New South Wales
From world-famous icons to hidden country gems, New South Wales offers a dazzling mix of urban buzz, coastal calm and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Things to do in New South Wales
New South Wales has a wealth of activities to suit every taste. From scenic drives to thrilling hikes to sampling some of Australia’s finest wines, New South Wales is a destination not to be missed. Here are some highlights:
Explore the Hunter Valley
Take your taste buds on an awe-inspiring journey through the renowned wine regions of the Hunter Valley. Home to 150 wineries, this stunning region is the ideal destination for wine lovers and foodies.
Visit Lord Howe Island
Be captivated by this unique island paradise, home to subtropical forests, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. World Heritage Listed, Lord Howe Island covers an area of 14.55 square kilometres and boasts stunning coral reefs, lagoons, volcanic peaks, world-class hikes and much more.
Experience the Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant diversity of the Australian coastline on a tailor-made adventure along the Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive.
Events in New South Wales
New South Wales offers an exciting calendar of annual events that reflect the state’s vibrant culture, from world-renowned arts and music to spectacular sporting occasions and coastal celebrations.
Byron Bay Bluesfest
One of Australia’s most celebrated music festivals, attracting world-class blues and roots performers from across the globe. Held over four to five days near Byron Bay, it offers an unforgettable mix of live music, festival atmosphere, and coastal charm.
Vivid Sydney (May–June):
A dazzling festival of light, music, and ideas that transforms the city into an illuminated wonderland, with light installations, 3D projections, live performances, and creative talks set against Sydney’s iconic harbour backdrop.
The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (December):
A legendary Boxing Day tradition, this challenging ocean race begins in Sydney Harbour and sees world-class yachts set sail towards Tasmania, cheered on by crowds along the shoreline.
National Parks in New South Wales
New South Wales’ national parks span a world of natural beauty, from golden beaches and ancient rainforests to soaring mountain ranges and red desert plains. Here are some of the state’s natural highlights:
Blue Mountains: Just a 90-minute drive west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonderland of dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
Kosciuszko National Park: Home to Australia’s highest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko, this park covers more than 2.6 million acres and offers year-round adventure, featuring hiking trails, mountain biking routes and stunning alpine wildflowers.
Royal National Park: Just 21 miles south of Sydney, Royal National Park is the world’s second-oldest national park and a favourite for day trips.
With rugged cliffs, rainforest trails and hidden beaches, it’s a paradise for walkers, picnickers and birdwatchers.
Top tip: Don’t miss the Figure Eight Pools, a naturally formed rock pool phenomenon that’s become a social media star.
Where to stay in New South Wales
New South Wales’ towns and cities are as varied as its landscapes. Explore bustling urban centres, character-filled country towns, and relaxed coastal communities – each with its own personality, history, and charm.
Sydney: With its glittering harbour, world-famous beaches and vibrant neighbourhoods, Sydney is a must-visit destination.
Byron Bay: This laid-back destination is home to sparkling beaches, a World Heritage rainforest, lush hinterland, organic cafes, a tea tree lake, boutique stores, and so much more.
Coffs Harbour: This friendly surf town on the North Coast of New South Wales is home to sublime beaches, banana plantations, fun family attractions, national parks, and more.
Jervis Bay: Rich in Aboriginal culture dating back to over 7000 years, Jervis Bay is a nature lover's paradise.
With astounding white-sand beaches, unforgettable bush walks, year-round resident bottlenose dolphins, secret coves, quirky towns and more. There is so much to discover in this part of Australia.
Transport in New South Wales
Getting around New South Wales is straightforward and convenient, whether you’re arriving from overseas or within Australia.
Getting to New South Wales: Sydney Airport welcomes direct flights from major cities across the globe. From other parts of Australia, New South Wales is well-connected by domestic flights, long-distance coaches, and scenic train journeys.
Getting around New South Wales: For exploring beyond the city, especially regional areas and national parks, travelling by car gives you the most flexibility. Sydney also boasts an extensive public transport network of trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.
