places to visit in nsw in september

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14 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in New South Wales (NSW)

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021

New South Wales (NSW) is the oldest state in Australia and one of its most diverse. Sydney shines as the state capital, with famous tourist attractions like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as top-notch restaurants, galleries, and museums. Venture beyond this beautiful harbor city, and you'll find a state full of surprises, with six of Australia's World Heritage Areas.

Topographically, New South Wales reflects the diverse landscapes of the country as a whole. The Great Dividing Range cuts through the center of the state, carving it into an eastern coastal strip, rimmed by dazzling beaches, while the stark desert beauty of the Outback sprawls to the west.

Exploring New South Wales is easy, and you'll find plenty of rewarding things to do. Climb or ski the rugged peaks of the Snowy Mountains, hunt for opals in red-earthed Outback towns, hike through World Heritage-listed rainforests, dive the coral reefs of Lord Howe island, and step back in time at Norfolk Island's World Heritage historic sites.

Learn more about this dynamic state with our list of the top attractions and best places to visit in New South Wales.

2. The Blue Mountains

3. lord howe island, 4. byron bay, 5. the south coast's beaches, 6. the hunter valley, 7. coffs harbour, 8. norfolk island, 9. port stephens, 10. the snowy mountains, 11. kangaroo valley, 12. outback nsw, 13. armidale, 14. canberra, map of attractions & places to visit in new south wales (nsw).

Sydney, the capital of NSW, is one of the world's most alluring cities. Graced by the iconic Sydney Opera House and harbor bridge, the sparkling blue harbor is the city's crown jewel. Hop aboard a ferry or harbor cruise to really appreciate these top Sydney attractions and the city's stunning waterfront location.

In addition to world-class restaurants, festivals, galleries, and museums, you'll find plenty of things to do in Sydney . Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the historic Rocks area; wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens ; or climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can also explore the shops, restaurants, and tourist sites at Darling Harbor , one of the top New South Wales attractions for families.

Sydney is known for its excellent beaches . You can bask on famous Bondi Beach , learn to surf at Manly, or paddle the calm waters at Balmoral.

You'll also find plenty of attractions near Sydney. Stretching northwest from the city, the picturesque Hawkesbury River and surrounding national parks are great day trip destinations, with excellent opportunities for bushwalking, birding, and boating.

The Blue Mountains are one of the most scenic places to visit in New South Wales. For more than a hundred years, this region has been a favorite getaway for nature lovers.

About 65 kilometers west of the city, the mountains rise steeply out of the coastal plain, combining magnificent gorges, waterfalls, rock formations, and sacred Aboriginal sites with excellent tourist facilities. Named for the blue haze created by the many eucalyptus trees, the region forms one of the state's magnificent World Heritage Sites .

Popular things to do in the Blue Mountains include hiking, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, and photographing the spectacular beauty. Save time to see all the top attractions. Highlights include Wentworth Falls , the towering sandstone rock formations called the Three Sisters , and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah .

At Jenolan Caves , the world's oldest known open cave system, you can view glittering stalactites and stalagmites. The Blue Mountains also host some of Australia's best hiking trails .

Wondering about the best way to see some of the top natural attractions with limited time? Sign up for the adventures offered by Scenic World. These include a Skyway, cableway, an elevated walkway, and one of the world's steepest railways. Better still, book a combination of these adventures to see the park from different perspectives.

Blue Mountains National Park is one of the top places to visit near Sydney by car, but you can also catch a train or join a guided day trip tour.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in the Blue Mountains

World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is a haven for serenity-seekers and nature lovers. Surrounded by the world's most southerly coral reef , this spectacular island, about 660 kilometers off the New South Wales north coast, only allows a maximum of 400 guests at a time.

Lord Howe encompasses a number of islets, which are part of a former volcano. Dramatic cliffs rise along the rugged coast, and other island highlights include white-sand beaches, pristine native forests of pandanus and kentia palms, and spectacular views from atop 875-meter-high Mt. Gower .

Almost two-thirds of Lord Howe is protected, and the island is home to a diversity of flora and fauna. Birding is excellent, with more than 130 permanent and migratory species. Offshore, the Lord Howe Island Marine Park protects coral reefs, and offers superb diving and snorkeling.

Other popular things to do on Lord Howe Island include fishing, surfing, kayaking, and hiking along the many walking trails. Bikes are the best way to explore the island - they are also the island's main mode of transport.

Looking to disconnect from the stress of daily life? You're in luck. You won't find any cell phone reception here, which helps to preserve the peaceful ambience.

Lord Howe Island lies less than a two-hour-flight away from Sydney or Brisbane, and although it's not technically a tropical island, it still ranks as one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific .

On the north coast, Byron Bay is a hot spot for surfers and New Age nature buffs. A wide stretch of golden beach fronts the ocean here, and a lovely hike along the Cape Byron Track leads to the most easterly point on the Australian continent and its famous lighthouse. Dolphins and whales frolic in the waters, and water sports abound.

In the hinterland, you can explore World Heritage-listed Wollumbin National Park (formerly Mount Warning National Park) with tranquil rainforests and waterfalls. Byron is also known for its colorful markets, as well as its health and yoga retreats, spa resorts, and luxury boutique hotels.

Lately, celebrity spotting has become a favorite pastime. Chris Hemsworth is a famous resident, and several other high profile Hollywood stars have spent time here between movie shoots.

To soak up the soul of old Byron Bay, venture about an hour inland to the tiny town of Nimbin , a hippie hub and hotbed for counterculture and alternative lifestyles.

If you love beaches, bucolic landscapes, and charming small towns, you'll love the South Coast of New South Wales. Stretching from the southern fringe of Sydney to the Victorian border, this region is home to some of the state's most beautiful white-sand beaches set against the dark summits of the Great Dividing Range . Rolling green hills, lakes, inlets, and forests fringe the coast, and the climate is mild throughout the year.

Strung along the coast are a series of small holiday resorts. Many offer fantastic opportunities for water sports from their beaches, including swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and surfing. Kiama is home to the world's largest blowhole , and Jervis Bay is a standout with its radiant powder-soft sands. Nearby, the dazzling Hyams Beach, reputedly with the world's whitest sand, is one of Australia's best beaches . Batemans Bay is also home to alluring shores, as well as the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail.

If you're looking for some of the most beautiful hidden places in New South Wales, you'll find them along the South Coast. Merimbula and its sister village Pambula on the Sapphire Coast are hidden gems, with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and fantastic opportunities for water sports.

One of the most southerly places on the coast is the old fishing village of Eden , once a prosperous whaling station. North and south of town lies the Ben Boyd National Park with magnificent views of reddish sandstone cliffs from Boyd's Tower, a former lighthouse.

The picturesque Hunter Valley, about a two-hour drive north of Sydney, is one of Australia's most famous grape-growing regions. It's also a popular weekend escape from Sydney - especially for foodies, who come here for the delicious farm-fresh produce, cooking schools, and gourmet restaurants with chef's tasting menus.

Highlights of the Hunter Valley region include the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens , several excellent art galleries, and vast stretches of unspoiled bushland.

At World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, you can hike through ancient rain forest and see impressive waterfalls and a diversity of wildlife.

Also in the region, Wollemi National Park is one of the largest national parks in New South Wales. It's home to the famous Wollemi pine and offers excellent bushwalking, rock climbing, and canoeing.

Newcastle is one of the largest towns in the region, and it's a great place to visit if you want an urban buzz after your country getaway. It's one of the biggest New South Wales' cities after Sydney, with museums, galleries, excellent cafés and restaurants, and a lively entertainment scene. Save time to stroll along the Bathers Way coastal walk while you're here. It's one of Newcastle's most popular attractions.

Accommodations in the Hunter region range from luxury spa resorts and boutique hotels to rustic cabins.

Blessed with beautiful beaches and a mild, subtropical climate, Coffs Harbour is a favorite holiday destination for families. The town is famous for its Big Banana , an homage to the local banana-growing industry, with interesting displays, sweet banana-inspired treats, and kid-friendly attractions.

Favorite Coffs Harbour activities revolve mostly around the water. Along the coast, you can bask on uncrowded beaches, fish, surf, dive, kayak, and visit the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve .

About 50 kilometers west of Coffs Harbour, nature lovers can explore the rainforest and waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park, a World Heritage Area. To the north lies a string of pretty beaches (Emerald Beach is a favorite), and the town of Grafton . Famous for its jacaranda trees, Grafton has six large national parks within easy reach, including the World Heritage Areas of Gibraltar Range National Park (Glen Innes) and Washpool National Park .

Once a brutal convict colony, Norfolk Island is now a charming holiday resort with World Heritage-listed historic sites . Although the island is an external territory, it remains part of the Commonwealth of Australia and is home to the Pitcairn Island descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers.

Today, you can tour ruins of the old settlements and learn about the island's Polynesian heritage and colonial past at its excellent museums. A third of this emerald island consists of national parks and reserves, with scenic hiking and biking trails, excellent birding, and sweeping green landscapes dotted with native Norfolk Island pines.

Water sports are a highlight. Diving, swimming, and snorkeling are all popular things to do on Norfolk Island, and beach lovers will find a few secluded coves carved into the rugged and rocky coast. Coral reefs lie offshore, and the fishing is superb in these remote waters.

One of the most unusual places to visit in New South Wales, Norfolk Island is about a 2.5-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane.

About an hour's drive north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is a large and beautiful blue-water bay enclosed by two volcanic headlands. Natural bushland fringes many of the 26 white-sand beaches here, and whales and dolphins are often spotted in the bay.

Despite the many vacationers who come here in the summer, you can still find a quiet stretch of beach. This is also one of the top fishing destinations in Australia, especially for big game fishing. Other popular water sports include swimming, surfing, kayaking, and boating.

To see panoramic views of the Port Stephens coastline, take the Tomaree Head summit walk. Another popular activity here is quad biking or sledding on the Southern Hemisphere's largest sand dunes.

The main holiday resorts are Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, but you can also stay at Soldiers Point, Fingal Bay, and Lemon Tree Passage. Nearby, Myall Lakes National Park encompasses one of the state's largest lake systems and is another great destination for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

Forming part of the Great Dividing Range , the Snowy Mountains are home to the continent's highest mountains, including 2,228-meter Mount Kosciuszko , Australia's highest peak.

One of the top attractions in the Snowy Mountains is Kosciuszko National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a popular recreational area year-round. Snowy winters lure skiers, and in the summer, the easily accessible alpine terrain of snow gum forests and glacial lakes attracts hordes of bush walkers, climbers, anglers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Wondering where to stay in the Snowy Mountains? Famous for its excellent trout fishing, Jindabyne is a great base for alpine adventures.

The Snowy Mountains are also home to some of Australia's best ski resorts . Perisher Blue Ski Resort incorporates the popular Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega, and Mount Blue Cow. Thredbo Village, at the foot of the Crackenback Range, boasts a year-round chair lift. Near the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Charlotte Pass is a great base for ski tours to the highest peaks in the Australian Alps.

With all these snowcapped peaks, it's not surprising the Snowy Mountains are one of the most popular places to visit in New South Wales in winter.

Gorgeously green, the Kangaroo Valley is a quintessential Aussie country town. Surrounded by lushly cloaked escarpments and rolling pastures, it lies about a two-hour drive southwest of Sydney in the scenic Shoalhaven Region.

Perhaps the town's most distinctive landmark is the handsome, historic Hampden Bridge spanning the Kangaroo River, Australia's only remaining wooden suspension bridge. Driving across its single-lane between the soaring sandstone pillars sets the tone for a relaxed visit here, encouraging visitors to slow down and smile at passing drivers.

You'll find plenty of things to do in the picturesque Kangaroo Valley. Horseback riding, hiking, golfing, kayaking along the rivers and creeks, and absorbing some local history at the Pioneer Village Museum are all popular activities.

Nature is also a highlight. Don't miss the impressive Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park, and while you're in the valley, keep an eye out for the namesake marsupials, as well as wallabies, especially at Tallowa Dam , where you can also kayak and fish. Beautiful Bendeela Camping and Picnic area is one of the best spots to see wombats in the wild .

The Kangaroo Valley is also earning a reputation as a foodie destination, with its abundance of fresh produce, cute tea rooms, and farmers market. Try to squeeze in a cooking class , and don't miss the fresh-baked pies at Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop in Barrengarry Old Store .

Outback New South Wales is a land of sacred Aboriginal sites, harsh deserts, and haunting beauty. Mungo National Park in the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area holds records of Aboriginal life dating back some 40,000 to 60,000 years.

At Warrumbungle National Park , in the zone of transition between the arid areas to the west and the rainy east, spectacular rock buttresses and domes are the result of volcanic activity. Snow gums crown the surrounding hills, and deep spring-fed gorges lie in the valleys. You can explore this park on an excellent network of hiking trails and see colorful displays of wildflowers in the spring.

In addition to exploring the rugged national parks, the country towns in the Outback are some of the most unique places in New South Wales, with plenty of unusual things to do. You can hunt for opals at the mining towns of White Cliffs and Lightning Ridge, visit the Living Desert Sculptures of Broken Hill , and ride a bike around Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo.

In the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, the elegant university town of Armidale is a city of four seasons. Just shy of 1,000 meters in altitude, it's the state's highest town, with relatively mild summers, riotous spring blooms, fiery fall foliage, and even a sprinkling of snow during winter.

Highlights of a visit here include heritage tours of the town's lovely old buildings, which were funded by the region's rich agricultural wealth, as well as visiting the excellent galleries, gardens, and museums. Saints Mary & Joseph Catholic Cathedral is a famous landmark, and the University of New England adds a youthful buzz to this stately town.

Pristine wilderness areas surround the city, with attractions for families and nature lovers, as well as plenty of outdoor adventures on tap. Trout fishing, mountain biking, canyoning, hiking, and bird-watching are just some of the popular things to do.

If you're driving to Armidale, don't miss Waterfall Way. This 185-kilometer scenic drive connects the coastal town of Coffs Harbour with Armidale, revealing beautiful scenery around almost every bend, from river-carved valleys and World Heritage-listed rainforest to picturesque cascades. Ebor Falls is a highlight.

The road also passes through five national parks, including Dorrigo National Park ; the Wollomombi Gorge and Falls, with one of Australia's highest waterfalls; and New England and Oxley Wild Rivers national parks .

Brimming with cultural treasures, the Australian capital city of Canberra lies about 280 kilometers southwest of Sydney. It's technically in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) a 2,400-square-kilometer self-governing federal district, rather than the state of New South Wales, but it is entirely surrounded by New South Wales and is an easy weekend getaway from Sydney.

Besides the city's excellent museums and memorials, it's also known for its fun family-friendly festivals - in particular, the Floriade festival, usually held in September to October, which celebrates the city's many spring blooms.

Canberra was carefully planned. Its streets are laid out on a generous scale, with many of them flanked by colorful flower gardens and thousands of trees with glorious autumn colors. A central feature is sparkling Lake Burley Griffin , a long artificial lake surrounded by parks, picnic areas, a walking trail, and many of Canberra's top attractions .

Canberra's principal buildings lie within the Parliamentary Triangle and include the National Gallery of Australia, with three levels of exhibitions and a sculpture garden; the National Library of Australia ; Old Parliament House , now a museum depicting the story of Australian democracy; and New Parliament House .

Don't miss the poignant Australian War Memorial , and make sure you save time to stroll around the impressive collection of native plants at the Australian National Botanic Gardens .

More on Australia

Things to do in New South Wales in September

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September is a good time to visit New South Wales .

New South Wales has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your September trip to New South Wales. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to September. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in New South Wales in September

Top experiences in september, holidays in new south wales in september.

There are no holidays in New South Wales in September

Other notable holidays

• New South Wales Bank Holiday ( August 5 )
• Labour Day ( October 7 )
• Remembrance Day ( November 11 )
• Christmas Eve ( December 24 )

Best attractions for New South Wales in September

What's the weather like in New South Wales?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in New South Wales for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in New South Wales in January
• Weather in New South Wales in February
• Weather in New South Wales in March
• Weather in New South Wales in April
• Weather in New South Wales in May
• Weather in New South Wales in June
• Weather in New South Wales in July
• Weather in New South Wales in August
• Weather in New South Wales in September
• Weather in New South Wales in October
• Weather in New South Wales in November
• Weather in New South Wales in December

Explore nearby places

• New South Wales
• Lake Cargelligo
• Gulargambone
• Rankins Springs
• West Wyalong

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New South Wales throughout the year

• New South Wales in January
• New South Wales in February
• New South Wales in March
• New South Wales in April
• New South Wales in May
• New South Wales in June
• New South Wales in July
• New South Wales in August
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9 Captivating Autumn Towns To Visit In NSW 

Autumn promises a visual feast like no other. Plan your next road trip around leaf-peeping season as the temperatures begin to drop at these lovely autumn destinations in NSW.

Crisp autumn days are here and it’s the ideal time to plan an autumnal getaway. Wondering where you can see autumn at its most colourful in NSW ? You’re in the right place. Red maple leaves, lush greens and burnt oranges are set to take over town and you can immerse yourself in the season of change and experience these vibrant hues very soon. Embrace this magical season and head out on a road trip across NSW’s many diverse autumn towns .

The clue is in the name folks. Orange scores hordes of travellers from around NSW all year but it’s simply delightful during autumn . The small country town is less than four hours’ drive northwest of Sydney and comes alive with rich red and burnt yellow colours this time of the year. Orange is also well-regarded for its vibrant food scene and boutique shops so there’s plenty of reason to venture out of town and while away an autumn weekend here. See what’s on in Orange here .

2. Mount Wilson

This rugged World Heritage site presents plenty of possibilities for an escape all year round. If you get lucky, you can see snow in the Blue Mountains during winter and see some lovely blooming flowers during spring . In autumn, the village of Mount Wilson is coated with colour along the tree-lined corners of Nooroo Garden, Windyridge Garden and of course, the famous Breenhold Garden . The gardens are usually open in autumn and spring and you can get there a short 90-minute drive from Sydney.

3. Bathurst

You don’t have to head out of the city to see autumn colours when you can just go to Bathurst and enjoy all its world-class offerings while also soaking up autumnal hues. Bathurst is a photographer’s dream during autumn with a cacophony of colors and views for days. Time your visit to coincide with the Autumn Colours Heritage Festival which celebrates the city’s rich history during its most photogenic season. It’s peak tourism season for the city so expect crowds; read all about it here .

4. Tenterfield

Autumn foliage well and truly explodes in this part of NSW situated in the region of New England near the intersection of Bruxner Highway and New England Highway. Although a closer drive from Brisbane (3.5 hours) than Sydney (8 hours), we think the pristine landscapes are worth the effort. The autumn landscape is defined by long winding tree-lined streets and scenic parks and gardens. So lovely is this part of the year that they host a special Tenterfield Autumn Festival over the Easter long weekend to celebrate it. Read more about autumn in Tenterfield and things to do here .

The quaint town of Batlow is hidden between Tumut and Tumbarumba in the Snowy Valleys and it’s an underrated gem when it comes to leaf peeping season. The autumn foliage around town is pure eye candy with every colour imaginable. They also host a community festival called Batlow Cidefest during autumn showcasing local craft brews and cold climate wines along with market stalls, food and live entertainment. Batlow is also home to one of Australia’s iconic “big things” the Big Apple which is a good enough reason to plan a trip. It is a 5-hour drive from Sydney and Melbourne and a 2-hour and 30-minute drive from Canberra. Alternatively, you can fly into Wagga Wagga and then drive down to Batlow.

6. Armidale

Arguably one of the best places to experience autumn, the city of Armidale transforms into a stunning tapestry of colourful foliage every year. They even host their own Autumn Festival showcasing local talent and all the lovely autumnal colours around town. If you’re planning to visit, you can get the most bang for your buck by getting here via the Waterfall Way drive passing rainforests, national parks and some seriously gorgeous waterfalls like the Instagrammable Dangar Falls and the Crystal Shower Falls that you can walk behind.

Bowral is a great place to visit all year long but it’s especially delightful during autumn and winter. Australia’s first booktown is also a prime destination to see the leaves change colour. The town reflects an old-world charm with markets, boutique shops , many quaint bookshops and gardens that are awash in a vivid tapestry of colours during autumn. Take a walk through the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens and Corbett Gardens to see the leaves or plan your trip around the Bowral Autumn Festival. Bowral is located a short hour and a half drive from Sydney.

8. Sutton Forest

One of the most historic NSW settlements , the quiet village of Sutton Forest in the Southern Highlands is home to some lovely English-style gardens, boutique hotels, estates and country retreats with sprawling grasslands and vivid colours. Sutton Forest is only a 90-minute drive from Sydney and Canberra and the perfect place for a tranquil long weekend autumn escape . Read more about this tranquil village here .

If you’re looking for a tranquil village not yet tainted by social media, consider Glencoe . The small farming village in the Northern Tablelands near Glen Innes presents one of NSW’s most scenic autumn drives with trees vibrant with seasonal colour, cooler temps and picturesque vistas. Glencoe is home to the popular Red Lion Tavern , an old English-style pub which has been serving locals and travellers passing by for over a century. Read more about it here .

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Whats on in Sydney in September

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Sydney.com is the official tourism site for Destination NSW. © Copyright 2024 Destination NSW. All rights reserved

The definitive guide to visiting Sydney in September

Things to do in Sydney Sydney Travel Guide Best time to visit Sydney Sydney In September

With great feats of engineering, love for art, wonderful hospitality, exotic cuisines, and a culture that makes you want to go gala all day, Sydney is a city that has so much for you to experience. Known as ‘The Emerald City', Sydney is the global vacation destination to explore right from the sandy beaches to sunny harbors, botanical gardens to parks, and major adrenaline spiking activities.

Septembers in Sydney experience springtime, when the city’s botanical gardens and natural pathways come to light as the weather transitions from cool to warm and is a great time to plan the ultimate vacation.

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

What makes sydney in september special, sydney in september : weather.

• Sydney in September : Top Experiences

Sydney in September : Events to Look Out For

Sydney in september : essentials, sydney in september : seasonal delicacies, tips for visiting sydney in september.

Situated on Australia’s east coast, Sydney is a city with a lot of beaches, serene parks, and an array of outdoor adventure activities to indulge into. This dynamic city is a blend of different cultures and places and is easily one of the most visited cities by tourists.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Sydney during September as it gears up to host numerous concerts, festivities, and adventure-filled activities like skydiving, surfing, etc. to make your trip a fun one. During this time, the flowers can be seen blooming in the Royal Botanical Gardens and parks, making it the perfect time to visit and stroll through a peaceful and green habitat.

With so much to do, you may be dazzled with where to start from. Here, we bring to you a perfect itinerary on what to see, where to stay, everything to help you plan your trip with safety measures in place to ensure you have a great stay.

The weather in Sydney is usually subtropical with mild, sunny weather throughout the year. September is the beginning of spring in Sydney, so there can be an increase in temperatures and sunshine, which makes it pleasant for sightseeing activities. The average daytime temperature in September is around 16°C and can hit a peak of 20°C on warmer days.

Sydney in September: Top Experiences

Irukandji tawny nurse shark encounter.

Experience walking on the sandy beaches of the lagoons and get a chance to interact with various sea animals. Have an up-close time and indulge in knowing the different species of aquatic animals in this private experience. The highlight is the 20-minute encounter with the biggest shark in the aquarium, the tawny nurse shark. This is followed by a relaxing cruise around the tropical aquarium.

September Timings Open all days of the week, 9 AM to 5 PM

2 Jessie Rd, Anna Bay NSW 2316,Sydney Australia Getting There ›

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Meet your favorite stars at the Madame Tussauds Sydney Museum . The space consists of 8 sections filled with realistic wax figures of well-known celebrities. These sections have the Justice League, Marvel, Film & TV, MTV Music, Party, Sports, Fashion, History, and World Leaders. Take a picture with the wax figure of Jackie Chain or Wolverine or stand next to Angelina Jolie at a party this September.

September Timings Open on all days, from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Aquarium Wharf, 1-5 Wheat Rd, NSW 2000, Sydney Getting There ›

Australian National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum portrays stories of naval wars, talks about the modern beach culture, ancient saltwater traditions, and aquatic sporting achievements. You get an insight into the lives of sailors aboard a naval warship as well as a submarine. Walk through the galleries and learn about sailing, surfing, naval defence forces, and much more.

September Timings Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM

Darling Harbour, (the Pyrmont side) at 2 Murray St, Sydney Australia Getting There ›

Sydney Opera House Show

Enjoy an evening filled with iconic opera hits by some of the country’s finest singers. The 90-minute show brings to you some of the best opera hits and enjoys the works of art from Puccini, Bizet, Versi, and Rossini, sung with a piano accompaniment. Here is a good introduction to the world of opera and admire the infrastructure of the Sydney Opera house show.

September Timings Daily 9 AM to 5 PM

Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Getting There ›

Skydive Sydney

For adventure seekers, skydiving in Sydney is one of the most exhilarating experiences. Jump from a height of 15000 ft. and freefall as you take in the stunning city views around you. There are three amazing skydiving locations available in Sydney – Wollongong , Newcastle and Hunter Valley . Visitors can choose to just experience skydiving or get their videos and photos taken during skydiving too.

September Timings Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Sydney NSW, Australia Getting There ›

Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains

Escape from the city for a full-day tour to the Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves . You can experience the breathtaking highlights of Blue Mountains National Park, including the Three Sisters pinnacles at Echo Point, and also oversee the beautiful rainforests and valleys. You will also explore the Jenolan Caves on this tour, the world’s oldest and deepest caves with underground rivers.

New South Wales 2787, Australia Getting There ›

SEA Life Sydney Aquarium

Indulge into the fascinating world of marine life by visiting Australia’s vast SEA Life Aquarium . You will see diverse species of aquatic creatures such as penguins, platypuses, sharks amongst 13,000 other animals from various species distributed over 14 themed zones.

September Timings Daily 10 AM to 4 PM

1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Getting There ›

Take a Day Trip From Sydney to Hunter Valley

This September, escape into a wine country, with top-class wineries, delicious local produce, luxurious hideaways await. Take a trip from Sydney to Hunter Valley , merely two hours long, to a magnificent beauty where you can discover all about the wine-making process while walking through the famous vineyards. You get a chance to get your palette exposed to award-winning wine tastings and sample locally-made cheese cubes. If this doesn't sound like something you'd like to do, there are still plenty of day drips from Sydney to choose from!

Region of New South Wales, Australia Getting There ›

Sydney Tower Eye

The Sydney Tower Eye allows you to see a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. It is at a point of 820 feet above the ground from where you can spot some of the famous local landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, the Blue Mountains, to name a few. It has a touchscreen which allows you to get an interactive introduction and see everything up close with the high-powered binoculars.

September Timings Daily 10 AM to 6 PM

100 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Getting There ›

Taronga Zoo

When in Sydney, do something quirky and explore the wild side of the city. Head to Australia’s most premier zoo and get astonished by its fauna and get to witness more than 350 varieties of species of animals at the Taronga Zoo . You can learn all about the lives of the animals residing and experience the world from their eyes.

September Timings Daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia Getting There ›

Kings Cross Comedy Club

22 September 2023 (Weekly Event) Jam-packed with only the best ones in live comedy, here is a team set built by the award winning team at the Happy Endings Comedy Club. This is set on the 3rd level of the Kings cross hotel, which has a styled bar, themed rooms, bordello lounge harks and so much more.

Campbelltown ParkRun

Every Saturday This is a very popular free weekly 5 km sports event, where the run is timed. On registering online, you will receive a slot for your run. Parkrun is for all levels of fitness, where everyone can run at their own pace, some for fitness, to beat their record or for their own enjoyment.

Sydney Fringe Festival

1 - 30 September, 2023 The Sydney Fringe Festival is one of the largest independent arts festivals in the city. This event is spread across five cultural villages, with 300 productions in over 50 venues every September. The event is a celebration of local artists and allows audiences to experience the independent arts of Sydney.

Language English

Time zone GMT+11

Country Code +61

Socket Type I

Currency Australian Dollar

Weather in Sydney in September

September is the beginning of spring in Sydney. You experience chilly westerly winds in the city, but it gets cold near the waters due to the winds. The temperature is usually pleasant during this time of the year. The overall temperatures are between 10°C to 24°C. September is usually a sunny month in Sydney. But since it is spring, you can expect a short downpour though.

Where to stay in Sydney in September

Finding a suitable stay at this time of the year should not be an issue. Here is a list of places to stay in Sydney to suit your requirement.

• Luxury – Four Seasons Hotel Sydney , Mercantile Hotel , The Langham Sydney .
• Moderate – Sydney Boutique Hotel , The Palms Hotel , Sydney Central YHA .
• Budget – Sydney Central Inn , Ibis Sydney Darling Harbour , Marco Polo Motor Inn: Hotel Sydney .

What to pack for Sydney in September

Since it is the beginning of spring, few days are warm, while some can get cold. It is ideal to pack for both kinds of weather. You can pack shorts, T-shirts, jeans if you prefer. Women can carry a sarong, as it is common in Sydney to go out for a lazy breakfast right by the beach. Men can carry a pair of jeans or shorts or cropped pants for daytime. You can also pack sneakers or flip-flops to have a comfortable walk.

Getting around in Sydney in September

• Bus – The bus fares depend on the number of zones you travel with. The fare begins at 2.25 AUD for off-peak travel.
• Train – The City Circle is the train that runs in a loop which stops at all the main stations.
• Ferry – The ferry takes you through Sydney Harbour, the Manly, the Taronga Zoo, the Olympic Park, to name a few.
• Bike Share – Car rental – You can rent a car and go around the city at your own convenience. The general rate starts from 60 AUD.

This flaky package is a pure guilty pleasure and is the epitome of Australian food. This item is on the menu at every house party. The meat pie has many different variations of it, but if you like it simple, have the one with mashed potatoes and gravy. Grab a bite of this pie at Harry's Cafe de Wheels .

This dish is quick and easy to make. Squid or calamari covered in salt-and-pepper batter, deep-friend and is accompanied by sweet chilli sauce. This is a pub staple and is often served as a snack with a side salad. You can try this out at Nicks Seafood Restaurant .

An Australian barbeque is made up of sausages, steak, lamb cutlets, burgers, and fresh seafood. All this is washed down with a few stubbies (beer). If you wish for a more refined barbeque experience, you should dine at Firedoor , a grill restaurant in Surry hills, Sydney.

This is a traditional seafood starter made from shelled prawns in mayonnaise and tomato dressing, served in a glass with a lettuce leaf. This was embraced by Australia as its own in the 1970s. You can enjoy this exotic cocktail at Felix .

John Dory is a popular fish variety amongst the local Australian cuisine. It is battered and fried/ pan-fried with herbed oil and is served with chips on a bed of mashed potato with salad on the side. This is a popular Australian food and can be had at Golden Sheaf Hotel .

• The weather in September is generally pleasant, so you are blessed with a shoulder season. You can just carry light clothing like shorts, t-shirts, skirts etc.
• Since September is not a peak season in Sydney, you are bound to find cheap airfare.
• The perfect way to get around the city would be through Sydney Trains. The City Circle Line is a great deal for travelers looking to see some of the city’s well-known attractions.
• If you want to get from one part of the city to another, you can also catch a ferry across Sydney Harbour. Enjoy a stellar ferry trip while sailing through the soothing weather at this time of the year.
• Visiting the city during September is an ideal choice if you wish to beat the crowd.

Is September a good time to visit Sydney?

Yes! In fact, September is the start of the peak season for Sydney. The weather is comfortable and tourists are present, but manageable, making it the perfect time to visit.

Is September rainy season in Sydney?

It is expected to rain for about 11 days across the month, an average of 60mm.

How hot is Sydney in September?

The average daytime temperatures in Sydney in September are around 16 degrees celsius, while high temperatures can hit peaks of 20°C on te warmer days. While the weather is warming up at the time, there can still be chilly winds occasionally.

Is September a good time for whale watching?

Maybe not whales, per sé, but you will have plenty of opportunities to spot Orcas, Minkes and if you're extra lucky, humpback whales. In September, Orcas are your best bet!

Can you swim in Sydney in September?

The weather will be comfortable but the water is going to be sea is pretty cool! The average temperature of the sea water in September is about 18 degrees celsius.

Month-By-Month Guide To Visiting Sydney

Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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Best places to visit in september 2024.

With fall just settling in and the hassles associated with summer travel dwindling, September is the perfect time for a getaway. By now, most tourists will have made their way out of popular destinations, and airfare and hotel rates will start to slide. U.S. News took into account these factors and more, including expert analysis and traveler sentiment, to come up with the best places to visit in September. Whether you're an adventure traveler looking for that next great trail to hike or an urbanite looking for a new city to buzz about, we've got a destination for you. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Sequoia National Park

Gros morne national park, honolulu - oahu, whitsunday islands, mount rainier national park, guilin and lijiang river national park, grand canyon national park, fiordland national park, the berkshires.

Moab, Utah, is a good choice for travelers seeking adventure and unparalleled natural beauty on their next vacation. Arches National Park sits a mere 5 miles north of town, making Moab a great home base for activities like hiking, horseback riding and canyoneering. Or, crank up the tunes on a scenic drive through the park. September is warm in the 70s and 80s, which makes other outdoor pursuits like rafting, biking and stargazing ideal.

With average temperatures sitting in the 70s and 80s in September, the Greek island of Santorini entices travelers with favorable weather, sunny skies and warm waters, perfect for swimming at some of Greece's top shorelines like Red Beach and Kamari Beach. After sipping vino at one of the region's top-notch wineries, dine alfresco along Amoudi Bay or take in the island's stunning natural beauty on the roughly 6-mile hike from Fira to Oia. Plan your vacation for mid-September to catch the Ifestia Festival, an annual event paying respect to the island's volcanic history through live music and a fireworks display.

September is the sweet spot for visiting Sequoia National Park – summer crowds thin as kids go back to school and temperatures remain comfortable in the high 60s, but roads and services have not yet closed for the winter season. This makes popular activities like hiking through the Giant Forest and driving the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway even more enjoyable. Arrive on the fourth Saturday of September to take advantage of National Public Lands Day, one of the National Park Service's free admission days.

Adventurous travelers will be enamored with Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Not only can visitors sail past a glacier-carved fjord on a boat tour of Western Brook Pond, but they'll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk upon the Earth's exposed mantle in the Tablelands. While summer is a popular time to travel to Gros Morne, a September visit brings added benefits like vibrant fall colors, crowd-free trails and active wildlife.  

Oahu is Hawai'i's most-visited island and Waikiki is one of America's most popular beaches , so if you want ample room to spread out on its famous shores, visiting during the fall shoulder season is your best bet. In September, the island sees fewer tourists but still offers hot, dry weather and warm water ideal for swimming and surfing. The discounted rates in September will also make your vacation that much more relaxing, and you'll be able to experience one of Hawai'i's biggest cultural events, the Aloha Festivals.

Situated off the coast of Queensland, Australia, this chain of 74 islands are loved for their postcard-worthy beaches and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Base your stay on popular Hamilton Island, which features an array of adults-only resorts, or camp under the stars on Whitsunday Island, home to the popular Whitehaven Beach. Must-do activities in the Whitsundays include lounging on the sand, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Luckily, travelers who visit in September will be treated to low humidity and consistently sunny skies with average temperatures resting between the high 70s and low 80s.

Although September technically falls within this Washington park's shoulder season, travelers will still find plenty to love about an autumn visit to Mount Rainier National Park. Depending on your elevation, average temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the low 70s in September, and the region's beautiful fall colors make it a perfect time for leaf peeping . Take advantage of the pleasant conditions by hiking the popular Skyline Trail or admiring the stunning views of Mount Rainier from Sunrise, the highest point of the park that can be reached by car.

One of the world's most impressive national parks , Guilin and Lijiang River National Park in southern China is downright magical in September. The weather is cool and dry, making it easy to enjoy the park's mist-covered karst mountains and rice terraces, along with other highlights like the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. And while you'll surely want to explore on foot, a guided boat cruise down the Li River is no doubt the best way to soak up Guilin's stunning scenery.

Visiting Arizona's Grand Canyon during its peak summer season can be risky (high daytime desert temperatures and steep hikes don't mix well). September not only offers a slightly cooler climate but fewer crowds to contend with now that the kids will be back in school. The park's South Rim, which is usually bustling with tourists in summer, sees fewer visitors come September, making it a great time for hiking traveler-approved paths like the Rim Trail. What's more, destinations like the highly underrated North Rim are still open throughout the month.

The capital of Wales is a beautiful destination year-round, but September's mild temperatures (think: highs sit in the mid-60s) and colorful fall foliage make this an ideal time to plan a trip. Foodies will love dining on delicious Welsh cuisine at annual events like the Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival, held at the open-air St Fagans National Museum of History, and the Abergavenny Food Festival, which is hosted by the nearby town of Abergavenny. When you're not enjoying Cardiff's culinary specialties, spend your time exploring Roath Park or taking a guided tour of the historic Cardiff Castle.

Located on New Zealand's South Island, Fiordland National Park draws travelers with its stunning yet dramatic landscapes . While the weather in the park can be unpredictable in September (a spring month in the Southern Hemisphere), Fiordland typically sees daytime temperatures that hover in the 50s. These cool but comfortable days are when Fiordland's marine life, including penguins, fur seals and dolphins, tend to be most active, so be on the lookout while cruising or kayaking through jaw-dropping Milford Sound. Also save time for hiking one of the park's three Fiordland Great Walks trails.

The capital of South Korea is especially lovely come September. Temperatures are warm in the high 70s, and hotel and airfare prices have begun to drop after the busy summer season. Plus, with smaller crowds, it will be easier to enjoy top destinations like Bukchon Hanok Village and Bukhansan National Park. Travelers who plan their getaway for the end of the month can also experience Chuseok, a three-day harvest festival known as Korean Thanksgiving.

September is one of the best times to travel to this northern Morocco city, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture. Not only will you avoid summer's sweltering heat, but visiting in the offseason means you won't have to worry about rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. Spend your visit strolling through the magnificent Medina of Fez, a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, and remember to set aside time for a peaceful walk through the Jardin Jnan Sbil public gardens.  

This mountainous area of western Massachusetts offers a mix of outdoor activities and must-see cultural attractions. September brings crisp fall weather to the Berkshires (think: average temperatures in the high 60s) that is perfect for touring the grounds of the region's museums and historical sites. Plus, the pleasant temps make it possible to comfortably hike Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain's trails, which offer an up-close look at the beautiful fall foliage that starts appearing in September. A fall getaway also brings fun seasonal events like the Housatonic Heritage Walks and the Lenox Apple Squeeze.

Occupying about 90 miles of the California coast, Big Sur draws travelers with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque beaches. Visit in September to take advantage of the warm, dry weather lingering from summer without dealing with the peak season's crowds. Must-do activities here include hiking through state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns and Andrew Molera, snapping pics of Pfeiffer Beach's impressive rock formations and surfing at Sand Dollar Beach. September is also an ideal time for whale watching, so keep an eye out for migrating blue and humpback whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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17 must-visit NSW holiday destinations for families

Unsure where to visit in New South Wales? These NSW holiday destinations offer something fun for the whole family. From native wildlife, silica-white sand beaches, beautiful national parks and more.

1. The Blue Mountains

This World Heritage-listed landscape of deep valleys and sandstone plateaus provides the perfect backdrop for a weekend escape. Get lost among the cosy cafes and quirky shops that dot the region’s historic towns, including Leura, Katoomba, Blackheath, Hartley and Lithgow.

Soak up the world-famous site of the Three Sisters from Echo Point and discover the valley below by scenic railway or cable car at Scenic World. Stroll through the cool climate gardens of the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah, where kids can participate in the Children’s Adventure Quest, a self-guided, hands-on tour. Or take to the bush along one of the many mountain trails and walks at this NSW holiday destination.

Thrill-seeking types might prefer to explore the region on a canyoning, abseiling, mountain bike riding or horse-riding adventure.

Read: Awesome things to do in the Blue Mountains with kids

2. Griffith: Australia’s Fruit Bowl

Griffith offers a rich blend of cultures and traditions. Located in NSW’s lush Riverina district it is one of Australia’s most vibrant rural centres. Surrounded by lovely lakes, wildflower-filled national parks, farm and heritage trails, museums and more.

Known as Australia’s ‘Fruit Bowl’, the agricultural region was designed in the early 20th century as part of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme. European migrants settled in the region after World War I and II. Today more than 60 per cent of the local residents have Italian heritage. The tree-lined main street bursts with boutiques, cafes and bars that showcase local artisans, world-class wines and kid-friendly Italian cuisine.

3. Shoalhaven shines

With its white-as-white-can-be sand beaches, farm stays and wildlife-packed national parks and waters, the Shoalhaven is one of Australia most popular patches.  It stretches from the quaint country towns of Kangaroo Valley and Berry through buzzy Nowra to Jervis Bay, Mollymook and Ulladulla.

Accommodation is plentiful in the region and Holiday Haven have 12 unique properties spanning the Shoalhaven’s best beachfront, lakefront or riverfront locations. Ten of the parks offer dog-friendly options.

Read: Your ultimate guide to holidaying in Shoalhaven with kids

4. Coffs Coast

With its World Heritage-listed national parks, tree-lined historic hinterland villages, uncrowded beaches and the Solitary Islands Marine Park’s abundant wildlife, including migrating whales, birds and fish-filled coral reefs, Coffs Coast has it covered for outdoorsy families. There’s also a banana! An icon of Aussie family holidays for years, the Big Banana is now the gateway to an ice rink, water park, toboggan run and, well, bananas! Be sure to grab a frozen chocolate one for the road.

Read: The ultimate Coffs Coast road trip guide

5. Eurobodalla on the South Coast

Eurobodalla stretches from Narooma to Batemans Bay in the southern NSW coast. It is renowned for its dazzling blue tapestry of ocean, rivers, lakes and estuaries. Great surf beaches can be found at Narooma, Dalmeny and Kianga. There are also plenty of calm spots for those with small children. Protected Tomakin Cove is popular with younger families. Billy’s Beach is great for little explorers with its rock pools and caves.

If wildlife is your thing check out Mystery Bay. located on the edge of Eurobodalla National Park, it’s a great spot to watch migrating whales. Adventurous kids might prefer to delve into underwater adventures along the Batemans Bay snorkelling trail. Or enjoy an extraordinary wildlife experience swimming with seals at Montague Island. For those who prefer their adventures above the water, more animal encounters can be found at Mogo Zoo , home to an incredible collection of endangered and exotic species. There is more to Eurobodalla than sparkling blue waters and wildlife, so add this to your holiday in New South Wales bucket list to discover the rest.

Read: South Coast NSW family-friendly travel guide

6. Port Macquarie

From high-speed boats to scenic river cruises, kayaking to close encounters with migrating whales, there are myriad ways to enjoy Port Macquarie ’s magnificent waterways and beaches. Let the kids unleash their inner ‘Ninja Warrior’ to skid and slide around Stoney Aqua Park. It’s an epic overwater arena of inflatable obstacles, slides, trampolines and blast bags.

Explore the beach atop a camel with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris. Or get up close (though not too close) with rare and roar-some animals Billabong Zoo.  Including five-metre monster croc, Shrek. The whole family will enjoy the Walk, Talk and Feed tour at Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital.

Read: 20 family-friendly things to do in Port Macquarie

7. Mungo National Park in the Wentworth Region of southwestern NSW

Camp, drive, walk or ride through the extraordinary Mungo National Park, located in southwestern NSW. Mungo’s ancient Indigenous history dates back to the last ice age, more than 45,000 years ago, and remains strong today.

Along with an otherworldly landscape moulded by wind and rain and remarkable archaeological finds like Mungo Man – who, at a spritely 42,000 years old, is Australia’s oldest known human skeleton – visiting families can learn about the local Indigenous people and how they used ancient science that’s relevant today to stay connected to country and survive extreme climate change.

Read: Must-sees on a road trip through Outback NSW

8. Showstopping scenery in Broken Hill

Stunning scenery and starry skies, captivating history and a cast of colourful characters make the frontier mining town of Broken Hill – the gateway to Outback NSW – a show-stopping destination. An intriguing real-life ghost town, Silverton, along with some of NSW’s most remarkable national parks, including Mutawintji National Park, Kinchega National Park and the Living Desert State Park – the site of the Sculpture Symposium – provide the perfect support act.

• Visit Silverton’s Mad Max Museum, Australia’s first and only museum dedicated to the films.
• Walk among The Living Desert & Sculptures at sunset.
• Pop by Bells Milk Bar for one the famous milkshakes, sodas and spiders the icon of Broken Hill has been 24 dishing out for decades.
• Clamber up The Big Chair for a photo op.

Read: 10 iconic Australian films to satisfy your wanderlust

9. The Hunter

The Hunter incorporates four very different cities – Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Maitland and Cessnock – each packed with plenty of fun for families.

While the Hunter Valley’s special grape juice might be the biggest lure for mum and dad, it’s not all about wine. There are myriad parks, playgrounds and reserves to explore, animals to pet at the Hunter Valley Zoo, and lots of cheese, chocolate and freshly made fudge to be devoured.

Lake Macquarie is twice the size of Sydney Harbour and promises a world of fun with boating and fishing to swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and jet boating. Then take time to explore the 90 villages that surround the lake.

Along with its beautiful beaches, parklands and playgrounds, Newcastle – Australia’s seventh-largest city – is also a haven for history buffs. Visit Nobby’s Lighthouse, the earliest surviving lighthouse in New South Wales (and enjoys spectacular views), and Fort Scratchley, perched high on Flagstaff Hill, to clamber around cannons and tunnel your way through 200 years of history

Nestled on the banks of the pretty Hunter River, Maitland is an enticing city with a rich history, creative arts community and bucketloads of fun for families. All just two hours from Sydney or 40 minutes from Newcastle.

Read: Family-friendly things to do in Maitland

Spectacular coastline, undulating green hills and lush hinterland are just a few of the plentiful delights that lure families to Kiama.

We love the shock and awe of the famed Kiama Blowhole. The rock formation spouts plumes of frothing ocean into the sky intermittently. Find coastal cool at the calm Easts and Kendalls Beach. Then catch some waves at Mystics, Bombo or Werri Beach at nearby Gerringong.

Soak up the dramatic view of Bombo Headland along the 20-kilometre Kiama Coast Walk from Minnamurra Station to Gerringong in the south, stopping for a swim along the way. You might even be lucky enough to spot a whale or two during the annual migration.

Once you’ve had your fill of watery fun, take to the sky at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest from the zipline or the 1.5-kilometre Treetop Walk. Or visit the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre in Budderoo National Park to stroll along its elevated walkways through forests of ancient figs to a delightful waterfall.

For an adventure, head to Jamberoo Action Park. Take on thrill slides like The Perfect Storm and Funnel Web and enjoy heated shallow pools and mini water slides at Billabong Beach, ensuring even little ones can safely splash

Here are the best things to do in Kiama with kids

11. The Central West

Once you have conquered the misty, winding roads of the Blue Mountains, keep driving and you will find yourself surrounded by the Central West ’s lush vineyards, grassy paddocks filled with frolicking lambs and plenty of country charm.

Read: 5 unmissable towns in NSW’s central west

12. Kosciuszko National Park

The stunning alpine area is home to Mount Kosciuszko, which at a mighty 2,228 metres above sea level, is the highest peak in mainland Australia.

Thredbo Resort is a refreshing alternative for summer adventures and the coolest of these NSW holiday destinations.

With its prime position in the heart of Kosciuszko National Park, once the snow melts you’ll find epic hiking trails and scenic walks to suit all levels. Hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko to see it carpeted in alpine wildflowers. There are also gravity-defying biking trails, fly fishing, horse riding, kayaking and Australia’s highest golf course.

Back in the village visit the fantastic Thredbo Leisure Centre. It has an Olympic-sized pool, water slides and huge pool inflatables.

Read: A guide to Thredbo in summer

13. Central Coast

Just an hour from Sydney and Newcastle, the Central Coast is bursting at the seams with fun for families. From the patrolled beach, sea baths and coastal boardwalk of The Entrance and sensational surf and swimming spots at Toowoon Bay and Copacabana to Terrigal’s four stunning kilometres of patrolled beach and pretty lagoon, there’s plenty of sun, sea and sand to be found on the Central Coast. Trade beach for bush at Bateau Bay’s Wyrrabalong, where easy walking trails lead to stunning lookouts, or take to the trees at Ourimbah’s TreeTops Adventure Park. To meet and greet critters from koalas and kangaroos to birds, snakes and lizards, head to the Australian Reptile Park for keeper talks, demonstrations and hands-on encounters.

Read: The best things to do on the Central Coast of NSW

14. Lord Howe Island

This tiny island is paradise for families. It is easy to get around by bike. This is because the island is only 11 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide and there are few cars.

The pristine lagoon of the Lord Howe Island Marine Park is home to the world’s southernmost coral reef, Elizabeth Reef. Snorkelling and swimming will usually reveal beautiful coral and a turtle or two.

There are many family-friendly walks on the island. The walk to Little Island is a beauty, as is the one to Kim’s Lookout. But its experts only for the climb to Mt Gower.

Jump off Lord Howe Island Jetty, swim at Ned’s Beach, play golf, soak in the Herring Pools. Then admire the curious woodhens who were brought back from the brink of extinction. Family time here is extra special, and it might be a cliché, but you will not want to leave.

Not only is Lord Howe home to an astounding 500 species of fish and 90 coral species, the island is Australia’s premier bird watching destination, with 130 permanent and migratory bird species, and 14 species of seabirds, including one of the world’s rarest birds, the Providence petrel, who breed on the island.

Read: Lord Howe Island is an adventure playground and history lesson in one

Dubbo, in the sheep-strewn plains of central New South Wales, is crammed with so much to see and do for every member of your crew. At five hours from Sydney, a road trip it may be, but one well worth the effort. There are dozens of great attractions and activities for kids. Dubbo will have adventurous families grabbing your paddles, gearing up and donning helmets and riding boots ready for action.

Nearby, a number of quaint and picturesque rural villages including Toongi, Wongarbon, Ballimore, Eumungerie and Brocklehurst make for great family-friendly day trips.

Read : 17 awesome things to do in Dubbo with kids

16. The Tweed

The Tweed region on the Far North Coast of NSW is the perfect place for an active Australian adventure. It is nestled in the caldera of an ancient shield volcano, resulting in stunning natural landscapes.

Swim in beautiful estuaries, surf on world-class beaches, and cycle or stroll along the beautiful Tweed coastline. Enjoy a scenic drive or bushwalk in the pristine wilderness of Mount Warning and embark on a ‘Pot to Plate Adventure’ led by a Bundjalung Nation guide to catch and cook crabs on the Terranora Lakes mangroves, organised by Tweed Eco Cruises. Or simply relax and enjoy the sparkling seaside villages and hinterland hamlets.

17. Bathurst

Australia’s oldest inland city is more than simply a petrolhead mecca or a bygone relic of the gold rush. It’s an intriguing blend of heritage architecture, museums, and a thriving food and wine scene.

But the true magic of Bathurst lies beyond its long, maple-lined streets. The locals have made the region’s spectacular natural wonders accessible for everyone to enjoy. Outdoor activities include fossicking for gold, cherry picking, swimming in the Chifley Dam and the Turon River.

Locals have always known that Bathurst is the true gem of the Central West of New South Wales. Now, everyone else is playing catch up.

Keep reading:

• 28 things to do in Bathurst with kids
• 18 secret swimming spots near Bathurst

This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. To subscribe to the latest issue, click here .

Main image © Lord Howe Island Tourism/Kayla Hiscox

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20 Beautiful Places In NSW To Inspire Your Next Road Trip

Published on 24/05/2023 at 03:01 PM

Everyone’s fleeing overseas for some Northern Hemisphere summers for the first time in years. But, not all of us can do that right now, which makes now the perfect time to focus on the beauty of our own state. Now more than ever, we’re discovering our own watering holes, mountains, and headlands—and so we should. 

New South Wales is home to rolling vineyards, untouched World-Heritage Parks, sapphire coasts and so much more. We have access to world-class wines in Hunter Valley, towering waterfalls in the Blue Mountains, ancient National Parks, and world-renowned surfing spots. Those are just the more known locations. You’d be surprised what you might find hidden in our diverse landscape. From a tiny island in the Tasman Sea to peculiar-looking rock formations, our state has it all.

Before taking in all New South Wales has to offer, be sure to head to  your local Battery World  to have the health of your van’s battery health checked, or even get fitted with a new one.

Now your battery is all ready to go, it’s time to plan that epic road trip you’ve been talking about for years. 

Lord Howe Island

You can’t exactly drive to this destination, but it’s top of our list for an epic adventure in NSW. Lord Howe Island is a tiny island in the Tasman Sea, home to around 400 people, including a capped limit on tourists at any time. The ancient volcanic remnant boasts a relatively untouched landscape. Challenge yourself with an 8-hour hike up Mt. Gower, swim with the local fish at Ned’s Beach, hike Malabar Hill for sunrise and Goats Cave at sunset, and scuba dive at over 60 world-class diving spots, including one near the world’s tallest sea stack. So, if you’re looking to escape, and when we say escape we mean no cell-service or Wi-Fi— just nature— then this island should be top of your list. 

Hyams Beach

Sure, the Caribbean has beautiful beaches, but Australia has the whitest sand in the world and it’s a mere three-hour drive from Sydney. Hyams Beach is in the Shoalhaven region on the southern shores of Jervis Bay Marine Park. Take a dip in the calm blue waters, which is perfect for swimming and snorkelling or walk the stretch of white sand or plan a gourmet picnic on the beach through Hyams Beach Hampers.  You can set up a beach hut and cushions on a secluded stretch of sand and enjoy the beach to yourself. 

Mungo National Park

We meant it when we said that NSW has it all. Mungo National Park resembles a certain red planet, fourth from the sun. The ancient dry lake basins and sand formations have to be seen to be believed. The crusty, dry landscape is home to towering dunes, formed from quartz and clay, and is the site of thousands of artefacts dating back to 50,000 years ago. It’s rich in Aboriginal history which makes a tour one of the best ways to explore the land. You can also drive the 70km Mungo self-guided tour, which passes through the main attractions including the Walls Of China Boardwalk, and Red Top Lookout. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for this tour. 

The Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains which gets its name from the blue horizon of eucalyptus trees is a million hectares of sandstone cliffs, canyons and waterfalls. It would take years to cover every inch, but there are plenty of hiking trails and iconic sights that help you discover it’s best parts. Set out on a trail to find waterfalls and rivers to cliffs with sweeping views of the mountains. The Three Sisters is an iconic rock formation and easy to get to. The scenic skyway gondola is also a great way to get an eagle-eye view. Other highlights include Govetts Leap Lookout, The Blue Lake along the Jenolan River Walk, Jenolan Caves, and a glow-worm tour is always a spectacle.

Orange is a place to delight your eyes and your senses. Apart from its wine and local produce, Orange puts on a colourful display, which changes during the seasons. Expect sun yellow canola fields, and burnt orange leaves during autumn, which is best seen from Pinnacle Reserve and Lookout. Some winters, the central tablelands region turns white, putting on a magical display for locals and visitors. Orange is also home to many gardens, some pretty enough to inspire paintings. Visit the Orange Botanic Gardens, Orange Regional Gallery, and Cook park. 

Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is home to more cellar doors than any other wine region in Australia, which makes it a destination as well as a beautiful place to visit. Awe at the rolling hills and rows upon rows of vines. The sunrise here is best taken in from above, in a hot air balloon to be exact. Set down on a patch of grass to take in the sights with a cheese board, or saddle up and go horseriding through a vineyard. Other beautiful places in the Hunter, besides the wineries, include the Hunter Valley Gardens, and Yengo National Park. At Barrington Tops National Park you can hike through a rainforest, chase waterfalls, and take in the mountain views.

The Grand Pacific Drive

It’s dubbed one of the prettiest roads in NSW, maybe because it follows along the coast and leads to lush rainforests, a peppering of seaside towns and a beach with the whitest sand in the world. The 140km stretch of tar kicks off from the Royal National Park, following a windy path of pacific vistas. The Sea Cliff Bridge is definitely a highlight and popular among tourists looking to snap the coastal road, which sits over the water. The road leads to Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay, Kiama and so many more towns. Stop in to try the local cuisine, go for a dip or hike one of the many national parks along the way. Adventure awaits. 

Gerringong is a place where land meets the sea, offering the best of country and coastal lifestyles. Perched on a dramatic headland, you will find ocean views, countryside charm, rolling farmlands, and vineyards. Go for a swim at Boat Harbour Rock Pool, or take a stroll along Seven Mile Beach. Inland, head to the wineries and visit cellar doors, pick up fresh produce and pick up a pie from Gerringong Bakery. 

Broken Hill

Broken Hill has been the backdrop for many movies, yet travellers are reluctant to make the trip to the outback. In recent years, the small red dust town has introduced hotels, attractions and museums—making it a destination, rather than a stop. A visit to Broken Hill reveals a rich history and art culture, but more importantly natural beauty. Its landscape is dry and rough, but it’s also delicate and painted in orange and red hues. The Sundown Nature Trail is the best place to view the horizon and some impressive rock structures. The road trip to Broken Hill passes by some impressive sights of their own including copper mining town Cobar, Warrawong on the Darling, White Cliffs, and Mundi Mundi Lookout. 

Promised Land’s Never Never River

If we told you there was a never never region in NSW would you believe us? This secret gem on the North Coast promises swimming holes with crystal waters, rope swings scattered throughout the forest, and white water rafting. Although, its claim to fame is the Never Never River, a distinctly blue river. It gets its colour from the minerals in the rocks below. The river is located in the town of Bellingen, a 28-minute drive from Coffs Harbour. The river is quite easy to find, after a short walk through the Promised Lands, but feels a whole world away—more like something from a fairy tale. To take full advantage of the place, spend a night in your own chalet overlooking the natural paradise.

The Faraway Domes in Warialda

Take a trip to NSW’s countryside, for rolling hills, grazing livestock, and one of the best nights of stargazing you might ever experience. The small town of Warialda is closer to Brisbane than it is to Sydney. It has a rich gemstone heritage, and a wealth of nature reserves, but the Faraway Domes are definitely the reason to make the trip out here. Set in bush settings, you can stay in a geodesic dome that overlooks the valley, and gets you up and close with the local wildlife. Each dome is about high-tech modular living in the 21st Century, without leaving a footprint on its land. The domes are built for two, but most importantly are set in the best stargazing advantage point. While here, you can hike the region, explore Macintyre Falls, Copeton Dam, Cranky Rock Nature Reserve and, many more natural sights.  Book here

Kangaroo Valley Outhouse

If this isn’t the most beautiful dunny you’ve seen, you’re lying. This outhouse in the Kangaroo Valley services a small cabin for overnight stays, so if you want to visit, might as well stay there and take full advantage of this beautiful place. During the day, the outhouse disappears as it reflects the surrounding lush landscape, visible only via the subtle lines of the edge of the cube. The outhouse itself sits low on a hillside and can be accessed via a pathway through dense forest.  If you’re wondering, if you can see outside when you are utilising the facilities, the answer is yes. It doesn’t get any more beautiful than that, especially from the toilet seat. 

Warrumbungle National Park

Warrumbungle National Park is Australia’s first and only Dark Sky Park, making it a prime stargazing destination. You can camp under the stars at campgrounds such as Camp Blackman or Camp Wambelong, but remember, it’s a dark park, so you will have to watch where you shine a light. The Dark Sky Park is not only for public enjoyment, but specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, and cultural heritage. At night, watch the sky light up, revealing a glistening milky way guaranteed to skip a heartbeat. While the main attraction is at night, during the day you can explore the rugged volcanic mountains, rising out of the desert plains. It’s a sight to behold. 

Australia Rock at Eurobodalla

If you’re road-tripping down the South Coast, stop into Eurobodalla, a small town boasting beaches, and iconic viewpoint with a rock resembling Australia. Bar Rock Lookout is where you can see Australia Rock, a unique rock formation, that when looked at from the right angle, resembles a map of Australia without Tasmania— sorry TAS. There are a few stories about its origin, but the one that is most likely true is the result of thousands of years of erosion. Although, one of the more exciting explanations is that a ship was moored to the heads with large chains, and slowly wore away the rock to create its shape. You can find the lookout on Bar Rock Road. 

Yarrangobilly Caves

Kosciuszko National Park is most famous for those who love snow sports, but it’s also home to some of the most stunning caves in Australia. These caves are no ordinary caves if that’s even a thing. Here, you will find six caves created from a belt of limestone laid down around 440 billion years ago. The largest cave, South Glory, can be explored on your own, but the other two, Jersey and Jillabenan, are guided tours. Tickets can be purchased from Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre . If you want to spend the weekend exploring the caves, thermal pools and other hidden gems, stay in this award-winning heritage guesthouse . 

Lake Mulwala

Lake Mulwala sits on the border between VIC and NSW, in the town of Corowa. Apart from its attractive foreshores that provide year-round recreation, the lake offers a pretty majestic sight. Think ghostly river red gums, and golden hues at sunset, which also happens to be the best time to visit. It’s a wonderful experience and sight, that is best taken in by kayak. You can hire or join a group and glide through the waters of Lake Mulwala. Underwater, you’ll find Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Murray crayfish and more. 

Cowra Canola Trail

On your next trip south, take a tour of Riverina’s highly-Instagrammable canola trail. Best viewed during August’s season bloom, the trail takes you through a sea of sun yellow canola, begging for a selfie. Although, most of these fields are working canola farms, so it’s best admired from afar. The region is also known for its food and wine, so it would be a shame to miss those experiences. For more spectacular sights of sweeping valleys, rolling hills and more, drive around, there’s plenty to see.

Armidale is a small city, home to 24,000 people, but it’s surrounded by awe-inspiring natural sights from forests to winding roads hugging waterfalls. Explore Armidale Pine Forest, spread over 170 acres or take in the towering Wollomombi Falls, which also offers views of other waterfalls in the area. Speaking of waterfalls, one of the most beautiful spots in this region is Waterfall Way, a road between Armidale and Bellingen, boasting waterfall views and surrounding scenery. It’s well worth a road trip. 

Worimi Conservation Lands

Swap rolling green hills for rolling golden hills at Worimi Conservation Lands, a place of cultural significance to the Worimi Aboriginal people. The land is recognised as the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, so every time you visit, it might look a little different. Have fun exploring the dunes, some even towering 30 metres above sea level. The shifting sands reveal ancient Aboriginal cultural sites, including middens, which contain shell deposits and tool-making artefacts, campsites and burial sites. Here, you can explore Stockton Beach, which sits in front of the dunes or head to the forest to discover 1,800 hectares of blackbutt, smooth-barked apple gums and paperbark. The 4WD and quad bike tours are the best way to take in the sights.

Horse Head Rock

Horse Head Rock speaks for itself. The 500 million-year-old rock is among the oldest rocks in NSW, which was barely known beyond the Sapphire Coast until the last few years when photos started popping up on Instagram from photographers. In 2020, there was a viewing platform added, so you can easily see the rock formation. You can also head around the rocks from Camel Rock Surf Beach for a great photo, but it’s only accessible during low tide and when the sea is calm. 

With over 100 Battery World stores across Australia, there’s bound to be one near you. Check out your local Battery World store today .

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The best cheap holiday spots near Sydney in New South Wales

At these top retreats not far from Sydney, you can holiday like a baller while sticking to a budget

There are plenty of places to holiday in NSW that’ll set you back a pretty penny. But you needn’t splash all your cash to have a great local getaway. There are many affordable breaks to be had across the state, that won’t break the bank or shortchange you on top-quality experiences.

We’ve picked the seven best (and most affordable) holidays from Sydney that you can enjoy for just a few hundred bucks, for when you want a vacay without waiting for payday.

Want to get out into nature without losing your creature comforts? Check out these top glamping sites around NSW .

Stay thrifty in sydney with our guide to the 25 best things to do for under $25 and the absolute best happy hours. .

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The most affordable getaways in NSW

Shoalhaven and the beautiful stretch of the state in and around Jervis Bay is one of the all-time great holiday go-tos of NSW, just two-and-a-half hours south of Sydney. Callala Beach and Vincentia are popular with the getaway set, but the lesser-visited coastal town of Huskisson is perfectly situated right in the heart of the bay with million-dollar views that won't bust your budget. You can easily find beachfront accommodation with plumbing and power at one of Huskisson's camper and RV parks or at the many small rental cottages in the area, like those at the Holiday Haven , available for as little as $115 night. One of the best ways to explore the ancient mangroves, river estuaries and bay waters is on a guided kayak tour, which will cost around $69 per person for a two-hour experience with Jervis Bay Kayaks . Keep your eyes peeled for green sea turtles, dolphins and giant rays, which are commonly spotted where the Currambene Creek flows into the natural harbour.

The most populous town in the Blue Mountains is just a couple of hours by train out of Sydney Central. If hiking is your jam, you can trek to your heart’s content here without spending a cent – even after dark, thanks to the newly opened Katoomba Reserve Night-lit Walk , which will take you past the majestic Katoomba Falls and onto the Three Sisters. There are heaps of cute-as-a-button guest houses dotted around town, where you can find a comfy bed in pleasant surrounds just minutes from both the town centre and the Jamieson Valley, and few will set you back more than $200 a night. There are plenty of great places to grab an affordable bite on the main drag of Katoomba Street, but be sure to check out Frankly My Dear Coffee , which is serving up one of the best brews in the Blues, and a hearty menu of comfort food favourites (you must  try the toasties), all priced under $20. For a sophisticated day trip, jump on the Megalong Valley winery shuttle bus , which costs $45 for five hours. It'll whisk you to top Blue Mountains wineries, such as the Dryridge Estate , which offers tastings for as little as $15 per person.

The XPT train runs daily between Sydney and Bathurst and will deposit you right in the heart of town from a crazy $11.80. The nation’s oldest inland settlement is a great option for history buffs, culture seekers and the culinary-curious. Bed and breakfast accommodation is the go here, such as the cosy (but not costly) Alfred on Keppel . With your sleeping arrangements in order, it’s time to explore the Bathurst Arts Trail . Visit on the first weekend of each month and peruse the wares of local makers including potters, glass artists, sculptors and printmakers. If it's history you seek, a visit to Abercrombie House (pictured) is a must. The heritage-listed ancestral home of the Morgan family is a masterpiece of gothic architecture and you can take a tour of both the house and grounds every Wed-Sun for just $15. Autumn is an ideal time to visit this forested region. 

It is a truth universally acknowledged that an inner city-dwelling Sydneysider will drag their feet at the prospect travelling any further than Marrickville.  But this convenient city-stay in Sydney's west is full of art, culture and excellent eats more than worth the trip. Sydney’s second Big Smoke is in the middle of a huge hospitality and retail boom and it’ll cost you just a few dollars to reach by train or riverboat from central Sydney. You should certainly make time to explore the amazing  dining precinct in the heart of Parramatta, which features eateries by star restaurateurs such as Maurice Terzini from Bondi Icebergs and the talented team behind high-end Middle Eastern diner Nour . Another great way to discover all the delicious delights of the area is on a Taste Tour . For just $65 per person, you’ll not only get to savour multiple cuisines, from sushi to dumplings to gelato, but you’ll also learn about Parramatta’s ancient and pre-colonial history. 

This seaside escape just south of Lake Illawarra is a natural wonderland of volcanic rocks, gushing blowholes and ancient rainforests. Best of all, it’s just 90-minutes drive from Central Sydney – or two hours by train, although the stunning scenery en route will make the journey time fly by. Prepare for a generous spritz of salty surf on the Kiama Coast Walk , an essential outing that takes in both of the famed blowholes and the sea-sculpted basalt of the Cathedral Rocks. The entire trail, which is free to access, is 20km, but it can be broken down into three more manageable stretches if that’s a little more cardio than you were banking on. If the thrill of the ocean spray whets your appetite for yet more excitement, get your adrenaline pumping with a trip to the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures , home of the highest zipline in Australia, which will send you whizzing through the treetops 35-metres above the forest floor. Too white-knuckle? The treetop walk is a more serene option, where you can amble along an elevated boardwalk surrounded by the lush canopy of the rainforest for just $22.

Central NSW

Since domestic travel is all we have to satisfy our wanderlust at present, road tripping – or ‘nomading’ if you want to use the currently in-vogue lingo – is enjoying a surge in popularity. Which is why it pays to take the roads less travelled. Instead of heading up or down the coast like the majority, beat the crowds by venturing inland to some of the gorgeous country towns and villages in Central NSW that are under the radar of most holiday seekers. Hidden gems like Rylstone, Canowindra, Tumbarumba and Holbrook are rich with history and unique local culture, as well as boasting great cuisine and wine to boot. And since many of these rural towns are located within national parkland, they are excellent places to base yourself for a nature-centric weekender. Accommodation options can sometimes be limited, but you can keep your overheads even leaner by hiring a campervan .

Batemans Bay

Venture south to the heart of Australia’s Oyster Coast and sample succulent Clyde River oysters from the farm gates of Pearly Oyster Bar and Farm and the Oyster Shed on Wray Street . You won't have to pay the eye-watering prices of a fine diner, however. Purchasing them from the source means you can get your fill of the freshest bargain bivalves on the cheap. There are also wildlife encounters of the non-edible kind on the coast of Batemans Bay. Meet fur seals and penguins off Montague Island, follow ancient walking tracks like the 2km Wasp Head Walk in Murramaranga National Park, or go bush swimming in the Clyde River National Park, all without opening your wallet, before calling it a day at the Bay Breeze Boutique Motel , where you can rest your head for around $200 a night.

Check out more of the state

The most underrated holiday destinations that you should be visiting in NSW

Off NSW’s beaten tracks are some unsung holiday heroes where you can experience an amazing vacation without the crowds. Here are our picks for the most underrated getaway destinations in the state.

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The ultimate holiday guide to the Central West

• Getting there
• Destinations

Drive beyond the haze of the Blue Mountains , and it won’t be long before you reach the open plains and abundant farmlands of the Central West. From the slopes of the Central Tablelands out to the western flats, here you’ll find delicious produce, excellent wine and fascinating stories aplenty.

Book in for lazy winery lunches, produce-laden tours and long hikes at the foodie hubs of Orange and Mudgee . You’ll be leaving these famous wine regions with a packed car boot, laden with local food and a rattling half-dozen bottles.

There’s also the lively student city of Bathurst, with its impressive heritage and need for speed when it comes to car racing. Discover the captivating stories of Cowra, once the site of a daring escape by Japanese prisoners of war.

Delight kids and family alike with a day out at Dubbo’s very own African safari, or with a trip to the iconic ‘Dish’ out in Parkes to learn more about the stars that shine so bright out here.

Best places to visit in Central West NSW

Orange versus Mudgee: which town comes out on top?

A road trip to Orange or Mudgee is both an escape to the country and a delightfully wine-fuelled weekend. But is it poss...

The food and wine town of Mudgee on the Cudgegong River has it all: cellar doors to visit, colonial-era buildings to see and local brews to try. Get back to nature here on nearby bush, wetland and rainforest trails.

Renowned for its vineyards and fruit orchards, the Central Tablelands town plays the bountiful host for any gourmet long weekend. Peruse its elegant boutique high street shops, tramp over snow-covered fields in winter and go cherry picking in spring.

Take a walk on the wild side at the Orana region city of Dubbo , a family-favourite that’s home to an African Plains-style safari adventure, heritage architecture and millions of stars that you can spy at the town’s observatory.

Australia’s oldest inland city is young at heart, with a burgeoning student population and thrilling motorsport races at Mount Panorama. Check out the remnants of its gold rush heritage and the toothsome inhabitants of its fossil and mineral museum.

Famous as the site of a former Prisoner of War Camp Site during World War Two, today the country town is home to a peaceful Japanese Garden and annual Cherry Blossom Festival, as well as vineyards, art exhibitions and gold rush history.

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Top things to do in Central West NSW

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The best wineries and cellar doors in Orange, NSW

From vineyards with a view to Australia’s only carbon-neutral winery, our pick of the spots not to miss in this boutiq...

Sample the best of the region’s cool-climate wines at any of the cellar doors in Orange. Don’t miss the European heritage Rowlee Wines, the family-run De Salis Wines (with its beautiful Blanc de Blanc sparkling), and the petting zoo at the Heifer Station Wines woolshed.

Over in Mudgee, start exploring one of Australia’s oldest wine regions at the Lowe Cellar Door, a certified organic and biodynamic vineyard. Check out the vintage motorcycle on display at Robert Stein winery, and the stunning family-owned De Beaurepaire Wines, with its French-style wines.

Nature & wildlife

Make like The Lion King on the open plains of Taronga Western Plains Zoo . With lions, meerkats, giraffes and zebras, a visit here feels like an African safari.

There’s lots of Australian wildlife to discover as well. Among the ridges of Nangar National Park, you might spot swooping wedge-tailed eagles, as well as roos and wallabies as you take the Mount Nangar walking track.

If you find yourself at Orange on a warm day, Lake Canobolas has ‘beaches’ from which you can launch yourself into its waters, as well as picnic areas where you can set up a late lunch.

Attractions & activities

What better way to see the mountains and vines of Mudgee, than from the sky? Book a Mudgee hot air balloon tour at sunrise to take to the air, before having a champagne breakfast.

At Dubbo, visit the old gaol lockup . Dating back to the 19th century, today a trip here will see you interact with theatrical performances and explore the historical grounds. At Bathurst, there is high tea at the heritage Abercrombie House , a Scottish-style mansion from the 1870s.

In spring, walk up Cowra’s ​​Sakura Avenue, to see the cherry trees blossom. It’s between the Japanese Garden and the site of the old Prisoner of War Camp , which housed Japanese prisoners in World War Two.

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The best boutique shops and markets in Orange

Your guide to shopping at the markets and boutiques in Orange and surrounds. Orange is a top spot to engage in a bit or retail th...

The best things to do in Orange, NSW

You could fill your entire Orange itinerary with winery visits, but we’ve got a fair few other gems you’ll want to make time f...

The best things to do in Mudgee

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Accommodation in Central West NSW

The best camping and glamping in Mudgee

From luxury bell tents pitched on hillsides and farmlands to camping alongside the river, in the bush or closer to town ...

Camping & caravan parks

With many national parks in this part of the world, there is free camping and low-cost camping galore (here are our picks of the best in Mudgee). At Terarra Creek camping and picnic area , drop a $6 booking fee to spend the night in the valley, walking along its pink honey-myrtle-lined creek in spring.

Out in Mudgee, the Old Bara Campground is a peaceful cattle property whose owners have provided pet and child-friendly camping at a low cost. NRMA Dubbo Holiday Park has cabins, as well as caravan and campsites, with a pool, playground and jumping pillow.

Hotels & motels

For old-world hospitality, the four-star Bishop’s Court Estate boutique hotel in Bathurst is a renovated Victorian property, with a historic chapel that is over a century old.

Unique & luxury accommodation

Go on an eco-friendly glamping trip with Siera Escape at Mudgee (also featured in our best places to stay in Mudgee) . A luxurious adults-only experience, spend just an hour or two here in the freestanding bath outside the tent, and you’ll be swearing to extend your booking. There is also the luxurious bell tents and private villas with

Glenayr Farm’s luxury glamping and villa accommodation are named in our list of 100 Unique Stays. The secluded accommodation is set on a 320-acre working sheep farm, is completely off-grid with all onside facilities solar-powered, features outdoor hot tubs and is within driving distance to Mudgee’s best wineries and restaurants.

For a romantic winery stay in Orange , the family-run Nashdale Lane Glamping is a boutique option for those who want to spoil their other half (for a minimum of two nights) at a cellar door. Sip on local Orange wine on the deck, before retiring to your four-poster bed.

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At Cowra, start your day at Breakout Brasserie, a charming little local that has the goods when it comes to gluten-free and breakfast options. Atmospheric and aesthetically gorgeous, The Auctioneer cafe in Dubbo serves up fresh French pastries and a seasonal breakfast and lunch menu.

If you’re in Orange, the hipster-esque Byng Street Local Store serves a cracking coffee, as well as food from breakfast to dinner. Tuck into a plate of salmon, dill and potato croquettes and settle in for a long brunch. Alternatively, the artisan Racine Bakery serves up butter pastry pies and sausage rolls six days a week.

For a winery long lunch or romantic dinner with a glass of some of Mudgee’s finest, book in at Pipeclay Pumphouse at the Robert Stein Vineyard & Winery for a set menu built out with local and homegrown produce. There are many restaurants to choose from in Orange, but for fine-dining, the hatted Lolli Redini is hard to go past.

For a more boisterous affair, the Elton’s Mudgee gastropub is a casual, yet stylish, bar that serves up share plates, craft beers and cocktails in what was once a 19th-century stable.

Get a serious upgrade on the packed lunches of your childhood, with a visit to Church Bar in Bathurst, housed in an old school. Church Bar serves up wood-fired pizza, happy hour drinks and good times.

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Getting to Central West NSW

To get to Central West NSW by car from Sydney, you’ll need to cross the Blue Mountains. It’s a two-hour trip to Lithgow in the foothills, two hours and 45 minutes to Bathurst, 2.5 hours to Oberon, 3.5 hours before you reach Orange or Mudgee, four hours to Cowra, and five hours to Dubbo.

NSW TrainLink runs daily services from Sydney to Lithgow. Take this and jump on one of the coach services that go to Mudgee or Orange, or simply fly direct to Mudgee, Orange or Bathurst airport.

Best time to visit

In winter the thermometer in the Central West drops, and you’re in with a shot of seeing snowflakes fall in Orange. In summer, temperatures out in Mudgee and Orange can reach the high thirties.

Spring and autumn are pleasant in between, with plenty of festivals to boot. Catch the Mudgee Food and Wine Festival in September, Orange’s Wine Festival in October, Bathurst 1000 motorsport race in November, and F.O.O.D Week festival in April.

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

20 Best Places to Visit on the South Coast, NSW

The South Coast of New South Wales has been my home the past two autumns. As I explored this stunning stretch of Australia’s coast from Eden to Wollongong in my van, I discovered beautiful beaches, friendly towns, incredible lookouts, and secluded camping spots.

While it’s certainly a popular place to visit, I found that it had a wonderfully laidback vibe after the busy summer months had past. The coastal communities on the South Coast were very welcoming and it had me thinking that it would be a pretty nice place to live.

In this post, I’m rounding up the best places to visit on the South Coast. Whether you’re heading off on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip or looking for a weekend escape from the city, these spots will definitely have you slipping into the slow pace of life on the coast.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Best Time to Visit the South Coast, NSW

The South Coast really is a haven at any time of the year. Of course, like most of the east coast, it get’s incredibly crowded, busy and expensive in summer, especially over the Christmas holidays.

However, for the rest of the year, it’s a beautiful place to hit the beach, go camping, walk in nature, and surf the breaks. I’ve spent the previous two autumns on the South Coast, and I have to say it’s probably my favourite time of the year.

The ocean is still warm enough to swim until May, plus you can get some beautiful sunrises and sunsets with relatively clear weather. Most of the towns are quiet by February, so you can easily explore the beaches and campgrounds without booking too far ahead.

Best Places to Visit on the South Coast

Whether you’re planning a road trip up the South Coast or looking for a getaway from Sydney for the weekend, here’s my pick of the 20 best places to visit on the South Coast. From coastal towns to national parks, don’t miss any of these spots if you want to see the best parts of this stunning coastline.

Royal National Park

As Australia’s first official national park, Royal National Park has been a favourite outdoor escape for generations. Just on the southern outskirts of Sydney, it’s known for some incredible bushwalking, bird watching, whale watching and camping.

Some of the coastal views are pretty spectacular, but if you visit on a weekend expect some very busy trails and campgrounds. Otherwise, during the week, you’ll be able to explore the waterfalls, coastal viewpoints, natural swimming spots, rainforest and camps without the crowds.

Some of the best walks include:

• Figure 8 Pools
• Wattamolla to Eagle Rock
• Karloo Pools
• The Coast Track (multi-day)

Read next: What to Pack for a Day Hike

Wollongong is a sprawling town that has really become a small city. Just south of Sydney, it’s one of the largest towns in New South Wales. While not as attractive as the other coastal towns further south, there are some very popular surf breaks and beautiful viewpoints not far from Wollongong.

As you drive south of Wollongong, the coastal views really open up along the famous stretch of the Grand Pacific Drive backed by the Illawarra Escarpment. Some of the best things to do in Wollongong include:

• Sea Cliff Bridge on Grand Pacific Drive
• Surfing at Wollongong North Beach, Wollongong City Beach, Coledale Beach and Bulli Beach
• Mount Kembla Summit Track
• Wollongong Botanic Garden

Stay | Urban Retreat

Kiama has become one of the most popular weekend coastal getaways from Sydney. The attractive town is built over the rolling cliffs of Illawarra, with rock pools, natural blow holes, and stunning viewpoints surrounding the town.

The main street is filled with cafes and boutique shops, but it’s the surrounding sights that makes Kiama one of my favourite spots on the South Coast. You could easily spend days in Kiama; taking time to explore the town’s attractions like the rock pools and lighthouse and then venturing further afield to nearby Minnamurra, Gerringong and Killalea Reserve. Or, you could take this small group, day trip to Kiama from Sydney seeing all the highlights in a day.

My favourite things to do in Kiama include:

• Kiama rock pool
• Kiama Coast Walk
• Bombo Headland Quarry
• Minnamurra Lookout
• Killalea Surfing Reserve

Stay | Kiama Shores

Read next: 18 Best Things to Do in Kiama

Kangaroo Valley

A slight detour off the South Coast, Kangaroo Valley is the perfect place if you want to swap waves for waterfalls. As one of the only closed valleys in the world, Kangaroo Valley is a stunning slice of bush paradise just 45km inland from Kiama.

While a long, steep drive up over the escarpment and hills behind the coast, the quaint town, lush green forest, tumbling waterfalls and variety of walking trails makes it all worthwhile.

Kangaroo Valley town itself is filled with boutique stays and farm to table restaurants, while the surrounding landscapes are best explored on foot or by water with kayaking and canoeing very popular activities.

Some of the best things to do in Kangaroo Valley include:

• Red Rock Trig walking track
• 19th century Hampden Bridge
• Drawing Room Rocks walk
• Kayak down the Kangaroo River
• Kangaroo Valley Farmers Market

Stay | Wildes Hotel Kangaroo Valley

Shoalhaven Heads

Located on the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, the small community of Shoalhaven Heads is a peaceful spot tucked away from the bustling towns of Kiama and Nowra. You can easily kick back for a few days, indulging in surfing, kite-surfing, horse riding and fishing.

It also makes for a good base for exploring other towns like Berry, Gerroa and Gerringong.

Stay | Lorsens on the River

Down on the Beecroft Peninsula, Currarong is a popular holiday destination. The small town is filled with holiday houses, and it’s not hard to see why. There are some incredible beaches, rock pools and hidden coves to explore around the peninsula, meaning there’s plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or longer.

Close to Currarong, head off on foot in the Abrahams Bosom Reserve to secluded beaches like Wilsons Beach and Lobster Bay and to the famous Gosangs Tunnel, a unique rock tunnel with views of the rugged coastline.

The rest of the peninsula is controlled by the navy, but it opens on weekends and in holidays for exploring more of the coast, including Honeymoon Bay and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse.

Stay | Claras Coastal Cottage

Read more: How to Get to Gosangs Tunnel

Huskisson and Hyams Beach

At the heart of the stunning Jervis Bay region, Huskisson is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the South Coast. While the town itself is small, it heaves with tourists all summer long. But don’t be put off, because you can find some of Australia’s best beaches just a short drive away from town.

Just south of Huskisson, you’ll find Hyams Beach. Home to some of the whitest sand in the country, it’s definitely an ideal place to throw down a towel and take a dip in the clear water in between reading a book.

In Huskisson, you can also hit the surf breaks, go whale watching and hire stand-up paddle boards to explore the surrounding coastline.

Stay | The Beach Studio (Huskisson) or Minke Whalers Cottage (Hyams Beach)

Jervis Bay (Booderee National Park)

Arguably one of Australia’s most beautiful national parks, Booderee, or in the local Dhurga language, Walawaani Njindiwan Njin Booderee , covers most of the Jervis Bay Territory. Home to white sand beaches, crystal clear water, high coastal cliffs, and native wildlife, it feels more like a tropical island paradise than a peninsula off the South Coast.

To explore the park in the best way, stay at one of the campgrounds, such as Green Patch or Cave Beach, and spend your days beach hopping from one cove to the next.

It’s worth noting that there’s a separate Parks Pass required for Boodereee National Park, not included in the regular NSW Parks Pass.

Known for its great surf breaks, Mollymook is the more upscale town just north of Ulladulla. With expensive holiday mansions lining the coastal cliffs, and a long sandy beach stretching around the bay, it’s one of the more picturesque towns on the South Coast.

Together with Ulladulla, I found that Mollymook has a great laidback vibe with a friendly community from holiday home owners to vanlifers. I’ve revisited several times, often staying longer than planned.

Collers Beach is a popular local surf break, with a beautiful swimming spot just around towards the golf course. This is also the best place to watch the sunrise in the morning.

Stay | Motel Molly – Boutique Hotel

A pretty port town, Ulladulla is one of my favourite places to visit on the South Coast. While it’s not blessed with its own beach, you can find Mollymook just a couple of kilometres to the north and Burrill Beach to the south.

Still, the town has some great cafes, shops and a very laidback vibe outside of summer (I know, I keep saying that!). Some of my favourite things to do in Ulladulla include:

• Swim laps in the Ulladulla Sea Pool
• Buy organic local produce at Empower Wholefoods
• Visit Warden Head Lighthouse
• Surf at Dolphin Point

Stay | Harbour View Apartments

Murramarang National Park

One of the South Coast’s gems, Murramarang National Park is a natural haven spanning over 40km of coastline from Bawley Point down to Batemans Bay. With the dense forest running right up to the edge of the sandy beaches, you can switch off and feel a world away from the trendy coastal towns.

Walking, fishing, swimming, surfing and camping are just some of the popular activities you can do in the park. Depot Beach Campground and Pebbly Beach Campground are my two favourites but there’s several other spots that you can enjoy some pretty nice camping facilities surrounded by the bush and crashing waves.

The new 3-day Murramarang Coastal Walk is also a new highlight that I’ll have to go back and complete one day.

Batemans Bay

An old favourite amongst families and holiday makers, Batemans Bay is a major town on the South Coast. While I wouldn’t say the town itself is anything special compared to other smaller towns like Ulladulla or Bermagui, there’s plenty to do around Batemans Bay that makes it a nice base to explore the coast.

The Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail includes bays around the town with its reefs and native fish, while fishing enthusiasts can head to Clyde River National Park. Otherwise, I quite liked driving the coastal route from Batemans Bay down to Moruya, stopping at Batehaven, Lilli Pilli, Malua Bay, Mossy Point and Broulee.

Stay | The Isla

Narooma (and Dalmeny)

Narooma and surrounds is definitely up there when it comes to the best places to visit on the South Coast. With the Wagonga Inlet, coastal lakes and rugged coastline, the natural beauty of Narooma is what instantly astounded me.

It has some of the bluest and clearest waters on the South Coast, appearing like a tapestry of glistening turquoise. This means you’ll see divers and stand-up paddle boarders out on the inlet exploring the water. The resident seals are a real highlight too, you can see them around the inlet and also near Australia Rock and Seal Rocks.

It’s also becoming a popular foodie destination thanks to the oyster industry, which is booming in town. Whether you stay in Narooma or Dalmeny or somewhere in between, you’ll be able to appreciate the incredibly beautiful town and surrounding coastline.

Don’t miss when visiting Narooma:

• Australia Rock
• Cycling from Dalmeny to Narooma (check out this 2-hour e-bike rental here )
• Swimming area in Wagonga Beach
• Seals at Seal Rocks
• Glasshouse Rocks

Stay | The Beach Shack at Dalmeny

Mystery Bay

The small coastal community on Mystery Bay just south of Narooma is one of the best kept secrets on the South Coast. Home to one of the last budget campgrounds, you can camp right on the coast with just the sound of birds and crashing waves waking you in the morning.

While there’s not a whole lot of town there, it’s the best place to explore the hidden beaches around the coast to the south. It’s also a popular fishing spot for locals.

Stay | Spotted Gum Retreat

Bermagui is an absolute gem of a town. As one of the best places to visit on the South Coast, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to spend at least a night there. With some great waterfront cafes (try Boneless Vegetarian Cafe or Gulaga Wholefoods), the main beach right in front for swimming, and some incredible vantage points around town, it’s a pretty spot to go for a weekend.

Home to one of the most beautiful ocean pools, known as Bermagui Blue Pool, you can spot whales, dolphins and seals as you swim in the protected rock pool. Just north of town past Wallaga Lake, I also highly recommend you check out the walk to Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock.

Stay | Bermagui Beach Hotel

The small town of Tathra on the Sapphire Coast is a pretty spot not far from Merimbula and Bega. Surrounded by national parks, it’s a popular summer getaway for families looking to soak up the sun.

Tathra Beach is a long sandy bay perfect for swimming, surfing and relaxing on the sand. At sunset time (or sunrise if you’re keen), head up to Chamberlain Lookout for a beautiful view.

But the small town is also a great base for exploring Mimosa Rocks National Park to the north and Bournda National Park to the south. Both national parks also have great campgrounds if you want to escape into nature for a night.

Stay | Kianinny Bush Cottages

On a coastline known for holiday resort towns, Merimbula has been a long standing favourite. With Merimbula Lake and Merimbula Bay, you’ve got a little bit of everything around town. From popular surf breaks to calm waters for SUP-ing, the water activities are endless.

Plus the town is filled with some of the best food options on the South Coast, from trendy coffee shops open early in the morning to waterfront fine dining. There’s plenty of walking trails, boardwalks and footpaths to explore the town on, which was my favourite thing to do in Merimbula. Otherwise, pick from one of the many beaches to spend the day, Bar Beach, Middle Beach, Short Point Beach, and Merimbula Main Beach.

Stay | Beach Cabins Merimbula

Pambula Beach

While close to Merimbula, Pambula has more of a chill vibe and smaller yet welcoming community. The small town offers some nice cafes (try Toast Cafe), but head to the coast for Pambula Beach, which is the real highlight, with surf breaks, walking trails and fishing in Pambula River.

Stay | Riversong & Sea Dreaming Holiday Houses

A sleepy fishing town, Eden seems to get a bit forgotten compared to the flashier towns further up the coast. But, located on Twofold Bay and surrounded by national parks, you’ll find some of the most pristine coastal landscapes around Eden.

There’s actually plenty to keep you busy around town, especially if you enjoy swimming, whale watching and walking. In winter, it’s one of the best places on the South Coast for catching a glimpse of the migrating whales. Other things to do in Eden, include:

• Aslings Beach Rock Pool
• Eden Killer Whale Museum
• Cocora Beach
• Eden Lookout Point

Stay | Eden Motel

Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park)

Surrounding the small coastal town of Eden, Beowa National Park is a must visit. Separated into two areas, one north of Eden and another south of Eden, it’s filled with surf beaches, fishing spots, walking trails, and unique geological formations.

The most iconic attraction of the park is The Pinnacles. You’ve likely seen an image of the spectacular erosion feature on social media. Consisting of soft white and red clay cliffs, the layers are millions of years old. You can reach it by a short walk from the carpark, but I also recommend heading down to Pinnacles Beach for a secluded, long sandy bay.

More Travel Guides for the South Coast

• 10 Best Campgrounds on the South Coast
• Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary for a Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip
• Best Things to Do in Kiama

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[…] is one of my favourite drives. It allows you to explore the Gippsland area of Victoria and the South Coast of New South Wales; two regions that I’ve spent a lot of time over the last two […]

[…] Read next: 20 Best Places to Visit on the South Coast […]

Where would the quietest spot be Christmas Holidays South coast nsw

Honestly, no where will be quiet at that time. I’d probably look at somewhere near Eden or Tathra but they’ll still be very busy and crowded

[…] try to have time to take this coastal route. While it’s not as common as a road trip up the NSW South Coast, the variety in coastal landscapes makes the trip between these two cities a worthwhile drive to […]

[…] extension: Continue over the border into NSW and explore the South Coast or on your way back to Melbourne head up to the High Country on the Great Alpine Road from […]

[…] into New South Wales just after Easter. I travelled very slowly and simply revisited my favourite places on the South Coast of NSW from the previous year. I got up for sunrise almost every single day, watched the surfers, took […]

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21 best family holiday spots in NSW

Looking for an adventure that the whole family will love? Look no further than this list of the 21 best NSW destinations for families.

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

When you think of Byron, hippies and markets come to mind. But on the town’s doorstep lies a lesser-known water wonderland; a Marine Park which includes 220sq km of state waters, from Brunswick River, and Belongil and Tallow creeks, to the ocean offshore. The marine park is particularly special because it conserves many subtropical marine habitats which support high levels of biodiversity including some threatened and protected species. Byron Bay is an eight-hour drive from Sydney or a one-hour flight to Ballina, half an hour away.

Montague Island

Discover one of the best wildlife experiences in the world on this island just five hours from Sydney, or three from Canberra. Swim with seals, get up close with penguins, or go whale watching. National Parks and Wildlife Service runs day and overnight eco tours to the Montague Island Nature Reserve, where you can join a penguin research project during your stay. The island is 9km off the coast of Narooma, and accommodation is both available on Montague and the mainland. Picture: Destination NSW

On the banks for the Belubula River, you’ll find quaint Canowindra, hot air balloon capital of Australia. Just 50 minutes from Orange, or five hours from Sydney, take a balloon ride with Aussie Balloontrek or Balloon Joy Flights . If you’d like your feet to remain firmly on the ground, immerse your family in the colonial history, from high-street architecture, to stories of bushranger Ben Hall bailing up the town. Check out ancient fossils at the Age of Fishes Museum too.

Just outside of Yass, about three hours southwest of Sydney, is an alpaca farm. And not just any alpaca farm, because these furry sheep-looking animals are stud pedigree and are great for family petting. Clearview Alpacas   also have a picnic ground with native trees dotting the landscape, and kids can learn about alpaca fleeces, knitting wool and other alpaca products. While there, stay in Yass and enjoy the beautiful streetscapes, fascinating heritage, and treat yourself to wine at a vineyard.

Visit this World Heritage-listed rainforest, just an hour from Coffs Harbour, to see landscape like never before. Embark on lush waterfall walks, like the Crystal Falls pictured, cook up some snags in the scenic barbecue areas, or blend into nature while birdwatching. Stand in a rocky cavern behind a waterfall and, as the saying goes, switch off and let the sound of water fill your ears. For accommodation, stay in nearby Dorrigo or in big smoke Coffs Harbour.

Port Stephens

Two-and-half hours north of Sydney, just past Newcastle, lies Port Stephens; a dolphin and whale watching and activities hotspot. Get up close with bottlenose dolphins (this includes swimming alongside), explore giant sand dunes, relax on pristine beaches, or munch on fresh seafood. It’s no surprise water activities are rife when the marine park is twice the size of Sydney Harbour, and there are 26 beaches to choose from. Kids can even enrol in Port Stephens Surf School .

Snowy Mountains

There’s a reason why the Snowy Mountains are famous, and it’s not just because of The Man from Snowy River poem (although with several riding tours dotted around, it’s hard not to feel inspired). It’s also because of the snow-capped peaks that trickle clear, cool water down mountain streams, the exhilarating mountain biking, and the bush walks through fields of wildflowers that have christened this place one of the most beautiful in the country. Get up high to suck this cool, clean air into your family’s lungs. Picture: Destination NSW

Fitzroy Falls

Just under two hours from Sydney, Fitzroy Falls, a national park near Berrima, has some of the most magnificent scenery in the state. The waterfalls are only the tip of the iceberg, with lyrebird singing along some of the walking tracks, lookouts that oversee the lush gullies of Morton National Park , and bush picnics by the river also on offer. Stay in nearby Berrima or Bowral to enjoy famous Southern Highlands style. Picture: Fitzroy Falls

Lord Howe Island

It’s as good as they say, and perfect for a family break. You’ll be hard pressed to find beach water as clear, or a place in Australia were there are so few cars and people, or a coral reef that’s as vibrant, or even as many activities to sink your teeth into. The World Heritage-listed island is less than a two hour flight from Sydney and you’ll feel as if you’re overseas, without the hefty admin of an overseas trip. Enjoy exploring your own Aussie backyard, with local, friendly hospitality.

Broken Hill

There are two good, no, great, reasons to visit the Broken Hill Living Desert Reserve ; the sculptures, and the flora and fauna sanctuary. The sculptures are 12 sandstone artworks which speckle the skyline and were made by global artists in 1993. The 180ha sanctuary preserves local flora, fauna and Aboriginal attractions. Broken Hill may not be just down the road (for most) but this is the NSW Red Centre, and a must-see trip the kids will never forget. Picture: Robert Blackburn

Mystery Bay

The name is reason enough to raise intrigue, but trust us when we say this seaside, bush campsite is perfect for a switch-off-and-recharge outdoorsy break. It’s one of the few remaining natural camp grounds on the coast, five hours south of Sydney, and is overflowing with native flora including banksias, spotted gums and acacias. Enjoy access to secluded beaches, and spectacular cliff headlands. And research the name at your peril … Picture: Dee Kramer Photography

Omadale Brook

Paddock-to-plate dining is a la mode, so why not jump on the awareness train and show the kids the importance of farming produce, and have them pick their own. Just over four hours north of Sydney sits an orchard that’s ripe for the picking (sorry), and while the kids are plucking, you can enjoy some wine tasting at a cellar door, or fish for trout in the local brook.

Port Macquarie

We all need some TLC sometimes, and our native bears are no exception. The Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie is reason enough to visit this coastal town just over four hours north of Sydney. The kids can plant a tree, adopt a wild koala, and observe koala treatment and feeding time. Stay in nearby Port Macquarie which boasts beaches, rainforests, convict-built architecture, camel safaris, kayaking, and Aboriginal art.

You’ve seen beaches, you’ve seen national parks, but have you clambered through a maze of underground tunnels, passages, streams and caverns? Wombeyan Caves , near Taralga, three and a half hours southwest of Sydney, is one of the most unique experiences the state has to offer. Self-guided walks means you can take it at your own pace, and camping is available, making it a cheaper holiday option.

Barrington Tops

Head to a retreat in the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops to get among the trees and fill your lungs with sweet forest air. With an onsite award-winning restaurant, let the hosts take care of you while you concentrate on bushwalks, catching the early morning mist in the valley, reading or swimming in the nearby water hole.

If there’s something that invigorates and tires the kids out, it’s skiing. Perisher is a fan favourite for its beautiful snow-capped mountains, family-friendly vibe, and range of beginners and above ski runs. Just under six hours from Sydney, or two and a half from Canberra, nearly one fifth of the runs are for beginners, with night skiing on offer too.

About five hours northwest of Sydney, and four west of Newcastle, lies Dubbo. Apart from the renowned Taronga Western Plains Zoo , the family can enjoy museums, botanic gardens, and biking along the Macquarie River. For something a bit spookier, the Heritage-listed Dubbo Gaol has the largest collection of hangman’s knots in Australia. Or on the lighter side for the young’uns, is the observatory, or the iconic Royal Flying Doctors with a flight simulator.

In the beautiful Riverina region, six hours south west of Sydney, or four west of Canberra, Griffith is known for its fresh produce, fine wines and large migrant presence, particularly Italian, following WWI and II. Immerse the family in country life at a farm stay cottage, visit the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum to learn about emigration to the area, or get up early to see sunrise on the dry fields (pictured).

Batemans Bay

Just under four hours south of Sydney lies Batemans Bay, a charming seaside town surrounded by the Eurobodalla region. Known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, ancient pathways, and fresh seafood, this is a great spot to take the pack away for a break. Water sports are popular, so the kids can roll up their sleeves and try kayaking, snorkelling and fishing. If on-land activities are more popular, grab a bike and pedal along the Batemans Bay Cycleway . Picture: James Pipino / Destination NSW

So we’ve snuck this ACT destination in, but it’s a no-brainer for a family holiday. It’s a haven for kids, with all the offerings of a major city (think ice rinks, cinemas, a zoo and aquarium, and a dinosaur museum) not to mention the Holy Grail; Questacon . Questacon — the National science and Technology Centre — offers hours of entertainment, and wilder yet, it’s mixes in learning. You’ll sneak it in without them even knowing, just like broccoli.

The CBD mini vacay

As Covid took hold and international visitors declined, many city hotels looked to how better serve locals. One of the answers was becoming more family friendly. There are now a bunch, such as the Crown , Novotel , Swissotel , which strive to entertain guests of all ages with special offerings for kids. 

Hidden Aussie beach town ‘the new Byron Bay’

Forget Byron Bay: this hidden slice of NSW paradise is calling. If you're keen to slip away from the crowds into a hippy hotspot among national park, nudist beaches, and ancient volcanoes, this is the place to do it. 

‘Fatal’ mistake I made on Aussie nude beach

I just completed the only hike in Australia where you feel obliged to get nude. Worst of all: I brought my mum...

We stayed at… Cedars Mount View in the Hunter Valley

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Secret Aussie campground that has ‘Lord of the Rings’ vibes

A "full on off grid" campsite in Kosciuszko national park has been dubbed NSW's "most insane hidden gem" after social media users have discovered it is home to some spectacular blue waterholes.

25+ Best Places to Visit in August and September in the USA (2024)

A s an avid traveler, I can’t help but get excited about exploring new destinations. Here’s the scoop on the best places to visit in August and Septemeber in the USA.

These months offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of the United States.

From the sun-soaked beaches to the stunning national parks of the Southwest, there’s so many incredible places to visit during this time of year.

This list of the best places to visit during August and September promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime!

Glacier National Park

Exploring the beauty of Glacier National Park in August and September offers a truly unforgettable experience.

During these summer months, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the park’s natural beauty.

Plus the warm temperatures make it the prime time for hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

With fewer crowds around during these months, you’ll have the chance to truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this incredible park.

You can even enjoy a drive through its variety of landscapes and you might even see some wildlife as you go.

As summer turns into fall, the changing colors of the leaves add an extra layer of beauty to the National Park. Creating a truly unforgettable experience.

San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco offers a blend of culture, innovation, and natural beauty in the months of August and September.

You can enjoy sunny days and mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park.

The city also offers a variety of outdoor adventures from hiking in the park to biking around the city.

Plus you can learn more about the city’s rich history by visiting historical sites or joining in on the diverse cultural events and live music.

Whether you’re seeking exploration or nature retreats, San Francisco has something for everyone during these months.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of this park city at its finest in late September!

Yellowstone National Park

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains you can find Yellowstone National Park with its beautiful nature and wildlife.

As one of the most renowned national parks, Yellowstone offers a perfect destination as one of the top places to visit in the USA.

Especially during the high season of August and September.

During its peak season, which aligns with the warm weather , I find the park perfect for exploring its trails, spotting wildlife, or enjoying activities like horseback riding.

It even offers hot springs, each with its own unique colors and formations.

With the perfect daytime temperatures for outdoor adventures, Yellowstone offers a variety of fun activities. Promising an unforgettable late summer escape with the beauty of nature.

On the sunny shores of Southern California, San Diego sits with its vibrant culture and endless attractions.

San Diego has beautiful beaches perfect for soaking up the sun or even trying out various water sports .

One of the must-visit places is Balboa Park. It offers lush gardens, museums, and live performances.

Plus with the warm days in San Diego it makes it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and exploring the charming small towns nearby.

Whether you’re looking to relax on sandy beaches or simply have a great time under the sun, San Diego is the perfect place to visit in late summer!

As you visit Santa Fe during the late summer months of August and September, you’ll be greeted by a city with rich cultural heritage and art.

There’s something exciting about exploring its unique blend of history and creativity, set against the high desert of New Mexico.

And as you walk through the streets of Santa Fe, you’ll be charmed by the architecture that gives the city its unique character.

You won’t want to miss a visit to the Santa Fe Opera House or the chance to join in on exciting outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Lake Michigan

Discover the beauty and endless recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan during the late summer months of August and September.

The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities along the shores of this magnificent lake.

Here are some highlights to enjoy during your visit:

• Breathtaking Scenery : Take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches .
• Water Sports : Engage in water activities like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the lake waters.
• Lakeside Dining : Enjoy delicious local cuisine at waterfront restaurants while enjoying the sunset views.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan before the vibrant fall colors take over, turning it into an ideal late summer getaway spot.

You can even visit during Labor Day weekend to enjoy fun activities outside.

Visiting Lake Tahoe offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and a variety of activities.

The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. While the nearby trails provide opportunities for peaceful nature walks.

Plus, the charming towns around the lake offer delightful dining options, shopping, and cultural attractions to enhance your visit.

September is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe when the summer crowds have disappeared and the fall leaves begin to fall with vibrant colors.

North Carolina

North Carolina beckons has a rich history with diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

When exploring North Carolina in August and September, make sure to visit these best spots:

• Blue Ridge Mountains : Explore the stunning beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views .
• Outer Banks : Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks, known for their pristine shores and charming coastal towns.
• State Parks : Discover the natural beauty of North Carolina by visiting its numerous state parks, offering great opportunities for outdoor activities.

During this time, North Carolina’s festival season is also in full swing. Making it an ideal time to experience the state’s vibrant culture.

It’s a great place to enjoy the best things the state has to offer!

Rhode Island

Rhode Island apart of the New England region is the smallest state in the US, its filled with a rich history and beautiful coastal towns waiting for you to enjoy!

During the months of August and September, the weather in Rhode Island is ideal, with little rain and average temperatures making it the perfect time to visit.

Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on the sandy shores, or enjoying delicious seafood, this big Island offers something for everyone!

It’s no wonder that this time of year is considered the best time to experience this hidden gem in the northeastern parts of the country.

Lake Placid

Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, Lake Placid offers a serene beauty and an array of outdoor activities for you to enjoy.

This village is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics not just once but twice, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts.

And as summer unfolds, Mirror Lake offers a great atmosphere for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Plus the hiking trails around Whiteface Mountain present stunning views and adventures for everyone.

In the heart of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, lies Park City, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Park City is best known for its world-class ski resorts, offering thrilling slopes in the winter and mountain biking or hiking during the summer months.

The town isn’t only for outdoor activities but also offers charming art galleries, historical sites, and summer concerts.

Whether you’re exploring the beauty of the mountains or enjoying the cultural aspects of the town, Park City offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for your getaway.

Mackinac Island

If you’re looking for one of the best vacation spots, Mackinac Island is the perfect destination.

Towards the end of the month for August, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer people, making it an amazing place to unwind.

Visitors can enjoy fudge from one of the island’s famous shops, rent bikes to explore the scenic trails, or simply relax on the beaches.

This island offers a delightful escape where you can enjoy yourself!

This popular destination in Massachusetts is a great starting point for trips to nearby islands like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

As summer transitions into early fall, the weather remains pleasant, perfect for exploring the Cape’s beaches, bike trails, and even lighthouses.

From enjoying the fresh seafood to embarking on boat tours, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or exciting adventures, Cape Cod has something for everyone.

South Carolina

Explore the southern charm and rich history of South Carolina, a state known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

When visiting in August or September, some of the best places to check out include:

• Myrtle Beach : Enjoy the sun, sand, and entertainment at one of the top beach destinations in the United States .
• Charleston : Discover the cobblestone streets, colorful houses , and delicious Southern cuisine in this historic city.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride : Experience South Carolina from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes.

These destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and adventure during this time of year.

Pike Place Market

Located in the heart of Seattle, Pike Place Market is an iconic destination for locals and tourists.

The market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can explore fresh produce, unique crafts, and delicious local treats.

And you can’t forget the entertaining fishmongers tossing fish or the famous original Starbucks coffee shop.

Pike Place Market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s an experience that immerses you in the culture of the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re looking for fresh flowers , handmade souvenirs, or a quick snack, Pike Place Market is a must-visit spot during your time in Seattle.

Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting Grand Canyon National Park in August or September promises an unforgettable adventure and experience.

As the temperatures begin to cool slightly, it’s the perfect time to enjoy hikes along the park’s numerous trails.

Here are three must-do popular activities during your visit:

• Hike along the rim trails to witness stunning panoramic views of the canyon.
• Descend into the canyon on a guided mule ride for a unique perspective of its vastness.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset over the canyon, painting the sky with a myriad of colors and casting a magical glow over the ancient rock formations.

Zion National Park

Visiting Zion National Park in August and September offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Utah’s most iconic national park.

As the temperatures begin to gradually cool off from the peak of summer , Zion’s red rock formations and sandstone cliffs provide a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures.

And don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning sunrise casting a golden glow over the canyon walls or the vibrant fall foliage painting the landscape in rich hues.

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Pacific Northwest

Getting to visit the Pacific Northwest in August and September offers the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

From the forests of Oregon to the coastlines of Washington, this time of year showcases the area’s natural beauty at its finest.

In August, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking , camping, and exploring.

September brings cooler temperatures and the beginning of fall foliage, adding an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.

Here are three must-visit destinations in the Pacific Northwest:

• Olympic National Park : Explore temperate rainforests, wild coastline, and glacier-capped peaks all within one park.
• Mount Rainier National Park : Encounter the iconic Mount Rainier, an active volcano surrounded by meadows of vibrant wildflowers.
• Columbia River Gorge : Witness breathtaking waterfalls, scenic drives, and numerous hiking trails along the Columbia River.

North Cascades National Park

As summer transitions into early fall, the North Cascades National offers weather ideal for outdoor adventures.

Hike through over 300 glaciers and countless waterfalls, or set sail on a scenic drive along winding mountain roads offering breathtaking views.

The park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting.

You can even see the ecosystems that range from old-growth forests to alpine meadows.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning fall foliage in vibrant hues of red , orange, and yellow during September.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking stretch of road winding through the Appalachian Mountains.

As you drive along this iconic route, you’ll encounter stunning views, charming mountain towns, and even outdoor activities.

• Enjoy panoramic views of rolling mountains and lush forests .
• Stop by overlooks for perfect photo opportunities.
• Hike trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and peaceful meadows.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for a road trip or a nature-filled adventure .

Don’t miss the chance to explore this picturesque drive during your late summer or early fall travels .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of America’s most iconic natural landscapes.

As summer transitions to early fall, the park comes alive with vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and a sense of tranquility.

As you hike through the ancient mountains, you’ll encounter over 1,500 species of flowering plants , including vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and violets.

Keep an eye out for the park’s famous black bears , white-tailed deer, and salamanders.

Whether you’re into trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying nature’s beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone.

Las Vegas has dazzling lights and vibrant entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a thrilling escape.

• Experience the iconic Las Vegas Strip with its world-renowned casinos, hotels, and extravagant shows.
• Indulge in gourmet dining at celebrity chef restaurants or savor a buffet feast offering a wide array of cuisines.
• Explore beyond the strip and discover the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, just a short drive away, offering hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes.

It truly has something for everyone, whether you’re into gambling, live entertainment, fine dining, or outdoor adventures.

It’s a city that’s filled with energy and excitement, promising an unforgettable experience with plenty of fun things to do.

Priest Lake

Priest Lake offers a serene escape surrounded by pine trees and crystal-clear waters.

Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this hidden gem has something for everyone.

You can explore the 23-mile-long lake by kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply taking a swim.

And if you’re into fishing, Priest Lake is a haven for anglers with its abundance of trout and kokanee salmon.

Make the most of your late summer days at Priest Lake, where nature’s beauty awaits.

Myrtle Beach

With its sun-kissed shores and vibrant boardwalk, Myrtle Beach is a place for travelers to escape and relax .

The good reason to visit this city is that it offers an array of activities and attractions for you to enjoy:

• Sandy Beaches: Miles of pristine sandy beaches invite you to relax under the warm sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Boardwalk: Explore the bustling boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night .
• Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is renowned for its world-class golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts to tee off against stunning coastal backdrops.

Experience the charm and excitement of Myrtle Beach for an unforgettable vacation by the sea.

Denali National Park

Getting to visit Denali National Park in August or September offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s wilderness as summer transitions into fall.

August is an ideal time for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep roaming freely throughout the park.

While September brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights dancing across the night sky .

Whether you’re exploring the park’s vast wilderness or on a drive along the Denali Park Road promises unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City in August and September offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

As summer transitions into early fall, the city’s pleasant weather makes it an ideal time to explore its numerous attractions.

If you enjoy the outdoors you can visit the nearby Wasatch Mountains for a hike or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Jordan River Parkway Trail.

Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from Ensign Peak or strolling through the charming streets of downtown Salt Lake City, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy!

Lake Powell

Seeing Lake Powell in August and September offers an exciting retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers.

Water sports such as kayaking , paddleboarding, and jet skiing provide endless opportunities for adventure and excitement.

Plus anglers can try their luck at fishing for bass, catfish, and trout in the abundant waters of Lake Powell.

As the sun sets over the horizon, visitors can unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening under the starlit sky, creating unforgettable memories of Lake Powell.

Visiting Place in The USA

August and September are great months to explore some of the best destinations in the USA.

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures like hiking in Glacier National Park or enjoying the vibrant city life in San Francisco, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park or the excitement of Las Vegas.

With so many amazing places to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable end-of-summer getaway.

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 25 Best Warm Beaches in Florida to Visit
• 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA
• 20+ Best Places to Visit in June for Couples
• 30+ Best Warm Places to Visit in May in USA

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