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The best day trips from Sydney

Venture to one of these countryside, coastal or mountainous locations only a couple of hours away from Sydney

Sydneysiders are a lucky bunch. Jump in the car (or the train) and within just a few hours you can find yourself in some of the most beautiful spots in the state.

But with so many options to choose from, it begs the question: where should you visit first? You're certainly spoilt for choice, so we've cherry-picked a selection of the best day trips from the city – featuring quaint villages, seaside hangouts and mountain escapes.

Around a two-hour drive or a scenic train ride away from the CBD, you'll find yourself rambling through eucalypts and gums, gazing out over gorgeous ocean cliffs, or watching the world go by in a sleepy village café. All these places have two things in common: they're close enough to get you there and back within a day, and they're well worth your time.

While you're on an adventure, check out the power of nature at these  waterfalls  and blowholes in NSW.

Want to make a night of it we've rounded up some of the best caravans and campervans to rent and tiny houses to stay in ..

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The most awesome day trips from Sydney

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

You’ll discover deep-rooted history and picturesque landscapes at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, 50 minutes north of Sydney by car. Feast your eyes on views of Pittwater to the Central Coast from the sandstone viewing area at West Head Lookout. Take a short walk through the bush to find important Indigenous sites on the Aboriginal Heritage walk , which includes viewings of historic rock engravings and handprints made by the Guringai people. The park includes many waterways including Hawkesbury River, Pittwater and Cowan Water, plus numerous creeks and coves to explore. Want to see more? Hire a paddle boat from the Bobbin Inn.

How far? 43km

Get there by car. It’s about 50 minutes’ drive from Sydney CBD.

• Royal National Park

The Royal National Park has endless possibilities for sightseers and explorers eager to connect with nature. Trek the expansive coastal cliffs and walk through eucalyptus bushlands, swim under the waterfalls in Wattamolla, or paddle down Hacking River by hiring a canoe from the Audley Boatshed. You can even catch a glimpse of whales migrating north for the winter from May to November. Cyclists can brave the 10km Loftus Loop Trail and unroll a picnic blanket for lunch at Ironbark Flat or Wattle Forest afterwards.

How far? 36km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or take the train from Central to Otford, which takes just over an hour and costs $7.65 with an Opal card.

Blue Mountains

Take a train to the Blue Mountains and make a day of visiting gobsmacking lookouts like Echo Point and wandering along tracks that boast rich Indigenous history. Trek the scenic loop of the Grand Canyon track near Blackheath to see world heritage listed waterfalls, sandstone walls and native plants. Or soak in the vibrant shades of flora in the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah . Take a peek into the Glow Worm Tunnel in Lithgow where the bioluminescent glow of fungus gnats covers the walls and ceilings. Or relax in at one of the finest day spas in the Blue Mountains  for massages, facials, soak therapies and body wraps.

How far? 79km

Get there by car, it’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or catch the Blue Mountains line train from Central to Katoomba, then the bus from Katoomba to Echo Point for the lookout. It costs around $10 with an Opal Card.

Dedicate a few solid hours to simply wandering around this adorable seaside village, stopping in at cute cafés and the famous Ice Creamery, Kiama (aaaaaaah). A trip here wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Kiama Blowhole , where waves spurt out through a  crevasse  in the cliff, forming a fabulous salty fountain. Play golf at the rural golf course or walk the Kiama Coast Walk for views of lush green cliffs overlooking rocky shores, rivers and private beaches. There are also plenty of surrounding coastal towns connected by cycleways for fitness fanatics to conquer. You can also book magestic activities like dolphin watching cruises, outdoor rock climbing and kayaking tours.

How far? 130 km

Get there by car, it’s about two hours away from Sydney CBD.

• Things to do

Home to panoramic coastal views, sunny weather and an infamous surf, Palm Beach is the ideal Australian package. Located one hour away from Sydney’s CBD on the Northern Beaches, this hot spot is perfect for a relaxing day trip away from the commotion of the city. Cruise the crystal waters on a boat charter, tee off at the Palm Beach Golf Course, or grab a bite at the Boathouse for lunch after embarking on a Pittwater kayaking tour . The Barrenjoey Lighthouse delivers a bird’s-eye-view of the sandy dunes, 91 metres above sea level. And if you're a die-hard Home and Away fan, you can pretend you're a Summer Bay local, as much of the show's filming was done at Plam Beach and the surf lifesaving club.

How far? 44km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or catch the L90 bus from Wynyard Station for around $5 with an Opal card.

Kangaroo Valley

If you’re looking to escape to the countryside, Kangaroo Valley, located two hours south of Sydney, has got you covered. Go wine tasting at the Yarrawa Estate Winery, where you can sample locally made jams. Entertain the kids by kayaking down Kangaroo River or go horse riding through rainforest and grazing lands . You can admire the Victorian architecture of the Hampden Bridge or the bushland views from Mannings lookout, too. For the DIYers there are also plenty of  hands-on classes in gourmet cooking, gardening, soap-making and the art of high tea.

How far? 156km

Get there by car. It’s about two hours and ten minutes away from Sydney CBD.

Port Stephens

Despite being a two hour drive from Sydney CBD, Port Stephens offers adventure and scenic views that make it worth the time at the wheel. Embark on a camel ride at Oakfield Ranch or dive in for a snorkel with dolphins. Sandboard the largest dunes of Stockton Beach during the day, or do it by sunset for a more romantic picnic setting. For adventurers, the outdoor rock climbing at Port Stephens’ sea cliffs will have you reaching unimaginable heights overlooking the ocean slapping the rocky shore, or you can opt to stretch your legs on the newly completed Tomaree Coastal Walk that is a whole 27 kilometres of stunning views.

How far? 179km

Get there by car, it’s about two hours and 30 minutes away from Sydney CBD.

The Entrance

Less than two hours north of Sydney, you’ll find one of the most charming corners of the Central Coast. Famed for its community of hungry pelicans – there’s a public feeding of the local ‘scoop’ (that’s the collective noun) every day at 3.30pm, which can attract up to 50 hungry birds –  this coastal town sits astride the natural ocean channel that separates the sapphire waters of Tuggerah Lake from the Pacific. A day out here is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors but want to keep one foot planted in civilisation – the town has plenty of caf é s and restaurants you can retreat to when you need a feed or a coffee. There are many super spots for fishing and prawning and multiple places in town where you can hire the necessary equipment if you’re not already kitted out. If you’re a keen cyclist, the 12-km shared trail along the lake will have you spoilt for beautiful views and just north of the Entrance, there are a number of easily manageable bushwalking tracks through Wyrrabalong National Park. During the sunnier months, head to Tuggerah Beach, which boasts more than 8km of golden sands lapped by ocean waves, and if you’re not put off by chillier waters, surf conditions are excellent here all year round.

How far? 110km

Get there by car. It’s about 1.5 hours from Sydney CBD.

This quaint spot is the South Coast getaway for people who live on the South Coast, and being locally adored is always a good sign. It’s basically a two-for-one holiday: the salty sea breeze floating up from Seven Mile Beach to the sprawling green hills makes you feel like you’re in a small country town and a forgotten seaside village in the same breath. There’s incredible baked goods to be found at  Milkwood Bakery and you’ll find unusual bottles of plonk at the almost-too-cool Justin Lill Wines & the Berry Bottleshop . If fancier eats are in order, Queen St Eatery is an elegant little restaurant on Berry’s main drag executing the classics with style. A generous plate of prawns grilled in their shells carry a whisper of aniseed from the Pernod flambe, and the herbal spiciness of a proper Café de Paris butter on a minute steak is balanced by a crunchy nest of wafer-thin fries. If you’re ready to burn some energy, the three-hour return hike to the stunning plateau of the Drawing Room Rocks is always a winner. Looking to stay the night? Plan a long simmer in a balcony bath with sightlines out to the ocean at the stunning Mount Hay Retreat . 

How far? 138km

Get there by car on a two-hour drive that’ll take you past some gorgeous ocean cliffs – stop off at the Kiama Blowhole on the way, or take your pick of other South Coast adventures . 

Step into another time by visiting the historic village of Berrima, established in the 1830s. Widely recognised as the preserved example of a Georgian village on the Australian mainland, Berrima is surrounded by wineries, charming centuries-old architecture, and fancy boutiques. Buy handmade country produce at Mrs Oldbucks Pantry and warm winter knits from the Australian Alpaca Centre. Stop by Eschalot for lunch for a hatted fine-dining experience at a heritage-listed building. Walk by the Berrima River for a platypus sighting, or book yourself a ghost tour at the local courthouse.

How far? 125km

Get there by car. It’s just under two hours away from Sydney CBD.

Lake Macquarie

While you may only know Lake Macquarie for its expansive body of water, this unassuming region sandwiched between Sydney and Newcastle has a lot to offer city folk looking to slow down and get back to nature. If you want to go there and back again in a day, Bilbo Baggins-style, then we must recommend a trail  ride with  AAA Horse Riding & More . You'll be trotting and cantering under palm tree canopies, along lush fern pathways and through skinny gums stretching skyward at the foothills of  the Watagan Mountains. Afterwards, become a salty skipper while you cruise around the region's namesake lake on a private runabout boat with  Jetbuzz Watersports .

How far? 127km 

Get there by car in just under two hours, driving through the bushlands of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Stanwell Park

Situated on the northern tip of Wollongong, Stanwell Park is where Australian aeronautical pioneer Lawrence Hargrave first flew in his box kite in 1894. Since then, Bald Hill lookout has been the spot for hang gliding and paragliding, as well as a good place to enjoy an alfresco lunch. You can also hike the 6.5km walking track of Wodi Wodi or hand feed kangaroos at Symbio Wildlife Park . If all else fails, slap on some sunscreen and head to the beach for a splash.

How far? 64km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour, 15 minutes from Sydney CBD. Or take the train from Central to Otford, which takes around one hour and costs about $6 with an Opal card. The walk from Otford Station to Stanwell Tops takes 22 minutes.

Mermaid Pools

• Southern Highlands

Trek through the bush, swim in rivers and chase waterfalls around Mermaid Pools near Tahmoor Gorge. You’ll encounter steep steps and rocky platforms as you venture to the water, but the views are well worth it. While the Mermaid Pools themselves are not the safest to swim in, the many swimming holes you’ll encounter on the trek are ideal for a splash. The See Through Pools are the perfect pit-stop for a swim, allowing you to view hidden rock formations underwater.

How far? 100km

Get there by car, it’s about 1.5 hours from Sydney CBD.

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Colourful Trips

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Colourful Trips offers scheduled and private group day tours from Sydney to the destinations of the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Jervis Bay, Jenolan Caves and Canberra. Small groups, active itineraries, excellent inclusions, professional guides, modern vehicles, all operating under a 100% carbon neutral business model. When you choose to travel with Colourful Trips, you join a likeminded group of positive travellers wanting an awesome, travel experience.

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We had a wonderful day on this tour! From petting kangaroos and a koala to taking hikes with breathtaking views, our guide, Peter, went above and beyond to make sure all went well. Note: there is an extra charge to pet the koala, but lunch and everything else is included in the price.

The best Port Stephens tour we have ever done (and we've done a few)! Dolphins, sand dunes, beautiful bays and lookouts - the perfect balance between lots of things to see and do and a relaxed pace to enjoy them. And Peter is an amazing guide!

We had such a great time in the Blue Mountains. Our tour guide Ronnie was very fun and chatty, which was great because he told us so many cool facts and made the tour even more interesting with his stories that he told so lively. He showed us all his favorite spots with amazing views. Great experience.

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The 9 Best Day Trips from Sydney (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 4, 2024

From roaming through the wilderness of the Blue Mountains or the Royal National Park to tasting world-class wines in the Hunter Valley and relaxing in Palm Beach, these are the best day trips from Sydney.

If you are lucky enough to have already visited Sydney before and are out of new ideas on what to see and do – don’t stress, because I’m here to help!

Even though Sydney is an epicentre of culture, there is also an abundance of interesting sights and things to do outside of Sydney too.

Table of Contents

What To Do In The Blue Mountains

What to do in wollongong and kiama, what to do in newcastle, what to do in the hunter valley, what to do in the southern highlands, 6) royal national park, 7) ku ring gai chase national park, 8) port stephens, 9) palm beach, the best day trips from sydney.

After you’ve seen all the Sydney highlights, including the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, the National Portrait Gallery, and Sydney Opera House, it’s time to get out and explore the surrounding areas.

Here is my list of the best day trips from Sydney, most of which are easily accessible by public transport. Many of these could be weekend trips as well if you have time.

While on your epic Australian journey, make sure you get out of the city and check out these amazing spots too.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

1) The Blue Mountains National Park

I think it is only fair to start the list with the Blue Mountains, one of Sydney’s most iconic and picturesque locations.

The intense blue colour of the mountains is due to the native eucalyptus trees dispersing their oil in the atmosphere.

Droplets of oil mixed with water vapour scatter long rays of light, which are predominantly blue in colour.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed guide on the  best things to do in the Blue Mountains .

A World Heritage site, Blue Mountains National Park is located 130 km South West of Sydney. It takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to reach the mountains from the Sydney CBD, depending upon whether you are driving or using public transport.

If using public transport from the city, take a train ride from Central Station to Katoomba. From Katoomba, you can either walk to some of the great attractions or take a hop-on hop-off bus to Echo Point, a great launching point for adventures.

Famous for its dramatic scenery, stunning mountains, beautiful valleys, towering waterfalls, rock formations, art galleries, Aboriginal art centres, and eucalyptus forests, there is a huge array of amazing things to see and do in the area. It is easy to see why it is a World Heritage site!

The Three Sisters , Echo Point, Scenic World  (offering rides on the railway, skyway, and cable car) & Wentworth Falls are the major attractions, and they will all fill up your time in the area quickly.

There are also quite a few single-day & multi-day hikes in the area which can help extend your time up there. If you’re not a big hiker, consider strolling through the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden.

And if you love local festivals, this is the place to be, with the Blue Mountains Music Festival happening in March, The Winter Magic Festival in June, the fun ‘Christmas in July’ event, and the Leura Garden Festival in October.

Speaking of Leura, this nearby village is a good detour about one hour drive on your way out of Sydney.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the months of July and August, you will even get the chance to witness stunning cherry blooms.

Though the Blue Mountains is a year-round day trip destination, summers can get really hot and winters can get real cold (sometimes even snow!). So having appropriate gear is very important (and a lot of sunscreen!).

If you’re looking to book a day tour including transport from Sydney, lunch and all the best activities to do, the best one available is on Get Your Guide .

2) Wollongong & Kiama

Just an hour’s drive south of Sydney lies the beautiful coastal suburb of Wollongong . And a bit further south from there is Kiama .

If you haven’t already added these spots to your list of day trips from Sydney, add it now!

You can easily travel to Wollongong via public transport. But since the ‘ Grand Pacific Drive ‘ is one of the ‘must-dos’ of Sydney, driving would be a better option.

We recommend renting a car from Rental Cars , the largest and most affordable platform on the net.

While driving along the route, make sure to stop at the Sea Cliff Bridge to get a panoramic view of the bridge and the coastline. Bald Hill is another amazing lookout spot on the route.

Don’t worry, there will be no difficulty in spotting this as you will see many cars parked along it. The only problem will be to find a parking spot!

Not comfortable with driving? No worries – you can book a Grand Pacific Drive day trip from Sydney here .

READ MORE: We’ve just published a complete  travel guide to Australia ! Don’t miss it.

Port Kembla beach makes a fantastic day trip, only 10km from Wollongong and one of the most stunning beaches in the region.

If surfing is your thing you’ll be in heaven. Wollongong is home to many surf schools, offering everything from one-hour lessons to four-week intensive classes.

If you are interested in Chinese culture & Buddhism, Nan Tien temple is another interesting stop. You can take the bus from the Unanderra Station, and conveniently enough the bus stops just outside the temple.

Into cycling? The bike trail from Wollongong to Thirroul is another attraction.

The most exciting out of all for me was the Tandem Sky Diving , where I had my very first (and only) skydiving experience.

It is such an incredible sight to behold the coastal line from above and I highly recommend it.

About 30km south of Wollongong lies Kiama ,  a real gem on the south coast of New South Wales.

The main attraction of Kiama is the natural blowhole which keeps blowing high depending upon the tides. Also, there is a lighthouse located just a short walk away.

Kiama is quite a busy area – the beautiful beaches and the coastal walk are the reason why.

With plenty of food options along the coast, Kiama is an ideal place for a perfect afternoon on the beach.

If you’re planning on making Kiama a day trip from Sydney, we recommend driving though so you can get out to the best spots and back in time for dinner.

Hanging out in Sydney longer? Check out our to have the perfect 3-5 day itinerary here !

3) Newcastle

Newcastle is located across the Hawkesbury River about two hours north of Sydney and 100 km from Central Coast.

There are regular trains departing from Sydney, or you can drive north as well. Both will take approximately 2:30 – 3 hours and make for a long day trip.

If you are driving and want to explore some beautiful beaches, stop by Pearl Beach near Gosford on the way up. There is a nice walking track that makes for a good place to stretch the legs while driving up to Newcastle.

If you decide to drive, The Entrance is a nice pit stop along the way where you’ll find you can have a cup of coffee or brunch at the wharf.

Newcastle is famous for its beers, beaches & food scene, so make sure you set some time aside to hit up places like Merriweather Beach and try some fish and chips!

Blackbutt Reserve is a nature park that has a lot of wildlife and a few picnic areas. A great spot to hit in case the waves are too rough at the beach.

There is no entry fee, and you get to see peacocks & kangaroos roaming freely.

Fort Scratchley  boasts over one hundred years of history of protecting the land from invading naval vessels and is also a great spot for whale watching during winters. There is no entry fee and the guided tour is only $12.50!

Merriweather Ocean Baths are popular sea baths/swimming pools, where locals and tourists enjoy their summer (similar to Bondi Iceberg Pool).

Bogey Hole is a rock pool and another brilliant spot for swimming. The view of the Newcastle coastal line from here is spectacular.   

Nobby’s Light House and Newcastle Memorial walk are other interesting things to do.

4) Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley is a bit of a long day trip as it’s 4 hours north of Sydney past Central Coast and Newcastle. But it’s a great destination for all wine aficionados.

The region is the most proclaimed wine region in NSW and showcases dozens of different vineyards.

This is an ideal opportunity to learn about winemaking, the impact of the Australian weather and soil on the winemaking process, and of course to taste world-class wines!

If you don’t know much about wines, the best way to pick and choose a bottle for yourself is to consult the information centre or ask the experts in the cellar doors.

There are other things to see/do in the Hunter region in addition to wine tasting, such as biking through the vineyards, enjoying a romantic stay in one of the boutique vineyards, etc.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris over the wineries is another amazing activity that you don’t want to miss.

Hunter Valley Gardens situated in the heart of the region are a beautiful and serene spot to visit. You will feel like you are in a whole new world compared to the city life you left behind.

5) The Southern Highlands

If you want to relax and enjoy some of the best countryside in NSW, drive south down to the Southern Highlands, located just 2 hours south of Sydney.

This region is for those who would love to see rolling mountains, countryside living, charming village markets, and beautiful wineries.

You’ll find the Southern Highlands is also famous for the beautiful spring colours, and a visit during the month of April will take your breath away!

Day trips to Bowral will bring you to the birthplace of Don Bradman, the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen.

Here you can visit the Bradman Museum and the International Cricket Hall of Fame. Learn all about Bradman’s milestones in his private life as well as in the world of cricket.

Also worth mentioning is that Bowral hosts the Tulip Time Festival in the month of September at Corbett Gardens.

Berrima   has a Court House, Heritage Walk, Harper’s Mansion (Gregorian Style mansion), Art Galleries and lots of food shopping centres to keep you engaged.

Also to be found is one of the oldest licensed pubs in Australia, the Surveyor General Inn.

Fitzroy Falls & Mittagong   (famous for its stunning wineries and countryside living) are two other places worth paying a visit.

Kangaroo Valley is another great stop in the Southern Highlands about two hours along the south coast from Sydney. It’s wedged between Bowral and Kiama.

A most notable reason to visit Kangaroo Valley is that it is a jumping-off point to explore Fitzroy Falls.

Also when you’re in Kangaroo Valley be sure to walk over the Hampden Bridge Victorian-era suspension bridge over the Kangaroo River.

If you have the time, continue exploring further south into Morton National Park for more hiking trails and wildlife.

Royal National Park is perhaps the most famous national park in all of Australia. It is the oldest national park in Australia and the second oldest in the world behind Yellowstone National Park in the US.

The park is full of stunning coastal scenery and home to many great walks, including the epic Royal Coast Track.

Some other highlights of Royal National Park include Wedding Cake Rock, Wattamolla Beach, Marley Beach, Garie Beach, Jibbon Point, and Eagle Rock. Keep an eye peeled for several places where you can view Aboriginal rock carvings indicating the historical and cultural importance of this park.

You can reach the Royal National Park by public transportation from Central Station as it is only around a 45-minute ride. Of course, if you have your own vehicle this is an easy day trip to make.

READ MORE: Love to hike? Check out our guide to all of the great Royal National Park walks !

Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park is located just over an hour north of Sydney in the Northern Beaches region along the Hawkesbury River. As the second oldest national park in Australia, Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park hosts a variety of wildlife and history.

Whether you want to explore the coastland, rainforest or bush Ku Ring Gai Chase offers it all. The West Head lookout is one of the more popular vistas within the national park.

Where cultural sites such as ancient Aboriginal rock art meet European exploration, the national park gives you the chance to hike, picnic, and explore trails that run through the tributaries and along the Hawkesbury River.

With Royal National Park being the oldest, closest and most popular national park for day trips from Sydney, Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park is the second oldest national park and is well worth your time.

Another nearby option for hiking and exploring the wilderness is Brisbane Water National Park, also on the Hawkesbury River. So for more Sydney day trip ideas, this national park is just in between Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park and Newcastle on the Central Coast. It’s also near the lovely Pearl Beach is you fancy a swim in the ocean.

Port Stephens is another great day trip just over two hours from Sydney to the north. A hot destination among Aussie travellers, Port Stephens offers enough to attract visitors from all over the world.

With many epic beaches , a handful of gorgeous bays and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, Port Stephens is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Stockton sand dunes are a unique attraction to the area. Here you can quad bike through the sand dunes, try sandboarding down the slopes or even ride a camel through the sand.

Port Stephens is also recognized as the dolphin capital of Australia as you are all but guaranteed to see them when you visit. The waters around the area make up Great Lakes Marine Park, so there is lots of marine life. Take a dolphin tour to see marine life up close!

If you really want to see some wildlife, koalas are abundant in the area if you can spot them. And you can also spot humpback whales between May to October.

Or hedge your bets and check out dingos, wombats, snakes, koalas, and other native Australian animals at the Oakvale Wildlife Park.

READ MORE: Stay a few extra days in Port Stephens with this itinerary !

Palm Beach is one of the easiest Sydney day trips ideas, as it is just under an hour north of the city on the coastal side of Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park.

Known by locals as “Palmy,” Palm Beach is one of the wealthiest suburbs in Australia and part of the northern beaches region of Sydney.

The most popular attraction at Palm Beach is the Barrenjoey Lighthouse at the end of the narrow peninsula.

If you climb to the top of the Barrenjoey Lighthouse you can look out over Palm Beach and Ku Rung Gai Chase National Park at the famous West Head beach and rock formations or stare off over the seemingly never-ending Tasman Sea.

But gold sandy beaches and crystal clear water of Palm Beach also attract visitors looking for a beautiful getaway from the city. Dine at some fantastic restaurants and sip your favorite cocktails on the beach.

If you’re interested in hiking there are some great walks around Palm Beach.

There is also great paddleboarding and kayaking around Palm Beach as it is surrounded by plenty of salt water and sunshine!

That’s it for our list of the best day trips from Sydney! What would you add? Let us know in the comments below!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Rohini Nair

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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These are absolutely stunning places! I have yet to really explore Wollongong and Kiama but I’m looking forward to it now after reading this article. Awesome read!

Thank you. Glad you liked the article. 🙂

Hi, Nice blog. Thanks for sharing. Sydney is a nice place for the holiday.

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30 Best Day Trips From Sydney You’ll Love 2024 Guide

Looking for the best day trips from Sydney? If you simply want to escape the city for the day or find new places to visit in New South Wales, we’ve got the perfect Sydney day trip ideas for you to choose from! Expect the second oldest national park in the world, road trips down to the beautiful Grand Pacific Drive, wine tasting in Hunter Valley and so much more.

Whether you’re looking for new places to visit in Sydney, or just looking to get out of the city, we’re here to help you.

We’re including day trips from Sydney by train and bus, so if you’re new to Sydney or don’t have a car, you can use this article as your go to Sydney weekend guide.

Table of Contents

DAY TRIPS NORTH OF SYDNEY WITHIN 2 HOURS

1. spend the day at avalon beach.

North Sydney / 50 mins drive from Sydney

After living in the nearby Warriewood for a few months, we spent a lot of time exploring the area so you might like to check out our huge Northern Beaches in Sydney Guide .  

While most people skip Avalon Beach in Sydney and head straight to Palm Beach, there’s so many reasons why Avalon easily makes it onto our best day trips from Sydney list. Spend the day exploring the beautiful Avalon shops as well as the many cafes and restaurants to choose from. You can check out our full guide on  where to eat in Avalon Beach .

Pro tip – drive over to the Pittwater side in Clareville, you’ll have access to the gorgeous Clareville Beach which is popular with families. Drive on a little further an explore the stunning Paradise Beach which we randomly found on Google Maps. This slice of heaven feels remote, like you’ve found a real hidden gem. You can read more about  Paradise Beach in our guide  here.

How to get to Avalon Beach By Car:  It’s a 50m drive north of Sydney By Bus:  You’ll have to take two busses to get to Avalon Beach which will take 1h30m.

2. Take A Ferry Over To Beautiful Scotland Island In Sydney

North Sydney / 40 minute drive from Sydney

If you fancy going on a boat on your day trip from Sydney then we recommend getting the ferry over to Scotland Island from Church Point in Pittwater. The boat ride itself is gorgeous and we highly recommend it even if it doesn’t take very long. Read our complete Scotland Island Guide for logistics on how to get there and things to do.

When you return from your ferry ride either opt for the beautiful Church Point Waterfront Store & Cafe or pop next door to Pasadena. If you’re unsure which one is better, Pasadena has a great beer garden on the water and they do a cracking fish & chips which is slightly cheaper than the Waterfront Store & Cafe. The latter is beautiful though and definitely worth eating at even if you just want to pop into the store to pick a few snacks up.

How to get to Scotland Island By Car:  It’s a 40m drive north of Sydney By Bus:  You’ll have to take two busses to get to Church Point Wharf to get the ferry over which will take 1h30m.

3. Spend The Day At Palm Beach

North Sydney / 1h drive from Sydney

While Palm Beach is a popular day trip from Sydney, this one hour drive from Sydney Harbour Bridge is worth every single minute because it truly is beautiful.

I have been known to stalk the Home & Away set locations from time to time up here and even found them filming outside The Boathouse once! Check out our complete guide for the Best Things To Do In Palm Beach Sydney for all details on how to spend the day or weekend getaway here.

How to get to Palm Beach By Car: It’s a 1 hour drive north of Sydney By Bus: The L90 will take you directly to Palm Beach which takes about 1h30m.

4. Go On A Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Walk

North Sydney / 1 hour drive from Sydney

As we mentioned above about our secret hike we do from Palm Beach, you can get to the beautiful  Resolute Beach from Palm Beach Wharf . We tend to jump on the ferry to Great Mackerel Beach which is stunning in itself, then walk 40 minutes or so around to Resolute Beach in Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park. I wouldn’t take young kids as it’s hiking in the bush next to the water on a not so well trodden on track, not on a boardwalk.

If you’re driving over to Ku-ring-gai National Park, you can head down the Resolute Beach track from the beautiful West Head Lookout. West Head Lookout is stunning and has a great perspective of the famous Barrenjoey Lighthouse in Palm Beach.

How to get to Ku-ring-gai National Park By Car:  It’s a 1 hour drive to America Bay Track By Bus:  Sorry there’s no public transport to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 

5. Go On The Riverboat Postman Cruise On The Hawkesbury River

North Sydney / 45min drive from Sydney

We loved our experience on the  River Boat Postman Cruise  which is located in Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River. That’s right, you can join the postman on his run around the islands in the Hawkesbury for a fun boat trip which lasts for 3 hours. At the time of writing, it was just $58 for adults and $18 for kids.

This is also a really easy day trip from Sydney by train. You just need to jump on one train from Central and it will take just over an hour to get there. Best of all, the train station at Brookyln is directly opposite the Riverboat Postman Cruise!

How to get to Brooklyn By Car:  It takes 1hr from Sydney By Public Transport:  1h15m train from Central station

6. Spend The Day At An Aussie Sheep Farm

North Sydney / 1h20m from Sydney

If you’re looking an authentic taste of Aussie culture then we recommend heading over to  Tobruk Sheep Station  for a bit of a different Sydney day trip. You’ll see demonstrations in whip cracking, sheep-sheering and even boomerang throwing to keep you entertained.

How to get to Tobruk Sheep Station from Sydney By Car:  It takes 1h20m from Sydney By Public Transport:  It takes 2h45m with a combo of a train and bus

7. Relax At Patonga & Pearl Beach

A bit further north of the Hawkesbury River and you’ll come to the beautiful Patonga Beach and Pearl Beach. You can actually get a ferry from Palm Beach over to Patonga so it’s up to you how you decide to do your day trip from Sydney.

There’s a campground at Patonga Beach which we always said we’d love to stay at one day because it’s right on the water and looks beautiful. Plus, it’s just a short walk down the road to The Boathouse at Patonga.

8. Check Out The Beautiful Avoca Beach

North Sydney / Between 1h30m – 2h drive

Avoca Beach is a beautiful little coastal town, perfect for a day out of the city or weekend getaway. We recommend Aqua Fun for the family, a visit to one of the BBC’s best cinema’s in the world – the  Avoca Beach Picture Theatre  and the Gin Distillery for some gin tasting and walks around the beautiful gardens.

How to get to Avoca Beach By Car:  Between 1h30m – 2h By Bus:  Takes 2 hours from Sydney with a combo of train and bus

9. Go Horse Riding Or Abseiling At Glenworth Valley

North Sydney / 1h20m drive from Sydney

A great family day trip from Sydney or anyone really is spending the day at  Glenworth Valley . Just an hour north of Sydney will bring you to an adventurers paradise (especially for kids). Expect quad biking, horse riding, abseiling and a whole lot more.

How to get to Glenworth Valley By Car:  It takes 1h20m to get there from Sydney By Bus:  There’s no public transport to Glenworth Valley unfortunately

10. Spend The Day At The Hippest Town On The Central Coast, Long Jetty

North Sydney / 1h30m

Known as being the Central Coast version of Newtown, expect some cool cafes, antique shops, fab street art and much more at Long Jetty, a hidden gem nestled right next door to The Entrance. Find out more about it in our guide, Best Things To Do In Long Jetty .

How to get to Long Jetty By Car:  It should take 1h30m to drive from Sydney to Long Jetty By Public Transport:  You’ll need to take the Newcastle train to Gosford, then take the B21 or B22 bus to Long Jetty which will take 2h30m total.

11. Spend The Day In Newcastle

North Sydney / 2h by car

Just a two drive north of Sydney, Newcastle has many incredible beaches you’ll find not nearly as busy as any Sydney beach. We lived there for about a year and have loads of guides for you to check out including:

Best Things To Do In Newcastle – discover everything from the best restaurants, shops and hidden gems.

Best Beaches In Newcastle – check out our favourite hidden beaches only locals would know about.

How to get to Newcastle By Car:  It’s just a 2hr drive north of Sydney By Train:  It takes 2h30m to get there with a combo of train and the newly built tram line into the centre of Newcastle

12. Spend The Day At Hunter Valley

North Sydney / 2h10m drive from Sydney

The Hunter Valley is known as NSW’s wine country, and it can be on the pricey side too. But, we’ve done our research and found some great gems when it comes to exploring this area. We recommend eating at  Cafe Enzo  and going on a DIY wine tasting tour. Also, how could we forget, visit the  Hunter Valley Gardens  for a great family day out – there’s a couple of fairground rides as well.

HOW TO GET TO HUNTER VALLEY By Car:  2h30m drive from Sydney By Bus:  There’s no public transport but there’s loads of tours to Hunter Valley from Sydney.

13. Something For Everyone At Port Stephens

North Sydney / 2h30m drive from Sydney

Just an hour’s drive north of Newcastle is the beautiful Port Stephens. It’s one of those places that has something for everyone. There’s loads of activities to keep the family entertained like going  sandboarding on the dunes , as well as exploring the set location of the Mad Max movies, camel rides and  shark cage diving !

How to get to Port Stephens By Car:  It’s a three hour drive north of Sydney, past the city of Newcastle By Bus:  It takes an hour from Newcastle on the bus.

DAY TRIPS WEST OF SYDNEY

14. get some space in blue mountains.

Western Sydney / 1h30m drive from Sydney

The Blue Mountains National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Sydney. There’s loads of hikes to tackle with our favourites being  Hanging Rock  and  Wentworth Falls , as well as Insta famed lookout points that you can drive right to such as: Lincolns Rock and our favourites, Hargraves Lookout and Blackheath Lookout. Check out our Blue Mountains guides which include visiting scenic world, outdoor rock climbing and so much more:

Best Things To Do In Blue Mountains

Best Blue Mountains Hikes

Best Lookouts In Blue Mountains

Ultimate Guide For A Romantic Weekend In Blue Mountains

Everything You Need To Know About Camping In Blue Mountains

Best Places To Stay In Blue Mountains

How to get to Blue Mountains National Park from Sydney By Car:  It’s a 2h drive from Sydney By Train:  One of the easiest places to get to from Sydney via public transport is Blue Mountains. It’s a 2h20m on the train.

15. Experience A Slice Of England At Breenhold Gardens

Western Sydney / 1h50m drive from Sydney

Right near to Blue Mountains National Park you’ll find Mount Wilson and the beautiful  Breenhold Gardens . It’s only open during a few weeks in the year during Spring and Autumn but we reckon these gardens are the best to see the autumn and spring colours in Sydney. If you’re British, these gardens will certainly remind you of home being one of the most amazing day trips from Sydney.

It’s no wonder Mount Wilson is often used as the set location for many movies including The Great Gatsby which you can read about int our  18 Hollywood movies filmed in Sydney   guide.

How to get to Breenhold Gardens from Sydney By Car:  It takes 2h10m to get to Breenhold Gardens By Public Transport:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport to Breenhold Gardens 

16. Relax In The Best Hot Baths In NSW At Sparadise Japanese Bath House

West Sydney / 2h30m drive from Sydney

Another amazing day trip from Sydney is  Sparadise Japanese Bath House  in the middle of the Blue Mountains. We absolutely love this gem where you’ll be sitting in 30C+ water, looking out to magnificent views and wondering how on earth you didn’t know anything about it before.

How to get to Sparadise By Car:  Approx. 2h30m from Sydney By Train:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport to Sparadise 

17. Visit The Less Touristy Caves Near Sydney

Western Sydney / 3hr drive from Sydney

Our another awesome day trip from Sydney without the crowds is at  Wombeyan Caves  which is just a stones throw from Blue Mountains National Park. You might have heard of Jenolan Caves but if you drive just an hour longer, you’ll come to Wombeyan Caves. You can do a tour or a self guided tour into the caves just like we did! If visiting in Summer, trek into the  Mares Forest Creek Canyon  for a hike and swim, it’s one of the best things we’ve ever done in Australia.

How to get to Wombeyan Caves By Car:  It takes around 3hr to drive there By Bus:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport to Wombeyan Caves

18. Be Totally Wowed By The Views At Kanangra-Boyd National Park

Western Sydney / 2h45m drive from Sydney

Very few know about  Kanangra-Boyd National Park  and although it’s a bit of a drive to get there, you’ll be in complete amazement of the beauty of this part of the Blue Mountains National Park. You’ll honestly think you’re in somewhere like Borneo when you see the views from this stunning day trip from Sydney. There are campsites here too if you want to make a weekend of it!

How to get to Kanangra-Boyd National Park By Car:  It takes around 2hr45m to drive there By Bus:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport to Kanangra-Boyd National Park 

19. Visit The Secret Glow Worm Tunnel In Newnes

Western Sydney / approximately 3h30m drive from Sydney

Newnes is one of the proper gems to visit near Sydney. It might take a while to get there but it’s totally worth it. Even the scenery on the way to Newnes is exceptional. We recommend going on  the glow worm tunnel hike  (good for families too) where you have to walk through a very black tunnel along the old railway tracks to see the glow worms.

If you fancy staying for a few days, there’s an awesome free campsite there too. We want to head back to see the old zig zag railway bridge too!

How to get to Newnes from Sydney By Car:  It can take up to 3h30m to drive to Newnes By Bus:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport options to get to Newnes 

DAY TRIPS SOUTH OF SYDNEY

20. spend the day at royal national park.

South Sydney / 1 hour from Sydney

This is clearly one of our favourite day trips from Sydney! As the second oldest national park in THE WORLD, you’ll find plenty of incredible beaches and hikes to go on. You can read our full list of the  15 Best Royal National Park Walks  if you want to know all of our favourite places to visit.

Some of our favourite hikes include the  Wedding Cake Rock walk  which leads onto the stunning Big Marley Beach as well as the Palona Cave walk.

2. Hike To The Insta Phenomenon Figure 8 Pools

Southern Sydney / 1hr drive from Sydney

Although it is part of The Royal National Park, we felt it was only right to give the Figure 8 Pools hike a section of its own which is just an hours south of Sydney. Make sure you check the tides before going there otherwise you might have wasted your day as it would be too dangerous at high tide. We recommend reading  our full blog post about Figure 8 Pools  first before you go on this amazing coastal walk along beautiful beaches.

How to get to Figure 8 Pools from Sydney By Car:  It’s a 1 hour drive from Sydney By Bus:  It’s a 1 hour train ride to Otford, then hike from there

22. Find The Famous Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout

Continue on your drive on the south coast and you’ll find the beautiful lookout point at Stanwell Tops which reaches over to the famous Sea Cliff Bridge in the distance.

We loved the short hike up to the view point ( read our Sea cliff Bridge Guide first ), but just be careful if you do attempt it. Please don’t take children up there and if you go be super careful and always wear hiking boots as thongs or trainers won’t cut it.

How to get to Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout By Car:  It’s a 1 hour drive from Sydney By Bus:  It’s also a 1 hour train ride from Central to Stanwell Park Station

23. Have A Fun Packed Day In Wollongong & Kiama

Southern Sydney / 1h30m to drive from Sydney

You’ll find not one but two incredible temples to visit in Wollongong being the beautiful Nan Tien Temple and  Sri Venkateswara Temple, a couple of awesome lookout points, brilliant hikes and zip lining for the family.

Obviously don’t forget to visit the biggest blowhole in THE WORLD down at Kiama as well. Read our full guide for the Best Things To Do In Wollongong before you go which is full of hidden gems!

How to get to Wollongong from Sydney By Car:  It takes 1h30m to drive from Sydney By Bus:  It takes 1h30m to get the train from Sydney – Wollongong.

24. Bring Out Your Inner Child At Jamberoo

Southern Sydney / 1h30m-2h drive from Sydney

Jamberoo Action Park  is a brilliant day trip from Sydney during the summer. Set in the country on the outskirts of Kangaroo Valley, this water slide park is a great day trip for the whole family.

How to get to Jamberoo from Sydney By Car:  It takes between 1h30m-2h to drive there By Bus:  It takes about 3hr with a combo of bus and train

25. Visit The Beautiful Southern Highlands

Southern Sydney / 1h30m drive from Sydney

Southern Highlands is one of our favourite weekend getaways from Sydney. We also love mooching around the shops in Bowral, driving around the stunning Kangaroo Valley and Kangaroo River, as well as appreciating the hiking trails and secret gardens in the area. Check out our guides for weekend trips or a day trip below:

The Ultimate Guide For Visiting Southern Highlands

42 Things To Do In Kangaroo Valley

15 Best Things To Do In Robertson

28 Best Things To Do In Bowral

The Best Kangaroo Valley Waterfalls You Need To Visit

How to get to Southern Highlands By Car:  It takes about 1h30 to drive there. By Public Transport:  Catch a direct train from Sydney and you’ll be in Bowral in 1h30m.

26. Visit A Thai Buddhist Monastery

Southern Sydney / 2hr drive from Sydney

We absolutely love  Sunnataram Thai Buddhist Monastery  in Bundanoon which is west of Kangaroo Valley. If you’re not up for doing one of their donation based weekend retreats, you can visit every Sunday from 11-4pm. Just make sure you cover your shoulders, arms and below the knees for respect for the monks.

How to get to Sunnataram Forest Monastery By Car:  It takes about 2 hours to drive there. By Public Transport:  It takes between 2-3 hours to get there with a combo of buses and trains.

27. Discover The Whitest Sand Beach In The World At Jervis Bay

Southern Sydney / 3hour drive from Sydney

Just a three hour drive south of Sydney sits the beautiful Jervis Bay. With the title known as the world’s whitest sand beach, we recommend going on the White Sands Walk which is one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Australia.

When visiting, make sure you jump on the  legendary dolphin cruise , Jervis Bay Passage Tour and check out our review of the whale watching tour in Jervis Bay too!

Jervis Bay is a fantastic day trip from Sydney, you’ll be coming back time and time again! Just make sure you check out our popular  Jervis Bay Guide  before visiting!

How to get to Jervis Bay from Sydney By Car:  It takes 3 hours to drive there. By Public Transport:  Unfortunately there’s no public transport to Jervis Bay from Sydney 

28. Discover The Hidden Gems In Canberra

Southern Sydney / 3hr drive from Sydney

We were blown away by the amazing things to do in Canberra. Although everyone we spoke to always said ‘we weren’t missing out on much’, we were really surprised about how cool the city actually is. Expect amazing art galleries, some of the best we’ve seen, fantastic wine bars and great places to eat.

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Canberra and our Floriade Review as well before visiting.

29. Find The Best Waterfalls To Swim In Sydney

Various Sydney Spots

If you’re looking for some day trips from Sydney which involve finding some of the best wild swimming spots around, check out our  16 Best Waterfalls In Sydney To Swim  guide.

We’ve also found some of the  best secluded beaches in Sydney  as well that won’t have many or anyone else on them. You can thank us later for this!

30. Explore some of the best hikes in Sydney

If you’re looking to get out and explore more hidden gems in Sydney, you’ll find some of them in our  18 best hikes in Sydney  guide. These hikes are some of the best secluded places near Sydney and if we mentioned them all in this post, it would go on forever!

We hope our best day trips from Sydney has helped you plan your future getaways!

Looking for Weekend Getaways From Sydney?

Check out these articles to help you plan your weekends away.

45 Best Weekend Getaways From Sydney

15 Best Hiking & Camping Weekend Itineries In Sydney

How To Spend The Weekend Hiking In Blue Mountains

22 Romantic Getaways From Sydney

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If you found this post helpful, please share it on your social media pages 🙂

As someone who came to Australia from the UK, 20 years ago – this is a great list of day trips and recommendations, I will be using some of your research to plan trips when my relatives next visit – I love the fact that you look beyond the obvious, Bondi beach etc, which I never visit as a local – the list of walks you have are some of my favourite places and some new ones for me to try out too – thanks for the research and hard work pulling the VLOG and website together.

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Best Day Trips from Sydney for Families

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Are you looking for the very best day trips from Sydney NSW for families?  If yes – then read on, because in this guide we have listed all the best Sydney day trips.

Whether you’re a Sydney local, looking for weekend or school holiday ideas or visiting from out of town, we can help! After reading this detailed guide, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for some one-day Sydney excursions the whole family will love.

20 of the Best Day Trips from Sydney for Families

With most of our suggestions for day trips from Sydney, Australia, you can choose to make it a DIY and drive yourself or sit back and relax by booking one of the awesome Sydney day tours.

If you are looking for where kids eat free in Sydney or the best kid friendly pubs in Sydney , well you are in luck because we have those lists for you too!

1. Blue Mountains Day Trip

A Blue Mountains tour is one of the most well known day trips out of Sydney and for good reason! With lush green rainforests and steep ravines, the scenery is spectacular.

With attractions as close as a 2 hour drive away, it’s easy to take a self drive Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney. The best way to see everything on your Blue Mountains trip is to get a scenic pass that bundles together entry to the skywalk, cableways, railway and walkways.  With this pass you can see all the best attractions, plus you can even up grade to the hop on hop off bus pass so you don’t have to worry about parking at all the different attractions.

If you don’t have a vehicle in Sydney, there are some great Blue Mountains bus tours available which let you hop on and off at your own leisure. You can also keep the kids entertained, and make the most of your Blue Mountains one day trip, with a tour of the Jenolan caves, or a wildlife day tour.

If you’re looking for extra special Blue Mountains excursions, take the Parramatta River cruise from Sydney. Or even go for the all-inclusive Blue Mountains day tour that includes the railway, river cruise, cableways, walkways, skywalk and even a delicious two course lunch!

2. Hunter Valley Tours from Sydney

A Hunter Valley day trip from Sydney is a great way to get out of the city and see some of the surrounding countryside. Take a drive around and stop at some of the great wineries the region has to offer.

The easiest way to find the best spots to visit is on one of the many guided Hunter Valley tours from Sydney. A wine experience tour is one of the top Sydney day trip ideas for adults but the kids are welcome to tag along too.  Better still, why not take the kids on a gourmet food tour and let a professional chef guide you around some of the best spots to eat in the Hunter Valley.

3. One Day in Sydney City Tour

If you only have one day in Sydney – don’t panic – you can still see the highlights of Sydney in a day.  If you only have one day in Sydney a Sydney bus tour is a great way to see some of the most popular sights. Take one of the jam packed Sydney sightseeing tours and you’ll see things like the Opera House, North Head lookout, Milsons Point, Bondi beach and much more.

Treat yourself to an all inclusive Sydney city tour and you’ll even get entry into the Sea Life Aquarium and Wildlife Zoo.

4. Taronga Zoo

One of the best Sydney day trips for kids has to be a visit to Taronga Zoo. With over 350 animal species there is something for the whole family at this iconic Sydney attraction.  The kids will love seeing all the animals as well as the various shows on offer.

Taronga Zoo is only a 12 minute ferry ride from the CBD, making it a super easy one day trip from Sydney CBD. Make sure to book an all inclusive ticket to bundle your admission, ferry pass and sky safari tickets to get the best deal.

If you’re an animal lover and are on the lookout for more zoos, check out our article detailing the best kid-friendly zoos in Australia.

5. Illawara Fly Zip Line

The Illawara walkway makes for a great stop on self drive day trips around Sydney. It’s just 2 hours from the CBD and easy to find. The walkway is 30 meters above the ground and has impressive views over the rainforest canopy.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous the zipline tour will have you soaring through the treetops for over 2 hours of adrenaline filled fun.

6. Canberra

If you’re in Sydney for a while you could even take the kids to Canberra for a day trip.  At 3.5 hours from Sydney, while it does make for a long day trip, Canberra is still an achievable 1 day trip from Sydney.

While you could take a leisurely drive yourself, given it is such a long day trip why not sit back and let someone else do the hard work for you.  Taking one of the guided day tours from Sydney means you will get to see all the main attractions like the Australian War Museum, National Museum, Parliament House and more.

See the best museums in Canberra for kids here!

7. Port Stephens

Port Stephens shouldn’t be overlooked when planning your self-drive day tours from Sydney.   Things to do in Port Stephens include a visit to the Australian reptile park, a dolphin watching cruise, sandboarding and just enjoying the sites of the picturesque coastal town.

For the adventurous family, be sure to try the sandboarding experience.  No need to be an expert as the staff here will teach you everything you need to know.

You’re sure to have one of your top day trips from Sydney when you book a guided Port Stephens tour.  This guided tour includes all the best attractions in Port Stephens as well as transfers from Sydney.

8. Jervis Bay South Coast Cruise

A Jervis Bay coastal cruise is one of the best trips from Sydney for families that love being out on the water. Take in the beautiful coastline, unspoilt beaches and clear waters on your cruise down the southern coast.

Kids love animals and an eco dolphin tour is a great chance for them to keep a keen eye out for the hundreds of bottle nose dolphins living in the bay. During the months of May to November you may even be lucky enough to sot migrating humpback whales.

9. Worimi Sand Dune Quad Bike Adventure Tour

If you’re a thrill seeking family, a Worimi sand dune quad bike tour will make one of the greatest family day trips from Sydney.  It’s just a 2.5 hour drive from the CBD and is totally family friendly (kids from the age of 7 can join) with an expert guide and child sized quad bikes available.

When cruising along on the quad bikes you will learn about the local landscape and the aboriginal culture in the area.  The kids will love getting to use aboriginal tools to dig for fresh water as well as learn about bush medicine and food.

The tour also includes sandboarding too!

10. Australian Reptile Park

Another good day trip from Sydney for kids who love animals, that’s only an hours drive away, is the Australian Reptile Park.

Kids will love learning all about the exotic reptiles at the park and enjoy the chance to hand feed the resident kangaroos. With an adventure playground, café and BBQ facilities onsite, it’s one of the great places around Sydney for day trips with the kids.

11. Featherdale Wildlife Park

If you’re looking for a wildlife park that’s committed to conservation, Featherdale Wildlife Park is another one of the fun day trips Sydney has to offer.

Have a fun filled day watching native Australian animals and why not treat the kids to an up close encounter while you’re at it.

12. Symbio Wildlife Park

If you’re looking for attractions that are only short trips from Sydney, Symbio Wildlife Park is less than 50 minutes from the airport and has some of the best Australian and exotic wildlife.

The kids will love getting up close with the native species during one of the live presentations and the splash park is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

13. Snow Tour

From June to September, Thredbo Ski and Snowboard park can be reached by bus trips from Sydney. Leave the night before and arrive early in the morning in order to make the most of the one day tours from Sydney.

The park is perfect for beginners and equipment can be rented onsite. The whole family can take to the slopes to try their hand and skiing or snowboarding.

If you wanted to drive yourself to the park we would advise spending the night at a nearby hotel as you’re sure to be exhausted after a big day on the slopes.

14. Ku-ring-Gai Chase National Park

Fun day trips from Sydney should be jam packed with things to see and the Ku-ring-Gai Chase tour is just that. The national park is about an hour drive from Sydney. When you arrive you’ll take a 2.5 hour cruise to beaches only accessible by boat.

Enjoy exploring aboriginal heritage sights and learning about the culture and arts of the arks traditional people.

It’s one of the great day trips from Sydney for families who want to see something unique.

15. Whale Watching

A whale watching cruise is one of the easiest short day trips from Sydney. This cruise begins just a 5 minute walk from Circular Quay station. For instance, even if you just have 1 day in Sydney, this cruise is easy to fit into your itinerary.

Indoor and outdoor viewing areas are offered on this comfortable catamaran, therefore it’s a great all weather option.  

16. Horse Riding in the Snowy Mountains

If you have slightly older kids, a full days guided horse riding tour in the Snowy Mountains is one of the more unique day excursions from Sydney.

Spend a day exploring the rugged mountain terrain with an exert guide to show you around the many beautiful trails in the area.

17. Royal National Park

Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world and, if you’re looking for trips out of Sydney surrounded by nature, it’s a great option.

You could take a self drive tour along the Grand Pacific Drive or, better yet, take the pressure off and a guided day trip. You’ll get an expert guide who can take you on a 6km hike and show you some of the best waterfalls and native species.

18. Dangar Island

Just 55 minutes north of the city is Dangar Island, in the Hawkesbury River, where you can spend the day swimming, kayaking and hiking.

Days out from Sydney don’t get much better and you’ll feel like the city is a million miles away.  

If the kids can manage a longer car trip, Kiama is a 2 hour drive south of the city and one of the lesser known day trips outside Sydney.

With treetop walks, quiet uncrowded beaches and lush rainforest it’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.  

20. Helensburgh

Only 45kms south of Sydney is the small, friendly community of Helensburgh. This tiny town is surrounded by National Parks and a great spot for walks and getting back to nature.

The nearby Stanwell Park (10km away) is a great spot to enjoy a swim on one of the many beautiful beaches set against steep cliffs.

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If you are looking for more things to do with kids in New South Wales click here.

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Sydney Tours

Best Sydney Tours & Day Trips

Blessed with stacks of natural beauty and glorious sunny weather, Sydney enchants travellers from all over the world. Often mistaken for Australia’s capital, Sydney is the largest city in the country and usually the first stop for international visitors. With its natural harbour, spectacular beaches and buzzing nightlife, the city makes a great first impression. It is home to such world-renowned landmarks as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the beautiful Darling Harbour.

From the famous Bondi Beach to the iconic Circular Quay, there are plenty of things to see and do in Sydney. Jump on a day tour to visit the city’s stunning east coast beaches and take in the unique architecture and historical city sites. Get to know the history and customs of the Gadigal, the traditional custodians of the area, and learn about the city’s colonial past. Or just relax with a drink and soak up the vibe and views of the picturesque Sydney Harbour.

There are plenty of must-visit destinations outside of the city too. Take a Sydney Tour to discover the spectacular forests and towering cliffs of the Blue Mountains . Sample some of Australia’s best wines and dine on delicious regional produce in the Hunter Valley . Or strap on skis or a snowboard at Australia’s most popular alpine ski resorts in Thredbo.

Sightseeing Tours Australia is proud to present the very best Sydney Tours on offer anywhere in New South Wales .

Sydney Day Tours & Trips

Just a short trip from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Most famous for the iconic Three Sisters rock formations, the Blue Mountains are also home to spectacular waterfalls and walking trails that crisscross through the dense eucalypt forests.

For the ultimate day trip to the Blue Mountains, choose our 1 Day Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour . The trip includes a stop at Featherdale Wildlife Park where there’s a chance to get up close and personal with Aussie wildlife. Next is Scenic World , where you can enjoy a unique perspective of the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley from the sky in the Skyway, before returning to Sydney on a picturesque boat cruise to arrive in Sydney Harbour.

Vino lovers will enjoy a day trip from Sydney to the Hunter Valley to sample some of Australia’s premier wines. Day tours visit three or four local wineries for tastings of the area’s famous semillons, chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons and more. Enjoy the yummy local produce with a winery lunch amongst the vineyards and explore the area’s charming rural towns.

Explore Other Sydney Sightseeing Tours

When you are ready for your next adventure, join our 1 Day Port Stephens Tour . This trip will enchant you with Port Stephens ’ striking beauty, magnificent marine surroundings, and fun water-based activities. Highlights include a whale or dolphin watching cruise, sandboarding in Anna Bay, and meeting Australia’s most adorable wildlife at Walkabout Wildlife Park.

To explore even more of our crowd-favourite Sydney tours and day trips, browse them below!

Tours in Sydney

28 tours found

Essential Sydney Tour Package

See the best of Sydney with Blue Mountains Tour, Sydney Harbour Cruise & Sydney Opera House Tour.

Duration: 2 Days

Tour type: Large Coach; Boat/Cruise; Attraction

Available Now

Sydney Highlights Budget Package

Sydney highlights with a Blue Mountains Tour, Sydney Harbour Cruise & Sydney Opera House Tour.

Duration: 1 Day

Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour from Sydney

Meet Australia's cutest critters and admire the stunning Blue Mountains with Scenic World tickets!

Tour type: Attraction

Blue Mountains Day Tour from Sydney

Spend the day exploring the Blue Mountains and meet Australia's cutest wildlife with a local guide.

Hunter Valley Tour Wine & Foodie Experience

Duck into cellar doors, try local cuisine and learn about the wines of this iconic region.

Tour type: Large Coach

Thredbo Snow Tour from Sydney

Take to the slopes and explore the ski town at one of Australia's favourite Alpine villages.

Sydney City Walking Tour

Learn about Sydney's history on a guided tour through the historic Rocks district.

Duration: 2 Hours

Tour type: Walking; Small Group

Hunter Valley Wine Tour

Taste your way through Australia's oldest wine-making region, including a delicious cafe lunch.

Tour type: Small Group

Blue Mountains Walking Tour

Visit the most beautiful natural wonders of the Blue Mountains on this local, fun small group day trip with fellow…

Tour type: Walking

Half Day Sydney Brewery Tasting Tour

Join us for a fun afternoon of tastings as we visit and tour 3 local breweries in Sydney.

Duration: 3 Hours

Sydney City Bike Tour

Explore Syndey's parks, harbours, and iconic sites while cycling around the city.

Duration: 4 Hours

Tour type: Cycling

• 1 Day Port Stephens Tour

Search for dolphins and experience the thrill of sandboarding on this action-packed one-day tour!

Tour type: Small Group; Boat/Cruise

Sydney to Canberra Day Tour

Spend the day experiencing the highlights of Canberra as you explore the nation’s capital city.

Half Day Sydney City Bus Tour

Discover the best of Sydney on our 3 hour bus tour.

Private Group Hunter Valley Tours

Explore the Hunter Valley your way with an exclusive, personalised tour for you and your friends. 

Tour type: Private Tour

Sunset Blue Mountains Tour

Watch the sun dip behind the horizon, bathing the Blue Mountains in a beautiful glow.

Hunter Valley Winery Tour from Hunter Valley

Sample some of Australia's finest wines on this day tour with pick-up direct from the Hunter Valley!

Sydney Sightseeing with Harbour Cruise

Discover the most iconic sights in Sydney both from the streets and from the water!

Duration: 5 Hours

Tour type: Large Coach; Boat/Cruise

Currently Unavailable

Sydney Half Day Tour

Discover the origins of this diverse city, see the best sights and watch the surfers at Bondi.

2 Day Sydney to Melbourne Tour

Explore Australia's vibrant capital, Canberra, as you travel through the countryside to Melbourne.

Tour type: Small Group; Large Coach

Sydney to Adelaide Tour

Explore Canberra, Melbourne and the amazing landscapes & wildlife in between as you head to Adelaide.

Duration: 4 Days

2 Day Melbourne to Sydney Tour

Stay overnight in Australia's capital, Canberra, as you journey through stunning scenery to Sydney!

1 Day Jenolan Caves and Blue Mountains Tour

1 day tour from Sydney to explore the Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves including guided cave tour.

2 Day Blue Mountains & Jenolan Caves

This tour is packed with rainforest walks, wildlife encounters, amazing views, and cave exploration!

Adelaide to Sydney Tour

Explore the Grampians, Great Ocean Road, Melbourne, and Canberra on this epic 4-day journey!

Duration: 5 Days

Perth to Sydney Tour

15-day journey including beach stops, wildlife encounters and sandboarding before you reach Sydney.

Duration: 15 Days

Sydney to Perth Tour

Explore the natural & cultural wonders along the south coast between these two great Aussie cities.

Duration: 14 Days

Sydney to Darwin Tour

See Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide, and the Australian Outback on a 12-day adventure to Darwin!

What Our Customers Are Saying about Sydney Tours

Sydney tours information, sydney tour photos.

Sydney Tour Map

Frequently Asked Questions about Sydney Tours

What are the best day trips from sydney.

• 1 Day Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour
• 1 Day Hunter Valley Tour

What are the best city tours in Sydney?

• 1 Day Sydney Sightseeing Tour with Sydney Harbour Cruise

What are the best things to do in and around Sydney?

• Blue Mountains
• Port Stephens
• Scenic World
• Hunter Valley

What is your cancellation policy?

If you can no longer make your tour on your reserved travel date, please contact us to cancel or postpone your trip. Cancellations will be subject to our cancellation policy . We’ll try to accommodate any date changes made at least two days before travel. Dates changes are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. Please contact our reservations team regarding any changes to your booking.

Will the tour be cancelled if it’s raining?

Tours will proceed rain, hail or shine. Please ensure you are dressed appropriately for the weather on your date of travel.

Is lunch included on your Sydney tours?

Generally, lunch is not included on our Sydney tours . On full day tours, you will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch. You’re also welcome to bring your own lunch, but cold storage facilities will not be available on board the bus. Check the What’s Included tab on the tour page to see if lunch is included on your tour.

Are children permitted on your Sydney tours?

Yes! Children can join our Sydney tours. Reduced prices and minimum ages may apply. Please check the tour page for information relating to each tour.

How can I make a reservation?

You can make a reservation online by clicking the Book Now button on the tour page. You can also make a reservation over the phone by calling 1300 661 225 . Payment by Visa or Mastercard is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation.

Top Attractions near Sydney

• Blue Mountains Botanic Garden
• Blue Mountains Heritage Centre
• Bondi Beach
• Central Coast NSW
• Chinatown Sydney
• Circular Quay
• Darling Harbour
• Evans Lookout
• Featherdale Wildlife Park
• Govetts Leap
• Jamison Valley
• Jenolan Caves
• Jenolan Caves Blue Lake
• Katoomba Falls
• Kings Cross
• Kings Tableland
• Leura Cascades
• Manly Beach
• Milsons Point
• Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
• North Coast NSW
• North Head Lookout
• Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney
• Scenic Railway
• Shark Island
• South Coast NSW
• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Sydney Opera House
• Sydney Tower Eye
• Taronga Zoo Sydney
• The Blue Mountains
• Three Sisters
• Wentworth Falls

Related Articles about Sydney

• Bondi’s Spectacular Sculpture by the Sea Celebration
• How to get around in Sydney?
• The Best Alternative Activities in Sydney
• Top 6 Day Trips from Sydney
• What is Sydney famous for?
• What Tours You Can Still Enjoy in Sydney
• What’s open for Sydney in Summer?

Things to Do near Sydney

• Blue Mountains Tours
• Hunter Valley Tours
• Canberra Tours
• Port Stephens Tours

Other Great Australian Destinations

• Melbourne Tours
• Great Ocean Road Tours
• Phillip Island Tours
• Cairns Tours
• Great Barrier Reef Tours
• Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation Tours
• Kakadu Tours
• Uluru Tours

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8 Fantastic Day Trips For When You Just Need To Escape Sydney

From hidden spots near the city to sandy beaches and coastal towns.

Sydney offers endless opportunities within the city, but it’s also a great spot to explore smaller towns on the NSW coastline. There are heaps of stunning day trips around town loaded with gorgeous landscapes, brilliant cafes and innovative street art. Whether you’re after a secluded spot or a small town by the beach, you’ll find a variety of spots for when you need a break from the city life. Here are some of our favourite day trips from Sydney.

1. Scotland Island

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If you don’t want to go too far from the city, plan a trip to Scotland Island. Just about a forty-minute drive north of Sydney, we highly recommend getting the ferry to Scotland Island from Church Point In Pittwater. The route is lovely with picturesque views all around. Scotland Island is pretty small but a great getaway if you’re just looking to unwind and get close to nature. There’s also a walking track around the entire island which doesn’t take longer than an hour.

2. Long Jetty

When it comes to day trips from Sydney, the town of Long Jetty is an essential destination. Located on the Central Coast it’s trendy little town, filled with cafes, souvenir shops and some amazing street art. Long Jetty is also relatively close to Sydney by public transport. The best option would be to take the Newcastle train to Gosford and then transfer to a B21 to Long Jetty. The entire journey shouldn’t take longer than 2.5-3 hours. If you’re driving, you’ll be there in less than 1.5 hours.

SEE ALSO: The Secret Sydney Guide To Jervis Bay

Warm, welcoming and gorgeous, Berry is the perfect country getaway not far from Sydney. Be sure to visit the Seven Mile Beach National Park for some sun, sea and sand. For all the foodies, Salmon & Co. is the place to visit for their delightful waffles and fantastic coffee. Figbird Café and Deli is another option for some delicious lunch and drinks along with some cosy vibes. Take the train from Town Hall Station to Wolli Creek and then change to the train to Kiama transferring to Berry Station if you’re taking public transport. By road, the journey is just 2 hours.

4. Glow worm tunnel in Lithgow

For a magical escape, we highly recommend the Lithgow Glow Worm Tunnel. The tunnel is located in the expansive area of the Blue Mountains and there are only a small number of ways to get there. The best way to make the most of the adventure, however, is by joining a guided night tour with a certified instructor . The experience inside the caves is absolutely magical with hundreds of glow worms lighting up the tunnel.

5. Newcastle

If you’re in the process of planning some exciting day trips out of Sydney, you’ll want to add Newcastle to your list. It is an incredibly popular getaway and rightfully so. It has a great food and café scene, lots of fun outdoor activities, stunning beaches and a rich historical landscape. Jump on the train at Central and it will take you to Broadmeadow Station. From there, you just have to walk a few minutes to reach Newcastle. By road, this popular destination takes just about 2 hours to reach.

SEE ALSO: 10 Brilliant Glamping Experiences In NSW

6. Port Stephens

Port Stephens is an absolute paradise for sports lovers and adventure enthusiasts and a must-visit when it comes to day trips from Sydney. When you’re in town, make sure to stop by Nelson Bay for some spectacular sunset views. Australia’s largest sand dunes are also located in Port Stephens and you can explore them on camelback or on quad bikes. It’s a thrilling adventure and a surreal feeling to see the beach on one side and the desert on another. The drive from the CBD just takes about 2.5 hours.

7. Wollongong and the Grand Pacific Drive

Day trips from Sydney don’t get better than this. The Grand Pacific Drive is probably one of the most Instagrammed destinations in NSW.

Just about 80 kms from Sydney, Wollongong is the perfect getaway and the route takes you along the Grand Pacific Drive which is an added bonus to visit. Pristine beaches, stunning coasts and great food, it’s also close enough to do the trip out of town and back. By road you would reach Wollongong in about 1.5 hours. You could also get a direct train from Town Hall to Wollongong Station and get there in under two hours.

8. Figure 8 Pools 

Located just south of Sydney at the Royal National Park, the Figure 8 Pools are quite an experience.

Figure Eight Pools are on a rock ledge south of Burning Palms Beach in Royal National Park. You can’t drive straight to the pools, so you need to be ready for a long walk. We have a complete guide on what to do at the Figure 8 Pools, where to go and how to get there.

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m The next tour with availabl e seats is THE 6-DAY NEW ENGLAND REGION EXPLORER The detailed brochure for this tour is now online. To view the brochure, please click here .

  Travel by Luxury Coach to Visit:

Sea-side resorts, farms & orchards, gardens & galleries, waterfalls & lookouts, historic villages & towns, museums & historic homes, wineries, breweries, fromageries, national parks & iconic landscapes.

  Travel by Luxury Coach to Experience:

River cruises, harbour cruises, christmas in july, steam train rides, fruit & berry picking, dolphin watch cruises, annual events & festivals, hunter valley gardens christmas lights.

  Travel by Luxury Coach to Shop at:

Farm g ates, craft markets, factory outlets, shopping malls, produce markets, popular tourist venues, arts, craft & fashion shops, chocolate & confectionary outlets.

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Allstarr coaches, priest's coaches, crowne chauffeurs, marquee limousines, high class limousines, limousine connections.

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Blue Mountains Tours

From sydney.

Our guided sightseeing tours to Blue Mountains are unique and authentic and the best way to spend the day with nature if you are visiting Sydney!

Why to choose Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney?

Visit Blue Mountains

About blue mountains, explore blue mountains.

Looking for other Sydney tour options rather Blue Mountains day tour? 

We offer all Sydney tours including Sydney City private tours ,  Hunter Valley wine tours , Southern Highland & Kangaroo valley country excursions , Port Stephens Dolphin watching day trips , Koala & Kangaroo encounters , and Australian pearl experiences. 

Blue Mountains Tours - Itineraries

Selecting a day trip itinerary to the Blue Mountains from Sydney is not easy for a first-time traveller. And that’s why we have created four bespoke excursions that cover various attractions of Blue Mountains. Get in touch with us today if you want to tailor-make your day trip to Blue Mountains that gives the best and memorable experience of your Australian vacation.

Blue Mountains Day Tours with Koala & Kangaroo Encounters

A full- day trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains and the most popular tour. The main attractions include a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park, Lincoln’s Rock Lookout, Three Sisters in Katoomba , and Scenic World.

Private & small group tours

Blue Mountains Day Tours with Boutique Winery Visit

A full- day trip departs from Sydney to Blue Mountains and is available only during the weekends. The tour visits Three Sisters Rock formation, Govetts Leap lookout, and wine-tasting

Blue Mountains & Jenolan Caves Day Tours

This is the most adventurous day trip we have in our Blue Mountains tour portfolio and not for the faint-hearted. On average, a traveller has to walk up 500 plus stairs when you are in Jenolan caves.

Blue Mountains Sunset & Twilight Tours

Do you want to see the disappearance of the sun from the Blue Mountains? Book this tour online and avoid the large bus crowd during the day in the Blue Mountains and enjoy the magnificent view on your phase.

Glow Worm Tour Blue Mountains 

A unique private day tour to the Blue Mountains that highlights resident glowworms in an old rail tunnel at the Wollemi National Park.

Private Tour Price from A$1500 onwards per group

Tour Details

Autumn Day Tours to Blue Mountains 

A highly seasonal day trip to the Blue Mountains to see the iconic Three Sister lookout and delicious trees become a sea of brilliant red, yellow and flame orange.

Private Tour Price from A$945 onwards per group

Tour reviews of Blue Mountains Tours

Planning a large group sightseeing tour to Blue Mountains from Sydney?

Main attractions of blue mountains, australia.

Three Sisters

Scenic World

koala encounters

Kangaroo Handfeeding

Jenolan Caves

Everglades Gardens

Lincoln's Rock

Katoomba falls

Govetts Leap

Pulpit Rock

Blue mountains tours inclusions, door-to-door pick-up and return.

We offer free pick up and drop off services from your accommodation within a 25 km radius of Sydney CBD

Free refreshments

Unlimited chilled bottled water available for you in all our vehicles and throughout the day

Flexible cancellation policy

Our flexible cancellation policy offers you peace of mind to book your trip

Visit Three Sisters

All our day trip itineraries visit the main attraction of Blue Mountains; The Three Sisters Rock Formation .

Knowledgeable guides

All our Sydney tour guides are experts in the industry who have completed over 50-day trips to the blue mountains.

AC transportation 

We use air-conditioned and near new vehicles in our fleet for all tours depart from Sydney to Blue Mountains.

Blue Mountains Day Trips Travel Guide

The Most Spectacular Waterfalls near the Blue Mountains

Koala | Facts | Habitat | Diet

Best Local Markets in the Blue Mountains

Frequently asked questions (faq) of blue mountains day trips from sydney.

The Blue Mountains , famed for its endless eucalyptus (gum tree) forests, is home to all four different types of eucalyptus trees found in Australia. These trees are found not only in dedicated natural forest areas, but grow in canyons, ridges, cliffs, and surround the myriad waterfalls in the region. The high temperatures cause these gum trees to emit a fine mist discharge created from the eucalyptus oil from its leaves. This oil mist then combines with dust particles and water vapour as it rises to surround the area giving it an overall blue tint, especially when the sun shines high and bright. Thus, when viewed from a distance , especially Sydney city, the Blue Mountains look very blue indeed!

Blue Mountains are nearly 100 km or a 1.5-hour drive towards the West of Sydney. However, if you are taking the M4 motorway on a Blue Mountains day trip (enter via Wattle Street, Sydney), you would be able to reduce the time in one third.

People visit the Blue Mountains throughout the year. However, we highly recommended visiting the Blue Mountains from January to March. These months have an average temperature is around the 16 Celsius mark, so, it is not cold or too hot. Always check the weather at the last minute before visiting this UNESCO world heritage site. If you happen to visit on a rainy or gloomy day, your chances to see most of the lookouts are minimal.

It is debatable. There are many attractions, things to do , and quite difficult to cover in a day trip. However, you will be able to cover the most famous attractions, for example, Three Sisters, Scenic World, and Govett’s Leap on a full day trip to Blue Mountains from Sydne y.

It is depending on the season that you are planning to visit the Blue Mountains via a day trip . Summer months (December, January & February) get warm and recommended to wear comfortable and breathable clothes in our Blue Mountains tours. Also, wear comfortable shoes if you are planning to hike, for example, the Blue Mountains sunset tours included a bushwalk to Katoomba or Leura Cascade . A jumper, coat, and scarf (winter clothing) recommended during the winter months (June to August) if you are planning to visit the Blue Mountains.

Yes, however, it is not possible to see them by a day trip to the Blue Mountains . Koalas sightings have recorded by many overnight campers in the areas of Grose Vale and Bilpin.

You can spot wild kangaroos from a Blue Mountains Sydney Tour by getting a detour to the Euroka camper ground from Glenbrook. If you want to hand-feed kangaroos, the best option is to make a stop at the Featherdale wildlife park near Black town.

This is a little trick often offer by big bus charters to travellers and we do not recommend this option after a long day in Blue Mountains. However, we can certainly arrange this. Most big bus drivers found its hard to drop individual travellers to Sydney CBD hotels on return due to evening traffic and its time-consuming. So, offering a river cruise ticket is the cheapest option for them, but not convenient from the customer point of view as the traveller has to catch a taxi from Circular Quay to the accommodation after a long tied day on a Blue Mountains tour. 

Absolutely! A day trip to the Blue Mountains in New South Wales is definitely worth it. The region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged cliffs, lush forests, and mesmerizing waterfalls. You can explore various scenic lookouts like Echo Point, where you’ll find the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, and take in the breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as bushwalking along numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, visiting the charming town of Leura with its boutique shops and cafes, or experiencing the Scenic World attractions, which offer thrilling rides and panoramic views of the landscape.

The Blue Mountains are only a couple of hours away from Sydney, making it very accessible for a day trip. The beauty and natural wonders you’ll encounter make it a worthwhile destination, even if you have limited time.

The length of a Blue Mountains tour can vary depending on the type of tour you choose and the activities involved. Tours can range from half-day trips (around 4-5 hours) to full-day experiences (8-10 hours). Some tours might include activities like hiking, visiting scenic lookouts, exploring waterfalls, or even taking a ride on the Scenic Railway or Skyway. It’s best contact us if you need a customise itinerary of the tour, you’re interested in.

The amount of time you might want to spend in the Blue Mountains, NSW, can vary depending on your interests and what you’d like to explore. If you’re planning to visit the main sights and do some popular activities like visiting the Three Sisters, Scenic World, hiking, and exploring the towns in the area, a few days, like a weekend trip, could be sufficient.

However, if you’re an avid hiker or nature enthusiast and wish to explore more trails, visit lesser-known spots, or simply take your time to soak in the scenery, you might want to plan a longer trip, perhaps four to five days. This would allow for a more leisurely exploration of the region, including its various walking tracks, waterfalls, and quaint towns.

Ultimately, consider your interests and the pace at which you’d like to experience the Blue Mountains when deciding how much time to allocate for your visit.

• Cancellation policy – 2 weeks’ notice; full refund. 7 to 14 days of departure – 50% cancellation fee. Less than 7 days, loss of full fee. Online transaction fees will not refund in any circumstance .
• Payment – Need to have full payment at the time of confirmation.
• Tour pricing – we have per group tour pricing model. Hence, no discounts for children or concession cardholders. 

Blue Mountains Private Tours inquiry form:

Tour duration – 8 hours

Pick up and drop off  – Sydney CBD

Departure from Sydney Return to Sydney –

The tour pick-up time will be communicated to you after the booking confirmation.

Tour highlights – One of the first built stone arch bridges – Heritage listed Lennox bridge, Breathtaking Lincoln’s Rock, Echo Point, Three Sisters lookout, and Glowworm tunnel.

Inclusions – Expert guide, 4WD SUV, USB charging on-board, bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off

Transport – Travel in a modern 4WD. The access road won’t be suitable for a 2WD vehicle.

Maximum 3 passengers only for this private tour to Glow Worm Tunnel. Uneven surface required physical strength to reach the tunnel. 

Exclusions  – Food and beverages.

Tour itinerary – Sydney pick up, Lennox Bridge, Breathtaking Lincoln’s Rock, Echo Point, Three Sisters lookout, and Gloworm tunnel, return to Sydney.

What to wear – Jacket in the cooler months, Footwear with good grip, comfortable walking trousers/shorts, camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.

Prices – A$ 1500 per private group of 3 people.

Contact details  – (+61) 0498507873 or [email protected]

Cancellation policy  – 48 hours before departure full refund

Tour duration – 7 hours

Pick up and drop off – Sydney CBD

Tour pick-up time will be communicated to you after the booking confirmation.

Tour highlights – One of the first built stone arch bridges – Heritage listed Lennox bridge, Breathtaking Lincoln’s Rock, Echo Point, Three Sisters lookout, and Windybridge garden for vivid Autumn colours.

Inclusions – Expert guide, luxury people mover, entry to Windyridge gardens, USB charging on-board, bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off

Exclusions – Food and beverages.

Tour itinerary – Sydney pick up, Lennox Bridge, Breathtaking Lincoln’s Rock, Echo Point, Three Sisters lookout, and Windybridge garden for vivid Autumn colours, return to Sydney.

What to wear – Jacket in the cooler months, comfortable footwear, comfortable walking trousers/shorts, camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.

Contact details – (+61) 0498507873 or [email protected]

Cancellation policy – 48 hours before departure full refund

Departure from Sydney Return to Sydney –

Tour pick-up time will be communicated to you after the booking confirmation. If the sunset is between 5 to 6. 30 pm, the tour departs at 12 pm from Sydney. Departure will be adjusted to 2 pm if the sunset falls between 6.30 to 8 pm. You will be contacted by our customer service team with further info.

Inclusions – Expert guide, luxury people mover, USB charging on-board, bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off

Exclusions – Evening snack/food and activity fees

Tour itinerary – Featherdale Park, Three Sisters, Govetts Leap & Boars Head Lookout (this may change due to daylight and sunset times)

What to wear – Jacket in the cooler months, comfortable footwear, comfortable walking trousers/shorts, camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.

Tour duration – 10 hours

Departure from Sydney – 7.00 am

Return to Sydney – 5.30 pm

Exclusions – Jenolan Caves entry tickets and lunch

Tour itinerary – Three Sisters, Jenolan Caves, lunch, spot wild kangaroos, and the possibility of Govetts Leap lookout if time permits

What to wear – Jacket in the cooler months, comfortable footwear, comfortable walking trousers/shorts, camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc

Tour duration – 9 hours

Departure from Sydney – 7.30 am

Return to Sydney – 5.00 pm

Inclusions – Wildlife park entry, wine tasting, expert guide, luxury people mover, USB charging on-board, hotel pick-up, and drop-off and bottled water

Exclusions – Lunch and other activity fees

Tour itinerary – Featherdale Wildlife Park, Three Sisters, Wine tasting, and Lunch

Inclusions – Featherdale park entry tickets, expert guide, luxury people mover, USB charging on-board, bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off

Exclusions – Scenic world entry and lunch

Tour itinerary – Featherdale Park, Three Sisters, Scenic World, Lunch, & Boars Head Lookout

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

New South Wales Tours & Trips

Find your adventure through New South Wales. Located on the east coast of Australia , the state straddles Queensland , Victoria , and parts of South Australia. Travel to Sydney, Melbourne, Newcastle and the most sought-after destinations around the region.

35 New South Wales tour packages with 238 reviews

• Walking Adventure
• Christmas & New Year

Sydney to Brisbane Experience: Bushwalks & Surfing

Amazing, got to visit some amazing places all along the east coast, and not to mention out tour guide was amazing!

Sydney to Brisbane Adventure (7 Days) (from Byron Bay to Tweed Heads)

• In-depth Cultural

UltimateOz - Gap Year | ULTIMATE

The first few days of the tour were great with meeting everyone and going to base camp. Chloe is such a great guide and made the experience even better!

• €35 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Sydney & Blue Mountains

8 Day Koala Adventure Tour: Sydney > Brisbane

Port Stephens From Sydney - 4 days

Well organized with great events along with plenty of personal time to further explore.

The Ultimate Australia Self-Drive Experience

• Coach / Bus

Capital Blooms (3 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mountains, Wine and Wildlife 4 Day Flashpacker Adventure Tour

• Hiking & Trekking

Six-Foot Track - 4 Day Fully Supported Hike or Sightseeing Tour - Bunkhouse Accommodation

• €70 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Six-Foot Track - 4 Day Fully Supported Hike or Sightseeing Tour - Camping

Tour de NSW South Coast

8 Day Galah Select Tour: Brisbane > Sydney

Best of Australia

What people love about new south wales tours.

As far as tours go, it's great to have others to enjoy with. Wake Up was a nice hostel with a great breakfast included the first day. That day I chose to take the ferry to Manly where our tour guide Georgia showed us shopping, the beach, and this great acai bowl restaurant. From Sydney we took the 9 hour train ride to surf x camp in arrawara. The teepee I slept in was so cool. The surf lesson was great...but we only had less than 1 hour surfing in the water, if we wanted more we had to pay more, in the afternoon we went for a walk along the beach with some local indiginous people to learn about the plants of the area and try some, we stopped at the campground to find kangaroo. The food at surf X was good. surf x still hasn't sent us the link for the surfing photos though. Byron Bay is a great surf town, although I didn't surf Wake Up had free surfboards available...I had purchased the option to kayak with dolphins and didn't feel like surfing after that. the town had lots of little shops and restaurants and a walk to the lighthouse and furthest easterly point in Australia. The next day we went to Brisbane, after a koala bushwalk where we didn't see koala. In Brisbane check out Southbank and Queen street after dark.

Amazing experience, everything ran smoothly, and I couldn’t recommend it any more than - DO IT! Best time of my life on this tour, action packed days and it was so good to see different parts of Sydney and the wider area you might not have normally. Great value for money!

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Blenheim Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

12-day road trip through New South Wales

Venture beyond landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, and you’ll be rewarded with world-class wineries, stunning white-sand beaches, and once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters.

By Alissa Jenkins

Its icons are incredible, but  New South Wales  offers much more than the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Driving north from  Sydney , this 12-day circuit takes you to some of Australia’s most beloved beach destinations, across to vibrant wine-producing regions, into ancient forests and south to dazzling white-sand beaches before looping back up to Sydney, the Harbour City.

What to expect

• Swim with wild dolphins in beautiful Port Stephens
• Sample world-class wines from New South Wales’ most renowned wineries
• Explore the Blue Mountain’s dramatic canyons and Jurassic rainforest
• Time: 12 days
• Distance: 1,800 kilometres (1,118 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Sydney
• Price: $$$$

Day 1: Sydney to Newcastle

The Boathouse Palm Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Filippo Rivetti, Destination NSW

Did you know?

The waves at Merewether Beach are so good, it hosts an international surf competition, Surfest , every year.

Depart Sydney early and drive for an hour northeast to Palm Beach , situated at the top of a long peninsula and surrounded by clear waters and leafy, mansion-studded streets. At the far end of the beach, take the 800-metre (0.5-mile) walking trail to  Barrenjoey Lighthouse and lightkeeper’s cottages for panoramic views over Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park , before lunch at local favourite,  The Boathouse Palm Beach .

Once you’ve eaten, set the GPS for the 2.5-hour drive via the M1 to Newcastle , Australia’s second-oldest city. See why it’s a world-famous surfing destination with a swim at  Merewether Beach , or skip the waves at heritage-listed ocean pool,  Bogey Hole , before a Mediterranean-inspired dinner at popular seaside restaurant  Rustica . Stay overnight at Newcastle’s award-winning  The Lucky Hotel , a historic, renovated pub home to 30 boutique rooms with modern furnishings and luxury bedding.

Day 2: Newcastle to Port Stephens

Sand Dune Adventures at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, New South Wales © Tourism Australia

Kick-start the day with family-friendly fun at  TreeTop Adventure Park , set among the Australian bush about 30 minutes west of Newcastle. Here, you can climb, weave and fly through the tree tops on self-guided rope courses and zip lines.

After your feet are back in solid ground, continue to drive an hour northeast to the stunning seaside destination of Port Stephens , renowned for its long sandy beaches and the vast  Stockton Sand Dunes — the largest moving dunes in the southern hemisphere. Spend the afternoon on a sand dune safari, which you can experience via 4WD or quad bike tour, or try sand boarding as you surf down the massive 40-metre (130-feet) high dunes.

At night, stay at  The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens, with a range of luxurious, nautical-inspired suites, as well as two waterfront restaurants that showcase locally-sourced produce.

Day 3: Port Stephens to Hunter Valley

Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Begin the day with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure — swimming with wild dolphins in the beautiful Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park. With wetsuits, masks and snorkels provided, as well as a light breakfast, guests also have the option to stay dry and watch these magical creatures from the boat or climb into the water for a profound yet playful wildlife encounter.

Back on land, drive 90 minutes west to one of Australia’s leading wine regions, the Hunter Valley . Renowned for producing excellent semillon and chardonnay, spend the afternoon driving or cycling between the valley’s prominent cellar doors, taste testing the talents of winemaking heavyweights like Audrey Wilkinson ,  Harkham Wines , and  Krinklewood Biodynamic Vineyard . For those who prefer beer or spirits,  Ironbark Hill Brewhouse and  Hunter Distillery are also worth a visit. You can also enjoy fine dining and boutique accommodation at many of the Hunter’s wineries, such as  Bimbadgen ,  Tinonee Vineyard Estate and  Whispering Brook .

Day 4: Hunter Valley to Mudgee

Cheese and charcuterie, Mudgee, New South Wales © James Horan, Destination NSW

Before you leave Mudgee, stop by High Valley for a cheese tasting and some delicious edible souvenirs. 

Pack your binoculars and a picnic of Hunter Valley produce to drive 2.5 hours west to  Lees Pinch lookout in the picturesque  Goulburn River National Park . Accessible via an easy one-kilometre (0.6-mile) walking track, there are viewing areas that take in the lush forest, flowing river and sandstone gorge below. Keep watch for native wildlife such as wallabies, wombats, and birds of prey soaring above.

After lunch, continue driving one hour southwest to the charming colonial township of Mudgee , another one of New South Wales’ great winemaking regions. Here, summer is prime time for cherry picking at Mudgee’s delightful  Roth Family Orchard , where you can spend the afternoon picking your own fruit.

In the evening, reserve a table at the award-winning  Zin House restaurant , and enjoy a memorable dinner overlooking vineyards and the restaurant’s organic garden, where much of the produce is grown. Sample more of the region’s best wines from the cobblestone courtyard of  Alby & Esthers wine bar, then walk just ten minutes to Mudgee’s stylish  Perry Street Hotel , with 13 modern suites available.

Day 5: Mudgee to Orange

Vineyard, Orange, New South Wales © Taste Orange

Start the morning with a 2.5-hour drive south to Orange , also popular among travellers for its impressive wine industry and abundance of food producers – don’t miss  Patina ,  Philip Shaw and  Swinging Bridge wineries.

If you’d rather spend your day outdoors, explore the mysterious Borenore Caves , 20 minutes west of Orange. There are easy walking trails around the Tunnel Cave and Arch Cave, just a short walk from the Borenore picnic area, where you can take in these unusual rock formations and their black, orange, and yellow striped markings.

Next, sample Orange’s delicious dining scene with a special dinner at the eminent  Lolli Redini restaurant, famed for its Italian and French-influenced menu. Afterwards, relax at  de Russie Boutique Hotel , with beautifully-appointed suites promising plush bedding and modern amenities.

Day 6: Orange to Katoomba

Scenic World's aerial cable car, Katoomba, Blue Mountains, New South Wales © Scenic World

Venture two hours east into the heart of Australia’s iconic Blue Mountains , arriving at Katoomba. Surrounded by plunging canyons and awe-inspiring rock formations, see this awesome landscape in all its glory at  Scenic World . Board the  Scenic Railway , the steepest passenger railway in the world, and descend into the spectacular Jamison Valley in a glass-bottomed carriage. At the bottom, stroll the 2.4-kilometre (1.5-mile)  Scenic Walkway , taking you on an elevated boardwalk through Jurassic rainforest. On the return trip, glide between cliff tops, suspended 270 metres (885 feet) above ancient ravines, on the Scenic Skyway . With 360-degree views, see renowned local landmarks such as Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters rock formation, and beyond.

For a more soothing afternoon, enjoy high tea at  The Hydro Majestic Hotel — a revitalised historic property, boasting Art Deco architecture and magnificent views over the Megalong Valley. You can also stay overnight in one of 67 regal guest rooms that combine the hotel’s glamorous past with modern comforts.

Day 7: Katoomba to Bilpin

Hillbilly Cider, Bilpin, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Follow the scenic roads that weave north from Katoomba to the  Blue Mountains Botanic Garden . Take a free guided tour around the 28 hectares (69 acres) of breathtaking, cool-climate gardens, or explore on your own. Continue driving a further 20 minutes to the fruit-growing village of Bilpin, where you can stop at  Bilpin Springs Orchard and pick your own assortment of fresh apples, oranges, pears, peaches and plums — juicy snacks for the day ahead. Don't miss a stop at  Hillbilly Cider , which serves up simple ciders made with Bilpin apples in a quaint shed overlooking the orchards.

Next, drive an hour north into the inspiring wilderness of World Heritage-listed  Wollemi National Park . Home to spectacular canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers and tranquil forests, there are many bushwalks to explore, such as  Bob Turners Track . This six-kilometre (3.7-mile) loop takes you along the beautiful Colo River, where you can cool off with a swim. Then finish the day with a rejuvenating stay in one of the cottages at  Rustic Spirit in Kurrajong Heights, or treat the whole family to an elegant farmhouse getaway at  Suzarosa in Berambing.

Family road tripping on the South Coast

Day 8: Bilpin to Bowral

Green Lane, Bowral, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Farewell the majestic Blue Mountains and drive two hours south to the sophisticated centre of the Southern Highlands , Bowral. Home to picturesque gardens and popular wineries, Bowral was also the home of legendary Australian cricket batsman, Sir Donald Bradman. Visit the  Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame , which not only celebrates ‘The Don’, who is still widely regarded as the greatest batsman of all time, but also features interactive exhibits, significant memorabilia, the origins of cricket, and how the game has evolved over time.

Spend the rest of the afternoon trawling the antique shops, galleries, and speciality stores that adorn Bowral’s town centre, including  Dirty Jane’s and Lancelot Hill Antiques.

For dinner, head to Harry's on Green Lane to sample their delicious menu with local Southern Highland wine. Suitably full, retire at one of Bowral’s many dreamy stays, including  Peppers Craigieburn or  The Hidden Door Bowral .

Day 9: Bowral to Canberra

National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra

After a wholesome breakfast at  Raw & Wild , drive two hours southwest to Australia’s innovative capital city, Canberra . A cosmopolitan mix of world-class museums, gourmet dining precincts and kangaroo-dotted reserves, there’s no shortage of attractions to visit. Among them is the vast  Lake Burley Griffin in the city’s centre, with more than 40 kilometres (25 miles) of shoreline to walk or cycle around.

Spend the afternoon perusing your choice of incredible national landmarks overlooking the lake, including the home of Australian politics,  Parliament House , and the  National Gallery of Australia , with 150,000 artworks and counting. Families will especially love  Questacon , housing more than 200 interactive exhibits relating to science and technology.

Stay overnight at the uber contemporary  East Hotel , situated moments from  Manuka Oval — Canberra’s premier cricket venue.

Day 10: Canberra to Jervis Bay

Picnic by Hyams Beach Hampers, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Depart the nation’s capital early for a 2.5-hour drive east to the stunning seaside wonderland of Jervis Bay . Stop in Huskisson for lunch at local institution,  Pilgrims Vegetarian Café , serving generously-sized dishes that are equal parts healthy and tasty. Then visit Murrays Beach , known as the jewel in the Booderee National Park for good reason. The pure white sand and clear water are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. 

Alternatively, join a dolphin or whale watching cruise with Jervis Bay Wild . The waters of the bay are abundant in sea life, so you're likely to spot pods of playful dolphins and humpback whales as they splash and breach. Whale migration season runs from mid-May to mid-November.

Afterwards, retreat to the romantic  Hyams Beach Seaside Cottages , or select a coastal escape to suit from  JB Beach Houses .

Day 11: Jervis Bay to Wollongong

Kiama Blowhole, South Coast, New South Wales © Murray Vanderveer, Destination NSW

Journey 50 minutes north through rolling green hills to the heritage town of Berry . Brunch on local, seasonal produce at the rustic Salmon and Co Eatery, and don’t leave town without collecting dessert from the famous  Berry Donut Van . Next, follow the Princes Highway 20 minutes north to laidback Kiama , where you can take in the powerful  Kiama Blowhole , a sea-cliff cavern that spouts seawater 20 metres (65 feet) into the air, or refresh with a swim in the nearby ocean pool .

Continuing north, drive a further 40 minutes to Wollongong, with an impressive array of stunning beaches, acclaimed restaurants, and chic city bars. From the laidback  Illawarra Brewery  and the intimate wine bar at  Mia Mia  to the oceanfront views and exquisite cocktails at  Pepe’s on the beach in North Wollongong, there’s no shortage of night-time entertainment. Stay close to the action at  Novotel Wollongong Northbeach (right above Pepe’s), with spacious, light-filled rooms just steps from the beach.

Day 12: Wollongong to Sydney

Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Finish your road trip on a high (literally) with  Skydive Sydney-Wollongong , where you'll enjoy a scenic plane ride before you make the leap from around 14,000 feet up, and serenely skydive over the coastal surrounds before landing on Wollongong’s beloved North Beach.

Afterwards, enjoy an impeccable breakfast and beach views at local favourite,  Diggies café. Then begin the last leg back to Sydney, taking the spectacular  Grand Pacific Drive route, which includes 140 kilometres (87 miles) of coastal scenery and snippets of the Royal National Park . The highlight is the incredible  Sea Cliff Bridge , 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Wollongong, which curves around towering cliffs while suspended 665 metres (2,181 feet) above the ocean.

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Scoot Over the Border on These 7 Northern NSW Day Trips

• Kiff & Culture
• January 28, 2022

From Kingscliff to Lennox Heads, you’ll find a plethora of incredible Northern NSW day trips just south of the border.

If you’re living in the Gold Coast (or even Brissie), a quick trip to the Northern Rivers is within easy reach. Hit the road early enough, and you’ll spend an entire day basking in its glory and still get home in time for tea.

Need some inspo on where to go? We’ve rounded down the top seven day trips to Northern NSW.

Drive time from the Gold Coast: 40 mins

Can’t be arsed with a long drive? Uncrowded Kingscliff boasts pristine beaches a stone’s throw from the state line. Aquatic activities like swimming, snorkelling, and surfing are the big drawcard here—these turquoise-tinged waters are divine.

Cycle along the paved path from Kingscliff to Pottsville to savour the coastline in one fell swoop. The scenic 17km route takes an hour one way at a cracking pace, but you’ll need more time to stop and spot dolphins (or maybe even whales) at the lookouts en route.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, swing by No. 35 Restaurant & Bar for next-level Italian nosh. The chefs-hatted Paper Daisy does the most sought-after cuisine around—book in advance. Brew aficionados can’t go past Earth Beer Co in Cudgen, while spirits swillers should hit Tumbulgum’s Husk Distillers for the transformative Ink Gin .

Murwillumbah

Drive time from the Gold Coast: 55 mins

Art lovers will adore Murwillumbah, a quaint country town showcasing Australia’s top talent. Surrounded by lush parklands, the Tweed Regional Gallery hosts an impressive collection of permanent exhibits and touring displays.

Attached is the Margaret Olley Art Centre , which pays homage to one of our most celebrated painters. Plan to spend at least an hour perusing the intriguing recreation of her home studio—there are 20,000 artefacts to sift through.

For a leisurely lazy lunch, you can’t go past the Tweed River House. This waterfront Provençal -style bistro snagged a chef’s hat for its delectable farm-to-table fare. Swing by Kat Harvey Cheese for delicious dairy treats, then check out the M-Arts Precinct to purchase contemporary works straight from the creators.

Time from the Gold Coast: 1 hour 15 mins

Hipsters, hippies, and celebs rub shoulders in NSW’s (or dare we say, Australia’s) coolest coastal town. Once a laid-back surfer hub, Byron has evolved to become a tourism behemoth in recent years. Chic boutiques, trendy cafes, and boisterous late-night bars define the town—it’s the place to see and be seen.

If you’d like the same epic coastlines with a more low-key vibe, slow-paced Brunswick Heads is even closer to Queensland.

Unsurprisingly, Byron is brimming with great places to eat. Try Folk Byron Bay for cafe-style delights, Beach Byron Bay for refined Mod-Oz fare, or Light Years for yummy Asian fusion and late-night cocktails.

Tiny little Bangalow is a big hit among inner-city foodies for its eclectic collection of farm-to-table restaurants and cafes. Most of the top culinary haunts line its charming main thoroughfare (Byron St)—just wander along and follow your nose.

Once you’re done stuffing your gob, there are stacks of boutiques and bric-a-brac stores to peruse. Pop by on Saturday morning to snag some fresh artisanal produce from the Farmer’s Market.

Wondering where to eat?

Frida’s Field puts on a fabulous farm-to-table feast for lunch on weekends. Nearby in Newrybar, Harvest won a chef’s hat for its fresh seasonal fare, while Zentveld ’s offers one of Australia’s only crop-to-cup coffee-tasting experiences.

Nightcap National Park

Drive time from the Gold Coast: 2 hours

Mist-shrouded rainforests are a mainstay of Northern NSW, and Nightcap National Park delivers a solid serving of sopping wet natural splendour. The main spot is Protestors Falls, a picturesque cascade accessed by a gorgeous 10-minute walking trail. Don’t bring your bathers because swimming is prohibited to protect endangered native frogs.

Nearby, Wollumbin National Park is home to the ominous Mount Warning. This ancient volcanic caldera is currently closed due to safety and cultural concerns but is tipped to reopen soon. In addition, the Border Ranges National Park offers a brilliant off-the-beaten-track scenic drive.

Drive time from the Gold Coast: 1 hour 40 mins

Any self-respecting Rastafarian will make the pilgrimage to Nimbin at least once in their life. This infamous hippy hamlet took to the counter-culture movement during the Aquarius Festival of 1973 and never looked back.

Smoke shops, tie-dye stalls, and the emblematic Hemp Embassy have helped keep the tradition alive. Nonetheless, there’s no denying the town has taken a seedier turn in recent years.

Lennox Head

Drive time from the Gold Coast: 1 hour 25 mins

Laidback Lennox Head brings you the best NSW breaks within day-trip distance to SE-QLD. If the ram-packed surf scene at Byron is getting you down, you’ll find thicker waves and thinner crowds just 15 minutes south.

Boulder Beach is a playground for the pros—watch the action unfold from the Pat Morton Lookout. If that looks too gnarly, hit the gentle Seven Mile Beach for a swim or Lake Ainsworth to paddle the day away.

Shelter is the town’s top gastronomic establishment (the sweeping sea views certainly don’t hurt).

Book Northern NSW Day Trips with Kiff & Culture

The Northern Rivers is home to some of the finest gastronomic establishments in the state. You can visit the cream de la crème on a Kiff & Culture tour.

Our Tweed Hinterlands and Byron Bay itineraries take you to the best culinary digs, with door-to-door transfers, a chatty guide, and new-found friends included in the deal.

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NSW Outback Tours

NSW Outback Tours from Sydney or Broken Hill are multi day and extended tours from in New South Wales Outback – and include tours to Broken Hill, Cobar, Lightning Ridge, Jenolan Caves, Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains, Hill End, Mudgee wine and gold country, Tibooburra, Cameron Corner, Snowy Mountains, Mootwingee, Mungo and many extra-ordinary National Parks from coast to country.

For non-NSW Outback tours see also Summary of All Outback Tours

NSW Outback Tours Summary … Ask if You don’t see it !

2 day sydney to blue mountains & hunter valley via mudgee & gold country.

Includes  Blue Mountains Three Sisters & Echo Point, Bathurst  (gold rush town),  Mudgee & Hunter Valley  vineyards

3 Day – Blue Mountains, Mudgee wines, Hunter Valley & Lightning Ridge Opals

Includes Blue Mountains Three Sisters & Echo Point, Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee & Hunter Valley vineyards, Warrumbungles Mountains, underground  Opal Mine tour, opal buyers traders markets

3 Day Jenolan Caves, Hill End, Blue Mountains, Mudgee & Hunter Valley

Walk in the world’s oldest caves –   Jenolan caves  are over 340 million years old! with some of the world’s most spectacular crystals in the World Heritage  Blue Mountains,  and experience the best of  Mudgee & Hunter Valley wines , and  Aboriginal sacred sites & rock art .

3 Day – Cobar & Canowindra via Blue Mountains

with Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (wool, copper & gold),  Ages of (ancient) Fishes Museum  in Canowindra, plus at  Parkes “The Dish” giant radio telescope  that relayed the 1st moon landing.

3 Days Sydney to Broken Hill

Incuding Broken Hill mine & town tour, via Blue Mountains, Bathurst (gold rush & Bushranger town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Wilcannia (old paddle steamer wool port on the Darling River)

4 Day Sydney to Broken Hill via Blue Mountains & Cobar

Including Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Mt Grenfell Aboriginal Rock Art, Wilcannia (old wool shipping port town on the Darling River, Broken Hill mine & Desert Sculptures & town highlights tour.

4 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour via Lightning Ridge, Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley

Experience the Warrumbungles Mountains, Blue Mountains, Three Sisters & Echo Point, Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee & Hunter Valley vineyards, Warrumbungles Mountains, underground  Opal Mine tour, opal buyers traders markets  and the culture, history and wines or overnight in  Port Stephens on Nelson Bay  near with optional swim / surf or whale or dolphin watch cruise).

4 Day NSW / QLD Cameron Corner Country 4WD Tour

Broken Hill to Broken Hill tour via Tibooburra, Milparinka, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka. From Sydney options Details

4 Day Darling River Run via Bourke & Broken Hill

4 day  Darling River Run via Bourke & Broken Hill – from Sydney or Adelaide (5 days) or Broken Hill – via White Cliffs opals, Tilpa, Louth, Gundabooka National Park, Bourke river cruise, Nyngan, Explore Outback NSW Rivers and Wetlands Details

Darling River Run, Macquarie Marshes, Brewarrina, Bourke, Tilpa, Louth, White Cliffs & Broken HillTour  –  Connect with the wonder of 35,000 birds breeding in these revitalized Macquarie Marshes. Tour from Sydney (or reverse from Broken Hill or Adelaide), via  Macquarie Marshes NP ,  Back O’ Bourke, Gundabooka National Park,  and the banks of Australia’s longest, the Darling River,  plus Kinchega National Park and  Menindee Lakes. Sydney to Broken Hill. Return by train or plane, or continue to Adelaide for Lake Eyre. 

From Sydney to Broken Hill or Adelaide option +  Lake Eyre tour options

From Sydney – Macquarie Marshes, Menindee Lakes & Broken Hill  –  3 days to Explore Outback NSW Rivers and Wetland highlights now teaming with life after rejuvenation floods. Includes 1 night to explore Macquarie Marshes NP, before Kinchega National Park and Menindee Lakes and 1 or 2 nights in Broken Hill. Return by train or plane, or Cameron’s Corner optionally continue with us to Lake Eyre. Connection options to Sydney, Broken Hill or Melbourne. 3 nights accommodated 4WD tour – $1,850

Corner Country Tours from Sydney & Broken Hill

4 & 5 day NSW / QLD / SA  Corner Country 4WD Tour  via Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Milparinka, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka

NSW / QLD Cameron Corner Country 4WD Tour via Broken Hill , Tibooburra, Milparinka, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka – Explore in the footsteps of Burke & Wills (visit the Dig Tree) this remote and fascinating area around the junction of the NSW, QLD & SA borders. 4 days from & return to Broken Hill (or Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne by rail, fly or coach) April 2-5 (meets Indian Pacific train from Sydney), – Ask about other dates or …. Join this tour from SYDNEY – March 23 or 26

From Sydney – Macquarie Marshes, Menindee Lakes & Broken Hill  –  3 days  to Explore Outback NSW Rivers and Wetlands after  rejuvenation floods . Explore  Macquarie Marshes NP,  before  Kinchega National Park  and  Menindee Lakes  and 1 or 2 nights in Broken Hill. Return by train or plane, or  Cameron Corner Country tour optionally continue with us to Lake Eyre. Connection options to Sydney, Broken Hill or Melbourne.

Corner Country from Broken Hill to Alice Springs  via Tibooburra, Milparinka, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka, Birdsville, Boulia – Explore in the footsteps of Burke & Wills (visit the Dig Tree) this remote and fascinating area around the junction of the NSW, QLD & SA borders. 5 days from Broken Hill (or Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne by rail, fly or coach options available) – ask for details Join this tour from SYDNEY – March 23 or 2 6

Lightning Ridge Opals Tours

Sydney to Outback New South Wales ( NSW ) safari tour via  Blue Mountains, Mudgee wines, Wollomi National Park, Warrumbungle Mountains, Lightning Ridge opals, hot springs, Mt Kaputar, Hunter Valley  (+ Canberra and South Coast options – ask)

• Wildlife in the wild. See koalas, emus, kangaroos, reptiles, wallabies, stunning native birds and much more
• Buy cheap opal at traders prices from the source at  Lightning Ridge
• Meet real Australian’s and local Aboriginal people in communities
• Other tour options include Broken Hill, Lake Mungo NP, Gundabooka National Park, Bourke

Black Opals from  Lightning Ridge New South Wales,   Outback NSW Tour

2 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tours

– 2, 3 or 4 day or more options

2 Day Lightning Ridge Outback NSW

Elements of the   3 day Blue Mountains, Lightning Ridge, Hunter Valley tour  are available in this 2 day option, but driving distance limits days activities. This option is offered primarily to visit  Lightning Ridge,  but your preferences can be catered for – please call or email to discuss your objectives. 2 Day Blue Mountains, Country NSW and Hunter Valley Tour

Day 1  – Pick up from your Sydney accommodation at 730 am and enjoy the fresh early light and air of the spectacular Blue Mountains. Visit Katoomba, Leura, Echo Point, Three Sisters, Jamieson Valley (Grand Canyon) and Cliff Drive over Megalong Valley before a morning tea at Govett’s Leap near Blackheath, overlooking the Grosse Valley and spectacular Blue Gum Forest in the Blue Mountains. Option for descent into the Jamieson Valley via scenic railway and return by cable car – a great ride !

Beyond Govetts Leap we descent the 1500 metres of the Great Dividing Range to Lithgow and from Pearson’s Lookout view the Blue Mountains region and Wollomi National Park in this World Heritage area. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a Winery in Mudgee and wine tasting. Often we see wild kangaroos as we travel these areas. Travel to the old gold mining town, and historic Gulgong, the town that was on the $10 note. Overnight locally in a motel (twin /triple share or B&B – upgrades available) Choose your accommodation options when booking. Dine in town at the numerous options available (dinner own expense).

Day 2  – Depart for the awesome drive through the Goulburn River National Park and spectacular mountain passes to the village of Sandy Hollow (great arts and coffee stop) in the Hunter Valley. Travel through small rural town on the Golden Highway, via some of Australia’s most prestigious thoroughbred horse studs, and cattle country. We see the vast coal mines of the Hunter Valley before our stop at some local wineries for wine tasting a full range of wines from various vineyards, and a delicious lunch. If willing, we can also visit the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, a Cheese factory for cheese tasting and a fudge factory … mmm. Wildlife are waiting for us at a nearby wildlife park (closed Wednesdays). Here we can take a close up look and see most of the famous Ozzie wild ones including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, wombats, echidnas and a great array of native birds. Sydney is a couple of hours away and we cross the mighty Hawkesbury River before travel through Sydney’s leafy northern suburbs to arrive your hotel approx 6pm.

2 Day Sydney to Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley via Mudgee & Gold Country …includes 1 night motel accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 2 lunches, 1 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport. $895 per person includes GST (min. 2)

Book Now  – Call from mobile or at local rate 1300 763 188 or 02 8213 3225 or from overseas + 61 2 8213 3225

Other 2 day tours include Jenolan Caves, Hill End & Sofala, Canberra, Snowy Mountains, South Coast, North Coast, Port Stephens & Barrington Tops

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tours

Lightning ridge via blue mountains, mudgee & hunter valley.

– itinerary

Day 1 – Depart your Sydney hotel or accommodation at 730 am and enjoy the fresh early light and air of the spectacular Blue Mountains. Visit Katoomba, Leura, Echo Point, Three Sisters, Jamieson Valley (Grand Canyon) and Cliff Drive over Megalong Valley before a morning tea at Govett’s Leap near Blackheath, overlooking the Grosse Valley and spectacular Blue Gum Forest in the Blue Mountains.

Descent the 1500 metres of the Great Dividing Range and from Pearson’s Lookout view the Blue Mountains region and Wollomi National Park in this World Heritage area. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a Winery in Mudgee and enjoy wine  tasting. Travel on through old gold mining towns, and historic Gulgong – the town on the $10 note. See wild kangaroos and emus as we travel through Warrumbungle National Park. Dine at own expense in town (numerous options) and consider a visit to the Sky Watch Observatory to view the night sky through their giant telescope. This area experiences some of the clearest skies in the world, hence the nearby Siding Springs Observatory. Enjoy motel style accommodation this evening.

Day 2:  After a healthy breakfast travel through the Pilliga Scrub region on Backcountry dirt roads. Arrive Lightning Ridge, home to Australia’s beautiful black opal. Visit an underground mine and see how the mining community lives. Buy your opals direct from the Opal Cutters and Wholesalers at huge discounts to City prices. Enjoy a swim in the healing waters of the hot Artesian spring baths. Overnight Lightning Ridge motel.

Day 3:  Depart Lightning Ridge for the return journey to Sydney via huge sheep stations and some of the largest fields of wheat and cotton in the world. Witness the majestic 1520 m high Mt Kaputar dominating this ancient volcanic landscape. Visit Mt Kaputar foothills and see an ancient and massive organ pipe lava flow (time permitting). Lunch in a “Country Pub”. Travel on through the Liverpool Ranges, and Scone, the heart of horse breeding country in Australia. Time permitting enjoy some wine tasting in the Hunter Valley before arrival in Sydney approximately 7:00 pm

Inclusions  –

• Wine tastings
• Wild wildlife!!
• Discount opal buying
• Aboriginal art and real Aussie county folk
• National Parks entry fees.
• Visit to Aboriginal Art communities for “direct from artist” purchases.
• Proportion of tour price supports Outback Kids Fund &  Nature Care projects.

See dates below …

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW

Jenolan caves, hill end via blue mountains, mudgee & hunter valley.

Walk in the world’s oldest caves – over 340 million years old! with some of the world’s most spectacular crystals in the World Heritage Blue Mountains, and experience the best of Mudgee & Hunter Valley wines, and Aborigianla sacred sites & rock art . – itinerary

Day 1  – Depart your Sydney hotel or accommodation at 730 am and enjoy the fresh early light and air of the spectacular Blue Mountains. Visit Katoomba, Leura, Echo Point, Three Sisters, Jamieson Valley (Grand Canyon) and Cliff Drive over Megalong Valley. Enjoy the spectacular view from Govett’s Leap near Blackheath, overlooking the Grosse Valley and spectacular Blue Gum Forest. Descent the 1500 metres of the Great Dividing Range to the western slopes, then down the scenic Jenolan Caves road for a cave tour or nature walk.

Jenolan Caves are the world’s oldest dated caves-over 340 million years old! They contain some of the world’s most spectacular calcite crystal formations, which since 1838 have entranced visitors.

Regarded as Australia’s most outstanding cave system – with 11 spectacular show caves, multi-lingual self-guided tour, pure underground rivers and amazing formations – Jenolan Caves is among the finest and oldest cave systems in the world.

Jenolan Caves is in a huge nature reserve which forms part of the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. You can stroll along a choice of scenic bush tracks (from easy to strenuous), picnic at the Blue Lake, and in the quiet of the early morning or at dusk, see native animals and birds. On almost any day you can spot a platypus, and if overnighting, you are sure to see kangaroos. After a caves tour and nature walk, we enjoy a delicious meal at the local restaurant, before overnight at Caves House.

Day 2: After a healthy breakfast travel through the mountain region to the timber town of Oberon, then the scenic drive into Bathurst. Bathurst was home to New South wales first big gold rush in the 1850s and became home to the Cobb & Co (stage) coach company, who ran the largest transport network in the world with 6,000 horses running daily. Enjoy a look at local history, and this truly pioneering country town before we “head for the hills” and back country via the quaint old gold mining town of Sofala. Rom here we wind our way along the bridle track following the Turon River, to Hill End.

Some history – In 1851, gold was discovered at Hill End, and by 1872, at the height of the great gold rush, the town was the largest inland settlement in NSW. With its museum displays and many preserved buildings, Hill End offers a fascinating insight into the 19th-century gold rush.

This well-preserved, former Bathurst gold-mining town is set in an isolated valley surrounded by rugged mountains and gorges. The rugged scenery has inspired many renowned Australian painters, including Donald Friend and Russell Drysdale, who painted some of the finest Australian landscapes of the 20th century.

In its heyday in the 1870s, Hill End had a population of 10,000 and boasted a kilometre of colourful shopfronts, including 28 pubs, an opium den and an oyster bar. Today you can take a self-guided tour of the gold-rush streetscape, go underground at the Bald Hill Mine or join a ‘fossicking’ tour and search for gold among mounds of old mine tailings.

Time here to enjoy the local history, before travelling back country trails, to arrive at Mudgee, and prosperous volcanic soil wine growing area. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a Winery in Mudgee and enjoy wine tasting at a premium local winery.

Travel on through the old gold mining & historic town of Gulgong – the town (that was) on the $10 note We then head for Ulan, and the Goulburn River & Wollomi National Park, where we take a walk in this beautiful nature. We likely see wild kangaroos as we travel through dense forests and spectacular rock and mountain scenery to descend into the Hunter Valley. Overnight Sandy Hollow.

Day 3: Depart through picturesque rural properties, crossing the Goulburn & Hunter Valley (The Twin Rivers) to follow the Golden Highway in the foothills of Wollomi National Park. We visit the sacred Aboriginal “Biamme Cave” with a massive Aboriginal cave painting depicting the supreme Aboriginal creator spirit Biamme, with outstretched arms caring over his people. (Known as the “rope man” in the Pacific Islands. Learn of local Aboriginal history, and landmarks before we enjoy lunch at a scenic vineyard picnic area. We travel through Broke an the historic village of Wollombi (more wine tasting options) before arriving in the heart of the Lower Hunter Valley, Pokolbin. Lots of treats here including many boutique wineries, the Hunter Valley Gardens, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, Cheese tasting and more. A local Wildlife park visit options is also available to ensure close encounters of the furry kind with koalas, kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian Devils, crocodiles and more. After a full day we travel back to Sydney crossing the mighty & scenic Hawkesbury River, travelling back into the city via the leafy north shore suburbs, arriving approximately 6pm.

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tours – Costs

3 day tours include  2 nights accommodation (based on twin share), morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts.  All fees, professional guide, luxury 4WD transport (Toyota Landcruiser or similar). Two dinners at own expense in local restaurant of your choice. Cost including GST, for twin share AUD $1495 per person. Single supplement add $135. Group of 3 sharing, same as twin share rate.

Departs on demand. Rate based on minimum of 2 people.

4  Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour

Add an extra night to your 3 day tour with a night in the  Hunter Valley  to relax & enjoy the history and wines or overnight in Port Stephens on Nelson Bay near Newcastle (with optional swim / surf or whale or dolphin watch cruise) Cost for 4 day tour $1895 twin share. Single supplement add $195. Group of 3 sharing, same as twin share rate.

2  Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour

Elements of  the 3 day tour are available but driving distance limits days activities. This option is offered primarily to visit Lightning Ridge, but your preferences can be catered for – please call or email to discuss your objectives.

Ask Now: 1300 763 188

NSW Outback Tours suggestions also include these tours

2 Day Sydney to Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley via Mudgee & Gold Country  …includes 1 night motel accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 2 lunches, 1 breakfast. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport. $895 per person includes GST (rates based on minimum of 2 persons)3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour with Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley & Lightning Ridge,includes … 2 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts.  All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$ 1495 pp includes GST

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour with Cobar & Canowindra via Blue Mountains  (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Ages of Fishes Museum in Canowindra http://www.ageoffishes.org.au  , Parkes “The Dish” radio telescope, Sydney. Tour includes 2 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$ 1495 per person includes GST

3 Days, 2 nights ending in Broken Hill  (including mine & town highlights tour) via Blue Mountains (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Wilcannia (old wool shipping port town on the Darling River) Tour includes 3 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport. Tour ends in Broken Hill return to Sydney or Melbourne by air or rail, or return tour with us option. AUD$ 1495 includes GST. Minimum 2 persons

4 Day Sydney to Broken Hill via Blue Mountains & Cobar –  (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Mt Grenfell Aboriginal Rock Art, Wilcannia (old wool shipping port town on the Darling River, 4 day Tour including Broken Hill mine & Desert Sculptures & town highlights tour, plus 3 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 4 lunches, 3 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$ 1195 per person includes GST. Tour ends in Broken Hill return to Sydney or Melbourne by air or rail, or return tour with us option. $1895 per person minimum 2 persons  

4 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour via Lightning Ridge, Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley  –  includes 3 nights accommodation plus as above with a night in the Hunter Valley to relax & enjoy the history and wines or overnight in Port Stephens on Nelson Bay near Newcastle (with optional swim / surf or whale or dolphin watch cruise). Cost for 4 day tour $1895 per person twin share. Single supplement add $195. Group of 3 sharing, same as twin share rate.

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour  includes … 2 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts.  All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$ 1495 includes GST

4 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour  includes as above plus total 3 nights accommodation with a night in the Hunter Valley to relax & enjoy the history and wines or overnight in Port Stephens on Nelson Bay near Newcastle (with optional swim / surf or whale or dolphin watch cruise). Cost for 4 day tour $1895 twin share. Single supplement add $195. Group of 3 sharing, same as twin share rate.

MORE NSW OUTACK TOURS MAPS

2  Day Sydney to Lightning Ridge Outback NSW Tour

  Elements of the 3 day Lightning Ridge tour are available in 2 days, but driving distance limits days activities. This option is offered primarily to visit Lightning Ridge, but your preferences can be catered for – please call or email to discuss your objectives.

2 Day Sydney to Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley via Mudgee & Gold Country  …includes 1 night motel accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 2 lunches, 1 breakfast. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport. $895 includes GST (rates based on a minimum of 2 persons)3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour with Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley & Lightning Ridge,includes … 2 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts.  All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$895 pp includes GST

3 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour with Cobar & Canowindra via Blue Mountains  (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Ages of Fishes Museum in Canowindra  http://www.ageoffishes.org.au  , Parkes “The Dish” radio telescope, Sydney. Tour includes 2 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide,  4WD transport – AUD$ 1780 per person includes GST

3 Days, 2 nights ending in Broken Hill  (including mine & town highlights tour) via Blue Mountains (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Wilcannia (old wool shipping port town on the Darling River) Tour includes 3 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport. Tour ends in Broken Hill return to Sydney or Melbourne by air or rail, or return tour with us option. AUD$ 1780 includes GST. Minimum 2 persons

4 Day Sydney to Broken Hill via Blue Mountains & Cobar –  (Three Sisters & Echo Point walk), Bathurst (gold rush town), Mudgee wines, Cobar (copper & gold), Mt Grenfell Aboriginal Rock Art, Wilcannia (old wool shipping port town on the Darling River, 4 day Tour including Broken Hill mine & Desert Sculptures & town highlights tour, plus 3 nights accommodation, morning and afternoon teas, 4 lunches, 3 breakfasts. All fees, professional guide, 4WD transport – AUD$ 1195 per person includes GST. Tour ends in Broken Hill return to Sydney or Melbourne by air or rail, or return tour with us option. $2495 per person minimum 2 persons

4 Day Sydney to Outback NSW Tour via Lightning Ridge, Blue Mountains & Hunter Valley  –  includes 3 nights accommodation plus as above with a night in the Hunter Valley to relax & enjoy the history and wines or overnight in Port Stephens on Nelson Bay near Newcastle (with optional swim / surf or whale or dolphin watch cruise). Cost for 4 day tour $2450 per person twin share. Single supplement add $195. Group of 3 sharing, same as twin share rate.

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Sydney via Cobar & Canowindra Tour

Sydney via Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley & Lightning Ridge Tour

Sydney to Broken Hill Tour 

NSW / QLD   Camerons Corner Country Tour

Lightning Ridge Attractions …

The Lightning Ridge attractions are as varied and as unique as the colourful stone the miner’s search for. You are able to soak in the FREE hot and therapeutic gift of artesian water, experience mining or visit one of the unique collections and homes of the characters of the Ridge. Take a step back in time, or kill time fossicking – whatever you like, there is something to tickle everyone’s fancy.

Artesian Bore Baths A trip to the Ridge would not be complete without a visit to the FREE Artesian Bore Baths. At the end of a hard day fossicking and exploring, there is nothing quite as therapeutic as a long soak in the naturally heated thermal baths. Allow the water to soothe your aches while you gaze at the starry night sky and enjoy the serenity. Bliss! Opening Hours: 24 hours/all year round Cost: FREE Features: One large bathing pool and one small pool, Toilets/Showers Location: Pandora Street, Lightning Ridge

Astronomer’s Monument Take the time to browse this incredible feat of engineering and truly experience the eccentric mind of one of the Ridge’s late characters. The walls of this ‘concrete folly’ have been carefully and lovingly inscribed and you can journey through the mind of its creator and wonder… Not open to the public – but stop and have a look and read about the builder on the front gate. (On the red car door tour).

Bevan’s Black Opal and Cactus Nursery Said to be the largest display of old and rare cactus in southern hemisphere, this garden is a labor of love and well worth a look! Meet the only black opal mining cactus farmers in the world! Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm 7 days Cost: $5 adults $2 children Features: Hundreds of Cactus… Lightning Ridge Souvenirs and of course Black Opals

Black Queen The Black Queen: Outstanding Outback Theatre… with a twist Completely surprising. The Award Winning Black Queen is an inspiring collection of intertwining stories weaved together and told in a wonderfully mysterious way. Expect the unexpected. Open daily March – Nov. Performances 9am, 1pm & 5pm or by appointment. www.blackqueen.com.au

Bird of Paradise Art Gallery Local artist, Paul Bird, established the Bird of Paradise Art Gallery in 1977. Paul enjoys the challenge of painting the unique Lightning Ridge landscape, reflecting the beautiful colours of opal Built by Paul, his large gallery/studio is situated on the deep 3-mile opal field, where visitors cannot only view paintings, but also fossick for opal on the nearby diggings. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm daily Features: Artworks, mining information, fossicking Location: Deep 3-mile opal field 3kms from P.O.

Bottle House A unique structure and an intriguing example of innovative architecture. Originally a miner’s camp, the Bottle House now houses an astonishing collection of artefacts and other items of interest. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm 7 days Cost: $5 adults, Children free Features: Friendly Service and souvenirs Location: 60 Opal Street, Lightning Ridge

Down to Earth Opals Down to Earth Opals houses one of the best collections of solid Lightning Ridge opal anywhere in Australia. Their contemporary showroom is brimming with exquisite Opal jewellery hand made by a Master Goldsmith, original Aboriginal Art and stunning fashion jewellery. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm seven days Features: Spectacular Opal Display, Hand Made Jewellery, Aboriginal Art and Fashion Jewellery

Everything Opal Located conveniently in the main street, this shop has something for everyone. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm (Mon- Fri) 9am – 1pm (Saturday) Features: Fine Jewellery, Opal Inlay, Unset Opals, sterling silver jewellery, body jewellery, souvenirs, diamond and gemstone jewellery, gold and silver chains and gifts Location: 39 Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

Fossicking Heap Whether you are old hat or it is your first time – there is nothing more exciting than that first bit of colour appearing beneath your fingertips as you scratch through the seemingly endless piles of white opal dirt. Good Luck! Opening Hours: Daylight to Dusk Features: The lure of the big find! Location: Lightning Ridge Visitor Information Centre

Garrawal Aboriginal Artifacts Shop A fine collection of aboriginal art showcasing many works by local artists living in the region. Various other aboriginal artifacts also for sale. Opening Hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm (Mon – Fri) Features: Aboriginal art, paintings, pottery, furniture and carved emu eggs. Location: 29 Nobby Rd, Lightning Ridge

Graeme Anderson’s Gemopal Pottery Opening Hours: By appointment only Features: This mad hatter likes experimenting with local clays and materials and the results are truly fantastic. Location: Cnr of Potch and Pandora Sts (on the Bore Baths road next to the Goondee.)

GGS Opals Gerd is the local Master Goldsmith and is an outstanding craftsman. Call in and see his personal collection of work – or have him set your newly fossicked (or purchased) opal. Opening Hours: 9am – 12.30 and 2pm – 5pm (Mon- Fri) 9am – 12.30pm (Saturday) Features: Hand made and designed jewellery customised to your taste Location: Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

You can experience Aboriginal culture first hand at the Goondee Aboriginal Keeping Place. The centre showcases a collection of ancient Aboriginal tools and weapons used by tribes along the local inland rivers.

John Murray’s Art Gallery You will be intrigued at the talent of local John Murray. His unique sense of humour and outback palette combines beautifully into some stunning and colourful masterpieces. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm (Mon-Fri) 9am – 1pm (Sat-Sun) Features: Original Artwork by John Murray Location: Opal Street, Lightning Ridge

Kangaroo Hill A life of collection has led to this quirky Lightning ridge icon. A fabulous display of rocks, minerals, shells, bottles and antiques will have you captivated for hours as will the FREE fossicking heap outside. Opening Hours: 9.30am – 5pm except Sundays (Closed Christmas Day) Cost: $4 adults 50c children (group prices available) Features: 1 hour FREE fossicking, Rocks and Mineral Display, Shells, Bottles and Antique Display, Souvenirs for Sale Location: top of Opal Street, Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge Arts and Crafts Association Displaying and selling a wide range of locally-made arts and crafts. Opening Hours: (volunteer hours) 10am – 2pm 7 days Features: Local Art, Craft and Pottery – exhibition of local art Location: Pandora Street, Lightning Ridge (on the road to the Bore Baths)

Lightning Ridge Historical Society and Heritage Cottage 1932 Miners’ cottage and 1915 Cottage Hospital Gallery. Historical displays books and crafts. Opening Hours: open 3 days a week, or by appointment, Telone for details. Cost: Donations accepted Features: Local history, books and souvenirs Location: 9 Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge Opal and Fossil Centre Meet face to face with a life like dinosaur or examine the unique opalised fossils on display at this significant centre. Show your support for Lightning Ridge’ s journey to develop a world class Opal and Fossil Centre on the Three Mile Opal Field. Opening Hours: 10am – 4pm (Mon-Fri) or by appointment Features: Lifelike dinosaur display and opalised fossil collection Location: Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

Lost Sea Opals Feast your eyes on Lightning Ridge’s largest on display collection of opalised fossils – bones and plant material from an ancient inland sea. Also featuring stunning solid and inlay opal jewellery from the Lightning Ridge and the Boulder Opal Fields, this is a light and beautiful store. Opening Hours: 8.30am – 6pm 7 days Features: Display of opalised fossils, Stunning opal inlay jewellery, Silver jewellery, Boulder Opal jewellery, Solid Opal jewellery, Books Location: Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

Opal Cave Lightning Ridge’s largest showroom. In the middle of town, opposite the Post Office. Created to look like an underground mine. We have the largest range of opal, jewellery, souvenirs, gifts, art and pottery. Opening Hours: 8.30am – 5pm 7 days Features: Rub and polish your own opal here! Also…Free Tour Guide for Coaches, Free Opal explanation. Opal Waterfall, Mineshaft with Underground miner. Booking Agent for Countrylink and Coach Companies Location: Centre of town, Opposite Post Office, Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge

The 5 Star Olympic Pool and Water Theme Park operates during the summer months. The Olympic Pool is handy for keeping fit and the Water Theme park for keeping the kids entertained.

Walk in Mine If you want an authentic underground experience, then the Walk in Mine is just the place. Here you can feel first hand what it’s like to go below the earth and dig for opal. Originally a working mine, the Walk in Mine is a myriad of shafts and ballrooms that have been restored so visitors can glimpse the life of an opal miner. Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm seven days Cost: starts from $5 adults $3 children (group packages available) Features: Underground mining, Opal and Mining Information Talk video and opal and jewellery showroom Location: Bald Hill Road, Lightning Ridge

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