quicker…

While road-tripping to Broken Hill is part of the adventure, if you’re eager to arrive quickly, you can simply fly to Broken Hill Airport. It’s a two-hour flight from Sydney or just over an hour from Adelaide. Or hop on the Outback Xplorer Train from Sydney; the journey takes 13 hours, but with no driving you can sit back and relax the whole way there.

Couple stepping back into time at Bells Milk Bar in Broken Hill, Outback NSW

When you arrive…

Exterior view of the John Dynon Gallery at Silverton in Broken Hill, Outback NSW

Discover the creative soul of Broken Hill

Couple visiting the The Line of Lode Memorial in Broken Hill, Outback NSW

The must-see heritage icons of Broken Hill

The Living Desert Sculptures, Broken Hill

3-day itinerary in Broken Hill for art & culture

The best tours in Broken Hill & surrounds

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An 8-day road trip itinerary along the NSW South Coast

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

31 October 2023

Plot a course around the South Coast of NSW with our itinerary of must-dos.

Book some annual leave, throw your bags, kids and dogs in the car and follow our itinerary around the stunning NSW South Coast. Just remember to pack light, as you will want to stock up on artisan produce during the course of your leisurely road trip.

Day one: Sydney to Jervis Bay (drive time: three hours, 20 minutes)

This road trip loop begins in Sydney to Jervis Bay . But if you’re travelling south to north, you could easily pivot this itinerary around Eden. The stunning Shoalhaven town of Jervis Bay is a playground comprising crystalline waters and white sands.

The first thing you need to note when visiting Jervis Bay is how to pronounce it: it’s JERvis, not Jarvis. When you mention Jervis Bay, many Australians recall the spectacular white sand and turquoise waters of Hyams Beach. But Jervis Bay is actually a huge marine park with 16 beaches. It’s also a haven for bottlenose dolphins, the northernmost fur seal colony in Australia, and fairy penguins, making it one of the best places in the country for wildlife experiences . It’s what makes the region extra special.

Swim with the seals in Jervis Bay.

Fringed by Booderee National Park and Jervis Bay Marine Park, the region is a veritable paradise for nature lovers, surfers and – from May to October – whale watchers who come to see the whales come into the bay to rest and play. You can’t possibly do it all in one trip, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top 10 things to do and one of the standout options is a self-guided trail that will take you from Flamin’ Galah Brewing Company to Jervis Bay Brewing Co. where hop heads can pick up a few different styles of ale and lager to take home.

Different beer varieties, Jervis Bay Brewing Company, NSW Australia

Grab yourself a pint at Jervis Bay Brewing Co.

Whether you’re keen for casual frolicking or serious underwater adventure, the dazzling waters off the coast of Jervis Bay beckon: head to the marine park and book yourself in for a snorkel or dive session with Woebegone Freedive .

When all that saltwater action has worked up a ravenous hunger, head to the Huskisson Hotel for good, coastal pub fare or refuel with an Aussie-style burger and milkshake at The Cooked Goose on Hyams Beach, one of many top spots to eat in Jervis Bay .

There are a number of great Jervis Bay accommodation options, but to start your trip on a luxe note spend a night or two at Paperbark Camp. Here, you can truly appreciate the unique importance of your bushland surrounds in the Deluxe Plus Safari Tents which are perfect for family and friends travelling together as they can accommodate up to four people.

Paperbark Camp has five swish Deluxe Plus safari tents to add to its luxe offering.

You can also immerse yourself in the coastal experience at Bangalay Luxury Villas , Shoalhaven Heads. For something altogether more casual, book a tiny cabin at Huskisson’s Holiday Haven White Sands .

Dine by the pool at Bangalay Luxury Villas.

For families on a budget, head to the old-school Green Patch campsite in Jervis Bay, which is a short stroll away from Green Patch Beach and a protected, picturesque lagoon set within Booderee National Park. The Jervis Bay Holiday Park , which is set right on the river, is very family-friendly and you can pitch a tent or park your caravan on one of the powered or unpowered sites.

You can find more Jervis Bay accommodation options here.

Day two: Jervis Bay to Milton (one hour), then Milton to Batemans Bay (one hour)

After breakfast, pick up a grab-and-go option from Bangalay Dining to enjoy at your final destination: beautiful Batemans Bay. But relax and take it easy; there’s no hurry to get there. It is, after all, about the journey, so rise early and thread your way through the historic village of Milton, enjoying a stroll and stopping for coffee and cake at Small Town Food & Wine .

Navigate your way to the hills behind Milton for lunch and you’ll be rewarded with a wine-and-dine experience in the hinterland at picturesque Cupitt’s Estate . We do recommend, however, that you have the ‘designated driver conversation’ before you start your meal.

Once you’re suitably fed and quenched, it’s just an hour’s drive to Batemans Bay, where there’s plenty to see and do. Do it right and time this leg so as to arrive for a restorative afternoon swim. Make a note to return to the property without the kids to stay in the luxury new pods. And don’t leave before picking up more provisions from Cupitt’s Estate, home to a fromagerie, brewery and winery.

Enjoy a tasting at Cupitt’s Estate winery.

Make sure you build in some time to sample at least one of the many culinary gems dotted around Milton and the neighbouring towns of Mollymook and Ulladulla.

This area is well-endowed with excellent eateries, from the sleek and polished Rick Stein at Bannisters and Tallwood in Mollymook to Milton’s inviting Harvest Bar and Ulladulla’s Maverick Coffee.

You can also treat your tastebuds to lunch at The Ruse overlooking Ulladulla Harbour.

Inside the sleek and polished Rick Stein at Bannisters.

The next leg of the South Coast NSW itinerary steers visitors into Batemans Bay for the night. But if you’re altogether captivated by Milton and its surroundings, you can opt to bed down at nearby Surfside Cudmirrah Beach .

If you are continuing on, however, there’s a good chance you’ll arrive late in Batemans Bay. Know that when you do turn up, you’ll be warmly greeted at The Esplanade , a boutique hotel where you’ll likely want to add a second night.

But what are road trips, if not flexible, right? You can also plump for a few nights at Pebbly Beach Escapes , just a 20-minute drive away in magical Murramarang National Park. The newly renovated Bay Breeze Motel is another boutique option located on the waterfront in Batemans Bay.

Building facade, The Esplanade, NSW Australia

Be greeted warmly at the boutique hotel, The Esplanade.

Day three and four: Batemans Bay to Bermagui (one hour and 25 minutes)

Before you put tyre to bitumen on the Bay to Bermagui leg, we strongly suggest you spend a good portion of the day exploring this country town in the heart of Australia’s Oyster Coast.

Batemans Bay

You might choose to do so by bike and pedal your way along the Batemans Bay cycleway, or perhaps you will decide to paddle along as part of a kayak tour with Bay and Beyond in the gentle waters of the Batemans Bay Marine Park.

Bay and Beyond Sea Kayak Tours, NSW Australia

Join the kayak tour by Bay and Beyond.

Be sure to block out some beach time at Mossy Point, which is often overlooked by visitors travelling along George Bass Drive. Stop off at the Mossy Point Cafe for coffee and healthy food options. Mossy Point is located smack-bang between the pristine Tomaga River and Candlagan Creek and one of the best ways to explore the coastal village is via kayak with Region X . You can also cycle all the way from Candlagen Beach to South Broulee.

Don’t forget to grab yourself a cuppa at Mossy Cafe.

Before setting off bound for Bermagui, head to the Oyster Shed on Wray St to pick up a cheeky dozen. Foodies will love the fact they can also arrive at the Oyster Shed by paddling along the Clyde River with Region X. You can also go for a twilight seafood cruise on the Clyde/Bhundoo onboard the MV Merinda , operated by the Innes family, long-term South Coast locals.

Continue onto Bermagui on the stunning Sapphire Coast. This picturesque harbour town is well known for its impossibly fresh seafood and deep-sea game fishing. While you may not be here to throw a line out, you can certainly indulge in the catch of the day at the Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf .

The traditional owners of the land around Tilba are the Yuin people and Gulaga is the sacred mother mountain of the region. After European settlement, the region’s rich volcanic soil lured dairy farmers and this industry is still evident at makers such as Tilba Real Dairy . You can also enjoy artisan produce at the famous heritage-listed Dromedary Hotel .

Welcome to Batemans Bay.

If you’re travelling with children, we advise you swing through historic Mogo and pay a visit to Mogo Zoo before continuing onto Bermagui. There’s also a Rock Platform Discovery Walk near Depot Beach along the intertidal zone in Batemans Bay Marine Park where you can spot colourful crabs walking sideways to their homes in the rock pools. For parents with teens, there are quality points and beach breaks dotted between Mollymook and Batemans Bay.

Order some meals online from Eastwoods Deli & Cooking School , pop into the Camel Rock Brewery Bar & Grill for woodfired pizzas and pints, and enjoy fine dining on the grounds of Mimosa Winery in the heart of the Sapphire Coast. Make sure you restock your picnic hamper with bakery items from Il Passaggio and Honorbread.

Plate of Oysters, Il Passagio, Bermagui Fisherman's Wharf, NSW Australia

Try the fresh oysters from Il Passagio at Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf.

If you choose to drive to Bermagui via Bega, you can enjoy the South Coast’s award-winning premium gin experience.

Although the name implies that the gin is made in Eden, North of Eden distillery and cellar door is actually located closer to Bega. North of Eden Gin runs gin-making classes – a must for an interactive experience in the region – and bookings are essential.

Chelsea sidecar, North of Eden Distillery, NSW Australia

Learn how to make a variety of cocktails with North of Eden Distillery.

Buy some local oysters from the iconic East Lynne Store roadhouse and enjoy a seafood feast by the pool at The Anchorage Bermagui before retiring to your self-contained apartment.

Enjoy a barbecue and retreat to your room at The Anchorage Bermagui.

Oakleigh Farm Cottages is half an hour’s drive from Bermagui and another family-friendly option for accommodation on the Eurobodalla South Coast of NSW. You can also bunker down at Mimosa Wines farmhouse, which sleeps nine guests – perfect for a few families or group of friends – or nestle down in Narooma at the Bermagui Beach Hotel, which has great food and magic views.

Other accommodation options in the area include Mystery Bay Cottages, Mountain View Farm at the base of Gulaga and Tilba Lake Camp.

Oakleigh Farm Cottages is another family-friendly option.

Day five: Bermagui to Merimbula (70 minutes) then Merimbula to Eden (25 minutes) and back to Merimbula overnight (25 minutes)

Rise and get the day off to a shining start with some more baked delights from Bermagui’s Honorbread . Once you’ve inhaled some delicious carbs, head to the famous Blue Pool just off Pacific Drive for an invigorating dip. The pool is still worth a visit in the cooler months as it offers a great vantage point for whale-spotting.

Start the day with some baked delights from Bermagui’s Honorbread.

Enjoy Red Brick Coffee and supreme plant-based cuisine at Boneless , a vegetarian café in Bermagui. Enjoy aperitivos at the Harbar overlooking – you guessed it – Bermagui Harbour before finding a place to perch at Il Passaggio, a modern Italian restaurant located at the Fisherman’s Wharf.

It’s time to roll on to the Merimbula Wharf Aquarium and Restaurant where you can feed the fish in this remarkable location that clings to the coastline. Stop in at Toast Pambula for a healthy brunch, then cross the road to the Wild Rye’s Baking Co to pick up some coffee and pastries that will sweeten the short drive to NSW’s most southerly town of Eden.

Do not leave town before dining at Valentina , the hottest (and most sophisticated) ticket in town and sister restaurant Dulcie’s Cottage, which serves craft cocktails and beer alongside local oysters and fries.

Stop in at Toast Pambula for a healthy brunch.

Eden is a town of deep beauty, where the verdant bush virtually tumbles down craggy cliffs and into the sea. It also has a fascinating (and horrific) whaling history, which you can explore at the home-spun Eden Killer Whale Museum and by driving the Killer Whale Trail on the Sapphire Coast.

If you’re wild about whales, plan your visit in November to coincide with the Eden Whale Festival. Keen bird-watchers will appreciate the gentle pace of a kayak tour with Kiah Wilderness Escapes, as guide Jen Robb points out native flora and fauna in the local environment. Grab coffee and a toastie or healthy salad at Sprout, a cafe on the main street of Eden that also puts together epic picnics.

Calm waters, Kayak, Kiah Wilderness Tours, NSW Australia

Appreciate the calm waters through a kayak tour with Kiah Wilderness Escape.

Head to Green Cape Lookout for mesmerising vistas from the jagged peninsula, where you might even spot a fur seal or an albatross. Join a Cat Balou cruise of Twofold Bay for a more in-depth interaction with this coastal beauty or a Wharf to Wharf Walk with Sapphire Coast Guiding Co . Guide Cam Read also conducts e-bike tours of Mimosa Rocks National Park and can tailor a tour of the Sapphire Coast to suit. Foodies can also pinball between oysters, distillers, brewers, makers and bakers along the newly launched Gourmet Coast Trail .

Join a Cat Balou cruise of Twofold Bay.

Keep it low-key at one of the many Airbnbs or camping parks in the area or stay at the newly made-over Hillcrest Merimbula which is luring style-savvy road-trippers with its retro vibes.

The two-storey motel, which is located at the top of Merimbula Drive, faces seaward and has the feel of a lighthouse. It also has a tennis court, pool, and fire pit and can arrange a private sit-down dinner catered to by local chefs.

Outdoor dining, Hillcrest Merimbula, NSW Australia

Keep it low-key at the newly made-over Hillcrest Merimbula.

Day six: The return journey to Sydney from Eden to Tathra (50 minutes) then Tathra to Narooma (70 minutes)

Sadly, it’s time to point the nose of your car homeward. Stop at Sprout Eden for brunch where you can stock up on local smoked seafood from the Eden Smokehouse before your cruise north.

Then it’s onward to Tathra, where you can find yourself an ocean-side picnic spot and decant the smoked goods from your esky, supplemented with some Tathra Oysters you’ve picked up on the way.

Walk along the new Tathra Headland Walk to arrive at the iconic Tathra Wharf, before heading to the Tathra Hotel for lunch. Pividori’s Tathra Beach is the new sister eatery to Blend and a prime spot to perch. Burn off those calories by hiring an e-bike from Tathra Beach & Bike and exploring the region’s 55 kilometres of trails.

After all the exploring, head to the Tathra Hotel for lunch.

The biggest takeaway message when exploring the tiny coastal hamlets on the NSW South Coast is that you will have a multitude of reasons to return. If you didn’t get to Narooma on the way south, head there on your way northward to check out what hotelier Justin Hemmes has contributed to the local amenity.

Hemmes, who owns a coastal homestead nearby, has given a very considered zhoozing to the tiki-style Quarterdeck pub and cocktail bar, The Inlet next door and the 17-room The Whale Inn .

Tiki Style Cocktails, Quarterdeck, NSW Australia

Help yourself to some tiki style cocktails at Quarterdeck.

Believe the Narooma rumours: Hemmes has done a wonderful job of reimagining all three properties, which are still a work in progress. In taking that slowly-slowly approach, Hemmes is being led by the community and giving them what they need and want.

Take a tour out to Montague Island with Montague Island Adventures where you can snorkel with the seals, take a penguin tour and enjoy hearing the history of the island with a National Parks & Wildlife Guide. Fisherfolk should also factor in an offshore adventure with Charter Fish Narooma.

Landscapes at Tilba Valley Winery and Alehouse

The clear waters of Narooma in the Eurobodalla region invite swimmers, surfers, snorkellers and divers into its pristine depths. But if you have the time, a must-visit itinerary item is a day trip to Montague Island with Montague Island Adventures . Here, you’ll find incredible sea life, birdlife (including penguins) and a fur seal colony, all just nine kilometres from Narooma.

Hire an e-bike from Southbound Escapes and burn off some of those Quarterdeck calories on your way to the quirky food van known as The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter , located overlooking the Coxon family’s oyster lease on the banks of Wagonga Inlet.

Beer nerds will also appreciate craft beer and tacos and live music on offer at Big Niles Brewery , another noteworthy Narooma operation run by Cam White, a former pro BMX rider turned brewer.

Montague Island is practically begging for a day trip.

As aforementioned, The Whale Inn was snapped up by Justin Hemmes in 2021. And the bar tsar, who calls Narooma home for much of the year, has built on the previous owners’ vision for a destination restaurant with rooms. Check into The Whale Inn before taking a short drive to Tilba for a lazy afternoon at the Tilba Valley Winery and Alehouse.

If you have time, take a side trip to explore Cobargo, Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba, where lunch at the Dromedary Hotel is a must. Reserve a table at The Whale Inn for dinner so you can enjoy some Merivale magic.

You will also enjoy views over Montague Island from your room at the Amooran Apartments just opposite the cliff-top Narooma Golf Course.

Bed down beachside at the adorable Mystery Bay Cottages, where you have your own, private four-star cottage set on a beachfront 12-hectare property or step it up a notch again and treat yourself to a night in a converted barn studio at Tilba Lake House , set against the sacred Mount Gulaga.

For something a little more low-key and family-friendly, try Big4 Narooma East’s Holiday Park and Tathra Beach House Apartments .

Have a restful stay at the adorable Mystery Bay Cottages.

Day seven: Narooma to Kiama (three hours, four minutes)

Today is the day you will be making your way from Narooma to pretty Kiama. Enjoy a pop-up breakfast picnic on the shores of Wagonga Inlet via Southbound Escapes or visit the takeaway window at Mr Bold Catering Co. in the industrial area of Narooma to stock up before you set off. Mr Bold Catering takes pre-orders of local grazing platters on Wednesday afternoons with a rotating roster of heat-and-eat meals that you can enjoy at your local accommodation. You can also pre-order a picnic platter and cocktails or the full dinner party feast.

Head down for an afternoon surf and catch this breathtaking sunset in Kiama.

When you do arrive in the coastal village of Kiama, you must take a tour of those breath-snatching blowholes before settling into the laidback-luxe vibes at Diggies at Blowhole Point for a well-rounded afternoon of good eats and cooling cocktails.

Laidback-luxe vibes at Diggies.

Still hungry? Head to The Hungry Monkey and The Brooding Italian for burgers. Miss Arda is the sister venue of Otis Deli , both opened by chef Emily Herbert (the former head chef under Yotam Ottolenghi at Ottolenghi Belgravia in the UK).

The Kiama Coastal Walk is a 20-kilometre track that curls gently from Minnamurra River to Gerringong’s Werri Werri Beach. For such a staggeringly beautiful coast-fringed walk, it’s remarkable how under-the-radar this experience is. You needn’t do it all; simply choose the section that suits you best and be entirely captivated by this special place.

See views of Werri Werri Beach on this staggeringly beautiful coast-fringed walk.

Kiama has a sparkling new boutique hotel. Complete with 32 stylish rooms, a pool, and coffee dispensed from a ‘Kombi’, Nova Kiama will bring your road trip to a well-appointed end.

Room interior, Nova Kiama, NSW Australia

Nova Kiama will bring your road trip to a well-appointed end.

Day eight: Kiama to Sydney (one hour, 42 minutes)

It’s time for the final leg of your NSW South Coast escape. You came, you spent money, and you’ve left these communities in slightly better shape than before your visit. There’s no doubt you’re also feeling restored by this enriching experience punctuated by clear waters, astounding wildlife and friendly locals. This is what we call mutually beneficial tourism. Well played, travellers.

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Best Road Trips from Sydney (Itinerary Ideas)

Car drives over sea cliff bridge on a Sydney road trip

18 March, 2022

Crystal Egan

This page may contain compensated links. For more information read our disclaimer .

Choose from seven incredible road trips from Sydney, depending on how much time you have.

Our HUGE Sydney road trip guide is complete with all you need to know including drive time between stopovers, where to go, what to see and do, and the best places to camp overnight.

ROAD TRIPS FROM SYDNEY – CONTENTS

❶ Sydney Road Trips Map ❷ Road Trip: Jervis Bay ❸ Road Trip: Melbourne ❹ Road Trip: Kangaroo Valley ❺ Road Trip: Canberra & Snowy Mountains

❻ Road Trip: Blue Mountains ❼ Road Trip: Newcastle & Hunter Valley ❽ Road Trip: Byron Bay ❾ Campervan Hire Tips

We all know there are few better feelings than setting out on the open road with all of the everyday stress of life in your rearview and nothing but possibilities stretching out in front of you as far as the eye can see. From long scenic routes to quirky roadside stops, to quick weekend trips, Sydney drives have endless options for getting out of the city.

Pack a bag, pick a beautiful destination, put on your favourite playlist, and read over our Sydney trip planner. We’ve amassed everything you need to know to enjoy the ultimate trips from Sydney, all tailored to your every whim. Below are all the very best road trips from Sydney, so you can plan your ideal itinerary and hit the ground running (or more like driving).

Where to Hire Vehicles for Sydney Road Trips

There are lots of companies where you can hire a campervan or car in Sydney. I personally like to use Travellers Autobarn for campervan hire. When you hire with TAB, you can pick up your campervan in Sydney, drop them off wherever you want to finish, and the prices are reasonable too!

To read all of my super useful tips on hiring a campervan in Sydney, click this link to jump to the section at the bottom of the article.

Where to go on Sydney Road Trips

You might be wondering where you want to go first on road trips from Sydney, and you can’t really decide just by looking at the map. That’s why we put this Sydney road trip guide together.

Check out our 7 awesome Sydney road trip options here and compare which one suits your time limits and the type of activities you like best.

Map of Road Trips from Sydney

This custom map is split up into coloured sections with our 7 best road trips from Sydney, things to do, sightseeing stops and where to stay for a night or two along the way.

To open and save our road trip maps into your own Google Maps app on your phone, simply tap the small square frame icon on the top right-hand side of the map, when looking at this article from your phone.

The map will automatically save into “Saved” > “Maps” with the title Best Road Trips from Sydney . You can then select an area to download and use offline, ready for any time you don’t have access to mobile data in New Zealand.

Starting your road trip from Sydney? Here are the best things to do in Sydney on a budget

7 Awesome Road Trips from Sydney

Ready to hit the road? We have more than enough road trips around Sydney to keep you busy no matter how long you have in NSW. All you have to do is calculate how much time you have and what you want to see and do the most!

❶ Jervis Bay Road Trip (3-8 days): White sand beaches, water activities, scenic drives ❷ Melbourne Road Trip (1-3 weeks): City to city along the spectacular southern coastline ❸ Kangaroo Valley Road Trip (1-2 days): Stay a couple of days in the rainforest ❹ Canberra/Snowy Mountains Road Trip (5-10 days): Best of country NSW, the ACT and Mt. Kosciuszko ❺ Blue Mountains Road Trip (2-4 days): Explore this famous national park by hiking and adventure sports ❻ Hunter Valley/Newcastle Road Trip (3-10 days): Best of everything in a short time including national parks, coastal cities, and vineyards ❼ Byron Bay Road Trip (7-15 days): The perfect east coast road trip, with a mix of small towns, cities, and hippy getaways

How many days do you have for a road trip from Sydney?

Here are some Sydney road trip ideas based on how long you have for travel.

Weekend road trips from Sydney

Some of your best memories can be made on 2-day trips from Sydney. There are some amazing places you can go for the weekend to get out of the city, without a long drive.

If you can’t get the time off work or just want to travel for a short break, then we recommend short trips from Sydney to Kangaroo Valley or the Blue Mountains , or to either Newcastle or the Hunter Valley , but not both together. The Royal National Park is also one of the best weekend trips from Sydney, especially if you like camping.

You may be able to squeeze in a very quick road trip to Jervis Bay in a weekend but be warned, you’ll feel like you didn’t get enough time there!

3 day trips from Sydney

So you have a long weekend and want to do a 3-day road trip from Sydney? We recommend you take either a road trip to the Blue Mountains , Newcastle , or Jervis Bay . You will be able to fit a few activities in these long weekend road trips from Sydney, but you’ll likely be scheduling in time to return!

7 day road trip from Sydney

If you have time for a 1-week road trip from Sydney, you can do any of the road trips on this list. With 7 days you can thoroughly explore either Newcastle and the Hunter Valley , or Jervis Bay with stopovers on the Grand Pacific Drive , or Canberra and the Snowy Mountains .

You can also do a quick east coast road trip to either Melbourne or Byron Bay , without too many overnight stopovers or side trips.

2 weeks road trip from Sydney

A 14 day Sydney road trip itinerary is the perfect amount of time to do a Sydney to Byron Bay road trip , including a couple of days in Newcastle . This is one of the best NSW road trips for people who want to explore the east coast and rainforests.

You could also combine the Kangaroo Valley , Canberra and the Snowy Mountains , and Jervis Bay road trips, which would take you from coast to country.

2 weeks is also a decent amount of time for a one-way road trip from Sydney to Melbourne , including a couple of nights in Jervis Bay .

Sydney to Jervis Bay Road Trip

Distance Covered: 209 km, 3.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 3 – 8 days in total

● Best road trip from Sydney for pristine white sandy beaches, water activities and nature

Jervis Bay is set along the South Coast and is rightfully known as a crown jewel of NSW. Just a 3 hours drive from Sydney, along a stunning stretch of coastline featuring crystal clear ocean lapping upon some of the whitest sands in the world, Jervis Bay is one of the most delightful short road trips from Sydney on this list.

This dazzling road trip takes you along the Grand Pacific Drive just out of Sydney, starting in the Royal National Park and finishing up in Jervis Bay. It hugs some of the most spectacular coastlines in the country, weaving amongst bush, rainforest, cliffs, and coastal towns.

Like you know when people say it’s about the journey, not the destination? They’re talking about this road trip in particular. It’s well worth the journey as one of the best weekend trips from Sydney.

Stops on the Grand Pacific Drive

The Grand Pacific Drive map starts in the Royal National Park and hugs the scenic coastline through Wollongong, Kiama, and Shellharbour and finishes at Jervis Bay.

There are numerous worthwhile stops along the Grand Pacific Drive to Jervis Bay and you can add as many or little stops as you want, depending on how much time you have and what interests you most.

See the sights of the Royal National Park

Distance Sydney to Royal National Park: 40 km, 1 hr

Suggested Stay: 1 – 2 days

We start this road trip in the Royal National Park, the oldest national park in Australia set on 16,000 ha of lush eucalyptus forests, secluded beaches, pretty picnic grounds and much more! This park is over 100 years old and boasts over 100 km of bushwalking tracks, several beaches, campsites, and even hang gliding.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss in the Royal National Park:

● Wedding Cake Rock is a natural white rock formation that looks exactly as the name suggests ● The beaches of Burning Palms, Marley, and Era ● Hiking to the Figure 8 Pools during low tide and calm waters ● Wattamolla Lagoon and Beach has great walking trails nearby too ● The Coast Track from Bundeena to Otford for bird and whale watching ● The Jibbon Headland Aboriginal engravings

Drive over the Sea Cliff Bridge

Made famous by featuring in numerous car adverts, the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge must be driven over at least once on your road trip from Sydney, preferably more.

We recommend driving over it a couple of times, then parking at either end to get out and walk. From your sidewalk vantage point you can spot where the previous perilous road once was, now crumbling with the dramatic cliff edges. Peer over the edge to try to spot manta rays and sea birds or meander underneath onto the rocky shores below.

Snorkel at a shipwreck in Shellharbour

Distance Royal National Park to Shellharbour: 85 km, 1 hr 40 minutes

Suggested Stay: 1 day

Next, you’ll drop into Shellharbour, a coastal town blessed with a stunning location and its very own surfing reserve at Killalea Beach called “the Farm”.

Snorkel around a shipwrecked American tanker at the secluded bay of Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve. While visiting, make time to follow the indigenous cultural walk to learn about the way Indigenous people connected with the land, movement patterns, diet, resources and tools.

Marvel at coastal rock formations in Kiama

Just 12 minutes south of Shellharbour is the seaside town of Kiama, which boasts unspoilt beaches, lush rolling hills, and a creative and laid back vibe. It has garnered great fountain fame for having one of the largest ocean water blowholes in the world, Kiama Blowhole.

If unusual rock formations are your thing, be sure to stop by Bombo Headland and Cathedral Rocks, a geological site featuring some very religious-looking basalt columns.

Soak up the sun in the Shoalhaven Region

After Kiama, you’ll be entering the Shoalhaven region, which stretches between Berry and Pebbly Beach, covering inland to Kangaroo Valley and Budawang National Park, including Jervis Bay. Visit Shoalhaven Heads for laid-back surf vibes, Shoalhaven River, and great wineries.

If you have the time, drive off the Princes Highway up Turpentine Road to Jerrawangala Lookout for views from Gerringong to Ulladulla. A vantage point once used by indigenous people to send messages. This national park is also full of rare heath frogs, sooty owls and New Holland honeyeaters.

Things to do in Jervis Bay

Distance Shellharbour to Jervis Bay: 91 km, 1 hr 20 minutes

Suggested Stay: 2 – 5 days

Jervis Bay is heralded for its absurdly soft, stark white sands, like the sands of Hyams Beach, and its seriously crystal clear aqua waters, so get ready for some seriously tropical vibes.

There are an array of water activities to partake in, from sailing to paddle boarding, to diving, and is home to migratory whales in May through November, and bottlenose dolphins year-round.

Snorkel or swim the best beaches in Jervis Bay

Get in amongst the turquoise-hues and blinding white sands of the best beaches in Jervis Bay:

● Murrays Beach – In Booderee National Park is especially popular with families, but the smooth glassy crystal-clear waters are not to be missed ● Chinamans Beach – My favourite of all the beaches due to its brilliant white sands without the crowds ● Scottish Rocks in Booderee National Park – Has the best snorkelling of all. I saw two Port Jackson sharks there! ● Hyams Beach – Recognised in the Guinness Book of Records for being the whitest sand beach in the world ● Blenheim Beach – Surrounded by dense sloping bushland and gentle and calming waves

Beach-hop in Booderee National Park

A whole world of natural wonders awaits within the Booderee National Park.

Visit the Hole in the Wall rock formation and take a cool picture before exploring the rock pools around the headland. Murrays Beach is widely considered a crown jewel of the coast due to its calm clear water and lots of great snorkelling! Cave Beach is named for the stunning rock formations you’ll find along the shore and is a popular hot spot to hang ten.

The Botanic Gardens here are so beautiful as well. They’re the only Aboriginal-owned gardens in the entire country and a wander through will teach you all about medical uses for native plants and how to forage. Then you can impress all your friends with all your newfound natural knowledge.

You can also camp in Booderee, which we have talked a bit more about below.

Visit Point Perpendicular Lighthouse

This adorable little landmark is a must-visit while in town. While you can’t go inside a climb to the top offers one of the best vantage points around. It’s such a famous historical fixture of nautical history here and also secretly the best spot for whale watching.

Climb to the lookout 90 meters above sea level and gaze out over the sparkling seas for signs of majestic marine life. We highly recommended stopping here at sunset to get the most out of the view.

Be sure to drop in to Honeymoon Bay on your drive to the lighthouse for great snorkelling or a hike to Silica Cove and the shipwreck on Longnose Point.

See sights from the water a boat tour

The best way to explore Jervis Bay is by a boat tour, and you have quite a few really cool ones to choose from! Because there are so many dolphins within the bay, we recommend hedging your bets on seeing dolphins on one of the other, non-dolphin centric tours so you can really get the most out of your boat tour.

Here are some of the best boat tours to take in Jervis Bay:

● Jervis Bay Passage – See the amazing cliff formations plus Point Perpendicular Lighthouse up close ● Seals and Seacliffs – See seals plus even more cliff formations out on the ocean ● Whale Watching Tour – At the right time of year spot whales as they take refuge in Jervis Bay ● Sea Kayak Tour – Paddle past spectacular beaches with the possibility of seeing sea life up close

Down some street food and craft beer at a brewery

There’s not one, but two, really cool open breweries set in the industrial area near Huskisson, ready for you to savour a local drop while chowing down some grub from the street food stands in the pretty outdoor beer gardens on site.

Jervis Bay Brewing Co. have sustainability at the heart of what they do and create delicious craft beers that bring people and communities closer together. Nearby, you can sip on a tasting paddle while admiring the brew system at Flamin Galah Brewing Co.

Snorkel or dive with sea life

We’ve already established how great Jervis Bay is for observing whales, dolphins, seals, and birdlife. But you might also want to dive under the surface and meet with some residents face-to-face.

With Jervis Bay Dive you can take tours that snorkel with humpback whales, or scuba dive with seals, rays, Port Jackson sharks, and cuttlefish.

Take one of the beautiful walks around the bay

The most famous walk in the area would have to be the White Sands Walk taking you past Blenheim Beach, Greenpatch Beach and Chinamans Beach. Be sure to bring your camera and a swimsuit.

If you like shipwrecks, take the Abraham’s Bosom Walking track to the wreck of S.S. Merimbula, or the more difficult Silica Cove hiking trail from Honeymoon Bay to the shipwreck of the St. Martin de Porres.

Near Gorgeous Murrays Beach, you might also like to take the Governor Head track to the lookout over Bowen Island, where you might be able to catch a glimpse of the fairy penguin colony during breeding season from August to March.

Grand Pacific Drive and Jervis Bay Camping

All the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Sydney to Jervis Bay drive tour and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping.

● Royal National Park Camping: Bonnie Vale Campground (From $34.85 per site as of Feb 2022) – Located near Bundeena this popular riverside campground offers powered and unpowered sites suitable for tents, trailers, and caravans, making it a fantastic place for beach camping south of Sydney.

● Shellharbour: NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park (From $44 for powered sites) A short walk from the village and surrounded by beaches, this park is affordable with all the necessary amenities like WiFi, a kitchen, a swimming pool, and even laundry. There’s a caravan park site, campsite, and cute cabins to rent.

● Jervis Bay Camping Camping: Hidden Creek Campsite (From $40 per site as of Feb 2022) – Nestled in amongst five acres of natural bushland, alongside a peaceful creek, each campsite is uniquely different but every one of them has their own campfire pit. Toilets and hot water are available.

● Booderee National Park Camping: Green Patch Campground ($51 per standard site/night as of Feb 2022) – Located in close proximity to a picturesque lagoon, and surrounded by trees and bushland, sites are available in standard and large sizes and as well as drive-in or walk-in with sheltered BBQ, tables and seating.

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip

Distance Covered: 1,352 km, 18 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 1 – 3 weeks

● Best long Sydney road trip for cities, coastal wilderness, ancient ranges, and native wildlife

A scenic sojourn through NSW and Victoria connects two of the biggest (and best) cities, creating the ultimate Aussie adventure of all the road trips Sydney has to offer.

The road trip Sydney to Melbourne portion via The Coastal Discovery Drive truly captures the heart and spirit of Australia. It includes the Grand Pacific Drive, which we have written about in more detail above , as well as the magnificent coastline of vivid colours.

This Sydney to Melbourne drive will have you stopping in at the blinding-white sands of Jervis Bay , hanging out with kangaroos on the beach in Bateman’s Bay, discovering actual Eden, getting lost in the lush wilderness of Mallacoota and Wilsons Promontory, boating the pristine waterways of the Gippsland Lakes, and welcoming home the fairy penguin colony of Phillip Island.

Stops on the Sydney to Melbourne road trip

The Coastal Discovery Drive is a great route with plenty of sun-soaked beaches to explore or stay between Melbourne and Sydney.

Float in the turquoise-hues of Jervis Bay

Distance Sydney to Jervis Bay : 200 km, 3 hrs

Suggested Stay: 1 – 4 days

A picturesque bay teeming with sea life, with vividly clear water lapping upon soft white sandy shores. Jervis Bay is one of the most special destinations on the East Coast of Australia. Snorkel at Plantation Point, take a whale-watching cruise and enjoy a relaxing respite on the insanely white sandy shores.

This stop along the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is a popular Sydney road trip destination in itself! That’s why we wrote up it’s own Jervis Bay road trip section above. But it’s also a fantastic stop on your coastal drive to Melbourne, so schedule in at least a few days here.

Soak up sun on the soft sands in Mollymook

An hour south of Jervis Bay, you can get even more secluded on Mollymook Beach, a 2 km stretch of sand where you can surf, spot dolphins, or simply slow down and enjoy the endless ocean views. Take a picnic to the grassy knoll behind the beach or savour some of Mollymook’s culinary hotspots.

Savour fresh seafood in Batemans Bay

Distance Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay: 106 km, 1 hr 30 minutes

A 4-hour drive from Sydney, Batemans Bay is a pretty area of the NSW ‘Oyster Coast’. Named after the sheer number of mollusc growers in the region, these expansive waterways make the area popular among adventure-seekers, with tours ranging from glass-bottom kayaking, to e-biking, and oyster tasting.

The Pizza Paddle Sunset Kayak Tour here basically checks all our boxes for tours. Paddling in picturesque mangroves as the sun slowly sinks with a mouthful of a savoury slice is a dream we never knew we had.

If you’re not a tour person, find your favourite water activity from surfing to scuba diving and get to it, finish the day with a meal of fresh oysters.

Also, check out Maloney’s Beach where a local group of kangaroos live, for a picture-perfect Aussie moment.

Discover a natural paradise in Eden

Distance Batemans Bay to Eden: 191 km, 2 hrs 20 minutes

Next on the coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne is Eden, and it’s aptly named at that, set on a hillside overlooking the coast. Comfortably sitting in the middle of the Sapphire Coast, an area famous for uncrowded pristine beaches, ancient landscapes, and untouched national parks, Eden is a natural paradise.

Soak up the sun on a perfect beach, indulge in fresh seafood right from the wharf, or pop into the kitschy yet informative Killer Whale Museum.

Walk the Wilderness Coast in Croajingalong National Park

Distance Eden to Mallacoota: 91 km, 1 hr 10 minutes

Escape civilisation and get as far out in the wilderness as you possibly can, without leaving the coast, in the Croajingalong National Park. This area near Mallacoota, found in far-east Victoria, is home to ancient forests, pristine inlets, picturesque campgrounds, giant sand dunes, abundant wildlife, and the first place on east coast Australia to be seen by James Cook’s Endeavour in 1770.

Do forest walks, bird or bandicoot spotting, kayaking around Tamboon Inlet, visit Point Hicks Lighthouse, or camp at Shipwreck Creek.

Go boating around the inland waterways of Lakes Entrance

Distance Mallacoota to Lakes Entrance: 202 km, 2 hrs 30 minutes

Lakes Entrance, a coastal town in eastern Victoria is known for the Gippsland Lakes, a vast system of inland waterways just waiting for you to explore. Hire your own boat through Riviera Nautic, no boat license is necessary, and discover what this calm waterway has to offer.

The pristine golden sands of 90 Mile Beach, which separates the Gippsland Lakes from the Bass Strait, is the highlight of this area. One of the most natural and unspoilt beaches in the world, take the pedestrian bridge to the beach for an array of water activities, take a pic at the Trinculo Ship Wreck, or just come to ogle the long and slender sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

A great day trip from Lakes Entrance, especially if you’re into stalactites, is a visit to Buchan Caves, which is about an hour’s drive. Carved by an underground river almost 400 million years ago and significant to Gunaikurnai Traditional Owners of the land, the honeycomb cave system draws in visitors with impressive cavern size, limestone formations, pillars, and rim pools.

Take an amphibious boat tour from Wilsons Promontory

Distance Lakes Entrance to Wilsons Promontory: 272 km, 3 hr 20 minutes

Wilsons Promontory is the southernmost tip of Australia’s mainland and one of the most remote places to visit between Melbourne and Sydney. The deserted beaches, woodland trails, dramatic granite outcrops and mountains, and abundant wildlife, like wombats and kangaroos, are just some of the great reasons to include this out-of-the-way stop on your drive from Sydney to Melbourne by car.

Take a seriously unusual amphibious boat tour to prehistoric boulders and Skull Rock – a magnificently weird granite monolith.

This stopover adds an extra hour of drive time to your next stopover to Phillip Island, so skip over it if you don’t have the time to spare.

Welcome fairy penguins home at sunset on Phillip Island

Distance Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island: 131 km, 1 hr 40 minutes

Phillip Island, made famous by its adorable resident fairy penguin colony, is a popular stop on a Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive. Grab tickets for the Evening Penguin Parade at sunset after a day exploring the exciting coastline’s idyllic beaches, sea caves, and fur seal colonies on a cruise.

Things to do in Melbourne

Distance Phillip Island to Melbourne: 142 km, 2 hrs

The next stop is the final destination, and it’s a doozy! Known as the cultural capital there’s no shortage of fun pastimes to partake of in Melbourne. World-famous food, street art, music, and shopping makes up the heart of its notoriously cool scene.

Uncover Melbourne’s oddities

Melbourne is a melting pot of culture and oddities. To get a bit off the beaten path in this unique city, explore the elaborate system of subterranean storm tunnels, see the whimsical Fairies Tree at Fitzroy Gardens, find graffiti art in Union Lane or Hosier Lane, or do one of Melbourne’s many ghost tours .

Check out the beaches

Head to the suburb of St. Kilda to get some sand between your toes and meet some of the special locals. Squeal from cuteness overload at the St. Kilda Pier Penguin Colony. It’s part wildlife park and part beautiful bay, and a lovely way to spend a day soaking up the scenery of Melbourne. Go for sunset and you won’t be disappointed.

Drive 6 km further south and you’ll come across Melbourne’s most colourful beach, Dendy Street Beach, in the affluent suburb of Brighton. Neatly lined upon the shore, colourful Victorian bathing boxes often painted in themes like underwater, or the Australian flag.

On a budget? Do something in Melbourne for free!

There are loads of really cool activities in Melbourne just waiting for you to try. We wrote a whole post on the 10 things to do in Melbourne for free which includes a free walking tour, where to find the best street art, free museum entry, iconic Princes Pier, plus the best markets and gardens.

Where Next? How about a road trip from Melbourne over the Great Ocean Road

Best camping between Sydney and Melbourne

These are the best places to pitch a tent or park a campervan along the Coastal Discovery Route when you drive Sydney to Melbourne.

Whether you’re into bush camping or beach camping, all the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Sydney to Melbourne road trip and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping.

● Beach camping near Batemans Bay: Pebbly Beach Campground ($24.60 per site) Tucked behind the Murramarang National Park forest along the coastline, this is the ultimate place to meet fellow campers and the resident kangaroos.

● Batemans Bay Camping: Batemans Bay Holiday Park ($34 per powered site) They’ve got it all at this holiday park, from deluxe cabins to ensuite caravan sites. There are so many fun extras here for channelling that inner child, like mini-golf, go-karts, and a game room.

● Beach Camping near Eden: Gillards Campground ($24.60 per site) You’ll find this pretty campground nestled between the beach and the bush in Mimosa Rocks National Park, offering opportunities to go surfing, fishing and walking.

● Eden Camping: Ingenia Holiday Park Eden Beachfront ($25 per campsite) They’ve got the best of both worlds, immersed in nature and still super close to all of the coolest sights in the city. Cabins and campsites abound here.

● Croajingolong National Park Camping: Shipwreck Creek Campground (from $13.90 per site) This small, secluded campground is set among tall eucalypt trees a short walk away from the secluded Shipwreck Beach named after the wreck of The Schah (1837), one of Victoria’s oldest shipwrecks. It can accommodate camper vans and tents and is found down a long gravel road.

● Free Camping in Lakes Entrance: Shoreline Drive Campgrounds (Free) 19 unpowered coastal campsites with ready access to the beach. Dogs allowed in some sites on leash. Limited facilities.

● Wilsons Promontory Camping: Tidal River Campground (from $30.20 per site) 484 popular, well-equipped powered and unpowered sites for tent and caravan camping in one of Victoria’s best-loved national parks surrounded by wallabies and wombats.

● Philip Island Camping: NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park (from $46 per night) The ultimate base to explore the best of this idyllic holiday island with unpowered or unpowered sites on grass or mat close to the water.

● Melbourne Camping: The Gums Campground (from $14.70 per unpowered site) For those that prefer the bush, check out the Gums. A campground 65 km from Melbourne centre, it’s cheap, super peaceful, and set up perfectly for avid adventurers with plenty of basic amenities.

Sydney to Kangaroo Valley Road Trip

Distance Covered: 158 km, 2.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 1 – 2 days in total

● Best short road trip from Sydney for a secluded weekend getaway to the bush

Kangaroo Valley has got to be the perfect pick from all the weekend road trips from Sydney. 2 days is the exact amount of time you’ll want to dedicate to this delightful little jaunt away, perfect for a breath of fresh air and “forest-bathing.”

En route the Sydney to Kangaroo Valley drive, be sure to take Moss Vale Road for a lovely and leisurely cruise through the iconically rural surroundings. Visit Fitzroy Falls on the way in or out, and spend the weekend going a little further afield to discover natural swimming holes, art museums or scenic lookouts.

On your way back to Sydney, visit the Bundanon Art Museum then take one last scenic route on the Grand Pacific Drive before going back to city life.

Things to do in Kangaroo Valley

So you need a break from city life and have the urge to be in outdoors, there are loads of nature-centric, foodie things to do in Kangaroo Valley, read on for more.

Eat your way down the Main Street

The charming main street on Moss Vale Road through Kangaroo Valley has a personality all its own. A stroll down reveals some of Kangaroo Valley’s most famous attributes and delicious dining destinations.

The eateries here are some of the best, especially if you have a craving for homemade pies and fudge. Grab a fabulous bite at the General Store or the Friendly Inn and you can see what all the foodie fuss is about.

Walk to the escarpment lookouts at Fitzroy Falls

Head out over the historic Hampden Bridge, a spectacular single-span suspension structure, to find the cascading Fitzroy Falls in Morton Valley National Park.

There are a few bushwalking trails full of cute critters and the highlight, of course, is a dramatic waterfall flowing fast over a rugged cliff wall falling 81 metres down into a verdant valley below.

Kayak under the famous Hampden Bridge

It’s hard not to marvel at the quaint, historic Hampden Bridge, which crosses the Kangaroo River. In the spring and summer, hire a kayak or take a kayak tour starting at the Hampden Bridge to get a different view of the gorgeous scenery.

Wild swimming at Flatrock Waterhole

In Kangaroo Valley we love to take the road less travelled off the beaten path to discover secret wild swimming at idyllic destinations like Flatrock Waterhole. It’s secluded and shrouded in scenery, ideal for a refreshing dip.

Visit Bundanon Art Museum and the Bridge

Embedded in the surrounding natural landscape, the Bundanon Art Museum houses a changing program of contemporary exhibitions and unique cultural experiences, with a focus on Indigenous Australian art.

You’ll also love to take in the breathtaking views from Red Rock Trig or Cambewarra Mountain Lookout on the 35-minute drive between Bundanon and Kangaroo Valley.

Wander the adorable country town of Berry

The adorable hamlet of Berry is another idyllic itinerary item on your country road trip from Sydney. Only a 25-minute drive from Kangaroo Valley, Berry boasts an array of specialty shops full of artisan wares and vintage treasures as well as cute cafes with tasty treats and nearby natural wonders.

Camping in Kangaroo Valley

All the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Kangaroo Valley road trip from Sydney and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping, plus a cheeky Kangaroo Valley free camping option.

● Kangaroo Valley Camping Ground: Holiday Haven (from $24 unpowered sites) The perfect place for a country getaway with campgrounds, self-contained cabins, and bungalow rooms all full of rustic charm. You’ll find firepits, barbecues, a kitchen, WiFi, river access, trails, canoes and kayaks, and an animal farmyard. This holiday park is not taking bookings from 18/3/2022 click the link for details.

● Free Camping in Kangaroo Valley: Bendeela Recreation Area (FREE/$6 booking fee) This is a popular camping and recreation area, so it’s super safe along with being spacious and scenic. It’s a cheap and easy jumping-off point for outdoor adventure. Closed due to flooding from 18/3/2022 click the link for details.

Sydney to Canberra and the Snowy Mountains Road Trip

Distance Covered: 827 km, 11 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 5 – 10 days in total

● Best central NSW road trip for country towns, museums, the ACT, and famous Mount Kosciuszko

The best country drive Sydney has to offer is the classic route to Canberra and the Snowy Mountains. Heading southwest to the national capital has all the makings of the authentic Aussie journey of your dreams, full of delightful surprises all along the way.

It’s easy to spend a few days on the road with this one before arriving in Queanbeyan, the entrance to the dramatic Snowy Mountains.

Stops between Sydney and Canberra

When you road trip Sydney to Canberra, be sure to take it slow and soak up the quaint country towns and scenery along the way.

Marvel at Australia’s largest botanic gardens

A lovely first stop on the Sydney to Canberra road trip is to discover the state’s newest and the nation’s largest botanic gardens, The Australian Botanic Garden Mt Annan.

Explore 416 ha of themed garden areas and natural tracts of endangered vegetation, or have your first road trip coffee at Melaleuca House.

Munch on gourmet food in historic Bowral

Distance Sydney to Bowral: 118 km, 1.5 hrs

As the largest town in the Southern Highlands, historic Bowral is the perfect first overnight stop on your to Canberra road trip from Sydney.

Wander the historic village and Bong Bong Street, stopping in at Gumnut Patisserie for gourmet baked desserts with an Aussie twist, The Milk Factory Gallery, where local art adorns the walls of a former dairy warehouse, and Dirty Janes, an emporium packed-full of curious vintage goods.

Explore Fitzroy Falls and Kangaroo Valley

Distance Bowral to Kangaroo Valley: 40 km, 45 min

Detour to Moss Vale Road for a side quest through the iconically rural surroundings of Kangaroo Valley, a destination we have written about in detail in this post above .

Stopover at Fitzroy Falls for a scenic walk before continuing over historic Hampden Bridge and into the centre of quaint Kangaroo Valley township. Stop for a bite or a coffee here before continuing along the Hume Highway to Goulburn next.

See a giant ram in Goulburn

The drive southwest 1 hour from Bowral to the Southern Tablelands passing national parkland and conservation areas, gorges, rivers and waterfalls. Goulburn, the state’s first inland city, houses Goulburn Historic Waterworks Museum and the Big Merino, a 15.2 metres tall concrete merino ram.

Between Goulburn and Canberra, be sure to also stop in at the Bushranger Hotel, a now heritage-listed hotel named after a shootout in 1865 between bushranger Ben Hall and the town of Collectors only police officer, Constable Samuel Nelson, right outside the hotel.

Swim inside a canyon at Wombeyan Caves

Distance Goulburn to Wombeyan Caves: 76 km, 1 hr 10 mins

Wombeyan Caves is an extensive series of beautiful limestone caves featuring vast caverns adorned with striking and delicate formations in which you can swim, walk, or do a tour of the three different caverns.

Be sure to take a dip in the vast canyon of Mares Forest Creek Canyon, a secret wild swimming spot perfect for adventurous souls.

Wombeyan Caves are about a 1-hour detour away from Goulburn so skip this stop if you don’t have time. We suggest staying overnight at the campground on-site and going for a swim around midday when the sun warms up the cool, refreshing water.

Things to do in Canberra

Distance Goulburn to Canberra: 92 km, 1.5 hr

Suggested Stay: 1 – 3 days

Canberra may not have been very high on your choice of Sydney road trips, but it is a goldmine if you know where to look. Fabulous food, a happening bar scene, excellent coffee, stunning natural surrounds, great shopping, and world-class galleries and museums are what make Canberra an awesome place to spend a few days.

There are plenty of cool tours to take here as well, on everything from brewery tours to building and architecture tours .

Peruse the National Gallery of Australia Sculpture Garden

Once in the cultural haven of Canberra, scope out the National Gallery Sculpture Garden. 30 large scale creations from artists all over the world are dotted around this vast verdant space for an immersive and one-of-a-kind artistic experience.

Visit the The Shine Dome at night

The Shine Dome is a copper-coated, multi-arch modern structure surrounded by a moat. The largest free-standing dome in the country, it’s home to the nation’s foremost scientific society. It’s an even cooler sight when it’s all lit up at night.

Learn through interaction at Questacon

The Questacon National Science and Technology Centre is a hands-on museum unlike any other science museum in the world. Interactively travel from the centre of an earthquake to the heart of a beehive, and all the way to outer space with a visit to Questacon, a place sure to open your mind.

Sit in on parliament in action

Experience Australia’s robust democracy in action on a visit to the Australian Parliament House. You can watch Question Time, see bills being debated, and sit in on committee inquiries as current issues are explored in detail.

Driving Between Canberra and Kosciuszko National Park

Drop in to the charming country town of Queanbeyan

Queanbeyan is a quaint town full of history and hospitality and the ideal antidote to city life in Sydney. A gateway to the Snowy Mountains and Canberra, this charming country town, filled with historic buildings and positioned between the Molonglo and Queanbeyan rivers, is deserving of a stopover on your Canberra road trip.

Of course, a quick detour to soak up the geological wonder that is the Googong Dam Foreshore is recommended, check out the London Bridge Arch here, or just enjoy some bushwalking.

Drive the Alpine Way to Kosciuszko

Starting in Canberra and winding through some of the most unique and dramatic landscapes in the state, the drive along Kosciuszko Alpine Way takes you through lush farmland, into rolling hills, mountain tops, and finally alpine forests.

Things to do in the Snowy Mountains

Distance Canberra to Kosciuszko National Park: 212 km, 3 hrs

Next, stunning vistas await as there’s something ethereal to explore in every season on the Sydney to Snowy Mountains road trip. This rugged range is home to the highest peak in the country, Mount Kosciuszko.

Depending on the season, there are loads of things to do in the Snowy Mountains. This place is made for having a good time. Go skiing or snowboarding at Perisher or Thredbo in winter, or in summer, summit the mountain by hiking or mountain biking, before heading to Lake Jindabyne for a swim and a picnic.

Hike up Mount Kosciuszko

Set out along the old road to Mount Kosciuszko for a day of high altitude adventure. Hike or ride from Charlotte Pass to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko passing weathered snow gums and rock formations on the way. The historic Seamans Hut is a favourite spot to rest or enjoy a picnic surrounded by the beauty of the Snowy Mountains, as you climb to Australia’s highest peak.

Discover lakes, falls, and pools

An icy swim in one of the pristine lakes around the Snowy Mountains is a great way to cool off after a day of adventuring. Lake Jindabyne is the perfect place to take a dip and a picnic, since it’s so big you’ll have plenty of space to yourself.

Head over to Paddy’s River Falls where you can soak up the spray, take a dip in the actual Snowy River from along the beautiful and easy Illawong Track, or peruse the handcrafted sculptures at Lake Crackenback.

Prefer a warmer swim? Drive over to the thermal pool at Yarrangobilly Caves and take a plunge in a much more pleasurable 27ºC.

Camping between Sydney and Canberra/Snowy Mountains

All the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Snowy Mountains and Canberra road trip from Sydney and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping. Many of the campsites in Kosciuszko National Park are free or cheap, making this a great Sydney road trip to do on a budget.

●Camping near Bowral: Berrima River Reserve Campground ($18 per night) These primitive campgrounds are equipped with cold water showers, toilets, BBQ facilities, no power, and not much else. It’s set super close to the Wingecarribee River and is perfect for day trips into Bowral and Kangaroo Valley.

●Free Camping near Bowral: HQ Camp Wingello State Forest (FREE unpowered sites) Tent and campervan sites among the whispering trees, magpies singing and a crackling campfire. Soft pine needles underfoot, plentiful free firewood, and a clean drop toilet. BYO drinking water.

●Camping near Goulburn: Wombeyan Caves Campground (from $24.60 per night) This large campground is perfect for caravans and motor homes, close to all the attractions in the park. There’s a communal kitchen and BBQs, as well as fireplaces and hot showers.

●Canberra Camping: Alivio Tourist Park ($69 for a drive through van site) Right near the city centre, you can stay in villas, cabins, motel rooms, or caravan sites here, plus an abundance of free provisions for all. No tent camping is available here.

●Camping near Canberra: Cotter Campground ($15 per night) On the banks of the beautiful Cotter River, 21 minutes from Canberra, this space caters to a wide range of styles with easy access to the wilderness and amazing facilities.

●Free Camping in Thredbo: Thredbo Diggings – (FREE/$6 booking fee) Open all year round, this site by the Thredbo River is great for anyone wanting to rough it in some majestic surroundings for a small fee. Bring your own water and firewood to this one.

● Free Camping in Kosciuszko National Park: Long Plain Hut Campground (FREE/$6 booking fee) Set up your caravan or pitch your tent with a view of historic Long Plain Hut, nestled among sub-alpine bushland dotted with snow gum and candlebark trees. This campground is close to the Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool.

Sydney to Blue Mountains Road Trip

Distance Covered: 150 km, 2 – 3 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 2 – 4 days in total

● Best long weekend trip from Sydney for mountains, views, hiking, and adventure

The Blue Mountains are a majestic fixture of the Australian terrain and one of the best scenic drives in Sydney. Take the M4 Motorway and Great Western Highway for 1200 km of carved mountains and valleys, thick ancient rainforest, and historic towns only an hour and a half out of Sydney.

Once you reach Lithgow on your Sydney to Blue Mountains drive, toss a coin to figure out the rest! Heads mean north towards Mudgee and Orange, and tails mean east driving back towards Sydney. Both ways are good options.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains

There are endless hiking trails to trek in the Blue Mountains, each with its own specific allure. It’s the perfect short Sydney road trip for anyone seeking a blissful break full of nature. It’s super accessible and an amazing place to camp ensconced within the scenery underneath the starry skies.

Take an all-inclusive tour or pick your own path to discover intricate cave systems, beautiful botanical gardens, relaxing health spas, glow worm caves, eucalyptus forests, magical lookouts, and impressively tall cliff walks all in the pristine wilderness of the Blue Mountains National Park to complete one of the most stunning road trips in NSW.

Explore Katoomba and the Thee Sisters

The most famous Blue Mountains landmark is undoubtedly the Three Sisters. A triad of rock formations that tower high above the rest of the otherworldly surroundings. The Echo Point Lookout is the best (but also most popular) place to admire the beauty of the three sisters.

The Giant Stairway is another awe-inspiring way to see these bad babes up close. You can take this short trail from Echo Point in Katoomba.

Side note – the little village of Katoomba is super cute and also has a quaint railway system that is an excellent addition to your Blue Mountains itinerary.

See a different side of the mountains on an waterfall canyoning tour

If you’ve never tried canyoning before – you must! This canyoning tour is packed with adventure and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping when you hurl yourself over the edges of the mountains that make this part of the world famous.

On a canyoning tour, you will abseil down a series of cliffs and waterfalls, rock jump, and swim in pools, all while admiring the valley views and moss-covered cave walls. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, canyoning in the Blue Mountains is a life-changing experience!

Go hiking on spectacular trails

There’s an abundance of trails to trek, some with the best lookouts for sweeping vistas in the area, or others are great for wild roaming and picture snapping.

The best hikes in the Blue Mountains include:

● The Giant Stairway – Walk out onto the first sister from Katoomba ● Charles Darwin Walk to Wentworth Falls – An easy stroll along a boardwalk and bush track ● Prince Henry Cliff Walk to Leura Cascades – This takes you from Katoomba Cascades over waterfalls and caves, to some of the best views in NSW ● Grand Canyon Circuit Walk to Evans Lookout – A challenging hike through lush rainforest with creek crossings, waterfalls, and rock overhangs ● The Chester Trail to Lincolns Rock – The best sunset vantage point

Drive down to the Megalong Valley for tea and scones

This incredibly scenic drive takes you ascending through thick rainforest and windy roads before opening up into grassy fields surrounded by the spectacular rims of the Blue Mountains. Listen out for lyrebirds, which mimic the sounds of cars, heavy machinery, and even dogs!

Travel past Old Ford Reserve, Six Foot Track crossing and through to Dryridge and Megalong Creek Estates, the boutique vineyards of the valley.

If you’re feeling peckish, or just down for a decent coffee, head over to the Megalong Valley Tea Rooms, for really good home-made scones with jam and cream on one of their beautiful outdoor tables overlooking the valley.

Camping in the Blue Mountains

These are the best places to camp on a Blue Mountains road trip from Sydney. The Blue Mountains City Council also has a great resource page for camping in the Blue Mountains .

● Free Camping in the Blue Mountains: Old Ford Reserve (FREE) This spot in the Megalong Valley offers a more remote and rugged experience. Free camping is allowed in campervans or tents and it’s likely to be the most picturesque place to stay around. Toilets provided but no other facilities.

● Glenbrook/Blue Mountains Camping: Euroka Campground ($24.60 per site) This campsite is for tents only, with a short walk from the parking space. You’ll need to come prepared here, with your own water and firewood. However, there’s plenty of space in scenic surroundings and basic facilities like barbecue facilities and restrooms, and it’s a great place to camp with kangaroos.

Sydney to Newcastle Road Trip Loop

Distance Covered: 470 km, 6.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 3 – 10 days in total

● This short Sydney road trip is the best of everything from the coast, national parks, history, wine tasting, and cities

Just a 2-hour drive from Sydney, a Newcastle road trip is perfect for people who want to see and do something different every day. Explore spectacular beaches on the east coast, a historic road built by convicts, national parks, wine country , and the second-biggest city in NSW.

This is the real deal road trip of all the scenic drives Sydney has to offer. There’s so much to see in between on this Sydney to Newcastle road trip that we think you’ll want to make a lengthier adventure out of it.

Coastal stops between Sydney and Newcastle

Love scenic drives around Sydney? Be sure to include a cruise through the Ku-Ring-Gai National Park plus Tourist Drive 33 on your Sydney to Hunter Valley drive.

Visit the TV-famous Palm Beach

This long 2.3 km-long narrow peninsula was made famous in Home & Away as being their resident fictional beach, Summer Bay . This peninsular has an unbeatable location, with Pittwater to the west, the Pacific Ocean to the east, and Broken Bay to the north at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. Walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for spectacular views of all three.

Hike to beaches in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

A popular day trip from Sydney, the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a spectacular stopover on your way north. Hike to the secluded Resolute Beach, do the Aboriginal Heritage Walk to see the red hands cave, marvel at the dramatic scenery from the lookout, or simply drive through the mesmerising scenery.

Want to explore this area of North Sydney from the water? Search for pretty inlets and secluded beaches yourself by hiring a boat from either Barrenjoey to take into Pittwater Bay, or Akuna Bay to take up the Hawkesbury River (no boat license necessary).

Stay on an island in the Hawkesbury River

Distance Sydney to Brooklyn: 55 km, 1 hr 20 min

This winding 120 km-long river stretches from Yarramundi in the west to Broken Bay near Pittwater in the east. The Hawkesbury River, or Dyarubbin as it’s known to the Darug and Darkinjung people who lived along it, is usually gifted with clear, green waters. Perfect to explore by tinny, ferry, or the Riverboat Postman.

Driving north out of Sydney inevitably means you’ll be crossing the Hawkesbury River at some point. But this lovely area remains somewhat of an undiscovered gem in terms of tourism. You can hire houseboats, stay in a campground, or hire an Airbnb to spend the night on one of the pretty islands like Dangar or Milson Island.

Inland stops between Sydney and Newcastle

Take tourist drive 33 through wollemi national park.

Want to take the road less travelled on your route to Newcastle? The perfect scenic drive on the Sydney to Hunter Valley road trip is to follow Tourist Drive 33 along the historic Convict Trail built in the 1800s, traversing stunning sandstone gorges, razorback ridges, and some of the most stunning NSW countryside.

From Sydney, take the Peats Ridge Road exit on the M1 near Sydney, to Broke in the heart of wine country along the historic Great North Road.

World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is perhaps best known for containing a tree so valuable and ancient that its exact whereabouts are kept a secret. The Wollemi Pine, or the Dinosaur Tree, was thought to have disappeared 100 million years ago and was known only through its fossils. It was discovered alive and well in a gully by a canyoning national park worker in 1994.

Despite not being able to visit the Dinosaur Trees yourself, Wollemi offers a dramatic setting for scenic walks, swimming, canoeing and camping, as well as being the best scenic drive from Sydney to the Hunter Valley.

Wine tasting in the Hunter Valley

Distance Sydney to Hunter Valley via Tourist Drive 33: 264 km, 4 hrs 30 min

The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine-producing region, with vines being first planted in the early 1820s. You could spend pretty much an endless time in Hunter Valley, but just how much wine time you need is really your call.

Obviously, wine tasting is the best thing to do in the Hunter Valley. But did you know you can take a wine-tasting tour of the Hunter Valley wineries from either Newcastle or the Hunter Valley – so you don’t have to drive when you’ve had a few drinks? Get picked up from your hotel and enjoy the day sampling some of Australia’s best wine, food, cheese, chocolate, and spirits.

Prefer to drive yourself around? Here’s a quick list of some of the best boutique wineries to visit in the Hunter Valley:

● Glandore Estate for wine and chocolate pairings ● Oakvale for organic and vegan wines ● De Iulius do a fantastic wine and cheese pairing ● Horner for a small, intimate tasting ● Comyns & Co. for unique, new-age wines ● Audrey Wilkinson is a great place to take gorgeous pictures of the valley and vines

If you need more information, read my article on the 10 best wineries in the Hunter Valley .

Things to do in Newcastle

Distance Sydney to Newcastle: 163 km, 3 hrs

Suggested Stay: 2 – 4 days

The hip harbour city of Newcastle is the second-largest city in NSW, meaning it’s got all the amenities, from a thriving arts scene to happening nightlife to gourmet grub, as well as amazing beaches and rich history as a working-class steel and coal town.

Visit Darby Street for fantastic eats at quirky sidewalk cafes, plus buzzing shops and galleries. Stroll along Honeysuckle foreshore where the mighty Hunter River meets the sea for harbourside restaurants, cafes and bars taking pride-of-place and offering stunning water views.

Walk Bathers Way for stunning ocean views

After the drive from Sydney to Newcastle be sure to make a beeline for Bathers Way to enjoy the scenery. It’s a 6 km long picturesque path that follows along the coast between Merewether Ocean Baths to Nobbys Beach, with endless opportunities for swimming, basking in the sun, and bites paired with a boozy beverage.

Start at Nobbys Head and Finish at Merewether Surfhouse for lunch and cocktails with a view. While you’re wandering, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins chasing waves among surfers offshore and whales during migration (May through November).

Swim at the best beaches

Newcastle is blessed with a bunch of really good beaches, possibly some of the best in NSW. Here are a few of the best beaches in Newcastle:

● Bar Beach – Not as busy as many of the other beaches and has great swimming and surfing ● Nobbys Head – Great for surfing or a walk along the break wall past the lighthouse ● Merewether Beach – Better for surfing than swimming, as it often has powerful waves and riptides ● Newcastle Beach – The busiest beach, perfect to grab a bite and then go for a swim

Take a dip in an ocean bath

Not only does Newcastle have incredible beaches, but it also boasts gorgeous ocean baths. The Bogey Hole in particular has an interesting history, being the oldest ocean pool in Australia. It was originally hand-cut by convicts out of the rock platform for Major James Morisset, the Commandant of Newcastle, to use as his own personal bath.

Nowadays you can snorkel with the resident fish at low tide, or cling onto the chain sides as waves beat over you during high tide.

There is the art-deco style exterior of Newcastle Ocean Baths, or the Young Mariners’ Pool right next door, which used to have a legendary concrete map of the world as the base.

Then there’s Merewether Ocean Baths, the largest ocean baths in the southern hemisphere.

All of the baths mentioned are free to access and are hugely popular among visitors and locals alike. Get there early if visiting on a weekend.

Feed Aussie animals at Blackbutt Reserve

Blackbutt Reserve occupies approximately 182 hectares of land, with over 10 km of walking trails and wildlife exhibits that are free to enter. It is an environmental education centre with conservation and research programs on site.

Meander the trails spotting wombats, koalas, emus, kangaroos peacocks, and loads of native Australian birds. Attend a wildlife feeding or reptile show (check this website for details), have a picnic or feed the emu with special food bought from the kiosk.

Speed around the Stockton Sand Dunes

My personal favourite thing to do in Newcastle is Stockton Sand Dunes, 32 km of the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. These truly awe-inspiring dunes reach heights of over 30 metres with slopes of up to 60 degrees to form a magical landscape ideal for sandboarding , quad biking , horse riding, or 4-wheel-driving over.

Be sure to visit Tin City, the last legal squatter settlement in Australia! It’s a location on the dunes near the Bob’s Farm area where 11 shacks made of recycled material sit, often partly covered, in the ever-changing landscape. Several scenes of the hit 1979 movie Mad Max were filmed here.

Swim with dolphins at Port Stephens

Port Stephens is the dolphin capital of Australia, home to over 140 bottlenose dolphins. This tour is the only permitted wild dolphin swim opportunity in New South Wales.

This unique dolphin snorkel tour will have you entering a net at the bow of the vessel while attached with a safety lanyard to the catamaran. While the boat moves forward the dolphins will swim back and forth between the bows of the vessel, quite often within a meter of the swimmers. It is the only dolphin swimming tour of its kind in the world!

Also in Port Stephens, the beautiful Tomaree Head Summit walk will take you to an incredible lookout over the beautiful coastline, spectacular bays and inlets, Tomaree National Park, and Shark Island.

Camping near Newcastle and Hunter Valley

All the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Hunter Valley and Newcastle road trip from Sydney and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping.

● Camping near Newcastle: Abstobys Retreat ($28 per night) A private property with unpowered grass campsites by a tidal outlet to Port Stephens harbour. Guests have the use of a toilet, retreat shelter, fireplace, and BBQ area.

● Hunter Valley Camping: Wine Country Tourist Park (from $30 per powered site) This small family-owned park puts you right at the centre of all the Hunter Valley action and has some seriously adorable abodes to rent as well as a caravan park.

● Free Camping near Hunter Valley: Olney Headquarters Campground (FREE) 1 hour from the Hunter Valley, in between Wyong State Forest, Watagan State Forest and Watagan National Park. Campervan and tent sites, no booking needed.

Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay

Distance Covered: 877 km, 10.5 hours driving

Total Time Needed: 7 – 15 days in total

● Best road trip for beaches and rainforests, warm weather, hippy towns, and exploring the east coast

Have you always wanted to road trip Australia by the East Coast? Set out to explore the entire spectacular East Coast on one epic drive with this Sydney to Byron road trip. There’s so much to see on these Pacific Highway road trips around NSW that we’ve picked out quite a few essential stops.

Stops on the East Coast road trip to Byron Bay

Do you have a week or two and want to get out of Sydney? Byron Bay road trip stops in this itinerary are the perfect way to really get to know this fantastic, wild, beautiful country.

Explore Newcastle and the Hunter

Distance Sydney to Newcastle via Hunter Valley: 233 km, 3.5 hrs

A happening coastal city, Newcastle is the best place to start your Sydney to Byron drive. There are loads of sun-soaked things to do in Newcastle, so we wrote a whole section about it in our Newcastle road trip section above.

Additionally, check out Newcastle Museum (entry is free), or historic Fort Scratchley offers a fascinating glimpse into military history. Or Dave’s Brewery Tours can take you on a historic pub walk or a wine-tasting tour of the Hunter Valley .

As you travel north, be sure to drop into Port Stephens to go sand-duning over Stockton Dunes , explore picturesque Nelson Bay, and swim with dolphins in the marine park bay.

Cruise around the Great Lakes and Forster

Distance Newcastle to Forster via Great Lakes: 161 km, 2.5 hrs

As the largest coastal lake system in NSW, the Great Lakes on the Barrington Coast encompasses three beautiful lakes as well as the vibrant small town of Forster. Flanked by kilometres of pristine white beaches on the east and the Barrington rainforest to the west, this natural paradise is a haven for boating, dolphin spotting, swimming, and beach-hopping.

Drive past all of the lakes – Myall, Smith and Wallis – on your Sydney to Forster road trip, before hitting up One Mile Beach for a swim, Cellito Beach (also known as Sandbar) for a hike to seclusion, Blueys and Boomerang beach for the surfers, and Elizabeth Beach for the families.

Search for koalas in Port Macquarie

Distance Forster to Port Macquarie: 110 km, 1.5 hr

Port Macquarie is a sleepy beach town with plenty of hidden gems to discover, including the Bago Maze and Winery for a glass of white and a dizzying wander, the Koala Hospital to get a peek at some super cute rescued and recovering creatures, Ricardoes Tomatoes to pick your own fresh produce, and Lighthouse Beach for a charming swim with a side of heritage.

The road trip Sydney to Port Macquarie portion is a coastal drive that will put you about halfway to Byron bay. Be sure to try spot as many of the 83 artist-painted Hello Koalas sculptures scattered around town as you can.

Drop in to quirky Nambucca Heads

Distance Port Macquarie to Nambucca Heads: 120 km, 1.5 hr

Nambucca Heads is a must and only three hours from Byron Bay. While its coastal beauty makes for a breathtaking stop, its quirky fixtures add to its charming character.

Nambucca Heads is home to Australia’s longest sculpture made of a mosaic depicting a swirling tale of how the river winds through the mountains to the sea.

There are several shops stocked with cute curios and eccentric memorabilia. We also love to pick up a picnic from Bookshop Cafe to chow down along the shores of the Nambucca River while in town.

Get some rainforest healing in Bellingen

Distance Nambucca Heads to Bellingen: 37 km, 30 min

Before hitting Coffs Harbour, head inland to Bellingen. It’s a beautiful rainforest break from so many seaside towns and is known for its creative, bohemian community.

A stroll down the main street is full of historical architecture and feels like a step back in time (but in a good way). The lush landscape is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, who descend to hike, kayak, canoe and swim. The Never Never Creek is a lovely little escape into nature here too.

Take a day trip drive up to world heritage listed Dorrigo National Park to explore the ancient Gondwana Rainforest. Walk to Crystal Shower Falls or traipse over the elevated Walk with the Birds boardwalk.

Back in Bellingen, stock up at the Growers Market for fresh fares before heading back onto the open road.

Soak up the sun in Coffs Harbour

Distance Bellingen to Coffs Harbour: 35 km, 45 min

Suggested Stay: 1 days

A Sydney to Coffs Harbour road trip will have you just 3 hours from Byron Bay. Stop here for a night or two for a visit to spectacular beaches, rainforests, and banana farms.

Sealy Lookout is a lovely walk up to a sweeping vista looking out over the coastal landscape or head to Boambee Beach for sunset along its curve of golden sand extending more than 5.7 km. Also, check out the offbeat, but adorable mini Dutch village called The Clog Barn as well.

As you head north on the Sydney to Byron Bay drive a stop to see the Big Banana comes highly recommended, if only for the selfie.

Things to do in Byron Bay

Distance Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay: 233 km, 3 hrs

Byron has a hippy, cruisy vibe we can’t get enough of. Hit the beach, wander the wonderfully weird streets as you vibe with the buskers, eat your way around town, or kick back with a boozy beverage at any number of cool bars.

Beach-hop in Byron Bay

Of course, you will want to check out as many of these famously pretty beaches on your visit to Byron Bay as you can. Here are some of the best beaches in Byron Bay and why you should visit them:

● Main Beach – Best for people-watching and a walk to the lighthouse ● Broken Head Beach – Usually patrolled. Walk 7 km between Broken Head and Tallow Beaches ● The Pass – Has the perfect right-hander for surfers ● Wategos Beach – A pretty little cove great for swimming ● Belongil Beach – Home to ‘The Wreck’ and a popular swimming and snorkelling spot ● Clarkes Beach – A great beach to learn to surf

Meditate at Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens

For anyone feeling like channelling their inner hippie, head to Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens where you can enjoy some of the biggest crystals in the world and take part in healing walks and meditations.

Take a restorative swim at Lake Ainsworth

Lake Ainsworth in Lennox Head is known locally as Tea Tree Lake due to the tinted colour caused by tannins from the tea trees that surround the lake.

The water is said to have rejuvenating, health-giving properties for the skin and hair. You can also do stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing or use the wonderful barbecue and picnic facilities.

Day trip to Nimbin township and waterfall

Nimbin is a colourful ’hippie town’ with an alternative counter-cultural vibe, famous for its extremely relaxed attitude towards weed. As you wander the charming, arty streets of Nimbin, you’ll likely be straight up offered to buy anything from hash cookies to fat joints.

While you’re in the area, hike into the rainforest to the impressive Hanging Rock Falls near Nimbin. Wander behind the roaring waterfall and take a wild swim in the picturesque swimming hole.

Sample craft beer on a hot day at a local brewery

Along with being an artistic community, Byron Bay also houses an array of great craft breweries. Pay a visit to the following for a tasting paddle on a hot day:

● Stone & Wood Brewery in Byron Bay ● Seven Mile Brewing Co. in Ballina ● Byron Bay Brewery the Old Arts Factory

Camping on the Sydney to Byron Bay road trip

All the campsites listed below are perfect for you to overnight on a Sydney to Byron Bay road trip and accommodate RV, trailer, campervan, or tent camping.

● Forster Camping: Smugglers Cove Holiday Village (from $33 non-powered sites) This nautical themed holiday park is set on 20 acres of sub-tropical garden. It offers clean and modern amenities in a variety of accommodation styles.

● Camping near Port Macquarie: Diamond Head Campground ($24.60 per site as of Feb 2022) One of the most beautiful campsites on the coast, all sites are within a 2-minute walk to the beach and include space for tents to motorhomes and clean shower and toilet facilities. There is so much to explore, the gorgeous beach being only one activity.

● Central Port Macquarie Camping: NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park (from $35 unpowered sites) Famous for its outstanding waterfront views, beautifully landscaped gardens and situated on the banks of the Hastings River, right by the beach and the city centre.

● Nambucca Heads Camping: Pelican Caravan Park (from $40 unpowered sites) This is a riverfront property with a bunch of bonus features like a private boat launch and swimming pool. There are deluxe cabins, unpowered campsites and everything in between.

● Bellingen Camping: Bellingen Showground (from $15 per site) Close to swimming in Bellingen River and shops, with powered and non-powered sites, glamping tents, and bathroom amenities.

● Coffs Harbour Camping: BIG4 Sawtell Beach Holiday Park (from $37 per site) Surrounded by natural bushland and featuring wide-open spaces and stunning water views and fantastic amenities.

● Byron Bay Camping: Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay (from $29 per night) There’s no shortage of space or style of accommodation on these 28 acres of parklands which fronts onto the famous Tallow Beach. With access to cooking facilities, coin-operated laundry, jumping pad and saltwater swimming pool.

How to Hire a Campervan in Sydney

To hire a vehicle for any Sydney road trips in Australia, try Travellers Autobarn . They’re a one-stop shop for backpackers and budget travellers exploring all the wonders of this captivating landscape.

There’s a branch located conveniently in Sydney, as well as locations all up and down the coast. You can drop your chosen whip off at any of them, giving even more freedom to fangirl over.

If you’re looking to be in it for the long haul, you can even purchase one of them with a guaranteed buyback.

They have everything from decked out campervans to more simple station wagons. The ease and comfort of having your own wheels, let alone an entire abode inside, opens up a whole new type of travel.

Some added perks include 24/7 roadside assistance and discounts at caravan parks. It’s easy to get a quote to help organise finances ahead of time, and we love the peace of mind that comes from a trusted reputation backed by rave reviews.

Do You Need Special Insurance?

Okay, so the good news here is that insurance for a Campervan is much easier to procure than for a motorhome. It’s generally less expensive as it can be considered a regular van or car despite the basic facilities inside.

The company you hire a vehicle from will likely include insurance, though sometimes you can waive it and leave a deposit instead. You can also get private third party insurance – which is not required, but recommended – which may let you customise your policy more closely to your needs.

Often things like lost luggage, car accidents, and medical emergencies should be covered. Travel insurance and credit card insurance don’t always include campervan coverage with the basic policy you may already have.

As always, we recommend being fully covered for safety (and soothing anxiety), plus be sure to read your coverage policy carefully before buying it. Rentalcover is a popular pick among travellers looking to take trips from Sydney on their own terms.

What is it Like Driving in Australia?

First of all, the most important thing to note for all our foreign friends visiting Australia is that driving is done on the left side of the road! It’s also good to note that traffic rules are uniform from state to state.

It’s a relatively straightforward process. The roads are wide and there’s lots of open space, so it’s usually an enjoyable experience, especially once you leave the city.

In Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne you’ll come across a number of tolls, so be sure to budget them in.

Be sure to buckle up and follow all speed limits! Regular rules apply: don’t drink and drive or be on your mobile phone while operating a vehicle. An important Aussie tip, watch out for wildlife crossings, like kangaroos, koalas, emus, and wombats.

If you’re headed into the outback, be prepared for more rugged road conditions. Know the emergency services number just in case, which is 000.

Do you need an International Driver’s License?

It’s generally okay to drive with an overseas license as a temporary visitor (under three months) or with the addition of an international driving permit, as long as it’s in English or officially translated.

Rules for Camping in Australia

For campervan trips from Sydney, free camping is both possible and popular, but it isn’t allowed just anywhere. Commonly found at rest areas all over the country, free camping sites are used as an overnight stopover haven for getaways galore.

Wild camping, however, is actually illegal and refers to those that think they can just park up anywhere and get some shut-eye for an evening. Using the designated spots help you to avoid incurring any enormous fines and adds a bit of extra safety as a bonus.

More specific campsites are available for a nominal fee, making Sydney road trips more accessible than ever. Generally, these are parks, forests, and reserves and they often require a reservation ahead of time which can be done online.

Regardless of the camping you choose to do, always respect the land you’re on and follow our favourite rule: leave no trace!

It’s helpful to note that a lot of the campgrounds and campervan parks listed have cabins available. This is a great option to enjoy a more comfortable indoor space when you need a break, without shelling out for a hotel room, and still enjoying the great outdoors.

Most National Parks have clean facilities and cheap campsites, and all NSW State forests are free to camp in designated areas.

Cheap or Free Campsite Websites

It’s easier than ever to explore Australia on a budget, just check out CamperMates or WikiCamps to explore all the options along your chosen route.

● National Parks NSW ● Free Camping Australia ● Travellers Autobarn Free Camping in NSW ● National Parks Victoria ● Aircamp ● Hipcamp ● FindaCamp ● NSW State forests

Enjoy Your Roadtrips from Sydney

We hope you’ve found this information on taking Sydney roadtrips around NSW and Victoria. Feel free to ask us any questions using the comments form below. And make sure you save this post for future reference!

What are your road trip ideas from Sydney?

Passionate baby goat cuddler and part-time adventurer, Crystal can often be found doing headstands on the edges of cliffs, taking photos of abandoned buildings or sleeping on deserted islands with dangerous criminals. She has too many awesome stories and helpful tips to keep them all to herself so follow along and in return she will bring you inspiring pictures, travel videos and a whole load of fun!

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DRIVING THE INCREDIBLE WATERFALL WAY IN NSW [Itinerary]

One of Australia’s must-do drives, this Waterfall Way itinerary, connects the New England Tablelands with the North Coast at Coffs Harbour. We spent 3 days driving this route stopping at each waterfall along the way. Follow our guide will make sure you don’t miss any of the top spots.

All the must-see stops along the Waterfall Way

Armidale – our starting point, our driving route, walks in dorrigo national park, where to stay in bellingen, our waterfall way map.

This page may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy for more information.

On our last extended NSW road trip, we spent two days in Armidale and then three days exploring the Waterfall Way and all it has to offer. We found this was a perfect amount of time if you want to do more than scratch the surface. In fact, we discovered so much here we have planned another trip to focus on bushwalking in the area next year.

While you can make the drive with just one or two stops en-route we suggest you stay a few days.

Along the Waterfall Way there are four NSW National Parks:

New England National Park
Guy Fawkes River National Park
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Dorrigo National Park

We explored the region as part of a longer 5-week trip covering the north and west of NSW.

We began in Armidale after driving from Forster to Tamworth on the first week of a 5-week road trip. You could do this trip in the reverse beginning at Coffs Harbour if you prefer. We rented a motorhome for our journey and stayed in caravan parks, free camps, and showgrounds. The drive is along sealed roads and easily managed by a 2 wheel drive car, caravan or beast like this.

Our Motorhome rental vehicle at Armidale Showground

Armidale is the principal centre in the New England Tablelands and home of the University of New England. Australia’s Highest City. This makes a good starting point for your waterfall drive.

At 585km from Sydney and 494km from Brisbane, Armidale is a great halfway stop on a journey between the capitals.

While most travellers stick to the coast, we decide to do a bit of a loop and cover as much of the region as we could over the course of a week. I am so glad we did as this gave us reason to slow down and really explore, and there is so much to see here.

Why Visit Armidale

Armidale is a beautiful heritage town located 1000m above sea level, making it the highest city in Australia. It’s also one of the oldest in NSW. It gained popularity with early settlers who appreciated the four distinct seasons on offer, something many from Europe missed.

Being a university town gives the place an energetic vibe, there is always something happening in Armidale.

The area is also a magnet for adventure seekers with hiking, canyoning rafting and mountain biking opportunities. There are over 500km of rivers and, of course, the famous waterfalls spread through the region’s four National Parks, all less than an hour from town.

Depending on how you are travelling you could use Armidale as a base to explore the delights of the region.

What to see and do in Armidale?

Have a drink at the Imperial Hotel – a gorgeous old property with ironwork balcony
Explore the collection at the New England Regional Art Museum (Neram)
Take a drive out to see the Aboriginal rock art at Mount Yarrowyck
Wander the gorgeous main street of nearby Uralla
Take a day trip to Dangars Falls (note the s, there is also a Dangar Falls in Dorrigo)

Two nights would be good, three better, and it would be easy for hikers and nature lovers to fill a week.

Where to eat in Armidale

We only had two meals out as we were self-catering much of the time to stay on budget, however, we treated ourselves to at least one meal in each town to help support the locals.

Goldfish Bowl Bakery Cafe – We had a delicious breakfast here – a standard menu but very well executed. The bread was particularly good.
Tattersalls Hotel Armidale – Perfect for a splurge meal, Tattersalls has been returned it to its former beauty. The menu features plenty of local produce and the mains are between $25-40. A kid’s menu is also on offer.

Where to stay in Armidale

Tattersalls Hotel Armidale – It’s hard to beat the Tattersalls for a special occasion stay. The art deco-styled design is very well done and the rooms are spacious. Located in the centre of town, you can easily explore on foot and give yourself a brief break from being behind the wheel.

Armidale Showground – The closest site to town for RVs and caravans, the showground offers necessary facilities with power and water for $25 a night. We chose to stay here based on the location alone, but the manager was friendly – full of local insight on walks and drives we should try to include. There was plenty of space, and the sunset view over the trees was a pleasant surprise.

After spending two days enjoying Armidale and its surroundings, we began making our way to the coast along the Waterfall Way.

We followed the most common route and while some people do this in one day we took a little longer, allowing us time to walk in a few of the parks. Ideally, we would have had an extra day and spent more time at Catherdral Rocks National Park.

Stop 1 – Metz Gorge

Metz Gorge and Lookout were supposed to be our first stop along the route to Coffs Harbour, but we had to give it a miss. I didn’t read the part about it being on an unsealed road and the insurance on our vehicle was voided if we went off-road so… next time. If you have your own car, I suggest you pull in here.

Stop 2 – Wollomombi Falls – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

The first stop of the day for us was Wollomombi Falls, 38km east of Armidale. While the fall was not gushing, even after some recent rains, the gorge is breathtaking.

If you are lucky enough to be here after some serious rain, you will be treated to an even more impressive view as water can rush over the escarpment in three falls with the right rainfall.

Wollomombi Falls from the Lookout Platform

We parked in the car park, about five minutes in from the main road, and took a couple of short walks. The walk to the main lookout is only 75m, and it is wheelchair accessible. There is a huge new viewing platform and a clear view across the gorge and of the falls as shown below.

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park has 1100+ recorded plant species – more than any other NSW National Parks.

Wollomombi Falls wheelchair accessible viewing platform

From here, there are two more short walks, Checks Lookout and Chandler Viewpoint. We took both, Checks Lookout offers a view that is a little further away but is more or less facing the falls. Chandler Viewpoint has stunning views over the gorge. There are two longer walks you might like to try if you have time:

Chandler View Circuit Walk – a 6km loop walk
Wollomombi Walking Track – 4km return

It is not possible to walk to the bottom of the falls here because of very unstable land.

Tip: There is a small, rustic NPWS campground with ten sites just as you head in off the road. It would be a nice place to camp if you prefer not to stay in Armidale. There are BBQs, picnic tables, water, and toilets.

Stop 3 – Point Lookout – New England National Park

Just 35km, further along, is our next stop, Point Lookout. This time no waterfall but a stunning lookout over the escarpment. At 1500m above sea level and with views out to the Pacific Ocean on a clear day, this is a sight you will remember. It reminded me of the view into the Grose Valley from Evans Lookout at Blackheath, but even more vast.

The Point Lookout - Credit: John Spencer/DPIE

If you are short of time, the Point Lookout Walking Track is an easy 500m (wheelchair accessible) walk with huge rewards. Only 8km off the main road it will not add much time to your journey and it’s more than worth it.

If you have time to extend your visit, we suggest you take a couple of these walks:

Eagles Nest walking track – an easy 2.2km walk
Weeping Rock walking track – 2km return
Tea Tree Falls walking track – 4km return

This is one park we are keen to return to in the car. There is some good accommodation in the park and some parts of the park are more suitable for cars than motorhomes.

After a quick stop and just a stroll along the Point Walking Track, we moved on to Ebor Falls.

Stop 4 – Ebor Falls – Guy Fawkes River National Park

We are now about an hour (77km) east of Armidale and 30 minutes (36km) from Cathedral Rock National Park. This is park number three for the day and it’s not even lunchtime yet!

The top-level of Ebor Falls Waterfall Way Itinerary

The Guy Fawkes River feeds Ebor Falls, and it is probably the most impressive waterfall along this route. The 100m falls have two drops, usually viewed from three lookouts, however, Ebor was severely burnt by the bushfires of 2019/20 summer, and the lookout platforms were damaged beyond repair.

Access to the lower falls or walking track remains unavailable until the installation of new facilities – as of 30 March 2024, it remains closed.

The top-level of Ebor Falls from the lookout

We had lunch at the picnic area here. If you have not bought your lunch along, there is a walking track from the falls car park into the Ebor village where you will find the Ebor Hotel and Motel. The bistro offers lunch and dinner seven days. There are also a couple of cafes.

If you have done a few of the walks at the stops above, you might like to call it a day here. The Ebor hotel offers sites for RVs with and without power and also motel accommodation is also available.

Stop 5 – Dorrigo

We decided to push on another 50km to Dorrigo and tick one last waterfall off for the day. You have been driving downhill all day and are now about 730m above sea level, so things are a little warmer. The area surrounding the town is dairy and cattle country. In the 1840s timber cutters arrived, and many of the streets are named after types of trees. After World War 1, returning service members were offered land here for farming; many went on to become successful dairy farmers. Today, 1040 people called Dorrigo home.

Dorrigo is derived from the Aboriginal word, dondorrigo, meaning “stringy-bark” is part of the Gumbaynggirr Nation.

The town is compact, and the highlight for us was the old Dorrigo Hotel . Built in 1925, the hotel is in wonderful shape and the veranda is the perfect place to relax with a drink. Sadly, the street outside the pub was under repair at the time of our visit, so not a great photo. The restaurant is open seven days for lunch or dinner with hearty affordable meals .

While you are here, check out Griffiths Lookout. The turn-off is about 1km from town and then a 4km drive to the lookout.

Stop 6 – Dangar Falls

Less than a km down the main street is the main drawcard for visitors. Dangar Falls tumble 30m to a swimming hole that is pretty popular on a warm day.

There is a small viewing platform at the top of the falls where you will also find a picnic area, playground, and toilets. On the day we visited there was a coffee card (good coffee), but this is perhaps just on weekends.

The walk down to the falls is mainly along a well-marked track, with a couple of sets of stairs. The track is a bit washed away towards the end and was quite muddy but otherwise relatively easy. It should not take you more than 10 minutes.

Where: Coramba Road, Dorrigo

Overnight – Dorrigo Mountain

We spent the night at the Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park on Dorrigo Plateau. We had been heading to the showground but could not get anyone to answer the phone to book. The park has a lovely view of farmland, and we enjoyed a fantastic sunset and a peaceful night’s sleep. Where: 3991 Waterfall Way, Dorrigo

Motorhom at Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park

Alternatively, Dorrigo Showground offers RV parking for $15 per night or $25 with power/water. If you are organised, you can book a site at the private campground at Dangar Falls where an early morning swim is a highlight. The main benefit of staying the night in town is that you can arrive at Dorrigo National Park bright and early so you can hit the track before most of the visitors come.

Stop 7 – Dorrigo National Park

The two big highlights of Dorrigo National Park are Crystal Shower Falls and the Rainforest Skywalk. Visiting these two spots will take you about half a day.

If you want to do any other walks in the park, allow a full day or perhaps two half days with a lazy afternoon to recover.

Dorrigo is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage site, and by the time you leave, you will know why.

Man standing by a Tall tree in Dorrigo National Park

Walks depart from two main places, the Rainforest Centre and the Never Never Picnic Area. If this is your first visit, we suggest you head to the Rainforest Centre car park. Access most popular walks and the Skyway are here.

Over 150 species of birds are found in Dorrigo National Park – How many can you spot?

Tip : Many of the reviews we read suggested beginning your day at the Rainforest Centre and while this is not bad advice, it can confuse the fact that the park is open 24 hours, as the Rainforest Centre does not open until 9 am. Judy bypass the centre and head straight to the trail. There are a few accessible walks in Dorrigo National Park including the Skywalk, Satin bird Stroll, and Lyrebird Link; the park also has a trail rider available enquire and make a booking if you are interested.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

Stop 8 – Crystal Shower Falls – The Wonga Walk

Arriving just after 8am we began with the Wonga Walk, an almost 6.6km circuit that includes two waterfalls, 500-year-old trees and plenty of bird life. We passed only three other groups in the first 90 minutes, so starting early is recommended as this is one of the most popular walks in the country. It’s not a challenging walk, although I did feel it in my quads a bit on the walk back out. The walk took us 2.5 hours at a pretty slow pace and lots of stops to take a ridiculous amount of photos.

The Wonga Way Trail Dorrigo National Park

The Wonga Walk is a loop track, and we decided to walk in a clockwise direction, meaning we covered a large portion of the walk before we reached the highlights. You come to the smaller Tristania Falls first, about 2.9km into the walk, and then it’s another kilometre before you will arrive at Crystal Shower Falls. It seems like a long way before the first waterfall, but I think this was the right choice – psychologically – I like to earn my rewards 😉

Crystal Showers Fall Dorrigo National Park with a small rainbow

When we were planning our visit, we were a little confused about which walks to prioritise when we read there were ten walks in the park. Five walks depart from this end of the park:

The Wonga Walk – 6.6km walk that includes both Crystal Shower Falls and Tristania Falls. This is the must do walk in the park in our view and is suitable for anyone with an average fitness level.
Crystal Shower Falls – 3.5km return – if you want to see the falls but are not keen on the full 6.6km Wonga track then you can reach the falls from the Glade Picnic area – basically do the Satinbird stroll and then join the Wonga walk.

Shorter options that would be great for families or anyone with limited time:

Lyrebird Link Track – is an easy 400m track (that is included in the Wonga Walk)- it’s a quick stroll from Skywalk if you are short of time but would still like to get down amongst the ancient landscape.
Satinbird Stroll – a 600 m circuit that departs from The Glade Picnic area, and is a detour off the Wonga Walk. It is a flat path that is suitable for wheelchairs and prams, but there are a few steps to reach it.
Walk with the Birds – Bird lovers with binoculars were gathered here on our visit, a half a kilometre loop that is open from 5am to 10pm daily allowing plenty of time to spot some of the 150 species that can be found in the park.

In reality, Wonga Walk takes in several of the named trails, so if you do that; it’s not such a difficult decision. Serious bushwalkers or second-time visitors might want to make their way to the Never Never Picnic ground for a longer and more challenging walk.

Red Cedar Falls walking track – 8km walk for seasoned hikers (grade 5) the falls are the biggest in the park and this area is pretty wet so be sure to have good hiking shoes and complete an intention to walk form as mobile reception here is almost nonexistent.

Stop 9 – Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Canopy Café

When we finished our walk, we popped into the cafe for a quick drink then headed out to the Skywalk. This long boardwalk stands 21 metres above the floor or the rainforest and offers views of the coast. If you are looking for gifts, they had an excellent range here.

View from the skywalk at Dorrigo National Park

Ok, time to move on, from here you are less than 30 km from the beautiful town of Bellingen. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for a couple of roadside waterfalls. We came across two, one you could pull over to view more closely, but the other was more blink, and you miss it situation.

Check out our list of must-see National Parks in Australia

Stop 10 – Bellingen

Bellingen is a small town that is surrounded by green rolling pastures and the famously clean Bellinger River. When names like “The Promised Land” and “Never Never River” pop up on the GPS, you know you are likely heading some place pretty special. Once a hippy enclave, the Bellingen we discovered on our recent visit felt pretty gentrified. The main street is well preserved and features organic cafes, sustainable clothing and other goods, and it seems at first glance like the locals must be pretty cashed up to shop here.

Main street of Bellingen outside Emporium Bellingen

While you are in town try to check out:

The Old Butter Factory – Leather, woodwork, homewares and a lovely cafe in the 1920s butter making premises
Emporium Bellingen – men’s and women’s fashion in the historic Hammond and Wheatley Building.
Historic buildings of Hyde Street – the entire street is very photogenic.

We had planned to stay a night at the Bellingen Showground to give us a bit more time to explore, but it was closed. There is loads of accommodation and the idea of flying to Coffs Harbour less than 30 minutes from here and renting a car for a sneaky week-long stay after the peak season has crossed our minds. I expect we will be back!

All our stops, waterfalls, views, and overnight stays along the route.

Where: Armidale to Coffs Harbour How long: 183km – you could do it in a day, but why would you? There are enough walking and sites to keep you busy for a week, but at the very least, we suggest two days with an overnight stop in either Ebor or Dorrigo. Armidale and Bellingen are also worthy of a couple of nights to round out a week if you have time.

Want more waterfalls? Check out the Gold Coast Hinterland or the Atherton Tablelands two regions in Queensland with a ridiculous number of gorgeous options. There are also a number of waterfalls in the Northern Territory .

6 thoughts on “Driving the Incredible Waterfall Way in NSW [Itinerary]”

What a wonderful trip! I won’t say that we did most of that in one day! Wish we hadn’t now. Hopefully, soon we will be allowed further than 5 k…I will take 10 lol….

That looks lovely! Funny how some waterfalls actually are worth the trip, and these definitely look like they are. 🙂 Welcome back to the road!

Looks like a great road trip and love your motorhome! If I ever get the chance to tour Australia I am going to ask you for advice!! 😉

The buildings in Armidale remind me so much of Fremantle!

Looks wonderful – I am a huge fan of chasing waterfalls 🙂 I’ve bookmarked your site as I’ll be back to read more of your posts.

Thank you for a super-helpful post as I plan the route back from Lennox Head to Orange. Ebor Falls is the one for us… next trip we must get to Dorrigo and Bellingen.

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How to plan an outback road trip

Best Northern NSW Road Trip Via Coast and Country in 2024

One of the best ways to see Northern NSW is with the flexibility of an NSW road trip. Whether you are travelling as a family, as a couple or with a group of friends a road trip is the way to go. There is something really special about exploring areas that you haven’t visited before, finding hidden gems and creating memorable adventures along the way.

Where do you start? How do you plan an NSW road trip itinerary where you want to fit in as much as possible?

We planned this road trip NSW itinerary for a duration of two weeks travelling from Sydney up to the North Coast of NSW to Byron Bay and returning inland so that we could see as much as we could in our two weeks. You could easily extend this itinerary to 3 weeks or even 4 and even shorten it if you only have one week.

We cover some of the best beaches, great places to stay, visiting towns on the coast and inland, breweries, wineries, gin distillery, famous pubs and some of the best restaurants and local produce that rivals anywhere else in Australia.

Would we change anything on our NSW road trip? Yes, some extra time would have been a bonus on the return part of the journey. Most of our time was spent on the coast and not in the New England region of NSW. I put this down to the fact that I lived in the region around Tamworth for around 2 years when I was in my late teens and travelled around. The other reason was that the hotel we wanted to stay in Scone was fully booked so we chose instead to stay in Uralla and Wingham.

Another road trip is heading 1.5 hours from Sydney to visit the Blue Mountains Attractions.

Table of Contents

Our NSW Road Trip Itinerary

In this itinerary, we cover visiting:

Sydney to Port Stephens visiting Bennetts Beach (Hawks Nest), Tea Gardens, Salamander Bay, Nelson Bay

Port Macquarie

Beechwood, Nambucca Heads, Bellingen, Raleigh, Urunga, Sawtell, Yamba and Angourie

Lennox Head, Byron Bay, Newrybar,

Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Uralla, Wingham, Gloucester and return back to Sydney.

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Best NSW Road Trip Details – NSW Coast Road Trip Sydney Byron Bay

Sydney to port stephens.

Our first port of call was to visit Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens and in particular Bennetts Beach before heading to Salamander Bay for 2 nights. The journey on average takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to travel 220 km via the M1 and Pacific Highway/A1.

Bennetts Beach is also known as Hawks Nest Beach and it is 14.3 km long of silvery-white sand running from Seal Rocks to the north to Yacaaba to the south. It is popular with surfers and swimmers. There is parking available at the Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Lifesaving Club. The beach is patrolled from October to April.

Hawks Nest is a popular summer destination where visitors enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, boating, canoeing, fishing, bushwalking and diving.

There is a range of accommodation available in Port Stephens from camping grounds to motels, cottages and much more.

Good to know : If you are considering visiting at Xmas time or the Easter school holidays you will need to book in advance.

Tea Gardens

From Hawks Nest travel back over the Singing Bridge to Tea Gardens – yes it does sing, you can hear it when the south-westerly winds are blowing. If you wander under the bridge you may see bottle-nose dolphins in the Myall River and you may even be greeted by a family of pelicans.

There are some great restaurants to choose from in Tea Gardens. Our visit coincided with the running of the Melbourne Cup and our only choice for lunch was the very busy fun Tea Gardens Hotel. The atmosphere was electric and the food was excellent. All in all a good choice!

There are 4 restaurants/cafes that interest us when we return:

Mumms on the Myall – 46 Marine Drive Tea Gardens overlooking the Myall River

Open: Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 08.30 am – 10.30 am

Lunch – 10.30 am – 2.00 pm

Dinner Wednesday and Saturday from 5.30 pm

Tea Gardens Boatshed – 110 Marine Drive Tea Gardens overlooking the Myall River

Open : breakfast 7.30 am – 11.00 am

Lunch: 12.00 – 2.30 pm

Tillermans – 77 Marine Drive Tea Gardens

Open from: Thursday – Sunday from 8.30 am – 2.00 pm Friday & Saturday night by booking only

Hook n Cook – 77 Marine Drive for fish and chips

Open: 10.30 am to 6. 45 pm

Where to Stay in Port Stephens

There are many areas to stay in Port Stephens such as Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, and Shoal Bay but this time we chose to stay in the Oaks Pacific Blue Resort at Salamander Bay

Salamander Bay is centrally located to see all that the Port Stephens region has to offer.

What To Do in Port Stephens and Surrounds

If you have one day in Port Stephens we would recommend:

In the morning visit Tomaree National Park for hikes and walks. Allow 2- 3 hours for a variety of walks. Gan Gan Lookout at Lily Hill Road Nelson Bay is worth a visit. Allow 30 minutes at the lookout.

Lunch : Visit Murrays Craft Brewery at 3443 Nelson Bay Road Nelson Bay for a range of craft beers, Australian wines, great food and a gourmet produce shop.

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

Afternoon : Visit the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary at 562 Gan Gan Road One Mile Port Stephens.

Opening hours: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm – in winter they close at 4.00 pm.

You can purchase tickets in advance here

If you have 2 days to spend in Port Stephens :

Visit the Nelson Bay Lighthouse at 5A Lighthouse Road Nelson Bay and enjoy morning tea at the Inner Light Tea Rooms which is open from 8.30 am daily and close at 3.00 pm

Visit Nelson Bay township for shopping, street art, the harbour, restaurants and cafes.

If you are interested in a tour we can recommend the following:

Port Stephens to Port Macquarie

Driving time 2 hours 50 minutes – 250 km journey Pacific Highway/A1

Where to stay in Port Macquarie

In Port Macquarie, we stayed at the Ibis Styles – 4-star accommodation in a great location with an easy walk into town, views, a swimming pool and a very comfortable stay. You can read our review here.

What to do In Port Macquarie

Depending on what you are interested in there is so much to do here you can allow at least 2 days even 3 days.

Visit Port Macquarie’s historical buildings that date back to the early 1800s
Wander the Hello Koala Sculpture trail – with over 80 koalas in the area
Visit the Koala Hospital
Wander along Port Macquarie’s break wall
Visit Port Macquarie’s Lighthouse
Take a 15-minute scenic helicopter flight – check availability here
Visit the local wineries
Get lost in the Bago maze
Take coastal walks
Enjoy the local beaches

Port Macquarie to Nambucca Heads

We travelled from Port Macquarie to Beechwood to have lunch at the Beechwood Hotel. It is a short journey of 27 km with an average driving time of 26 minutes. The Beechwood Hotel was named the best hotel in the Wotif 2021 Uniquely Aussie Awards . It is a traditional country pub and on the weekends you may encounter the locals riding their horses to the hotel and tying them up outside on the railings and popping in for a cold beer or two.

Distance from Beechwood to Nambucca Heads

After a great lunch enjoying the antics of the locals we headed off to Nambucca Heads – a distance of 117.3 km with a driving time of 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Where to Stay in Nambucca Heads

We were fortunate to be able to enjoy the delights of the new The Beach Rooms in Nambucca Heads overlooking Gordon Park with stunning views of the river and ocean. The Beach Rooms offer funky accommodation, with a range of accommodation that suits families, couples and singles. There is on-site parking available, wifi and a shared kitchen/lounge area. You can read our review of our stay here

What to do in Nambucca Heads

Nambucca Heads is known for its 23 km of coastline. it is a great family destination where all can enjoy swimming, surfing, boating and visiting the towns of the hinterland.

You can read our article on things to do in Nambucca Heads here

What towns to visit in the Hinterland of Nambucca Heads

Bellingen is 37 km from Nambucca Heads with an average driving time of 30 minutes. Bellingen lies halfway between Sydney and Brisbane. For a small town, it punches a great funky bohemian vibe.

Bellingen is located by the Bellingen River along the Waterfall Way. The Waterfall Way runs from Coffs Harbour to Armidale for 185 km through rainforests, river valleys and waterfalls.

Why visit Bellingen?

Enjoy the many cafes and restaurants
Wander the main street and admire the historical buildings
Attend the local markets on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Saturdays of the month
Shop the arts and craft galleries at the Old Butter Factory on the outskirts of town
Enjoy a picnic by the Bellingen River

A highlight of taking time out of the day is to visit the Raleigh Winery at 36 Queen Street. Enjoy a spectacular lunch at the Raleigh Winery Restaurant and you can even spend a night or two at Raleigh House just a few steps from the cellar door and restaurant.

Distance from Raleigh to Urunga 4 km with an average driving time of 5 minutes.

Urunga is a small town north of Nambucca Heads. It is famous for its surfing, fishing and boating. Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the Urunga Boardwalk which is 1 km in length and it is also wheelchair friendly. Urunga is also where two rivers meet – the Bellinger and the Kalang. You may be lucky to see a pod of dolphins when you visit. During May and November you can see the migration of whales.

Nambucca Heads to Yamba

The distance between Nambucca Heads and Yamba is 180 km with an average driving time of 2 hours and 5 minutes.

You can take a break and stay at Coffs Harbour along the way. The distance between Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour is 48 km with an average driving time of 40 minutes. Another option is to break the journey in Sawtell just 15 minutes south of Coffs Harbour. Sawtell is a pretty town, the main street is full of cafes and boutique shops and has a lovely landscaped central median strip.

We chose to stop at Sawtell for lunch. Friends of ours live in Sawtell and we met up with them at The Hilltop Store for lunch. We can recommend their tasty seasonal menu for brunch or lunch. They are also licensed.

Address: 114 First Avenue Sawtell

Distance between Nambucca Heads and Sawtell – 44 km average driving time 33 minutes.

Distance between Sawtell and Yamba – 143 km average driving time 1 hour 40 minutes

Where to Stay in Yamba

There are over 177 properties to choose from to stay in Yamba.

We chose to stay at the Angourie Resort in Yamba, 5 minutes away from the beach. The resort has a range of accommodation that suits families and couples. There is a large outdoor pool, children’s pool and play area, day spa, tennis and restaurant.

You can read our review of our stay here

What To Do in Yamba

There is so much to do and see in Yamba , you should allow at least 3 nights here.

The highlights are:

Angourie Blue and Green Pools – great for swimming and family picnics, a very scenic spot, easy to park
Swim at Yamba’s 5 beaches
Do the Yamba historical walk to learn more about its history
Visit the Yamba Museum
Visit the Yamba Lighthouse
Enjoy the local markets
Visit the Wobbly Chook Craft Brewery

Yamba to lennox Head

The distance between Yamba and Lennox Head is 112 km with an average driving time of 1 hour and 20 minutes.

We chose to stay in Lennox Head rather than the very busy touristy town of Byron Bay. Byron Bay is 20 km away from Lennox Head and depending on traffic it is a 20-minute journey. At school drop off and pick up times the journey can take a little longer. Lennox Head is a quieter place to stay and perfect for families, couples or friends. There are restaurants, a cliffside walk, surfing, 4 WD driving, kayaking and boating on the Tea Tree Lake.

Lennox Head is a good base to visit the hinterland towns.

what To Do in and Around Lennox Head

Highlights of visiting Lennox Head and the Surrounding Hinterland:

Enjoy a 2 hour group surf lesson in Lennox Head

Kayak, canoe and stand up paddleboard on Lake Ainsworth (aka Tea Tree Lake)
Paraglide and hang glide from Lennox Head
Whale watching from June to October from Byron Bay
From Byron Bay – Hinterland Magic and Glo Worm experience – Go for a refreshing swim at a secluded waterfall. Walk among ancient trees and visit one of the highest waterfalls of the region. Adventure into the magical forest where glowworms light up the scene.
From Byron Bay a sea kayak adventure – Enjoy a 2.5-hour sea kayak tour on the pristine waters of Byron Bay. On the tour, lookout for native marine life, such as Pacific bottlenose dolphins and 3 different types of turtles. At the end of the tour, try surfing a wave to shore on your kayak.
Visit Seven Mile Brewery in Ballina
Visit Husk Distillery in North Tumbulgum
Visit the hinterland towns of Newrybar and Bangalow
Enjoy the region’s cafes and restaurants with their inspirational menus with sourced local produce

Top Adventures Tours Around Byron Bay

Big Day Out Byron Hinterland Tours

• Bush walk through ancient rainforests in the world heritage listed Nightcap Nationalpark
• Discover stunning Minyon Falls with breath taking views
• Enjoy a delicious BBQ style lunch
• Visit the famous little town Bangalow with its fascinating mix of local shops, galleries and cafes
• Weave your way trough beautiful landscape as you return to Byron Bay

Byron & Beyond Tour

Drive up to the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse for the best ocean and Byron Hinterland views and to spot migrating whales (between May and October) and local dolphins
Visit The Farm, a real working local farm with a range of different growers, producers, eateries, shops and kids activities
Experience magical Crystal Castle and walk through stunning gardens, touch the world peace stupa and enjoy the beauty of crystal from giant formations to exquisite jewellery
Have a delicious locally sourced BBQ-style lunch
Stop at the historical little town of Bangalow and tour its fascinating mix of local shops, galleries and cafes
Weave your way through beautiful landscape as you return to Byron Bay

Half Day Out Byron Bay Tour

Visit the Byron lighthouse and have your photo taken at Australia’s most easterly point
Watch whales (June-Oct), dolphins and sea turtles along the coast
Tour the sustainable-farming and food experience that is The Farm
Visit the beautiful little hinterland town Bangalow

Where To Stay in Lennox Head

There are 82 properties to choose from to stay in Lennox Head.

We chose to stay in an Airbnb property opposite the beach. The property has a funky style and has been designed by an interior designer. La Luna is suitable for 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 4 beds and 2.5 baths. There are two outdoor dining areas, a spa and an outdoor shower. Three bikes and 2 kayaks have been provided by the owner.

Country NSW Road Trip from Lennox Head to Sydney

Our inland NSW road trip itinerary:

Lennox Head to Uralla via Tenterfield and Glen Innes

Uralla to Wingham via Gloucester

Wingham to sydney, lennox head to uralla.

What a stunning scenic drive from Lennox Head to Lismore and Casino onto Tenterfield. Driving distance of 197 km and an average driving time of 2 hours and 51 minutes.

Our aim was to visit Tenterfield for lunch and to visit the Tenterfield Saddler made popular by singer Peter Allen. Unfortunately, due to Covid, the Tenterfield Saddler was closed. The store is run by volunteers and contains a lot of historical items. Maybe next time!

Where to have lunch in Tenterfield?

The Courtyard Cafe is located at 203 Rouse Street in the historic Sir Henry Parkes School of Arts Building.

The cafe is open for breakfast, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm. The cafe has an extensive menu to suit all palates and there is a choice to sit in the courtyard or inside. It is a popular venue for the locals.

Tenterfield to Uralla via Glen Innes

The next stage of the journey was 211 km from Tenterfield to Uralla, with an average driving time of 2 hours and 25 minutes.

The Australian Standing Stones at Glen Innes

We wanted to stop in Glen Innes briefly to view the Australian Standing Stones at Centennial Park. “The Stones celebrate the Celtic nations whose descendants contributed to the Australian way of life and reflect the movement of the Earth around the sun, an important feature of Celtic life.” source Visit NSW

There are many things to do in Glen Innes so plan to spend a few nights.

Good to know: The New England Highway/A15 was a quiet road and road conditions are not the best. We would recommend that you drive carefully and keep an eye out for potholes. I am used to driving on country roads and always ensure that I have a full tank of petrol and bottles of water. Wifi reception was poor in the area as well.

Where to Stay in Uralla

In Uralla, we stayed in an Airbnb 1 bedroom property that belongs to a local horse whisperer. The property was located a few kms out of town in a beautiful countryside setting. Our apartment was attached to the main house with views over the countryside. It is pet-friendly. More details can be found here.

What to do in Uralla

There are plenty of things to do in Uralla to keep you occupied for a day or two:

Visit the Barking Dog Gallery at 36 Bridge Street
Visit the Uralla Foundry Museum at the corner of Salisbury and East Streets – established in 1872 the foundry until recently was the oldest foundry still operating in Australia. Ring for appointments on 02 6778 6420
Collect your free Heritage Walk from the Visitors Centre
Visit the McCrossin’s Mill Museum , Gallery and Function Centre at 31 Salisbury – the historic 3 storey flour mill houses exhibits, tells the story of Thunderbolt, artefacts from the goldfields and the story of the Chinese Joss House.
Whyworry Wines (Kingstown Road, Kingstown)and the distillery of Eastview Estate at 298 Kentucky Road, Kentucky.
Visit Greenhill Orchards at 670 Hawthorne Drive at Arding – a working family orchard producing summer fruits and apples and pears
Visit Sunhill Dairy Goats at 645 The Gap Road Uralla – meet the goats and taste their cheese – tours are available
Visit Berry Good Berries at 70 Goodes Road Uralla – pick your own fruit
Visit Uralla Combined Indoor Market on the 4th Saturday of every month between 9 am and 12 pm in the Memorial Hall in Salisbury Street Uralla
Visit the Kentucky Seasonal Craft & Produce Market 2nd Sunday of each season in the Memorial Hall Kentucky from 9 am to 1 pm for local produce, arts and crafts
Visit Dangars Gorge & Falls along Tourist Drive 19, 35 km east of Uralla

Where To Eat in Uralla

The Top Pub in Uralla is the popular place to eat in town. The restaurant was excellent, with a great menu and wine list, you do need to make an advanced reservation. There is an outdoor and indoor eating area as well as the main bar. We would definitely return.

Address : 23 – 27 Bridge Street Uralla

Open: Daily except for Christmas Day. Lunch from 12.00 pm to 2.30 pm. Dinner from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm

With dishes such as African Spiced Lamb Rack, Fig and Brie Garlic Roasted Chicken to gluten-free and vegetarian options such as Thai Crispy Tofu and homemade spinach pie- no wonder the restaurant is booked out in advance. Did I also mention the mouthwatering desserts on offer too!

New England Brewery

Next to the Top Pub at 19 Bridge Street is the New England Brewery with a range of craft beers and their speciality IPAs. Currently, they open from Wednesday to Saturday. Check their times here .

Other places to eat out in Uralla Shire are:

Cafe Gusto for Italian Cuisine at 46 Bridge Street Uralla – open Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner
Michael’s Cafe, Deli & Catering at 98 Bridge Street – open Monday to Friday 6.30a am to 4.00 pm (closed Thursdays) for coffee, all-day breakfast, fruit platters and veggie packs
Thunderbolt Inn Cnr Bridge & Hill Streets Uralla – open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week -for good pub food

Distance : 254 km driving time average 3. 5 hours from Uralla to Wingham on the Thunderbolts Way. The road is named after a local bushranger, Frederick Ward, who roamed around the New England region in the 19th century. The road is steep in parts and is not in good condition.

The town of Gloucester is located in the Barrington Coast Hinterland and it is the closest town to the Barrington Tops National Park. The Gloucester River runs through town and you can wander along the riverbank.

The Gloucester Information Centre is one of the best we have encountered. Not only were they open, but also open on a weekend, with very knowledgeable staff and lots of information on the area.

What to do in Gloucester

Go hiking – for more information click here
Visit the historic towns of Nabiac, Stroud, Patterson and Dungog
Visit Villa d’esta winery at 2884 Wallambah Rd, Dyers Crossing
Visit Gap Hill Winery at 8 Gap Hill Road Stroud Road Stroud
Visit Tugwood Winery at 450 Mograni Creek Road, Gloucester NSW
Visit Gloucester River Wines at 51 Stantons Lane Gloucester
Grab a juicy meat pie from Hebbys Bakery at 55 Church St Gloucester
Take a scenic drive through the National Parks – more information here

Where to Stay in Gloucester

There are 11 properties available to stay in Gloucester NSW

Gloucester to Wingham – 68.7 km average driving time 55 minutes

Where To Stay in Wingham

Unfortunately, our beautiful farm stay in Wingham had to close shortly after we stayed there.

There are 5 properties available to stay in Wingham .

The other alternative is to stay in Taree where there are 17 properties available. Taree is 9 km from Wingham with an average driving time of 9 minutes.

What To Do in and Around Wingham

Wander the streets of Wingham and enjoy the street art
Dine at Bent on Food
Admire the historical buildings in town
Have a beer at The Australian Hotel
Visit the Manning Museum
Wander Wingham Central Park
Take the Wingham Self-Guided Heritage Walk
Visit the Coorabakh National Park
Visit Ellenborough Falls , one of Australia’s top ten waterfalls
Visit Potaroo Falls
Visit Saltwater National Park
Visit Crowdy Bay National Park
Explore the Manning River – a fishing and boating paradise
Visit Tapin Tops National Park
Take a self-guided Cattai Wetlands walk
Enjoy dinner at the Wynter Tavern 1 Bushland Drive Taree not far from Wingham

The final leg of our north coast of NSW road trip.

Distance from Wingham to Sydney 321 km with an average driving time of 3 hours 38 minutes.

We hope you enjoyed our article on our North Coast Road Trip travelling via the coast and returning via the country. Feel free to share our article with family and friends. If you have any questions please contact us or post your question on our private Facebook group here .

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Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state's first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water. Discover NSW on a road trip! Enjoy scenic drives across the state & experience the best of the state. Find out places to visit, what to ...
The 6 BEST NSW Road Trips
The 6 Best NSW Road Trips for 2022. Check out the table above for a sneak peek overview of the best NSW road trips and be sure to read through all the details below! Greater Blue Mountains Drive. Route - Sydney, Katoomba, Lithgow, Mt Tomah, Bilpin, Hawkesbury; Distance - 220km; Duration - 2 - 4 days; Vehicle - Any vehicle is suitable
The Optimal NSW Road Trip? We Mapped Out an Itinerary of the State's
Location: Stockton, Nelson Bay. Highlight: 4WD beach driving. Get ready to hit the sandy shores of Worimi Conservation Lands for some seriously wild beach and dune driving action. With over 19km of Stockon beachfront and a whopping 350 hectares of dune driving, this is the ultimate playground for off-road enthusiasts.
Map of NSW's Best Road Trips
Plot your next weekend away with this incredible map of NSW's best road trips.. If you needed another reason to hit the road and explore NSW, then consider this it! Illustrator Mike Rossi has created this beautiful pull-out wall map for the latest issue of Australian Traveller magazine.. There are 29 unforgettable road trip routes to explore - and a fair few you've probably never heard of!
10 Best NSW Road Trips 2024 [With Scenic Views]
8. Mighty Murray River Drive. Ulupna Island | @lexcello. Marking the border between NSW and Victoria, the mighty Murray River also serves as the route of this splendid road trip. Packed with history, scrumptious wine, towering gums, and plenty of watersports, this drive will give you a taste of life on the river.
19 Road Trips in NSW You've Never Heard Of
NSW is full of epic road trips to discover… You are spoilt for choice when it comes to road trips in NSW; from the Grand Pacific Drive, Rainforest Way, Kosciuszko Alpine Way, Darling River Run and Greater Blue Mountains to the Riverina to Snowy Valleys Way, Waterfall Way, Mighty Murray River Drive and Central to Outback NSW - the list goes on! Here, find 19 more road trips to plan in the ...
Central to Outback NSW Road Trip Itinerary
Drive from Dubbo to Broken Hill on a meander from Central West to Outback through some satisfying stereotypes - but many surprises, too. Red earth, vast skies, vast floodplains and bony, rugged landscapes meet in western NSW, best explored on a traditional outback road trip with dust behind your car and adventure up ahead.
28 best road trips to take in NSW
2/28. Coast and Country Highlife Bowral to Robertson. This 540-kilometre loop offers a tasty foray into coast and country. Explore the culinary highlights of the Southern Highlands, visit a sustainable farm in Braidwood, shuck oysters and spot whales in Batemans Bay (pictured), feast on fresh seafood at Mollymook, sip wines in the cellar doors surrounding Jervis Bay, find an epicurean hub in ...
13 Epic NSW Road Trips: From Coast to Countryside
Mudgee is one of NSW's premier wine regions in the Central Tablelands of NSW. The 270 km journey will take you around 3.5 hours to 4 hours, or 45 minutes, by air with Pelican Airlines. Downtown Mudgee. Mudgee is home to over 35 wineries, a gin distillery, cheese-makers, local restaurants and bars.
5 great NSW road trips
Sydney to Dubbo. Only 5 hours from Sydney and not so many worlds away is Dubbo - and a road trip to Dubbo is more than a singular means of getting to one of Australia's greatest zoos. It's a chance to traverse the Great Dividing Range and experience the natural, cultural and gastronomic delights that lie in and beyond the Blue Mountains.
6 road trips you'll never forget
Steep in the area's heritage on a pre-road trip stay at Circa 1928 Albury, housed in a former bank, or lean into the urban vibe at the Atura Albury. Be surprised and delighted by the fascinating stories of heritage towns including Howlong and Corowa, where Corowa Whisky and Chocolate, set inside a 1920s flour mill, offers a delectable pit stop.
The Ultimate 2 Week South Coast NSW Road Trip Itinerary
A South Coast NSW road trip takes you past some of the best beaches, national parks, rainforests and quiet small towns. While you can drive from one side to the other in 6 and a half hours, a South Coast NSW itinerary should be spread over a couple of weeks, because there is so much to see and do along the way.
The Great Central NSW Road Trip
Day 1 - Sydney, Bathurst & Blayney. Distance: 275km. Total driving time: 3 hours 40 minutes. Starting off in the big smoke, you're going to want to make a bee-line west immediately and head for greener pastures. Enjoy the windy roads and hills of the Blue Mountains before settling into the flat country of Central NSW.
Sydney to Byron Bay: A relaxed NSW road trip itinerary
Northern NSW road trip itinerary: We set off north along the coast from Sydney, heading all the way up to Byron Bay near the Queensland border before turning around and heading south via an inland route through Tamworth. The trip took us 10 days, though we could easily have extended it to 2 weeks for a more relaxed pace.
Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Days 3 to 5 - Kiama to Jervis Bay. The next stop on your road trip NSW South Coast is Jervis Bay. The drive from Kiama to Jervis Bay isn't far, taking less than an hour. You can have a late start and make a few stops along the way. There are two routes you can take, first along the highway or take the detour through the coastal towns of ...
4 outback road trip itineraries to Broken Hill
4 outback road trip itineraries to Broken Hill. Broken Hill's heritage, landscape and art scene lure travellers deep into NSW's outback. Make the journey as fun as the destination with these four road trips that promise gourmet, culture and nature experiences en route. Destination NSW. Mar 2023 -.
An 8-day road trip itinerary along the NSW South Coast
Day one: Sydney to Jervis Bay (drive time: three hours, 20 minutes) This road trip loop begins in Sydney to Jervis Bay. But if you're travelling south to north, you could easily pivot this itinerary around Eden. The stunning Shoalhaven town of Jervis Bay is a playground comprising crystalline waters and white sands.
Best Road Trips from Sydney (Itinerary Ideas)
A 14 day Sydney road trip itinerary is the perfect amount of time to do a Sydney to Byron Bay road trip, including a couple of days in Newcastle. This is one of the best NSW road trips for people who want to explore the east coast and rainforests. You could also combine the Kangaroo Valley, Canberra and the Snowy Mountains, and Jervis Bay road ...
Trip Planner
Use the Trip Planner to plan a trip on public transport by metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail, coach or by walking, cycling, taxi or rideshare anywhere in Sydney and NSW, with real-time information where available.
DRIVING THE INCREDIBLE WATERFALL WAY IN NSW [Itinerary]
Armidale - Our Starting Point. Armidale is the principal centre in the New England Tablelands and home of the University of New England. Australia's Highest City. This makes a good starting point for your waterfall drive. At 585km from Sydney and 494km from Brisbane, Armidale is a great halfway stop on a journey between the capitals.
Road trip planner
Trips and itineraries. Road trip planner. Find local inspiration and start planning your next road trip with our simple interactive journey planner. Explore the best of Australia and find your perfect getaway.
Best Northern NSW Road Trip Via Coast and Country in 2024
Uralla to Wingham via Gloucester. Distance: 254 km driving time average 3. 5 hours from Uralla to Wingham on the Thunderbolts Way. The road is named after a local bushranger, Frederick Ward, who roamed around the New England region in the 19th century. The road is steep in parts and is not in good condition.
Trip Planner
Whether you're planning a trip on a shoestring budget or splashing out, the open road welcomes anyone with a sense of adventure and desire for discovery. Check out escapes in each state, explore travel advice, accommodation, car hire, fuel information, maps and much more on the NRMA trip planner. Make sure you check your roadside assistance and ...

The 6 BEST NSW Road Trips – Epic Drive Itineraries [2024 Edition]

Greater Blue Mountains Drive

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Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton Credit: Destination NSW

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Be mesmerised by coastal scenery on the Grand Pacific Drive

Feel your stress melt into big sky country on a drive from Sydney to Lightning Ridge

Drift peacefully along the Mighty Murray River Drive

Reset on a quick getaway from Sydney to Newcastle

Breathe in the cool mountain air on a drive from Sydney to Jindabyne

Whale Watching, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins

Scenic Drive, Cumborah Credit: Destination NSW

Mount Warning Tours, Tumbulgum Credit: Destination NSW

Camping, Kosciuzko National Park Credit: Destination NSW

MORE INSPIRATIONAL STORIES

Horse Riding, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

Pick your own adventure

Try out the local dining scene

Stay in quintessential Snowies lodging

Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery, Crackenback Credit: Destination NSW

Lake Crackenback, Thredbo Credit: Destination NSW

Lake Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains Credit: Destination NSW

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Day 1 – Sydney, Bathurst & Blayney

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Reflections Holidays – Burrinjuck Waters

Day 3 – Koorawatha to Grenfell

Day 4 – Grenfell to Forbes

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Sydney to Byron Bay: A relaxed NSW road trip itinerary

This northern NSW road trip was actually not on my priorities list. Like, at all.