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The best day trips from Sydney for a dreamy day out

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 from 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 tiny houses to stay in and the best camping spots ..

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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 the 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. 

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, book an epic advenuture with Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company , 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 dunes of Stockton Beach ( the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere ) 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 there, 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.  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 , or rent a sprawling luxury home from Supercalla Private Properties . 

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 for a dose of awe and adrenaline.

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 Barn . Stop by Eschalot for a hatted fine-dining experience in 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.

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. Note: the site is culturally significant  for the local Aboriginal community,  the  Tharawal people, so tread with care.

How far? 100km

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

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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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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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Wattamolla, Royal National Park Sydney, New South Wales © Filippo Rivetti, Destination NSW

The best day trips from Sydney

Drive a few hours out of Sydney to find fresh produce, world-class wines and beautiful beaches and coastline.

By Paul Chai  

Take a break for the day and head out of  Sydney . You can take a beach break along the South Coast and learn to surf, you can walk in the footsteps of the first Aboriginals at the Royal National Park or you can taste wine at one of the oldest wine regions in the country.

Palm Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Adam Krowitz

Did you know?

Palm Beach is the setting for Summer Bay, the fictional beach in the television show Home and Away .

Where: Just over an hour drive from the city centre.

At the apex of Sydney's stunning Northern Beaches is  Palm Beach , which sits on a narrow peninsula surrounded by golden sand and sparkling water. Take a coffee stop on the way up at  The Boathouse , a wooden cottage right on the water where you can try the buttermilk scones with fresh strawberries with your caffeine hit. Once at “Palmy”, as the locals know it, take a swim at the beach or climb to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. The Barrenjoey Head Aquatic Reserve walk to the lighthouse starts with a stroll along a small patch of beach, where jet skis create swirls of whitewash in Pittwater. When the track curls inland you can choose to go straight ahead on the Service Road or take the steeper, shorter Smugglers Track. Halfway up you get an amazing view back along the twin crescents of Palm Beach and Pittwater that bracket the lush headland.

Royal National Park

Curracurrong Falls, Royal National Park, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Where: A one-hour drive south of the city centre.

The  Royal National Park  offers 15 hectares (37 acres) of thick bush, clifftop walks and hidden swimming spots. Walk the beginning section of the 26-kilometre (16-mile) Coast Track, where the traditional owners – the Dharawal people – used to gather on rocks and create art. Nearby you can see engravings that are more than 1000 years old, find shell middens and discover Depression-era cave dwellings where hard-up locals used to live. In whale watching season (May to November) the cliffs are a great places from which to spot humpback whales as they head along the coast. You can finish off with a dip at Garie Beach.

Where: Just under a two-hour drive west of the city.

The  Blue Mountains  offer forest walks through ancient trees and ferns, the famous Three Sisters rock formations at  Echo Point Lookout , and fabulous food. Stop in Medlow Bath for a high tea at the opulent  Hydro Majestic Hotel , which underwent a massive makeover in 2015 and now offers excellent tea and cakes in its Art Deco surrounds. Have lunch at historic  Lochiel House , a fine diner in a historic coach house where you can lunch on steak tartare or grilled octopus. On the way back to Sydney, take the back road, the Bells Line of Road, and call in at  Bilpin Cider Co , where you can sample the local brew made from fruit grown in the surrounding valley.

Southern Highlands

Centennial Vineyards, Bowral, New South Wales © Kramer Photography

The Southern Highlands is also home to a number of  wineries  where you can enjoy a flight of cool-climate wines or a long lunch overlooking the vineyards.

Where: A one-hour drive south-west of the city.

The New South Wales Southern Highlands is a region of rural townships set among rolling hills and state forest. At Bowral visit the  Bradman Centre , a cricket museum in honour of Australia's most famous player, Sir Donald Bradman. Shop for antiques at  Dirty Janes , a vintage market, or grab a bite at the  Mill Café  in a huge old building with a giant cockatoo mural on the wall. Dine on delicious modern Thai food at Paste in Mittagong, or head to Berrima, to browse the shops and enjoy a drink at the historic sandstone  Surveyor General Inn , built in 1834. 

The South Coast

Blowhole Point Rock Pool, Kiama, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Where:  Just over an hour south of Sydney when you pass the Royal National Park.

Take the  Grand Pacific Drive , which heads out over the water on the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge then on to the seaside towns of Wollongong and Kiama. Wollongong and surrounds are full of beaches, small coastal towns and coastal walks and cycleways. At Kiama visit the famous Kiama Blowhole, where the crashing waves are forced up through a hole in the cliff, forming a huge fountain. Play golf at the rural golf course with great views and kangaroos for company, or walk parts of the Kiama Coast Walk , which weaves through stunning headland, rivers and secluded beaches.

The Hunter Valley

Tyrrell's, Pokolbin, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Where:  About a 2.5-hour drive north of Sydney.

The  Hunter Valley , one of Australia's premier wine regions, offers a range of adventurous ways to explore the region, from an early morning hot air balloon to  horseriding  through the vineyards. But most people come for the food and wine. Have lunch at  Muse  in Pokolbin, considered the best restaurant in the valley, or try nearby  Restaurant Botanica , that has its own kitchen garden. Taste wine at  Tyrrell's , a winery that dates back to 1858, try the more modern  Tempus Two  with its striking cellar door, or sip local bubbles at  Peterson House .

Shoalhaven Region

Where: About 2.5 hours south of Sydney.

The  Shoalhaven Region  has white sand beaches, an emerging foodie scene based around the area's amazing fresh produce, and quaint coastal towns. At  Berry,  a country town with heritage buildings set among lush farmland, you can get freshly baked bread at the  Berry Sourdough Bakery & Café , piping hot treats from the Berry Donut Van  and an old-school pub beer at the  Great Southern Hotel . Work off your foodie binge at Murrays Beach, where the clear blue waters are ideal for snorkelling. Spot dolphins in the water and kangaroos on the beach in Jervis Bay, or head to Mollymook to stay and dine in luxury at Bannisters .

Where: 1.5 hours south from Sydney

The beachy suburb of Wollongong can be as relaxing or adrenaline-fuelled as you like. Along the way, be sure to take a detour for the  Symbio Wildlife Park  (just off the Princes Highway) to meet the local mammal population of native and exotic wildlife. Continue along the scenic route via the Sea Cliff Bridge and stop for lunch at the  Scarborough Hotel . This casual pub has some of the best views of the sweeping coastline. Beachgoers are spoilt for choice in “The Gong” (as it’s affectionately known to locals), with picturesque soft sand beaches, great surfing waves, ocean pools and picnic areas. The most popular option is the swimmer-friendly North Beach, though City Beach in the city centre tends to get wilder waves. Book a private lesson with the  Illawarra Surf Academy  and learn how to surf with the locals at Thirroul and Corrimal (just north of Wollongong). With more than 40 kilometres (25 miles) of shared paths threaded across the Wollongong coast, cycling is on par with surfing as the local pastime. Rent a set of wheels from  South Coast Bike Hire  and hit the waterfront cycleway, or for the thrill-seekers,  Skydive Sydney-Wollongong  will take you on a scenic plane ride over the coast before you make the crucial jump from 14,000 feet up. Largely considered one of the most spectacular skydives in Australia, you’ll get to take in the dramatic views over Wollongong before landing on North Beach.

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Top 5 easy day trips from Sydney

Oct 7, 2023 • 7 min read

Hiking to Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains National Park © Olga Kashubin / Getty Images

Sure, Sydney has enough going on to make even the most hardened traveler consider selling up and sticking down roots here, but step out a little further and you’ll soon discover that this entire region of Australia brims with breathtaking natural beauty, Aboriginal and colonial history and plenty of domestic critters to spot. 

The Blue Mountains draw walkers for their epic bush-clad vistas and hidden valleys with prehistoric forests. You'll find the Hawkesbury River region and Sydney's south Royal National Park both offer spectacular walking with water views. The Central Coast stretches north with uncrowded surf beaches and inlets rich with sea birds. And the Hunter Valley is blessed with leafy country roads dotted with producers of fine wine, chocolates and cheese. 

These are the best day trips from Sydney.

Hike rainforests and waterfalls in the Blue Mountains

Travel time: 1.5-2 hours by car, 2 hours by train

The cool haze that gives the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains their name comes from a fine mist of oil exuded by huge eucalyptuses. There are eight connected conservation areas here rising to 1100m (3609ft), with lush rainforests and epic waterfalls that can be explored on well-marked hikes (of varying lengths). 

You’ll also have the opportunity to gain insights into the mountains' importance to their traditional Aboriginal custodians by taking a guided tour. These are the homelands of six Aboriginal groups: the Darug, Gundungurra, Wiradjuri, Wanaruah, Darkinjung and Tharawal. You’ll see one of the best showcases of Aboriginal rock art in the region at Red Hand Caves near Glenbook. 

Trees form a dense canopy across a landscape of deep, and sometimes inaccessible, valleys and chiseled sandstone outcrops. In fact, some valleys are so hard to reach, a species of tree once considered extinct, the Wollemi pine, was rediscovered in a valley here in 1994. 

The three most popular walking areas for day trippers are the Jamison Valley, south of Katoomba , the Grose Valley, north of Blackheath, and the Wentworth Falls area. Some top choices include the Giant Stairway and the Grand Canyon Walk. Do take note: these ravines can be surprisingly cool throughout the year, so bring a warm layer.

How to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney: Hourly trains to Katoomba take two hours from Sydney's Central Station. You can then walk from here, or catch the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus to tour the region, with options ranging from one-hour tours to all-day hop-on-hop-off tickets to see it all.

Get hiking, canoeing and photographing Royal National Park 

Travel time: 1 hour by car, two hours via train and ferry

To Sydney's south, the  Royal National Park  protects 15,091 hectares (3,7290 acres) over a 32km (20 miles) stretch of beautiful coast. It is also one of the world's oldest national parks – declared in 1879. As well as secluded beaches, sea cliffs, heathlands and forest, the park protects a cornucopia of Australian animals including wallabies, lyrebirds and raucous flocks of yellow-tailed black cockatoos. 

Audley, at the junction of Kangaroo Creek and the Hacking River, is home to the main visitors center and is the perfect place to pick up park maps, have a picnic or hire a canoe to get out on the river. There are a number of walks to tackle in the park including the fabulous 26km (16 miles) Coast Track, but unless you’re Usain Bolt, you will only have time to complete one of the shorter marked trails during a day trip.

The park is also home to the Insta-famous Figure Eight Pools , a series of figure of eight-shaped tidal pools near Burning Palms Beach. Visible only at low tide, it’s a two-hour hike to the rock shelf so try to arrive in the morning and only visit when it’s safe to do so – freak waves can (and do!) wipe out visitors. Check the National Park website for details.

How to get to the Royal National Park from Sydney: The easiest way to visit is by car ($12 per vehicle per day). For public transport take the train to Cronulla (45-60 minutes) Sydney's Central Station, where Cronulla Ferries travel hourly to Bundeena (45 mins). 

See Aboriginal rock art and birdlife in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Travel time: 1 hour by car, 2 hours by bus

The majestic Hawkesbury River flows to the ocean past honeycomb-colored cliffs, historic townships and into quiet bays and inlets. It passes through a series of national parks, including the spectacular Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park . Declared in 1894, its name comes from its original inhabitants, the Guringai people. Remnants of pre-colonial Aboriginal life are visible today thanks to the preservation of more than 800 sites, including rock paintings, middens and cave art.

For information about Ku-ring-gai and walks in the area stop by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service information center at Bobbin Head  (accessible by car). There’s also a marina, picnic areas, a cafe and a boardwalk leading through mangroves here.

Further inland, t​he riverside hamlet of Wisemans Ferry (yes that’s the town’s name) spills over a bow of the Hawkesbury River. It’s another perfect spot to access the Hawkesbury, and its natural environs rich with bird life like kookaburras and sea eagles.

The surrounding area retains remnants of the convict-built Great North Road, originally constructed to link Sydney with the Hunter Valley and now part of UNESCO's Australian Convict Sites World Heritage listing . As well as walks, consider booking a boat tour or hire a kayak and get out on the river. Even better if you have the time, do as Sydney locals love to do and stay longer on a houseboat.

How to get to Hawkesbury River from Sydney:  Take the train from Central Station to Hawkesbury River Station and explore the river by boat. Buses also run from central Sydney’s Wynyard to Mona Vale and then on to ​​Church Point where you can get a ferry across to the park. The journey there takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Discover secret beaches and forests along the Central Coast

Travel time: a full-day return driving tour

The Central Coast runs between Sydney and Newcastle and includes some gorgeous beaches, swathes of national park and a series of inlets and saltwater lagoons. Closer to Sydney, the southern end of the Central Coast near Ettalong can be accessed by ferry from Sydney's Palm Beach. On the north side of the mouth of the Hawkesbury are the enticing Killcare Beach, Pearl Beach and Bouddi National Park . 

Beyond this, you’ll need a car and there are many epic spots to stop off on a day trip north to Newcastle, including the pelican-packed town of The Entrance and deep, placid Lake Macquarie. Popular beaches to take a dip along the way include Avoca or Terrigal. 

The more industrial Newcastle is blessed with an eclectic mix of historic architecture, as well as a much-loved beach and ocean baths. South of Newcastle Beach, below King Edward Park, is Australia’s oldest ocean bath, the convict-carved Bogey Hole . It’s an atmospheric place to splash about in when the surf’s crashing over its edge. The most popular surfing breaks are at Bar Beach and Merewether Beach, two ends of the same beach a bit further south. Merewether has huge ocean baths of its own.

How to get to the Central Coast from Sydney: If driving, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north towards Newcastle from Sydney where the Gosford exit will take you along the coast. 

Go food and wine touring around the Hunter Valley 

Travel time:   a full-day return drive, or coach tour

Picturesque roads criss-cross this verdant valley, but a country drive isn’t the main reason to visit. Over two hours' drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is famous as Australia’s oldest wine region, with vines dating from the 1860s. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Sydney for fine wine, gourmet restaurants, boutique beer, chocolate, cheese, olives, you name it. It’s also a beautiful spot to go hot-air ballooning while in Australia.  

You’ll probably recognize some of Australia’s biggest names in new world wines, especially for semillon, shiraz and chardonnay. The valley’s 150-plus wineries range from small-scale, family-run affairs to massive commercial operations so let your nose guide you. Most offer cellar door tastings either free or for a small fee. You can get a copy of the free touring map from the Hunter Valley visitor center and use it to hunt out the tucked-away small producers.

If no one’s volunteering to stay sober, there are plenty of guided coach tours available, ranging from mini buses that just do basic hop-on-hop-off transport between wineries to full-on gourmet extravaganzas, some on bicycle, horseback or chauffeured in a classic car. 

How to get to the Hunter Valley from Sydney: If driving, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north to Newcastle from Sydney where the Hunter Expressway will lead you into the valley.

This article was first published Jul 25, 2021 and updated Oct 7, 2023.

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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!

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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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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Day Trips from Sydney

15 Best Day Trips from Sydney

Sydney has long been one of Australia’s most iconic cities and many would argue its merit as the nation’s cultural capital is thanks to instantly recognisable sights like the beautiful Sydney Opera House.

However, a trip here also means a world of possibilities outside the city limits and you’ll be hard pressed to find a region with more to offer than the area surrounding Sydney.

With genuinely unparalleled beauty in every direction, you can head up into the mountains or relax on one of the countless gorgeous beaches.

You can take river cruises and marvel at Australia’s famed wildlife or you can immerse yourself in culture on aboriginal heritage trails.

You can partake in every extreme sport imaginable or you can sample some of the finest cuisine in the country.

Sydney truly is a gateway to endless possibilities – so check out this handy guide to find out where to start.

1. Palm Beach

Famous nationwide and indeed, around the globe, for its stunning golden sand, sweeping coastal views and world-class surf, Palm Beach is an ideal and convenient city escape to unwind in the sun.

Thanks to its location on the popular Northern Beaches, the area also happens to be a hotbed of activity.

You can hire a boat to whisk you round the turquoise waters, hike around the sand dunes near the Barrenjoey Lighthouse or play a relaxing game of golf.

If you work up an appetite, there are countless places to whet your appetite, including the highly recommended Boathouse where you can indulge in the freshest of seafood.

2. Royal National Park

Boasting the title of the second oldest National Park in the world, the Royal National Park combines pristine beaches with cliff-fringe forest peppered with valleys and rivers – creating a veritable haven for nature lovers and adventurers.

If you want to push into the heathland, then hiring a canoe and heading up the Hacking River is a favourite option, or if you want to stick to the coast, you can hike the expansive cliff network.

Whether you travel with a guide on The Royal National Park Coastal Tour or you explore by yourself, the attractions are truly endless, with everything on offer from whale-watching to bushwalking to snorkelling, fishing and surfing.

3. Hunter Valley

A couple of hours away from Sydney, you’ll find not only an area of gastronomic prowess and a unanimously agreed upon foodie haven, but also a prime hiking destination popular with nature lovers.

Hunter Valley is a fertile valley famous for its fresh produce such as cheeses and oils and is full of excellent restaurants offering succulent tasting menus.

To work up your appetite however, you can embark on World Heritage-listed nature trails like Wollemi National Parks or the Hunter Valley Gardens.

Here you can find eucalyptus fields, kangaroo populations and much more.

4. Blue Mountains National Park

A beautifully surreal destination for a day trip, the Blue Mountains National Park gets its name from the blue haze that lies over the mountains as a result of the hundreds of thousands of eucalyptus plants gently releasing their scented oil into the air.

The area is a vast expanse of unspoiled wilderness, packed with gorges, hiking trails, eucalyptus forest and aboriginal rock paintings.

A guided tour will teach you all about the various flora and fauna as well as the legendary aboriginal stories whereas an unguided tour will give you the chance to explore the various attractions and breathtaking viewpoints at your own pace.

5. Manly Beach

A mere 30 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay, you’ll find the beloved beachfront suburb of Manly Beach, where the water is deep blue and feasting yourself on fish and chips is mandatory.

This coastal community offers everything you could want when it comes to classic Australian beach culture, including excellent waves to surf, beachfront shops, malls and restaurants, not to mention a gorgeous beach to bask on.

A veritable hotbed of beach activity that is irresistibly close to Sydney, you’ll be tempted to come back to Many Beach over and over again.

6. Hawkesbury River

Forming the boundary of the Ku-ring-gai National Park, the Hawkesbury River was one of the first settled rivers in Australia and to this day still has some original farms dotted along its banks.

A tour along the river will take you past various small villages and its highly recommended to explore the towns of Richmond or Windsor to explore their markets, galleries, listed buildings and rich histories.

7. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Incredibly, less than an hour away from Sydney lies one of the Australia’s most historically significant national parks, on account of its Aboriginal heritage.

The deep-rooted cultural roots here can be experienced as you trek through the bush on the Aboriginal Heritage Walk where you’ll discover ancient rock paintings, engravings and handprints at numerous indigenous sites.

As well as this, the area is without a doubt, stunningly beautiful and you can soak up the panoramic views from places like West Head Lookout.

8. Port Stephens

Home to more than 20 beaches, Port Stephens Bay is a marine playground twice the size of Sydney Harbour, comprising of an enormous stretch of golden sands and bushy coastline.

Whether you want to swim with dolphins, go on a whale-watching cruise, snorkel or partake in watersports, it’s all possible thanks to the Great Lakes Marine Park that resides in the Port Stephens area.

If you’re looking for photo opportunities, then head up to one of the famed viewpoints such as Gan Gan Lookout or Tomaree Headland lookout where you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views off the beautiful coastline.

9. Canberra

Beloved capital of the nation and filled to the brim with cultural attractions, Canberra is a meticulously designed city with quirky aesthetics in mind and countless activities to keep you entertained.

From fantastic museums, galleries and gardens, Canberra exhibits all the characteristics of a popular and prospering capital.

You can actually view its deliberate design from the summit of Mount Ainslie, where you’ll notice the geometric array of colorful parkland fanning out from Lake Burley Griffin at the center.

At three hours from Sydney, an overnight stay might be in order but it’s also a wonderful place just to spend the day.

10. The Southern Highlands

A vast area containing a great many popular destinations, The Southern Highlands are known for their incomparable beauty full of spectacular waterfalls, gorges swathed in lush green rainforests and valleys teeming with native Australian wildlife.

In fact, this is one of the area’s highlights as you can find everything from kangaroos to wombats to platypuses and possums here.

A great way to truly appreciate the breathtaking majesty of the area is to head up to Morton National Park, which contains some of the region’s best lookout points.

11. Tobruk Sheep Station

One for either sheep lovers or those looking to get a rare insight into traditional rural Aussie culture, Tobruk Sheep Station is located in the picturesque Hawkesbury River Valley and once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a day filled with boomerang throwing, sheep-shearing and herding and a host of other activities that demonstrate the life of an Australian ranch hand.

Ideal for families, you can also enjoy an Australian barbecue and learn how to bake traditional bread over a crackling fire.

12. Kangaroo Valley

Though kangaroos can be found here, the name is a slight misnomer owing to the fact that the highlight of this region a couple of hours south of Sydney isn’t in fact kangaroos, but the rich gastronomic culture that exists here.

From wine tasting at the Yarrawa Estate Winery to the Flavours of the Valley Foodie Trail where you can sample or learn gourmet cooking, the fertile lands perfectly lend themselves to a number of mouthwatering experiences.

For something a little more active, you can also kayak down Kangaroo River or embark on a horseback ride through rainforests and open plains.

The verdant green coastal cliffs of Kiama provide the perfect place to escape from the city for a few hours and provide a wonderfully picturesque backdrop to the many rocky shores, private beaches and rivers below.

Though you can keep yourself entertained wandering around this beautiful region, you can also partake in a number of activities like kayaking tours, outdoor rock climbing and dolphin watching cruises.

One of the highlights of the area however, is the Kiama Blowhole, which creates a majestic fountain of water propelled out of a blowhole in the side of the cliff.

14. Mermaid Pools

The Mermaid Pools are a series of idyllic pools and springs fed by rivers from the Tahmoor Gorge deep in the Australian bush.

Reaching them is an adventure in itself as you need to navigate steep rocky platforms and steps to get there, but it’s well worth the effort once you arrive.

An undisputed highlight is the stop at The See Through Pools which are ideal for swimming in due to the clarity of the water and the unobstructed views of the underwater rock formations.

15. Stanwell Park

Most famously known for being the location of the first box kite flight, Stanwell Park is now a hotbed of paragliding and hang gliding activity, concentrated around Bald Hill.

It’s a wonderful place to spend the day and enjoy lunch outdoors while watching the various aeronautical enthusiasts float around.

The moderately light hike along the Wodi Wodi walking track is also an ideal option for those looking to enjoy some coastal views and if you’re tempted, you can also make your way down to one of the golden beaches for a swim.

15 Best Day Trips from Sydney:

• Royal National Park
• Hunter Valley
• Blue Mountains National Park
• Manly Beach
• Hawkesbury River
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
• Port Stephens
• The Southern Highlands
• Tobruk Sheep Station
• Kangaroo Valley
• Mermaid Pools
• Stanwell Park

11 Top-Rated Day Trips from Sydney

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Surrounded by sparkling waterways and World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, Sydney brims with alluring day trip destinations. A short hop from the city, you can see the raw beauty of the Blue Mountains, cruise up the bush-fringed Hawkesbury River, or bask on one of Sydney's golden beaches.

Sydney day trip ideas cover all interests - from sand boarding and fishing at Port Stephens to whale watching along the coast, and wildlife viewing in pristine national parks. Scenic road trips take you to other rewarding places to visit near Sydney - on a Wollongong day trip, you can cruise along the cliff-hugging ocean-view Grand Pacific Drive.

Cultural experiences are just as appealing. Spend a day exploring the galleries, museums, and memorials of Canberra, the nation's capital. Stroll along an Aboriginal heritage trail in beautiful Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, or for something completely different, watch Aussie stockmen round up the sheep on a classic country farm, and sample traditional bush tucker.

Foodies will also be happy. Farm-fresh produce and gourmet restaurants await at some of the quaint country towns in the Southern Highlands and Hunter Valley. Plan your adventures with our list of the best day trips from Sydney.

1. Blue Mountains National Park

2. the hunter valley, 3. manly beach, 4. hawkesbury river cruise, 5. ku-ring-gai chase national park, west head, and the northern beaches, 6. royal national park, 7. port stephens, 8. wollongong & the grand pacific drive, 9. canberra: australia's capital, 10. the southern highlands, 11. tobruk sheep station, map of day trips from sydney.

A UNESCO World Heritage Area of breathtaking beauty, the Blue Mountains is one of the most popular day trips from Sydney. The oil in the eucalyptus leaves scents the air and imbues a blue haze over the park, inspiring its evocative name. When it comes to scenic places around Sydney, it's hard to beat the Blue Mountains.

Tourists and locals alike come here to immerse themselves in the 664,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. Dense eucalyptus forests, rugged gorges, waterfalls, Aboriginal rock paintings, and more than 140 kilometers of hiking trails are waiting to be explored.

Among the many highlights of the Blue Mountains are the massive rock formations called the Three Sisters , a photographer's favorite; Bridal Veil Falls ; and the hair-raising ride down the Jamison Valley on the Katoomba Scenic Railway . Heart-stopping lookout points abound throughout the park.

Popular things to do here include abseiling, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking.

You can access the Blue Mountains by car from the city via the M4 Motorway. This is also one of the most popular day trips from Sydney by train - you can travel from Central Station in Sydney to Blackheath or Katoomba.

Better still, let someone else do the driving and join the Blue Mountains Nature and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney . On this full-day tour, you can visit the quaint mountain towns of Leura, see kangaroos and koalas at Sydney Zoo, and enjoy spectacular views over the park. Your guide will also share Aboriginal legends behind some of the park's top landmarks. For a different perspective of the park, the optional upgrade includes a ride on the railway or cableway at Scenic World.

About 250 kilometers from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is a popular city escape and a hot spot for foodies. This beautiful, fertile valley is one of Australia's oldest grape-growing regions and is also known for its fresh produce and artisan foods, such as cheeses, chutneys, chocolate, aromatic oils, olives, and luscious golden honey. The region's superb restaurants spotlight this gastronomic bounty in mouthwatering tasting menus.

After sampling all the scrumptious foods, you can work off the calories outdoors. Popular things to do in the Hunter Valley include hiking the nature trails at World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops and Wollemi National Parks , and exploring the region's elegant architecture on heritage trails. You can also soar over the bucolic landscapes in a hot air balloon.

In the 19th century, the Hunter Valley was a prosperous coal mining center, and many of the old mansions in the area reflect this wealth. Stop by the regional museums to learn more about the area's rich history, and save time to admire the exhibitions at Maitland Regional Art Gallery and Newcastle Art Gallery .

Another popular attraction is the Hunter Valley Gardens , with more than 60 acres of horticultural treasures and themed gardens. For travelers on a tight timeline, hot air balloon rides or helicopter rides are a great way to soak up the scenery.

Feasting on fish and chips at the beach is a favorite Aussie dining experience, and Manly is a top spot to indulge. When it comes to Sydney day trip ideas, this is an easy one to organize, and the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination. From Circular Quay, this famous beachfront suburb is a scenic 30-minute ferry ride, with plenty of photo opportunities en-route.

Once here, you can soak up a classic dose of Aussie beach culture. Bask on the golden sands; take a dip in the ocean; surf some fantastic breaks; or head to the Corso, a sunny pedestrian mall, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés.

At Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary , you can view sea turtles, tropical fish, and sharks, and even organize a dive with these razor-toothed predators.

And yes, there are plenty of fish 'n' chip shops in Manly. So, hop on a ferry and bring your camera for great photo ops of the Sydney Opera House along the way.

About an hour northwest of Sydney, the Hawkesbury is one of the most beautiful rivers in Australia. It played an important part in the early days of the colony of New South Wales. The first settlers arrived in the area in 1794 and established farms that helped feed the colony. Today, farms still dot the surrounding area, and pockets of unspoiled bush flank the river.

The small villages in the region and the main towns of Windsor and Richmond offer tourist attractions, such as heritage buildings, galleries, gardens, museums, and markets.

On the river, water sports abound, particularly in its lower wide reaches between Brooklyn and Pittwater. Waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and fishing are all popular things to do.

The best way to explore these beautiful waterways is by boat. Brooklyn, Bobbin Head, Berowra Waters, and Wisemans Ferry all offer boat rentals, and you can also join a guided cruise, or hop aboard The Riverboat Postman cruise, which delivers mail to settlements along the river that are only accessible by water.

The Hawkesbury River is surrounded by four national parks. It forms a boundary of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the north of Sydney, and the southern boundary of Brisbane Water National Park . To the northwest is Dharug National Park , famed for its Aboriginal rock drawings, and to the north of Broken Bay is Bouddi National Park . All offer excellent hiking opportunities and a slice of nature not far from the city.

About 45 minutes north of Sydney's CBD, you can escape to nature at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the second oldest national park in Australia. Named for the Guringai aboriginal people who originally lived in this area, the park features beautiful scenery: tranquil bays, bushland creeks, rainforests, eucalyptus forests, and sparkling views along the coast from West Head. From here, you can gaze down upon the blue waters of Pittwater, as well as Broken Bay, Barrenjoey Headland, Lion Island Nature Reserve, and the Central Coast.

You'll find plenty of things to do in Ku-ring-gai National Park. Rewarding activities include hiking the many nature trails, Aboriginal heritage walks, wildlife viewing, birding, and boating on the beautiful bush-fringed waterways. You can rent a boat from Akuna Bay and pull up for a snack or refreshment at one of the cute waterfront cafés or restaurants.

Farther north from here, Palm Beach is a lovely spot to bask on the golden sands, swim, surf, enjoy a picnic, or dine at a beachside café.

The small-group Sydney's Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai National Park bus tour covers all the top things to see and do in the area. See Aboriginal rock art in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, soak up the views from The Spit, Narrabeen, and North Head, and glide past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House on a ferry during the return trip.

Official site: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/Kuringgai-Chase-National-Park

Rimmed by 21 kilometers of surfing beaches and cliff-fringed coast, Royal National Park is a haven for nature buffs and beach lovers. Established in 1879, it is the second oldest national park in the world and lies about an hour's drive south of Sydney's central business district, near Cronulla.

The park sits on a sandstone plateau with deeply indented valleys and a covering of heathland. The Hacking River flows through almost its entire length, creating fantastic opportunities for fishing and boating . On the upper course of the river, patches of forest offer prime bushwalking and picnic spots. Along the coast, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and whale watching are popular pursuits.

Other attractions in the park include Aboriginal rock art and a vast array of wildlife, including more than 241 species of birds.

To access the park, you can drive or catch a ferry from Cronulla, and some walking trails are accessible from nearby railway stations. A visitor center at Audley provides rest areas, informative exhibits, and a café.

If you want to immerse yourself in this stunning wilderness area, the Day Trip To Cronulla & The Royal National Park takes you to some of the park's hard-to-access areas with an expert guide. On this eight-hour private tour, you can customize your itinerary depending on your interests, from visiting beautiful Garie Beach and the Dharawal Aboriginal Engravings Site to a refreshing soak in the rock pools.

Official site: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/Royal-National-Park

Sparkling Port Stephens Bay is a haven for water sports thanks to its Great Lakes Marine Park . This long slice of beautiful bushy coastline lies about 200 kilometers from Sydney's CBD and is more than twice the size of Sydney Harbour, providing plenty of space to get out on the water.

Your biggest dilemma is deciding what to do first. Take your pick: Swim at one of more than 20 pristine beaches, snorkel and dive at Fly Point , surf the swells, go sailing, paddle a kayak, or take a boat cruise. Port Stephens is also one of the top fishing destinations in Australia .

For a breathtaking overview of the region, take the short walk to Gan Gan Lookout, or hike to the top of Tomaree Headland Lookout to admire beautiful views over the bay and islands.

Marine life is also a top draw here. You can swim with wild dolphins, hop aboard a dolphin-watching cruise, or look for migrating humpback whales from November to May.

While you're in the area, stop by Nelson Bay , one of the main towns. Explore the cute shops and fabulous restaurants or stroll along the seaside promenade.

Another fun adventure in the area is sand boarding down the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes , Australia's largest system of dunes. Some rise up to 30 meters in height. You can also explore them on horseback or camelback, or venture in via 4WD.

Port Stephens is also known for its fresh local produce, such as avocados, figs, olives, and macadamia nuts. Sample them at the local farmers markets.

To experience all the region's highlights, the Port Stephens Private Bus Tour from Sydney is a great option. On this exhilarating full-day excursion, you'll explore all the region's natural highlights with an optional dolphin or whale watching cruise, depending on the season. Another optional add-on is a sand-boarding adventure at Anna Bay.

Sun-drenched beaches, bike trails, botanic gardens, and museums - you'll find all this and more in Wollongong. About 80 kilometers south of Sydney, Wollongong ("The Gong") is the state's third largest city, and it's a great spot for a scenic day road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive .

Stretching from the Royal National Park to Nowra, this 140-kilometer scenic drive snakes along the rugged and rocky coast, past surf-washed beaches and over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, which juts out over the sea, tracing the contours of the wind-weathered cliffs. From the viewing platform on the bridge, you can gaze out over mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean and look for migrating whales, in season.

Foodies will also find a diverse array of cafés in the city. Seafood features prominently on Wollongong menus, but you'll find everything here, from vegan food to Vietnamese.

Students from the University of Wollongong fuel the bubbly nightlife , and the city's vibrant arts and culture lure loads of day-trippers and weekend wanderers. Admire Aboriginal art at Wollongong Art Gallery . Stroll through the floral wonders at Wollongong Botanic Garden . See a live Bubbleology show at the Science Space Museum, or chill out at the Nan Tien Temple, the Southern Hemisphere's largest Buddhist shrine .

Prefer outdoor fun? Surf, swim, or paddle along a string of glorious beaches - Austinmer is a favorite, and Belmore Basin offers calm waters for paddling. Or head to the bush. Hike through rainforest, or bike along more than 42 kilometers of trails. Are adrenaline-fueled sports more your style? Hang-glide at Stanwell Park, or sign up for a skydiving adventure. With all these things to do, you might have to turn your Wollongong day trip into a weekend.

Packed with cultural attractions, Canberra in the ACT (Australian Capital Territory) is home to fabulous museums, art galleries, and memorials. This consciously crafted capital of Australia lies about three hours' drive from Sydney and a similar distance from Melbourne. The site was chosen in 1908 as a compromise between these two competing cities.

Designed by award-winning American architects Walter Burley Griffin and his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin, Canberra features expansive parklands, colorful gardens, and a quirky geometric layout. Most of the prime tourist attractions fan out from Lake Burley Griffin , the artificial lake that is the city's centerpiece.

While you're there, be sure to visit New Parliament House, which opened in 1988 after an extensive facelift, and try to time your visit when parliament is in session. Old Parliament House is now home to the excellent Museum of Australian Democracy.

Other highlights include the National Museum of Australia, Questacon - the National Science and Technology Center , the National Library , the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, and the poignant Australian War Memorial .

To appreciate the city's design, visit the summit of 843-meter-high Mount Ainslie . You can drive to the lookout or wander along the two-kilometer trail from the Australian War Memorial.

To see all the top attractions in one day, sign up for the Canberra Full Day Private Tour . This customizable full-day tour from Sydney will take you to your choice of attractions with an expert guide.

Gorgeous gardens, wildlife-rich wilderness areas, and cute country towns are some of the many attractions of the Southern Highlands. About a 90-minute drive from Sydney, this is a great place to see native Australian animals in their natural habitat.

Morton National Park , near Fitzroy Falls , is home to the town's namesake 81-meter-high waterfalls, as well as scenic walking trails through rainforest-cloaked gorges; wildflowers; panoramic lookouts; and many species of birds and animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, echidnas, platypuses, and possums. Lying mostly within the park, the Kangaroo Valley is among Australia's prettiest valleys.

Thanks to the Southern Highland's fertile soils, fresh produce is abundant. And you can sample some of the local specialties at the cozy cafés and restaurants in the small towns and heritage villages.

The region's main towns of Berrima, Bowral, Bundanoon, Mittagong, and Moss Vale are worth exploring. The main attractions here range from historic buildings, art galleries, and local craft studios to boutiques, spas, antique shops, and gardens.

The Southern Highlands are usually cooler than the city with less humidity, so this is a popular country escape on sweltering summer days.

Tobruk Sheep Station offers an authentic taste of Aussie culture. The journey here is scenic in itself. The station lies in the beautiful Hawkesbury River Valley, 70 minutes from downtown Sydney . Along the way, you can admire views of the Hawkesbury River and the Blue Mountains.

Whip-cracking, boomerang throwing, and sheep-shearing demonstrations provide a feel for the life of a typical Aussie stockman, and you can watch them skillfully mustering the sheep with the help of well-trained sheepdogs.

Another favorite activity here is learning how to bake damper (traditional Australian bread) over a crackling fire, and make billy tea. You can also enjoy a classic Aussie BBQ complete with traditional lamington cakes (vanilla sponge cakes smothered in chocolate and coconut) for dessert. This is one of the best day trips from Sydney for families.

More on Australia

Wonderful Day Trips from Sydney

Updated: February 15, 2024

Australia , Oceania

written by: Steph Kloeckener

If you are looking for the best day trips from Sydney, you will love these 12 fantastic destinations. National parks, beaches, towns & more!

As a former Sydneysider (who dreams of moving back), I have been fortunate enough to go on several day trips from Sydney. I absolutely loved these trips as they allowed me to explore the area close to the city I love and my time in Australia would not have been the same without them.

These Sydney day trips allowed me to explore stunning national parks that I wanted to visit over and over again and charming villages with cozy cafés and other sights. While exploring these places, I fell in love with hikes and saw amazing sunsets. And I cannot wait to visit every single location again.

However, I never got the chance to see everything on my list, so fortunately fellow travelers decided to share everything you need to know about these amazing day trip destinations. Therefore, this list contains all the best destinations that are no more than 3 hours away from Sydney’s Central Business District.

This post may contain affiliate links(*), which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full disclosure for further information.

Table of Contents

30 minutes north of Sydney Central Business District

A short 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay in the Sydney CBD, Manly might not be far from Sydney in distance, but with its sweeping sandy beach and seaside feel it seems like a world away. If you want an easy day trip from Sydney that doesn’t need a car, then, add Manly to your itinerary.

Manly is all about sand and the sea so start off with a trip to the famous beach – it’s the perfect place to learn to surf. If you prefer to snorkel, a walk east along the seaside path brings you to the sheltered waters of Shelley Beach. You can also explore the area with a kayak.

Clear-View Kayak Rental (4 Hours)

Head west instead and you’ll find one of Sydney’s most Instagram-friendly sights, the Manly Wormhole, a hidden tunnel in the cliff that brings you to a beautiful sea view.

When you get hungry; the famous Steyne pub on the seafront offers casual dining for the whole family. Or, for something a bit more special, join the beautiful people at Hugo’s on Manly Wharf.

Finish your day at nearby North Head enjoying one of the spooky ghost tours that take place at the old Quarantine Station located high on the cliffs overlooking Sydney. Be sure to read what to expect from a Q Station Ghost Tour !

How to get there: Jump on the ferry at Circular Quay. Choose from the Manly Fast Ferry which will get you there in 20 minutes, or the slightly slower, but cheaper Sydney Ferries service.

Where to stay in Manly : Where to Stay: If you want to prolong your visit, the Q Station hotel offers a stay with a sense of history. The rooms are located in the buildings that made up the old Quarantine Station. Closer to the beach, the Quest Manly comes highly recommended and the apartment-style rooms have gorgeous sea views.

Day Trip from Sydney suggested by Helen at Differentville

2. Royal National Park

50 minutes south of Sydney CBD

One of the best day trips from Sydney is the beautiful Royal National Park. South of the city center and is easily accessible, the Park covers a stunning stretch of coastline and offers beautiful beaches, rainforests, and coastal bushlands.

Sydney’s Royal National Park is great for bushwalking, cycling, surfing, and whale watching during the annual whale migration from May to October. There are scenic walking trails, waterfalls, and a stunning coastal landscape to explore. 

The Royal National Park has a selection of lovely picnic areas, and Audley is a favorite. It’s fun to relax on the grass under a gum tree with a picnic and to paddle up the river in a hired canoe to secluded swimming holes.

At Bundeena there’s a lovely beach and a café. Relax on the sand or head off on the Coastal walking track. Visit the aboriginal rock carvings at Jibbon Head or hike to Wedding Cake Rock, Eagle Head Rock, or Curracurrong Falls, a waterfall that plunges straight into the ocean from high on the cliffs.

If you enjoy surfing, head to Garie Beach. It’s a pristine stretch of sand that faces the open ocean and has a reliable swell.  Nearby Wattamolla is a lovely scenic spot that offers swimming for all the family. There’s a picnic area, and children can paddle and swim safely in the inlet.

Getting there: It’s easiest to drive into the Royal National Park, but you don’t need a car to visit. Just catch a train from Sydney Central to Cronulla. Take the ferry across to Bundeena, and a shuttle bus will take you from the ferry to the most popular places inside the  Park. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Sydney, consider visiting the Royal National Park. It is one of the top day trips from Sydney and makes a great day out.

Where to stay near Royal National Park : Stay in comfort in Cronulla at Rydges Cronulla Beachside or Quest Cronulla Beach .

Explored by Linda from Muy Linda Travels

3. Palm Beach

1 hour north of Sydney

Palm Beach is a beautiful seaside town, located around an hour’s drive north of Sydney. It is great for surfing and other water sports. You will love the crystal clear waters and the many attractions around the beach.

It is located at the top of the peninsula, so you can enjoy the surf beach which is one of the best beaches on the East Coast of Australia , and the side facing the Pittwater Lagoon, which is more peaceful. It can be crowded in summer, but luckily the beach is large enough that you can always find a place away from the crowds.

One of the best things to do in Palm Beach is to hike to the Barrenjoy Lighthouse. It is located at the very top of the peninsula and has some of the best scenery around. You will be able to enjoy panoramic views of one of the best beaches on the east coast of Australia, and hiking is very easy.

It only takes 30 minutes, and although it may be steep in some places, even beginners can easily master it so you do not need exceptional fitness levels. The Barrenjoy Lighthouse is a great place for a picnic and a quick rest before returning and the views are worth the hike.

Hot to get to Palm Beach : If you want to visit this amazing Sydney day trip destination, you can either drive there or take the bus. The L90 bus connects Sydney CBD with Palm Beach and the bis ride takes 1:30 h.

Where to stay near Palm Beach : If you want to stay longer, you should stay at the Palm Beach Bed & Breakfast or rent the Bnb on Burrendong if you are traveling with a bigger group. Another great nearby accommodation is the Refuge Cove on Pittwater .

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

4. Stanwell Tops

1 hour south of Sydney

Stanwell Tops is just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney. However, you can get there via train (which will take approximately 1.5 hours). Stanwell Tops is a beautiful coastal suburb in the Wollongong area of New South Wales, Australia. This makes it the perfect day trip from Sydney as the driving distance is not that far. 

There is plenty to do around this area, but the main attraction would be Stanwell Tops lookout. If you head towards the Lawrence Hargrave monument, this would be the best view in this area. Here, you can spend hours watching people hang glide. 

If you have driven down for the day, you must visit the Sea Cliff Bridge. You can choose to drive over the 665 meters long bridge or park your car and walk across it. However, if you want to take a detour and climb the mountain, the view from the top is worth it. 

The best place to eat is the Scarborough Hotel, with clifftop views to die for and a beer garden that is hands down the best part of the trip. Depending on when you plan to travel there, you may get a glimpse of a whale on the horizon. With live music on many afternoons, this is the perfect place to spend your day trip from Sydney. And the food is pretty good too. 

Where to stay in Stanwell Tops : Headlands Austinmer Beach is not far from The Scarborough Hotel if you plan to stay overnight. The self-contained apartments with ocean views are ideal for a weekend away at any time of the year.

Sydney Day Trip suggested by Paula from Truly Expat

5. Blue Mountains National Park

1:30 h west of Sydney

The Blue Mountains are located west of the city and are likely the most popular day trip from Sydney. In fact, one could even argue that you have not really been to Sydney if you have yet to visit this National Park. Named after the intense blue haze that covers the area and that is caused by the eucalyptus trees, the Blue Mountains are a natural wonderland.

Here, you have waterfalls like the 187 meters high Wentworth Falls, cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and in some areas even ancient rainforests. And if you have always dreamed of seeing glow worms in caves , you can do so by visiting the abandoned Railway tunnel near Lithgow.

With all these amazing places, you can plan many day trips from Sydney and never run out of new things to do in the Blue Mountains .

If you only have one day and are visiting the area for the first time, you should hike along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk from Katoomba to Leura. There are many scenic viewpoints along the way including Echo Point Lookout, which offers the best view of the Three Sisters.

The walk also takes you past Katoomba Falls and the Leura Cascades and is therefore a perfect combination of what the Blue Mountai ns have to offer.

Overall, I think the proximity to the Blue Mountains and other national parks is one of the things that make Sydney worth visiting .

Activities to do during a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney :

Sunset Tour

Abseiling or Canyoning

4WD Tour: Off-the-beaten-track

Glow Worm Adventures

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + Scenic Rides Pass

Nearby :  Megalong Valley Wine Trail

How to get to the Blue Mountains: It takes 1:30 hour to drive to Katoomba, but if you want to go hiking, it is best to catch a train from Sydney Central. The train ride is two hours long and also stops in Leura, which makes it perfect for a hiking day trip from Sydney. And if you go on the weekends, you can even save money thanks to the weekend travel cap of the Opal Card.

Where to stay in the Blue Mountains : If you want to turn your day trip from Sydney into a weekend trip, you should stay at the Echoes Boutique Hotel . The rooms have an incredible view over the surrounding area.

1:30 h south of Sydney

Bowral  is in the New South Wales Southern Highlands. It is one of those day trips from Sydney that has a bit of something for everyone. Anyone with even a passing interest in sport will know Bowral is home to one of Australia’s greatest sporting heroes, Don Bradman. However, Bowral has a lot to offer beyond cricket.

While the International Cricket Hall of Fame will be on the to-do list for some, these days Bowral is known for its café, shopping, and gallery scene. Green Lane featuring Harry’s on the Green, is full of hip cafes and restaurants.

Dirty Janes is in this precinct. Check out their eclectic range of antiques and finish with a sumptuous high tea. Plantation and The Press Shop are two more of the many cafes to try.

Another feature of the town is its parks and gardens. Each September Bowral bursts into color with the Tulip Festival in Corbett Gardens. The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens, Cherry Tree Walk, and Mount Gibraltar Lookout are all great spots for walks and picnics.

How to get there: Bowral is 90 minutes southwest of Sydney, take the Hume Highway via Liverpool. Having a car will let you easily get to the sites around the town. If you want a scenic, but longer, drive back to Sydney, you can return along the coast. There are also up to 3 train services a day departing from Central Station. Return fares are about $25, and the trip takes just under 2 hours.

Where to stay in Bowral : If you spend a weekend in Bowral, you must treat yourself to a night or two in one of its country estates. They combine old-world charm with contemporary luxuries and are a hallmark of the area. Peppers Craigieburn , The Coach House , and Manor House are all good accommodation options.

Explored by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

1:50 h south of Sydney

The picturesque village of Kiama is 125 km south of Sydney on the Illawarra Coast. With the scenery on the drive down almost as lovely as the destination, this is one prettiest day trips from Sydney.

Situated on a natural harbor, Kiama boasts seven beaches and two beautiful rock pools, so this is the perfect spot for a summer day trip. However, there are plenty of things to do in Kiama year-round, including a popular 20 km hiking trail.

The track follows the coastline past some of the area’s most stunning scenery, notably Cathedral Rocks, and is famous for whale spotting between June and October. 

There is a buzzing main street with loads of cafes and restaurants that will have you struggling to choose just one place for lunch. A popular choice is Otis Deli, owned by ex-Ottolenghi head chef Emily Herbert. 

Before you head home, be sure to drop by the famous blowhole, which is easy to find right by the Kiama lighthouse. People have been coming to see this natural feature for over 100 years. 

How to get there: Kiama is easily reached from Sydney by road or train. From the city center, it is 125 km south via the M1 motorway. The trip usually takes about 1:40 hours but turn off at Stanwell Tops and take the Princes Highway (A1) along the coast so you can experience the stunning SeaCliff Bridge and Illawara Beaches as you make your way south. The train trip takes 2hrs 20 min and travels via the Royal National Park before following the coast the rest of the way with views equally as lovely as the road trip. 

Where to stay in Kiama : You will find plenty of accommodation options in this pretty seaside town, from serviced apartments and holiday rentals to the Surf Beach Holiday Park on the headland.  Nova Kiama and the Harbour Cabins are great options.

This day trip from Sydney has been recommended by Paula Morgan from Sydney Expert

2 hours south of Sydney

Located at the Crooked River, this Gerroa is really close to the amazing Seven Mile Beach, which happens to be an amazing spot to watch the sunset. With its natural sights, the area around Gerroa is an ideal city getaway or day trip from Sydney.

The Black Head Reserve at the tip of the Gerroa headland is only a 15-minute drive from the city center and is a must-see as it offers an incredible view of Seven Mile Beach and the coastal area north of Gerroa. 

Additionally, it is the perfect place to whale watch when the whales migrate south from September to November and north from May to August. There are rock pools just north of the headland, so be sure to head there for an hour or two. In addition to that, there are some easy walking tracks in the area.

If you are just starting out, Seven Mile Beach is the perfect place to surf, as the waves tend to be ideal for surfing newbies and intermediate surfers. The beach is also the location of Surf Camp Australia. Therefore, you can easily book a surfing lesson while there.

After exploring the area, you should grab a bite at the Gerroa Boat Fishermans Club. The atmosphere there is great and so is the food.

All in all, Gerroa is a great place to escape the city for a day or two and one of the best day trips from Sydney if you want to relax in nature while venturing slightly off-the-beaten-path.

How to get to this Sydney day trip destination: If you are driving, it takes two hours to drive to Gerroa. If you do not have a car, you can take the hourly train from Sydney’s central station to Kiama Station and then catch a bus or a taxi from Kiama to Gerroa. If you do not want to take the train and do not mind transferring twice, you can take a bus that runs hourly.

Where to stay in Gerroa : The Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park has everything from camping sites to safari tents and cabins right at the beach. If you are looking for a vacation rental and are traveling with a group of friends, you will love Ocean Breeze , Secret Spot , or The Sands .

Berry , located approximately two hours drive south of the CBD, is the perfect place for a day trip from Sydney. This historic town is a favorite with Sydneysiders as it features fantastic food options, quirky shops, and unique scenery available to be discovered on hikes just outside the town.  

Leaving Sydney early will get you into Berry just in time to enjoy a lovely brunch and a coffee at Milkwood Bakery on the main street. After the two-hour drive, it is the perfect stop for a quick pick-me-up before a morning of shopping or hiking commences. 

Next up, head ten minutes out of town to the starting point for the Drawing Room Rocks bushwalk. This uphill trek might be tough, but the stunning panoramic views that stretch all the way to the ocean at the top are well worth the climb.  

Finally, stop into one of Berry’s many foodie destinations for a late lunch or early dinner. And if you’re on the go, be sure to stock up on fresh cinnamon donuts from the famous Berry Donut Van. 

Getting to Berry: The best option to get to Berry from Sydney is to drive through the beautiful scenery of the Royal National Park all the way down the coast. Alternatively, there is a train station in Berry serviced from the CBD if you do not have a car. 

Where to stay in Berry : Berry has fantastic accommodation options to suit every budget. The Berry Village Boutique Motel has simple rooms that will definitely suit most tastes for an overnight stay. For something a little more luxe, the Berry Inn has gorgeous apartment-style rooms (some that come equipped with spa baths!).  

Explored by Emma Caldwell from Emma Jane Explores

10. Kangaroo Valley

With its charming countryside, dramatic sandstone escarpment, epic waterfalls, and quirky cafes, Kangaroo Valley makes for a perfect day trip from Sydney. It lies 150 kilometers south of Sydney, but it makes you feel like you are in a different world entirely. And there are so many  things to do in Kangaroo Valley   that once you discover it, you’ll keep coming back.

Kangaroo Valley is all about winding mountain roads, epic waterfalls, and sweeping viewpoints. The valley’s three waterfalls: Belmore, Fitzroy, and Carrington Falls are some of the biggest and prettiest in the region, so make sure to check out at least one of them.

For the best views, head to Cambewarra Mountain lookout. It offers one of the longest panoramas in Australia, and there is also a cozy restaurant at the top of the Mountain.

The road to the small village of Kangaroo Valley passes over the incredible Hamden Bridge – a grand Victorian structure with medieval-style towers at each end. Its appearance is all the more striking for the tranquil simplicity of its rural surroundings. You can hire kayaks at Kangaroo Valley Safari, right by the bridge, and spend a couple of hours paddling along Kangaroo River.

And, yes, of course, there are kangaroos in Kangaroo Valley. A good place to see them is Bendeela campground, that’s better known for its large population of wombats.

How to get to Kangaroo Valley: Unfortunately, there is no public transport in this part of the state and the only way to reach Kangaroo Valley from Sydney is by driving 159 km along the Princess Highway. On the plus side, this means that the valley doesn’t get crowded and retains its relaxed laid-back atmosphere.

Where to stay in Kangaroo Valley : Kangaroo Valley has an impressive variety of accommodation options from award-winning luxury villas to farm stays and rustic cottages. For a touch of luxury check out Crystal Creek Meadows ; for mid-range country, comfort consider The Laurels B&B ; and if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, Quaint & Rustic in The Village is very cute. 

Sydney day tour destination suggested by Margarita Steinhardt / The Wildlife Diaries  

11. Port Stephens: Nelson Bay & Stockton Sand Dunes

2:30 hours north of Sydney

Based on the fact that Port Stephans is twice as big as Sydney’s Port Jackson, it should not surprise that there are many things to do in Port Stephens . Thanks to this wide range, this Sydney day trip should offer something to suit everyone’s taste.

There are 26 beaches including Zenith Beach and the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, which happen to be the longest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere with a length of 32 km.

They are the ideal place to spend a few hours if you love sandboarding, want to go on a quad tour, or explore them with a 4WD. While they are not as high as the Lancelin Sand Dunes , they are definitely worth a visit.

Eat lunch or an early afternoon snack at one of the many restaurants and cafés in Nelson Bay and check out the lighthouse that offers a great view similar to that of the Gan Gan Lookout.

In the afternoon you can go hiking in Mt Tamaree National Park. The most popular hike is the Mount Tamaree Summit hike. Be sure to head to one of the viewpoints or beaches to watch the sunset, as Port Stephens is one of the best sunset spots in the state.

Other great things to do during a Sydney day trip to Port Jackson are animal encounters. If you want to stick to the land, you can go koala spotting in Tilligerry Habitat Reserve. 

But if you feel like going on a cruise, you have the chance to meet some of the 140 local bottlenose dolphins that call this port their home. During the whale migration between May and November, you can also go on whale watching cruises .

Book activities in Port Stephens :

Dolphin Cruise

Quad Bike Dune Tour

Sandboarding in the Dunes

4WD Birubi Beach Tour

And if you are a scuba diver, you will love during here as there are many nudibranchs. Additionally, you can dive off the coast of Broughton Island where you will find a Grey Nurse Shark colony.

Getting there: If you are not driving, you can catch a train to Newcastle and then take the bus to Port Stephens. Alternatively, you can book the Sydney Express Coach Service by Port Stephens Coaches.

Where to stay in Port Stephens : If you are traveling with a camper van or do not want to spend too much money, you should stay at the Halifax Holiday Park , which is close to the Nelson Bay lighthouse. Other great, but more expensive, accommodations are the Ramada Resort , the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary , and The Retreat .

12. Hunter Valley

3 hours north of Sydney

Roughly 3 hours north of Sydney lies the  Hunter Valley wine region .  Famous for its Semillon and Chardonnay, it’s one of the most iconic places to visit in Australia. Hunter Valley is home to over 150 cellar doors, each unique in their own way. From sloping hills to lush vineyards, sparse landscapes, and more – Hunter Valley certainly is a bucket list destination.

Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit Hunter Valley, but the region offers a memorable experience no matter the time of year.

Briar Ridge Vineyard offers a relaxed setting under the trees while Glandore Estate Wines is a great place to enjoy a chocolate and wine pairing.

Foodies will love Amanda’s on the Edge and Bistro Molines for their spectacular fine dining experiences while others may prefer to go hot air ballooning or explore the Hunter Valley Gardens.

There are many tour operators that offer day trips from Sydney to Hunter Valley. These include tastings at four wineries as well as a lunch at one of them.

This is a great option for those travelers who have little time in Sydney yet still want to escape the city and discover more of the New South Wales countryside.

Check out these group day trips to Hunter Valley :

  Cheese, wine, gin & chocolate tour

Craft beer & wine tour

Cheese Masterclass

Hunter Valley from Above: Helicopter Flight

Where to stay in Hunter Valley : There are many amazing accommodations in Hunter Valley. If you are looking for a less expensive place to stay, the Wine Country Tourist Park is ideal. Cedars Mount View , Deja Vu Estate , and Winmark Wines are more luxurious places to stay.

Recommended by Carryn Beard at Torn Tackies Travel Blog

Planning a trip?

Check out these useful websites and resources I use to plan my own adventures.

The Best Day Trips from Sydney

• Royal National Park
• Stanwell Tops
• Blue Mountains National Park
• Kangaroo Valley
• Port Stephens
• Hunter Valley

Roundup: Sydney Day Trips

I loved going on day trips while living in Sydney, and can only encourage you to leave the city for a day or two so you can see what else the area has to offer. There are so many amazing national parks, wine areas, and charming towns, that you are bound to find a destination that you will love. Venture out and find out which one you like the most.

When combined, these day trips from Sydney create an amazing road trip, so you should consider planning a road trip that allows you to visit all of these great destinations!

If you have limited time and want to see a little bit of everything, you book a private tour that visits the highlights of some of these southern day trips from Sydney destinations.

More about Australia

If you are planning day tours around Sydney, you might also be interested in these Australia travel guides :

National Parks in Australia Australia’s Hidden Gems

Will one of these day trips from Sydney be A part of your itinerary?

Let me know in the comments down below!

Planning A Day Trip from Sydney? Pin these Sydney Day Tours for later !

about Steph

I am the founder of A Nomad's Passport and a semi-nomadic photographer and writer. Originally from Germany, I have lived in several countries including Australia, Mexico, and Malta.

As an outdoor lover and culture enthusiast, I love writing about all forms of adventure travel ranging from outdoor activities like scuba diving and hiking to cultural experiences, alongside road trips and itineraries that combine these elements.

A Nomad's Passport is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

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14 best day trips from sydney you won’t want to miss (2024).

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you visiting NSW and looking for the best day trips from Sydney? Perfect! We are here to help!

Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a pillar of incredible beaches, nature, and wildlife. When the world thinks of Sydney, the world thinks of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. But that’s not all! 

There are many other landmarks to discover in the city and a plethora of day trips to take from Sydney.

National parks, beach towns, wine regions… there is a bit of everything!

So, are you ready? Let’s discover the most unforgettable day trips from Sydney!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. The Blue Mountains National Park

📍  Distance : 100 km / 50 min to 1:30 hour

✅  Perfect for : Outdoors, hikes & waterfalls

The Blue Mountains National Park is a World Heritage Site attracting over 3 million yearly visitors.

Situated only 50km west of Sydney CBD, the Blue Mountains are a very popular day trip from Sydney amongst both locals and international visitors.

Once you arrive, you’ll find an incredible national park spanning over 2,551,730 acres. The most popular attraction is the Three Sisters lookout.

These iconic rocks are known in the entire world and will truly give you an idea of how beautiful this area is.

There are many legends and stories about the 3 sisters and if you are interested in learning more about the aboriginal heritage in the Blue Mountains, that’s an excellent place to do so.

Also, from the lookout you can truly see why the Blue Mountains are called as such.

You see, the Blue Mountains are covered with gumtrees (eucalyptus). With the sun and quantity, they create a bit of a blue hollow. This is why they are called the Blue Mountains.

Try to get to this lookout as early as possible. It’s a popular spot and can be a bit packed at times.

Furthermore, if you would like to find native wildlife – such as Kangaroos and Wallabies – you should check out the Jenolan Caves. You’ll find plenty of wild Kangaroos there during the daytime.

There are also many hiking opportunities in the Blue Mountains including the Grand Canyon in Blackheath and Wentworth waterfalls.

HOW TO GET THERE:

• Train: It’s very easy to get to the Blue Mountains with public transport. You can use your Opal card and take the train from Central Station to Katoomba. It costs around $8 each way but it’s much cheaper if you travel off-peak (around $4). This is the cheapest way to get to the Blue Mountains however, you won’t be able to get around that easily once you are there. If you just want to visit Katoomba though, it’s perfect.
• Day tour: There are many organised tours going from Sydney to the Blue Mountains . It is more expensive however, it’s perfect for first-timers. Transport is included but you will also learn plenty thanks to the local guide. You will go to all the main sites in the Blue Mountains and truly make the best of your day. See prices here.
• Car: you can easily drive to the Blue Mountains. It takes 1,5 hours to get to Katoomba. It is longer than with the train and you might be stuck in traffic too but you will have more flexibility once you are in the national park.

2. The Royal National Park 

📍  Distance : 33 km / 45 minutes

✅  Perfect for: Outdoors, hikes & rock pools

One of Sydney’s most tremendous benefits is its proximity to nature. Sydneysiders and tourists love escaping to quiet yet stunning national parks, and the Royal National Park is one of the best options. 

The Royal National Park is Australia’s oldest and the world’s second-oldest national park.

It’s located 36km south of Sydney, and it makes for the ultimate day trip. Visitors find endless hiking trails, gorgeous white beaches, and even native wildlife if you’re lucky!

The most famous natural landmarks in the Royal National Park are the figure-eight pools. As much as you should definitely visit them, make sure to head there early so you can beat the crowds.

After that, you can do one of the coastal hikes. They are absolutely fantastic and the views are incredible.

HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get there is via car, but you can catch the train to Cronulla and the boat to Bundeena.

You can also opt for a private tour from Sydney ( prices here ) or a guided hike to the figure eight pools ( prices here ).

Moreover, the Royal National Park has many camping sites, but you must inquire with the Royal National Park before camping. If you are thinking about staying more than a day, it can be an option.

3. Palm Beach 

📍  Distance : 43 km / 50 min

✅  Perfect for: Beach

Palm Beach is one of the first day trips that tourists and backpackers enjoy once they land in Sydney. The iconic beach is the filming location for Home & Away and home to stunning views and hikes. 

Popular Palm Beach attractions include Sand Point, Barrenjoey, and Paradise Beach.

Many visitors love climbing towards the lighthouse, where you’ll find spellbinding views of Palm Beach and its idyllic blue waters and beautiful white sands.

The beaches are incredibly popular with surfers, so if you love surfing, be sure to check out Palm Beach and the surrounding areas. 

HOW TO GET THERE: You will find Palm Beach 41km north of Sydney CBD, and you can get there via bus.

If you choose public transport, the journey can take up to 2 hours depending on traffic and the number of people on the bus. Otherwise, driving will take under 1 hour.

Finally, you can opt for a day tour from Sydney to the Northern Beaches.

Click here to see the prices.

4. Manly  

📍  Distance : 17 km / 25 minutes

✅  Perfect for: Outdoors, hikes and BBQ

Manly is different from many day-trip options listed in this article because it’s actually within the city, but it still makes for an unforgettable outdoor day-trip.

Manly is famous for its hiking, beaches, and viewpoints.

If you feel like hiking, you can do the excellent hike from Spit to Manly.

The total distance is 10k, but it takes you through many stunning beaches and secluded bushland. 

Once you arrive in Manly, you can enjoy restaurants, Manly Beach, and the Manly scenic walkway. Moreover, Shelly Beach is an excellent place to relax during the summer days.

It’s a heaven for backpackers and families, and you’ll find many places to cook a BBQ and enjoy the sunshine.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can effortlessly get to Manly from Sydney harbour via boat in 20 minutes, and once you arrive, the incredible nature and views will blow you away!

You can also go on a 10k hike through Sydney Harbour National Park to Manly.

This will take about 5 hours. You can do it on your own or opt for a guided tour with a local.

The guide will show you some secret beaches and tell you many stories about the area. 

5. Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

📍  Distance : 38 km / 30 min

✅  Perfect for: History and beaches.

The Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park is a phenomenal day trip from Sydney. You will find a historic national park that’s full of deep-rooted aboriginal history. Perfect for history buffs! 

It’s also one of the best places to enjoy the many incredible coastal viewpoints around Sydney’s Northern Beaches. 

A popular hike is the Aboriginal Heritage Walk , where you’ll find rock art and engravings from the aboriginal people. 

Furthermore, the Hawkesbury River is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the stunning Sydney sunshine. 

Interesting fact: it is Australia’s second-oldest national back behind the Royal National Park. If you’re full of energy, you can complete many hikes through the national park before ending up at the iconic Palm Beach.

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s pretty easy to get to the national park from Sydney CBD. Here are your options:

• By car: it’s a short 30 minutes drive on the Pacific Highway to get to the national park.
• By public transport: you can take the train from Central station. You’ll need to change in Turramurra and it will take about 1h15 altogether. This is not the most practical way so avoid it if you can but the option is there.
• Tour: You can opt for a day tour that includes the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, Northern beaches and Home & Away locations. Click here to see the prices.

6. Sailing Adventure

So far you’ve seen very famous spots but now is time to mention an unusual day trip from Sydney.

Sydney is known for its harbour and proximity with the sea. There are many cruise ships arriving every day and yet, a lot of people almost forget that you can go on a day cruise too!

If you want to go on a bit of an adventure without even having to drive, you can go on a sailing trip around Sydney

The sailing trip lasts a couple of hours which is enough to see all the main spots.

You will get to see the iconic landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House but also Fort Denison.

The ship is a replica of an historic one which makes it even more unique. If you like taking photos, you will be in for a treat with this one!

Click here to see the latest prices.

7. Taronga Zoo

Although it is located in the city, Taronga Zoo is a place where you can easily spend a whole day so it deserves to be on this list.

If you are looking for a great Sydney day out with kids, look no further!

Taronga Zoo is home to African animals as much as unique native-Australian species including the Tree Kangaroo.

HOW TO GET THERE: Getting to Taronga Zoo is just as fun as visiting the site itself. Why? Because you need to take the ferry from Circular Quay and it’s a beautiful ride.

It’s only 12 minutes but you will get to see so much!

You can use your Opal card for the ferry and buy your ticket for the zoo separately. See prices.

Otherwise, you can take a combo ticket with cruise + Zoo entrance. See prices here.

8. Wollongong

📍  Distance : 85 km / 1h15

✅  Perfect for : Beach, activities and hikes.

Do you love escaping the crowds and tourists? The truth is that many national parks surrounding Sydney will attract large numbers of visitors.

Nonetheless, Wollongong is a hidden gem of a little town just 85km south of Sydney. 

There are various top-class attractions in Wollongong, including the Sea Cliff Bridge.

You’ll find this Oceanside cantilever bridge next to Wollongong, and the coastal views are simply breathtaking from the bridge.

You will pass by the Sea Cliff Bridge when you drive down the Grand Pacific Drive, one of Australia’s most incredible road trips. 

If that’s not enough, Wollongong is home to various tremendous hiking trails and viewpoints.

The Sublime Point Walking Track is a highlight of Wollongong, offering excellent views of nearby areas.

You’ll witness 180-degree coastal views, 17 beaches, and rainforests from the Sublime Point Viewpoint.

If you love adrenaline rushes, you will be happy to know that Wollongong is also one of the best places in Australia for skydiving . See prices here.

HOW TO GET THERE: Driving is the best way to get to Wollongong and also the most recommended as it is a very scenic drive!

9. Kiama 

📍  Distance : 120 km / 1h45 min

✅  Perfect for : Blowholes

If you’re looking for a relaxed town away from the big city, you should head two hours north towards Kiama.

Once you arrive, you can walk across the coastal walk and eat ice cream during the summer sunshine. 

Tourists love seeing the beautiful Cathedral Rocks, where you’ll find some of the best-rugged scenery in New South Wales .

Moreover, Kiama is a fantastic whale-watching area during the spring months as the whales head south past Australia’s east coast. 

The town is ideal for families and people of all ages and offers the perfect day-trip getaway from the millions of people in Sydney.

Plus, if you enjoy surfing, you should check out Surf Beach and its excellent waves. 

The most famous landmark is Kiama Blowhole. It’s a very unusual thing to see!

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive down to Kiama from Sydney. It will take you about 2 hours. 

If you are a group between 3 and 7, you may want to opt for a private guided tour. It is customisable and includes the blowholes as well as some hidden gems.

10. Southern Highlands

📍  Distance : 133 km / 1:30 hour

✅  Perfect for: Wine tasting

The Southern Highlands are the perfect day out from Sydney. It will make you feel like you travelled to England for a second!

You can discover the quaint towns of Bowral and Berrima. There are many antique shops, local cafes and restaurants where you can grab delicious food.

Finally, if you are visiting in September or October, make sure to go to the Tulip Time Festival. It’s in Bowral and you will get to see thousands of tulips. It’s so pretty!

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s an easy 90 minute drive from the CBD to the Southern Highlands. If you have your own vehicle, you can easily explore on your own.

Alternatively, you can opt for an organised tour which includes the south coast and the Southern Highlands.

11. Morton National Park

📍  Distance : 137 km / 1:45 hour

✅  Perfect for : Wine tasting

Morton National Park is part of the Southern Highlands. It’s one of the most underrated national parks in Australia. 

Whereas everyone heard of the Blue Mountains, most people don’t know anything about Morton National Park.

This is not going to happen to you! 

Morton National Park is the ideal day trip from Sydney if you love nature, outdoor activities and stay away from the crowds. 

The most popular natural landmark in the area is the Fitzroy Falls. These plunge waterfalls are absolutely stunning! It’s only a short walk to get there but you can also go on one of the local hikes if you want to make it longer.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive from Sydney CBD to Fitzroy Falls. If you want to make a bit of a road trip out of your day, you can drive along the coast down to Kiama and then head to the falls. It will be much longer but it’s a very beautiful drive.

You can also opt for a day tour from Sydney that includes both the Royal National Park and Morton National Park.

12. The Hunter Valley

📍  Distance : 196 km / 2h30 hours

The wine industry regards Australia as one of its finest gems. There are many great wine regions down under, including the Barossa Valley, Margaret River, and the Eden Valley. With that said, the Hunter Valley is one of the most significant wine regions in the southern hemisphere. 

The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest and most famous winery, and it’s only a 2-hour 30-minute drive from Sydney CBD. The 2019 bushfire crisis damaged much of the region’s wine production, but the area is bouncing back and producing world-class Shiraz, Semillon, Chardonnay, and many more!

The Hunter Valley has over 150 wineries, thousands of wine tours, and some tasty cheeses, olives, and olive oil on offer. The region dates back to the 18th century when European settlers started producing wine.

It’s a great place to visit on a day trip from Sydney as you can go wine tasting and eat a delicious and authentic lunch. There is nothing better than local produce and the Hunter Valley sets the bar high when it comes to that.

HOW TO GET THERE: If you have a vehicle, you can drive to the Hunter Valley. As previously mentioned, it’s about 2h30 drive so you need to be ready to drive about 5 hours in a day.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Sydney. This is well worth it as it includes wine tasting, lunch and transportation. That way you just relax and enjoy!

13. Jervis Bay 

📍  Distance : 196 km / 2h40 hours

✅  Perfect for: Beach, dolphin & whale watching

Located almost 3-hour south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is famous for being home to Hyams Beach, the whitest beach in the world according to the Guinness Record Book.

Not only does the beach have the most idyllic scenery imaginable, but you can also see native wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch glimpses of dolphins and whales in the sea. 

If you are visiting in winter, you should opt for a dolphin or whale-watching cruise as it’s one of the best places in Australia to see the migrations.

Jervis Bay is a bird-watching paradise, with over 2,000 species of birds flying around the area; you better make sure you have your binoculars!

Also, the area has so much aboriginal heritage. The early aboriginal people had robust ties with the Jervis Bay area, so you’ll find numerous historical sites in the region. 

The main town in Jervis Bay is Huskisson. You will actually find two national parks nearby: Booderee and Jervis Bay National Park.

That having been said, if you are only visiting for a day, here is what you should do:

• White sands walk (it’s only a couple of hours and you will get to see Vincentia, Blenheim Beach, Greenfields Beach and Chinamans beach)
• Hyams Beach. You can easily park there and relax on the beach. Grab a fish and chips at Hyams Beach Cafe
• Dolphin or whale watching cruise in the afternoon. See prices here.

HOW TO GET THERE: Jervis Bay is a 3-hour drive south of Sydney and easily one of the best places to visit in New South Wales.

It’s entirely possible to get a day tour from Sydney, but if you drive via rented car – you’re free to hike, swim, and enjoy the national parks on your terms!

If you don’t want to drive, you can also book a day tour from Sydney. This is a great way to make the best of your day as the local guides know exactly how to save time and show you as much as they can!

Click here to see the prices.  

14. Canberra

📍  Distance : 286 km / 3 hours

✅  Perfect for: Modern Australian History & Politics

When you ask the question, “ What is Australia’s capital city ?” many people will automatically assume it’s Sydney or Melbourne. The capital of Australia is Canberra, and better still, it’s accessible on a day trip from Sydney. It is a 3-hour drive from Sydney.

Australia made Canberra the capital city in 1908 because of a compromise between Australia’s two megacities Sydney and Melbourne. 

There are similarities between Washington D.C and Canberra, with both cities being in-land, somewhat isolated, and unusual capital city choices. 

The city’s principal tourist attraction is the Australian War Memorial, which details Australia’s vast military history in the Vietnam War and both world wars. 

Another top-rated attraction is the National Gallery of Australia because it’s home to a fascinating international art collection.

You can also discover both the new and old parliament. You can either see them from the outside or visit inside.

If you want to learn more about the history of Australia, you should visit the National Museum of Australia. It’s entirely free and one of the best museums in the country. You will learn plenty of the traditional owners, the British colonisation and modern times.

Finally, if you have a bit of time left, drive up the Black Mountain. The views over Canberra are stunning from there.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive from Sydney to Canberra. It will take you about 3 hours.

Make sure to leave early so you get enough time in Canberra and don’t get stuck in Sydney’s traffic.

Another alternative is to go on an organised day trip. It is a bit pricey but well worth it for a day trip.

This private tour includes a local guide, transport and snacks. It will be personalised to your wishes and needs so you can be 100% sure to see exactly what you want to see.

Final Thoughts 

Sydney is a big city, and it’s home to so many incredible things to do. You can enjoy CBD shopping, the hipster vibes of Newtown, or hike along the world-famous Bondi to Coogee walk. 

However, the real benefit of visiting Sydney is the incredible and undisturbed nature surrounding the city. If you’re visiting Sydney, you must check out Jervis Bay, the Blue Mountains, and Palm Beach. 

Once you see the sheer natural beauty surrounding Sydney, there’s a good chance that you’ll want to live there!

You may also be interested in:

• Best Day Trips from Melbourne
• 23 Best Days trips from Adelaide : for both locals & first time visitors
• 12 Best Day Trips from Hobart that you must take during your stay in Tasmania
• The 12 Best Day Trips from Cairns, Queensland: beautiful places to visit & excursions

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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20 of the best day trips from Sydney

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Sydney is an adventure playground. There are so many  things to do in Sydney , I could spend weeks there! Sometimes, a change of scenery is needed though, and there are so many beautiful areas outside of Sydney to explore. In this blog post we’re going to look at the best  day trips from Sydney , so that you can explore some of the areas outside of this wonderful Australian city.

EXPLORE SYDNEY ON MY BLOG HERE

Personally,  Sydney  is one of my favourite cities in the world. It has an amazing  food and coffee scene  (if you know about Australian coffee, you know what I mean), as well as chilled vibes by day and hustle and bustle by night. The beaches in and around Sydney are stunning; of course there’s the famous Bondi beach, but there are many more areas of beautiful coastline to discover too.

• Check out my complete guide to Sydney here.
• The best things to do in Australia

But there is so much more to Sydney than the city centre itself. One of my favourite areas just outside Sydney is  Manly , a beach side suburb. It’s perfect for a day trip to get out of Sydney city centre, but personally, I’d stay longer! Other amazing day trips include wine tasting in  Hunter Valley , visiting the kangaroos in  Morisset , marvelling at the views in the famous  Blue Mountains .

If you’re looking for things to do outside of Sydney for a day or two, then look no further…

• Farm work in Australia: How to find work, top tips and advice
• A complete guide to Australia
• A complete guide to Sydney
• A complete guide to solo travel in Australia
• A guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• Planning your transport in Australia

On a backpacker budget? Here’s my complete  guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia.

SEE ALL MY BACKPACKING ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

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The best day trips from Sydney, Australia…

1. the blue mountains national park.

The Blue Mountains National Park is a valley full of ancient rock formations, waterfalls, rainforest, across a vast 11,400km². Wentworth Falls, Leura, Katoomba and of course the Three Sisters are must sees on your trip! Get your trainers out for this one, as there’s a lot of walking involved!  Check out my beginner’s guide to hiking here.

As one of the most popular day trips from Sydney, the Blue Mountains can be visited as part of a  group tour , if you have the budget and want an expert guide, or you can go yourself either by train or car, if you prefer a money-saving, more independent version!  Check out my self-guided trip to the Blue Mountains with everything you need to know here.

For a luxury day in the Blue Mountains, try ‘Sparadise’ – a Japanese outdoor spa with panoramic views.  Get more information on the website here.

To see how I did my self-guided Blue Mountains trip,  check out this post.

For my take on a group tour to the Blue Mountains,  check out this post.

My good friend Sammy owns  RatPack Travel  (a discounted booking platform). The team at RatPack are ready to help you plan and book all your trips and transport for your adventure down under, including a group tour to the  Blue Mountains with Coast Warriors .  Check out the tour here.  Don’t forget you can use my code  MOLLIE10  for  10% off any trip or transport  booking you make.

2. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

The second oldest national park lies around 45 minutes outside the city centre. Enjoy a walk around the lush greenery and see Lion Island and Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Take a picnic to Bobbin Head for lunch, and head to Upper Gledhill Falls on McCarrs Creek for an afternoon swim. If you like more of an active adventure, there are plenty of cycling and bushwalking trails to take on!

If you’re looking to save some money on accommodation, check out this  guide to freedom camping in Australia.

SEE ALL MY ACTIVE ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

This quaint seaside town is about two hours north of Sydney. Take a walk along the coast with an ice-cream before spending some time on an active adventure such as kayaking or rock climbing. Don’t forget to visit the Kiama blowhole at the top of the cliffs, and play in the natural, salty, water fountain!

If you don’t know where to stay in Sydney, check out my  Sydney hostel guide here.

4. Glenworth Valley

Glenworth Valley is a must-do day trip from Sydney if you love an active holiday! Just an hour from Sydney’s CBD, experience the wilderness in the Central Coast’s hinterland region and try horse-riding, quad-biking, kayaking, abseiling and more. If you have time, camp overnight; there’s enough to do here to have a mini-holiday in itself!  For more information on Glenworth outdoor adventures, check out the website here.

If you want a calming, retreat-like day trip but don’t want to splash the cash on an actual retreat,  check out my DIY retreat in the hinterland here.

5. Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is one of my favourite Sydney day trips to date. If you drive about 2 hours out of Sydney, you reach one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. Here, not only can you do wine tasting, but you can also experience beer, chocolate and cheese tasting, as well as seeing koalas and kangaroos.

Check out my guide to a day trip to the Hunter Valley in this blog post.

If you want to spend a day exploring one of the many wonderful Sydney suburbs, check out my  guide to Surry Hills here.

6. Royal National Park

The Royal National Park is one of Sydney’s most popular day trips, but it’s easy to see why. Locally known as ‘Nasho’ or just ‘the Royal’, the world’s second-oldest national park is about one hour south of Sydney, and is home to cycling paths, bushwalking trails, and even the opportunity to go whale-watching. When you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to hike up to the Figure Eight pools for a spectacular view. Be careful though: it’s a steep, rocky, 6km hike, and you need to be wary of the tide before you visit (for your own safety).  Get the tide info here.

Wanting coffee or brunch before you head out on your day trip from Sydney?  Here’s my coffee and brunch guide to Sydney.

7. Palm Beach

Palm Beach covers 2.3km of the Northern Beaches coastline, and is the perfect place for sun, sand and surf! It’s only an hour out of Sydney, and is also a filming location for Home and Away, so you never know who you might see while you’re here!

For more Sydney inspiration, check out the  25 best things to do in Sydney here!

8. Wollongong

Said to be one of NSW’s best kept secrets, Wollongong is about 90 minutes south of Sydney and offers something for everyone, from chilling on the beautiful beach to skydiving with a soft, beach landing! I’d love to try hang gliding from Stanwell Park!

Wanting to add some adventure to your Australian adventure?  Here’s my guide to skydiving in Australia!

Don’t forget, you can get 10% off and trips and tours with  RatPack Travel  with my discount code  MOLLIE10 .  Click here to WhatsApp them  now and ask about the  Sydney-Wollongong skydive trip !

9. Mermaid Pools, Tahmoor Gorge

The Mermaid Pools at Tahmoor Gorge on the Bargo River are a really popular day trip outside of Sydney. About 75 minutes south west of the city centre, you canget up close and personal with nature as you hike, wild swim and chase waterfalls. While it’s not recommended to swim in the Mermaid Pools themselves (getting in and out of the pools is extremely dangerous), you can swim in several other water holes in the area. Don’t forget to venture out past the Mermaid Pools to explore the rest of the Tahmoor Gorge area!

If you’re backpacking Australia solo and feeling a little apprehensive, here’s my guide to  solo travel in Australia!

Honestly, I think Manly might be one of my favourite places in the whole world. If you’re able to spend more than a day here, do it.  I spent a week here  and then came back for more later in my trip! There’s something about the laid back lifestyle that collides with the city hustle and bustle (Sydney’s CBD is a 20-minute ferry away) that makes for a magical day. If you don’t want to get the ferry or drive all the way there, you could do the  Spit to Manly walk , followed by some well-deserved coffee and beach time.

Check out my complete guide to Manly here.

Looking for an active day out in the Sydney area? Here are  6 walks to go on in Sydney!

11. Kangaroo Valley, Southern Highlands

It’s worth spending some time exploring all of the Southern Highlands if you can… it’s a beautiful, green area. The highlight for me for a day trip from Sydney would be Kangaroo Valley. Two hours south of Sydney you can see kangaroos, kayak down the river and even take on a  ‘foodie trail’ with a cooking class!

Looking for the ultimate backpacker transport? Here’s what to expect from  travelling in Australia with Greyhound.

12. Hawkesbury River

Less than an hour from Sydney, you wouldn’t know this rural area of tranquility is so close to Australia’s largest city. Take a river cruise down the Hawkesbury, pick your own fruit from one of the many farms in the area, or do a kayak river tour, stopping for a picnic lunch on the river bank.

On a backpacker budget? Here are  25 top tips for saving money and travelling on a budget!

SEE ALL MY BUDGET ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

13. Stockton sand dunes

If you want to drive along the beach in a 4×4, this is the Sydney day trip for you! Most people think of  Fraser Island  when it comes to driving on the beach, but that’s not the only place you can do it. Stockton sand dunes are about 2 hours from Sydney. You’ll need a permit and slightly deflated tyres to drive on the sand dunes, but this is inexpensive. Once you’re sorted, drive along the beach, venture into the sand dunes, and take in the views that go for miles and miles.

Check out my experience of visiting Stockton sand dunes here.

Wanting to drive yourself around Australia? Here’s a complete  guide to planning your travel and transport in Australia!

14. Wombeyan Caves

If you want a taste of the underworld, take on the underground passages, streams and caverns of the limestone Wombeyan Caves. Wollondilly, Junction, Kooringa, and Mulwaree caves are best seen on a guided tour, but the Figtree Cave is one of the best self-guided cave experiences. In the local area there are also bush walks and waterfalls.

Some say there’s too much to do here for it to be just a one-day trip from Sydney, so you might want to stay overnight and really explore the area in detail. If you camp in the area, you might find an inquisitive kangaroo joins you for breakfast!

Don’t know much about hiring a camper van in Australia? I’ve answered all your questions in  this blog post!

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A CAMPER WITH RATPACK TRAVEL NOW (+61 450381801)

15. Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie is another one of NSW’s secrets that you can discover on a day trip from Sydney. Small lively towns meet beautiful beaches, caves and rock pools, as you share your lunch with the pelicans at the side of the lake. The nearby Watagan Mountains are home to an array of walking trails that you can take on if you prefer to get active. The relaxed attitude here will make you never want to leave!

For a nature filled day out in Sydney itself, check out this  Coogee to Bondi coastal walk!

16. Morisset

One of my first Aussie road trips, seeing the wild kangaroos in Morisset is a must-do day trip from Sydney. Driving an hour and a half was well worth it for the kanga-selfies we got with the very friendly roos!

Check out my day trip to see the kangaroos here.

Short on time? Here’s a  3-day itinerary for Sydney.

SEE ALL MY ROAD TRIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

17. Port Stephens

2.5 hours north of Sydney lies Port Stephens, an area made up of 26 beautiful beaches and sparkling blue water. Beaches to choose from include  Shoal Bay  and Nelson Bay. Kick back and relax on the sand and look out for the resident dolphins and whales!

For the ultimate East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

18. Tomaree Head

The Tomaree Head summit walk is about 2 hours in total, so perfect for a  beginner hiker ! When you get to the top, enjoy the views of Port Stephens before you come back down for a swim. If you fancy it in the afternoon, head into the nearby city of Newcastle for some city adrenaline and a few cocktails.

Check out my experience of hiking Tomaree Head in this post.

For an alternative East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

19. Shoalhaven

This area just south of Sydney is certainly worth exploring on a day trip if you have time. With wineries and waterfalls to visit, whales and dolphins to watch, and beaches and hinterland to enjoy, this area of NSW is a great holiday destination. It’s known for its fun surf culture, so be sure to catch a wave while you’re there!

Short on time? Here’s a  4-day itinerary for Sydney.

20. Jervis Bay

Technically part of Shoalhaven, but worth its own special mention. With white sands that rival Australia’s very best beaches in the  Whitsundays , Jervis Bay is a day trip from Sydney that you don’t want to miss. Hyams beach is renowned for having ‘the whitest sand in the world’, winning the Guinness World Record in 2006. the 3-hour drive south of Sydney might be a long one, but the Grand Pacific Drive is worth it for the views along the way and the warm, clear water and soft, white sand when you get to Hyams beach.

Check out my guide for your road trip to Jervis Bay here.

For everything you need to know about your trip to Sydney, including where to stay, things to do, and all my top tips, check out my  complete guide to Sydney here!

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been on any day trips from Sydney?

Where did you go? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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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.

Looking for more things to do in Sydney with kids?

• School holiday activities in Sydney
• Water parks in Sydney for kids
• Best trampoline park discounts in Sydney
• Darling Harbour review
• Wildlife Sydney Zoo review
• Sealife Sydney Aquarium review
• Sydney rainy day activities for kids
• Things to do with teenagers in Sydney
• Best camping options in Sydney with kids
• Strawberry picking with kids in Sydney
• Dog friendly beaches and swimming holes in Sydney
• Sydney to Brisbane road trip with kids
• Sydney to Byron road trip with kids

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• Pancakes on the Rocks review
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Celebrating with kids in Sydney?

• Birthday party venues in Sydney for kids
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• The best Christmas lights in Sydney
• Christmas markets in Sydney
• Best places to eat on Australia Day with kids
• Celebrating Australia Day in Sydney

More great articles in New South Wales

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

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The Best Day Trips From Sydney

Today we have listed the best day trips from Sydney that can be reached in less than 2.5 hours. There is an abundance of beautiful places to visit right on the city’s doorstep, so how do you decide which ones to visit? Well, that’s where we come in, as locals we have been visiting some of these places since childhood. Read on for the towns we think are perfect for a day out of the city.

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Surrounding the city of Sydney, we have beautiful national parks, picturesque country towns, and hundreds of pristine beaches. So it’s time to leave Sydney Harbour behind and jump in the car.

While it was tempting to include some great places an hour further down the road, we feel driving any longer than two and a half hours each way requires an overnight stop or a day tour where someone else is doing the driving. If you are happy to drive 3 hours each way, then check out our full list of places to visit from Sydney in our Getaways Section where we share lots more ideas for weekend trips from the harbour city.

Many of these day trips are best visited by car but when there are public transport options or guided tours available we will point them out in case you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive in Australia .

Let’s start with the obvious and work our way through this list of Sydney day trips to discover some hidden gems.

Whether you are a local looking for a day out or a visitor on a mission to see more than the city sights, I am sure one of these ideas will appeal.

In this article we focus on day trips, what’s the difference you ask? Well, we are going with day trips being trips you can do by car or public transport. Day tours we define as run by tour operators.

We have written about the best day tours from Sydney here and here . We have added a couple of day tours below where they are a good fit and to give you a choice if public transport is not straightforward.

The Blue Mountains

If you have spent any time on this site, you probably already know we are huge fans of the Blue Mountains . Only 90 minutes west of the city the area is full of lovely small towns and lookouts over some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes. If you have never been, make The Blue Mountains National Park one of the first day trips you take. Why visit: Its World Heritage status puts it on the top of many visitors lists, but it’s also a must-do for hikers and photographers who will be spoilt for choice with the lookouts, waterfalls and Blue Mountains National Park walking tracks .

Key spots to see:

• Three Sisters – The
• Wentworth Falls – home of the Blue Mountains National Parks’ most popular waterfall
• Scenic World – ride the cable car, skyway and Scenic Railway.
• Leura Village – cute shops and beautiful gardens
• Katoomba Town Centre with its art galleries and adventure stores
• Govert’s Leap and Blackheath
• Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens
• Breenhold Gardens – stunning in autumn and spring
• The art deco gem – the Hydro Majestic Hotel complex

Check out our guide of the top 50 things to do art do in the Blue Mountains for more ideas.

How to get there

• Train from Central to any of the Blue Mountain towns, Katoomba or Leura is the easiest. Public buses service the mountains’ main villages.
• Take the train and then the Blue Mountains HOHO bus .
• Drive from Sydney along the M4 and the Great Western Highway. We have written some easy to follow itineraries here.
• Take one of the excellent Blue Mountains Day tours we have written about.

Our Blue Mountains by train itinerary might be helpful.

The Hunter Valley wine region

The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine-producing region and the perfect spot for food lovers to visit for a day out of Sydney. The towns of Pokolbin, Rothbury, and Broke all offer pretty vineyards and cellar doors and excellent restaurants.

Why visit: The Hunter is a wine region that produces a lot of Australia’s high-quality Shiraz and Semillon, perfect for trying at one of the many cellar door wine tastings. Add to this, lots of fantastic dining choices and interesting landscapes, and you have the makings of a great day out.

• Hunter Valley Gardens – if you are a garden lover then Hunter Valley Gardens is a must.
• Binorie Dairy – because it has THE best Cheese
• Drive – Take the M1 Pacific Motorway from Sydney to Cessnock, then follow signs to the Visitors Centre, which should be your first stop!
• Public transport to the vineyards is not a good idea, there are no direct services from Sydney and will take more time than it’s worth for a day trip
• Join a tour from Sydney let someone else drive.

Read more: Check out our review of iHop Hunter Valley .

If you have more than a few days’ to spare you could easily string these next few day tours together for a fantastic weekend out of Sydney. To make the easier for you, we have listed them in order from north to south along the coast and then heading back to Sydney via the Southern Highlands.

The Royal National Park

The Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world and right on Sydney’s doorstep at less than an hour’s drive from the centre of town. The park has plenty to offer day-trippers with rock engraving sites, waterfalls, and iconic hiking tracks like the Coast Walk. Being less well known than the Blue Mountains is another bonus when it comes to crowds and parking.

Why visit: Great hiking trails and fantastic coastal scenery make this a perfect stop for outdoor types.

• Wattamolla Beach and waterfall
• Bundeena Rock art
• Figure 8 Pools and Wedding Cake Rock
• Audley rowboats

How to get there:

• Drive south from the city along the Princes Highway to Loftus and the park entry signs.
• Take the train to Cronulla and then the ferry to Bundeena
• Take the train to Loftus and the tram from the Tram Museum into the park.
• Walk into the park from Otford or Heathcote stations. Several walking trails begin from these points.

If you want to see the Instagram famous Figure 8 Pools , we really do recommend you join a tour. This spot can be quite dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. There is only one operator licensed for tours , and they do a fantastic job.

Related: Check out our easy bush walks for families for more ideas

Stanwell Tops and Sea Cliff Bridge

Just the other side of the Royal National Park, Stanwell Point is a popular hang gliding spot and offers fantastic views down the coast to Wollongong . It’s an easy drive through the Royal National Park and a lovely day away from the city.

Why visit: Along with the stunning views, Stanwell Tops has a place in Australian aviation history was the place that Lawrence Hargrave, who invented the box kite, flew his creation. There is a memorial commemorating his achievements.

• Bald Hill lookout to watch the hang gliders
• Symbio Wildlife Park
• Seacliff Bridge
• Austinmer Hotel beer garden
• Thirroul Village – DH Lawrence spent a few months here in 1922 writing the novel Kangaroo.

• Drive through the national park for the scenic route
• Drive via the M1/A1 for a quicker, more direct journey – turn off at Sublime Point and head back north for Stanwell Tops.
• One hour train to Otford and 30 minutes walk to Stanwell Tops. There are also buses to Symbio Wildlife Park. You can also continue by train to Thirroul.

If you prefer, someone else worries about the logistics we like this tour that includes Symbio Wildlife Park, Sea Cliff Bridge, and a local winery.

Read more: Check out our guide to exploring the Grand Pacific Tourist Drive .

Wollongong and Nan Tien Temple

Wollongong is New South Wales third biggest city and home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist Temple. Once referred to as “steel city” because of the large steelworks in the region was its best-known feature. In recent years locals have discovered it has much to offer.

Why visit: Beaches, street art, lunch by the ocean.

• Wollongong Botanic Gardens – lovely indigenous plant collection
• North Wollongong Beach
• Wollongong Harbour and twin lighthouses
• Wollongong street art
• The Nan Tien Temple complex
• Popular skydiving spot

• Drive down the Southern Freeway from Sydney, about 90 minutes
• Take the train from Central – it’s a scenic 1.5 hour trip along the coast for much of the way. You can reach the temple via bus from Unanderra Station.

Kiama and Berry

Less than 40km down the road from Wollongong finds you firmly in dairy country with lush green hills running down to the ocean. Cattle farming, which began here in 1803, is still a vital industry in these parts. These two south coast towns provide the perfect contrast for a day trip. Kiama is a typical seaside village, nearby Jamberoo is also worth a stop for its amusement park , particularly if you are travelling with kids. Berry a pretty village full of historic buildings, cafes and gift and homeware shops.

Why visit: Rolling green hills and classic golden sand beaches are reason enough, but the area also boasts vineyards, great seafood and is just so darn pretty. We have shared 15 reasons to visit Kiama if you need more convincing.

• Cathedral Rocks – a photographers’ delight
• The famous Kiama Blowhole
• Minnamurra Rainforest
• Gerroa and Seven Mile Beach lookout
• Gerringong Beach
• Berry main street shops

• An easy 2 hr drive along the M1 and onto the Princes Highway to Kiama.
• Train from Central to Kiama will allow you to see many of the sights on the list, but you will need a car to reach Gerringong, Gerroa and Berry.

Southern Highlands, Berrima and Bowral

Bowral is the largest town in the Southern Highlands region of NSW. Berrima is a small village just 10km to the southwest. Together, they provide a lovely glimpse of an area that was a popular summer retreat for the upper classes in the 1930s and 1940s.

Why visit: Cute country villages and several waterfalls make this a lovely day trip. It is particularly pretty in spring when Sydneysiders flock down for the Tulip Festival held from late September and to early October.

Many people mistakenly think Australian cricket great Don Bradman was born in Bowral; however, Cootamundra holds that honour. Bradman did however live here as a child, and this is where he learned to play cricket. Drop into the visitor’s centre, and they can fill you in.

• Don Bradman Oval and the International Cricket Hall of Fame at Bowral
• Bowral Bookshops
• Fitzroy Falls, Belmore Falls and Carrington Falls – visit one or all
• Berrima Village with its 15 heritage buildings
• The Surveyor General Inn at Berrima – the oldest continuously licensed inn in Australia.
• Southern Highlands vineyards – Centennial Vineyards is particularly picturesque

• 2 hrs north of Sydney by car along the M31.
• Buses and trains run from Sydney to Bowral, but beyond Bowral township, this area is best toured by car.
• Want a tour? This Walking with the Wombats tour includes wildlife and the Southern Highlands waterfalls in one day. Alternatively, food lovers will enjoy this Taste of the Highlands experience.

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

It’s hard to beat this National Park only 40km north of the CBD for a day immersed in nature. In less than 50 minutes you can be exploring this bushland and its water views.

Why visit? So many reasons! Aboriginal heritage, wildflowers, beaches, stunning lookouts, and fantastic hiking tracks.

• Aboriginal Walk aka the Resolute Loop Trail
• America Bay Track
• West Head Lookout
• Red Hands Cave
• Bobbin Head picnic grounds
• 50 minutes north of Sydney by car along the Pacific Highway
• The only way in via public transport is via Palm Beach ferry to Mackerel.

Fancy someone else does the hard work? There are a couple of tours to this area one of our favourites is the Ku-ring-gai National Park Aboriginal Explorer tour . We highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to get a bit off the beaten track and learn more about Aboriginal Australians.

Palm Beach and Pittwater

Palm Beach is the setting of Australia’s longest-running soap opera Home and Away. It is also a spot wealthy Sydneysiders head for summer breaks. It’s pretty easy to see why from the image below. The Pacific Ocean on one side and the pristine Pittwater Basin on the other make Palm Beach hard to resist.

Sitting on the tip of the Barrenjoey Headland and technically still part of Sydney, Palm Beach is the northernmost suburb of the city.

• Barrenjoey Lighthouse and the walking track
• Eat fish and chips on the beach
• Splurge on lunch at the Boathouse
• Visit the Bible Garden – for the views – no need to be a bible reader 😉
• Take one of the local Palm Beach ferry rides
• Drive from Sydney along the M1 and then Barrenjoey Road. Traffic can be a challenge and parking is $20 per car.
• The bus from Wynyard Station is an easy and leisurely way to arrive.
• You can also take a special Home and Away focused tour which may appeal to fans!

Related: Our guide to visiting and walking in Palm Beach

Hawkesbury River and Dangar Island

The Hawkesbury River region is extensive, but today we are focused on the riverside town of Brooklyn . The big drawcards to the area are its easy access to the waterway and the very lovely Dangar Island.

Why visit: Four national parks surround the Hawkesbury River making it a hot stop for fishing and boating.

• Brooklyn – rent your own boat for the day
• The Riverboat Postman
• Dangar Island Ferry and Island walk
• Berowra Waters
• One hour drive up the M1 Freeway from Sydney.
• 75 minutes on the train from Central and then a ferry ride to Dangar Island.

Related: Get an insider’s view of Dangar Island with the article from island local Joanne.

Woy Woy and the Central Coast

Just 90 minutes drive from Sydney the suburbs of the lower Central Coast are almost an extension of the Sydney suburbs. We like this area so much we have purchased a property here to move to one day.

Why visit? Fresh seafood, quiet bushwalks, and uncrowded beaches make this a perfect day out of Sydney.

• Ettalong Beach
• Pearl Beach
• Australian Reptile Park
• Brisbane Water National Park has some great walks
• Somersby Falls
• Distillery Botanica and Six Strings Brewing
• Bouddi National Park
• A 70-minute drive up the M1 from Sydney to the Reptile Park. Then continue on 10 mins or so to the Woy Woy or Gosford exits for other attractions.
• You can take the train to Woy Woy and use local transport to Ettalong Beach, Umina Beach or Pearl Beach.

Related: Our weekend in Ettalgong might give you more ideas .

The second-largest city in New South Wales has a lot to offer visitors but often gets overlooked due to its history as a coal-mining town but times have changed, and so has Newcastle.

Why visit: Newcastle’s gem is its beaches , but it also has a thriving art scene and a free wildlife park!

• Explore Hunter Street cafes and shops
• Visit Fort Scratchley
• See how many of Newcastles Beaches you can visit in one weekend
• Newcastle ANZAC Memorial Walk
• Blackbutt Reserve – Native Australian animals and free entry
• Caves Beach at Lake Macquarie
• Nobbys Lighthouse

• 2.5 hours north of Sydney on the M1
• 2.5 hour train ride from Central – choose an express train, or it will take longer

Related: Check out our Newcastle weekend getaway for more ideas

Port Stephens

We are pushing the time limit a little here but if you are up for it a visit to Port Stephens is well worth your effort. Know upfront though this is a big day of driving and best with 2 of you sharing the load. A water wonderland with its own dolphin pod living in the surrounding waters. Port Stephens is off most international visitors radars, and that’s a shame because its beaches are stunning and it offers a fantastic range of adventure activities.

Why visit: Port Stephens is twice the size of Sydney Habour and every bit as beautiful with more than 25 beaches to keep you busy it’s a top pick for water lovers.

• Tomaree Headland Lookout
• Gan Gan Lookout (less strenuous than Tomaree)
• Stockton Sand Dunes
• Dolphin Watching from Nelson Bay
• Zenith and Wreck Beaches
• 2 hours 20 minutes along the M1 Motorway
• Port Stephens Express Bus from Central Station suitable for an overnight trip only
• Without a car, we highly recommend you take a day trip like this one that includes the sand dunes and Port Stephens waterways and dolphins.

Related: See how The Boy Eats World team spend their day getting adventurous in Port Stephens

Too many choices and not enough time? Let us help you decide…

Best day trip from Sydney by car?

A day at Kur-Ring-Gai National Park swimming, walking, discovering wildflowers and aboriginal rock engravings and taking in all the lookouts is a perfect day out of Sydney. At less than 50km from the centre of town, it’s not too long in the car either.

The best Sydney day trip from without a car?

The day trip to Palm Beach is an excellent public transport trip. Ride the bus along the beautiful northern beaches is lovely and once you get there, an easy bushwalk to the lighthouse and a ride on the ferry across Pittwater make a great day out any time of the year.

Best day trip from Sydney by train?

One of the easiest is the Hawkesbury River/Dangar Island combination. It’s a comfortable train ride, a short walk to the ferry terminal and then a pleasant ride over to Dangar Island. Once there you can do a circular walk around the island, visit the local club or have some lunch at the general store. My friend Joanne lives on the island and has a great article about exploring Dangar Island . Every time I visit, I feel like I have travelled a million miles from Sydney in just over an hour.

Which best day trip is best made with a tour operator?

Visits to Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley are both great options for letting the professionals organise your day for you if you don’t have a car. In the Hunter you will be free to drink all the wine and the Port Stephens day is a long one with a bit of work required to synchronise the sites and attractions into a one day visit.

Best day trip from Sydney for families?

Heading south to Stanwell Tops and the Grand Pacific Drive is a great day out for families. Symbio Wildlife Park is fantastic, and kids will love spending time here. Follow this with a swim at Cronulla beaches or a stop at the Loftus Tram Museum for a full day out.

Well, we hope you have found something you like among these places to go 2 hours from Sydney but if you need more ideas, check out more things to do here .

Featured image: Zenith Beach Port Stephens

4 thoughts on “The Best Day Trips From Sydney”

Hunter Valley sure looks like a place I would enjoy visiting 🙂 Merry christmas from Stockholm Sweden!

Great post. Super informative. I was just in Australia for the first time in November. I didn’t get to Sydney but was in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Melbourne. If I go back I am putting Nobby’s Lighthouse on my list. WOW.

Hey ! where the photo at the very top was taken? Looks amazing and exactly where I want to head today ! Thank you for all your info!

The photo at the very top was taken at Zenith Beach in Port Stephens. The first photo in the article itself is from Mount Ettalong Lookout between Umina and Pearl Beach on the Central Coast. Hope you have a great day!

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Women's Murramarang 4-Day South Coast Hike

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On the four-day South Coast walk in Murramarang National Park, you'll enjoy the remote beauty of stunning beaches and secluded campsites. With no power, you'll reconnect with nature and bond around campfires at night. This breathtaking trip is designed for relaxed walking with day packs only, and our brilliant team will prepare meals and share the stories of the coastline with you.

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Book by 9 September 2024.

Cabin upgrades

Featured prices are based on an Inside cabin while cruising but we’ve also found savings of up to $2460 on Outside cabins and up to $1960 on Balcony cabins. Upgrades start at $1000 per person:

• +$1000 for an Outside cabin (Club Oceanview)
• +$2000 for a Balcony cabin (Club Veranda)

To find out more, see our partner's website .

Holiday snapshot

Melbourne - Sydney (White Bay) - Milford Sound - Dunedin - Christchurch - Wellington - Picton - Napier - Gisborne -  Whangarei - Bay of Islands - Auckland - Australia

About the itinerary

Day 1: Head to Port Melbourne to board the Azamara Pursuit!

Day 2: Today, you'll be sea cruising north toward Sydney. Settle into your cruise and discover the world-class service Azamara is known for.

Days 3-5: Settle into a two-night stay in Sydney. While here, you could explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, take a ferry ride around the stunning Sydney Harbour or soak up the sun at Bondi Beach.

Days 6-7: Enjoy two days of sailing toward New Zealand.

Day 8: Today, you'll sail into the incredible Milford Sound. Expect to see Majestic granite peaks, serene waters and untouched wilderness. 

Day 9: Today, discover Dunedin. While here, you could explore the historic Larnach Castle, take a scenic drive along the Otago Peninsula, or visit the world's steepest street, Baldwin Street.

Day 10: Immerse yourself in colourful Christchurch today. You could visit the picturesque Botanic Gardens, take a punt ride on the Avon River, or explore the vibrant street art scene.

Day 11: This morning, you'll arrive in beautiful Wellington. There are endless sites to enjoy in this city. You could explore the interactive exhibits at Te Papa Museum, ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views of the city, or wander through vibrant Cuba Street for shopping and dining experiences.

Day 12: Experience the enchantment of Picton today. You could stroll along the picturesque Picton Foreshore, visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum to learn about the area's maritime history or hike the Queen Charlotte Track for stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.

Day 13: Journey through beautiful Napier today. You could discover the Art Deco architecture on a guided walking tour, taste the renowned wines of the Hawke's Bay region on a winery tour or relax on the scenic beaches of Marine Parade.

Day 14: Embrace the beauty of Gisborne today. You could explore the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, a vast collection of trees and plants from around the world, visit the Tairawhiti Museum to learn about the region's history and culture or take a surf lesson on the famous surf breaks of Gisborne.

Day 15: Discover Whangarei today. You could visit the stunning Whangarei Falls, wander through the Town Basin waterfront precinct or dive or snorkel at the renowned Poor Knights Islands.

Day 16: Today, you'll sail into the stunning Bay of Islands. This picturesque maritime playground in New Zealand is known for its spectacular natural beauty, historic sites, and abundant water-based activities such as cruising, fishing, and kayaking.

Day 17: Today, you'll arrive in Auckland, also known as the City of Sails, due to its large number of boats and yachts. You'll be transferred to your hotel for the evening. While in Auckland, you could see the vibrant waterfront precinct of Viaduct Harbour, hike to the top of Mount Eden for panoramic city views, or visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand's history and culture.

Day 18: Today, you'll be transferred to the airport to meet your flight back to Australia.

*Subject to availability and some restrictions may apply. All prices are in AUD and based on twin share.  Featured prices are based on departures from Melbourne. Roundtrip flights from Perth, Sydney and Adelaide available from an extra $200 per person.

When You Can Go

4 January 2025

How to Book

Call Imagine Holidays at (02) 7254 2118 .

Please mention 'Travelzoo' at time of booking.

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