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Welcome to the South West Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc.

JOIN the Taskforce today!

We are a registered not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting tourism and attracting visitors to the region. With the upcoming opening of the Western Sydney International Airport in just two years, it’s crucial that we revive and capitalize on our local tourism assets.

Since our formation in 2017, we have worked closely with government representatives, businesses, local Business Chambers, and Destination NSW to showcase our tourism opportunities and foster collaboration within the industry. Over the past seven years, we have organized informative events for our members and stakeholders on various topics related to the tourism industry, such as travel agent packages, hotel investments, transportation. , showcasing tourism ready businesses, Western Sydney International Airport and Greater Western Sydney commissions and many more.

As investments in hotels and tourism businesses continue to grow in our region in anticipation of the 10 million passengers expected to arrive in the coming years, we are excited to see airlines and new inbound routes from countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, USA, and India.

To ensure that our region is tourism-ready and to make the most of these opportunities, we invite all tourism businesses in Western Sydney to join our Taskforce.

By becoming a member, you will be part of a collective voice that collaborates with all levels of government, advocates for the region as a top destination, works closely with Destination NSW, promotes events and tourism assets, hosts networking events with key speakers, promotes members’ business interests in the tourism sector, and showcases our tourism assets through media and interviews.

Don’t miss out on the chance to be tourism-ready before the opening of the Western Sydney International Airport.

Proudly presenting the inaugral Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2024!

Experience the best of Western Sydney with the inaugural Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2024 – showcasing the top destinations, attractions, hotels ,experiences ,events, festivals and the best of our visitor economy. Join us in celebrating the vibrant and diverse tourism industry of Western Sydney.

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Western sydney tourism awards website, join us today and let’s showcase our attractions to the world.

Explore South West Sydney

The Paper Mill, Liverpool Credit: Destination NSW

Group of friends enjoying food and drink at The Paper Mill, Liverpool.

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South West Sydney is a colourful, exciting pocket of the city with a world-class zoo, a huge arts centre and an incredible variety of multicultural restaurants. From Liverpool to Fairfield, Cabramatta to the verdant banks of the Georges River, the South West offers a diverse and engaging daycation for Sydneysiders and visitors alike, all about a 40km or 40-minute drive from the city centre. The following highlights are mostly within a 5km radius of Warwick Farm, where you’ll find the South West’s first five-star hotel, the William Inglis .

Highlights:

Indulge in authentic Vietnamese food in Cabramatta
Meet the residents of a world-class zoo
Enjoy some downtime at a luxury spa

Meet the animals at the zoo

Meet the newest arrivals at South West Sydney’s word-class Sydney Zoo , just off the Great Western Highway at Bungarribee. Feed the meerkats, or watch the African big cats, Asian elephants and Australian animals in their enclosures. Kids aged 7 to 13 can join the Mini Zookeeper for a Day program to get a little closer to the animals and learn about how to help protect rare and endangered species.

Go flying in Western Sydney Parklands

Climb, fly and jump through Western Sydney’s magnificent gum trees in TreeTops adventure park , which is threaded with more than 100 elevated obstacles, including self-guided rope courses, wobbling bridges, tunnels and cargo-nets, plus thrilling zip lines. The park in Abbotsbury, a 20-minute drive west of Warwick Farm, is suitable for all ages over three, and children’s courses are supervised by instructors.

Check out an exhibition

Take in a range of multi-disciplinary arts and culture events at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre , a converted 1950s electrical plant on the banks of the Georges River in Casula, near Liverpool. As well as seven galleries offering rotating exhibitions, a 326-seat theatre and three artist studios to explore, the centre offers onsite eatery Bellbird Dining and Bar , with sustainable snacks and drinks (around 40 per cent of the produce is picked from its own kitchen garden).

Taste your way through Cabramatta

Discover the rich history and diverse eating culture of Cabramatta on a Taste of Vietnam food tour that highlights the area’s famously strong Vietnamese heritage. Taste some of the suburb’s famed dishes, like banh mi, pho, Vietnamese coffee and more. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and scents of a bustling authentic Vietnamese market town, without leaving Greater Sydney. Servings are generous, so arrive hungry and leave happy.

Enjoy authentic Chilean dishes

Start the day at the oldest Chilean eatery in Sydney, La Paula , whose owners have been dishing up South American food to South West Sydney for more than 30 years. In Fairfield, a 30km drive from the centre of Sydney, La Paula is famous for its traditional beef empanadas and addictive alfajores (shortbread biscuits stuffed with dulce de leche), but the street food menu has also garnered acclaim. Especially popular are the completos, Chilean hot dogs piled high with avocado, sauerkraut and mayo.

Breakfast like a local

Enjoy the buzzing vibe at The Woods Pantry in Villawood, which is perennially packed for a reason: an Instagrammable brunch menu that leans on Middle Eastern inspiration. Try the knafeh French toast — brioche filled with stretchy cheese and rose syrup, go for the Turkish salmon simmit, or order the breakfast mezze platter to share. With Campos coffee and sunny outdoor seating, this is the perfect place to satisfy those mid-morning munchies.

Brunch with a different bunch

Try something unusual at The Usual Cafe in the heart of Cabramatta, which offers lunch with a difference, levelling up classic brunch plates with decadent flavours. Try miso spanner crab scrambled eggs in your croissant, order the tangy yuzu French toast or go luxe with the wagyu burger with truffle aioli. Caffeinated drinks use Single O beans, juices are cold pressed by Wollstonecraft juice business Allie’s and organic loose-leaf tea comes from Byron Bay company Mayde.

Get spoiled for choice

Spice your life with variety at Liverpool’s dining hub The Paper Mill Food , where there are four distinct eateries to choose from. Try Lebanese-style grilled chicken at Charcoal Joe’s ; feast on locally sourced meat and market-fresh seafood cooked over the flames of a hand-crafted fireplace at Firepit ; go for Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza at Georgie’s ; or order classic brunch dishes and luscious desserts at Shepherd’s Lane .

Balkanise your palate

Go Balkan at Fabrika by Madera in Canley Heights, which offers southeast European dishes served with modern flair. Many dishes are slow-cooked in the traditional Balkan earthenware oven, the sač. Try slow-roasted lamb shoulder, the chargrilled pork neck, or the karadjordjeva, a deep-fried schnitzel and cheese roll stuffed with fries. Don’t leave without sampling a glass of rakija, a fruit brandy popular throughout the Balkans.

Mix up a Mexican

Join the nightly fiesta at Warwick Farm’s El Topo Cantina , the South West sister venue to Bondi’s popular Mexican restaurant. With a playful menu of street food snacks, freshly made tacos and heartier chargrilled mains, plus cocktails and more than 40 different kinds of tequila, El Topo promises a fun night out.

Dine fine alfresco

Treat yourself from a menu centred around paddock-to-plate dining at The Newmarket Room , and admire the plush designer interiors and lush alfresco dining space looking over the striking gardens of the Riverside Stables at the William Inglis hotel. Choose your after-dinner drinks from hotel bar 1867 Lounge’s extensive whisky selection.

Stay in style

Make yourself at home at the William Inglis , an M Gallery by Sofitel boutique hotel inspired by part-owners William Inglis & Son’s revered horseracing history. Elegant and luxurious equine-themed rooms overlook the surrounding Riverside Stables and each is named after a winning Inglis family horse. Grab a pre-bottled negroni by The Everleigh Bottling Co. from the mini bar and take in the sights of Warwick Farm Racecourse below.

For some downtime relaxation treats, order a poolside cocktail as you laze by the 20-metre rooftop Chiltern Pool or book into the decadent Inglis Day Spa . Qualified therapists are ready to ease away the stresses of your week with a luxurious menu of beauty and wellness treatments. Choose the Inglis Signature facial that brightens and smooths using selenite crystals and serums, or go for a couple’s massage to unwind and relax with your partner.

Sydney Zoo, Bungarribee Credit: Destination NSW

Resident emu greeting visitors at Sydney Zoo, Bungarribee in Western Sydney.

#ilovesydney

TreeTops Adventure Park, Abbotsbury Credit: Destination NSW

Woman enjoying the action at TreeTops Adventure Park, Abbotsbury in Sydney's south west.

Streetscapes, Cabramatta Credit: Destination NSW

Entrance to Freedom Plaza off Arthur St, Cabramatta in Sydney's south west.

The William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm Credit: Destination NSW

Couple enjoying the sunset and views across Sydney from The William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm in Sydney's south west.

Arts, Culture and Heritage

Fresh Oysters, Port Stephens Credit: Destination NSW

Lemon being squeezed on a freshly opened oyster in Port Stephens.

#lovensw #newsouthwales

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A New South Wales oyster may be one of the best you’ll ever devour – the state’s extensive bivalve producers regularly take home awards for their creaminess and distinct flavour. Discover the unique characteristics of NSW oysters, and where to sample them, with this comprehensive list of some of the state’s best producers from north to south.

Oyster 101

Complex flavours and lingering sweetness are just two of the reasons Sydney Rock oysters are regularly voted among the best in the world. Native to Australia, these molluscs have been cultivated since the late 1800s, and can now be found up and down the state’s coastline.

Also native to Australia is the Angasi, a flat oyster that’s full-bodied and game-like. These tasty morsels are incredibly rare (due to historical over-harvesting), so if you find one, don’t miss your opportunity to sample something special.

While Pacific oysters are a relative newcomer to Australia’s waters, introduced from Japan in the 1940s, they’re one of the country’s most farmed varieties. There’s a reason for their popularity: slightly larger and firmer than Sydney Rocks, Pacific oysters are fresh, sweet and briny.

There are dozens of places to sample oysters in Sydney, but one can’t go past the perennially bustling Sydney Fish Market for a selection of the state’s finest (alongside everything else from the sea). Pick up a dozen and head for a bench outside to enjoy them overlooking the water.

Heading south

The southern coastline of NSW is oyster heaven – the coastline is characterised by oyster sheds, wharves, markets and restaurants where sampling freshly shucked produce should be the most essential part of visiting the region.

Shuckers don’t get much faster than loud-shirt-wearing Jim of Jim Wild’s Oysters, an oyster shack at Greenwell Point near Nowra (160km south of Sydney). The estuary of the Crookhaven River is the breeding ground for Jim’s distinctive Sydney Rock and Pacific oysters.

Travel south a further 115km to discover The Farm Gate and Oyster Shed on Wray Street and Pearly Oyster Bar and Farm on the banks of the Clyde River at Batemans Bay . Order shucked Sydney Rocks and Angasi oysters while soaking up sublime views. If you’re keen to hit the very water they’re grown in, consider Region X’s Oyster Tasting Kayak Tour where, over a two-hour tour, punters kayak the river, sample delicacies and meet a fourth-generation oyster farmer.

If you time your visit to popular South Coast town Narooma in May, you’ll encounter the Narooma Oyster Festival, an annual festivity where local growers, shellars and shuckers gather to celebrate the Sydney Rock oyster. While you’re there, be sure to drop into The Oyster Farmers Daughter , an outdoor bar serving cocktails and seafood on the shore of the Wagonga Inlet.

At Tathra Oysters try Sydney Rocks grown in the waters of Nelson’s Lake in Mimosa Rocks National Park . From here, drive 30km to The Oyster Barn , a pristine farm gate located on Merimbula Lake . A little further on, at Wheeler's Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Pambula , you can take a guided tour of the oyster factory . And at Broadwater Oysters you can grab and go, sit in and relax by the lake, or go to ‘oyster school’, led by an expert. If you’d prefer to get among the oyster action, book in to Navigate Expeditions’ Kayak and Shuck tour where you’ll paddle the Pambula River and learn all about oysters and how to shuck them at Broadwater Oysters. Wonboyn Rock Oysters is the furthest south, a 47km drive from Eden on the Sapphire Coas t. Here sample Sydney Rocks from the pristine waters of one of NSW's most remote estuaries: Wonboyn Lake.

Heading north

The northern coastline of NSW is just as treasure-filled for oyster lovers. Just an hour’s drive from Sydney, the Hawkesbury River boasts a thriving oyster industry. The Floating Oyster Wine Bar in Brooklyn allows guests to sit back and relax on a river cruise, all while sampling the region’s finest.

In the town of Mooney Mooney, the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed is a small local oyster farm supplying molluscs straight from the source. Just next door, you’ll find Broken Bay Pearl Farm , a special ‘shellar door’ offering an array of oyster farm tours, as well as the opportunity to try Broken Bay Akoya pearl oysters, a first in NSW. Sydney Oyster Farm Tours , also in Mooney Mooney, is a unique experience where visitors can don waders and try oysters right in the water to truly appreciate the merroir. A little further north, in Woy Woy the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival takes place every November, a day-long festival where oysters, food and wine are at the forefront.

Further up the coast, the Soldiers Point peninsula juts from the southern shore of Port Stephens . It’s here you’ll find family-owned Holberts Oyster Farm , where you can enjoy a dozen or so at a waterside table with a bottle of wine.

In Forster sample the produce of Graham Barclay Oysters , believed to be the state’s largest supplier of Sydney Rocks. A little further north, part of the Great Lakes area where you can surf, fish, swim and kayak around crystal-clear waters, you’ll find Brighton Oysters , an oyster farm experience on the Manning River offering boat tours and education sessions. Nearby, just outside of Taree , Stones Oysters and Shed Takeaway is the ultimate place to stock up on fresh oysters, prawns, lobsters, crabs and just-caught fish.

Fresh oysters Credit: Mark Sherborne; Destination NSW

Fresh natural oysters served at Waterfront Restaurant, The Rocks

Sydney Fish Market Credit: James Horan; Destination NSW

Sydney Fish Market, Pyrmont

#feelnewsydney

Wray Street Oyster Shed, Batemans Bay Credit: Destination NSW

Sun setting over Wray Street Oyster Shed, Batemans Bay.

#feelnsw #newsouthwales

Narooma Oyster Festival, Narooma Credit: Narooma Oyster Festival

A plate of freshly shucked oysters by the water, Narooma Oyster Festival

Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, Mooney Mooney Credit: Destination NSW

Sydney oyster farm tours offer oyster farm tours 45 minutes from Sydney's CBD. Their tours take participants on a boat ride out to the oyster leases to learn about the evolution of farming and see the current cultivation methods they use to bring you the beautiful Sydney Rock and Pacific Oysters you love.

Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf, Woy Woy Credit: Destination NSW

Couple enjoying food and drink with views across Brisbane Water at Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf, Woy Woy.

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Food & Drink

Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, a guide to southwest sydney that'll take you from brekkie to the bar.

Catch incredible art, enjoy Lebanese sweets and take a hike through a lush national park .

With October signalling the end to many of the COVID-19 restrictions we've all been living with, it's the perfect time for Sydneysiders to explore our fair city. Whether you're a southwest native or live further afield, there's a raft of pleasures to discover in the region that are well worth your time.

Below you'll find a schedule for a packed day of fun in southwest Sydney that satisfies at every turn. From first-class food to adrenaline-inducing thrill rides to gorgeous scenery, the southwest really does have it all. You're sure to have a day that flies by in the blink of an eye no matter who you're sharing it with.

START THE DAY WITH BREKKIE AT FOUR LITTLE FOXES IN MILPERRA

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so start your day well with a visit to Milperra favourite, Four Little Foxes . Currently open for takeaway only, this welcoming cafe has something for everyone on its exciting and varied menu — from classics like a bacon and egg roll to sweet options like french toast with passionfruit curd and maple mascarpone. And we can't go without mentioning the mouth-watering crowd-pleaser: eggs benedict with fried chicken and jalapeño hollandaise. Add the fact that the baristas are serving up coffee roasted by Deluca, and Four Little Foxes is a real treat to kick off the day's activities.

TAKE A WALK THROUGH GEORGES RIVER NATIONAL PARK

After loading up on brekkie, you'll want to walk it off. Luckily, Georges River National Park is less than ten kilometres away, so you can get your body moving with a view.

Despite being inland, the park's location on the river means the picturesque Burrawang Reach will have you feeling like you're on the coast. And from there you can tackle the Ridge Walk — a trail that affords scenic lookouts along the water. It may be relatively short but it'll certainly get the blood pumping. Once you finish at Cattle Duffers Flat picnic area, either turn round and retrace your steps or follow the river's edge to work your way back to the start.

GRAB A QUICK LUNCH IN BANKSTOWN

Lunch means a trip to Bankstown and your choice of some of the finest Asian cuisine Sydney has to offer. Banh Mi Bay Ngo , located in Bankstown City Plaza, has been delighting southwest Sydney with its range of classic Vietnamese sandwiches for over three decades. The secret to their success? Everything is made in house. If Vietnamese isn't your jam, head on down to the Little Saigon Plaza . The ever-popular Papparich has all your Malaysian favourites, including laksa, nasi lemak and chicken rice. Alternatively, Soju Social offers a taste of South Korea if you need your fried chicken fix.

Christopher Woe

VISIT BANKSTOWN ARTS CENTRE

For culture vultures in the southwest, you can't go wrong with Bankstown Arts Centre . Since its opening in early 2011, it has showcased thought-provoking exhibitions, provided classes and workshops for the community and worked toward breaking down barriers for people experiencing social exclusion — both artists and audience.

During lockdown, the Arts Centre moved online, sharing artworks centred on the local area. Soon, patrons will be able to visit in-person again and experience the kinds of exhibitions the company is famous for, including a series of events to mark its tenth anniversary.

SNACK ON LEBANESE SWEETS FROM AL AFRAH OR RABIEH SWEETS

Nothing delivers that sugary hit quite like Lebanese confectionary. And, the suburb of Punchbowl has two top-quality emporiums dedicated to those mouth-watering delights.

Al Afrah is the oldest Lebanese sweet shop in Australia and has a selection of baklava, pastries, petit fours and chocolates that taste as good as they look. And that's without mentioning the homemade gelato. Rabieh Sweets may be newer, but it's no less impressive. Its menu is packed with Middle Eastern treats that are sure to please the palate — whether they're a reminder of childhood or a first-time experience.

Stephanie Cook

GO TO SYDNEY INDOOR CLIMBING GYM

Following its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the sport of climbing is sure to explode in popularity — even more so than it already has. Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym in Villawood offers both bouldering (low height, no ropes) and climbing (higher walls, safety ropes), and is the largest climbing gym in western Sydney.

The numbers speak for themselves: 250 routes, 50 boulder problems and climbing walls up to 16 metres tall. Prices start at $20 for adult entry, but multi-visit passes and memberships are available, too. It's a worthwhile investment — once you get the climbing bug, you won't stop 'til you reach the top.

Cassandra Hannagan

DINNER AT AN RESTAURANT OR AL ASEEL

After such a busy day, you deserve a cracking feed. Head back to Bankstown for the final meal of the day to pay a visit to An Restaurant , whose slogan — "So Pho So Good" — tells you nearly everything you need to know. Noodles and meat are the order of the day, with a range of cuts to suit every appetite.

Or, if you're craving Lebanese food, head to Al Aseel in Bankstown Sports. The extensive menu features both cold and hot sharing items alongside grilled staples such as shawarma and meat skewers — and that's before you even get to its famous fattoush.

DRINKS AT LADY BANKS

A cocktail or three is the perfect way to round off a day experiencing the best this corner of Sydney has to offer. And, the recently opened Lady Banks at the top of the Flinders Centre in Bankstown is the ideal location to do just that.

Sydneysiders love a rooftop bar — especially when the weather is warmer — and post-lockdown we're keen to spend as much time al fresco as possible. Surely one of the only places with panoramic views of both the CBD and the Blue Mountains, Lady Banks has an impressive selection of beverages. Try its signature cocktail (the Lady Banks, naturally) mixed with gin, elderflower liqueur and a spritz of lemon.

To learn more about Lady Banks rooftop bar, visit the website .

Tenacious D Have Cancelled the Rest of Their 2024 Tour of Australia and New Zealand

Coming soon: song bird, the huge new modern cantonese diner by neil perry, is opening in august, coming soon: australian-premiere vr experience 'horizon of khufu' will get you wandering around ancient egypt, 'the subtle art of not giving a f*ck' author mark manson is returning down under to give brutally honest advice, now open: tommy panini is brookvale's new italian sandwich bar from mariah carey's former private chef.

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Southwestern Sydney

1.1 History
1.2 Climate
2.2 By train
7.1 Campsie
7.2 Cabramatta
7.3 Fairfield

Southwestern Sydney is a large residential area to the south and west of Sydney , including the centres of Cabramatta and Liverpool. The district also covers the Canterbury-Bankstown area, but not the Macarthur suburbs.

The southwest of Sydney is mostly off the beaten tourist track. The area constitutes the main road into Sydney from Melbourne and Canberra , and cheap roadside accommodation with parking is available in motels where you can keep your car while in Sydney.

The suburbs around Cabramatta and Bankstown give some of Sydney's best access to the mix of cultures that comprise Sydney.

Cabramatta is a vibrant Vietnamese and Chinese community. In a suburb where Vietnamese-born residents outnumber those born in Australia, there are plenty of authentic Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese restaurants, Asian groceries and a great atmosphere with locals selling home produce on the footpaths along the shopping districts.
Bankstown is an interesting split of cultures, with Lebanese shops dominating the area. Try and figure out which side of the train tracks you're on. The suburb and its neighbours like Punchbowl and Lakemba are often in the news for shootings, although much of it is gang-related and don't involve passers-by.
Fairfield is an ethnic enclave of Assyrian Christians. Around the start of the 20th century the area had a population of 2,500 people and with fertile soils, which produced crops for distribution in Sydney. During the mid to late 1980s, an influx of Assyrians fled Iraq and settled in Fairfield, making it the most popular settlement for Assyrians, and this helped shaped the community and vibe of the commercial area.
Liverpool is an administrative centre of the southwest and growing business centre.

The traditional owners of most of the land in the area are the Cabrogal-Gandangara tribe.

The southwest of Sydney is warmer and drier than Sydney CBD in the summer because of its inland location, where temperatures may soar to 40 °C for a few days, but usually hover in the early 30s. Winter nights are particularly cooler.

The general rule of Sydney public transport applies - that the closer you remain to the city centre the greater the likelihood of public transport being an effective way of getting there. Buses and train lines thin out in both density and frequency the further out towards the southwest suburbs you head, however for the careful transport planner, you can manage to get to most destinations without a car.

The M5 is the major Sydney freeway to the southwest. If you are travelling out from the city towards the southwest for a day trip you'll be moving against the peak, and can expect a quick run on the motorway. However, if you staying along the Hume Highway for some cheap accommodation to access Sydney, the M5 could be your nemesis. Travel times can easily triple during peak commute times.

If you are planning to arrive from Canberra or Melbourne and are flying out of Sydney early, and have the idea to save on accommodation by stopping overnight 20 minutes short of the airport, then take care. You may be bumper-to-bumper but it can be avoided if you're willing to pay $11 tolls.

The T3 line winds its way past Bankstown on to Cabramatta and Liverpool. It takes just under an hour to get to Liverpool from the city centre. The T8 South Line also goes to some South West suburbs such as Padstow and Revesby.

The T5 line goes from Schofields in North West Sydney to Cabramatta, Liverpool and Leppington.

The City Connect Bus Service is a free bus service that operates in a portion of Southwestern Sydney.

Brown Route : Operates on Mondays and runs between Cabramatta, Canley Vale and Canley Heights.
Pink Route : Operates on Wednesdays and runs between Fairfield, Fairfield West, Cabramatta West, Cabramatta and Canley Heights.
Orange Route : Operates on Thursdays-Fridays and runs between Fairfield, Fairfield Heights, Villawood and Carramar.
Blue Route : Operates on Saturdays and runs between Fairfield West, Prairiewood Leisure Centre, Fairfield Showground, Fairfield Hospital and Villawood.

-33.854 150.942 2 Fairfield City Museum & Gallery , 634 The Horsley Dr, Smithfield , ☏ +61 2 9725 0190 . Tu-F 10AM-4PM Sa 10AM-3PM . It showcases the diverse ethnic heritage of Fairfield City with an all-embracing program of exhibitions and activities catering for the community. ( updated Oct 2019 )
Sugarloaf Ridge and Moonrise Lookout , Abbotsbury . These are the panoramic picnic spots and lookout areas within the Western Sydney Parklands. ( updated Oct 2019 )
Bland's Oak , Carramar . A live oak tree that was seeded in the late 1830s. It is one of the largest in Sydney ( updated Oct 2019 )
Our Lady of Victories Catholic Parish . A historical Catholic church. ( updated Oct 2019 )
Assyrian Genocide Monument , Bonnyrigg . An Assyrian genocide memorial. ( updated Oct 2019 )
Campsie Food Festival
The Cabramatta Moon Festival is held every year on the weekend of the spring equinox (generally in September), during which the suburb welcomes over 90,000 visitors and celebrates with moon cakes, lion dances and fireworks.
Fairfield Showground – A multi-purpose venue popular for multicultural festivals, horse racing, carnivals, markets and club meets attracting as many as 20,000 people.
Fairfield Leisure Centre – The centre includes a gymnasium, aerobics studio, steam room, crèche, 25-m heated indoor swimming pool, 50-m outdoor swimming pool, baby pool, Aqua Play Water Park, and multi-purpose indoor sports court.
Aquatopia Water Park – features 10-m and 20-m high slides, the adventure aqua tower, a toddlers pool, Fishpipe and the Wave Rider.
TreeTops Adventure . A high ropes course up in the tree tops, where participants slide down, move from tree to tree on suspension bridges and enjoy 115 challenges
Sydney International Equestrian Centre – Built for the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it is a world-class event venue set on 96 hectares of rural parkland.
Calmsley Hill City Farm – A farm based attraction where children and adults can enjoy a variety of exciting shows and exhibits.

The suburbs of Bankstown and Cabramatta have many Asian style shops opening onto the main streets running through the town. The centres around the station have a market feel are easily accessed from the respective stations.

Bankstown also has the large shopping mall experience, with Bankstown Central just a short distance away.

There are many stores in Cabramatta that import Vietnamese products.

Stockland Wetherill Park , 561-583 Polding St, Wetherill Park . ( updated Oct 2019 )
Neeta City . The largest shopping mall in Fairfield, which features a Big W, Woolworths and a large food court. ( updated Oct 2019 )
Fairfield Forum . Second largest shopping centre in Fairfield, featuring a Kmart, Coles and outdoor cafes ( updated Oct 2019 )
Fairfield Chase . A small shopping mall in Smart Street (but can also be entered from Ware Street). ( updated Oct 2019 )

The southwest of Sydney is home to a great many multicultural restaurants and while cheaper and generally better than those in the city , they can get equally busy during the weekends.

-33.91384 151.10392 1 Albee's Kitchen , 282 Beamish St, Campsie , ☏ +61 2 9718-8302 . 10AM-10PM . Specialises in Malaysian cuisine. It used to be a total hole-in-the-wall restaurant that wouldn't have looked out of place in Malaysia, but has been renovated and expanded. It still is pretty cramped, but the food is as good as ever. Take your pick of dishes from the many pictures on the wall, though a must try is the deep-fried karipap as a starter. Their daily specials are also a good place to start, and Albee's is one of the few places selling Assam fish head curry in Sydney. Other branch in Cabramatta. $10-30 .
-33.9098 151.10258 2 Se Jong Korean BBQ Buffet , 8 London St, Campsie , ☏ +61 2 9787-7126 . An all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurant, with quite a wide selection of food. The lack of proper ventilation means the place can get pretty smoky, but it goes along with the dining experience as you grill your meat. The banchan (side dishes) are great too, so come with an empty stomach. It gets pretty busy during weekend evenings, and a booking may be best if you don't want to wait. $30 .
-33.89471 150.93407 3 Dong Ba , 5/117 John Street, Cabramatta , ☏ +61 2 9723-0336 . 8AM-8PM . Serves Bun Bo Hue, a spicy noodle soup, which is a change from the beef pho more commonly found all around Sydney. The noodles are springy and there's a generous portion of meat. There's another branch in Cabramatta at Park Road and one more in Bankstown. $11 .
-33.89437 150.93386 4 Pho Tau Bay , 12/117 John Street, Cabramatta . One of the best pho to be found in Sydney.
-33.89494 150.93415 5 Tan Viet Noodle House , 100 John St, Cabramatta . Crispy chicken, served with noodles or tomato rice.

Top restaurants in the area include:

La Tratt (Italian)
Candelori's (Italian)
Montagne (French)
Matsuya (Japanese)

Iraqi, Assyrian, Vietnamese and Thai-based restaurants are found sporadically in the above, aforementioned streets. Assyrian and Iraqi based restaurants include foods such as kebab, pacha (boiled cow or sheep parts), bomya (okra stew) and shawarma.

Bankstown Sports Club . This huge club, complete with imitation Italian piazza, rainforest, and train station and carriages, takes kitsch to a whole new level. Massive car park, walking distance from the station.
Cafe 86 , 4/29 John Street, Cabramatta . Try the Vietnamese iced coffee - thick, dark and very strong, sweetened with condensed milk and made with plenty of crushed ice.
Cambridge Tavern , Alan Street, Fairfield . ( updated Oct 2019 )
Fairfield Hotel , The Crescent, Fairfield ( opposite the train station ). ( updated Oct 2019 )
Smithfield Tavern , The Horsley Drive, Smithfield . ( updated Oct 2019 )

Nineveh Club and Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club are both popular ethnic clubs in Fairfield. Other clubs include:

Mounties . ( updated Oct 2019 )
Fairfield RSL , 14 Anzac Ave , ☏ +61 2 9727 5000 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
Smithfield RSL , 88 Smithfield Rd , ☏ +61 2 9604 4411 . ( updated Oct 2019 )

If you entering Sydney from the south-west (Hume Highway) you can exit from the freeway, and take the old Hume Highway for a choice of motel accommodation that should be available on standby outside of peak times. The above drinking areas are also hotels.

Brown Jug Inn Hotel , Stanbrook St, Fairfield Heights . ( updated Oct 2019 )
The Crescent Hotel ( opposite the railway station ). ( updated Oct 2019 )
Ibis Budget Casula . This renamed Formule 1 motel delivers what it says on the pack. A room, clean bed, TV, and a night's sleep.
Campbelltown

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South West SYDNEY

Things to do.

Image source Australian Botanic Garden

AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN NARELLAN RD, MT ANNAN

This botanic garden of native plants is Australia's largest. The Visitor Centre has maps and information, including about self-guided walks. There is a cafe here, a chldren's playground and nearby is the Fruit Loop Garden with bush tucker plants. You can also go on a self-guided car or bike tour, but some of the gradients are steep. There is also a mountain bike trail. There are many themed gardens and forests such as the Eucalypt Arboreta, the Banksia Garden, the Wattle Garden and the Bottlebrush Garden. At Sundial Hill there are views in every direction and you become part of the sundial. www.australianbotanicgarden.com.au

Events throughout the year include Markets at Lakeside on the last Sunday of the month, the AnnanROMA Food and Wine Festival on a weekend at the end of each season, events during National Science Week in August and the gardens can host events such as Cinema Under the Stars in summer. www.australianbotanicgarden.com.au/whats-on

For babies to 5 years Under 5's Bush Play or Seedlings Nature School is held throughout the year with the Early Years Nature Educators facilitating play-based activities and nature experiences for 2.5 – 5 years with an adult. www.australianbotanicgarden.com.au/whats-on

School Holidays Nature based workshops are held for primary school children on selected days in the school holidays. www.australianbotanicgarden.com.au/whats-on

Image source Belgenny Farm

BELGENNY FARM ELIZABETH MACARTHUR AV, CAMDEN SOUTH

Belgenny Farm was established by John and Elizabeth Macarthur in 1805 and is said to be the birthplace of Australia's agricluture. It is open to the public for special events such as Mother's Day in May and Father's Day in September. On these days activities can include live music; farm activities such as working dogs, sheep shearing demonstrations and blacksmith demonstrations; a petting zoo (cost); pony rides (cost) and food trucks. Or book in for the buffet lunch. www.belgennyfarm.com.au/events/public-events

Image source Campbelltown City Council

CAMPBELLTOWN BICYCLE EDUCATION CENTRE CNR QUEEN AND BROUGHTON STREETS, CAMPBELLTOWN

The centre has free open days on Sundays during term and on selected weekdays during school holidays from 10am to 3pm (not on Public Holidays or the Christmas / New Year period). There is a mini road circuit just like the real thing with road signage and traffic lights. There is also a junior track for toddlers, a playground, picnic tables and a free BBQ. BYO bicycles, scooters and helmets www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/ServicesandFacilities/BicycleEducationCentre/OpenDays

School Holidays Open days operate on selected days in school holidays and sometimes there are special activity days.

Image source Camden Civic Centre

CAMDEN CIVIC CENTRE CNR OXLEY & MITCHELL STREETS, CAMDEN

Shows for families are performed here. www.camdenciviccentre.com.au

For babies to 5 years Past performances have included Lah-Lah's Big Live Band for ages 2 to and Camden Toddler Proms, especially for children aged 2 to 5 or 6 presented by the Fisher's Ghost Youth Orchestra.

Image source Campbelltown Arts Centre

CAMPBELLTOWN ARTS CENTRE 1 ART GALLERY RD, CAMPBELLTOWN

There are exhibitions and associated events, including for families and children. c-a-c.com.au

Fisher's Kids is a free event that is part of the Fisher's Ghost Festival in November that can include interactive installations, hands-on workshops and live performances designed for children and their families. Art Club is a weekly workshop for ages 5 to 12 during school term where the children meet artists, explore the gallery, collaborate with other creative kids, and experiment with a range of art forms. c-a-c.com.au/public-programs/childrens-programs

For babies to 5 years Mini Makers is a workshop for 2 - 5 year olds accompanied by parents / carers. Visit exhibitions and sing, dance and play and then get arty in the studio with colour, textures and sounds inspired by your experiences. Kiddies Cushion Concerts introduce the instruments and sounds of a live orchestra to children aged 2 to 5. c-a-c.com.au/public-programs/childrens-programs

School Holidays Art Holidays is a program of workshops for children aged 5 to 12 in school holidays. c-a-c.com.au/public-programs/art-holidays

Image source Campbelltown Rotary Observatory

CAMPBELLTOWN ROTARY OBSERVATORY MILKY WAY DR, CAMPBELLTOWN

Open Nights are held during the year where the public can listen to a talk on astronomy and then view the stars through telescopes or arrive directly for the stargazing (weather permitting, check online). Families with children are welcome to attend. Please keep your children with you at all times and instruct them not to touch the telescopes. www.macastro.org.au/mas/index.php/events/special-events/public-nights-campbelltown

Image source The Campbelltown Steam & Machinery Museum

CAMPBELLTOWN STEAM AND MACHINERY MUSEUM 86 MENANGLE RD, GILEAD

The museum presents Oil, Steam and Kerosene Family Fun Days twice a year on the weekend after Mother's Day in May and in October. See historical machinery including Traction Engines, Steam Rollers, a 2 foot gauge steam railway (with rides), stationary and portable engines of all types and vintage cars. There is hot and cold food or you can BYO picnic or BBQ. www.csmm.com.au/field-days.html

Image source Casula Powerhouse

CASULA POWERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE 1 POWERHOUSE RD, CASULA

The centre has four main gallery spaces including a dedicated kids gallery. Local, national and international artists are showcased. At the website you can find exhibition catalogues, images, publications, artist talks and videos where available. www.casulapowerhouse.com

After School Art School for ages 6-9 is held weekly during school term: www.casulapowerhouse.com/visit/casula-powerhouse-workshops

Family shows can be presented in the theatre. There is also a music program: www.casulapowerhouse.com/visit/music

For babies to 5 years Kindercraften is a creative playgroup for children aged 2 to 5 years held weekly during school term and occasionally in school holidays. Make a take-home artwork through investigative art play. Book online. www.casulapowerhouse.com/visit/casula-powerhouse-workshops

School Holidays Workshops in school holidays can include creative arts and performance for ages 5 to teens. The Way Out West (WOW) Festival is held in the winter school holidays with something for kids aged from babies to 15 years in an extensive program that includes family shows, interactive installations and workshops including contemporary art, dance and more. www.wayoutwestfestival.com.au

Image source Fastlane Karting

FASTLANE KARTING 20 SWETTENHAM RD, MINTO

Young kids can enjoy the fun of go-karting at the Junior Track. the junior kart age is 8-12 years and 4-7 years can join an adult driver 18+ in a twin kart. The Drift and Main Tracks are avaiable for teens aged 13+. There are also parties for ages 8 -12 and 13+. www.fastlanekarting.com.au

Photo Credit: Mick G Photography

GLEDSWOOD HOMESTEAD 900 CAMDEN VELLEY WAY, GLEDSWOOD

Gledswood present a Family Farm Day four times during the year on a Sunday. Gates open at 10am and the farm day activities start at 11am. Visit the drovers' campsite for billy tea and damper by the campfire and hear stories told by the stockman. The kelpies will round up the sheep and then see a sheep being shorn. Learn about wool classing and try boomerang throwing. Then the stockman will demonstration how to crack a whip. www.gledswood.com.au/gledswood-farm-day.html

KOSHIGAYA PARK CNR HURLEY ST AND CAMDEN RD, CAMPBELLTOWN

Apart from being a fun park for families with playground equipment, including accessible play equipment, cycle paths, picnic tables and BBQs; this park is used for events throughout the year. These can include Australia Day celebrations, the Campbelltown Children's Festival, Winterland Campbelltown with an open-air ice rink, Fisher's Flicks, Picnic in the Park - International Day of People with Disability and New Year's Eve. www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/WhatsOn www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/ParksSportandRecreation/RLFPS/LookForParkSportsground/KoshigayaPark

Image source Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living

MACARTHUR CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVING MOUNT ANNAN DR, MOUNT ANNAN

Learn about sustainable homes and gardens at this centre that is entirely self-sufficient: generating its own power, recycling and reusing all rain and waste water, and managing all organic waste on site. There is information available and you can purchase fresh honey from the Macarthur Bee Keepers plus home-made jams and sauces. Workshops include themes such as Plastic Free Lunches & Snacks for Children, Small Space Gardening and Worm Farming & Composting. www.mcsl.org.au/

For babies to 5 years MCSL Little Explorers is a weekly playgroup for under 5s to learn all about sustainability and the environment. Feed the chickens, meet LULU the pig and BELLE the sheep, do some gardening and water the children's garden. www.mcsl.org.au/what-we-do/little-explorers-playgroup.htm

School Holidays Workshops in school holidays can include themes such as Kids Gardening & Cooking and Micro Zookeeper. www.mcsl.org.au/whats-on/workshops-and-courses.htm

Image source NSW Rail Museum

NEW SOUTH WALES RAIL MUSEUM 10 BARBOUR RD, THIRLMERE

The museum has locos, carriages and vans, some you can go inside and explore. There is also a Roundhouse with a 105-foot turntable from the old Enfield steam depot. On weekends there are steam or vintage train rides, a 45 minute trip from Thirlmere station to Buxton station and return. You can get a ride and museum combo ticket. www.nswrailmuseum.com.au/weekends

The Thirlmere Festival of Steam is held on a weekend in March with train rides to the museum and return from Sydney, several locomotives in steam, mini train rides, cab visits, live music, make and do activities for kids, Village Fairs on both days and on Sunday a Street Parade and over 100 market stalls. www.thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com/

Day Out With Thomas is on four weekends a year. Meet Thomas - climb into the driver's cab and toot his whistle with the Fat Controller there, meet Henry the green engine and visit his driver's cab, ride Toby the Railmotor from Sodor Station up to the Roundhouse, plus face painting and unlimited jumping castle rides. At the Imagination Station enter the colouring competition, play some Thomas games and listen to the Storyteller read Thomas stories. There are also steam train rides. www.nswrailmuseum.com.au/day-out-with-thomas

Image source Oz Funland

OZ FUNLAND 11 HOLLYLEA RD, LUMEAH

Facilities include Putt Putt Golf, the playmaze, jumping castle, Toddlers Area, face painting, craft and Oz Balladrome - a glow-in-the-dark cannon ball shooting game. There are also birthday parties, shows from time to time such as the The Wizard of Oz Adventure Show and Oz-Some Creative Workshops. During school term, the Funland is open on weekends from 9.30am -5pm. In school holidays, Oz Funland is open on weekdays 10am - 4pm and weekends 9.30am - 5pm. www.ozfunland.com

For babies to 5 years During school term the Funland is open on Fridays from 10am to 3pm.

School Holidays Extra activities in school holidays can include shows, themed discos and Creative workshops.

Image source Western Sydney Parklands

WESTERN SYDNEY PARKLANDS CECIL PARK TO WEST HOXTON

Wylde Mountain Bike Trail is a purpose built trail with the entry in Range Road, off Elizabeth Drive in Cecil Park. Mountain bikers from beginner to advanced are catered for with a Kid's Loop, 3 km loop, 6 km loop and 12 km loop. First time visitors should take extra precautions until they are familiar with the Trail. Those under 16 years of age must ride the Trail in the company of an adult. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset, weather permitting. www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au/places-to-go/wyldemtb/

Shale Hills in West Hoxton has 60km of tracks and trails for walking, running and cycling and dogs on-leash are welcome. The Shale Hills Dog Park is located at the intersection of Second and Mannow Avenues, West Hoxton. It has a training circuit, agility course, free run area (including separate runs for large and small/shy dogs), a terrace with dog rest areas and umbrellas for shade, a scented garden and fresh water fountains. www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au/places-to-go/shale-hills

Image source Westlink M7

WESTLINK M7 SHARED PATH FROM PRESTONS TO BAULKHAM HILLS

This free shared cycleway and walking path runs adjacent to the M7 motorway but is entirely separate. It is 40 km long with no intersections and more that 60 entry points. It is mostly 4m wide and has its own lighting, road signs and centreline. It connects with Western Sydney Parklands. It does have gradients that challenge little legs. www.westlinkm7.com.au/about/shared-path

20 Things To Do In South West Rocks NSW 2024 Guide

Discover one of the best hidden gems on the East Coast and explore the best things to do in South West Rocks in the Mid-North Coast NSW. We’ve been coming here for years because it’s home to some of the best hikes, beaches and campgrounds in Australia!

If you’re looking for your next getaway, put South West Rocks on your list to visit.

Table of Contents

Where is South West Rocks?

Never heard of South West Rocks? It’s located just over an hour’s drive South of Coffs Harbour, and the same distance North of Port Macquarie. Between these two regions, there is a lot to see and do, especially the beautifully stunning and deserted beaches. The mid-north coast is a hugely underrated area, and South West Rocks is a reason for this. It is beautiful here, and definitely worth a visit on your East Coast road trip!

20 things to do in South West Rocks

1. trial bay gaol.

The historic Trial Bay Gaol is one of the top attractions in South West Rocks which brings in visitors from all over Australia. Built in 1886, the heritage listed building housed prisoners who were brought to the area to build the breakwater to make a safe harbour between Brisbane and Sydney.

The jail then became a World War 1 prison for people of German descent. You can jump on a guided tour to learn all about the jail in Arakoon National Park.

2. Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Smoky Cape Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia and is definitely one of the best things to do in South West Rocks!

The 10 minute drive up to Smoky Cape Lighthouse is gorgeous and when you get there, you’ll have a steep hill to climb. Don’t worry it’s not too far and will take about five minutes, with a few stops to catch your breath.

We saw people of all ages climbing up it. When you get to the top, you’ll get incredible views looking out to Hat Head National Park! We also really wanted to check out two awesome beaches on the other side of the lookout but we ran out of time.

South West Rocks beaches

South West Rocks is home to some beautiful beaches which you need to check out. Here’s our favourites!

3. Trial Bay Gaol Beach

Trial Bay Gaol Beach is absolutely gorgeous and is one of the best beaches for kids as it’s got shallow water and is really flat, and a perfect place to bring your SUP and go paddle boarding.

AND you can actually watch the sunset over the ocean from Trial Gaol Beach. That’s always one thing I miss living on the East Coast of Australia, it’s so rare to be able to watch the sunset over the water. But you can at Trial Gaol Beach purely because of the angle of the beach.

4. Horseshoe Bay

There’s three beaches to choose from right in the middle of South West Rocks. If you’re staying at Horseshoe Bay Holiday Park, you’ll get to the pick of the bunch. Horseshoe Bay is a lovely little beach, while to the right you have a long stretch of Trial Bay Beach and Back Beach to the left.

5. Little Bay Beach

Just outside of town lies Little Bay, a gorgeous little beach which is home to loads of kangaroos, picnic benches and rock pools. Make sure you make the effort to check out this beach as it’s beautiful!

6. Gap beach

You can only access Gap beach via a walking track but we love secluded beaches so make sure you go check it out!

8. North Smokey Beach

There’s also two secluded beaches just below the Smoky Cape Lighthouse which look incredible. You’ll need to access them via the John Perkins track but for us, these are there beaches we’d be making a beeline for on our next trip to South West Rocks.

8. South Smoky Beach

You can see South Smoky Beach from the lighthouse and from what we saw, you can drive your 4×4 on it too!

South West Rocks Hikes

One of the best things about South West Rocks is the amount of hiking on offer. To me, this is the biggest draw card to staying here at this slice of paradise.

If you’re wondering what the hiking looks like, here are some of the most popular:

9. Rainforest Walking Tack

Rainforest-walking-track-south-west-rocks

The rainforest walking track in Hat Head is a short walk from one end of the Gap Beach to the other. It’s easy to find and suitable for all ages and takes around 30 minutes to complete.

10. Jack Perkins Walking Track

jack-perkins-walking-track-south-west-rocks

The Jack Perkins walking track starts at Smoky Cape Lighthouse and takes you to the stunning North Smoky Beach. It’s just a 2km walk and takes around 30 minutes return. Just be prepared to walk back up the hill on the way back to the car.

11. Bridle Trail

Bridle Trail is a lovely 15 minute walk which leads to Little Bay. Here you can catch a glimpse of the heritage of the Trail Bay Gaol. You’ll walk through the beautiful rainforest and on your way you should look out for the remains of the old iron pipe which used to supply water to the gaol.

12. Little Bay to Smoky Cape Lighthouse

Looking for a longer South West Rocks walk? Make sure you check out Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk.

The 10KM (one way) coastal track takes you from Little Bay to Smoky Cape Lighthouse, with a detour to The Gap Beach. As it passes along the cliffs, you might be able to spot some whales if you visit during the migration season from June – November. Be aware there’s no public transport to pick you up at the end, so you’ll need to walk the 10KM back!

13. Gap Beach walking Track

South-west-rocks-gap-beach-walking-track

If you’re looking to do a shorter walk, then you can do the 6KM (2-3 hours return) Gap Beach walking track which takes you from Little Bay and finishes at Gap Beach, rather than Smoky Cape Lighthouse.

14. Dive at the incredible Fish Rock Cave

Fish-Rock-Cave-Sharks-south-west-rocks-diving

Fish Rock Cave is an awesome scuba diving cave where grey nurse sharks can be found year round.

But it’s no surprise Fish Rock Cave is not only one of the best dive sites in Australia with South West Rocks Dive , it’s home to the largest ocean cavern in the southern hemisphere. At 120m long, Fish Cave Rock brings in divers from around the world.

Nothing will actually prepare you for the sight where you’ll see thousands of wobbegong sharks and a large bull ray just resting on the bottom, it’s something you need to see in person.

15. Snorkel at Back Creek

If you’re new to snorkelling then you should snorkel along Back Creek on the incoming tide to view all of the fish around. It’s really shallow so it’s a perfect activity for families.

15. Play golf or tennis at the South West Rocks Country Club

If you’re looking for things to do in South West Rocks, check out the South West Rocks Country Club. It’s home to a beautiful 18 hole golf course and tennis club complete with a restaurant as well. If you’re bored of the beach, this is a fun activity which is located on the edge of town.

17. Learn to surf with a pro

trent-munro-surf-academy-south-west-rocks

If you’re wanting to learn to surf then there’s no better place to do it than in South West Rocks. Former pro surfer, Trent Munro has his own Surf Academy and runs lessons for all levels and ages.

18. Go shopping in South West Rocks

There’s some fantastic shops in South West Rocks. You could easily buy a new wardrobe at Raw Spice Boutique, buy homewares at Good Vibes.

19. Where to eat in South West Rocks

While it’s obvious that South West Rocks isn’t as modern as other beach towns in New South Wales, there are a couple of decent places to eat here. Don’t expect posh restaurants yet, although I’m sure in time, they will start popping up.

Seabreeze Beach Hotel is the main pub in town, serving up Aussie pub classics. Trial Bay Kiosk is home to the best views, and the only place which is a hop skip and a jump from the Trial Bay Gaol campsite.

Sixty Degrees as well as Malt & Honey serve up healthy, hipster food such as acai bowls and avo on toast. If you’re visiting Malt & Honey, order the famous mushrooms dish. They had sold out of it when we visited.

20. South West Rocks Accommodation

Luxury – Salt : Located opposite the Macleay River, Salt features villas for that home from home feeling, complete with free bike hire, an outdoor swimming pool and garden.
Luxury pet friendly – Spoondrift : 5 minutes walk to the beach, this 4 bedroom house is perfect for those who want to bring their fur babies along for a getaway.
Mid range – Smoky Cape Retreat : Perfect couples getaway complete with a tennis court, swimming pool in stunning tropical surroundings.
Budget – Rockpool Motor Inn : Resort style accommodation with a swimming pool at budget friendly prices.
Budget – Horseshoe Bay Holiday Park : Book a cabin 500 metres from the beach at this popular holiday park
Camping – Trial Bay Campground : As one of THE best campsites in Australia, you’ll be able to roll out of bed and into some pristine flat water perfect for SUP and relaxing in.

More Travel Guides to nearby places

never-never-creek-the-promised-land-things-to-do-in-bellingen

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Best things to do in South West Rocks

Love the blurb on South West Rocks but please note that Smoky as in Smoky Cape does not have an “e”.

Unless you are from North America, Goal it is. 🙂

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10 Scenic Drives from Sydney: Places to visit by car

We have put together this list of the best scenic drives from Sydney to inspire you to jump in the car and explore a somewhere new or rediscover some place you love. Get off the highway, take some back roads, do the official tourist drives and discover some of the small villages and coastal towns in NSW; they have so much to offer.

Places to Visit Near Sydney by Car

Royal national park, cottage point and church point, wilberforce and windsor, wiseman’s ferry and st albans, berrima and bowral, kangaroo valley, kiama and minimurra rainforest, patonga and pearl beach – central coast.

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

Are you feeling like heading out for a Sunday drive? We have pulled together this list of places to drive to in Sydney and surrounds. So get to work and fill your calendar with a bunch of new local experiences.

To help you plan, we have included:

Approximate time and distance for each of these scenic drive s
Things to do and places to see along the way
Tips for what and where to eat
Local resources for further planning
Details of interesting walks in the area in case you want to stretch your legs

We are sure you will enjoy what we think are the ten best one-day road trips from Sydney.

Day Trips 1 hour from Sydney

Perfect for a weekend where a bit of a sleep in might have you off to a slow start. These first trips are all only about a 1 hour drive from the Sydney CBD.

Just 60 minutes south of the city is the Royal National Park , the second oldest National Park in the world. Why is it royal, you ask? Well, it seems it does not take much to get that moniker added to a name, Queen Elizabeth II did not even visit but merely passed by in her train on her 1954 inaugural visit. Several of the park’s most picturesque spots have gained Instagram fame in recent years, including Figure 8 Pools and Wedding Cake Rock. Sadly, both sites have seen a negative impact thanks to their popularity.

Wedding Cake Rock is now fenced off as it is quite unstable, and access to Figure 8 Pools can be tricky, with sudden tide changes being quite dangerous. The pools are in remote parts of the park, not that easy to access, so read up before you head off if you plan to visit.

scenic drives from Sydney to Eagle Rock Royal National Park

While these sites are still well worth visiting, I encourage you to find some of the other less known one’slike Eagle Rock, Winifred Falls and row boating at Audley.

If you are not an experienced bushwalker, I recommend you book a small group tour with an authorised guide. This tour is excellent and perfect for discovering new places, particularly for solo travellers.

Wattamolla Beach Royal National Park Sydney

Wattamolla is easy to find and also gets quite a bit of “Instalove” too. It gets busy on hot summer days, but on weekdays it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a swim. If you decide to jump off the rocks here, check the water level in the lagoon first. There have been some pretty nasty accidents.

Check out our detailed guide to visiting the Royal National Park

The park has a lot more to offer than the spots made famous on social media.

Among our favourite places in the Royal are the beaches of Burning Palms, Era, and Garie. These are brilliant spots to get away from the crowds. Make your way to Garrawarra Farm Carpark and follow the track to Era or Burning Palms beaches. The extra walking time means fewer people!

Garie Beach is the only patrolled beach in the park and swimming at these beaches can be dangerous, so stay where you can stand up! There is a small kiosk at Garie that is sometimes open, but it’s best to carry your water and snacks with you.

Bundeena Rock art site Sydney Bucket list

If you fancy a less strenuous visit, then perhaps head to the coastal village of Bundeena, at the northern end of the park. You can reach Bundeena by ferry or by taking the Bundeena Drive turn off. The major attractions here are the Aboriginal rock engraving site, the almost empty beaches and the sandstone clifftop walk. The community is also home to several artists, and some have small galleries you can visit.

Local Tip: Visit Bundeena on the first Sunday of the month for their Art Trail.

Royal National Park Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 50 minutes from CBD Distance (one way): 30km Best time of year to visit : Year-round but can get incredibly busy on summer weekends Things to do on this trip: lookouts, bush walks, flora and fauna Save the Google Map Reference

Check out this guide to walking in Royal National park if you want to explore more of the park.

If you are looking for a relaxing, picturesque drive where your biggest challenge is deciding where to eat, this is for you. Cottage Point, Sydney’s smallest suburb with only 52 homes, is surrounded by Ku-ring-gai National Park.

Things to do at Cottage Point or Church Point

rent a boat or kayak and explore Coal and Candle Creek or Cowan Creek
grab lunch from Cottage Point Kiosk
enjoy a degustation meal at the iconic Cottage Point Inn
visit the car-free Scotland Island
discover the locations in the best-selling book Salvation Creek .

Did you know the classic children’s TV show of the 1970s Skippy was filmed in and around Cottage Point?

After you have finished checking out Cottage Point, it’s a 20-minute drive along McCarrs Creek Road to Church Point. Once you arrive, take a ferry ride from Church Point and visit Halls Wharf (home of Pittwater YHA) and Scotland Island. The return trip takes 40 minutes and is a lovely experience, but if you have time, get off for a wander. The ferry runs hourly, but check the timetable and be sure of your pickup before leaving the pier. There are water taxis if you get waylaid and miss the public ferry.

Church Point Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 40 minutes Distance (one way): 35km Best time of year to visit : Year-round Things to do on this trip: take a ferry ride, dine at one of the restaurants, views Save the Google Map Reference

Related: Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Best Parks in Sydney

These towns on the Hawkesbury River are two of five Macquarie Towns . Governor Macquarie chose these sites for purpose-built settlements to support nearby settlers who had moved to the area to farm Sydney’s food supply. Just 7km apart, many of the original buildings still stand and it’s a pleasant walk through history.

Things to see in Wilberforce and Windsor

Australiana Pioneer Village – lots of family-friendly activities including penny farthing rides
The Macquarie School House in Wilberforce – the only surviving schoolhouse from the era
Macquarie Arms Hotel – the oldest hotel building in Australia
Great North Road – a 200km long UNESCO listed convict built road

If you would like some context or background to these spots, why not follow one of the self-guided history walks from the Hawkesbury Heritage Association

If history is not your thing, don’t worry, adrenaline is also high on the menu here!

the Indy 800 Kart Track – This 800 metres long track claims to be the most challenging in Sydney
water skiing at the Sydney Ski School
the Wild Cat Conservation Centre – small group tours available

Windsor Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 55 minutes Distance (one way): 60km Best time of year to visit : Year-round Things to do on this trip: Learn about colonial history, enjoy water sports on the river Save the Google Map Reference

Wiseman’s Ferry and St Albans mix heritage with nature, two historic settlements sandwiched between two national parks, offering you plenty to explore.

Solomon Wiseman, a former convict, was granted land here by Governor Macquarie in 1817 and within ten years had established a ferry service across the Hawkesbury River from trade between Sydney and the settlement at Newcastle. The service continued to be the primary route between the two cities until 1945 when the Peats River Bridge at Brooklyn opened.

On your way into town, stop at Hawkins Lookout ( map reference ) just outside the centre of the city.

Things to do at Wiseman Ferry

Pick mandarins from Ford’s Farm and Watkins Family Farm.
Head to Tobruk Station to learn all about shearing and rounding up sheep
Have a drink at the Historic Settler’s Arms Inn in St Albans; it’s an original stopover for Cobb and Co Stagecoaches.
Take some of the bushwalks in Dharug and Yengo National Parks
Walk the Old Great North Road – World Heritage-listed walk, a 9km loop.
Take the four-minute ride on the free Wiseman’s Ferry, the oldest still in operation in NSW.

After a walk around Wiseman’s Ferry, drive on to the National Trust listed hamlet of St Albans. The Great North Road is part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Listing. Convicts carved the road out of solid rock, a punishment for re-offending after arriving in Sydney.

Wisemans Ferry Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 60 minutes Distance (one way): 75km Best time of year to visit : Autumn for gorgeous foliage, winter for fruit picking Things to do on this trip: Pick mandarins, stroll ancient paths, watch sheep shearing Save the Google Map Reference

Day trips from Sydney that take a little longer

If you are up with the sparrows, and looking for new places to visit near Sydney by car, these slightly longer drives between 2-3 hours offer even more variety.

We have been visiting Berry regularly since we were kids. As teenagers, it was not uncommon to make the drive to get doughnuts (well, it was really for the ride, but doughnuts gave us a reason). These days we stop in Berry a few times a year on our way to Jervis Bay for holidays. For us, it’s impossible to stay on the highway and not turn off!

Approx 150km from Sydney, you can make the trip to Berry via the highway, but we suggest you do at least one way of the journey via the Grand Pacific Drive and coastal route. This coastal route will add a little time, but you will be glad of it. We also recommend stopping briefly at Gerringong and Gerroa, two of the prettiest beach towns in the area. You can save time by returning to Sydney via the inland route. The main thoroughfare of Berry Queen Street is full of shops to tempt your credit card from your wallet. A ridiculous number of homeware stores and boutiques make this a fantastic place to head to for gift shopping. There is always something unique to be found.

Berry is a brilliant spot for a meat pie, there are two pie shops in town, and the charming Milkwood Bakery always gets excellent reviews. The pies and cakes at Milkwood are delicious, but we think the old school versions at the Berry Bakery are pretty tasty too. If you would rather walk than shop, there are two choices nearby. The slightly challenging Drawing Room Rocks walk with its spectacular views over the lush green valley to Shoalhaven’s beaches and the flat but equally rewarding walks in Seven Mile Beach National Park. Alternatively, take this scenic drive .

We once spent the night at The Berry Hotel , which gave us even more time to explore the area. The hotel, built in 1863, has particularly affordable rooms and a self-contained flat which makes a great base.

Berry Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 2 hours Distance (one way): 140km Best time of year to visit : Year-round Things to do on this trip: Cafes and shopping, ocean views en route Save the Google Map Reference

The Southern Highlands towns of Berrima and Bowral southwest of Sydney have a lot to offer on a day trip. Surrounded by national parks and waterfalls, these two villages are the perfect antidote to city life. Only ten minutes apart, the towns make an easy halfway stop on the way to Canberra.

The region is known for its excellent produce; food lovers will be kept busy exploring vineyards and distilleries, truffle farms or award-winning bakeries and a vast range of fine dining and growers markets. Surrounded by national parks and waterfalls, a day in Berry and Bowral is perfect for hikes and picnics. Try to include some lookouts and short walks in the nearby Morton National Park while you are here.

Bowral is home to the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame , for some, this is the sole reason for their visit, but even if you are not a fan, this is an excellent museum and well worth a visit.

There are a couple of significant annual events, including Pie Time in June and Tulip Time in late September. There is also a popular monthly market held on the second Saturday of the month at the Bowral Public School. While you are in the area, include a stop at Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park.

Berrima is a small village established in the 1830s when explorers began mapping out the region. Only 120km southwest of Sydney, the drive will take you about 80 minutes.

Berrima Village is a lovely day trip from Sydney

There are also several charming shops, including the famous hand-stirred jam shop. If you are here on the fourth Sunday of the month, check out the Berrima Schoolyard Markets .

Berkelow Book Barn is a great reason to drive to the Southern Highlands for the day

My number one stop is the Berkelouw Book Barn ; it’s a big draw card as is the Berrima Courthouse Museum and old goal.

Be sure to drop into the historic Surveyor General Inn , the oldest ongoing licensed premises in Australia; the perfect excuse to order a beer! For more information on visiting Berrima and Bowral, head to the Southern Highlands Visitors Centre .

Berrima and Bowral Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 1 hour 40 minutes Distance (one way): 120km Best time of year to visit : Spring for the flower festival and autumn for fall colours Things to do on this trip: Waterfalls, walking trails, museums and shops Save the Google Map Reference

The bushfires of summer 2020 bought the tiny town of Bilpin to national attention, but for some locals, this has long been the place to head to pick your own apples and stone fruit. Two cider companies, Bilpin Cider Co and Hillbilly Cider, both offer tastings and lovely grounds to enjoy and explore.

Garden lovers are in luck with some beautiful gardens open to the public including:

Wildwood cool climate gardens
Blue Mountains Botanic Garden and the Botanists Way Discovery Centre
The Succulent & Herb Nursery at Bilpin Permaculture Farm

Find all our favourite things to do in the Blue Mountains here

Pack a picnic lunch – there are plenty of lovely places to throw down a blanket in the garden, or if you don’t have a blanket, Bilpin Cider Company has a bunch for visitors to use. Alternatively, The Potager Mount Tomah has the most beautiful balcony overlooking the area, and they make a mighty fine pie! There are other options on our list of nearby Blue Mountains picnic spots .

Families might want to schedule a stop at Madisons Mountain Retreat for the afternoon alpaca feeding . Finally, be sure to stop into one of the local orchids to pick some fruit (or buy it if you prefer). There are a bunch to choose from, and they are usually open from November to May.

Bilpin Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 90 mins Distance (one way): 90-110km depending on the route you choose Best time of year to visit : Spring and summer for fruit picking , autumn for foliage Things to do on this trip: pick fruit, explore gardens and lookouts Save the Google Map Reference

Related: Check out our 3 Blue Mountains Road Trip itineraries

I took my first weekend trip to Kangaroo Valley at 18; we camped in a bushland area known as the Promise Land and I immediately fell in love with this part of NSW.

At about two hours’ driving time from Sydney, Kangaroo Valley is just the right distance for a day trip. The town centre, while small, has some lovely sandstone buildings and a charming old-world feel.

Perhaps the best know view of Kangaroo Valley is the Historic Hampden Bridge which crosses the Kangaroo River. In the spring and summer, you can hire kayaks or take kayak tours of the area. The valley is also the perfect stop for some easy bushwalking. Our favourite, The Three Views Trail, starts about 20km from the centre of Kangaroo Valley and is suitable for most fitness levels. The walk will take you to three viewpoints over the Shoalhaven gorge. It’s also wonderful for wildlife spotting with regular sightings of wombats, goanna and occasionally snakes, so keep your wits about you 😉 It’s also only a short drive from here to Fitzroy Falls.

Where to eat in Kangaroo Valley If you arrive hungry for some breakfast, try the General Cafe . They have some healthy options, including several interesting fruit combinations with cashew cream for vegans. For lunch, we recommend the pub, the Friendly Inn, which has been trading since 1892. We always enjoy a visit to an old school country pub, and this one does not disappoint. The beer garden has a splendid view, and the burgers are pretty decent. If you fancy a picnic grab some pies from Southern Pines, they do a mean pie with mash and peas, although the cheeseburger pie is their signature dish.

I feel lucky to have discovered the charms of this valley so early in my life as we have been visiting regularly ever since. If you have never been, I highly recommend you do soon!

Kangaroo Valley Key Facts Time (one way): 2 hours Distance (one way): 150km Best time of year to visit : Autumn and Spring are the prettiest. Kayaking in summer is popular. Things to do on this trip: Bushwalk, kayak, eat all the pies Save the Google Map Reference

Related: Check out our guide to the Southern Highlands

One of the prettiest east coast drives near Sydney has you heading south from the city through the Royal National Park to the coastal town of Kiama. There are plenty of things to do here to fill a day or a weekend. The scenic route will take you a little longer, but it is time well spent! You travel along the Grand Pacific Drive , NSW answer to the Great Ocean Road and over the beautiful SeaCliff Bridge.

Once you reach Kiama, we recommend a stop for brunch at Otis Deli . Emily Herbert, former head chef at Ottolenghi in London, opened this small cafe a few months ago, and it has already made a name for itself. If you are not hungry yet, pick up some fantastic picnic items. Next up is the famous Blow Hole. While it almost always delivers, there are some days when the weather does not behave. Water is sucked into the cave and blows out the top of these rocks.

I have to be honest, I usually find it pretty underwhelming unless the swell is up and would recommend you visit my favourite rock formation in the area of Cathedral Rocks. You will find these rocks, a hotspot for photographers, particularly at sunrise and sunset on the northern side of Kiama.

A quick google search will find hundreds of photos of this site by skilled artists and plenty of tips for how to capture these beautiful rocks. On the way back to Sydney, a detour to Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderro National Park is a lovely way to spend an hour or two. There are two bushwalks here. The walk to the Falls is preferred (4.2km), but if you are travelling with younger kids, the rainforest loop is a better option.

Kiama Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 2 hours 15 min – via the coastal route, 1 hr 50 via the M1 Distance (one way): 118km Best time of year to visit : spring and summer Things to do on this trip: Visit the blowhole and Cathedral Rocks, eat at Kiama Save the Google Map Reference

Home to less than 600 people, Pearl Beach is a little piece of paradise that remained a Central Coast secret until well into the 1980s. Nearby Patonga, home to 200 or so, was once a tiny fishing village and a popular spot for summer and weekend holidays. The biggest drawcards on the coast are the views. One of the finest is from Mount Ettalong Lookout. A short and easy walk from the car park on a mostly flat, wide path. To the south, a superb view of Lion Island and Pearl Beach. Look to the north, and you will see Umina Beach.

Pearl Beach to Patonga Track is a 90-minute walk along a fire trail in Brisbane Water National Park. The red gums and ocean views make a lovely escape, but this is a challenging walk for most people. Be sure to wear good walking shoes and expect some steep hilly terrain. You can tackle just the part of the trail, by starting at Patonga and walking as far as Warrah Lookout before retracing your steps. You will find a list of our favourite Central Coast walks here.

Patonga Beach and the start of the track to Patonga

Where to eat in Pearl Bay and Patonga If hunger strikes, we can highly recommend breakfast at the Pearl Beach Cafe . I always go for one of the veggie-based breakfast/lunch bowls, but Charles swears by the house-made porridge with banana. If you want something a little fancier, then Pearls on the Beach is a stylish little spot that we have yet to try but gets rave reviews.

Pearl Beach and Patonga Road Trip Facts Time (one way): 80 minutes Distance (one way): 95km Best time of year to visit : Spring and summer Things to do on this trip: Walk, swim and enjoy lunch Save the Google Map Reference

Want more ideas? Try these

Sydney day trips by train
A visit to Maitland and Morpeth
Scenic Drives from Sydney

Have additional time – check out our list of NSW road trips that are perfect for long weekends.

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

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The Best Things To Do In Parramatta And Western Sydney With Kids

Things To Do In Parrmatta and Western Sydney, Australia, with Kids

I grew up in Sydney’s South West suburbs, so have spent much of my life in the Parramatta and Western Sydney area. Sydney’s South West and Western suburbs are an incredible mix of history, nature and delicious food, a perfect place to bring up kids or visit for the day. Check out the best things to do in Parramatta and Western Sydney with kids!

The Best Things To Do In Parramatta and Western Sydney With Kids

Table of Contents

Livvi’s Place Ryde

Livvi’s Place is a full-enclosed playground located in Yamble Reserve, Ryde. The reserve features formal gardens, deciduous trees, picnic shelters, large green grassed areas, barbecues and the excellent all-abilities playground, Livvi’s Place. Livvi’s Place playground includes a water pump play area, dual flying fox, nest swing, musical instruments, climbing frame and tunnels.

Read more about Livvi’s Place Ryde here.

Auburn Botanic Gardens

The delightfully zen Auburn Botanic Gardens are located in Auburn, in South-West Sydney. Established in 1977, the gardens are surprisingly tucked away in a suburban pocket between rows of houses. Spread over 9.7 hectares, the gardens are a serene place to enjoy nature. They include a waterfall, inclusive playground, Japanese garden and plenty of native animals like kangaroos and wildlife.

Read more about Auburn Botanic Gardens .

Ollie Webb Reserve Parramatta

Parramatta’s first all-inclusive playground opened in early 2019. It features climbing structures, water play with a splash play area and water pumps, an elevated sandpit, an accessible carousel, swings, BBQ facilities and excellent bathrooms.

Read the full review of Ollie Webb Reserve playground here .

The Central Gardens Nature Reserve Merrylands

Central Gardens, Merrylands: The best of southwest Sydney for families via christineknight.me

The Central Gardens Nature Reserve, also called the Central Gardens, is a nature reserve in the southwest Sydney suburb of Merrylands. The 12 hectare park features two playgrounds, animal enclosures, BBQ areas, a flat path perfect for scooters and bikes, plus a small waterfall feature.

Read more about visiting the Central Gardens Nature Reserve here.

Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre

As well as featuring six galleries with rotating exhibitions, the Powerhouse also has a pair of three-story decommissioned tanks that are open to the public as legal graffiti spaces.

The Casula Powerhouse runs family-friendly art programs throughout the year. Check out their upcoming events and workshops here .

Get more info on visiting the Casula Powerhouse here .

Image credit: Casula Powerhouse

Casula Parklands Adventure Playground

The brand new Casula Parklands has something for everyone, from toddlers to adults. Located near the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, the park features play equipment and fitness training for all ages.

The $15 million park includes a ninja warrior training course for teens and adults, toddler climbing equipment, older kid / tween climbing equipment, flying foxes, swings, on and off-leash dog parks and a fitness area.

Get more info on visiting Casula Parklands Adventure Playground .

Blaxland Riverside Park

Blaxland Riverside Playground via christineknight.me

A gorgeous spot for families with one of the biggest playgrounds in Sydney set among three hectares of rolling hills and big open spaces. The playground caters for kids of all ages and abilities with a fantastic water play area (the largest outdoor water play facility in NSW), moving play elements, high and steep landforms and hidden and confined spaces. There’s a double flying fox, mega-swing, tunnel slides, scramble wall, spinning play disk, Viking swing and a multi-level tree house to be discovered and enjoyed.

Get more info on Blaxland Riverside Park .

Museum of Fire

Enjoy exhibits focusing on fire safety and firefighting and explore historic fire trucks at the Museum of Fire in Penrith.

Junior firefighters will enjoy puzzles, dress-ups, fire safety activities and computer games.

Get more info on visiting the Museum of Fire here .

Image credit: Destination NSW Adam Hollingsworth

Museums Discovery Centre (MDC)

Inside the Museums Discovery Centre you’ll find millions of treasures and the opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

Get more info on the MDC here .

NSW Rail Museum

Get more info on visiting the NSW Rail Museum here .

Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

The Australian Botanic Gardens, Mount Annan via christineknight.me

Explore Australia’s unique plant life at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, a 416-hectare botanical garden located in Mount Annan, between Campbelltown and Camden. The wide, flat paths are a delight to follow as they weave in and around the garden areas, as are the grassy hills to roll down!

The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan has free entry, picnic shelters, barbecues and a playground with an excellent flying fox, making it the perfect outing for families.

Get more info on visiting the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan .

Featherdale Wildlife Park

The Best Place To Meet A Koala in Sydney

Get more info on visiting Featherdale Wildlife Park .

Calmsley Hill City Farm

The place to introduce city kids to a farm! Calmsley Hill City Farm has plenty of farm animals to get up close to, plus tractor rides and interactive shows such as sheep shearing, a small playground, picnic area and cafe.

Get more info on visiting Calmsley Hill City Farm .

Skyline Drive-In Blacktown

Watch a movie under the stars at Sydney’s last remaining drive-in movie theatre. Introduce kids to the movie experience of a bygone era complete with a Happy Days-style diner, spiders and choc-tops. The gates open at 5:30pm, with parking allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Tune your car’s FM radio or bring along a portable radio to hear the movie. Before you leave home, check session times for what’s on .

Sydney Olympic Park

The site of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games is now a monument to sporting legends and a peaceful parkland. Visit Cathy Freeman Park to see the Olympic Cauldron that was used throughout the games and has been transformed into a water feature that kids love to play under in summer, located next to a shady playground and vast grassy field.

To get there: Take a 30 minute train trip from Central Station to Olympic Park Station or a ferry from Circular Quay to Sydney Olympic Park Wharf.

Get info on visiting Sydney Olympic Park here.

Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre

Visiting Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Center

Get more information on visiting the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre .

Bicentennial Park

A fave for families with its wide expanses of undulating hills, plenty of shade and picnic spots. Bicentennial Park is a beautiful location that combines mangrove wetlands with 40 hectares of gentle hills, meadows, lakes, playgrounds and picnic shelters. Driving to this park is the best option but parking can also be a challenge so arrive early.

Read more about visiting Bicentennial Park .

Brickpit Ring Walk

Search for endangered frogs and learn about Sydney’s brick-making history on this elevated walk over wetlands.

Read more about visiting the Brickpit Ring Walk .

Wentworth Common

Enjoy a quiet picnic at this hidden gem of a park. Kids will love the huge adventure playground and bushland setting.

Read more about visiting Wentworth Common .

Newington Armory

The world heritage-listed Newington Armory is now an industrial arts precinct with a fab sculpture walk (or bike) along the Parramatta River.

Read more about visiting the Newington Armory .

Ryde Park Playground & Scooter Track

Get more info on Ryde Park here .

Western Sydney Parklands

An urban park and nature reserve located in Sydney’s western suburbs, the Western Sydney Parklands contains various parks and attractions that are perfect for families to enjoy.

Plough and Harrow

This popular picnic spot is surrounded by bush and features a playground, cafe, high ropes course and wide open spaces for kids to run free. The playground’s hamster wheel is particularly popular!

Get more info on visiting Plough and Harrow .

Lizard Log Park & Playground

A nature-themed playground with a bush setting, Lizard Log also features walking and cycling tracks plus barbecue stations.

Read more about visiting Lizard Log Park and Playground .

Treetop Adventure Park

Adventurous kids will adore getting up high in the gum trees with the Treetop self-guided rope courses. With rope ladders, wobbly bridges and zip lines to navigate, it’s the perfect place for kids to test their problem-solving ability as well as push physical boundaries. Kids must be aged three and older to participate, with the children’s rope course designed for ages 3-9. Treetops Adventure park is located at the Plough and Harrow park.

Get more info on visiting Treetop Adventure Park .

Located next to the sprawling Western Sydney Parklands, Sydney Zoo is home to over 2000 animal species, housed in 30 custom, state-of-the-art exhibits.

Get more info on visiting Sydney Zoo .

Raging Waters Sydney

Cool down at Raging Waters Sydney (formerly Wet’n’Wild SYDNEY), a water theme park filled with over 40 slides, a zone dedicated to kids under 5 and a sandy beach. Popular with younger kids is the Nickelodeon Beach water splash park area that features characters like Dora, Spongebob and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Get more info on visiting Raging Waters Sydney.

Image credit: Havewheelchairwilltravel.net .

Bungarribee Park

Get more info on visiting Bungarribee Park .

Bigge Park, Liverpool

Bigge Park in Liverpool, a south-west suburb of Sydney, received a $5 million upgrade a few years back. The upgrade included a fantastic free water play area. Bigge Park also includes an accessible playground, a regular playground and climbing equipment.

Get more info on visiting Bigge Park .

Variety Livvi’s Place, Bankstown

Variety Livvis Place Playground Bankstown Sydney Australia

The Canterbury-Bankstown area’s first all-abilities playground opened in late 2018, a joint project between Variety, the Children’s Charity, and the Touched by Olivia foundation. The fully-fenced playground features picnic and bbq facilities, bathrooms, Variety Livvi’s Place includes a sensory zone, flying fox with accessible seats, a climbing net, trampoline, swings with accessible seats, water play area, a climbing tower with ground level play features, two nest swings, roller table, accessible carousel, slides, a nature trail, sand play and a lizard log carved from wood.

Get more info on visiting Variety Livvi’s Place here.

Fairfield Adventure Park Playground

Especially designed to provide a play space for kids of a variety of ages, the Fairfield Adventure Playground brings the “wow” factor in spades. The park opened in 2015 after a $1.4 million council investment. With the star attractions designed specifically for teens, this is a unique playground that provides a much-needed recreational space for older kids.

Get more info on visiting the Fairfield Adventure Park Playground here.

The second oldest city in Australia, Parramatta was founded in 1788 – the same year as Sydney. Walk up Church street to discover its vibrant, multicultural food scene, or walk along the river to discover the city’s rich history.

Parramatta CBD Riverside Foreshore Park

We love this playground with its tall slides and sand play area, situated right on the banks of the Parramatta River.

Get more info on the Parramatta CBD River Foreshore Park here.

James Ruse Reserve Playground

Get more info on the James Ruse Reserve Playground here.

Parramatta Park

This World Heritage Listed park is a must see. Gazetted as a People’s Park in 1858, Parramatta Park been a place for locals to enjoy for over 150 years. It’s also home to Old Government House, a historic site and museum and Australia’s oldest surviving building. Parramatta Park also features wide open spaces with shady trees for picnics, a large formal rose garden, a creek and two playgrounds. Get info on upcoming events in Parramatta Park .

Gatehouse Tea Rooms, Parramatta Park

Gatehouse Tea Rooms: High Tea Parramatta

Enjoy high tea in the historic Gatehouse, located in beautiful Parramatta Park. Choose from a traditional high tea, savoury high tea or kids high tea. Gluten-free high tea, dairy-free high tea and vegan high tea are available.

Parramatta Park is rich in colonial history. In 2007 the park and Gatehouse building were granted World Heritage Listing by UNESCO.

Built in 1887, the Gatehouse is one of the oldest high tea venues in Australia, and my favourite spot for high tea in Parramatta.

Get more info on the Gatehouse Tea Rooms here .

Gatehouse Tea Rooms , Macquarie St Gatehouse, Parramatta Park, Parramatta

Domain Creek Playground Parramatta Park

Get more info on visiting Domain Creek Playground .

Paperbark Playground

Paperback Playground is the newest playground in the park and has some inclusive features. Located in the historic Gardens Precinct near the George Street Gatehouse, the playground is best suited to children and toddlers. Features include an accessible sandpit, swings and a carousel which kids with varied mobility, including wheelchair users, can use, as well as the ‘explorer dome’ centrepiece – a maze made of nets, ropes, ladders and tubes best suited to older children. The playground floor is covered with ‘Softfall’ pavements and there’s plenty of seats for parents and carers.

Thank you to Have Wheelchair Will Travel for the images.

Elizabeth Farm

Built in 1973 for John and Elizabeth Macarthur, Elizabeth Farm is one of the oldest homes in Australia. Inside the house you’ll find reproductions of furnishings and objects that belonged to the home’s original owners. Wander the recreated 1930s garden or enjoy a Devonshire tea at the tea room. The scones are some of the best we have ever tasted.

Elizabeth Farm runs year-round family tours and programs to engage kids in the history of the property and introduce them to what life was like during the early 19th century. Kids will get a kick out of trying to do the laundry in a tub, throwing quoits or doing some craft. Get info on upcoming events and programs here .

Carnes Hill Community & Recreation Precinct & Skate Plaza

This lively community precinct includes an excellent library with large kids’ area, excellent playground, community centre, outdoor fitness stations, gym, cafe, sports courts and picnic areas. The Carnes Hill Skate Plaza is also located in the precinct, a fab spot for kids to bring their scooters and bikes and enjoy a sprawling park that is suitable for all ages and levels of experience.

Images courtesy of Liverpool City Council

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney .

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Visiting Sydney? Find places to stay here .

9 Charming Small Towns Less Than Two Hours From Sydney

These picturesque towns close to Sydney offer a reprieve from city life with cosy markets, a slew of outdoor activities, excellent restaurants and stunning architecture.

NSW is dotted with several picture-perfect towns with miles of rolling hills, lush forests, cascading waterfalls and spectacular beaches . These small towns offer unique experiences and natural scenery perfect for all types of travellers. Resisting the pace and bustle of their metropolitan counterparts, you’ll get everything at these quaint spots from cobblestone streets and vintage shops to well loved wineries and more. If you’re looking to get out of the city, add these small towns just under two hours from Sydney to your list.

1. Berrima, Southern Highlands

Berrima is considered Australia’s best-preserved village from the 1800s with plenty of old-school buildings and shops that are still standing. Take a step back in time and enjoy a moment of pause at this idyllic spot within easy reach of the city. The Berrima Heritage Walk will take you through the town’s history from the 1830s. As you saunter along Berrima’s main street, you’ll find a number of quaint cafés, antique shops and bakeries lined throughout the historic village. Other must-do activities include the Berrima River Walk where you can spot a platypus or two and the heritage Courthouse Museum .

If your idea of an ideal weekend includes a book, a cosy corner and a drink, make sure to stop by Berkelouw Book Barn . At the century-old bookhouse , you’ll find many literary treasures and a quiet space all to yourself. It also doubles up as a winery which is a plus. Find more things to see, eat and do in Berrima here .

Distance: 2-hour drive from Sydney

2. Berry, South Coast NSW

cars parked in front of heritage buildings on the main road in berry, nsw

Berry has been named NSW’s best Small Tourism Town and it’s a fail-safe weekend getaway from Sydney with plenty on offer. Located in the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast , Berry provides visitors with a little bit of everything along with a tight-knit community atmosphere. Head to the Berry Historic Museum and learn more about the town’s history or browse for souvenirs in one of its many heritage shops. Spend a lazy afternoon at The Berry Tea Shop or indulge your sweet tooth at The Treat Factory . A visit to Berry is incomplete without a stop at its iconic Donut Van which serves delicious cinnamon-spiced donuts and coffee.

Don’t forget to make a pitstop at the The Berry Markets , famous for their local produce, flowers, breads and cheeses. See our full guide to Berry here .

Distance: 2 hour drive from Sydney

3. Bowral , Southern Highlands

If you can’t get enough of Bridgerton , you’ll want to plan a trip to Bowral ASAP. The picture-perfect town could be from the Regency era and offers exceptionally Instagrammable cafés , cool-climate wineries and excellent boutique shops . Find your next read at Plantation along with brunch or enjoy high tea at Your Vintage Occasion — a cafe plus vintage emporium and antique market . Lookouts and walking trails at Mount Gibraltar Reserve, Corbett Gardens and a picnic at Cherry Tree Walk are also worth exploring. Here’s all you need to know about Bowral .

Distance: 1 hour, 45-minute drive from Sydney

4. Wollombi, Hunter Valley

Located 29 kilometres southwest of Cessnock, Wollombi might be the Hunter Valley’s best-kept secret. The historic town is a maze of well-preserved streets, pretty cottages and fine country pubs. The town will also throw you back to the 19th century with its magnificent architecture . Head to St Michael’s Church, St John’s Church and the Wollombi Endeavour Museum for a little glimpse of the past. If you’re visiting Australia’s oldest wine region , make sure to stop by its many wine shops.

The Undercliff Winery comes highly recommended for some of the best wine tastings in the region. If you’re visiting around Easter, make sure to stick around for the Wollombi markets , popular for their cheese, jams, breads and of course, wine.

5. Leura, Blue Mountains

a waterfall in the town of leura in the blue mountains

Leura is a small town just east of Katoomba and is often hailed as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Blue Mountains. The town offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor attractions to choose from. Head for brunch to the Instagram-famous Sorensen’s Glasshouse or get your fill of Mediterranean cuisine at Leura Garage .

Take a leisurely stroll down the expansive Everglades Gardens which beautifully blend the Australian bush with European-style landscapes or just walk around taking in the sights. Some lookouts and walks to add to your list: Leura Cascades, Gordon Falls, Leura Forest, Sublime Point and Jamison Lookout . There are heaps of warm and pleasant cafes lining the main street and a distinct Edwardian-style charm to the village.

Distance: 1.5-hour drive from Sydney

6. St Albans, Hawkesbury

The drive to St Albans is as pretty as the town itself. Passing through the outer suburb of Dural, you’ll travel along the Old Northern Road to the village. Here you can have lunch at the delightful Settlers Arms Inn , nestled between mountains and valleys, it serves both amazing pub grub and genuinely great views. The Maltings Mall offers plenty of theatre, entertainment and dining options. Water enthusiasts will want to add Stanborough Lakes to their list for sailing, rowing, and other activities, a beautiful 126-acre countryside park with two lakes.

7. Blackheath, Blue Mountains

The quiet town of Blackheath is another gem in the Blue Mountains which is especially lovely during spring and autumn . And all the best things in the village are free. Anchored by stunning lookouts, from Govetts Leap to Anvil Rock , Blackheath is the place to be for those who love being out amongst nature. Lined along its beautiful streets are a number of cafes and galleries and the village also offers a great local shopping scene. The Grand Canyon Track is an excellent bushwalk to add to your list with rainforests, glow worms and waterfalls.

8. Mittagong, Southern Highlands

Mittagong is a relatively underrated destination compared to the likes of Berry and Bowral but it’s one of our favourite small-town escapes in NSW. The heritage town is packed with sandstone cottages , lovely walking trails, local art galleries and very good wineries. Check out the Box Vale Walking track that follows a historic railway line out the back of Mittagong, discover the many heritage buildings splattered around town, or explore local art at Sturt Gallery.

9. Terrigal, Central Coast

While there’s no dearth of stunning beaches in Sydney , if you’re looking to get away from the maddening crowds, Terrigal on the Central Coast is an easily accessible town to visit from Sydney. Expect sandy beaches , exciting nightlife and plenty of underwater adventures. Check out the picturesque Terrigal Beach , the Terrigal Haven , a small, sheltered cove across the main beach and its local markets by the beach. Also recommended is The Skillion , a local landmark with spectacular, gold-from-the-sun views of the town. The Avoca Beach Theatre built in 1951 and famous for its old-world charm is also a must-visit.

Distance: 1.5 hour drive from Sydney

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AUSTRALIA , SYDNEY · January 22, 2024 Last Updated on March 11, 2024

10 GORGEOUS SMALL TOWNS TO VISIT NEAR SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

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New South Wales, Australia, is a state filled with postcard-worthy beaches, lush national parks, and iconic tourist destinations. The state’s most famous destination is, of course, Sydney! Sydney is the capital city of New South Wales and Australia’s most populated and most well-known city, making it a popular addition to anyone’s Australia travel itinerary.

While Sydney is definitely worth a visit, the state of New South Wales is home to so many other breathtaking gems that many travelers don’t even know about! Here are 10 gorgeous small towns to visit that are only a few hours or less from Sydney.

These gorgeous small towns often slip under the radar of most tourists, though their natural beauty and laid-back charm are undeniable. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city or a weekend getaway, these small towns are sure to have a massive impact on your love for Australia!

Best Towns To Visit Near Sydney, Australia

1) blackheath.

Located in Blue Mountains National Park just west of Sydney, Blackheath consists of a few small streets scattered with antique shops, quaint cafes, and historic buildings.

It’s just a 15-minute drive from Katoomba, the main tourist town of the Blue Mountains. Though the Blue Mountains are one of Sydney’s most popular day trips, most tourists don’t venture beyond Katoomba. So Blackheath town and all its surrounding hikes remain uncrowded and peaceful.

Blackheath is worth visiting due to its spectacular hikes and viewpoints that sit just outside the town center. Govetts Leap Lookout and Evans Lookout offer epic views of the sunrise over the surrounding valleys, whereas Mount Blackheath Lookout offers the best sunset views.

If you’re looking to get moving and immerse yourself in the natural world, Blackheath has some of the best hikes in the Blue Mountains . Pulpit Rock Walking Track, Perrys Lookdown, and Hanging Rock Trail all offer amazing views of the dramatic cliffs, rock formations, valleys, and Blue Mountains forests.

Best Tours In The Blue Mountains

Discover the Blue Mountains UNESCO World Heritage on an ex-army Land Rover tour . Experience the adventure and stunning views on this day tour.
Explore the Blue Mountains on a group tour , away from crowds. See the Three Sisters, Wentworth Falls, and Featherdale Wildlife Park.
Visit the Blue Mountains on a self-guided electric bike ride from Blackheath. Discover the Burramoko trail and Hanging Rock on a scenic forest adventure.

Best Places To Stay Near Blackheath

Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges – This luxury hotel offers guests access to a full-service spa and has 28 rooms all of which have premium bedding and fireplaces.
Chalets at Blackheath – Located close to Evans Lookout, this lodge offers luxury studios, which can sleep up to two people.
Kyah Hotel – This luxury hotel is just a two-minute walk from Blackheath Golf Course and close to the Keith Rowe Gallery and Mount Victoria Railway Museum.
Blackheath Motor Inn – With family rooms that can sleep up to four people, this hotel is ideal for bigger group trips or family stays.

2) Huskisson

As the main tourist town in Jervis Bay, Huskisson is home to some of the best beaches in New South Wales, and possibly all of Australia! Famous for its silky white sand, Jervis Bay is just a 2-hour drive south of Sydney and has plenty of cottages, campgrounds and holiday rentals for those in search of a tranquil, tropical getaway.

There are a few small towns in the Jervis Bay Area, with Huskisson as the main activity hub. Here, you can grab brunch at a local cafe, visit the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum to learn about the local history and culture, book a whale-watching tour in winter, or rent paddle boards and kayaks.

The most beautiful place near Huskisson is Hyams Beach, which is often rated one of Australia’s best beaches and is known to have some of the whitest sand in the world.

Hyams Beach can get pretty busy, so to escape the crowds, just stroll along the White Sands Walk that runs along the length of the coastline. Heading north from Hyams Beach, you’ll pass several other less touristy beaches that sport the same brilliant white sand and calm turquoise water as Hyams.

You could even head further south along the Jervis Bay Peninsula to Booderee National Park and find more white-sand beaches that offer amazing snorkeling and camping.

Best Tours From Huskisson

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Jervis Bay Marine Park on a 2-hour cruise , where you can spot dolphins and admire the white sand beaches.
Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise along Currambene River in Jervis Bay while spotting native wildlife and indulging in your own food and drinks.
Take a boat ride to see dolphins, stroll along the white sands of Hymas Beach, and enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch.

Best Places To Stay Near Huskisson

Paperbark Camp – This riverfront hotel offers guests a free breakfast and also has a lazy river. The accommodation is in luxury tents with balcony areas and is perfect for adventurers.
Jervis Bay Motel – Located just a four-minute walk from Jervis Bay and Jervis Marine Park, this hotel is situated in a great location to explore the local area. The hotel offers rooms with balconies, kitchenettes, ocean views and two bedrooms.
Dolphin Shores – Situated near the beach, this hotel is close to the Cape St George Lighthouse and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse.
Jervis Bay Holiday Park – This family-friendly holiday park has lots of accommodation options from two-bedroom villas to waterfront apartments. These villas and apartments can sleep between four and eight people, ideal for a girl’s getaway or bachelorette party.

3) Nelson Bay

This gem of the Central Coast has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in wildlife, surfing, hiking, bar-hopping, adventuring, or relaxing. Nelson Bay and the surrounding townships of Shoal Bay, Anna Bay, Fingal Bay, and more all make up the pristine coastal area of Port Stephens.

Located just north of Newcastle, Nelson Bay is a lazy harbor town known for its delicious seafood, serene energy, and abundance of outdoor activities.

Wildlife lovers can head to Tilligerry Habitat to go bird-watching and see soldier crabs scuttle along the golden sand, or you can go whale-watching or dolphin-watching on a boat cruise.

Nelson Bay is also surrounded by countless dazzling beaches and coastal walks where surfers and hikers can drift into a state of bliss. Zenith Beach is one of the best surf spots in the area, and the Tomaree Head Summit Walk offers seriously gorgeous views of the rugged coastline and offshore islands. Hike Tomaree Mountain before sunrise for the best morning light!

Best Tours From Nelson Bay

Spend the morning snorkeling in Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park . Bring your own gear or use the onboard equipment to search for marine life in the blue waters of Port Stephens.
Experience the beauty of Port Stephens on a full-day tour and get up close with wild dolphins on a cruise. Take a 4WD tour of the massive dunes at Stockton Beach and enjoy an exciting sandboarding adventure back down.

Best Places To Stay Near Nelson Bay

Luxury nelson bay hotels.

Hotel Nelson – Complete with one, two and studio apartments, this hotel has plenty of room types for between two and five people.
Anchorage Port Stephens – Complete with two outdoor swimming pools, free parking, a poolside bar and beachfront dining. The hotel has 80 rooms complete with balconies or patios.
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort – This luxury spa aparthotel is a short walk to Salamander Bay Square and Toboggan Hill Park. The hotel has a mix of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

Mid-Range Nelson Bay Hotels

Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites – Just a short walk from Nelson Bay Golf Club and d’Albora Marinas Nelson Bay, this hotel is a great place to stay and visit the local area. The hotel has a mix of hotel room style rooms to one and two-bedroom apartments.
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay – Located near Shoal Bay Beach and the Tomaree National Park, this hotel has two-bedroom deluxe apartments, studios and three-bedroom apartments that can sleep up to six people.
The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay – Perfect for larger groups of travelers, this hotel has rooms that sleep up to five people.

4) Stanwell Park

With the cerulean waves of the Pacific framed by the towering hills of the Illawarra Escarpment, Stanwell Park might be one the most scenic towns in New South Wales. Situated on the coast just south of Sydney’s Royal National Park, Stanwell Park is a tiny residential town with a few shops and cafes.

But it’s the beautiful nature that makes this town worth visiting! Stanwell Park’s beach is a haven for surfing and sunbathing, and it’s surrounded by hills that offer panoramic views. For the best views of Stanwell Park drive 5 minutes north of town to Bald Hill, a grassy hilltop that overlooks the beach, town, and rainforest.

The mountains outside Stanwell Park also have some great hiking trails such as the Wodi Wodi Track . Just south of Stanwell Park, you can also find the Sea Cliff Bridge, an impressive landmark that makes for epic drone photos!

Best Places To Stay Near Stanwell Park

Headlands Austinmer Beach – Located close to Austinmer Beach, Sharky Beach and Little Austinmer Beach, this is a great accommodation option within walking distance of some great things to do and see.
Airconditioned Apartment – This one-bedroom apartment can sleep up to four people. It is located close to the Garawarra State Conservation Area and the Symbio Wildlife Park.
Stanwell Tops Studio – This 323 sq ft studio apartment is located within a five-minute walk of the Garawarra State Conservation Area. The studio has a queen bed and a sofa/futon, sleeping up to four people.

5) Narrawallee

About three hours south of Sydney on the South Coast of New South Wales, Narrawallee is the perfect weekend getaway from the city. This small town is popular among Sydney locals who like to escape the hustle and bustle over the holidays, and you’ll find lots of cute Airbnbs, cabins, caravan parks, cafes and coffee shops.

Narrawallee Inlet is the crown jewel of the town. With swirling sapphire waters surrounded by golden sands and rippling waves, people of all ages flock here to swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, surf, and relax on the beach.

To the south side of the inlet is Narrawallee Beach, a stunning South Coast beach framed with grassy picnic areas. For more adventures, you could continue south along the coast and stop at Mollymook Beach as well, or you could drive 10 minutes inland to explore the historic and charming town of Milton.

Best Places To Stay Near Narrawallee

Luxury narrawallee hotels.

Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook – Just a short walk from Mollymook Beach and Narrawallee Beach, this hotel has an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers and an onsite spa.
Mollymook Shores Motel – Located in Mollymook, this hotel has studio suites, ocean view rooms, twin rooms and family rooms, perfect for a girl’s getaway or a couple’s weekend away.
Bannisters Pavilion Mollymook – This Mollymook resort is located near the beach. The hotel also has a poolside bar, a rooftop terrace and an onsite spa.

Mid-Range Narrawallee Hotels

Allure on Ocean Motel – Complete with twin rooms, studios, family studios and sea view rooms, this hotel can sleep between two and four people in one room.
Motel Molly – This boutique hotel has two-bedroom apartments, oceanside balcony suites, garden suites, and three-bedroom split-level apartments. Ideal for a longer trip or a large group getaway.

Lawson is another hidden gem of the Blue Mountains! You can reach this quaint rural town in about 1.5 hours driving west of the Sydney CBD. Lawson, like Blackheath, is often overlooked by travelers who prefer to start their exploration of the Blue Mountains in Katoomba.

With just a tiny town center, you only need a few hours in Lawson. But the few local businesses that thrive there are extremely high-quality. For example, Black Cockatoo Bakery is a small takeaway shop that sells freshly made pastries and coffees. Be sure to get here early otherwise, the buttery chocolate croissants will have sold out!

Lawson is also the starting point for a few lovely Blue Mountains walks and lookouts. The absolute highlight of the area is the South Lawson Waterfall Circuit. This leisurely loop walk snakes through the lush rainforest and passes several photo-worthy waterfalls, making it the perfect rainy day activity.

If you’re staying in Lawson overnight, consider visiting Cataract Falls along the waterfall circuit walk after dark to see the famous Blue Mountains glow worms.

Best Places To Stay Near Lawson

Luxury blue mountains hotels.

Old Leura Dairy, The Straw Bale House – This five-bedroom home can sleep up to 11 people, making it ideal for a girl’s getaway, bachelorette party, or large family getaway. The home also has a hot tub and fireplace.
Old Leura Dairy, The Workers Cottage – With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this is a great option for up to six people. The charming 1920s cottage has quaint features and handmade furniture.
Silvermere – Located in Wentworth Falls, this hotel has individually furnished rooms that can sleep up to three people. The hotel also has an 18-hole golf course, a terrace, and a garden.

Mid-Range Blue Mountains Hotels

Falls Mountain Retreat – With one and two-bedroom apartments, this hotel can sleep up to six people in one room. The hotel has 35 rooms with fireplaces and espresso makers.
Fairmont Resort and Spa Blue Mountains – Located near Sublime Point, this hotel has an 18-hole golf course, a terrace and a coffee shop. There are also three onsite restaurants and a spa.
Leura Gardens Resort – Located in Leura, this hotel is close to the Everglades Historic House & Gardens and Leura Golf Club. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and barbecue grills.

7) Thirroul

Nestled in between Sydney and the city of Wollongong , Thirroul is another one of the best rural towns to visit in New South Wales. Though Thirroul is small, there is a lot happening here. The town center is packed with adorable cafes, international restaurants, trendy bars, and enticing surf shops.

Thirroul Beach is an incredible place for a swim, surf, picnic, or bike ride. Thirroul is actually the start of an epic coastal bike trail that continues all the way down the coast for 15km to Wollongong.

Another way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Thirroul is by heading inland to the hiking trails of the Illawarra Escarpment. The Sublime Trail is a short but very steep ascent up the mountain that ends with fantastic views of the coastline.

Best Places To Stay Near Thirroul

Comfort Inn Towradgi – This suburban Wollongong hotel in Fairy Meadow has a terrace, a playground and a bar. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and free self-parking.
Headlands Austinmer Beach – These apartments have options for two bedrooms, studios, and one-bedroom apartments. Many apartments have ocean-view rooms and can sleep between six and two people.
Southview Boutique Guesthouse – This guest house is located in Bulli and is close to Sandon Point Beach and Thirroul Beach. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and free self-parking.

8) Bundeena

As the main town in the Royal National Park , Bundeena is an excellent place to begin any explorations of Australia’s oldest national park. Bundeena is tiny and only has a few shops and cafes near the water. But it has lots of holiday rentals and is conveniently located near the best natural attractions in the area.

Bundeena is most commonly visited as a starting point for bush walks and camping adventures in the Royal National Park. The epic Coast Track, which covers the entire coastal edge of the park, starts just next to Bundeena. Even if you just hike small sections of the Coast Track, you can see unique natural landmarks like the Wedding Cake Rock, the Balconies Rock Formations, the Figure 8 Pools, Curracurrong Falls, and Garie Beach.

Sydney day trippers may also visit Bundeena to just hang around town and enjoy the fabulous beaches such as Jibbon Beach. Sydney’s southernmost coastal suburb, Cronulla, has a small ferry that runs to Bundeena daily. This makes a fun little excursion from the city where you can spend the day beach-hopping and exploring the beauty of Bundeena and the Royal National Park.

Best Tours From Bundeena

This luxurious tour will take you through the world’s second-oldest national park, the Royal National Park.

Best Places To Stay Near Bundeena

Cronulla Motor Inn – Located in Cronulla, a neighborhood of Sydney, this hotel is close to Wanda Beach, Bass, and Flinders Point.
Quest Cronulla Beach – With 60 individually furnished rooms, this hotel has a room option for everyone sleeping up to six people in a two-bedroom apartment. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, free self-parking and a gym.
Rydges Cronulla Beachside – Located in Cronulla and close to the beach and Gunnamatta Bay. The hotel has a mixture of one-bedroom suites, double rooms, twin rooms, and standard rooms.

9) Robertson

The Southern Highlands is an enchanting rural area southwest of Sydney that features rolling green hills, antique shops, wineries, and waterfalls. There are several inviting little towns in the Southern Highlands, with Robertson being a centrally-located and inviting destination.

Robertson’s main street has a handful of classic Aussie pubs, bakeries, and eateries, and there are some cool local shops and vintage secondhand stores to check out.

The natural world is flourishing all around Robertson as well. Visit the colossal Belmore Falls to see the freshwater tumble down into the green valley below. Belmore Falls is just a short, 10-minute drive from Robertson. The Hindmarsh Lookout offers the best views of the falls, and you can even drive right up to the top of the falls as well.

Other nearby waterfalls worth visiting include Carrington Falls and the many cascades of Macquarie Pass National Park.

Best Places To Stay Near Robertson

The Robertson Hotel – This guesthouse in Robertson has a garden, an outdoor swimming pool, free self-parking and a fireplace in the lobby.
Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa – Located in Bowral, this hotel is close to the Bowral Golf Course, Corbett Gardens and Sturt Gallery. The hotel offers free continental breakfast, a terrace and a garden.
Luxurious, Cosy Apartment – This two-bedroom apartment has a king bed, two twin beds, a spa tub and a fireplace.
The Laurels B&B Kangaroo Valley – This adults-only bed and breakfast in Barrengarry has a free breakfast and free self-parking. All guestrooms have thoughtful touches throughout and premium bedding.

10) Forster

Around 3-4 hours north of Sydney on the Central Coast, you’ll find Forster, a tiny township surrounded by pristine coastal beauty. Complete with rugged rocky cliffs and vibrant teal waters, this hidden paradise is a convenient stop on a road trip from Sydney up to Byron Bay.

Forster Beach, Burgess Beach, and Nine Mile Beach offer the quintessential New South Wales beach experience full of surfing, swimming, and sandy strolls. Wallis Lake is another gorgeous spot where calm, clean water is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. Sunrises are also spectacular over Wallis Lake as the natural morning hues reflect in the lake’s glassy surface.

For more adventures near Forster, continue further south to Booti Booti National Park where you can camp, hike, and swim at Shelly Beach, Blueys Beach, or Boomerang Beach.

Best Places To Stay Near Forster

Lakes and Ocean Hotel Forster – Located just a nine-minute walk from Forster Marina and Pebbly Beach, this hotel offers guests a cooked-to-order breakfast.
Hotel Forster – This hotel has 28 rooms, including twin rooms, two-bedroom apartments, studios and queen rooms.
The Dorsal Boutique Hotel – Just a five-minute walk from Pebbly Beach, this hotel offers rooms with balconies and beach views. The hotel is near The Sanctuary and Wallis Island Nature Reserve.

Best Towns To Visit Near Sydney Wrap Up

I hope I’ve inspired you to visit some of these gorgeous small towns during your visit to Sydney! There are so many natural wonders and charming local businesses just waiting to be explored, and you can really gain valuable insights into the lifestyle of New South Wales by venturing outside the city. Sydney is incredible, but it only scratches the surface of how stunning and inviting New South Wales really is!

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit these towns from Sydney, Australia. If you have any questions or advice to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.

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Underrated Sydney location you need to visit

It is probably one of the most underrated suburbs in New South Wales, but this thriving location has more to offer than you may think.

Penrith is probably one of the most underrated suburbs in New South Wales, but this thriving location has more to offer than you may think.

The Western Sydney suburb is known as the gateway to the Blue Mountains and if you’re seeking a little getaway, perhaps away from the hustle and bustle of inner-Sydney, 48 hours in Penrith is all you need.

It may not be your obvious first choice, but my recent stay at the newly revamped $110 million Pullman hotel was a pleasant surprise. And it also happens to be super close to a bunch of local activities.

It opened its doors in August 2023, making its debut as the first five-star hotel and conference centre in the area.

The Pullman Sydney Penrith opened its doors in August 2023, making its debut as the first five-star hotel and conference centre in western Sydney.

You can take train from Central or drive, with Accor property less than 50 minutes from the CBD.

Either way, you can sit back and relax as both options tend to be moving against the traffic and congestion the further out west you go.

The moment you step foot into The Pullman you’re immediately drawn to its stunning and spacious lobby, which incorporates a swank Tori Bar and cafe lounge.

The $110 million hotel was five years in the making.

The sweeping central staircase takes you all the way to the Marcel Bar and Bistro on level one where you can enjoy a special Tasting Menu featuring local produce.

Dinner here was a treat, with an extensive menu enhanced by some much-appreciated wine selections.

For the main dish I opted for the lamb shoulder, chamomile, spec and brussels sprout – and for desert it was the mouth-watering Halva cake with chocolate ganache.

After wining and dining, it was time to relax in the Pullman’s oversized, apartment-style rooms that offer fine views of the surrounding tree tops.

There is also a convenient area with a desk and wif-fi, if you really have to work.

The smart TV complements the king-size bed in a curvaceous studio layout.

Guests can access a “sleep therapy menu” on their in-room tablet, allowing for customised hotel services such as pillows, sprays and face masks, as well as food and drink room service.

The spacious bathroom featured a premium natural skincare range, pleasantly made in Australia and just the tonic after a workout in the gym and sauna session.

Any workouts are offset at breakfast, where the buffet ticked all the boxes.

There’s 153 rooms with the cheapest starting from $300.

Things to do

You can’t visit Penrith and not be impressed by the area’s love of their high-flying rugby league team, which has won three straight NRL premierships.

All the action takes place at nearby BlueBet Stadium, which packs out on game days.

There’s plenty to do in the area too. This is The Blue Bet stadium, an excellent ground to watch rugby league.

But there’s more to Panther country than a footy team. The popular Blue Mountains are literally up the hill, with majestic views of the Megalong Valley and historic tourist villages such as Katoomba, Leura and Blackheath.

Katoomba is the home of Scenic World, where an interactive tour takes around 120 minutes and includes the Scenic Railway, Cableway, Skyway and the 10-minute rainforest boardwalk.

Along the way, Uncle David, an Indigenous tour guide from Scenic World, shared traditional stories and connections to Country.

For those that feel like a lift, you have to visit iFly

Literally across the road from the Pullman is the exhilarating experience of soaring like a bird for all the adrenaline junkies. iFly is in a safe and controlled environment where a massive turbine allows you to fly and feel like you’re swimming on air.

One of the more unlikely attractions in Penrith is the newly-opened Penrith Beach, nicknamed ‘Pondi”, a take on the more famous Bondi.

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It’s only a 12 minute drive from the Pullman Precinct, with real sand and calm waters and is great for all ages.

Pullman Sydney Penrith has 153 rooms, starting at $300 per night.

Dane was a guest of the Pullman Sydney Penrith

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Unique attractions await you on our epic Northern Territory driving tour: Red Centre deserts, outback towns, Aboriginal rock art and natural wonders galore. Spot desert wildlife at Alice Springs , dine among Nitmiluk's towering gorges , sleep in an outback pub and cool off in Litchfield's shady swimming holes. Your journey ends in tropical Darwin.

The Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Explorer

Laid-back seaside towns, soft white sands, endless beaches and national parks brimming with wildlife: so many attractions await you on the beautiful coastal route between Sydney and Melbourne. Watch whales at Jervis Bay, go bushwalking at rugged "Wilsons Prom", see Phillip Island's penguins and soak up dramatic scenic views along the way.

11 Day Off the Beaten Track Luxury

Tropical Darwin, Kakadu floodplains, ancient Uluru and Kangaroo Island wilderness: this 11 Day Luxury Fly/Drive tour immerses you in Australia's wildest locations without skimping on creature comforts. Stay in safari-style lodges, luxury bungalows and remote resorts, waking up each day to unforgettable views across outback plains, vast red deserts and rugged coastlines.

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What To Do South West Sydney? [The Right Answer] 2022
36 BEST Places to Visit in Sydney (2021 Guide)
What Is Sydney South West? [The Right Answer] 2022
Aerial Photography Sydney South West
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What You Need to Know on Your First Visit to Sydney, Australia

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South West Sydney Tourism Task Force
Welcome to the South West Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc. JOIN the Taskforce today! We are a registered not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting tourism and attracting visitors to the region. With the upcoming opening of the Western Sydney International Airport in just two years, it's crucial that we revive and capitalize on our ...
Explore South West Sydney
South West Sydney is a colourful, exciting pocket of the city with a world-class zoo, a huge arts centre and an incredible variety of multicultural restaurants. From Liverpool to Fairfield, Cabramatta to the verdant banks of the Georges River, the South West offers a diverse and engaging daycation for Sydneysiders and visitors alike, all about ...
Sydney Playcay: South West Sydney
The oldest Chilean eatery in Sydney, La Paula has been serving South West Sydney for more than 30 years. Start the day with traditional beef empanadas and the addictive alfajores, shortbread biscuits stuffed with dulce de leche. 10:30am: Taste your way through Cabramatta with a Taste of Vietnam tour. Discover the rich history and diverse eating ...
Discover South West
Discover South West specialises in designing tailored experiences and escapes to the Macarthur and Wollondilly regions, which are part of Greater South West Sydney. Their escapes include a range of local products and services including accommodation options, nature experiences, dining, fresh produce, adventure activities, events, and local ...
A Guide to Southwest Sydney That'll Take You from Brekkie to the Bar
Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym in Villawood offers both bouldering (low height, no ropes) and climbing (higher walls, safety ropes), and is the largest climbing gym in western Sydney. The numbers speak for themselves: 250 routes, 50 boulder problems and climbing walls up to 16 metres tall. Prices start at $20 for adult entry, but multi-visit passes ...
Sydney/South West
1 Albee's Kitchen, 282 Beamish St, Campsie, ☏ +61 2 9718-8302. 10AM-10PM. Specialises in Malaysian cuisine. It used to be a total hole-in-the-wall restaurant that wouldn't have looked out of place in Malaysia, but has been renovated and expanded. It still is pretty cramped, but the food is as good as ever.
Discover 10 Fun Things to do in Western Sydney
One of the best places to head for a hike or a picnic in Western Sydney is the Western Sydney Parklands. Covering an area of 5,280 hectares, the parklands take in parts of Blacktown, Fairfield and Liverpool. The highlights include: The Dairy: a fabulous place for a picnic, plenty of space for gathering with family and friends.
Sydney for Kids
Young kids can enjoy the fun of go-karting at the Junior Track. the junior kart age is 8-12 years and 4-7 years can join an adult driver 18+ in a twin kart. The Drift and Main Tracks are avaiable for teens aged 13+. There are also parties for ages 8 -12 and 13+. www.fastlanekarting.com.au.
20 Things To Do In South West Rocks NSW 2024 Guide
1. Trial Bay Gaol. The historic Trial Bay Gaol is one of the top attractions in South West Rocks which brings in visitors from all over Australia. Built in 1886, the heritage listed building housed prisoners who were brought to the area to build the breakwater to make a safe harbour between Brisbane and Sydney.
10 Scenic Drives from Sydney: Places to visit by car
Places to Visit Near Sydney by Car. Day Trips 1 hour from Sydney. Royal National Park. Cottage Point and Church Point. Wilberforce and Windsor. Wiseman's Ferry and St Albans. Day trips from Sydney that take a little longer. Berry. Berrima and Bowral.
The Best Things To Do In Parramatta And Western Sydney With Kids
I grew up in Sydney's South West suburbs, so have spent much of my life in the Parramatta and Western Sydney area. Sydney's South West and Western suburbs are an incredible mix of history, nature and delicious food, a perfect place to bring up kids or visit for the day. Check out the best things to do in Parramatta and Western Sydney with kids!
Beautiful Towns In NSW Less Than Two Hours From Sydney
Distance: 1 hour, 45-minute drive from Sydney. 4. Wollombi, Hunter Valley. Image: Visit NSW. Located 29 kilometres southwest of Cessnock, Wollombi might be the Hunter Valley's best-kept secret. The historic town is a maze of well-preserved streets, pretty cottages and fine country pubs.
Western Sydney
Visit Western Sydney and discover a world full of fantastic attractions, from adventure in Penrith to the cultural hub of Parramatta and lots more. ... South Western Sydney. These leafy suburbs on Sydney's southwestern fringe are surrounded by national parks, rivers and lakes. Camden
10 Gorgeous Small Towns to Visit Near Sydney, Australia
7) Thirroul. Nestled in between Sydney and the city of Wollongong, Thirroul is another one of the best rural towns to visit in New South Wales. Though Thirroul is small, there is a lot happening here. The town center is packed with adorable cafes, international restaurants, trendy bars, and enticing surf shops.
Visit Campbelltown
Content ViewMap ViewView all. Campbelltown is a growing, vibrant city that offers an abundance of unexpected delights. History, nature and a vibrant culture and creative centre offers opportunities to experience, discover and explore! Campbelltown is approximately 60 minutes south west of Sydney, in the Macarthur region. Dharawal National Park.
South Western Sydney
South Western Sydney. Macarthur. Holsworthy. South Western Sydney is a region of the metropolitan area in southwest Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It is part of the predominantly working class area of Greater Western Sydney. The region lies in the Cumberland Plain .
South West Sydney Tourism Taskforce Inc NSW
South West Sydney Tourism Taskforce Inc NSW. 788 likes · 14 talking about this. The SWSTTF is a not-for-profit member organization that works to promote the visitor economy. South West Sydney Tourism Taskforce Inc NSW
SXSW Sydney
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER TO INSPIRE THE UNEXPECTED. Dedicated to helping creative people achieve their goals, SXSW Sydney is for anyone with a desire for discovery. With over 1,000 sessions and events for over 300,000 attendees, we're creating a platform for countless connections that drive forward new ideas across Asia Pacific and beyond.
Things to do in South West Sydney
25 Free Activities to do in Sydney & Surrounds. 179. 15 Architectural 'Wonders' of Sydney. Sydney's amazing architectual wonders from around the world. 174. Grab a Bargain @ $1.00 World. This place makes $2 shops sound expensive. 171. Georges River Boardwalk at Picnic Point.
Free Things to do in South West Sydney
Channel your inner Planeteer. 109. St. Francis Xavier's Church. One of the two remaining Pugin architecture of its kind. 103. Salt Pan Creek Walking Track. A creek worth visiting. 100. Sydney for Free in January.
Underrated Sydney location you need to visit
The Western Sydney suburb is known as the gateway to the Blue Mountains and if you're seeking a little getaway, perhaps away from the hustle and bustle of inner-Sydney, 48 hours in Penrith is ...
Sydney, Australia
Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state's first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water. Enjoy the best of Sydney! Discover places to visit, fun things to do this weekend, best restaurants & more on the official Sydney ...
Things to do in Western Sydney
sydney west. Activities in Sydney West. From exploring UNESCO World Heritage convict sites to outdoor adventures such as kayaking the Nepean River, white water rafting at an Olympic stadium and hiking the scenic Great River Walk, Sydney West has a long list of activities for a fun-filled day out. Discover the best things to do below.
9 Day South West Explorer
With vibrant cities, a warm climate, unspoiled beaches and delicious local food & wine, South West Australia is guaranteed to win the whole family over. See smiling quokkas on Rottnest Island, discover Bunbury's playful dolphins, spot colourful corals at Busselton Jetty and feast on delicious local Margaret River food & wine. Central, family-friendly accommodations have been hand-picked for ...
Trip Planner
Use the Trip Planner to plan a trip on public transport by metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail, coach or by walking, cycling, taxi or rideshare anywhere in Sydney and NSW, with real-time information where available.