1/30

Boomerang Beach

Known for its top notch surfing, Boomerang beach is just three and a half hours north of Sydney, and one and a half south of Port Macquarie. The Booti Booti National Park headland and outcrop means the bay is protected, so swimming is gentle, and allows for snorkeling, rock fishing and jumping from rock pool to rock pool. Catch a glimpse of breaching dolphins in the warmer months. Hardly surprising then that it is near the top our of list of the best long weekend escapes in nsw.

Where to stay: The Deck is a private homestead surrounded by rainforest that can sleep up to 14. Perhaps for a multi-generational getaway.

2/30

Byron Bay

There’s a reason this place is on almost every “Must Go” list for New South Wales; it never gets old, and repeatedly delivers the perfect mix of relaxation, clean living and village life, all by the ocean. With farmer’s markets each Sunday in summer, yoga, triathlons for those energetic enough, and comedy nights, it has something for everyone. And don’t let winter in Byron slip you by; enjoy whale watching, dolphin spotting, festivals, restaurants, and exploring the hinterland. Did someone say romantic weekend getaway?

Where to stay: Byron's Beach Suites are right on the waterfront and feature 14 guestrooms.

3/30

Forster

In the Great Lakes region, around four hours north of Sydney, the seaside town of Forster offers scuba diving, whale and dolphin cruises, ocean baths to paddle in, sailboarding, fishing and basically any water activity you can think of. Deep sea fishing is unique to the area, as is oyster farming. Fly in to nearby Taree Airport from Sydney, or drive up Newcastle if you’re not in the mood for a road trip. It's the perfect antidote to city life for nature lovers keen on a beach holiday.

Where to stay: The Hotel Forster has a dreamy pool, BBQ facilities and free private parking.

4/30

Garie Beach

One of 11 beaches within the Royal National Park just south of Sydney, Garie Beach is a great place to enjoy bush walks, camping, fishing and surfing. Explore the tropical microclimate gullies around the park that grow unique cabbage tree palms and ferns. For an incredible view, head to Governor Game lookout. This is the perfect weekend getaway if you don't have the time to explore the entire south coast.

Where to stay: Tumbling Waters Retreat in Stanwell Tops offers views galore and a sexy day spa.

5/30

Kangaroo Valley

Greenery in abundance springs to mind when you think of Kangaroo Valley. Two hours from Sydney and Canberra, nestled between the Jervis Bay area and the Southern Highlands, sits one of the most leafy, tranquil spots in the state. Visitors can kayak, camp, head to a spa, horse ride, and enjoy local wines and markets. Fitzroy and Gerringong Falls are also less than 20km away and picture-perfect for a riverside picnic.

Where to stay: Holiday homes are popular in Kangaroo Valley. Make one yours by checking out the selection of private villas and retreats on Airbnb.

6/30

Oberon

Head to the central west tablelands town of Oberon to experience some of the state’s best horse riding, valley views and bike trails. If you’re there in January, indulge in Mayfield Garden glamping. The gardens are the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned cool climate garden. During certain times of the year (check the website for event details), an additional 120 acres of private gardens are opened, and the Mayfield Lake is dotted with row boats. Oberon is 2.5 hours from Sydney, or 30 minutes from Bathurst. Picture: Destination NSW

Where to stay: When the weather is warm, camp under the stars or score a cabin at Jenolan Holiday Park.

7/30

Blackheath

Sitting at the summit of the Blue Mountains, Blackheath is home to some of the state’s prettiest stone buildings and weatherboard cottages. The town is also the starting point for some of the most magnificent mountain trails. Enjoy the Growers Market which is on every second Sunday of the month, and pick up some of the town’s famous rhododendrons. Blackheath is just under two hours from Sydney and Orange and has handy access to the Blue Mountains National Park.

Where to stay: The Kyah Hotel is an old motel that has had the bougiest of glow ups. Romantic getaway meets weekend escape in regional New South Wales.

8/30

Hunter Valley

The Hunter VB is known for its leafy vineyards, lip-smacking drops (it's Australia's oldest wine region) and concerts aplenty, but there’s more on offer. Head to Wollombi for, yes, wine, but also great bushwalking, camping and mountain bike trails in the UNESCO World-Heritage listed Yengo National Park. Or head further north to Scone, the horse capital of Australia, to pitch a tent at the Washpools campground in Towarri National Park, or cast your line in Lake Glenbawn or the Pages River. Wollombi is two hours north of Sydney, and Scone is just over three. Which equates to one of the best weekend getaways in the entire state.

Where to stay: In summer, camp out at Washpools campground.

9/30

Hawks Nest

Just under three hours north of Sydney and two hours from Port Macquarie, Hawks Nest sits at the mouth of the Myall Lakes National Park, where a network of lakes, rivers and channels meet. Fishing, kayaking, swimming, and bush walks within the National Park make it an outdoor paradise. Take the ferry across to Nelson Bay for some dolphin and whale watching.

WHere to stay: At the water's edge, Tea Gardens Hotel is an affordable stay that also welcomes furry friends.

10/30

Orange

Orange is about 3.5 hours from Sydney through the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. The leafy town is renowned for great quality food and wine, and it’s easy to see why with the likes of hatted restaurant, Lolli Redini. Take a walk around the Orange Botanic Gardens and the regional gallery, or head just out of town for bushwalks in the Mount Canobolas conservation reserve. Picture: Destination NSW

Where to stay: The Remington Orange has wonderfully friendly service, generously sized rooms and a delicious breakfast.

11/30

Hyams Beach

Hyams Beach, best known for its white sand and gentle swell, is one of the most popular beaches in the Jervis Bay area. Summer periods can be busy, with families descending on the idyllic still waters to swim, snorkel, stand-up-paddleboard, fish, or birdwatch on the beach trails. The white sand of Hyams is included in the global White Sands Walk. Hyams is just under three hours south of Sydney, and two and half east of Canberra.

Where to stay: Make the Marazul Paradise Beach House your home away from home. It sleeps 14 and includes parking.

12/30

Jindabyne

Jindabyne, five hours south of Sydney, or two from Canberra, sits at the foot of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, and has loads to offer; from fishing and water sports in Lake Jindabyne, to horse riding, helicopter joy rides, and mountain biking. The town itself has great restaurants, bars, a distillery, plenty of nightlife and a number of festivals throughout the year.

Where to stay: Stay on the waterfront at Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains.

13/30

Berry

Ninety minutes south of Sydney, the town of Berry is nestled between Kangaroo Valley and the beach, making it truly unique. Go swimming in the morning, bush walking in the day, enjoy wine tastings in the late afternoon, followed by dinner at one of many acclaimed restaurants in town. Picture: Alamy

Where to stay: Modern with a dash of retro, The Berry View is a 3-star hotel with free parking that's a stone's throw from the centre of town.

14/30

Mollymook

The splendour of Mollymook beach, is apparent not only because of the frolicking whales and dolphins, but also the 2km stretch of white sands and the large natural rock pool. Learn to surf, play some golf, eat the delicious fare at Rick Stein at Bannisters, or simply get horizontal and devour a book. The town is just over three hours south of Sydney, or two and a half east of Canberra.

Where to stay: Mollymook Seascape Motel & Apartments is the perfect stop road trip. Guests rave about its cleanliness and service.

15/30

Port Stephens

Two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney, just past Newcastle, lies Port Stephens, a water and sand dune playground. Check out the Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and have a go at sandboarding or 4WDing. Or go kayaking, swimming, fishing, waterskiing and more in the marine park that’s twice the size of Sydney Harbour. Or if flattening yourself on a towel for a snooze in the sun is more up your alley, choose from one of area's 26 incredible beaches.

Where to stay: The Anchorage Hotel & Spa for a Hampton-style holiday.

16/30

Thredbo

Known for its ski fields, this Snowy Mountains town is also bustling in the warmer months. Take on the hugely popular Kosciuszko Walk, or keep an eye out for the valley's fun food and drink festivals.  Enjoy bush trails, bobsleds, horse riding and fishing in the Snowy River. Thredbo is 5.5 hours south of Sydney, and 2.5 from Canberra.

Where to stay: Summer or winter, the Thredbo Alpine Hotel is a winner with large rooms for families and a program of activities for kids.

17/30

Bermagui

A gem in the Sapphire Coast’s crown is undoubtedly Bermagui, a town known for its deep sea fishing, pretty harbor, grower’s market, and surrounding vineyards. Dip your toes in at Cuttagee Beach. the Blue Pool (pictured) and Wallaga Lake, or stay dry and go for a bushwalk in Mimosa Rocks National Park or Camel Rock. Bermagui is just over five hours south of Sydney, or about three from Canberra.

Where to stay: Choose from 100+ holiday homes on Airbnb.

18/30

Mudgee

If you’re into your food and wine, this town, just under four hours north-west of Sydney, is your short break gold mine. Vineyards are scattered around the valley, and the Mudgee Wine and Food Festival brings people from all over the state in spring. Take a drive to the Mudgee Observatory, or enjoy a tipple at one of the many cellar doors. UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is also well worth a visit.

Where to stay: Vineyard accommodation is a must in Mudgee. Our pick? Farmers Quarters.

19/30

Bowral

Idyllic Bowral in the Southern Highlands is known for its tulips, cricket history, vineyards and great food. Enjoy fly fishing, local galleries, or scenic drives, all within two hours from Sydney or Canberra. While you’re there, squeeze neighbouring historical Berrima into the itinerary too, with a scenic drive along the Illawarra route.

Where to stay: Links House is a serene and charming guesthouse with free brekky and on-site parking.

20/30

Central Coast

This region, just north of Sydney, has been experiencing a quiet resurgence in recent years with upmarket hotels like the recently refurbished Beachcomber at Toukley (think Miami with an Aussie accent), the Studio Lane coffee hub at Erina, Treetops Adventure Park (pictured) and The Drifter’s Wharf complex which serves excellent cocktails while dishing up live entertainment from the likes of Client Liaison. In other words, not the Central Coast you remember from your youth. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: The Beachcomber Hotel and Resort commands a waterfront position with a pool surrounded by palm trees.

21/30

Parkes

Giant radio telescopes and Australia’s best Elvis Festival aside, the Somewhere Down The Lachlan sculpture trail is one of the finest in the country combining beautiful surrounds with thought-provoking art. The nearby town of Forbes is also a beauty with a phalanx of heritage buildings and the rev-heads’ delight that is McFeeters Motor Museum. (pictured). Check out the Ikon at Hotel Gracelands and try the Elvis Cheesecake. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Hotel Gracelands, naturally.

22/30

Lord Howe Island

Named by National Geographic as one of the world’s best destinations in 2023, this Unesco World Heritage listed island is limited to only 400 visitors at any time. It’s that fragile and precious. Pristine ocean, coral reefs and the Neds Beach Special Purpose Zone where you can hand feed fish are just some of the attractions. Do the Valley of The Shadows trail and check into the gorgeous Capella Lodge. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Capella Lodge for breathtaking views.

23/30

Cowra

It might not be mentioned as often as Margaret River or the Hunter Valley, but Cowra plays host to over 30 vineyards – many of which champion biodynamic farming methods. We like Wallington Wines as the produce is not only certified organic but there is a variety to suit most palates, from chardy to rose to Tempranillo. The nearby site of a POW camp from World War II it teems with unique history and the Japanese Garden is one of Australia’s best green spaces. If you’re into photography, check out the masterclasses held by local talent David Magro. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: With its exceptional 9.6/10 customer rating on Expedia, Cowra Services Club Motel is centrally position, clean and family friendly.

24/30

Dubbo

The key attraction here is the super family-friendly Taronga Western Plains Zoo – which is home to over 4000 creatures,  offers accomm and has a gorgeous new star: one-horned rhino calf Hari. You’re also close to Warrumbungle National Park, Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. If you want to get the pulse pounding, check out the paddleboarding, waterskiing or kayaking options on Lake Burrendong. Back in town, hit up the Milestone Hotel which dates from 1882 and is a classic country pub. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Visiting the zoo? Stay on site at one of its self-contained Savannah Cabins.

25/30

Tumut

This town in the western foothills of the NSW Snowy Mountains is particularly fetching in autumn. As the temperatures drop, the local foliage explodes into colour and there are a bunch of activities to try – biking, canoeing, swimming (for the brave), hiking and fly fishing. Time your visit for April and you can soak in the Falling Leaf Festival. For a laidback meal, hit up the Tumut River Brewing Company (pictured) and for something a bit fancy, Three Blue Ducks at Nimbo Fork Lodge is a winner. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Reflections Tumut River has budget-friendly family cabins as well as powered sites for campervans.

26/30

Broken Hill

Now you’re talking proper outback. Enormous skies, red dust, distant horizons. The Living Desert Sculpture Trail – created by a dozen international artists – is a non negotiable. If you can swing it, plan your visit for September and the Broken Heel Festival that is inspired by Priscilla, Queen of The Desert – where several iconic scenes were filmed. Also check out the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery –and order a soda spider at Bells Milk Bar – Australia’s oldest. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Driving through? Ibis Styles Broken Hill is family friendly and the S-Que restaurant does a mean pizza.

27/30

Port Macquarie

Did you know Port Macquarie has 17 beaches? And that you can take a camel safari on one of them? The Koala Hospital  in historic Roto House is the perfect place to get up close to these creatures. In short, PM is a family favourite where you can pick strawberries at Ricardoes or challenge to clan to an escape room if the weather is a tad dodgy. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges delights in a waterfront location that can't be beat.

28/30

Coffs Harbour

Another coastal destination ideal for families, Coffs is a bit of an undiscovered and multifaceted gem. The Butterfly House will delight visitors of all ages, there’s whale watching opportunities galore and the weekly Harbourside Markets on Sundays will provide bulk retail therapy. Try the always popular Stunned Mullet for prime local seafood. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Choose from one of 10 apartment style rooms at Club Wyndham Coffs Harbour.

29/30

Newcastle

Once an industrial city with a half-decent footy team, Newcastle has, in recent years, seen an influx of new hotels, restaurants, cafes and stores. Add these to some of the best low-key beaches in the state and you've got an ideal long weekend destination if you don't want too long a trip from Sydney. The Newcastle Food Month runs throughout April and is well worth checking out. For an excellent seafood lunch, check out the Peregrin restaurant at the newly refurbed The Beach Hotel.

Where to stay: The Crystalbrook Kingsley hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the city and its surrounds.

30/30

Narooma

Aside from being one of the most euphonious towns in Australia, Narooma is in close to the Montague Island Nature Reserve. On the 6^th and 7^th of May, it also holds the Narooma Oyster Festival and the turquoise waters of the Wagonga Inlet will have you thinking you’re in the Maldives. The Quarterdeck bar and restaurant is uber stylish – try the Jungle Bird cocktail with Appleton rum, Campari and pineapple. Photography: Destination NSW.

Where to stay: Discovery Parks Narooma has lovely cabins that sleep up to six, each with their own parking space.

See also:

28 unforgettable road trips in NSW.

20 top foodie stops on a NSW roadtrip.

10 best national parks for camping in NSW.