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30 best NSW long weekend escapes
From bell tents to beach getaways, if you’re planning a weekend escape, our hot list of 30 top short breaks in NSW has you covered.
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Boomerang Beach
Known for its top notch surfing, Boomerang beach is just three and a half hours north of Sydney, and one and a half south of Port Macquarie. The Booti Booti National Park headland and outcrop means the bay is protected, so swimming is gentle, and allows for snorkeling, rock fishing and jumping from rock pool to rock pool. Catch a glimpse of breaching dolphins in the warmer months.
Where to stay: The Deck is a private homestead surrounded by rainforest that can sleep up to 14. Perhaps for a multi-generational getaway.
There’s a reason this place is on almost every “Must Go” list for NSW; it never gets old, and repeatedly delivers the perfect mix of relaxation, clean living and village life, all by the ocean. With farmer’s markets each Sunday in summer, yoga, triathlons for those energetic enough, and comedy nights, it has something for everyone. And don’t let winter in Byron slip you by; enjoy whale watching, dolphin spotting , festivals, restaurants, and exploring the hinterland.
Where to stay: Byron's Beach Suites are right on the waterfront and feature 14 guestrooms.
In the Great Lakes region, around four hours north of Sydney, the seaside town of Forster offers scuba diving , whale and dolphin cruises , ocean baths to paddle in, sailboarding, fishing and basically any water activity you can think of. Deep sea fishing is unique to the area, as is oyster farming. Fly in to nearby Taree Airport from Sydney, or drive up Newcastle if you’re not in the mood for a road trip.
Where to stay: The Hotel Forster has a dreamy pool, BBQ facilities and free private parking.
Garie Beach
One of 11 beaches within the Royal National Park just south of Sydney, Garie Beach is a great place to enjoy bush walks, camping, fishing and surfing. Explore the tropical microclimate gullies around the park that grow unique cabbage tree palms and ferns. For an incredible view, head to Governor Game lookout .
Where to stay: Helensburgh is one of the larger suburbs on the outskirts of the Royal National Park and is home to the Helensburgh Hotel .
Kangaroo Valley
Greenery in abundance springs to mind when you think of Kangaroo Valley . Two hours from Sydney and Canberra, nestled between the Jervis Bay area and the Southern Highlands, sits one of the most leafy, tranquil spots in the state. Visitors can kayak, camp, head to a spa, horse ride, and enjoy local wines and markets. Fitzroy and Gerringong Falls are also less than 20km away and picture-perfect for a riverside picnic.
Where to stay: Holiday homes are popular in Kangaroo Valley. Make one yours by checking out the selection of private villas and retreats on Stayz .
Head to the central west tablelands town of Oberon to experience some of the state’s best horse riding, valley views and bike trails. If you’re there in January, indulge in Mayfield Garden glamping . The gardens are the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned cool climate garden. During certain times of the year (check the website for event details), an additional 120 acres of private gardens are opened, and the Mayfield Lake is dotted with row boats. Oberon is 2.5 hours from Sydney, or 30 minutes from Bathurst. Picture: Destination NSW
Where to stay: When the weather is warm, camp under the stars or score a cabin at Jenolan Holiday Park .
Sitting at the summit of the Blue Mountains, Blackheath is home to some of the state’s prettiest stone buildings and weatherboard cottages. The town is also the starting point for some of the most magnificent mountain trails. Enjoy the Growers Market which is on every second Sunday of the month, and pick up some of the town’s famous rhododendrons. Blackheath is just under two hours from Sydney and Orange.
Where to stay: The Kyah Hotel is an old motel that has had the bougiest of glow ups.
Hunter Valley
The Hunter is known for its leafy vineyards, lip-smacking wine and concerts aplenty, but there’s more on offer. Head to Wollombi for, yes, wine, but also great bushwalking, camping and mountain bike trails in the UNESCO World-Heritage listed Yengo National Park . Or head further north to Scone , the horse capital of Australia, to pitch a tent at the Washpools campground in Towarri National Park, or cast your line in Lake Glenbawn or the Pages River. Wollombi is two hours north of Sydney, and Scone is just over three.
Where to stay: In summer, camp out at Washpools campground .
Just under three hours north of Sydney and two hours from Port Macquarie, Hawks Nest sits at the mouth of the Myall Lakes National Park, where a network of lakes, rivers and channels meet. Fishing, kayaking, swimming, and bush walks within the National Park make it an outdoor paradise. Take the ferry across to Nelson Bay for some dolphin and whale watching .
WHere to stay: At the water's edge, Tea Gardens Hotel is an affordable stay that also welcomes furry friends.
Orange is about 3.5 hours from Sydney through the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. The leafy town is renowned for great quality food and wine, and it’s easy to see why with the likes of hatted restaurant, Lolli Redini . Take a walk around the Orange Botanic Gardens and the regional gallery, or head just out of town for bushwalks in the Mount Canobolas conservation reserve. Picture: Destination NSW
Where to stay: The Remington Orange has wonderfully friendly service, generously sized rooms and a delicious breakfast.
Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach , best known for its white sand and gentle swell, is one of the most popular beaches in the Jervis Bay area. Summer periods can be busy, with families descending on the idyllic still waters to swim, snorkel, stand-up-paddleboard, fish, or birdwatch on the beach trails. The white sand of Hyams is included in the global White Sands Walk . Hyams is just under three hours south of Sydney, and two and half east of Canberra.
Where to stay: Make the Marazul Paradise Beach House your home away from home. It sleeps 14 and includes parking.
Jindabyne , five hours south of Sydney, or two from Canberra, sits at the foot of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, and has loads to offer; from fishing and water sports in Lake Jindabyne, to horse riding, helicopter joy rides, and mountain biking. The town itself has great restaurants, bars, a distillery, plenty of nightlife and a number of festivals throughout the year.
Where to stay: Stay on the waterfront at Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains .
Ninety minutes south of Sydney, the town of Berry is nestled between Kangaroo Valley and the beach, making it truly unique. Go swimming in the morning, bush walking in the day, enjoy wine tastings in the late afternoon, followed by dinner at one of many acclaimed restaurants in town. Picture: Alamy
Where to stay: Modern with a dash of retro, The Berry View is a 3-star hotel with free parking that's a stone's throw from the centre of town.
The splendour of Mollymook beach , is apparent not only because of the frolicking whales and dolphins, but also the 2km stretch of white sands and the large natural rock pool. Learn to surf, play some golf, eat the delicious fare at Rick Stein at Bannisters , or simply get horizontal and devour a book. The town is just over three hours south of Sydney, or two and a half east of Canberra.
Where to stay: Mollymook Seascape Motel & Apartments is the perfect stop road trip. Guests rave about its cleanliness and service.
Port Stephens
Two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney, just past Newcastle, lies Port Stephens, a water and sand dune playground. Check out the Stockton Sand Dunes , the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and have a go at sandboarding or 4WDing . Or go kayaking, swimming, fishing, waterskiing and more in the marine park that’s twice the size of Sydney Harbour. Or if flattening yourself on a towel for a snooze in the sun is more up your alley, choose from one of area's 26 incredible beaches.
Where to stay: The Anchorage Hotel & Spa for a Hampton-style holiday.
Known for its ski fields, this Snowy Mountains town is also bustling in the warmer months. Take on the hugely popular Kosciuszko Walk , or keep an eye out for the valley's fun food and drink festivals. Enjoy bush trails, bobsleds, horse riding and fishing in the Snowy River. Thredbo is 5.5 hours south of Sydney, and 2.5 from Canberra.
Where to stay: Summer or winter, the Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa is a winner with full kitchens for families and spa treatments for a pamper.
A gem in the Sapphire Coast’s crown is undoubtedly Bermagui , a town known for its deep sea fishing, pretty harbor, grower’s market, and surrounding vineyards. Dip your toes in at Cuttagee Beach . the Blue Pool (pictured) and Wallaga Lake , or stay dry and go for a bushwalk in Mimosa Rocks National Park or Camel Rock. Bermagui is just over five hours south of Sydney, or about three from Canberra.
Where to stay: Choose from 100+ holiday homes on Stayz .
If you’re into your food and wine, this town, just under four hours north-west of Sydney, is your short break gold mine. Vineyards are scattered around the valley, and the Mudgee Wine and Food Festival brings people from all over the state in spring. Take a drive to the Mudgee Observatory , or enjoy a tipple at one of the many cellar doors. UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is also well worth a visit.
Where to stay: Vineyard accommodation is a must in Mudgee. Our pick? Farmers Quarters .
Idyllic Bowral in the Southern Highlands is known for its tulips, cricket history, vineyards and great food. Enjoy fly fishing, local galleries, or scenic drives, all within two hours from Sydney or Canberra. While you’re there, squeeze neighbouring historical Berrima into the itinerary too, with a scenic drive along the Illawarra route.
Where to stay: Link House is a serene and charming guesthouse with free brekky and on-site parking.
Central Coast
This region, just north of Sydney, has been experiencing a quiet resurgence in recent years with upmarket hotels like the recently refurbished Beachcomber at Toukley (think Miami with an Aussie accent), the Studio Lane coffee hub at Erina, Treetops Adventure Park (pictured) and The Drifter’s Whar f complex which serves excellent cocktails while dishing up live entertainment from the likes of Client Liaison. In other words, not the Central Coast you remember from your youth. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: The Beachcomber Hotel and Resort commands a waterfront position with a pool surrounded by palm trees.
Giant radio telescopes and Australia’s best Elvis Festival aside, the Somewhere Down The Lachlan sculpture trail is one of the finest in the country combining beautiful surrounds with thought-provoking art. The nearby town of Forbes is also a beauty with a phalanx of heritage buildings and the rev-heads’ delight that is McFeeters Motor Museum . (pictured). Check out the Ikon at Hotel Gracelands and try the Elvis Cheesecake. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Hotel Gracelands , naturally.
Lord Howe Island
Named by National Geographic as one of the world’s best destinations last year, this Unesco World Heritage listed island is limited to only 400 visitors at any time. It’s that fragile and precious. Pristine ocean, coral reefs and the Neds Beach Special Purpose Zone where you can hand feed fish are just some of the attractions. Do the Valley of The Shadows trail and check into the gorgeous Capella Lodge . Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Capella Lodge for breathtaking views.
It might not be mentioned as often as Margaret River or the Hunter Valley, but Cowra plays host to over 30 vineyards – many of which champion biodynamic farming methods. We like Wallington Wines as the produce is not only certified organic but there is a variety to suit most palates, from chardy to rose to Tempranillo. The nearby site of a POW camp from World War II it teems with unique history and the Japanese Garden is one of Australia’s best green spaces. If you’re into photography, check out the masterclasses held by local talent David Magro . Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: With its exceptional 9.6/10 customer rating on Expedia, Cowra Services Club Motel is centrally position, clean and family friendly.
The key attraction here is the super family-friendly Taronga Western Plains Zoo – which is home to over 4000 creatures, offers accomm and has a gorgeous new star: one-horned rhino calf Hari. You’re also close to Warrumbungle National Park , Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. If you want to get the pulse pounding, check out the paddleboarding, waterskiing or kayaking options on Lake Burrendong. Back in town, hit up the Milestone Hotel which dates from 1882 and is a classic country pub. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Visiting the zoo? Stay on site at one of its self-contained Savannah Cabins .
This town in the western foothills of the NSW Snowy Mountains is particularly fetching in autumn. As the temperatures drop, the local foliage explodes into colour and there are a bunch of activities to try – biking, canoeing, swimming (for the brave), hiking and fly fishing. Time your visit for April and you can soak in the Falling Leaf Festival. For a laidback meal, hit up the Tumut River Brewing Company (pictured) and for something a bit fancy, Three Blue Ducks at Nimbo Fork Lodge is a winner. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Riverglade Caravan Park has budget-friendly family cabins as well as powered sites for campervans.
Broken Hill
Now you’re talking proper outback. Enormous skies, red dust, distant horizons. The Living Desert Sculpture Trail – created by a dozen international artists – is a non negotiable. If you can swing it, plan your visit for September and the Broken Heel Festival that is inspired by Priscilla, Queen of The Desert – where several iconic scenes were filmed. Also check out the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery –and order a soda spider at Bells Milk Bar – Australia’s oldest. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Driving through? Broken Hill Tourist Park is family and pet friendly with cabins that sleep up to six.
Port Macquarie
Did you know Port Macquarie has 17 beaches? And that you can take a camel safari on one of them? The Koala Hospital in historic Roto House is the perfect place to get up close to these creatures. In short, PM is a family favourite where you can pick strawberries at Ricardoes or challenge to clan to an escape room if the weather is a tad dodgy. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges delights in a waterfront location that can't be beat.
Coffs Harbour
Another coastal destination ideal for families, Coffs is a bit of an undiscovered and multifaceted gem. The Butterfly House will delight visitors of all ages, there’s whale watching opportunities galore and the weekly Harbourside Markets on Sundays will provide bulk retail therapy. Try the always popular Stunned Mullet for prime local seafood. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Choose from one of 10 apartment style rooms at Club Wyndham Coffs Harbour .
Once an industrial city with a half-decent footy team, Newcastle has, in recent years, seen an influx of new hotels, restaurants, cafes and stores. Add these to some of the best low-key beaches in the state and you've got an ideal long weekend destination if you don't want too long a trip from Sydney. The Newcastle Food Month runs throughout April and the Crystalbrook Kingsley hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the city and its surrounds. Its Icky Sticky Patisserie does a croissant that will live long in the memory. For an excellent seafood lunch, check out the Peregrin restaurant at the newly refurbed The Beach Hotel.
Aside from being one of the most euphonious towns in Australia, Narooma is in close to the Montague Island Nature Reserve . On the 6 th and 7 th of May, it also holds the Narooma Oyster Festival and the turquoise waters of the Wagonga Inlet will have you thinking you’re in the Maldives. The Quarterdeck bar and restaurant is uber stylish – try the Jungle Bird cocktail with Appleton rum, Campari and pineapple. Photography: Destination NSW.
Where to stay: Discovery Parks Narooma has lovely cabins that sleep up to six, each with their own parking space.
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The best weekend getaways from Sydney to explore NSW
We've tried and tested these weekend escapes in New South Wales
In NSW, you don’t need to travel far to make a couple of nights away feel like a proper holiday. Whether you’re in the mood for a beach break, a hike in the mountains, or an escape to the country, we’ve found a host of getaway destinations that are easily accessible from Sydney.
Need to squeeze your excursion into a day? These are the best day trips from Sydney .
Or have an in-tents city break at one of the best camping spots near sydney ..
Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.
Weekend trips from Sydney
Lake macquarie.
![Lake Macquarie Lake Macquarie](https://media.timeout.com/images/105449596/750/422/image.jpg)
While you may only know Lake Macquarie for its expansive body of water, this unassuming region sandwiched between Sydney and Newcastle has a lot to offer city folk looking to slow down and get back to nature.
The Blue Mountains
- Boutique hotels
![The Blue Mountains The Blue Mountains](https://media.timeout.com/images/105654944/750/422/image.jpg)
For some, a trip to the Blue Mountains holds the promise of seclusion and serenity among the gum trees. For others, it’s about conquering mountain trails and spontaneously teaming up with other avid adventurers to explore the bush waterfalls, scenic vistas and swimming holes.
The South Coast
![The South Coast The South Coast](https://media.timeout.com/images/105662774/750/422/image.jpg)
Drive only two short hours south of Sydney and you’re in an adventure playground. Destination surfing spots, climbing cliffs, and coastal treks draw in those who relax by doing, but if you prefer to recline and dine, there’s fresh seafood, local produce and a burgeoning dining scene to ensure all your relaxation goals are met.
![Orange Orange](https://media.timeout.com/images/105660904/750/422/image.jpg)
Drive through cherry blossoms, lurid wattle and gold mine adjacent creeks (that still yield a nugget or two) to find some of Australia’s most interesting wines and meet the passionate makers.
![Byron Bay Byron Bay](https://media.timeout.com/images/103491773/750/422/image.jpg)
While Byron Bay’s town centre has succumbed to a backpackers-meet-the-one-per-cent influx, the lifetime fire twirlers and queer communes haven’t been completely expunged from the Byron Bay region.
The Hunter Valley
![The Hunter Valley The Hunter Valley](https://media.timeout.com/images/105944587/750/422/image.jpg)
Ah, wine country. Proud growers, wine makers and vintners from this region have been squeezing the good stuff out of grapes for close to 180 years, and it has earned the Hunter solid street cred on both Australian and international vinous scenes. With plentiful hot air ballooning, cheese and crazy good food on offer, this idyllic green corner of NSW deserves our attention.
Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass
![Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass](https://media.timeout.com/images/105457833/750/422/image.jpg)
New South Wales has some spectacular ski resorts and snow fields. You can hire all your gear at any of these spots (think skis, snow jackets, helmets – anything) and can even do it all in one day and be back home for dinner with these transfers .
![Mudgee Mudgee](https://media.timeout.com/images/104682751/750/422/image.jpg)
‘Mudgee’ comes from the Wiradjuri word ‘Moothi’ which means, romantically, ‘Nest in the Hills’. It has a climate several degrees warmer than the surrounding high country, which, along with sandy loam soil, makes the area attractive to viticulturalists.
The Hawkesbury
![The Hawkesbury The Hawkesbury](https://media.timeout.com/images/105321126/750/422/image.jpg)
Here you can walk a World Heritage convict road, sample locally brewed cider or go horseriding. Winding through it all is the river, a place for fishing, watersports or a lazy cruise amid stunning scenery.
The Central Coast
![The Central Coast The Central Coast](https://media.timeout.com/images/105662775/750/422/image.jpg)
The dining scene across the Central Coast is really hitting its stride. Thanks to some seriously talented young chefs, excellent refurbs and creative spaces, there are restaurants and cafés in Long Jetty, Avoca, Terrigal and Woy Woy that are well worth a road trip.
Hit the road
The best road trips around new south wales.
![The best road trips around New South Wales The best road trips around New South Wales](https://media.timeout.com/images/105650312/750/422/image.jpg)
Pack the boot, roll down your windows and let gorgeous scenery whizz past – be that soaring coastal cliffs, native bushland, or towering alpine forests. Trust us, no one will be asking if you're nearly there yet.
Small, but perfectly formed
The best tiny houses and cosy cabins to rent near sydney.
![The best tiny houses and cosy cabins to rent near Sydney The best tiny houses and cosy cabins to rent near Sydney](https://media.timeout.com/images/105662300/750/422/image.jpg)
We’ve rounded up some of the best tiny house escapes across New South Wales that you can knock over in a weekend getaway from Sydney. Most are perfect for a romantic escape for two adults or are the ideal retreat for solo travelers looking for the ultimate me-time. Others have a little more room so you can vaycay with friends, the kids, and even the dog.
Nomad rentals
The best caravans and campervans to hire in nsw.
![The best caravans and campervans to hire in NSW The best caravans and campervans to hire in NSW](https://media.timeout.com/images/105712840/750/422/image.jpg)
Does the idea of a road trip summon nostalgia for childhood summers spent in a caravan by the sea, or the fantasy of hitting the wide-open road in an all-in-one van and getting a break from it all with that nomad lifestyle? Try on the nomad life for size with these great rental options.
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20 Best Weekend Getaways from Sydney: Amazing NSW Destinations
by Lisa Bull | Last updated Aug 17, 2023 | Sydney Trips
![nsw weekend trips Escape the city with these 10 best weekend getaways from Sydney. Includes city breaks, lazy beach destinations and walking weekends in New South Wales.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Best-Weekend-Getways-from-Sydney.jpg)
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.
With the huge array of beautiful scenery in New South Wales, you’ll find plenty of amazing weekend getaways from Sydney to choose from. After living in Sydney for six years, I’ve compiled my favourite short breaks in NSW to help you decide where to visit!
Whether you’re looking for a luxury escape in NSW, a romantic weekend getaway from Sydney or a family holiday park , you’ll find the top coastal and country NSW holiday destinations listed in this blog post.
This list includes amazing places a short drive from Sydney, weekend getaways under 2, 3 and 4 hours from Sydney and places to visit near Sydney by train. Read on to learn more, or watch my YouTube video below!
1. Watsons Bay
- Sydney CBD to Watsons Bay distance: 12km (35 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus or 25 minutes by ferry)
If you’re looking for places to drive to in Sydney, Watsons Bay has a fantastic holiday feel that makes it a great destination for a Sydney weekend getaway; you don’t even have to leave the city!
Sitting at the tip of a peninsula, where Sydney Harbour opens out into the ocean, Watsons Bay offers dramatic views of waves crashing against The Gap cliffs on one side and sweeping vistas of the city skyline behind serene harbour waters on the other.
![nsw weekend trips Looking across Robertson Park to Sydney Harbour and the Sydney skyline.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Watsons-Bay-Sydney-Getaway.jpg)
You’ll also find a choice of beaches, including Camp Cove Beach and Lady Jane nudist beach, a scenic walk in South Head National Park to Hornby Lighthouse and a choice of restaurants.
For a romantic couples retreat in Sydney, try staying at beautiful Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel . This waterfront, 4* accommodation has harbour views, free parking and gorgeous interiors.
2. Narrabeen
- Sydney CBD to Narrabeen distance: 23km (40 minutes by car or 50 minutes by bus)
For a beach getaway in Sydney easily reached by car or bus, look further than Sydney’s Northern Beaches! Nestled between the ocean and Narrabeen Lagoon, Narrabeen has holiday vibes written all over it.
You can enjoy surfing at North Narrabeen Beach, swimming in the rock pool, hiking around Narrabeen Lagoon or a peaceful waterside picnic. For a change of scene, hop on the bus or drive up and down the peninsula for scenic walks at Palm Beach , bohemian cafes and restaurants at Avalon Beach or beachside dining at Dee Why.
![nsw weekend trips The shores of Narrabeen Lagoon, a top place to go by car in Sydney.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Narrabeen-Family-Holiday.jpg)
For a luxury weekend getaway in Sydney, stay at 4.5* Narrabeen Sands Hotel , boutique accommodation only a two-minute walk from the beach.
For a short family break on a lower budget, NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is Sydney’s only waterfront caravan park, and is within easy reach of cafes, restaurants, surfing beaches and a walking track around Narrabeen Lagoon.
3. Bundeena
- Sydney CBD to Bundeena distance: 56km (1 hour 20 minutes by car or 1 hour 45 minutes by train and ferry)
If a secluded NSW getaway with idyllic coastal scenery is what you’re after, Bundeena, at the tip of Royal National Park, is the ideal destination.
With just a small strip of cafes, shops and one IGA, the tiny, leafy village of Bundeena really is a world away from the city. Its natural surroundings make it a popular home for many artists and musicians.
![nsw weekend trips Passengers disembarking the vintage ferry in Bundeena from Cronulla.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Bundeena-Weekend-Getaway-Sydney.jpg)
Things to do in Bundeena include hiking to Wedding Cake Rock, lazing on Jibbon Beach, perusing the weekend markets and Bundeena Art Trail , or simply holing up in your accommodation for a romantic coastal retreat.
If you’re visiting with a family or group of friends, 3-bedroom Bundeena Base Holiday Home is an ideal accommodation choice, with a solar-heated pool, water views and a full kitchen.
If you’re a self-sufficient camper, bring your tent or campervan and pitch up at Bonnie Vale camping ground like I did a few years ago.
4. Austinmer
- Sydney CBD to Austinmer distance: 74km (1 hour 20 minutes by car or from 1 hour 40 minutes by train)
If you’re looking for places to drive from Sydney in under two hours, Austinmer is a great option. This beachside suburb between Sydney and Wollongong has a beautiful beach, two ocean pools, shops and cafes and a short, but steep, hike up to Sublime Point lookout.
You can also enjoy the iconic scenic drive from Sydney over Sea Cliff Bridge on the way down and easily visit the other beach areas along the Grand Pacific Drive. Austinmer is one of the best places to visit near Sydney by train, as the trainline passes through the area between Sydney and Wollongong.
![nsw weekend trips Cafes and the leafy Illawarra escarpment in Austinmer.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Austinmer-Beach-Holiday-NSW.jpg)
I camped at nearby Bulli Beach Tourist Park , which is literally right behind the beach with a fantastic beachside café and large ocean pool nearby.
5. Wollongong
- Sydney CBD to Wollongong distance: 90km (1 hour 20 minutes by car or 1 hour 30 minutes by train)
Situated as beachfront as a city can get, Wollongong not only has shops, bars and restaurants, but a choice of stunning beaches just a short walk from the CBD. It’s also one of the top places to visit near Sydney by train, as you can easily get around the compact city by foot or bus.
The leafy Illawarra escarpment gives Wollongong a beautiful mountainous backdrop, where you’ll find amazing lookout points accessible by car or walking tracks.
![nsw weekend trips The best things to do in Wollongong Australia on a trip from Sydney. Discover Wollongong beaches, botanic gardens, restaurants and more.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Things-to-Do-in-Wollongong.jpg)
If you’re after a weekend getaway from Sydney with stunning scenery, beachside cafes, coastal walks and city entertainment, Wollongong ticks all the boxes.
For a family weekend getaway or a romantic escape, try staying at the 4* Best Western City Sands within Wollongong Golf Club. The hotel is only a four-minute walk to the beach, a five-minute walk to the CBD, and all apartments have a private balcony and kitchenette.
6. Terrigal
- Sydney CBD to Terrigal distance: 95km (1 hour 25 minutes by car or 2 hours 25 minutes by train and bus)
A really fun beach holiday destination in NSW is Terrigal. With shops, cafes, restaurants and nightlife right by the beach, Terrigal is one of the livelier places on the Central Coast and would suit a group of friends or younger couple who don’t want to stay somewhere too sleepy.
![nsw weekend trips Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Terrigal-Beach-Trip.jpg)
Terrigal also has a great beach and fantastic views from the headland, so it would also be a good choice for families who need to keep children entertained.
For amazing facilities right by the beach, book a stay at Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific , a 4* hotel with a beautiful outdoor pool, day spa and fitness centre.
7. The Entrance
- Sydney CBD to The Entrance distance: 105km (1 hour 30 minutes by car or 2 hours 30 minutes by train and bus)
Lying at the northern end of Central Coast NSW, The Entrance is a top destination for a family weekend getaway in NSW.
You’ll find beautiful coastal scenery at Main Beach, as the waters from Lake Tuggerah swirls in turquoise streaks around the white sand and into the ocean. Alternatively, head to Lake Tuggerah itself for a scenic picnic or barbeque.
![nsw weekend trips Lots of pelicans at The Entrance, NSW.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/The-Entrance-Pelicans.jpg)
Take the kids to The Entrance Ocean Baths for calm and safe swimming, or watch the daily pelican feeding by Memorial Park, which is what The Entrance is best known for!
For accommodation, nearby Shelly Beach Holiday Park (3.5*) has cabins and plenty of fun facilities for children. If you’re looking for a solo trip on a budget, try a dorm at The Entrance Backpackers , which is only a two-minute walk to Main Beach.
- Sydney CBD to Kiama distance: 141km (1 hours 45 minutes by car or 2 hours 20 minutes by train)
If a combination of fantastic beaches and rolling green hills are your sort of thing, Kiama, about half an hour south of Wollongong, is one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney.
![nsw weekend trips The beautiful Kiama coastline, a scenic weekend getaway from Sydney.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Kiama-NSW-1.jpg)
Kiama not only has a decent choice of shops and restaurants in its pleasant town centre, but amazing coastal scenery and walks as well as the Kiama Blowhole! I spent a fantastic long weekend in Kiama , and the lush green scenery reminded me of the UK countryside!
For a NSW getaway without the luxury budget, try staying at Kiama Motel 617 , a 3* motel with great reviews, just 350m from Kendalls Beach.
9. Blue Mountains
- Sydney CBD to Katoomba distance: 102km (2 hours by car or 2 hours by train)
The Blue Mountains National Park is a popular destination for a day trip from Sydney and one of my personal favourites. With its huge range of walking trails and quaint country towns, there are plenty of things to do on a weekend trip to the Blue Mountains .
Pay a visit to Wentworth Falls and Echo Point for Blue Mountains walks with stunning views , or head to Leura and Katoomba for quaint little shops and cafes.
![nsw weekend trips Amazing low cloud over the mountains at one of the best NSW destinations, the Blue Mountains.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Warne-St-Blue-Mountains-Lookout.jpg)
If you’re looking for a cheap Sydney getaway, Blue Mountains Heritage Motel lies in the centre of Katoomba, the hub of the Blue Mountains, just a ten-minute walk from the Three Sisters rock formation.
For luxury accommodation, book a stay at the beautiful 4* Carrington Hotel . This heritage-listed manor has an on-site bar and brasserie, cocktail bar and spa baths in some of the rooms.
- Sydney CBD to Bowral distance: 113km (2 hours by car or from 1 hour 50 minutes by train)
Bowral, in the beautiful Southern Highlands, is an easy place to visit by train from Sydney. This quaint country town at the foot of Mount Gibraltar has a great selection of olde worlde bookshops, antique stores, cafes and boutiques.
![nsw weekend trips Visitors at Tulip Time Festival in Bowral, Australia.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Bowral-Getaway.jpg)
If you feel like exploring further, you can easily hop on the train to nearby Mittagong or drive to Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park.
I visited Bowral in September, during the annual Tulip Time Festival, which was particularly beautiful. But the Southern Highlands is a picturesque destination at any time of year.
11. Newcastle
- Sydney CBD to Newcastle distance: 162km (2 hours 30 minutes by car or 3 hours by train)
Newcastle is a great option for a fun getaway from Sydney with a group of friends. As it’s the second-largest city in New South Wales, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Newcastle .
While it looks quite industrial on first sight, Newcastle has some brilliant beaches and coastal walks, as well as the nearby Worimi Sand Dunes , which are well worth a visit. It’s a great destination for those who want a varied and lively trip away.
![nsw weekend trips Newcastle NSW foreshore walk on a cloudy day.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Newcastle-NSW-Trip.jpg)
12. Hunter Valley
- Sydney CBD to Hunter Valley (Cessnock) distance: 158km (2 hours by car or from 3 hours 30 minutes by train and bus)
Slightly inland from Newcastle lies the sprawling green expanse of the Hunter Valley. Famous for its vineyards, wine tours are a popular activity on a trip to Hunter Valley , as well as watching the sunrise from the soaring heights of a hot air balloon.
![nsw weekend trips Enjoy one of the best weekend trips in NSW with a visit to the Hunter Valley.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Hunter-Valley-Weekend-Trip-from-Sydney.jpg)
The Hunter Valley Gardens is another popular attraction, and the surrounding national parks such as Yango and Werakata offer a choice of walking tracks.
The road trip from Sydney is a treat in itself if you take Tourist Drive 33 , which winds its way through the New South Wales countryside, passing quaint little villages such as Laguna and Wollombi.
13. Kangaroo Valley
- Sydney CBD to Kangaroo Valley distance: 153km (2 hours by car or 4 hours 45 minutes by train and bus)
While the northern towns of the Southern Highlands are accessible places to visit from Sydney by train, Kangaroo Valley is a better option for a scenic drive from Sydney. Allow some time to admire your lush surroundings as you follow the slow, winding country road deep into the valley.
With cute heritage buildings and plenty of outdoor activities, such as river kayaking, Kangaroo Valley is perfect for a solo trip or couples retreat from Sydney for those who enjoy nature.
![nsw weekend trips Kangaroo Valley shops.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Sydney-Weekend-Getaways.jpg)
14. Jervis Bay
- Sydney CBD to Jervis Bay distance: 171km (3 hours by car or from 3 hours 40 minutes by train and bus)
If it’s a NSW romantic getaway you’re after, look no further than tranquil Jervis Bay. Things to do in Jervis Bay include lazing on an amazing choice of bright white beaches between Huskisson and Booderee National Park , as well as eating and shopping in Huskisson.
While the Shoalhaven region is a popular place for a NSW family getaway during the school holidays, the area remains unspoilt and much less built up than many other holiday towns in New South Wales. Out of season, Jervis Bay makes a peaceful destination for a couples’ retreat or solo traveller.
![nsw weekend trips Beautiful Jervis Bay, one of the top weekend trips from Sydney for beach lovers.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Nelson-Beach-Jervis-Bay.jpg)
You can enjoy the stunning White Sands Walk, explore even more amazing beaches and forests in Booderee National Park or head out to Beecroft Peninsula to see well-known Honeymoon Bay as well as sweeping clifftop views.
Jervis Bay is one of my personal favourite beach holiday destinations in NSW, and I’ve returned many times.
15. Booderee National Park
- Sydney CBD to Booderee National Park distance: 193km (3 hours by car)
At the southern end of Jervis Bay, you’ll find stunning Booderee National Park . Dotted with powdery white beaches, Booderee has a selection of beachside camping grounds for those who want to get back to nature.
You can also explore botanic gardens, hiking trails and some amazing sunset locations. Just be sure to book your campsite in advance during school holidays. It’s so popular over summer that a ballot system is used!
![nsw weekend trips Bright white Green Patch Beach in Booderee National Park, NSW.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Booderee-Camping-Trip-NSW.jpg)
16. Port Stephens
- Sydney CBD to Nelson Bay distance: 210km (3 hours by car or 4 hours 20 minutes by train and bus)
Even though you can reach Port Stephens in 3 hours by car from Sydney, the woolly green hills that break up the beautiful beaches of Port Stephens give the area a very different look to Sydney, with its craggy limestone headlands.
Things to do in Port Stephens include hiking to the lookout in Tomaree National Park to admire the view below, or simply lazing around on a different beach each day.
![nsw weekend trips Port Stephens, one of the best Sydney weekend getaways.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Trips-from-Sydney-Port-Stephens.jpg)
You’ll also find shops and restaurants in Nelson Bay, dolphin tours and lots of scenic drives into the surrounding NSW bushland.
Since Port Stephens sits a few hours north of Sydney, the weather should be a bit warmer than the South Coast NSW destinations such as Jervis Bay if you’re visiting in winter.
17. Myall Lakes National Park
- Sydney CBD to Myall Lakes distance: 238km (3 hours 5 minutes by car)
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in NSW, Myall Lakes National Park won’t disappoint. With a string of beautiful lakes, as well as a long stretch of beaches, lush Myall Lakes is packed with gorgeous natural scenery.
I camped at Mungo Brush , and enjoyed amazing sunsets behind White Tree Bay and sunrises over the dunes and ocean. For somewhere with more facilities, try Reflections Holiday Park Seal Rocks , which has bungalows and glamping options.
![nsw weekend trips A stunning sunset at Mungo Brush camping ground in Myall Lakes, NSW. This is one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney!](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Myall-Lakes-NSW-Destination.jpg)
18. Bathurst
- Sydney CBD to Bathurst distance: 203km (3 hours 20 minutes by car or from 3 hours 35 minutes by train)
Lying inland of the Blue Mountains, Bathurst is a city full of heritage architecture, boutique stores and great parks. You can head out to wineries, visit Orange Botanic Gardens or explore surrounding country villages such as Millthorpe.
![nsw weekend trips Heritage architecture in Bathurst, a top destination for a trip from Sydney.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Trip-to-Bathurst.jpg)
Of course, you can stop off in the Blue Mounatins on the drive from Sydney too. My favourite place near Bathurst was Sofala, a well-preserved gold mining town that looks like the set of a Wild West movie!
For accommodation on your weekend getaway from Sydney, try Quality Hotel Bathurst , a moderately priced 4* hotel with an indoor pool and choice of family rooms and suites.
19. Canberra
- Sydney CBD to Canberra distance: 286km (3 hours 30 minutes by car or 4 hours 20 minutes by train)
While it’s technically in ACT not NSW, Canberra is easily reached by car or train from Sydney, so I’m sneaking it into my best weekend getaways from Sydney list as a wild card!
You’ll find plenty of things to do in Canberra to fill a weekend trip. Lose a few hours exploring top Canberra museums, wander through art galleries, pay a visit to Parliament House or hike to Telstra Tower from the beautiful botanic gardens.
![nsw weekend trips Discover the best things to do in Canberra Australia on a weekend getaway from Sydney.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Black-Mountain-Tower-Canberra.jpg)
Canberra is great for a cultural family getaway or a solo trip. It’s also a top choice for a Sydney getaway during winter or if the weather’s wet, as there are so many indoor attractions.
I stayed at Canberra City YHA , which has modern facilities (including an indoor pool and sauna!) and a handy location right in the heart of the city.
20. Forster
- Sydney CBD to Forster distance: 304km (3 hours 45 minutes by car)
If you’re happy to drive up to four hours from Sydney for a beach holiday destination in NSW, Forster, on the Barrington Coast, is a fantastic spot. I spent a weekend in Forster in late 2021 and loved it!
![nsw weekend trips Forster Main Beach on a sunny day, a top weekend getaway from Sydney.](https://cdn-0.dreamingofdownunder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Forster-Beach-Holiday.jpg)
As well as a good selection of shops, cafes and restaurants in Forster town, the surrounding scenery is stunning. Make sure you take a scenic drive along The Lakes Way and stop off at The Green Cathedral, an outdoor church on the banks of Wallis Lake underneath a canopy of palm trees.
I stayed in the gorgeous Palmyra B&B , which is just a ten-minute drive north of Forster. This traditional accommodation has beautiful grounds, a lovely outdoor pool, stunning decor and a communal kitchen and barbecue area.
That’s it for my best weekend getaways from Sydney! For more short break ideas in New South Wales, take a look at my top Sydney day trips . Many of these can easily be extended into a fun weekend getaway!
If you want to travel further afield, take a look through all my New South Wales guides .
Happy travels!
Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.
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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!
21 Wonderful Long Weekend Escapes From Sydney
Looking for travel inspiration for the upcoming long weekend? These short trips near Sydney should do the trick.
Another long weekend is here and it’s the perfect opportunity to venture beyond the harbour city for a short escape. Luckily, Sydney is surrounded by plenty of small towns with abundant natural beauty, coastal vibes, outdoor offerings and good times. Read on to find the best long weekend escapes in NSW .
Short breaks from Sydney within two hours
1. royal national park.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224405/shutterstock_786282964-1-min-1024x575.jpg)
One of the oldest national parks in the world and Australia’s first is just an hour’s drive from Sydney. The rugged and beautiful Royal National Park is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures with many rainforests, beaches, coastal hikes and wildlife to discover. Read all about it here .
Visit it for: Bushwalks, swimming holes, lookouts and beaches.
2. Wollongong
![nsw weekend trips sea cliff bridge](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224403/shutterstock_2105351024-min-1024x768.jpg)
Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, Wollongong is the perfect coastal escape with several golden beaches including Stanwell Park Beach and Wollongong City Beach . It also has a bustling city centre with plenty to do with the family.
Visit it for: Beaches, rainforests and attractions like the Nan Tien Temple.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224401/shutterstock_1436904077-min-1024x683.jpg)
Berry is around a two-hour drive from Sydney and filled to the brim with cute activities to do. It is famous for its many antique and specialty stores , heritage buildings and wineries . Berry is a great day trip spot from Sydney if you’re looking to get away from the city for a few hours. Don’t forget to make a pitstop by its iconic donut van and Berry Markets to find something unique.
Visit it for: Cafes, boutique shops and gardens.
4. Mount Wilson
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224401/shutterstock_1088315405-min-1024x683.jpg)
The village of Mount Wilson is packed with charm and character and an excellent short getawa y from Sydney. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy stunning views of the Blue Mountains and soak up all the spring colours , especially at the beautiful Breenhold Gardens .
Visit it for: Walks, lookouts and camping.
5. Kangaroo Valley
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224400/shutterstock_1125030011-1-min-1024x666.jpg)
The small town of Kangaroo Valley is rich in village charm and wildlife and the perfect nature escape less than two hours from Sydney . Visit the heritage-listed Hampden Bridge , check out all the cafes and shops along Kangaroo Valley’s busy main street and go on a self-guided tour of the Pioneer Village Museum on your trip.
Visit it for: Rainforests, countryside, kayaking and bushwalks.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/13224502/corbett-gardens-1-1024x768.jpg)
If you love books and cafes , Bowral is the place to visit. Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, the largest town in the Southern Highlands is bursting with things to do. Get your art fix at Bowral Art Gallery or the Milk Factory Gallery , grab a coffee and bite at Plantation and stop by its many boutique stores to buy something special.
Visit it for: Bookshops, cafes, wineries and good coffee.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224359/169209-109-min-1024x684.jpg)
The small town of Bilpin lies one and a half hours from Sydney and it’s a great choice for outdoor adventure seekers . Make sure to visit Bilpin Fruit Bowl for the freshest food and veg, enjoy a picnic at the beautiful Waratah Native Garden and gaze in awe at glow worms when the sun sets.
Visit it for: Apples, countryside and bakeries.
8. Blackheath
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224358/shutterstock_1241625610-min-1024x683.jpg)
The town of Blackheath is well known for its many lookouts, walking trails and natural landscapes . Visit the Govetts Leap and Mount Blackheath lookouts for amazing views of the Blue Mountains , grab a bite at This Little Piggy Deli or buy something cool at the Victory Theatre Antique Centre .
Visit it for: Galleries, lookouts and local markets.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/23033202/174844-109-min.jpg)
The coastal town of Kiama is a 2-hour drive from Sydney and one of the most popular getaways for locals looking to escape the city. The picturesque town is home to the Kiama Blowhole and gorgeous beaches like Kiama Surf Beach and Seven Mile Beach . The Kiama Coast Walk is one of NSW’s most scenic walks with seaside vistas and unspoilt beaches.
Visit it for: Beaches, blowholes and coastal walks.
Weekend getaways further away from Sydney
10. hyams beach.
![nsw weekend trips Aerial overlooking the white sands of Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay.](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/13224248/174911-109_1_3500.0-1024x683.jpg)
Boasting some of the whitest sand in Australia and turquoise blue waters, Hyams Beach is an excellent spot to visit from Sydney. Located three hours from Sydney, the gorgeous spot in Jervis Bay is also one of the most popular in NSW so be prepared to battle the crowds, especially during warmer seasons. Read all about Hyams Beach including things to do .
Visit it for: White sands, blue waters and natural landscapes.
11. Byron Bay
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224356/shutterstock_549489649-min-1024x683.jpg)
If an 8-hour drive from Sydney is not a daunting prospect for you, the iconic coastal town of Byron Bay is a must-visit. The shopping and dining scene here is excellent but you can’t fault the beaches and the famous Cape Byron lighthouse . If you’re lucky, you could even spot a humpback whale or two between June to November.
Visit it for: Beaches, shopping and food.
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224354/shutterstock_735746701-1-min-1024x681.jpg)
The country town of Orange is one of the most popular getaways for Sydneysiders thanks to its boutique shops, beautiful gardens and local markets . It’s great to visit all year round but it’s especially popular if you’re trying to get a glimpse of snow in NSW .
Visit it for: Wineries, restaurants and natural attractions.
13. Canberra
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224355/shutterstock_1420306583-min-1024x683.jpg)
A three-hour drive from Sydney will land you in Canberra. The art galleries and exhibitions like the National Gallery of Australia and the Canberra Museum and Gallery are a must-visit. Other fun things to do include taking a tour of the Australian Parliament House , cycling around Lake Burley Griffin and hitting the wineries around town.
Visit it for: Art galleries, museums and food and wine.
14. Griffith
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224354/192873-109-min-1024x683.jpg)
Popular for being the food bowl of Australia , Griffith is an excellent family-friendly destination with a variety of outdoor experiences for kids and excellent food and wineries for adults. Go bushwalking and birdwatching at the Cocoparra National Park , about half an hour from Griffith or learn more about the region’s history at the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum .
Visit it for: Food, wineries, outdoor activities
15. Port Stephens
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224353/shutterstock_2261203539-min-1024x683.jpg)
Located about 2.5 hours from Sydney , Port Stephens has plenty of wonderful things to see and do. Stop by its lovely seaside villages like Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay and check out the majestic sand dunes of Stockton Beach and don’t forget to try sand boarding, quad and motorbike riding while there. Port Stephens is also an excellent spot for whale watching from May to November. See everything you can do in Port Stephens here .
Visit it for: Beaches, Quad biking, sand dunes
16. Grafton
![nsw weekend trips a street lined with jacaranda trees](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/13224827/jacaranda-1024x683.jpg)
Grafton is nearly a 7-hour drive from Sydney but its annual Jacaranda Festival is well worth the trip. There are vibrant blooming trees, markets, entertainment and heaps of pomp and pageantry at the 10-day event that takes place in October but it’s just as photogenic during autumn.
Visit it for: The Jacaranda Festival, arts scene
17. Coffs Harbour
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224404/shutterstock_1784941994-min-1024x683.jpg)
Nicknamed Coffs, the coastal town of Coffs Harbour is famous for many things, especially its many stunning beaches and excellent food scene . It’s also home to one of not just NSW but also Australia’s most famous “big things”, the Big Banana . The Solitary Islands Marine Park is a must-visit for its abundance of coral reefs and wildlife. Coffs Harbour is a 5-hour, forty-minute drive from Sydney.
Visit it for: Beaches, underwater adventures
18. Port Macquarie
![nsw weekend trips a sign pointing to the entrance to lighthouse beach in port macquarie, nsw](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224352/shutterstock_1383568136-min-1-1024x683.jpg)
Rich in coastal vibes and outdoor adventures, Port Macquarie is a popular getaway for Sydneysiders. It’s excellent for s wimming and water sports along with plenty of scenic hiking trails and wildlife experiences. Don’t miss out on the 19th-century Tacking Point Lighthouse and Billabong Zoo while visiting. Port Macquarie is a 4-hour, 30-minute drive from Sydney.
Visit it for: Beaches, hiking trails and natural beauty
19. Bathurst
![nsw weekend trips](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/13224351/shutterstock_2091169936-min-1024x578.jpg)
A 3-hour, 20-minute drive from Sydney will land you in Bathurst, a city famous for its food and wine scene, gold rush heritage and rural villages. It’s also the perfect destination for lovers of motor racing in Australia. Check out everything you can do in Bathurst here .
Visit it for: Museums, wine and walking tracks.
20. Broken Hill
![nsw weekend trips Sun rising over the town of Broken Hill, nsw](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/13162249/155895-109-1024x683.jpg)
Why travel all the way to outback NSW you ask? This historic town has just nabbed second place in the Wotif Aussie Town of the Year awards and it’s well worth a long weekend trip. Famous for its connection to Hollywood – blockbusters like Mad Max 2 and Priscilla Queen of the Desert were filmed here, Broken Hill is also known for being Australia’s oldest mining town with plenty of history and dramatic landscapes on offer for out-of-towners. Sydney to Broken Hill is a long 12-hour drive or a 2-hour long flight.
Visit it for: Living Desert Sculptures and mining history
21. White Cliffs
![nsw weekend trips a car driving through the town of white cliffs in outback nsw](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/13191037/179978-109-1-1024x683.jpg)
Another outback NSW spot you have to see to believe is White Cliffs where life is lived underground and you can get your hands on rare opals if you’re lucky. You can even book a room at the White Cliffs Underground Motel and experience a slice of underground living yourself. Don’t forget to book a guided opal tour while you’re there. Read all about this unique NSW town here .
Visit it for: opal fields, underground living and desert landscapes
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37 Best Weekend Getaways From Sydney 2024 Guide
Looking for inspiration for the best weekend getaways from Sydney? Having explored a lot of incredible places in New South Wales, we’re going to break it all down so you’ll know exactly where to spend your future weekend trips.
To make it easier for you, skip to weekend getaways from Sydney within 1hr drive, 2hr drive, 3hr drive and 3hr+ drives (perfect for long weekends from Sydney or places to visit in Sydney on public holidays). We’re giving you a short run down on each place and where to stay.
You can find detailed guides on our site for the majority of places we mention in this post.
And, to make it super easy for you if you’re unsure which Sydney getaway is best for you, you’ll find our summary for different types of people. Expect to find the best family getaways from Sydney, romantic weekends from Sydney, best weekends from Sydney with public transport, best for hikes, camping and so much more!
Table of Contents
Short Trips From Sydney Within 1hr
Discover short trips from Sydney within 1 hour for those who might not usually venture further away than your local suburbs in Sydney.
1. Scotland Island
Distance from Sydney: 40 min drive // Northern Beaches Perfect for: Couples weekend getaway from Sydney
Scotland Island in Sydney is one of those hidden gems! Located in Pittwater, and just a bit further south from Palm Beach is an island which will make you feel like you’re a million miles away. This Sydney getaway is all about relaxing and enjoying the beauty of Pittwater. We’ve been here twice and would easily go back in a heartbeat! Hire a kayak to nearby beaches, spend about 40 minutes walking around the island, simply sit back on a jetty and enjoy a beautiful sunset! Scotland Island Restaurants There’s no restaurants on the island, but eat at Church Point Wharf or Pasadena at Church Point (both are excellent). Pasadena is the perfect place for afternoon sundowners.
Where to stay in Scotland Island We stayed at Scotland Island Lodge which is run by a lovely British couple (book the room with the outdoor spa!).
Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a bus to Church Point, then jump on the 10 minute ferry ride over to Scotland Island. If parking, you’ll have to pay for parking at the car park at the wharf, or park a good 5 – 10 minutes away for free parking.
Read Our Scotland Island Guide: Why You Need To Visit Scotland Island In Sydney
2. Avalon Beach
Distance from Sydney: 45 min drive // Northern Beaches Perfect for: Beach lovers!
![avalon-beach-northern-beaches-sydney - Londoner In Sydney avalon-beach-northern-beaches-sydney](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12161815/avalon-beach-northern-beaches-sydney.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
One of our favourite parts of the Northern Beaches in Sydney is without a doubt Avalon Beach. With beautiful shops, cafes and restaurants to choose from, walk down Old Barrenjoey Road to discover it all. Drive five minutes up the road over to Pittwater side and discover beautiful beaches including family friendly Clareville Beach, and our personal favourite Paradise Beach nearby for quieter swimming options.
We were really impressed with the food options in Avalon. Koto is where you’ll find one of the best acai bowls in Sydney! Head to Sunset Diner for burgers and Alma for Mexican.
Where to stay in Avalon Beach Camping: NRMA Lakeside Caravan Park Mid-Range: Metro Mirage Hotel In Newport // Scandi Beach Apartment Luxury: Avalon Pool Shack
Public Transport friendly? Yes! You’ll need to take a couple of buses to get to Avalon Beach!
Read Our Guides For Avalon Beach
- 13 Best Avalon Beach Restaurants You Need To Try!
- Ultimate Guide To Northern Beaches In Sydney
- 15 Best Northern Beaches Walks
3. Palm Beach In Sydney
Distance from Sydney: 1hr drive // Northern Beaches Perfect for: Beach lovers, camping, foodies, hikers
Although Palm Beach is another fantastic day trip from Sydney , it also makes one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney too! Take the boat over to Great Mackerel Beach and discvoer the walking trails over to Resolute Beach (although not suitable for young children). Check out The Bible Garden, hire a SUP board in Clareville, and of course hike up to the top of Barrenjoey Lighthouse! Where to stay in Palm Beach Camping: The Basin Campground Budget: YHA Pittwater // Sandy Bottoms Guesthouse Mid-Range: The Retreat At Palm Beach Luxury: Iluka Retreat Apartments // Lilypad House Boat
Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a direct bus to Palm Beach from Sydney.
Watch our video to Resolute Beach from Palm Beach!
Read Our Palm Beach Guides:
- Best Things to do in Palm Beach guide
4. Hawkesbury River
Distance from Sydney: 1h drive to Brooklyn // North of Sydney Perfect for: Affordable cruises, experience on house boats
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The Hawkesbury River is such an underrated getaway from Sydney. Expect to discover loads of relaxing activities, perfect for everyone! We absolutely loved the Riverboat Postman Cruise. You’ll spend the morning helping the postman deliver the post to the residents around the Hawkesbury River. It’s a great activity for kids, but it’s also pretty cheap which includes either morning tea or lunch.
Also, head over to Dangar Island and spend a few hours on the walking trails or hire a kayak to explore further. Where to stay in Hawkesbury River Budget: Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley Mid-Range to Luxury: Hire a house boat Public Transport Friendly? It’s so easy to to get to Hawkesbury River, take a 1 hour train to Brooklyn Station, which is conveniently over the road from the Riverboat Postman cruise! Read Our Hawkesbury River Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Going On The Riverboat Postman Cruise
5. Royal National Park
Distance: 1h // South Sydney Perfect for: Hiking & wild swimming
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The Royal National Park tends to be another day trip from Sydney, but don’t let it put you off from one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney! With campsites within the national park and accommodation nearby, spend a gorgeous weekend getaway exploring the hikes and swimming in the world’s second oldest national park.
There are so many hikes in the Royal National Park, some of our favourites include The Figure 8 Rock Pool, Wedding Cake Rock and so many more. Discover some of the best waterfalls in Sydney you can swim in and of course hire a rowing boat at Audley for a fun day floating down the river. Or spend the weekend at a beautiful wellness retreat in Royal National Park, eating vegan food, doing yoga and kayaking at The Heart & Soul Retreat. Where to stay in Royal National Park Camping: Camp at North Era Campground or Uloola Falls Campground Mid-Range: Spend time at the Heart & Soul Retreat in Otford // Royal National Park Cottages Luxury: Cliff Top Home In Otford Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a train to Cronulla, then the ferry to Bundeena. Read Our Royal National Park Guides Below
- 15 Best Walks In Royal National Park
- 16 Best Waterfalls In Sydney To Swim In
- 13 Tips For Figure 8 Pools
- Palona Cave Walk
- How To Get To Wedding Cake Rock
Getaways From Sydney Within 2 Hours
To be honest, most of the best weekend getaways from Sydney are located just 1h30m or up to 2 hours from the city. This means you can take the whole family on a beautiful holiday from Sydney without having to spend the whole weekend driving.
6. Blue Mountains
Distance from Sydney: 1h30m // Blue Mountains Perfect For: Everyone!
Although Blue Mountains makes a great day trip from Sydney , don’t underestimate what a jammed packed weekend you could have! Please don’t just go to Three Sisters and wonder down the main street in Katoomba, there is so much waiting for you. The good news is, we have so many articles for you to read, let’s help you out with where to start for the perfect winter getaway.
If you’re looking for a cheap weekend getaway, check out our hiking and camping itinerary for a weekend exploring bush walks in Blue Mountains National Park. You’ll find the best Blue Mountains campgrounds, where to eat, hike and so much more. We recommend checking out our guides below for what to do and see and for those looking for a romantic weekend getaway as well. Blue Mountains Accommodation Budget: YHA Blue Mountains (we’ve personally stayed here) Mid Range: Fairmont Resort Luxury: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa
Public Transport friendly? Yes! It is easy to get to from Sydney! Simply take a direct train from Sydney and you’ll be there in 2 hours!
Read Our Guides Below
- 10 Best Blue Mountains Lookouts
- How To Spend A Weekend Hiking In Blue Mountains
- 30 Best Hikes In Blue Mountains
- 30 Awesome Things To Do In Blue Mountains
- Where To Stay In Blue Mountains
- 15 Things To Know About Grand Canyon Walk In Blue Mountains
- How To Get To The Bottom Of Wentworth Falls
- 30 Best Romantic Ideas For A Weekend In Blue Mountains
7. Pearl Beach
Distance from Sydney: 1h15m // North of Sydney Perfect for: beach lovers & camping
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We couldn’t believe how gorgeous Pearl Beach in Sydney really is! This little gem feels like you’re a million miles away from Sydney, even if you can see Palm Beach across the water. Enjoy relaxing on Pearl Beach, go on a hike down to Warrah Lookout before reaching Patonga Beach. Stop for lunch at The Boathouse at Patonga and enjoy the beautiful water views while enjoying the perfect Sydney weekend getaway.
Pearl Beach Accommodation Camping: Patonga Campground Mid-range: Wildwood Luxury: Bells At Killcare Boutique Hotel (Adults only)
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! A combination of train and bus will take over two hours to get to the beautiful Pearl Beach.
8. Wisemans Ferry
Distance from Sydney: 1h20m // North of Sydney Perfect for: Hiking, family getaway
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Wisemans Ferry is a gorgeous part of Sydney and New South Wales. Located just 1h20m away from the city, enjoy hiking, beautiful campgrounds and historical sites. You can’t come here and not do the UNESCO Old Great North Road Walk in Dharug National Park. This incredible bush walk extends to 260km up the coast, so tackle a shorter part of it to Hangmans Rock. This 3h30m walk will take you along the remnants of convict life.
If you’re not interested in hiking, enjoy kayaking down the Hawkesbury River instead! And if you have kids, take them to Tobruk Farm for a bit of fun getting up close to loads of animals.
Wisemans Ferry Accommodation Camp at Mill Creek Campground, Koveda Holiday Park or Del Rio Resort . Or, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, stay in a Hawkesbury River House Boat!
Mid-Range: The Retreat At The Wisemans Luxury: Secluded Waterfront House On Rainforest Acerage
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It will take around 3 hours to get there by train and bus.
9. Avoca Beach
Distance: 1h20m // Central Coast, North of Sydney Perfect for: Beach getaway
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Avoca Beach is a beautiful little beach town, nestled in the Central Coast NSW. It’s got a gorgeous market and honestly feels like a little Byron Bay at times. This is a gorgeous Sydney getaway you need to put on your list. Scuba dive at the EX-HMAS Adelaide, check out the views at Captain Cook Lookout, have fun at Aqua Lake, visit the gorgeous Avoca Beach Picture House and swim at the many beaches in the area. Where to stay in Avoca Beach Budget: Avoca Beach Hotel // The Palms At Avoca Mid-Range: Avoca Palms Resort Luxury: Avoca Heights Ocean Views Public Transport friendly? Yes! A train and bus ride will take 2h20m from Sydney.
Read Our Avoca Beach Guide: Best Things To Do In Avoca Beach
10. Long Jetty
Distance: 1h30m // Central Coast, North of Sydney Perfect for: Hipsters / vintage lovers
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Although we’ve been to Central Coast loads before, we recommend checking out the hip Long Jetty. Although it’s known as ‘the Newtown of the Central Coast’, expect to find cool street art, vintage shops, yoga studios, healing & tarot shops, lots of independent kids clothing stores, homeware shops and awesome Long Jetty restaurants and cafes.
Check out the jetty at Long Jetty to top up your insta feed, take photos of the famous Long Jetty mural outside Green Tangerine Cafe & outside Reapers Barbers. Visit, Long Jetty Vintage shop, book a seat at The Savoy Cinema, shop at Plain Janes & Shadow Bang for cool clothing and homewares, and don’t forget to visit A Dash Of Christmas which is an amazing grotto style Christmas shop open on weekends! If you’re looking to find the best beach in Central Coast near to Long Jetty, go to Toowoon Bay.
Long Jetty Accommodation Mid-Range: Oaks The Entrance Waterfront Suites Luxury: Long Jetty Beach House
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It takes about 2h20m to get to Long Jetty from Sydney with a combination of a train and bus.
Read Our Long Jetty Guide: The Ultimate Guide To Long Jetty In Central Coast NSW
11. Lake Macquarie
Distance from Sydney: 1h30m // North of Sydney Perfect for: Discovering hidden gems, beaches and caves
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There are loads of amazing beaches, national parks and so much more to visit around Lake Macquarie. Situated just south of Newcastle, you’ll find the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere! It’s twice the size of Sydney Harbour and is absolutely beautiful, especially at sunset.
Check out the caves at Caves Beach & Ghosties Beach, swim under the pier at Catherine Hill Bay, drive your 4×4 onto Redhead Beach, swim in the rock pools at Bongon Beach and surf at Frazer Beach. We must admit, Lake Macquarie is home to some of the best beaches in Sydney! All of the above beaches are absolutely beautiful, making it a perfect weekend getaway. Where to stay in Lake Macquarie: Stay at Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows .
Public Transport friendly? Yes! You can take a train and a couple of buses to get to Lake Macquarie, but to really explore the area, it’s best to have a car. Read Our Lake Macquarie Guides
- 10 Best Beaches in Newcastle
- 10 Best Secluded Beaches In Sydney
12. Newcastle
Distance: 2h drive // North of Sydney Perfect for: City break without feeling like you’re in a city
![Newcastle-sunset - Londoner In Sydney Newcastle-sunset](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12165210/Newcastle-sunrise-13.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
After living in Newcastle on an off for the last few years (Steve’s family are based here), I must admit it’s an underrated city near to Sydney. One of my favourite things to do in Newcastle is to take my yoga mat down to Bar Beach at sunrise and go for a swim after I’ve perfected my sun salutes! I also love shopping at Sourced Vintage tshirt shop on Darby Street, running from Merewether to Nobby’s Lighthouse and checking out the incredible beaches in Newcastle as well. Where to stay in Newcastle Mid-Range: Rydges Newcastle Luxury: Novotel Newcastle
Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a 2h30m train from Sydney to Newcastle
Read Our Newcastle Guides
- 38 Best Things To Do In Newcastle
- Best Beaches in Newcastle
13. Hunter Valley
Distance: 2h drive // North of Sydney Perfect for: Wine lovers & families
The Hunter Valley always makes it to the top of the best weekend getaways in Sydney list because it’s home to the some of the best wineries in Australia! As a popular wedding destination in Sydney as well, Hunter Valley packs a punch for an excellent weekend away from Sydney.
Go to Hunter Valley Gardens, and at Christmas they have a massive light display. Go on a sunrise hot air balloon ride, watch a famous band at A Day On The Green (we saw The Rolling Stones there a few years back!), and check out the following wineries: Tempus Two winery, Miguigans winery and Brokenwood Winery.
Where to stay in Newcastle Budget: Sir Francis Drake Mid-Range: Chateau Elan Luxury: Spicers Vineyard Estate
Public Transport friendly? No, but check out these day trips to Hunter Valley below.
Read Our Hunter Valley Guides
- 13 Best Things To Do In Hunter Valley
- Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride In Hunter Valley Review
14. Wollongong & Kiama
Distance: 1h30m drive // South of Sydney Perfect for: culture, waterfalls, hikes, families
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Wollongong in NSW is an underrated weekend from Sydney. Start with the Grand Pacific Drive and enjoy driving along the coast and over the famous Sea Cliff Bridge. Stop off at Sri Venkateswara Temple and Kelly’s Falls, before checking out Simbio Wildlife Park. Continue on to the blow hole in Kiama and head inland to the brilliant Jamberoo water park and Illawara Fly Tree Walk. Wollongong Accommodation Mid-Range: Sage Hotel Wollongong Luxury: Novotel Wollongong Public Transport friendly? Yes! It’s a 1h30m direct train ride from Sydney to Wollongong!
Read our Guides:
- Best Things To Do In Kiama
- Best Things To Do in Wollongong
15. Southern Highlands
Distance from Sydney: 1h30m // Southern Highlands Perfect for: Country getaway for everyone, especially foodies
If you’re missing UK, head down to Southern Highlands and you’ll feel like you’re in the countryside. As Bowral is the main hub in the Southern Highlands, you’ll find more cafes and restaurants here than any other town in the area, as well as plenty of activities to keep you busy!
Head to Green Lane which sort of reminds me of The Grounds of Alexandria, but complete with gorgeous restaurant and cafes, plant and flower shops and Dirty Janes antique shop. Check out the famous Bradman museum of cricket, the amazing Tudor style antique shop Lancelot Hill, and explore plenty of hikes including, Box Vale Walking Track, 40 Foot Falls and 60 Foot Falls.
Don’t forget to visit Kangaroo Valley, Robertson and Berrima as well for beautiful pubs, amazing waterfalls, the stunning Kangaroo River and much more. Bowral Accommodation Budget: Briars Country Lodge Mid-Range: Ascot Road Luxury: Hall House Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a direct train to Bowral from Sydney!
Read our Southern Highlands guides
- 28 Best Things To Do In Bowral
- Best Things To Do In Robertson
- Best Things To Do In Kangaroo Valley
- Best Kangaroo Valley Waterfalls
- Ultimate Guide For Visiting Southern Highlands
16. Sunnatarum
Distance: 1h30m drive // Southern Highlands
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If you’re looking for a meditation retreat near Sydney, you absolutely must go to Sunnatarum Forest Monastery in Bundanoon. We’ve been three times now because it’s that good. This donation based retreat is held at a Thai Buddhist Monastery. On a good day, you’ll be able to see out to Jervis Bay! Expect a schedule consisting of sitting and walking meditation, Thai Chi and Buddhist teachings. A weekend here and you’ll feel like you’ve been away for ages. You won’t regret it!
Cost: Donation Based Publish Transport? Yes! Catch the train to Bundanoon from Sydney and you’ll be able to organise a lift with the organisers to the retreat. Read: What To Expect At Sunnatarum Forest Monastery In Bundanoon
Distance from Sydney: 2hr drive // Southern Highlands Perfect For: Couples, foodies
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It’s no wonder Berry is one of the most beautiful getaways from Sydney. Although it’s kinda obvious Berry is a tourist town, it’s a beautiful one you could easily spend the weekend at.
The most popular draw card to Berry is the famous Berry Doughnut Van. We lined up feeling quite sceptical about the whole thing, but I must admit, those cinnamon doughnuts are really worth talking about. Hike to the beautiful Drawing Room Rocks, do wine tasting at Silo Estate Winery (one of the best wineries in NSW), and shop at the gorgeous shops in Berry. Berry Accommodation
Mid-Range: Belvoir Pavilions Luxury: The Drawing Rooms Of Berry
Public Transport friendly? Yes! Take a 3hr train and bus ride to Berry from Sydney.
Read our Berry Guide: 21 Best Things To Do In Berry
18. Japanese Bath House
Distance: 2hr drive // Blue Mountains Perfect for: Couples, girls weekend away
The Japanese Bath House in Blue Mountains is a fantastic weekend getaways from Sydney for spa lovers. We feel it deserves its own title in this article because you could spend days relaxing in the hot pools overlooking Lake Lyell.
Situated a 40 minute drive from Katoomba, this traditional onsen is a fantastic escape from Sydney. With loads of hot baths to choose from, there’s a gorgeous tea room to chill out in and relax after a dip in the pools and a massage. Either make it a day trip from Sydney or spend the weekend staying in the Japanese style accommodation at the spa.
Read our review of Japanese Bath House In Blue Mountains
Weekend Getaways From Sydney Within 3 Hours
19. port stephens.
Distance: 2h30m // North of Sydney Perfect for: Everyone, particularly families
Port Stephens is a really popular Sydney getaway for a lot of people because it offers up so much for a weekend away. With plenty of resorts to choose from, gorgeous beaches and loads of family friendly activities, the islands honestly transports me to Krabi in Thailand.
Make sure you go to Anna Bay for sand duning on the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. You can also go swimming with dolphins with one of the only companies in NSW. Hike up to the top of Mount Tomaree and of course discover some of the incredible beaches. Port Stephens Accommodation Mid-Range: Ramada Resort Luxury: Salt At Shoal Bay
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! You can take a train and bus, but expect it to take at least 4 hours.
Read our Port Stephens guide : Best Things To Do In Port Stephens
20. Seal Rocks
Distance: 3h // North of Sydney Perfect For: Beach holiday, camping, surfing
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I remember Steve’s cousin telling us about Seal Rocks and it was on our list for ages. When we went to visit, we couldn’t believe how amazing this place truely is. It’s one of those special places in NSW which you’ll want to come back time and time again, perfect for beach and camping getaways and for surfing too.
Seal Rocks is all about the beach. Bring your surfboard and enjoy some of the best surf in Sydney. Walk up to the top of the Lighthouse and if you’ve got a 4×4, drive along the beach.
Seal Rocks Accommodation
Budget: Blueys Motel Mid-Range: The Shaka Shack Luxury: Boat Beach Surf Shack
Public Transport Friendly? Unfortunately not, but hire a car from here .
Read: Best Things To Do In Seal Rocks
21. Blueys Beach
Distance: 3h // North of Sydney Perfect For: Beach holiday, surfing
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We spent a couple of months in Blueys Beach and we just couldn’t get over how gorgeous this little gem truely is. Instead of staying in Forster, stay in Blueys Beach instead. Whilst Blueys Beach is the main little hub of the area, there are about five beaches back to back including Blueys Beach which are all incredible. Just make sure you also check out the gorgeous Boomerang Beach as well, making this area a fantastic long weekend getaway.
Blueys Beach Accommodation Mid-Range: Blueys Retreat Luxury: The Headland House
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It will take at least 5 hours with a combination of bus and train to get to Blueys Beach.
Read Our Blueys Beach Guide: Best Things To Do In Blueys Beach
22. Mount Wilson
Distance: 2h20m drive // Blue Mountains Perfect for: Anyone who loves English Countryside or gardens
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Mount Wilson in Blue Mountains is a magical place. This hidden gem is so beautiful, it honestly reminds me of the English countryside. Visit during Spring or Autumn and enjoy the trees changing colour. There are quite a few gardens in Mount Wilson to visit. We’ve been to Breenhold Gardens in Autumn and Spring and they are absolutely beautiful! But to stay in Mount Wilson would be the perfect Sydney weekend getaway. I can only imagine how romantic is would truly be to wake up and go on an early morning walk with the Autumn or Spring leaves all around.
Mount Wilson Accommodation Mid-Range: Browns Cottage Luxury: Gowan Ross Cottage Public Transport friendly? Unfortunately not
Read : Why You Need To Visit Breenhold Gardens In Mount Wilson
23. Mollymook
Distance from Sydney: 3hr drive // South Coast Perfect for: Couples weekend from Sydney and families
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Just below Jervis Bay is one of the best getaways in New South Wales called Mollymook. Expect beautiful beaches, loads of kid friendly activities and so much more for a couples getaway or family weekend away.
Things to do in Mollymook Mollymook is all about sitting back and relaxing. If you’re looking for a couples weekend away, look no further. Learn to surf, visit Spa By The Sea or go on a wine tour to nearby wineries with Wine Knot Tour. A bit further up the coast is a magical rockpool called Mermaid Lagoon in Berrara, with crystal clear turquoise water!
Mollymook Accommodation Stay at Bannisters By The Sea for the ultimate romantic getaway from Sydney!
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It will take more than 5 hours to catch a train and multiple buses.
24. Jervis Bay
Distance: 2h30m drive // South of Sydney Perfect for: Beach lovers, families
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It’s no wonder Jervis Bay is known as ‘The Whistundays of NSW’. Having been to both recently again, we had totally forgotten how amazing Jervis Bay really is. It’s an incredibly special part of NSW, everyone needs to visit! The White Sands Walk is a gorgeous walk which ticks off some of the incredible beaches in Jervis Bay including the Whitest Sand Beach In The World – Hyams Beach. As one of the best weekend escapes, don’t miss out on the dolphin and whale watching tours .
Jervis Bay Accommodation Budget: Huskisson Beach Bed & Breakfast Mid-range: Worrowing Jervis Bay Luxury: Paperbark Camp
Public Transport Friendly? Although it’s difficult to get to Jervis Bay via public transport, take this Jervis Bay tour from Sydney instead!
Read Our Jervis Bay Guide: 25 Best Things To Do In Jervis Bay
25. Canberra
Distance: 3h drive // ACT
Perfect For: City getaway for art lovers and families.
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Canberra is easily one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney, especially if you’re into art. Go to National Gallery Of Australia and stand in awe of global artists such as James Turrell, Yayoi Kusama and so much more! Explore the street art, vintage shops, museums and of course Parliament House and you’ve got yourself a jammed packed weekend ahead.
Canberra Accommodation Ovolo Nishi is our go to hotel in Canberra. This is a one of a kind hotel you’ll want to photograph for hours.
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! A direct train from Sydney will take around 4 hours.
Read Our Canberra Guides
- 27 Amazing Things To Do In Canberra
- What To Expect A Floriade Festival In Canberra
- Why You Should Stay At Ovolo Nishi Hotel
26. Wombeyan Caves
Distance: 3h drive // South West of Sydney Perfect for: hiking, camping, wild swimming, caves
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Wombeyan Caves is a little hidden gem near Sydney. You’ll find less people here than at the neighbouring Jenolan Caves, plus you can visit the caves on self guided tours. When we visited, we were the only people in the caves – it was amazing!
Wombeyan Caves is all about the caves. You can go on guided and self guided tours around the different caves here. Plus, if you’re visiting in Summer, embrace the Mares Forest Creek Canyon and hike and swim your way through the ice cold water. It’s one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done near to Sydney!
Wombeyan Caves Accommodation Book into Wombeyan Caves Campground .
Public Transport Friendly? Unfortunately not
Read Our Guides For Wombeyan Caves
- Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Wombeyan Caves
- Tips For Swimming In The Mares Forest Creek Canyon
Distance: 3h drive // North West of Sydney Perfect for: Hiking & camping
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Newnes is one of the best camping getaways from Sydney. The free campsite is incredible and the Wolgan Valley is breathtaking. There is a river next to the campsite so you could spend the day sitting in it to cool down after one of the many hikes to choose from. We hiked to the glow worm tunnels which takes you along the old railway tracks. It’s beautiful!
Newnes Accommodation Camp at Newnes Campground (free to camp but you must book beforehand) Stay In A Nearby Bubble Tent Splash out at the nearby Emirates One & Only
Read Our Newnes Guide: Newnes Glow Worm Tunnel Walk Tips
Long Weekend Getaways From Sydney 3+ Hours
Consider the below weekend getaways from Sydney which are between 3 and 5 hours driving time. Although driving for more than three hours might not be on top of your list, the below places in NSW are definitely worth a visit on a long weekend from Sydney.
Distance from Sydney: 3h30m drive // West Sydney Perfect For: Couples, foodies, wine lovers
![Lowe-Family-Estate-swing-mudgee - Londoner In Sydney Lowe-Family-Estate-swing-mudgee](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12153953/Lowe-Family-Estate-swing-mudgee-1-1024x683.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Mudgee is one of those weekend getaways from Sydney, perfect for couples, foodies and wine lovers. Start your trip to Mudgee by visiting Logan Wines and Lowe Family Estate, two of the big hitters when it comes to Mudgee wineries. For the adventureres, check out plenty of walks including: Castle Rocks, The Drip Walk to Aboriginal rock art and Wellington Caves.
Mudgee Accommodation The Woolpack Hotel
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! Expect to take a little over 5 hours to get to Mudgee via train and busses.
Read Our Mudgee Guide: 10 Best Things To Do In Mudgee
Distance from Sydney: 3h30m drive // West of Sydney Perfect for: Foodies, wine lovers
![Orange-nsw - Londoner In Sydney Orange-nsw](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12151857/Orange-nsw-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Orange is a foodie haven, complete with boutique breweries, cider houses and wineries. Head over to Small Acres Cyder, Badlands Brewery for cider and beer tasting as well as Nashdale Wines Cellar Door. There are so many amazing Orange wineries and cellar doors to check out, so could literally spend the entire weekend go around them all.
Orange Accommodation Byng Street Boutique Hotel
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! You can take a direct train to Orange which will take nearly 5 hours!
30. Barrington Tops
Distance from Sydney: 4hr drive // North of Sydney Perfect For: People who prefer a bit off the beaten path.
![barrington-tops - Londoner In Sydney barrington-tops](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12160750/barrington-tops-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Barrington Tops tends to make the lists as one of the best national parks in Australia, and you’ll see why when you visit. We were blown away by this Gondwana National Park because it honestly feels like you’ve been transported to the Jurassic era.
Barrington Tops is all about camping and hiking. We did the Antarctic Beech Tree Forest Walk which took around 2hours. There is a waterfall you can swim in on this walk, but check first as at the time of visiting it was closed.
Barrington Tops Accommodation Camp at Barrington Tops and enjoy being in the heart of one of the best national parks in Australia.
31. Port Macquarie
Distance from Sydney: 4hr drive // Mid-North Coast Perfect For: Families
![port-macquarie - Londoner In Sydney port-macquarie](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12151852/r0_191_2048_1342_w1200_h678_fmax-1024x575.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Port Macquarie might be best known for the koala rescue centres, but it’s also a fantastic family getaway from Sydney. Choose between 17 beaches, plenty of restaurants and so much more in this popular beach town.
Port Macquarie Accommodation Mid-Range: Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel Luxury: Sails Port Macquarie
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It’s a 7h30m train and bus ride to Port Macquarie
Read our guide: 21 Best Things To Do In Port Macquarie
32. South West Rocks
Distance from Sydney: 4h45m drive // Mid-North Coast Perfect for: scuba diving, hiking, camping, beach lovers and families
![south-west-rocks-1 - Londoner In Sydney south-west-rocks-1](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12160945/south-west-rocks-1-1-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
We heard about South West Rocks a while back and knew we had to visit. We were blown away by this little slice of heaven. With incredible beaches, fantastic campsites and so much more, it makes one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney!
Check out the famous Trial Bay Gaol, an historical prison you can visit and wonder around. The beach at Trial Bay is fantastic and flat – perfect for families. Go up to the top of Smokey Cape Lighthouse and feel like you’re on the edge of the world.
South West Rocks Accommodation Camping: Trial Bay Campground / Horseshoe Bay Campground Mid-Range: Heritage Guesthouse Luxury: Salt At South West Rocks
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! It will take over 8 hours to catch a train and bus to South West Rocks!
Read Our South West Rocks Guide: 25 Best Things To Do In South West Rocks
33. Nambucca Heads & Valla
Distance from Sydney: 5hr drive // Mid-North Coast Perfect For: Families, beach lovers
![weekend-getaways-from-sydney-nambucca-heads - Londoner In Sydney weekend-getaways-from-sydney-nambucca-heads](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12151845/weekend-getaways-from-sydney-nambucca-heads.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Nambucca Heads is a relaxed beach town on the Mid-North Coast. Just a 10 minute drive from there is the beautiful beach town of Valla Beach. It’s a stunning quiet beach with a couple of places to eat at. Head over to the V-Wall, a beautiful walk along the coast with an art gallery of painted rocks. Passerbys are encourage to leave their piece of art on the rocks as a memory of their time in Nambucca Heads.
Nambucca Heads Accommodation The Cubana Resort Nambucca Heads
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! A direct train from Sydney to Nambucca Heads takes just under 8 hours.
Read our guide : 20 Best Things To Do In Nambucca Heads
34. Bellingen & Dorrigo
Distance from Sydney: 5h20m drive // Mid-North Coast Perfect for: hiking, waterfalls
![things-to-do-in-bellingen-nsw - Londoner In Sydney things-to-do-in-bellingen-nsw](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12161044/things-to-do-in-bellingen-nsw-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Bellingen is one of the best towns in NSW! We literally nearly moved there, but then the pandemic happened so we couldn’t. This hippy town is home to some of the best hikes in NSW, waterfalls, wild swimming spots and fantastic places to eat and drink.
Things to do in Bellingen & Dorrigo Book kayaks and float down the Bellinger River, drive out to The Promised Lands in Gleniffer (there’s something really special about this area), swim at Danger Falls, do the Crystal Showers Falls hike in Dorrigo.
Bellingen Accommodation Budget: The Belfry Guesthouse Luxury: Promised Land Retreat
Public Transport Friendly? Yes! A combination of train and bus will take at least 8 hours to get to Bellingen.
For More Information About Bellingen Read Our Guides 27 Best Things To Do In Bellingen Why You Need To Stay At The Belfry Guesthouse In Bellingen How To Get To The Bottom Of Dangar Falls 10 Things To Know About Crystal Showers Falls Walk In Dorrigo
35. Warrumbungles
Distance from Sydney: 5h10m drive // Orana Region Perfect for: Hiking, star gazing, camping
![Warrumbungle-national-park-breadknife-walk - Londoner In Sydney Warrumbungle-national-park-breadknife-walk](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12152637/1200px-Warrumbungle_breadknife-1024x685.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
The Warrumbungle National Park is known as one of the best National Parks in NSW. Although it was relatively unknown by many people until recently, the Breadknife Walk went viral on social media and it’s become really popular. Affectionately known as The Warrumbungles, it’s also home to the first dark sky park in Australia because of the amazing amount of stars in the sky.
Warrumbungles Accommodation It’s all about camping at Warrumbungle National Park!
Public Transport Friendly? Unfortunately you’ll need to hire a car to get to Warrumbungles.
Read Our Warrumbungles Guide: 10 Best Warrumbungles Walks You Need To Explore
36. Kanangra Boyd National Park
Distance: 4h drive // Greater Blue Mountains Perfect For: Explorers & Camping
![KANGANGR-WALLS-KANANGRA-BOYD-NATIONAL-PARK - Londoner In Sydney KANGANGR-WALLS-KANANGRA-BOYD-NATIONAL-PARK](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/12161453/KANGANGR-WALLS-KANANGRA-BOYD-NATIONAL-PARK.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Kanangra-Boyd National Park is known as a bit of a gem near to Blue Mountains. Just a 40 minute drive from the popular Jenolan Caves will bring you to Kangangra Walls Lookout. It honestly made us wonder whether we had been transported to Borneo because the views really are jaw-dropping. Put it on your list to visit for your future Sydney weekend getaways.
Kanangra Boyd National Park Accommodation You can camp near to the Kanangra Walls Lookout, just bring everything with you as it’s a basic campsite.
Public Transport Friendly? Unfortunately you’ll need to hire a car to get to Kanangra-Boyd National Park.
Read Our Kanangra Boyd National Park Guide: How To Visit Kanangra Walls At Kanangra Boyd National Park
37. South Coast Region
Distance from Sydney: 5hr drive to Bermagui // South Coast Perfect for: Families, camping, hiking, beaches, foodies
![things-to-do-in-narooma - Londoner In Sydney things-to-do-in-narooma](https://cdn.londonerinsydney.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/12135700/DJI_0111-1024x683.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Known for its sublime beaches, you could easily spend a couple of weeks exploring the South Coast. The main towns people stay in South Coast tend to be around Batemans Bay, Narooma and Bermagui. Head to the beautiful tourist town of Tilba Tilba, check out Australia Rock in Narooma and Horses Head rock formation in Bermagui.
It’s also home to some of the best beaches in New South Wales to discover such as Mystery Bay, Depot Beach and South Durras. Make sure you check out the crystal clear rock pools in Mimosa Rocks as well.
Public Transport Friendly? It will take at good 8 hours with two train rides and a bus trip to get to Bermagui.
Read our South Coast guides:
A Guide To Mystery Bay In NSW
5 Best Mimosa Rocks National Park Walks You Need To Do
How To Visit The Amazing Horse Head Rock In Bermagui NSW
25 Best Things To Do In Narooma
12 Best Beaches in Batemans Bay
16 Best Things To Do In Batemans Bay
18 Best Things To Do In Bermagui
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Hi, excellent article, very useful! Thanks. Four of us are doing a motorhome trip from Sydney to Cairns in January… are there any Vineyards in the Hunter Valley that also have motorhome pitches? Struggling to find on google. Many thanks Kevin
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24 Irresistible Weekend getaways From Sydney
Need a break from city life? Below we have shared our favourite places to escape on weekend getaways from Sydney. These top spots will have you rested and recharged in no time. From romantic breaks in pretty highlands towns with someone special to weekends visiting national parks and reconnecting with nature, we think there is something for everyone on our list of Sydney weekend getaway
Ideas for perfect weekends from Sydney
Our favourite places to head for weekends from sydney, the blue mountains and jenolan caves, ettalong and pearl beach, port stephens, lake macquarie, hunter valley, kangaroo valley, southern highlands, maitland and morpeth, glenworth valley, the hawkesbury river, the entrance, weekend getaways over 4 hours drive from sydney.
This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .
We have listed almost two dozen Sydney weekend getaways that are just the thing to change the pace and recharge the batteries. Before we dive into our list of favourite weekend getaways, let’s do a quick Q&A for those of you in a hurry.
Which are the best short getaways from Sydney?
Three places on our list fit the bill for quick weekend trips from Sydney, coming in at under ninety minutes’ drive from the city centre.
- Illawarra Coast –The scenic drive down the Illawarra escarpment makes a perfect quick getaway from Sydney. Don’t have a car? Don’t worry; there is also easy access from Sydney by train.
- Palm Beach and Pittwater –You don’t have to go far for a Sydney escape. Palm Beach on Barrenjoey Headland is perfect for finding paradise close to town. Explore Broken Bay and Pittwater on land and sea.
- Hawkesbury River –As the northern boundary of Sydney, the Hawkesbury offers plenty of options for water-based holidays and even houseboat rentals.
Where can I go for a cheap weekend from Sydney?
A weekend away from Sydney doesn’t have to break the bank. These three getaway spots are perfect for those on a budget.
A weekend away from Sydney doesn’t have to break the bank. These three getaway spots are perfect for those on a budget.
- Canberra– the capital of Australia, makes a great cheap getaway because many of the most popular attractions, including the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House, are free to enter. Hotels are quieter on the weekend when many of the parliamentarians go home.
- The Blue Mountains –a fab spot for a budget trip; the YHA in Katoomba is a fantastic base for a trip when funds are tight. There are also several heritage guest houses affordably priced outside peak season and plenty of opportunity for romance . Oh, and bush walks don’t cost a cent.
- The Royal National Park –home to the Coast Track, one of Australia’s most popular two-day walks. There are several campsites in the park, just perfect for a budget camping trip.
What destinations make great foodie getaways from Sydney?
If you like your holidays full of delicious eats, then we think these three options are perfect!
![nsw weekend trips Millthorpe Old Mill Cafe](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MIlthorpe-Cafe-near-orange-600x338.jpg)
- The Southern Highlands – a great foodie escape with boutique cellar doors, great local restaurants and even truffle hunts!
- The Hunter Valley – Pokolbin in the heart of the Hunter Valley is one of the best places to stay in the region if you don’t want to drive too much. We stayed at Cypress Lakes on our last visit, and it was a great base for evening dining.
- Orange – with award-winning restaurants and its own annual food festival, Orange is a top choice for a gourmet getaway.
- Milton, Mollymook and Ulladulla – These towns may not immediately spring to mind when thinking of destinations known for their food scenes. Still, we were recently very impressed by the fantastic bars, restaurants and cellar door options we found here.
What are the best winter escapes for weekends from Sydney?
Instead of running north from the cold, why not embrace it we really don’t get to enjoy open fireplaces and bracing morning walks very often as Sydneysiders.
![nsw weekend trips cold winter morning in regional NSW](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Sydney-Weekend-Getaways-in-Winter-600x371.jpg)
- The Blue Mountains – Along with its annual Winter fest and Christmas in July celebrations, the walking tracks in the mountains are perfect for weekend escapes in the winter. The cool weather is exactly what you need for exploring the hiking tracks in the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park, and in the evening, you can return to your accommodation for a big glass of red in front of the fire. Whether it’s a boutique hotel or a family-friendly vacation rental, there are a ton of great options across the mountain villages.
- Thredbo – if you fancy a quick adrenalin hit, it’s hard to go past a couple of days enjoying the NSW Snowy Mountains. Thredbo at the top of the mountain makes a great base and is the perfect place to enjoy the après-ski atmosphere.
- Southern Highlands – sitting by roaring fireplaces, tasting your way through a pie festival and drinking cool climate wines all make wonderful winter pastimes. A stop at the pie shop is also a must-do.
Here are 24 weekends away from Sydney we have loved and recommend to anyone wanting a getaway.
Many people make the day trip from Sydney, but the Blue Mountains really deserve more time; it’s a great weekend destination and one idea for repeat visits. The mountain villages make a great base for a weekend getaway, and each offers something different.
![nsw weekend trips Blackheath Grose Valley View](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Grose-Valley-Blue-Mountains-Australia.jpg)
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5 tops things to do on your Blue Mountains weekend getaway
- Hike one of the many walking tracks
- View the Three Sisters
- Pop into Scenic World
- Explore beautiful gardens in Leura
- Check out the local galleries
- Have high tea with a view at the Hydro Majestic
See our favourite properties in the Blue Mountains
Distance from Sydney : 102km to Katoomba Driving time: 90 minutes Public Transport rating : Easy – trains service the upper and lower mountain villages. Local buses are available to explore once you are there. Best time to visit: The Blue Mountains is a year-round destination
Check out our weekend in Blackheath for ideas on a Blue Mountains itinerary
Only ninety minutes from Sydney, the Woy Woy Peninsula on the southern end of the Central Coast is a brilliant spot for a quick Sydney getaway. With two charming coastal villages, Pearl Beach and Patonga, the area is surrounded by Brisbane Water National Park and offers many less-known bush walks.
![nsw weekend trips NSW Central Coast Umina Beach](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Central-Coast-Getaway-Umina-Beach-at-Sunrise.jpg)
8 Things to do near Ettalong
- Visit the Australian Reptile Park
- Taste the Canoli at Sasa Sicilian Street Food in Ettalong
- Enjoy a meal at Pearl’s at Pearl Beach or the Boathouse Patonga
- Learn to paddle or rent a board Bombora SUP at Ettalong
- Hire a BBQ Boat and cook your own lunch on the water
- Take the ferry from Woy Woy around the local waterfront communities
- Eat fresh seafood on the deck at Woy Woy Fishermans Wharf
- Take in the view from Mount Ettalong Lookout
Distance from Sydney : 85km Driving time: 60 minutes Public Transport rating : Easy – Trains to Woy Woy, or Gosford. Buses service the smaller communities. Best time to visit: Best in spring and summer when you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of the region.
Check out our weekend in Ettalong – a mix of walking, eating and exploring.
Capital of Australia, it’s likely you have visited as a child, but Canberra makes a great grown-ups weekend away these days. Just 3 hour’s drive south-west of Sydney it possible offers the best rainy-day attractions in the country with dozens of museums and galleries, many of them free to visit.
![nsw weekend trips Lake Burley Griffin aerial view](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Sydney-Weekend-Getaway-to-Canberra.jpg)
5 Things to do in Canberra
- Pop into the National Portrait Gallery and find your favourite Australian likeness
- Dine on the Kingston Waterfront
- Watch the sunset from Mount Ainsley
- Take a walk around Lake Burley Griffin
- Have happy hour drinks at Monster Kitchen and Bar
Choosing a base for your Canberra visit: Couples will find Kingston and NewActon make perfect bases for a brief stay in Canberra. These two areas are both lakeside and offer a great range of restaurant and bar options. We stayed in
We stayed at Ovolo Nishi apartments , they also have a hotel option . If they are booked out, this apartment is another option we like. All these are within walking distance to both the lake and Civic.
Read our Canberra 3 Day Itinerary before you visit
Distance from Sydney : 285km Driving time: 3 hours Public Transport rating : Possible, take the bus in 3.5 hours or the train which takes 4hrs 30 mins. Best time to visit: We think Canberra looks her best in autumn when the leaves change colour and spring during the annual Floriade festival. However, with all the great indoor activities, this is a year-round destination.
Take a read of our favourite things to do in Canberra on a budget
Flying under the international traveller’s radar, Port Stephens offers lots of adventure opportunities for thrill-seekers. Great for diving and snorkelling and beach time. There is more than enough to keep you busy for a week or two.
![nsw weekend trips Port Stephens Fingal Bay Beach](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Port-Stephens-Sydney-Weekend-Getaway.jpg)
With over 26 beaches to choose from, it is hard to pick a favourite. We think Shoal Bay, One Mile, Zenith Beach, Fingal Bay and Box Beach all deserve to be at the top of any list.
7 things to do on your weekend in Port Stephens
- Hike to the summit of Mt Tomaree
- Go scuba diving in Nelson Bay
- See whales and dolphins with Moonshadow cruises
- Go swimming with the wild dolphins
- Take in the view from Gan Gan Lookout
- Check out the Stockton Sand Dunes
- Dine at Bannisters in Soldiers Point
Check out Oaks Port Stephens, one of our favourite spots to stay
Distance from Sydney : 215km Driving time: 2hrs 30 minutes Public Transport rating : Train to Newcastle and then bus (4hrs 30m) Best time to visit: Port Stephens is a great spring and summer holiday spot.
A paradise for water sports lovers, Lake Macquarie, is a boating or fishing enthusiast’s dream. Holiday accommodation from caravan parks to 1-2-bedroom waterfront apartments are in ample supply, making this a popular choice for families.
![nsw weekend trips Redhead Beach, Lake Macquarie](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Catherine-Hill-Bay-Lake-Macquarie-NSW.jpg)
Best weekend ideas for Lake Macquarie
- Check out the State Heritage-listed Catherine Hill Bay Village
- Find the cave at Caves Beach Swansea
- Photograph the wooden lookout tower at Redhead beach at Sunrise
- Rent a kayak or a boat and explore the lake
- Explore the Watagans National Park
Distance from Sydney : 135km Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes Public Transport rating : Possible if you are happy to stay in a central base. You can take a train and a bus depending on your location. Best time to visit: Lake Macquarie is best for watersports, so the warmer the weather, the better. Late spring to early Autumn is ideal.
Take a look at this guide to Lake Macquarie for families by Boy Eats World
With ample accommodation and activities for planning a romantic getaway, the Hunter Valley is a top choice for a romantic NSW Getaway. It’s an easy drive from Sydney and one of the best weekend choices for any wine lover.
It makes a great long weekend option giving you two full days of wine tasting before you have to sober up for the drive home.
![nsw weekend trips Running Horse Vineyard Broke Hunter Valley](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/at-Running-Horse-Vineyard-Broke-Hunter-Valley.jpg)
We highly recommend spending a day wine tasting with iHop . They will help you choose the best stops based on the type of wine you enjoy, and by leaving the car at home, everyone gets to relax and join in the tastings.
Top things to do in the Hunter Valley:
- Spend the day exploring on the iHop Hunter Hop on Hop Off bus
- Taste all the cheese at Binorie Dairy – yes, all of it!
- Conquer your fear of highs on a hot-air balloon ride
- Indulge in at least one fine dining experience
- Visit a mix of old and new wineries.
Check out our full list of things to do in the Hunter Valley .
We stayed at Oaks Cypress Lakes on our last visit and have also enjoyed stays at The Convent . If you fancy trying out a tiny house, this one looks great and top of our hit list for our next visit is the stunning Spicers Guesthouse .
Distance from Sydney : 170kms Driving time: 2 hours 10 minutes Public Transport rating : not recommended – train to Cessnock, but need to join a local tour to see the vineyards. Best time to visit: Spring is the prettiest time in the Hunter Valley. Summer harvest is also a great time to visit, but it can be warm.
Already stayed in the Hunter Valley – Check out our weekend visit to Maitland and Morpeth
A popular spot for a quick weekend getaway from Sydney Kiama with its pretty Norfolk lined waterfront swells with weekend guests most warm Sundays. By staying for the weekend, you get the early morning and evenings without the crowds.
![nsw weekend trips Aerial overlooking Kiama Harbour and the Continental Ocean Pool in Kiama.](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Ocean-Pool-Kiama-Mark-Fitzpatrick-Destination-NSW-600x363.jpg)
Our favourite things to do in Kiama include:
- Tackle the 22km Kiama Coastal Walk – best over 2 days for most people
- Explore the Minnamurra Rainforest and waterfall
- Witness Cathedral Rocks at sunrise or sunset
- Take a day trip to nearby Berry for some great shopping
- Grab some takeaway from Otis Deli and head to Seven Mile Beach for a picnic
- Check out the local golf course overlooking the sea
We have written up 15 of our favourite things to do in Kiama you should check out before you visit.
Choose an apartment or holiday home in Kiama or surrounding beach towns.
Distance from Sydney : 120km Driving time: 1 hr 40 minutes in good traffic Public Transport rating : Easy train takes 2 hours and 10 minutes Best time to visit: Spring to early autumn sees temperatures in Kiama perfect for time on the areas beautiful beaches.
The second-largest city in NSW, Newcastle was once best known for its steelworks and coal mines. Today it offers a fantastic lifestyle and a vibe that had us seriously considering moving north away from Sydney after our last visit. This is a weekend getaway for when you don’t want to spend too much time driving.
![nsw weekend trips Bathers Way Beach Walk](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Newcastle-Early-morning-surf-Australia-1.jpg)
Check out our favourite things to do in Newcastle
- Take in the view and history of the Anzac Memorial Walk
- Walk all 5.8km of the Bathers Way
- Ride the ferry to Stockton Beach to check out the dunes, the largest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere
- Have a picnic with the kangaroos and koalas at Blackbutt Reserve
- Swim in the historic ocean baths at Merewether Beach
- Wander Darby Street for cafes and restaurants and boutiques
Distance from Sydney : 170km Driving time: approx 2 hours to 2hrs 30 in traffic Public Transport rating : Easy Best time to visit: Great year-round spot with plenty of museums and restaurants to enjoy when the weather is cooler.
Check out our list of what we got up to on our recent Newcastle Weekend Getaway .
One of the largest towns in Central NSW, most people who make the trip to Orange go to enjoy the cool-climate wines. There are 30 cellar doors to visit. The area also offers a great food scene. We, however, usually trek there to see family and friends, and in many years of doing this, we always find new things to do.
Orange is beautiful in spring and autumn, it’s bracingly cold in winter, but that can also be a lot of fun and a great time to sip red wine by an open fire.
![nsw weekend trips The Falls Waterfall in Orange NSW](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/The-Falls-Waterfall-in-Orange-NSW.jpg)
On our most recent visit, thanks to the pandemic, most of the cellar doors were closed, so we spent our time exploring the great outdoors. A local put us onto The Falls Water Falls, at Mullion Range. If there has been some good rainfall before or during your visit, be sure to take the short, easy hike for the view above.
We also trekked the stairs to the top of Pinnacle Lookout and along with a sense of achievement that we actually made it, the view was well worth the effort!
5 Things you should do in Orange
- Grab some great local goodies and head to Lake Canobolas for a picnic
- Climb all the stairs to Pinnacle Lookout
- Treat yourself to a lovely meal in Millthorpe
- Book a tasting at Ferment , the wine centre in town.
- Pop into the excellent regional gallery and museum
Tip : If you have an extra day, take a drive to some of the surrounding villages like Manildra, Carcoar or Canowindra.
Check out de Russie Boutique Hotel , we loved our stay there on a previous visit.
Distance from Sydney : 250km Driving time: 3 hours and 30 minutes Public Transport rating : Easy – train from Central to Lithgow and a change for the train to Orange Best time to visit: Anytime but summer – Spring and Autumn are the most popular. Winter can be freezing.
If your idea of the perfect weekend away involves walking trails and waterfalls, look no further than Kangaroo Valley, just a couple of hours south of Sydney. The scenery and wildlife here will have you wondering why you don’t visit more often.
![nsw weekend trips Fitzroy Falls NSW Southern Highlands](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Fitzroy-Falls-NSW-Southern-Highland-800s.jpg)
8 things to see when you visit Kangaroo Valley
- Kayak or canoe the Kangaroo River
- Get the blood pumping on the Three Views walk in Morton National Park.
- Visit nearby Fitzroy Falls.
- Kayak on the Kangaroo River
- Check out historic Hampden Bridge
- Take in the view from Cambewarra Lookout.
- Play a round at the Kangaroo Valley Golf Club
- Ask the locals where you can spot some wombats
One of our go-to spots for a budget visit to Kangaroo Valley is Holiday Haven Park
Distance from Sydney : 160km Driving time: 2 hours Public Transport rating : Not recommended – possible in a pinch, train to Moss Vale Station, then a bus. You will need transport on arrival. Best time to visit: April and May are ideal for weather and rainfall. Summer is cooler than Sydney.
The Southern Highlands towns of Berrima and Bowral are perfect for a winter getaway. This is the closest you can get to an English Country holiday in Australia.
![nsw weekend trips Gift shop in Bowral](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Go-shopping-in-the-Southern-Highlands-1-600x371.jpg)
Five things to do in the Southern Highlands
- One of the biggest drawcards is the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame
- Book dinner at the wonderful Thai restaurant Paste in Mittagong
- Take a walk around Berrima Village
- Taste the Tempranillo at Centennial Vineyard
- Spend some time in Morton National Park
Bowral is our preferred base for a Southern Highlands break because of the number of good places to eat and drink. From here, you are just 15 minutes away from most of the other villages. This string of villages offers some of the best weekend getaways for Sydney’s winter months.
Not sure which highlands town to make your base? Check out our beginners guide to the Southern Highlands
We think the Gibraltar Hotel is a fabulous base for exploring the Southern Highlands
Distance from Sydney : 120km Driving time: 90 minutes south of Sydney to Bowral Public Transport rating : A car makes exploring easier but you can take a train from Central to Bowral in 2 hours and 20 minutes. Best time to visit:
Best known perhaps for Hyams Beach with its white sand, said to be among the whitest in the world, and crystal clear blue water. The Jervis Bay region is home to over 100 beaches in giving you ample opportunity to find your own favourite. Add to this great local produce and its own emerging wine region, and this south coast paradise is the perfect Sydney weekend getaway in our book.
![nsw weekend trips Jervis Bay Beach Narrawallee near Mollymook](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Narrawallee-Beach-Jervis-Bay.jpg)
Lush green hills and fantastic snorkelling and diving in the Jervis Bay Marine Park await only three hours’ drive south. Make the most of the bay by joining one of the many cruises, fishing charters or dive boats that leave from Huskinson. For an insanely romantic option book at Bannisters by the sea, the outdoor pool is one of the best along the NSW coast.
Check out our recent visit to Bannisters in Mollymook for ideas of what to see, eat and do.
It’s insanely busy in summer, so try to visit at other times of the year for the best experience.
7 Great things to do in Jervis Bay
- Do the White Sands Walk from Greenfields Beach to Hyams Beach
- Join the Aboriginal Culture tour with Djiriba Waagura
- Head out onto the water with Jervis Bay Wild for some whale watching
- Take a local food and wine tour with Wine Knot tours
- Do sundowner drinks at Cupitt Winery
- Spend a few hours at Bannisters By the Sea spa
- Dine at Rick Stein Banisters restaurant
The area offers everything from luxury stays and boutique hotels in Mollymook to rustic camping in Booderee National Park .
Bannisters at Mollymook is a lovely base for a couple’s escape
Distance from Sydney : 185 km to Huskinson Driving time: 2hrs 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on traffic. Public Transport rating : Not recommended – 4 hours (2 trains and a bus) Best time to visit:
The best Southern Highlands town for visiting what we refer to as the home of the trinity of waterfalls, Robertson is an easy and beautiful drive from Sydney.
![nsw weekend trips Spring colours in Robertson](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Robertson-in-Spring.jpg)
The town has just enough to keep you busy for 2-3 days. There is a good range of dining options, lots of walking trails, some great small shops and plenty of lookouts to find.
The beautifully restored Robertson Hotel makes a fantastic base for your visit.
Things to do when you visit Robertson for a weekend away.
- Take in the views at Belmore, Carrington and Fitzroy Falls
- Have breakfast at Moonacres
- Take a walk through historic Burrawang and enjoy lunch in the pub garden
- Do a tasting at the Cheese Factory
- Laugh at the Big Potato, Australia’s lamest “big thing.”
- Taste test the pies at the town’s three local pie shops and declare your winner.
- Find a treasure at The Cool Room Emporium
Distance from Sydney : 140km Driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes Public Transport rating : Possible – average 3 hours 10 mins. Best time to visit: Year-round – each season offers something unique, but autumn colours are stunning.
Right on the city’s doorstep, Bundeena is only an hour from Sydney’s CBD and easily reached by public transport. The town on the edge of the Royal National Park is a great base for the Coast Track walk, which traverses 26km south from its official start right in town.
![nsw weekend trips Bundeena Beach with a seagull](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Bundeena-views-to-cronulla.jpg)
Bundeena is home to numerous artists’ studios, and an art trail opens once a month, allowing visitors to peek inside and meet the artists in their studios. If you fancy a weekend exploring the park or just lazying by the beach in a town with an old school summer holiday vibe, this is an excellent choice.
Things to do when you stay in Bundeena for a weekend
- Visit the Aboriginal Rock engravings
- Ride the Tom Thumb Ferry
- Take a walk to Wedding Cake Rock
- Rent a kayak and explore the Port Hacking River
- Tour the Bundeena Art Trail
There are plenty of holiday rentals and also campsites in the Royal National Park if you want to get closer to nature.
Distance from Sydney : 55km Driving time: 1 hour Public Transport rating : Excellent, train to Cronulla then the Bundeena Ferry Best time to visit: year-round but lovely in Spring and Autumn when crowds are low, and it’s perfect weather for a walk.
The regional town of Maitland and the nearby village of Morpeth were one of our big surprises in 2020. A little over half an hour from both Newcastle and Cessnock it’s often passed by on the way to somewhere else but next time you are looking for a weekend getaway give this a shot.
![nsw weekend trips Bronte Hotel Morpeth](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/The-Bronte-Boutique-Hotel-Morpeth-600x438.jpg)
The entire town of Morpeth is beautifully preserved and restored and the perfect base for exploring. Both here and in Maitland a short drive away there are excellent restaurants and cafes making it hard to decide where to eat. Check out where we ate on our last visit here.
Things not to miss in Morpeth and Maitland
- Visit the Maitland Regional Art Gallery
- Uncover a treasure at Campbell’s Stores
- Try to find the “Dr Morse’s Indian Root Pills” Barn
- Treat yourself to a three course dinner at Boydell’s at Morpeth
- Have sunset drinks by the Levee at COQUUN
- Take a guided tour of Maitland Goal – hear the fascinating stories of its inmates
Distance from Sydney: 77km Driving time: 1 hour Public Transport rating: Train to Maitland and then a taxi Best time to visit : year-round but lovely in Spring and Autumn when crowds are low, and it’s perfect weather for a walk.
If you want a weekend of adventure with some horse riding thrown in, then a visit to Glenworth Valley is a superb choice. Lying in the Central Coast Hinterland, the area is home to the towns that historically fed the city, including Peats Ridge and Mangrove Mountain.
If you love the outdoors and you have not discovered the Glenworth Valley, you are in for a treat. With endless opportunities to get your blood running. You can abseil, climb, kayak, hike, go quad biking or horse riding.
Things to do in Glenworth Valley on an adventurous weekend away
- Meet the locals at Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary
- Try axe throwing at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures
- Abseil down a waterfall
- Explore the almost unknown Popran National Park
Distance from Sydney: 77km Driving time: 1 hour Public Transport rating: not recommended – the closest you can get easily is Gosford. It’s a 15-minute drive . Best time to visit : year-round but lovely in Spring and Autumn crowds are low, and it’s perfect weather for a walk.
Hawkesbury River weekend getaways are especially suited to aspiring boaties. You can rent a vessel to reach one of the many secluded properties that line the waterfront or book a houseboat for a weekend on the water.
![nsw weekend trips Hawkesbury river wharfs and houses](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Hawkesbury-River-community.jpg)
Things to do while visiting the Hawkesbury River
- Take a tour with the Riverboat Postman while they deliver the mail
- Enjoy a meal on The Floating Oyster Wine Bar
- Learn all about pearls at the Broken Bay Pearl Farm
- Wander Dangar Island and have a beer with the locals at the Bowling Club
- Head upriver to the Spencer Village Store
- Enjoy a meal at Peat’s Bite
Distance from Sydney: 65km Driving time: 50 minutes Public Transport rating: Train to Hawkesbury River Station at Brooklyn Best time to visit : Near a bad time to visit, just bring the right clothes!
Surrounded by water on all sides, The Entrance offers surf beaches and accommodation overlooking Tuggerah Lake. A longtime favourite family getaway for Sydneysiders, and it’s easy to see why there is so much to do with kids.
![nsw weekend trips nsw weekend trips](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Long-Jetty-The-Entrance-Tuggerah-Lake.jpg)
From calm beaches along the lakefront to water play areas in the centre of town and, of course, the famous Pelican feeding, it is very easy to entertain the entire family here.
Couples might like to choose the Pullman Magenta shores or Kim’s Beachside Retreat.
Things to do on a visit to The Entrance
- Watch the Pelican Feeding at Memorial Park daily at 3:15pm
- Take a swim at the ocean baths
- Explore the shops and cafes of Long Jetty
- Take the coast walk at Wyrrabalong National Park
- Do the Coast to Lake Walk – an easy 7.6km walk
Find more things to do on the Central Coast here
Distance from Sydney: 107km Driving time: 70 minutes Public transport rating: Yes, train to Gosford and bus to The Entrance (2.5hrs all up) Best time to visit : Spring and summer allow you to enjoy the water
Sitting at the end of the Bouddi Peninsula, Killcare is a bit of a secret for many, with its 1.6km long beach and the stunning Bouddi National Park almost enclosing the area. This is a paradise for bushwalkers and anyone who enjoys the beach.
![nsw weekend trips Sunrise at Killcare Beach on the Central Coast](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Sunrise-at-Killcare-Beach.jpg)
Things to do on weekend getaways to Killcare
- Walk the Maitland Bay Track in Bouddi National Park
- Visit the Box Head Lookout, Gerrin Lookout over the ocean and Alan Strom Lookout over Brisbane Water.
- Pop into the Distillery Botanica cellar door and try the local gin
- Swim at Lobster Beach
- Have breakfast at Fat Goose Cafe
- Check out nearby Copacabana Beach and Avoca Beach
Distance from Sydney : 103km Driving time : 1 hour, 30 minutes Public Transport rating : Possible but takes close to 3 hours with poor connections Best time to visit : Summer and spring for beach days but winter watching the moody ocean can be so relaxing.
With country charm in bucket loads, a weekend in Mudgee is a lovely way to relax with the perfect mix of rolling hills, historic buildings and wineries. While it’s a well-known escape for foodies, if you enjoy a good hike, then Ferntree Gully or Putta Bucca Wetlands will deliver just what you need.
![nsw weekend trips Lowe Family wine Mudgee](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/163126-Lowe-Wines-Mudgee-Destination-NSW.jpg)
Things to do on a weekend in Mudgee
- Stoll the Mudgee Farmers’ Market and try not to eat everything in sight!
- Try your hand fishing at Cudgegong Waters Park
- Explore the historic gold rush town of Gulgong
- Do a tasting at the charming Lowe Family Wine Co or another of the region’s 65 cellar doors.
- Spend some time (and dollars) in the shops along Market and Church Streets.
- Make your way to Flirtation Hill Lookout for a splendid view over the town.
Distance from Sydney : 266km Driving time : 3 hours, 30 minutes Public Transport rating : Possible but takes close to 3 hours with poor connections. Best time to visit : Mudgee is a great year-round destination.
Church Point, Cottage Point or Scotland Island, whichever of these idyllic waterfront locations you choose, you will feel you have left Sydney far behind. Paddle, swim or just sit and watch the world go by from a waterfront rental.
![nsw weekend trips Lavenders in bloom at Cottage Point Pittwater](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Cottage-Point-at-Pittwater-NSW.jpg)
Things to include on your weekend getaways on Pittwater
- Eat Brunch at Cottage Point Inn
- Ride the ferry between the islands and explore them all
- Have drinks in the garden at the Pasadena
- Spend the day at the Basin
- Take a walk or two in Kur-Ring-Gai National Park
Distance from Sydney : 40km Driving time : 50 minutes Public Transport rating : Bus to Palm Beach and local ferry service Best time of year to visit : spring wildflowers are stunning but Pittwater is beautiful all year
A weekend in Bathurst is not just for motorsports enthusiasts. The town will be just as exciting for any history lover. As the oldest inland city in Australia, a stroll through the main street and a visit to the nearby towns will reward with some fine colonial architecture, including Abercrombie House.
![nsw weekend trips Bathurst town centre heritage buildings](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Heritage-buildings-in-bathurst.jpg)
Things you should do on a weekend in Bathurst
- Drive the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit
- Explore the nearby gold rush towns of Sofala and Hill End
- Visit Mayfield Garden – a must in autumn and spring
- Check out one of the many local bush walks
- Spend time in one of the twenty museums
Distance from Sydney : 205km west of Sydney Driving time : 2 hours and 50 minutes Public Transport rating : Train (3hrs 45m) Best time of year to visit: Rug up in the winter but visit anytime. October when the motor racing comes to town can be expensive.
Two lighthouses guard Wollongong Harbour on the Illawarra Coast south of Sydney. The third biggest city in NSW may not immediately pop into mind when thinking about a weekend getaway, but there are plenty of reasons it should.
![nsw weekend trips Wollongong beach getaway](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Wollongong-Beach.jpg)
Make your way from Sydney through the Royal National Park and the famous Grand Pacific Drive. This tour will take you over the South Coast’s famous Seacliff Bridge and onto Wollongong via a string of beautiful beaches.
Things to do when you spend a weekend in Wollongong
- Visit Nan Tien Temple, the biggest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Check out the city’s street art
- Take one of the region’s fantastic walks
- Check out all the lookouts from Stanwell Tops to Sublime Point
- Discover the collection at Wollongong Regional Gallery (it contains work by many of Australia’s greatest artists)
- Swim at all the Illawarra’s Beaches – Thirroul, Austinmer, Coledale and, of course, North Wollongong just for a start.
We have a whole list of things to do in Wollongong here
Distance from Sydney : 85km Driving time : 90 minutes Public Transport rating : Easy – trains from Central to Wollongong many of the towns on the route Best time to visit : Wollongong has plenty to offer year-round.
Bungendore, just 30 minutes from Canberra, describes itself as a traditional Australian country town. It was one of the early Cobb and Co Stage Coast stops
![nsw weekend trips Gunna Doo Bakery on Gibraltar Street](https://sydneyexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/1280px-Bungendore_Gibraltar_Street-1.jpg)
Things to see and do on a weekend in Bungendore
- Be amazed by the creations at the Bungendore Woodworks Gallery
- Taste the Biodynamic Wines at Lark Hill Winery
- Book a Black Truffle degustation at Turalla Truffles
- Visit the Saturday Southern Harvest Farmers Market
- Grab a meat pie from the Gunna Doo Bakery
Distance from Sydney : 277km Driving time: 3hrs and 20 minutes Public Transport rating : Train from Sydney stops at Bungendore and takes 3.5 hours. Best time to visit: It’s pretty cold in winter, and quite warm in summer but perfect the rest of the year.
We generally like shorter drive times on our weekend trips from sydney, less time in the car and more time exploring however if you like driving and don’t mind going a little further you could consider the following places:
- Port Macquarie – great coastal walks and family fun
- Forster – perennial favourite and home to some of the best NSW beaches
- Byron Bay – perhaps book into a resort and relax after the long drive or fly to Ballina and pick up a car.
- Snowy Mountains – something to offer at all times of the year hiking or skiing
- Coffs Harbour and the Waterfall Way – our favourite road trip of all time
- Batemans Bay – family holidays don’t get much more old school than a weekend in Batemans Bay.
Check out these road trips into regional New South Wales for more inspiration.
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help
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Home | Travel guides | Getaways | Plan your holiday with weekend getaways in NSW
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- Fun Experiences
- Outdoor Adventure
- City Breaks
- Beach Retreats
- Best Weekend Getaways
- Cheap Weekend Getaways
- Luxury Weekend Getaways
Plan your holiday with weekend getaways in NSW
With breathtaking natural treasures, unspoilt beaches and one of the most famous and vibrant cities in the world, New South Wales is one of Australia’s most popular states. Even with a weekend trip, you can explore local culture, relax on gorgeous beaches, hike through the mountains and enjoy multicultural fare. No matter how you want to spend your time, you’ll be spoilt for choice for weekend getaways in NSW.
Fun experiences in New South Wales
From the vibrant capital city of Sydney to the wonders of the Blue Mountains area, New South Wales has everything for urbanites and nature lovers alike. With so much to do, you’ll never run out of memorable experiences in New South Wales.
Outdoor adventure
New South Wales has numerous natural retreats for outdoor adventure. Booderee National Park , a vast wilderness area with waterfalls, trails and waterways, the coastal areas with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters or the Blue Mountains area and its natural wonders are perfect for all manner of sports and activities, such as hiking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, surfing and much more.
City breaks
The harbour city of Sydney is the home of many of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can explore rich inner-city neighbourhoods, dine in sophisticated restaurants overlooking the water or sightsee and soak up some culture in galleries, museums and theatre companies throughout the city. Plenty of accommodation options in and around Sydney make it easy to pack your weekend itinerary with fun experiences.
Beach retreats
From the iconic surf spot of Bondi Beach to the laid-back atmosphere of Byron Bay, New South Wales has some of the best beaches on the continent. You can relax on the sand, take the kids swimming in the shallows and rock pools, surf or sail off the coast and snorkel or dive beneath the surface to see vibrant marine life. You’ll find an array of short-term holiday rentals near the beach, giving you more time to spend in the sun and surf.
![nsw weekend trips Rustic bedroom with a king size bed with white and tan bedding and carved wood headboard, and wooden bedside tables.](https://www.stayz.com.au/holiday-ideas/wp-content/uploads/5pWFej4q8ZFLWHddw9TK3F/d2ae3c0d09180981e2f2a28859fabaec/07a566e5-741c-43d6-86ee-588cb260c8c8_lg1.jpg)
Best weekend getaways in NSW
Whether you want to travel on a budget or indulge in luxurious accommodation, spa treatments and sophisticated restaurants, you can plan the perfect weekend getaway in NSW. Accommodation options are available to suit different budgets, travelling groups and interests, ensuring you can make the most of your holiday.
Cheap weekend getaways in NSW
Weekend getaways are a great way to sightsee and enjoy a break from everyday life without straining your budget. With a little planning, you can find cheap or free attractions and budget accommodation to save on your holiday. Many holiday rentals come with a kitchen and appliances so that you can prepare your own meals, helping you save even more on your trip.
![nsw weekend trips Open living room and kitchen with hardwood floors, an antique dining table and modern kitchen.](https://www.stayz.com.au/holiday-ideas/wp-content/uploads/6BR30q9iyNZMt3E4u6pysM/8b335bb6dec5933ab8f13e1b69a83a3d/f775a324-e20d-4b73-9108-21d8c8f67ff0_lg1.jpg)
Luxury weekend getaways in NSW
If you want to enjoy a luxurious holiday in New South Wales, you’ll have plenty of choices. Luxury accommodation with fine furnishings, decadent amenities and unique features are available throughout the state, and you can enjoy high-end restaurants and shopping, spa retreats and other indulgent experiences.
Weekend getaways for families
New South Wales boasts numerous family-friendly attractions and accommodation. You can find sprawling holiday homes, lodges, apartments and cabins with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, spacious living areas and kid-friendly features like entertainment systems. Kids will also like the attractions of New South Wales, such as the Sydney Aquarium , Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Jenolan Caves .
Discover top things to do with kids in NSW with our family destination guides
17 Fun Things to Do on a Blue Mountains Family Holiday
12 cool things to do in byron bay with kids, things to do in terrigal with the family, 12 best family holidays in nsw, find fun things to do with kids in newcastle, find exciting kids’ activities in sydney.
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11 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Sydney
Written by Karen Hastings Updated Mar 22, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )
One of the world's most dazzling cities, Sydney is packed with exciting things to see and do , but even hardcore city slickers need a weekend getaway every now and then. Luckily, you'll find plenty of options for weekend escapes within a short drive of Sydney's hustle and bustle.
World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, cute country towns, mountain peaks, lush valleys, and sun-soaked beaches are all within easy reach of the city, and families will find great options for cheap weekend getaways with kid-friendly attractions. Whether you're planning a mini-vacation with the kids, plotting a romantic weekend getaway, pining for an epic road trip, or looking for short breaks for singles, find ideas with our list of the best weekend getaways from Sydney.
1. The Blue Mountains
2. the hunter valley, 3. jervis bay & the south coast, 5. the new south wales central coast, 6. port macquarie, 7. port stephens, 8. kangaroo valley, southern highlands, 9. the snowy mountains, 10. canberra, 11. coffs harbour, map of weekend getaways from sydney.
![nsw weekend trips The Three Sisters, Blue Mountains](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/03/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-blue-mountains-top-attractions-things-to-do-three-sisters-from-echo-point-lookout-2.jpg)
For an exhilarating dose of nature and breathtaking vistas, you can't beat the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. About an hour's drive from the CBD , this is one of the best short breaks from Sydney. It's an especially popular last-minute weekend trip in the summer, when the mercury soars and temperatures are cooler at the higher elevations.
Winter brings possible sprinklings of snow and opportunities for couples to snuggle up in a cozy cabin by a crackling fire.
Choose from a long list of invigorating attractions and places to visit in the Blue Mountains . Inhale the fresh eucalyptus-tinged air in the beautiful Blue Mountains National Park , gawk at the famous Three Sisters rock pinnacles shrouded in mist, hike the extensive network of trails, and see cool-climate plants at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden . Sightseeing in the surrounding towns is also rewarding. Explore charming mountain villages with art galleries, boutiques, and tea shops.
![nsw weekend trips Blue Mountains Botanic Garden](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-blue-mountains-botanic-garden.jpg)
For a unique perspective of the park's natural wonders, you can soar across the valley on the Scenic World Skyway or glass-floored Scenic Cableway, or ride the steepest railway in the world through an ancient rainforest. Waterfalls, wildlife, and lookouts are other top attractions. This is also one of the few easy weekend getaways from Sydney by train.
If money is no object, stay at the Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley , the perfect luxury winter escape, and if you're planning a romantic getaway in NSW, Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges is an excellent choice, with 28 acres of gardens, elegant decor, and a luxurious day spa.
![nsw weekend trips A horse in the Upper Hunter Valley](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-hunter-valley.jpg)
Just over a two-hour drive north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is a haven for foodies. This is the oldest grape-growing region in Australia, but you can also sample farm-fresh produce on multi-course tasting menus at top-notch restaurants. Chocolates, cheeses, chutneys, fresh-from-the-hive honey, olives, and aromatic oils are just some of the region's specialties.
After indulging, you can work off all the gourmet delights by hiking the scenic trails in nearby Wollemi and Barrington Tops National Parks .
You'll find plenty of family-focused things to do in the Hunter Valley , too. Soar over the valley in a hot air balloon, bike along quiet country roads, cuddle kangaroos at the Hunter Valley Zoo , and admire the botanical beauties at the Hunter Valley Gardens .
Active couples can play a few rounds of golf or tennis, and unwind at one of the region's luxury day spas at the end of the day.
In a convenient central location, Pokolbin Village makes a great-value base for a short break from Sydney. Here, you'll find cozy cottages, an inviting outdoor pool, tennis and boules courts, and a popular little Italian eatery. Seeking a unique weekend getaway in NSW? Book a stay at Elysia Wellness Retreat .
![nsw weekend trips Hyams Beach](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-jervis-bay-south-coast.jpg)
It's no secret. Most Sydneysiders agree that the South Coast has some of the state's best beaches, especially in the Shoalhaven region. In fact dazzling Hyams Beach , about three hours south of Sydney, near Jervis Bay , is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia . It's the perfect spot for a weekend getaway if you want to bask on snow-white sands (reputedly the whitest in the world) and slip into the silky, sparkling blue water on a hot summer's day.
But Hyams isn't the only stunning slice of coast. Murrays Beach , Huskisson , and Steamers Beach are other top choices. Hiking trails lace the surrounding bushland of Booderee National Park , and other popular things to do here include kayaking, dolphin and whale-watching cruises, fishing, boating, stand up paddleboarding, and scuba diving in Jervis Bay Marine Park .
Head farther south from Jervis Bay, and you can surf the breaks at Mollymook Beach , come face to face with kangaroos at Murramarang National Park or Pebbly Beach, and soak up the sunshine on true-to-its-name Pretty Beach . For a relaxing splurge, stay at Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook, a luxury oceanfront resort with a vanishing edge pool; posh day spa; and highly-acclaimed seafood restaurant by famed chef, Rick Stein.
On the way to Jervis Bay, Kiama makes a wonderful weekend getaway in its own right.
![nsw weekend trips Aerial view of Kiama](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-kiama.jpg)
About 90 minutes south of Sydney, Kiama is home to the famous Kiama Blowhole, one of the world's largest blowholes . But there's more than just the hiss and fizz of water to lure you to this South Coast beauty.
From the air, you could be forgiven for thinking that this is a little slice of Ireland. Lushly-cloaked hills roll to the sea, and pristine beaches rim the coast below steep sea cliffs. Head to Saddleback Mountain Lookout for bird's-eye views.
Along the coast, you can bask on the soft sands, paddle in rock pools, surf the swells, or watch the experts ride world-class breaks at a surf competition. Need some exercise? Soak up the salt-tinged sea air on the Kiama Coast Walk , and capture an image of the iconic Kiama Lighthouse.
![nsw weekend trips Kiama Coast Walk](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-kiama-coastal-walk.jpg)
Inland Kiama attractions are just as enticing. Drive about 15 kilometers from Kiama to Minnamurra Rainforest Centre in Budderoo National Park. From here, you can hike The Falls walk to see rainforest cascades and a fern-filled canyon.
Kiama also has a rich history and Indigenous culture. Learn more about it on a Kiama Heritage Walk . Soar through the canopy on a zipline tour at Illawarra Fly , catch a music festival or a lazy river ride in Jamberoo, or linger in a Kiama café for a relaxed lunch. Options for rewarding adventures in Kiama and the surrounding region are endless.
![nsw weekend trips Waves crashing at Avoca Beach](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-new-south-wales-central-coast-waves-avoca-beach.jpg)
The New South Wales Central Coast is a picturesque playground right on Sydney's doorstep. Only an hour's drive from the city , this beach-rimmed stretch of coastline is one of the best short getaways from Sydney.
The main hub is Gosford . But most weekend warriors base themselves in one of the small Central Coast beach towns. Avoca Beach, Terrigal Beach, and The Entrance are the most popular, and water sports are among the top things to do. Swim, fish, surf the swells, or rent a kayak to paddle along the coast.
Avoca Beach is all about its namesake feature, an inviting arc of Norfolk pine-fringed sand and sea. Splash in the waves, dive the ex-HMAS Adelaide wreck offshore, or book a surf lesson. Prefer calmer waters? Head to Avoca Lake . Here, you can rent a pedal boat, kayak, or SUP to explore the lake.
Terrigal also has a lovely golden-sand beach with a small rock pool, and The Entrance has some of the most unspoiled beaches on the Central Coast – Shelly and Bateau Bay beaches are favorites.
![nsw weekend trips Terrigal Beach](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-new-south-wales-central-coast-waves-terrigal-beach.jpg)
Hikers are also in luck. Take the eight-kilometer Bouddi Coastal Walk to see wave-thrashed beaches, whales, woodlands, and wildlife.
Looking for a romantic place to stay on the Central Coast? The region is known for its top-notch boutique hotels. The five-star Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant and Spa and its sister resort, Pretty Beach House , are peaceful escapes surrounded by bird-rich bushland and gorgeous beaches. Both offer weekend getaway deals for couples, including babymoon packages and midweek breaks.
![nsw weekend trips Flynn's Beach](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-port-macquarie-flynns-beach.jpg)
Beaches, bushwalking, wildlife, and water sports are some of the top ingredients of a weekend getaway in Port Macquarie. Called "Port" by the locals, this holiday hot spot lies about four hours north of Sydney.
Gorgeous beaches stretch north and south of the busy little town: Flynn's Beach, Nobby's Beach, and Shelly Beach are among the most popular, and you can ride camels at beautiful Lighthouse Beach , which seems to stretch on for miles.
A great way to explore the coast here is on the nine-kilometer Port Macquarie Coastal Walk in Sea Acres National Park, and you can break it up into several smaller sections if you're traveling with kids or short on time. For a breathtaking overview of the region, stroll the short hike up to Tacking Point Lighthouse or head up North Brother Mountain to Laurieton Lookout in Dooragan National Park.
Thanks to the town's enviable position at the mouth of the Hastings River, fishing is also excellent. Sign up for a deep-sea fishing trip, cast a line off a local pier, and make sure you can sample some of the fruits of the sea at the town's excellent restaurants.
![nsw weekend trips Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/02/australia-new-south-wales-sydney-top-rated-weekend-getaways-port-macquarie-koala-hospital.jpg)
Port Macquarie is also home to one of the largest populations of wild koalas on the Eastern Seaboard . Kids will love exploring the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail (pick up a trail guide at a visitor information center) and visiting these lovable Aussie critters at the Koala Hospital .
Other family-friendly things to do in Port Macquarie on a weekend getaway include visiting the Billabong Zoo: Koala & Wildlife Park and plucking fresh produce at Ricardoes Tomatoes and U-Pick Strawberry Farm. Want to see some aquatic wildlife? Book a whale-watching trip in season (May through November).
Across from the beach, Sandcastle Apartments Port Macquarie makes a great base for exploring this stunning town – especially for families and groups. Beautiful blue-water views and sunny spaces greet you in the one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
![nsw weekend trips View from Tomaree Head](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-port-stephens.jpg)
Port Stephens is all about the water. Rippling volcanic headlands embrace a lovely slice of blue-water bay and white sand. Here, less than three hours north of Sydney, you'll find more than 20 beautiful beaches where you can lay down your towel.
Swimming, surfing, sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating are popular things to do on the water, and this is also one of the top fishing destinations in Australia – especially for game fishing, with record catches of billfish species.
Whales and dolphins are also frequent visitors in the bay. Sign up for a cruise to see them in action. You can also get out on the water in nearby Myall Lakes National Park , one of the largest lake systems in the state.
Port Stephens also offers plenty of adventures on land. Hike the Tomaree Head Summit Walk for panoramic views of the Port Stephens coast, zoom down the largest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere , and explore pristine pockets of natural bushland.
The main towns are Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay , but The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in nearby Corlette also makes a great Hamptons-style weekend escape, with two sparkling pools, water's edge restaurants, and a luxury spa.
![nsw weekend trips Fitzroy Falls](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-kangaroo-valley.jpg)
Life moves at a slower pace in the lush Kangaroo Valley. About a two-hour drive southwest of Sydney, it makes the perfect escape for stressed-out city slickers. You won't find any traffic lights in this quaint Southern Highlands village, just rolling green fields and farms surrounded by emerald escarpments, and the historic 19th-century Hampden Bridge , with only one lane, so you have to slow down.
Wilderness areas beckon just beyond, with hiking trails , waterfalls , and, plenty of wildlife , including, you guessed it, kangaroos! Don't miss the famous Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park , and you can also kayak down the Kangaroo River or go horseback riding and wombat spotting.
Foodies will be in heaven here. Stop by one of the town's cute tea rooms for afternoon tea, pick up some fresh produce from the farmers market, and sample a fresh-baked pie from the famous Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop .
While you're here, save time to browse the gardens and galleries in Bowral , a 40-minute drive away. Planning to visit in the spring? Don't miss the Tulip Time Festival at Bowral's Corbett Gardens and other community venues.
Other worthwhile places to visit in the Southern Highlands include Berrima, Bundanoon, Mittagong, and Moss Vale. Top tourist attractions in these country towns include heritage buildings, gorgeous gardens, galleries, art studios, boutiques, spas, and antique shops.
If you're here for a romantic weekend getaway, The Laurels B&B is a lovely choice, with antique furniture, chandeliers, and clawfoot tubs.
![nsw weekend trips Snow gums in the Snowy Mountains](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-the-snowy-mountains.jpg)
Summer, winter, spring, or fall, outdoor activities are the main focus in the Snowy Mountains. This is the ideal weekend escape for active couples and families.
Wondering about a weekend getaway in New South Wales in winter? In the Snowy Mountains, you can ski or snowboard down the snow gum-spotted slopes at some of Australia's best ski resorts . If downhill skiing is not for you, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, and then snuggle by a crackling fire in the evening.
At other times of the year, popular things to do in the Snowy Mountains include trout fishing in the region's crystal-clear streams and lakes, mountain biking, rafting and kayaking along the mighty Snowy River , and hiking amid the snow gum forests and wind-whipped heathlands of Kosciuszko National Park . Serious hikers might want to spend the weekend tackling the 16.8-kilometer return hike to the summit of 2,228-meter-high Mount Kosciuszko , Australia's highest peak.
Prefer to soak up the rugged alpine scenery from the comfort of a car? Take the Kosciuszko Alpine Way, a scenic self-drive route, which runs for 108 kilometers from Canberra to Albury.
![nsw weekend trips New Parliament House](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-canberra.jpg)
Fabulous cafés and restaurants, provocative galleries, and thought-provoking museums and memorials make Canberra a cool spot for culture vultures. Designed by American architect, Walter Burley Griffin and his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin, the city is also easy on the eye. Gardens and green spaces punctuate urban areas, and glittering Lake Burley Griffin sits at its center, ringed by inviting walking tracks.
You'll find most of Canberra's top tourist attractions around Lake Burley Griffin in the Parliamentary Triangle . Here, you can tour New Parliament House and browse the exhibits at the Museum of Australian Democracy , the National Gallery of Australia, and Questacon: The National Science and Technology Centre. But if you only have time for one attraction, make it the Byzantine-style Australian War Memorial, a poignant tribute to the country's fallen soldiers. Families with kids will love the National Zoo and Aquarium.
Canberra is also famous for its family-friendly festivals. Floriade , held in September or October, is a particular favorite, with exhibits celebrating the city's colorful spring flowers, but you can admire the local flora at any time of the year at the Australian National Botanic Gardens . Canberra is also beautiful in the autumn, when fiery fall hues ignite the city's gardens.
The heritage-listed Hyatt Hotel Canberra , with Art Deco decor and a weekend high tea, puts you close to the top cultural attractions.
![nsw weekend trips Aerial view of Muttonbird Island](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/02/australia-sydney-weekend-getaways-coffs-harbour.jpg)
About 5.5 hours north of Sydney, Coffs Harbour is a long road trip from the city, but if you have a long weekend up your sleeve, it's worth it.
Families, in particular, will find plenty of things to do here. Bask on beautiful beaches; get up close with friendly marine mammals at the Dolphin Conservation Park ; or visit the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, where you can hike the scenic walking trails.
Other popular things to do include surfing, swimming, fishing, and kayaking, and you can also keep a lookout for migrating whales from May through November. For spectacular views of the coast and rainforest head to the Forest Sky Pier.
No visit to Coffs Harbour would be complete without stopping by the iconic Big Banana Fun Park, even if only for a photo op. The kids will love the water park, rides, and banana-themed desserts.
If you have time to explore further afield, try to squeeze in a drive along Waterfall Way . This 185-kilometer scenic drive connects Coffs Harbour and the New South Wales' town of Armidale passing by rugged river valleys, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife-rich national parks.
BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour makes a great base – especially for families. But you'll find a range of facilities and accommodation styles to suit everyone here, including couples and single travelers.
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12 romantic weekend stays in NSW
From spanish villas and bubbletents under the stars to secluded rooms within caves, treehouses and refurbed silos, explore some of nsw’s most unique getaways perfect for two..
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Destination NSW
Art, architecture, history & opulence: The Ark Coolamon
Set in a restored church, The Ark Coolamon is an extraordinary and unique accommodation where gothic arch doors, vaulted ceilings and Art Deco touches meet underfloor heating, lavish linen, silk robes and a clawfoot bath. Watch sunlight stream through the leadlight windows and into the nave, prepare a romantic meal together in the modern kitchen, or just relax in the sunny courtyard and cottage gardens. Beyond the Ark, the winding country roads around Coolamon , 40 minutes north-west of Wagga Wagga , bisect rolling landscapes and lead to pretty hamlets, walking trails, and the Riverina’s artisanal providores. The Ark Coolamon is – appropriately – perfect for two.
![The Ark, Coolamon - Credit: The Ark Coolamon Interior view of The Ark, Coolamon](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/The_Ark_Coolamon.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=zazzhndj)
The Ark, Coolamon - Credit: The Ark Coolamon
Secluded, self-contained & off-the-grid: Farmers Hut at Wilga Station
A scenic, three-hour drive from Sydney or Canberra, the Farmers Hut at Wilga Station is a modern, architecturally striking retreat for couples who want to seriously get away from it all. Start the day with a complimentary gourmet breakfast hamper and end it with a complimentary bottle of premium local wine and a sunset over the valley from your Scandi-inspired cabin. This working sheep station is also just 12 minutes from heritage-rich Bathurst , and 40 minutes from the wineries and fresh produce of Orange .
![Farmers Hut Wilga Station, Evans Plains - Credit: Wilga Station A grass roof, off the grid, luxury one bedroom “Farmers Hut”, Evans Plains](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/Farmers_Hut_Wilga_Station_0.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=JXqRHeEA)
Farmers Hut Wilga Station , Evans Plains - Credit: Wilga Station
A silo stay: Melrose Park Mudgee Silos
If you’re looking for totally different digs - and an amazing accommodation anecdote – check out the Instagram-friendly Melrose Park Mudgee Silos , 260km north-west of Sydney. Ideal for couples, there’s a bathroom silo, a kitchen/dining room silo and a bedroom silo all for your exclusive use. Huge, high doors are cut into the sides so you can stare out and up at the stars and Mount Frome. Spend your days exploring the local Mudgee wineries, or drive, hike or kayak among the canyons, forests and rivers in Wollemi National Park , just a two-hour drive away.
![Melrose Park Mudgee Silos, Mudgee - Credit: Melrose Park Mudgee Silos Vview of the Melrose Park Mudgee Silos, Mudgee](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Melrose_Park_Mudgee_Silos.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=GLsPIWSt)
Melrose Park Mudgee Silos , Mudgee - Credit: Melrose Park Mudgee Silos
Dog-friendly Blue Mountains idyll: Kookawood Rural Retreat
Nourishing for the soul – and any relationship – Kookawood Rural Retreat near the town of Rydal is a bucolic, two-bedroom farmhouse accommodation 35 minutes from Katoomba . Boasting dazzling views of the Blue Mountains from the deckchairs and outdoor bath, you’ll be sharing the property with pet cows and miniature horses, as well as local birds, kangaroos, wombats and echidnas. A fenced rear garden provides a safe space for any furry friends you bring along. Swim – or canoe, ski or fish – at nearby Lake Lyell in summer and snuggle by the log fire in winter. Explore the walking trails in any season and head to nearby Oberon for the sheer beauty of the Jenolan Caves and Mayfield gardens.
![Kookawood Rural Retreat, Blue Mountains - Credit: Kookawood Rural Retreat Bath at sunrise at Kookawood Rural Retreat, Blue Mountains](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/Kookawood_Rural_Retreat_bath_%20sunrise.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=jv5GV9ua)
Bath at sunrise at Kookawood Rural Retreat , Blue Mountains - Credit: Kookawood Rural Retreat
A trip to Basque country: Spicers Tower Lodge
A fusion to fan romantic flames, Spicers Tower Lodge in pretty Pokolbin is part hot-blooded Basque culture, part Pamplona-themed hacienda and part luxury villa, all set in one of Australia’s finest wine regions, the Hunter Valley . White walls, water features, terracotta stairs, Art Deco stonework and a restaurant inspired by Spanish pintxo bars set the mood, and you can keep the romance going with a trip over the Hunter in a hot air balloon or a tour of the local cellar doors . You can even order in a flamenco lesson for two. Olé!
![Spicers Tower Lodge courtyard, Pokolbin - Credit: Spicers Tower Lodge View of Spicers Tower Lodge courtyard, Pokolbin](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Spicers_Tower_Lodge_courtyard.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=bcNiuLE6)
Spicers Tower Lodge courtyard, Pokolbin - Credit: Spicers Tower Lodge
Love on the rocks: the Enchanted Cave
One of seven romantic Love Cabins getaways in the Blue Mountains , the Enchanted Cave near Bilpin is a self-contained slice of primal wilderness for two. Built on – and partially carved into – a rocky outcrop, the hot tub and bed overlook the valley’s ever-changing scenery, from the crisp light of dawn to the tapestry of the night’s stars. Explore the picturesque valley, book an invigorating in-cabin massage or just relax by the fireplace.
![Love Cabins, Blue Mountains - Credit: Love Cabins Interior view of the Enchanted Cave at Love Cabins, Blue Mountains](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Love_Cabins_Enchanted_Cave.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=8NBF6VvH)
Enchanted Cave at Love Cabins, Blue Mountains - Credit: Love Cabins
Love island: Arajilla Retreat, Lord Howe Island
Just a two-hour flight from Sydney, the pristine paradise of Lord Howe Island is restricted to just 400 visitors at any one time. And set on the sheltered, northern end of the exclusive island, Arajilla Retreat offers luxury suites – and an even more luxurious beach house – each with king beds, private decks and (at least one) bath. As a hint as to what you can expect, two of their packages are entitled ‘Elopement’ and ‘Honeymoon’. Think palm trees, privacy, spa treatments, intimate picnics, long walks by the lagoon and Lord Howe’s renowned snorkelling, scuba, hiking, cycling, fishing and water sports.
![Arajilla Retreat, Lord Howe Island - Credit: Arajilla Retreat View of Arajilla Retreat, Lord Howe Island](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Arajilla_Lord_Howe_Island.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=lPg5K5zs)
Arajilla Retreat , Lord Howe Island - Credit: Arajilla Retreat
It’s in the stars: Mirumiru Bubbletent
A starry-eyed night awaits at the glamping-with-a-difference Mirumiru Bubbletent , just south of the Queensland border on the Northern Tablelands plateau. A short drive from historic Tenterfield in the pretty New England region, your Bubbletent home among the gum trees features a transparent roof – your own window to the arcing milky way. Each tent is equipped with a deck overlooking the high-country, undercover gas cooking and campfire cooking facilities, as well as a private outdoor bath, shower and eco-toilet.
![Mirumiru Bubbletent, Tenterfield - Credit: Mirumiru Bubbletent View of the starry night sky from Mirumiru Bubbletent, Tenterfield](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_MiruMiru_Bubbletent_Tenterfield.jpg?h=2f1c71d5&itok=SZF1soGI)
Mirumiru Bubbletent , Tenterfield - Credit: Mirumiru Bubbletent
Rainforest serenity: River Room, Bellingen Treehouse
Perched in the branches like a lovebird, the River Room , Bellingen Treehouse sits beside the Never Never River on the Mid North Coast. Designed by legendary Australian architect Richard Leplastrier, the River Room is a spacious, comfortable and intimate treetop immersion. Open an entire wall like a garage door and invite the rainforest into your bedroom. Swim in the fresh waterhole in the front garden off your own pontoon. Listen to the river, the birdlife and the rain on the roof. Walk, canoe and ride in the adjacent national parks. Breathe. Repeat. Cooking options are limited so dine out in Bellingen – with excellent restaurants just 10 minutes away.
![Bellingen Treehouse, Bellingen - Credit: Bellingen Treehouse River room at Bellingen Treehouse, Bellingen](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Bellingen_Treehouse.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=YfQeLK6s)
River room at Bellingen Treehouse , Bellingen - Credit: Bellingen Treehouse
Headland heritage: Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages
Built on a clifftop looking out to sea, Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages offer a unique, romantic and secluded weekend getaway. Built in 1875, the two Assistant Keepers’ Cottages are heritage-listed, self-contained, classically furnished and feature a full kitchen. Located on the Mid North Coast, the cottages also boast expansive outdoors areas, where you can barbecue, eat and drink with an up-close-and-personal ocean view. Visit the still-active lighthouse, explore Seal Rocks village and wander the trails and beaches of Myall Lakes National Park .
![Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages, Seal Rocks - Credit: Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages View of Heritage Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages, Sugarloaf Point](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/ATDW_Heritage_Lighthouse_Keepers_Cottages_Sugarloaf-Point.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=Xu-v_Jp3)
Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages , Seal Rocks - Credit: Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages
Luxury for animal lovers: Jaguar Stay
Jaguar Stay promises to be a fiercely fun weekend. It is set beside – and within roaring distance of – Mogo Wildlife Park . This internationally regarded private zoo is home to more than 250 exotic and rare animals. Each of the six private, luxurious villas has a king bed, ensuite bathroom, deck, fire pit and plunge pool; one villa is wheelchair accessible, and its plunge pool is fitted with a sling-style lift. Huge windows gaze out at surrounding farmland and pristine Australian bush. Take the short drive to Tomakin and Broulee beaches, paddle upstream to Mossy Point , wander through the bush or cycle the nearby tracks. And don’t miss the nearby bohemian village of Mogo .
![Jaguar Stay, Mogo - Credit: Sarah Tebb View from inside overlooking private pool at Jaguar Stay, Mogo](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2022-12/Jaguar_Stay.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=YfVbNGd-)
Private pool and interior at Jaguar Stay , Mogo - Credit: Sarah Tebb
A night on the water: Runaway Bear houseboat
One of many Berger Houseboats operating on the winding Tweed River in northern NSW, Runaway Bear is a compact vessel perfect for two. No boat licence or experience is required – just a quick lesson and you’re on your way. Pull up wherever you like and cook on the barbecue or in the kitchenette, which includes a fridge, stovetop and grill. Explore the inlets, bays and islands of the Tweed, fish and swim, and use your complimentary dinghy to reach shops, galleries and taverns along the riverbank.
![Berger Houseboat Holidays, Tweed Heads - Credit: Berger Houseboat Holidays Berger Houseboat Holidays, Tweed Heads](https://www.visitnsw.com/sites/visitnsw/files/styles/article_mobile_x2/public/2023-01/Berger_Houseboat_Holidays_Tweed_Heads.jpg?h=b584a81a&itok=4FVC6mpj)
Berger Houseboat Holidays , Tweed Heads - Credit: Berger Houseboat Holidays
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Bucket List Seekers
Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples
ACT , Australia , New South Wales , Weekend Getaways · February 16, 2021
Weekend Getaways Sydney: 15 Incredible Weekend Trips from Sydney for Couples
![nsw weekend trips Weekend Getaways Sydney – 15 Incredible Weekend Trips for Couples](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Sydney-Getaways-Pinterest-33-2-150x150.png?f=auto)
Looking to take a romantic weekend away from Sydney with your main squeeze?
While Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to live in, sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle and get out with your beloved for a weekend getaway from Sydney.
We’ve put together a list of the 15 best weekend getaways Sydney couples will love, so you can plan your next sneaky romantic trip.
Whether you’re looking for an idyllic farm stay, a weekend of wine tasting, a foodie trip, or an active weekend hiking in the bush – we’ve got you sorted. This list of weekend trips from Sydney has something for every type of couple!
Here are 15 incredible weekend getaways Sydney couples should add to their must-do list!
Planning a romantic vacay? These 13 best destinations in the world for a couples holiday will inspire you to book a trip ASAP!
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In This Post:
The Best Romantic Weekend Getaways from Sydney
#1 | the blue mountains.
![nsw weekend trips Three Sisters Blue Mountains - Romantic Weekend Getaways from Sydney for couples](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/weekend-getaways-sydney-blue-mountains-1.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes
Where to Stay: Fairmont Resort & Spa
Arguably one of the most beautiful places within driving distance from Sydney is the gorgeous Blue Mountains – the perfect place to head with your main squeeze!
Known for the signature blue haze that is at its best during sunset, the Blue Mountains offers stunning scenery, cute cafes and luxe BnBs along the villages set along the Blue Mountains ridge. It’s only 1.5 hours drive from Sydney but truly feels worlds away.
The best thing about the Blue Mountains is that it offers something for everyone to do on a weekend away from Sydney, during every season.
Summer is perfect for active couples looking to go canyoning or picnic under one of the many waterfalls. The shoulder seasons offer exceptional hiking, as well as cherry blossom viewing in spring, and gorgeous bursts of oranges, reds and yellows in autumn.
In the wintertime, curl up in front of an open fire with your other half and a glass of red wine and a good book. There are so many beautiful and unique places to stay in the Blue Mountains.
#2 | Jervis Bay
![nsw weekend trips Jervis Bay Beach couple - 15 Romantic Weekend Getaway from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/weekend-getaways-sydney-jervis-bay-couple.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay: Huskisson Hotel
How about spending your next romantic weekend away, with a trip to the beachside location of Jervis Bay, just south of Sydney. There are about 100 square kilometres in the Bay, more than 10 different beaches, and many small towns to isolate and discover together.
Getting there is easier by car, taking roughly three hours and giving you more flexibility to explore. However, there are options for bus transfers from Sydney, which take about 5 hours but reduce how far you can go.
Enjoy those romantic walks on the white sandy beaches, watch a sunset together, taste some local wines, swim in the clear turquoise water, or discover the natural bushland surroundings. Whatever the activity, you’re both going to enjoy your time away together.
Jervis Bay’s accommodations options are available to suit the budget and style of every couple. Anything from Bed and Breakfasts, cute little cottages, seaside houses, or waterfront resorts. Look out for special deals and surprise your special someone with this fantastic trip away. You won’t regret it!
Recommended by Chris from Aquarius Traveller
Read Next: 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List
#3 | Kangaroo Valley
![nsw weekend trips Carington Falls Kangaroo Valley - Romantic Weekend Getaways from Sydney for couples](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-trip-carington-falls-kangaroo-valley-min.jpeg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 2.5 hours
Where to Stay: Wildes Hotel Kangaroo Valley
The beautiful Kangaroo Valley is a bucket list place to visit in Australia and the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway from Sydney.
Lying 150 kilometres south of Sydney via the Princess Highway, the valley’s lush green countryside fringed by the towering walls of the Illawarra Escarpment is a nature’s playground dotted with tall waterfalls and panoramic lookouts.
When you are ready to start exploring, there are plenty of things to do in Kangaroo Valley . For invigorating nature adventures, hit the Three Views walking track, go kayaking on the Kangaroo River with Kangaroo Valley safari or zip-line through the rainforest canopy at Illawarra Fly.
For more low-key exploration, check out the 170-meter-tall Belmore Falls, the panoramic views at Cambewarra Mountain Lookout or take a stroll around the charming Kangaroo Valley village.
For wine connoisseurs, there are half a dozen wineries within easy reach of the valley. The adorable family-run Yarrawarra Estate is tucked away on the lakeshore, a 20-minute drive from the village. The charming and homely atmosphere of Yarrawarra Estate makes you feel like you are visiting your family or friend’s home on a beautiful farm.
Recommended by Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries
Read Next : Flying in Australia during COVID: Everything You Need to Know!
#4 | Mollymook
![nsw weekend trips Mollymook Beach at Sunrise - the perfect Sydney Weekend away](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaways-mollymook-beach.jpeg?f=auto)
Where to Stay: Bannisters by the Sea
A gorgeous beachside town in the Shoalhaven region, south of Sydney, Mollymook is a romantics paradise and one of the best weekend trips from Sydney.
Known for its exceptionally great accommodation options, foodie hotspots, cellar doors and outdoor activities, it’s the perfect romantic getaway for every type of couple.
Foodies and wine lovers will want to check out Milk Haus , Small Town Provisions , and the cellar door and restaurant at Cupitt’s Estate . Plus you can’t miss a dining experience at the award-winning Rick Stein at Bannisters .
Outdoor enthusiasts can tee off at the Mollymook Beachside Golf Course, or tackle the 3-hour long Pidgeon House Mountain Didthul walking track, ending the uphill trek with rewarding views over the Shoalhaven from the summit.
#5 | Palm Beach
![nsw weekend trips Palm Beach, Sydney - The perfect weekend away](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-palm-beach-sunset-min.jpeg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 1 hour
Where to Stay: Barrenjoey House
If you’re looking to escape the city but not go too far, Palm Beach lies just under an hour’s drive north, which makes it the perfect place for a short getaway from Sydney.
With a unique location on a peninsula, you’ll get to enjoy both the open ocean and surf beaches, as well as the calm bay and the Pittwater Lagoon.
Palm Beach is one of the best beaches on Australia’s east coast with plenty of outdoor activities. If you and your significant other enjoy the great outdoors this little town is for you.
Once you’ve had enough of lazy days by the beach you should absolutely go on a hike to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. It only takes around 30 minutes to walk to the lighthouse and the views more than make it worth the trek. You’ll be able to see the entire bay and the beautiful Palm Beach below which is a breathtaking sight. After a little picnic by the lighthouse, you can head back down to have a romantic dinner in town at one of the many quaint restaurants.
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
![nsw weekend trips Umina Beach, Central Coast - 15 Romantic Weekend Getaway from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/weekend-getaways-sydney-umina-beach-central-coast.jpg?f=auto)
#6 | Central Coast
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 1.5 hours
Where to Stay: Pretty Beach House
The NSW Central Coast is a fabulous place for a weekend escape from Sydney. With stunning waterways, dozens of pristine beaches and no less than three National Parks on its doorstep its natural beauty takes many by surprise.
At less than 90km or so from Sydney CBD to the southern tip of the region, your weekend break will not be spent driving, yet the environment here makes you feel like you have gone much further. Even if you don’t have a car, you can easily reach Woy Woy by train and base yourself in one at Ettalong, Pearl Beach or Patonga. All of these are serviced by buses from the train station.
One of the popular things to do is tackle one of the many Central Coast Walks , which allows you to enjoy the views and work up an appetite for the exciting food scene the region offers.
Try to include some time to visit Bouddi National Park, the waterfront restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf in Woy Woy and the Distillery Botanica , at nearby Erina, a beautiful venue on 3 acres of lush gardens. There are literally dozens of Insta-worthy cafes to hit up for breakfast and lunch so you will likely need to do quite a few walks to go home without some extra kgs!
Recommended by Paula from the Sydney Expert
#7 | Berowra Waters
![nsw weekend trips Berowra Waters aerial - Weekend trips from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-berowra-waters-min.jpeg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: 50 minutes
Where to Stay: Calabash Bay Lodge
Tucked away in a hidden section of the Hawkesbury is a tiny hidden oasis with waterfront accommodation, Berowra Waters is one of those weekend getaways Sydney locals or visitors may not know about. The tiny creekside village is surrounded by hills and bushland and is only accessible by boat. It’s a perfect short getaway from Sydney, as it only takes 50 minutes to get there.
The iconic Berowra Waters Inn is a beautiful waterfront restaurant serving Modern Australian cuisine and can only be accessed by private ferry or seaplane, making it the perfect place to dine during your very secluded weekend escape from Sydney.
There’s not a lot of things to do in Berowra Waters – but that’s part of the charm. There are a number of great walking trails surrounding Berowra Creek, or perhaps a spot of canoeing or kayaking might be the go. The Berowra Food, Wine and Arts Market is held on the 2 nd Sunday of every month between 9 am and 2 pm.
![nsw weekend trips](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-berry-nsw-min.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours
Where to Stay: The Berry Inn
For those looking for a foodie trip, then Berry is the perfect place for your romantic weekend getaway from Sydney. This historic little town is an easy two-hour drive from Sydney and for road trip lovers, there’s some beautiful scenery to be seen on the journey which will take you either via the Southern Highlands or the Grand Pacific Drive.
There are so many things to do in Berry that will suit every couple’s taste including hikes, wine tasting, history and lots and lots of eating. For active couples who want a romantic and expansive view of the beautiful Shoalhaven region, the moderately challenging hike to the Drawing Room Rocks is unmissable.
For couples who’d prefer to take it easy, a long and leisurely brunch at one of Berry’s many picture-perfect cafes is the way to go.
To really up the romance stakes, a picnic in Apex park on a summer afternoon would definitely impress and there are also plenty of local wineries to explore nearby.
Recommended by Emma from Emma Jane Explores
#9 | Wolgan Valley
![nsw weekend trips Kangaroo in Wolgan Valley - Romantic Weekend Getaways from Sydney for couples](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaways-kangaroo-wolgan-valley.jpeg?f=auto)
Where to Stay: Wildnest Farmstay
Nestled in a remote valley on the Northern side of the Blue Mountains is the ultra-luxe One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort – the quintessential Sydney weekend getaway spot for couples with cash to splash.
The One&Only Wolgan Valley resort is one of the most exclusive places to stay in Australia and should be on everyone’s Australia Bucket List .
Surrounded by towering cliffs that block most mobile phone signals, the resort is absolutely stunning and completely secluded. Some of the things to do around the Wolgan Valley include horse-riding, birdwatching, gin tasting, mountain biking, stargazing or simply relaxing at the spa.
There may be a hefty price tag that comes with staying at the One&Only Wolgan Valley , but one thing is for sure – after a weekend here, you’ll feel completely rejuvenated.
#10 | Mudgee
![nsw weekend trips Mudgee Sunset - 15 Romantic Weekend Getaway from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/weekend-getaways-sydney-mudgee-sunset.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3.5 hours
Where to Stay: 70 On Mortimer
For an amazing weekend away from Sydney, head to Mudgee for a few days of wine and relaxation.
About a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney, Mudgee is home to over 35 wineries, making it an ideal spot for amazing food, local produce and cheeses, and wines.
Try booking a private wine tour, so you can sample the best in the region without having to drive. Some of the best include The Cellar by Gilbert , Lowe Wines , and Logan Wines . High Valley Cheese Co is also worth a stop, so you can pick up nibbles for later in your room.
Come home after a day of wine touring or sightseeing and cuddle up by the fire, a beautiful way to spend quality time together.
Recommended by Katie from The Terrible Cook
#11 | Hunter Valley Wine Region
![nsw weekend trips Hunter Valley Winery - Weekend trips from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-hunter-valley-winery-min.jpeg?f=auto)
Where to Stay: Harrigan’s Hunter Valley
As Australia’s most historic wine region, the Hunter Valley makes a great option for a romantic getaway from Sydney for couples. Whether you are looking for an activity-filled weekend or a relaxing luxury retreat.
The highlight of a trip to the Hunter Valley will likely be a visit to one of around 150 wineries in the region. You can stroll through the vineyards, have a look behind the scenes at the wine-making process, or take part in a tasting or food pairing to discover your favourite varieties.
Many wineries in this region specialize in Semillon or Shiraz, and most offer cellar door tastings and tours. It’s easy to drive between wineries, or alternatively, you can hire bicycles to get around.
For a particularly memorable experience, consider a hot air balloon flight or helicopter ride for panoramic views. Another popular option for couples is a round of golf or a visit to the spa, or perhaps a couples massage.
Recommended by Claire from Claire Pins Travel
#12 | Canberra
![nsw weekend trips Parliament House Canberra - The perfect weekend away Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaways-parliament-house-canberra.jpg?f=auto)
Where to Stay: QT Canberra
Canberra has somewhat of a reputation as a boring city full of politicians and bureaucrats. But there’s so much more than meets the eye.
Canberra is one of the very few examples of ‘planned cities’ in the world, featuring beautifully constructed parks and buildings. There are many romantic corners of the city for you to explore with your loved one. And being only three hours drive away, it’s a great option for a short getaway from Sydney.
If you’ve never been to Canberra before, there are a few must-dos. Such as visiting the Australian Parliament House , the National Museum , and the Australian War Memorial .
However, if you‘re in search of some romantic things to do in Canberra , opt for the 5 km Bridge-to-Bridge Walk around Lake Burley Griffin at sunset, or climb up to Mount Ainslie lookout, the spot where architect Burley Griffin came up with the Canberra city plan. The entire city and the lake will be laid out in front of you – a truly special place!
Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet
#13 | Seal Rocks
![nsw weekend trips Seal Rocks Lighthouse - The perfect weekend away Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-seal-rocks.png?f=auto)
Where to Stay: Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages
Located around three hours north of Sydney, Seal Rocks is one of the best romantic weekend escapes from Sydney. With its pristine white sand beaches, Seal Rocks is a dream destination for couples looking to spend time relaxing on isolated beaches. The beaches found here are some of the best in New South Wales!
The Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is a must-see in Seal Rocks. This picturesque spot offers panoramic views of the shoreline and is a popular area to spot whales and dolphins. Enjoy a romantic picnic along the grassy lawn located elevated above the local Boat Beach. Here, couples can enjoy an idyllic lunch as they watch the crystal-clear water brush up against the shore.
For those looking to swim, head over to the gorgeous Number One Beach. Stretching for 1.3 km, swimmers should head to the southern end of the beach to enjoy a relaxing and romantic time in the water.
A scenic hike in Seal Rocks is the Neranie Headland track offering fantastic views of Myall Lakes. Highlights of this walk include angelic butterflies fluttering around, a historic 19th-century cemetery, and the natural Myall Lakes.
Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips
#14 | Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
![nsw weekend trips Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Great Mackeral Beach - weekend getaway sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-ku-ring-gai-chase-national-park.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 50 minutes
Where to Stay: Scotland Island Lodge
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a wonderful place for Sydney couples who are looking to take a sneaky weekend away, or extend their Sydney itinerary and explore some of the beautiful northern suburbs. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a stones-throw away from the CBD and offers some amazing quiet, secluded beaches and fantastic hiking trails.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is also home to one of the largest known concentrations of recorded Aboriginal sites in all of Australia. The Basin Aboriginal art site is one of the best examples of Aboriginal rock engravings in the park. It’s best to go either early morning or late afternoon to see the engravings (this is because the shadows will make it easier to see).
Another great reason to visit Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is to see Barrenjoey Lighthouse. It was built in 1881 and is an iconic Sydney attraction. There are trails that will take you to the lighthouse or you can also see it from the impressive views of the West Head lookout. This lookout also offers fantastic views of Broken Bay and Pittwater.
To get there from the CBD, you could either drive or take the L90 bus from Wynyard Station all the way to Palm Beach and then hop on the ferry to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The ferry is a private business, so the Opal card will not work. The cost is $17 for a round trip.
Recommended by Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel
#15 | Orange
![nsw weekend trips Vineyards in Orange in winter - The perfect weekend away Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-lesterlost-travel-australia-nsw-orange-fly-stay-luxe-sydney-weekend-trips.jpg?f=auto)
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 4 hours
Where to Stay: Byng Street Boutique Hotel
New South Wales has some great wine areas within driving distance of Sydney. Orange is located in Central West NSW, surrounded by wineries, making it a perfect weekend trip for couples coming from Sydney to visit some great cellar doors.
Due to its slight elevation, Orange is especially known for its cold climate white wines. If you are a lover of crisp, European-inspired dry wines, then you’ll certainly find yourself at home in Orange.
In Orange, the wineries make wine tasting a bit of a ritual. Rather than standing at the counter randomly tasting wines, you get to sit down and go through the selection. In some places, you can also indulge in a long lazy lunch.
The other major attraction of Orange is its excellent local produce and the plethora of restaurants competing for the title of “ best in Central West ”. While many Australian country towns struggle on the restaurant front, Orange is well ahead of the game and offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in a romantic dinner.
Whether you are looking for a generous breakfast, an Asian fusion experience or a totally new food indulgence, Orange is the place to be and you’ll be forgiven for wanting to extend your weekend away from Sydney just a little longer.
Recommended by Delphine from LesterLost
Read Next: The Ultimate World Travel Bucket List – 150+ Places to See Before You Die
![nsw weekend trips Belmore Falls - Weekend trips from Sydney](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/sydney-weekend-getaway-belmore-falls.jpg?f=auto)
Ready to Book Your Sydney Weekend Getaway?
For the ultimate ‘private’ experience during your romantic getaway from Sydney we highly recommend Airbnb. We’ve taken the time to pick out the best Airbnbs for couples in each destination in this article. Hopefully this will make finding the perfect place to stay for you and your special other a bit easier. Please consider clicking through these links to book your stay and help support our business so we can continue to produce great articles like this one.
Looking to explore further afield? Check out our list of Australia’s top 50+ famous Landmarks to Add to Your Bucket List or our Ultimate World Travel Bucket list !
Are you based elsewhere in Australia? Be sure to check out our other Couples Getaway Guides from other Australian destinations such as Brisbane , Melbourne , Perth & Tasmania .
We hope this article has helped you to plan your next romantic weekend getaway from Sydney. If you know of any other places you think should be on this list, please let us know in the comments below.
![nsw weekend trips Views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from underneath - one of the most famous Australian landmarks](https://cdn.statically.io/img/bucketlistseekers.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/sydney-harbour-bridge-australia.jpeg?f=auto)
Planning to explore more of Australia? Read on for inspiration:
- The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
- 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia
- 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
- 15 Weekend Getaways from Sydney
- 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria
- 8 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Perth for Couples
- 15 Best Weekend Trips from Brisbane
- 9 Places for a Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tasmania
- Ultimate 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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6 weekend getaways in New South Wales for escaping bustling Sydney
With its famous landmarks, scenic harbours and bustling cosmopolitan vibe, Sydney sure is one of Australia’s national treasures. But when Sydneysiders get caught up in the rat race, it can be refreshing and exciting to get away from it all.
Imagine settling down on a secluded patio with a glass of local sparkling wine, or hiking away from city troubles into the untouched flora of national parks. There’s a destination, activity and hotel for every type of traveller, and you don’t even have to drive far to find them. So pack your weekend bag, hop in the car and ready yourself for a rejuvenating (and cheap!) weekend getaway, NSW-style.
Treat yourself to a beach resort NSW weekend getaway
A weekend away at the beachside Crown Plaza Terrigal Pacific will make you forget about the hustle and bustle of city life. The coastline and its soft sand beaches are steps from the foyer, so you can spend the morning walking along the shore or floating in warm blue waters.
If you’ve come on a romantic retreat, you’ll want to check into the Premium Ocean-view Suite for long, intimate evenings on your private balcony over the sea. In the morning, wake in your luxurious king-sized bed with views out to the ocean through swaying pine trees while your partner – earning serious brownie points – orders an in-room breakfast of freshly squeezed juices, jam-filled pastries or the hotel’s signature Terrigal Eggs Benedict.
You’ll have a view of the hotel pool from your balcony, but rather than watching the swimmers below you might opt to join them for a post-breakfast splash. Or kick-start the day with a sweat session in the resort’s light-filled gym, followed by an invigorating barefoot run down the beach. Reward yourself for your exercise with a fresh seafood platter for two at Seasalt Restaurant, where you’ll tuck into succulent local prawns, oysters and blue swimmer crab. When the sun begins its end-of-day display, order a glass (or bottle) of wine sourced from local Firescreek Winery to enjoy to the gentle lullaby of ocean waves.
Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific, an IHG Hotel
Get back to nature with a blue mountains getaway.
You’ll find Blue Mountains Heritage Motel in the historic and charm-filled mountain town of Katoomba, nestled snugly in the serene Blue Mountains. At just a two-hour drive from Sydney, you can leave work and be in the mountains in time for happy hour (we say go for a Pino Grigio from Megalong Creek Estate). You’ll pass the night in cosy comfort, what with a crackling fire, a soft snowfall beyond your window and the cool mountain air to lull you to sleep.
The next day, fill up on pan-fried eggs, bacon and tomatoes in the hotel dining room before heading out to explore nearby local landmarks like the Three Sisters lookout or Echo Point. Or if you’d rather stick around for the day and take it easy, you can fire up the guest barbecue for a feast with the family as the sun sets over the mountain range.
Groups or families of up to four will feel at home in the Family Room, where various bed configurations and kitchen facilities give you independence during your stay. Kids will be kept entertained by the free Wi-Fi when you’re not off exploring Katoomba, and aircon and central heating will keep you cool in summer and toasty on crisp winter nights.
Those without kids in tow can check into the King Spa Suite for a romance-infused getaway: picture a luxe king-sized bed and shareable spa bath, both best enjoyed in combination with the complimentary bottle of wine you’ll find in your room on arrival.
Blue Mountains Heritage Motel
Feast on seafood under the sun on a weekend getaway from sydney.
Up the northern coast of NSW and within driving distance for an easy weekend trip from Sydney, you’ll find sun, surf and seafood at the Quality Inn City Centre . Flanked by blue waters, pristine beaches and vibrant green forests, the town of Coffs Harbour makes a quaint, marine-based weekend getaway destination for couples and groups alike.
The hotel’s Marinara Restaurant, located on the ground floor, plates up modern Australian cuisine mixed with Italian seafood classics. Order up a plate of fresh pasta or shellfish while you sip on a glass of Riverbank Red from local Raleigh Winery. Later, you can welcome the evening with a casual stroll along the marina to the soundtrack of crashing waves and gentle sea breezes.
Three-bedroom townhouses let friends or family groups spread out across large, spacious living areas. You’ll want to swing by the Harbourside Markets for fresh produce to prepare a group meal in your fully serviced kitchenette, then eat at your leisure in the large dining area and lounge. Or you can go super local by fishing for your supper off the town jetty, then grilling your catch of local bream on your personal barbecue.
Kids can scamper out to the townhouse’s private courtyard while the adults crack open a cold one from nearby Bellingen Brewery. Deluxe hotel-style rooms are ideal for couples’ retreats – picture cuddling up to watch a film from your king-sized bed as the sun sets over the beach through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Quality Hotel City Centre
Lavish yourself with luxury on your nsw weekend getaway.
Surrounded by lush rainforest and white, sandy beaches, Elements of Byron by Sofitel is a top-shelf luxury resort near the coveted locale of Byron Bay. When you arrive, head straight to the poolside café and order a herbal tea or coffee to be brought to your sunlounger while you dip your toes in the invitingly warm water of the lagoon swimming pool. With your sandals off, you might as well feel the sand beneath your feet on the beach – you can reach the ocean shore via a private path reserved for guests of the hotel. Or, if you’re all about the pampering, head to the hotel spa for an afternoon of scented oil and stress-busting massage.
Villas here come in all shapes and sizes, but if romance is what you’re after you’ll want to reserve a Luxury Villa for two. Imagine sinking into the hot, soapy water of your freestanding bath while you gaze out large windows into the lush treescape of the grounds. Rooms are whitewashed for a feeling of never-ending summer, made even better by the sound of the water lapping the beach when you wake in your crisply dressed bed.
The on-site Azure Bar and Grill offers world-class dishes made from locally sourced produce for all tastes. The restaurant puts an emphasis on cooking with fire, so sit back to enjoy the dramatics of your kingfish or a Darling Downs wagyu scotch fillet being grilled to perfection over a roaring flame. Veggie lovers will find plentiful all-veg options, too, and there are Asian fusion dishes like scallop sashimi and prawn dumplings for lighter bites.
Head to happening Newcastle for a fun-filled weekend
The Lucky is smack in the vibrant hub of Newcastle, a mere two-hour drive from the centre of Sydney and a convenient option for a weekend getaway. Once a regional mining town, Newcastle has grown in popularity over the past decade and is now known for its trendy bars, pubs, restaurants and booming nightlife – a winning recipe for getting away from Sydney’s rat race without losing that cosmopolitan energy.
This heritage pub, built in the 1800s, is chock full of antiques for a cool vibe of bygone days. You’ll still have access to modern comforts in the large, leafy beer garden and dining area, though, so settle in for a nice cold glass of Little Creatures or O’Brien’s IPA while you groove to nightly live bands. If you’re feeling peckish, the restaurant on the hotel’s ground floor offers some of the best American barbecue fare north of Sydney. Treat yourself to smoked and sticky ribs, sausages or salads while you bask in feeling the sun on your back.
Rooms here are close to the action of the bar but are soundproofed and double-glazed so you can sleep undisturbed. You could spend your evening exploring the Newcastle foreshore, popping into local gems like Lord Nelson or The Harbour Bar to experience the nightlife like a local, before taking the short stroll back to your room. After a restful sleep, wake in your Terrace Suite and greet the new day from your private balcony or garden. A strong coffee brewed in-room will be the perfect re-energiser before a day wandering Bathers Way Coastal Walk or the Newcastle Farmers Market.
The Lucky Hotel
Jump in the car for a nsw weekend getaway in easy-access wollongong.
The Adina Wollongong is in a prime locale for surf, sand and sunshine, making it ideal for the kind of chilled weekend getaways Sydney-siders love – so get to packing your boogie board and sunscreen! After your breezy journey down the Grand Pacific Drive, you’ll reach the shimmering beaches of Wollongong and your short-term home – which, conveniently, is in walking distance to the beaches, restaurants and nightlife of the area.
You’ll have your choice of three room types: studio, one and two bedroom. In the studio, you can start each morning with a lazy lie-in in your cushy king-sized bed while sunlight pours in through floor-to-ceiling windows. The bedroom apartments provide light, airy spaces both inside and out – think whitewashed lounges and private balconies – so you and your friends can breathe in that ocean air whether you’re outside or not. If you’re feeling energetic, you can go for a bush walk and survey Illawarra from Mt Keira’s highest vantage point.
You can easily try out the endless dining options in Wollongong using the hotel’s handy charge-back service. Pop into cool eateries all over the city, and the restaurant will arrange your bill with the hotel so you can grab your grub without having to dig for your purse. We recommend checking out the menu of fragrant, spice-laden curries at Manjit’s Indian Restaurant – you can wash down a mouthwatering shahi chilli chicken with an ice-cold Tiger beer, then stroll down to Wollongong beach to sit in the sand and watch the sunset.
Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong
Feature image courtesy of gg-foto / Fotolia
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Escape the daily grind with our range of romantic getaways NSW wide! From luxury hotels in Sydney to winery getaways, and weekend escapes to indulging Blue Mountains retreats, there are endless experiences to choose from perfect for you and your loved one. There is nothing more special then spending some quality time together with one of RedBalloon’s romantic getaways in NSW.
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Top romantic getaways in NSW
Is you’re loved one in desperate need of a little holiday? Do you even remember the last time you guys took time out for yourselves and decided to get away for the weekend or midweek? Now is the perfect time to whisk your partner away on a well deserved romantic getaway. With our range of packages available all around NSW you’ll find the perfect destination from Byron Bay and the Hunter Valley, to the Blue Mountains and South Coast.
Romantic getaways are some of the best gift ideas for a special occasion from an anniversary, Mother’s Day, milestone birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and more! There is nothing more thoughtful then gifting that special someone time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is the type of gift they will think of for years to come and since they get to enjoy it with their plus one, it makes it that much more special.
Best romantic getaways in NSW?
At RedBalloon, you’ll find some of the best romantic getaways NSW has to offer, from award-winning hotels to cosy retreats and everything in between. We offer a wide variety of packages at locations all around the state, so you can find the perfect experience for you! Some of our customers favourite romantic getaway experiences include:
1. Blue Mountains escape with deluxe room, breakfast and wine: escape to the Blue Mountains where you can relax, unwind and explore the natural beauty of the World Heritage listed National Park. Stay overnight in a spacious deluxe room featuring your own private balcony or luxurious spa bath and enjoy a tasty gourmet breakfast. 2. Midweek Hunter Valley Getaway with case of wine: escape the city for two nights to a secluded Hunter Valley vineyard where your luxury accommodation awaits. Take in the mountain view and watch the kangaroos from your private deck, stroll the vineyards and drink award-winning wines, local olive oil and tasting plate. 3. Overnight CBD getaway with breakfast: Treat yourself and a loved one to a boutique hotel experience in the heart of the Sydney CBD. Staying overnight in a stylish Junior Suite, this package includes breakfast, sparkling wine and a late 1pm check-out. 4. Two night Bryon break with dinner, wine and massages: Escape to Bryon Bay to relax and unwind amongst subtropical rainforest. This two-night package includes breakfast and yoga each morning, as well as massages and $130 dinner voucher to use on a night of your choice. You won’t ever want to leave!
Where to go for a romantic weekend getaway in NSW?
You’ll find a wide range of romantic weekend getaways available at RedBalloon, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re after a coastal beach house, country escape or a staycation, our experiences are designed to create special memories for you and your loved ones. Our top rated weekend getaway packages include:
1. Romantic weekend glamping getaway for 3 nights: immerse yourself in nature by heading to the mountains for a three night weekend escape. Here you will stay in a luxurious glamping tent, fitted out with a king bed, ensuite bathroom and log fire. Positioned by the tranquil Turon River, choose to do as little or as much as you like. 2. Relaxing country weekend getaway with wine: a relaxing, romantic getaway to Stroud is just what you need! This peaceful, rustic accomodation package in an upper Hunter township is a world away from the stresses of day to day life. Relax in the spacious hot tub, enjoy local wine (included) and savour the peace and quiet. Romantic overnight package at The Langham Sydney: a 5 star overnight getaway in Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct awaits! Experience true decadence in a deluxe city view room, complete with a welcome bottle of sparkling wine on arrival.
What to pack for a romantic weekend getaway?
Depending on the type of package you book and its location, what you pack can vary. If you’re heading to a coastal region ensure to pack swimmers and casual clothes. If you’re getaway is to the wine region or Blue Mountains, it can be cooler there during Winter so ensure you pack warm clothes and a jacket. Some experiences may include a dinner so ensure you have something nice to wear… it is always a nice surprise when you dress up for your loved one! A romantic getaway is the perfect excuse to travel in style, so feel free to pull out your favourite outfits for the weekend.
How to plan a romantic weekend getaway in NSW?
With a RedBalloon experience, we’ve made planning a romantic getaway easy! We’ve done all the hard work for you by curating packages that are all about spending quality time together. Why not choose one of our romantic getaways that includes a number of amazing experiences. For example the Hunter Valley Bed, Breakfast and Ballooning package includes accommodation, a sunrise hot air balloon flight and champagne breakfast. By booking an getaway with included experiences, it makes the weekend that little bit more special as you’re creating amazing memories together.
What to do on a romantic getaway in NSW?
There are plenty of amazing things you can do on a romantic getaway but the most important thing is to spend quality time together and take time out to connect. During your escape, make sure you do a few activities or experiences that are fun, unique or something you’ve never done before so you can make it a memorable escape. At the end of the holiday, you will feel have had an amazing time together and already be planning your next couples retreat! If you need a little help, we offer plenty of amazing activities and things to do in the area to compliment your getaway with, including a range of experiences for 2 . Discover all our NSW experiences from hot air ballooning in the Hunter Valley to surfing in Byron Bay. Find plenty of ideas below:
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- Things to do in the Blue Mountains
- Things to do in Regional NSW
- Things to do in Byron Bay
With the range of romantic getaways NSW wide on offer at RedBalloon, you will be spoilt for choice on which package to experience with your loved one! Whether you’re after a weekend staycation or a midweek escape to the country, the options are endless! Gift someone the ultimate time together with a romantic escape in NSW.
Looking for more getaway ideas? RedBalloon offers a variety of accommodation packages, perfect if you’re looking to get away with the family, friends or loved one. If you’re looking for getaway ideas based on location, discover our curated range of getaways in popular states. You can enjoy our range of:
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![nsw weekend trips A streak of light moves downward to the left of the Milky Way visible in a starry sky over a shadowed hillside.](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2022/01/01/multimedia/01sci-spacecalendar-perseids-1-25a2/01sci-spacecalendar-perseids-1-25a2-articleLarge-v3.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
The Perseids Meteor Shower Is Peaking. Here’s How to Watch.
Warm summer nights and swift colorful streaks make this meteor shower a crowd favorite, but this year, observers may have to compete with light from the moon.
Perseid meteors fell over northern Spain in August 2021. Credit... Pedro Puente Hoyos/EPA, via Shutterstock
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By Katrina Miller
- Published Aug. 9, 2024 Updated Aug. 11, 2024
Our universe might be chock-full of cosmic wonder, but you can observe only a fraction of astronomical phenomena with your naked eye. Meteor showers, natural fireworks that streak brightly across the night sky, are one of them.
The latest observable meteor shower will be the Perseids, which have been active since mid-July and are forecast to continue until the end of August, at the latest. They reach their peak Aug. 11 to 12, or Sunday night into Monday morning.
To get a hint at when to watch, you can use a meter that relies on data from the Global Meteor Network showing when real-time fireball activity levels increase in the coming days.
A favorite among skywatchers, the Perseids are one of the strongest shows each year, with as many as 100 long, colorful streaks an hour. It reaches its peak as two other showers, the Alpha Capricornids and the Southern Delta Aquarids — which both peaked at the end of July — are petering out.
The Perseids are best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere, just before dawn. This year, viewers may have to compete with light from the moon, which will be nearly half full on the night that the shower peaks. But according to Sky & Telescope , the moon will set before midnight, leaving the early morning hours sufficiently dark for a spectacular show.
Where meteor showers come from
There is a chance you might see a meteor on any given night, but you are most likely to catch one during a shower. Meteor showers are caused by Earth passing through the rubble trailing a comet or asteroid as it swings around the sun. This debris, which can be as small as a grain of sand, leaves behind a glowing stream of light as it burns up in Earth’s atmosphere.
Meteor showers occur around the same time every year and can last for days or weeks. But there is only a small window when each shower is at its peak, which happens when Earth reaches the densest part of the cosmic debris. The peak is the best time to look for a shower. From our point of view on Earth, the meteors will appear to come from the same point in the sky.
Bright, speedy fireballs from the Perseids will originate from the constellation Perseus, in the northern part of the sky. This makes them easy to distinguish from the Alpha Capricornids, which are bright but slow, and the fast, faint streaks of the Southern Delta Aquarids, both of which come from constellations in the southern sky.
Subscribe to the Times Space and Astronomy Calendar for reminders about meteor showers throughout the year.
How to watch a meteor shower
Michelle Nichols, the director of public observing at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago, recommends forgoing the use of telescopes or binoculars while watching a meteor shower.
“You just need your eyes and, ideally, a dark sky,” she said.
That’s because meteors can shoot across large swaths of the sky, so observing equipment can limit your field of view.
Some showers are strong enough to produce up to 100 streaks an hour, according to the American Meteor Society , though you likely won’t see that many.
“Almost everybody is under a light polluted sky,” Ms. Nichols said. “You may think you’re under a dark sky, but in reality, even in a small town, you can have bright lights nearby.”
Planetariums, local astronomy clubs or even maps like this one can help you figure out where to get away from excessive light. The best conditions for catching a meteor shower are a clear sky with no moon or cloud cover, at sometime between midnight and sunrise. (Moonlight affects visibility in the same way as light pollution, washing out fainter sources of light in the sky.) Make sure to give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to seeing in the dark.
Ms. Nichols also recommends wearing layers, even during the summer. “You’re going to be sitting there for quite a while, watching,” she said. “It’s going to get chilly, even in August.”
Bring a cup of cocoa or tea for even more warmth. Then lie back, scan the sky and enjoy the show.
Katrina Miller is a science reporter for The Times based in Chicago. She earned a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller
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Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event that’s out of this world with our space and astronomy calendar .
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'A full circle': Ex-Waratahs coach Darren Coleman lands new gig in the Shute Shield
Former NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman has landed a new job as the director of rugby for Shute Shield club Hunter Wildfires.
Coleman coached the Waratahs for three seasons and NSW made the quarter-finals in the first two years of his reign.
But the wheels fell off in 2024 as the Waratahs finished with the wooden spoon and Coleman's contract was not extended.
Watch the 2024 Shute Shield with every match streaming ad free, live and on demand on the home of rugby, Stan Sport
Waratahs coach Darren Coleman interacts with fans. Getty
Coleman will link with younger brother Scott - the Wildfires head coach - as the ambitious Newcastle club looks to topple the Sydney establishment.
"Being from a small country town, (South West Rocks), the Wildfires was my first serious rugby club way back in 1995 and I remember the opportunities as a 21-year-old the club afforded me to play against Super Rugby and international players from here in Newcastle," Coleman said.
"It set me up for 25-plus years of professional involvement in the sport. I started here so it's now a full circle and is great to be back... the base has been set by these guys' hard work and I look forward to assisting in taking it to the next level."
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Waratahs coach Darren Coleman at Allianz Stadium. Getty
The Wildfires finished 10th of 12 teams this season with a 5-13 record.
"Aspirational Newcastle and country players don't have to go to Sydney to be in a high performance program that can lead them into professional rugby," Coleman said.
"And aside from providing the Hunter with a winning rugby team, we will be aiming to produce many professional rugby players through our program.
Jake Gordon and Darren Coleman of the Waratahs at the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific launch. Getty
Wildfires president Brett Sutherland was thrilled to land Coleman.
"This is a very significant appointment for the Wildfires and it shows a real belief from Darren about the program," Sutherland said.
"We feel Darren can have a broad impact across the region and one of his first comments after accepting the role was about getting straight to work and developing relationships with all of the Hunter rugby community.
"The Wildfires are guaranteed another three years in the Shute Shield and it's exciting to have Darren in charge."
The first round of the Shute Shield finals this weekend sees Easts host Manly, Randwick host Gordon and Warringah host Norths - with all games live on Stan Sport.
Randwick are the defending champions.
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Kiama & Jamberoo. Salty air, sunshine, surf and long stretches of sand - Kiama epitomises everything great about the NSW South Coast. Life here revolves around the water, whether you're trekking coastal cliffs on the lookout for dolphins and whales (May through November), tackling waves on a surfboard, enjoying a dip in calm ocean pools, or watching the sea rush high into the sky at one of ...
Photography: Destination NSW. Where to stay: Discovery Parks Narooma has lovely cabins that sleep up to six, each with their own parking space. See also: 28 unforgettable road trips in NSW. 20 top foodie stops on a NSW roadtrip. 10 best national parks for camping in NSW.
The 19 Best Sydney Weekend Getaways 1. Seal Rocks - one of NSW's best beach breaks. Best for: Beaches, whale watching, tranquility Distance from Sydney: 280km - 3 hours 15 by car . Beaches . Seal Rocks is the kind of place people come back to year after year, drawn in by the spectacular beaches and laid back vibe.
Lake Macquarie. Travel. getaways. Photograph: Supplied. While you may only know Lake Macquarie for its expansive body of water, this unassuming region sandwiched between Sydney and Newcastle has a ...
Uncover the top places to visit in NSW! Explore beautiful destinations, things to do, attractions, restaurants and more. Plan a NSW weekend getaway. ... There are many stunning NSW destinations. Whether weekend getaways, family holidays or adventure holidays, you'll find plenty of points of interest and amazing attractions.
8. Kiama. Sydney CBD to Kiama distance: 141km (1 hours 45 minutes by car or 2 hours 20 minutes by train) If a combination of fantastic beaches and rolling green hills are your sort of thing, Kiama, about half an hour south of Wollongong, is one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney.
ellaslist has dubbed the Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains one of our all-time favourite weekend getaways in NSW. Not only that, it is fantastic value and only 90 minutes from Sydney! Fairmont Resort does family luxury in style from the get-go in the foyer. Kids will be in awe of the high ceilings, crisp air and sprawling grounds.
5. Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie. Port Macquarie is another popular coastal town on NSW's Mid North Coast, located at the mouth of the Hastings River, approximately 390 km north of Sydney. It has been one of the most popular Sydney weekend getaway destinations for many years.
Read on to find the best long weekend escapes in NSW. Short breaks from Sydney within two hours. 1. Royal National Park. Image: Shutterstock. One of the oldest national parks in the world and Australia's first is just an hour's drive from Sydney. ... Weekend getaways further away from Sydney 10. Hyams Beach.
To be honest, most of the best weekend getaways from Sydney are located just 1h30m or up to 2 hours from the city. This means you can take the whole family on a beautiful holiday from Sydney without having to spend the whole weekend driving. 6. Blue Mountains. Distance from Sydney: 1h30m // Blue Mountains.
Distance from Sydney: 170kms. Driving time: 2 hours 10 minutes. Public Transport rating: not recommended - train to Cessnock, but need to join a local tour to see the vineyards. Best time to visit: Spring is the prettiest time in the Hunter Valley. Summer harvest is also a great time to visit, but it can be warm.
Blue Mountains. Cleverly designed by Peter Stutchbury, the award-winning Invisible House in rural Ganbenang, about 30 kilometres from Blackheath in NSW's Blue Mountains, offers the undeniable appeal of fresh air, open skies and sweeping vistas in spacious luxury. But it's also an enticing family getaway, sleeping up to eight in four ...
Blue Mountains. Known for: Spectacular views & beautiful walks. Best time to visit: Spring to Autumn. How far from Sydney: 1.5-hour drive. The Blue Mountains make for the perfect weekend getaway where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney and enjoy majestic mountain views.
Located 3 hours south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is an excellent destination for a weekend away in NSW. Nestled between 2 national parks, Booderee and Jervis Bay, the area is home to fantastic hikes, famous beaches and cute little towns where you can relax. The most popular thing to do in Jervis Bay is visiting Hyams Beach.
Luxury weekend getaways in NSW. If you want to enjoy a luxurious holiday in New South Wales, you'll have plenty of choices. Luxury accommodation with fine furnishings, decadent amenities and unique features are available throughout the state, and you can enjoy high-end restaurants and shopping, spa retreats and other indulgent experiences.
588 Dean St, Albury; (02) 6082 9476; circahotels.com. Circa 1928 in Albury. THE LOCATION Albury's former Commonwealth Bank, built in 1928, is now home to a spa and two luxury suites, 3½ hours ...
The Port Stephens Broughton Island Cruise Tour brings the squad to see the local rays while sharing a meal onboard or ashore. Book Port Stephens Broughton Island Cruise Tour. 6. Central Coast. If you're not keen on long road trips, the Central Coast offers an escape from the city just an hour away from Sydney.
Located on New South Wales north coast, Coffs Harbour is a beach town that's ideal for a weekend getaway. It's approximately five-and-a-half-hours from Sydney, or you can fly into the local airport. If interested in extending your trip, you can drive the scenic Waterfall Way drive to Armidale in about four hours.
5. The New South Wales Central Coast. Waves crashing at Avoca Beach. The New South Wales Central Coast is a picturesque playground right on Sydney's doorstep. Only an hour's drive from the city, this beach-rimmed stretch of coastline is one of the best short getaways from Sydney. The main hub is Gosford.
A trip to Basque country: Spicers Tower Lodge . A fusion to fan romantic flames, Spicers Tower Lodge in pretty Pokolbin is part hot-blooded Basque culture, part Pamplona-themed hacienda and part luxury villa, all set in one of Australia's finest wine regions, the Hunter Valley.White walls, water features, terracotta stairs, Art Deco stonework and a restaurant inspired by Spanish pintxo bars ...
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours. Where to Stay: Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages. Located around three hours north of Sydney, Seal Rocks is one of the best romantic weekend escapes from Sydney. With its pristine white sand beaches, Seal Rocks is a dream destination for couples looking to spend time relaxing on isolated beaches.
Up the northern coast of NSW and within driving distance for an easy weekend trip from Sydney, you'll find sun, surf and seafood at the Quality Inn City Centre.Flanked by blue waters, pristine beaches and vibrant green forests, the town of Coffs Harbour makes a quaint, marine-based weekend getaway destination for couples and groups alike.
Blue Mountains 2 Night Weekend Escape with Breakfast - For 2. Blue Mountains, NSW. ★★★★★ ★★★★★ 4.3 (17) 2 Nights. $738. Exclusive. Romantic Getaway with Massages and Brekkie Hamper - Weekend. Hunter Valley, NSW.
The analysis, from data published in more than 300 NSW public schools' annual reports, reveals those achieving strong results across their entire student cohort, not just on band 6 results.
Warm summer nights and swift colorful streaks make this meteor shower a crowd favorite, but this year, observers may have to compete with light from the moon.
Former NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman has landed a new job as the director of rugby for Shute Shield club Hunter Wildfires.. Coleman coached the Waratahs for three seasons and NSW made the quarter-finals in the first two years of his reign. But the wheels fell off in 2024 as the Waratahs finished with the wooden spoon and Coleman's contract was not extended.
Punters abandoned this year's uninspiring Vivid festival in droves, with the annual light show recording its lowest attendance since before the Covid-19 pandemic.