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Visiting and exploring NSW

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Visiting and exploring NSW information

Visit regional nsw.

Explore ancient landscapes, historic towns, beaches, snowfields, wilderness and rainforests. Find regional festivals, events and accommodation to suit all budgets.

Visit Sydney

Explore Sydney's heritage, beaches and natural wonders using an extensive network of public trains, buses, ferries and light rail.

Visit a national park

Search for a national park or nature reserve. Check park safety alerts. Find campgrounds and caravan parks. Volunteer to help the environment.

Experience arts, culture and heritage
Find sports and outdoor activities
Find walks near me
NSW locations and attractions
NSW COVID-19 travel information

Explore NSW beaches and waterways

NSW offers spectacular beaches and world-class surf breaks. Boating and fishing are popular activities along the coast and on our lakes and rivers.

Elizabeth Beach in Booti Booti National Park. Photo credit: John Spencer © DPIE

Beach safety

The beach is for everyone to enjoy. Knowing how to stay safe while at the beach will make sure that you and your family have the best day possible.

Climate, weather and safety

Check current weather, find information about climate change and advice on how to stay safe during times of fire, flood or storms.

Getting around NSW

With good roads and integrated public and private transport networks, getting around NSW is easy. You’ll find transport options to suit all budgets, from self-driving to trains, planes and coaches.

Latest visiting and exploring NSW updates

Shared community vision for the coffs jetty precinct taking shape, safe showbags the go for the easter show, speedway makes a successful return to eastern creek, record crowd celebrates the nsw seniors festival, new blue plaque looks over bondi’s big blue, related information, bushwalking safety, nsw public transport.

Zebedee Springs, The Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Tourism Australia

Discover your Australia

Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia

Travel videos

Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, QLD © Tourism Australia

Deals and offers

Jacarandas and Sydney Harbour at sunset, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW

Australian Capital Territory

Bondi, Sydney, NSW © Georges Antoni and Ken Butti

New South Wales

West MacDonnell Ranges, NT © Tourism Australia

Northern Territory

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism Australia

South Australia

Cradle Mountain, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, TAS © Pierre Destribats

Western Australia

Aerial shot of Emily Bay on Norfolk Island © Rose Evans (Norfolk Island Tourism)

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, WA © Tourism Western Australia

Mornington Peninsula

Paddleboarding, Noosa, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Port Douglas

Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, NSW © Destination NSW

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Lake McKenzie, K’gari (Fraser Island), QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Cape Naturaliste, near Dunsborough, WA © Tourism Western Australia

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

Grampians National Park, Victoria © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

Sea turtle, Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Bubble Tents, Capertree, Mudgee Region, NSW © Australian Traveller

Alice Springs

Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Monkey Mia, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, WA © Tourism Western Australia

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Spicers Peak, Scenic Rim, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Purnululu National Park

Boat Shed, Lake Dove and Cradle Mountain, Cradle-Mountain Lake St Clare National Park, TAS © Adrian Cook

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Saffire Signature Experiences, Freycinet Marine Oyster Farm, Coles Bay, Freycinet National Park, TAS © Tourism Tasmania

Aboriginal experiences

National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, VIC © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria

Arts and culture

WOMADelaide 2019, Adelaide, SA Ⓒ Grant Hancock

Festivals and events

Detour Restaurant, Brisbane, QLD © @detourrestaurant and @dine.agency

Food and drink

Raging Thunder, Tully, QLD © Tourism Australia

Adventure and sports

Three Capes Track, Tasman National Park, TAS © Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service

Walks and hikes

Great Ocean Road, VIC © Tourism Australia

Road trips and drives

Waterline Charters, Wessel Islands, NT © Aussie Fly Fisher

Beaches and islands

Nature's Window, Kalbarri National Park, WA © Tourism Australia

Nature and national parks

Wombat, Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh, NSW © Destination NSW

Eco-friendly travel

Group of friends participate in a body clay ritual at Peninsula Hot Springs © Peninsula Hot Springs

Health and wellness

The Dune Pavilion Deck with views of Uluru at Longitude 131 in the Northern Territory © Baillies Longitude 131

Family travel

Table Cape Tulip Farm, Wynyard, Tasmania © Tourism Australia

Family destinations

Hellfire Bay, Esperance, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Family road trips

Merewether Baths, Newcastle, NSW © Destination NSW

Backpacking

Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Salty Aura

Work and holiday

Sand Dune Adventures at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, NSW © Tourism Australia

Beginner's guide

Man in a wheelchair looking up at the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Accessible travel

Mrs Macquarie's Chair, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW

Planning tips

Trip planner

Cape Tribulation, Tropical North Queensland, QLD © Tourism Australia

Australian budget guide

Aerial of car driving through palm trees in Tropical North Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland / Sean Scott.

Itinerary planner

Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA © Australia’s Golden Outback

Find a travel agent

Beach House on Wategos Beach, Byron Bay, NSW © Tourism Australia

Find accommodation

Indian Pacific, Lake Hart, SA © Andrew Gregory

Find transport

Snowy region, Jindabyne, NSW © DPIE-Murray Van Der Veer

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Sydney Airport, New South Wales © Sydney Airport

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Passengers using SmartGate © Australian Border Force

Customs and biosecurity

Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism NT/Matt Cherubino

Working Holiday Maker visas

Bronte Baths, Bronte Beach, Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia

Facts about Australia

Prairie Hotel, Parachilna, SA © South Australian Tourism Commission

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Georges Antoni / Tourism Australia

People and culture

Castle Hill, Townsville, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Health and safety FAQ

Sorrento Pier, VIC © Visit Victoria, Ewen Bell

Cities, states & territories

Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower, Lord Howe Island © Tom Archer

Iconic places and attractions

Wildflowers, near Hamelin Pool, WA © Tourism Western Australia

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Ringer Reef Winery, Bright, VIC © Visit Victoria

Seasonal travel

Human Progress Pride flag, Sydney, NSW © Daniel Boud

Events and festivals

Silverdale Olive Orchard, Coral Coast, WA © Australia's Coral Coast

School holidays

Sydney New Year's Eve, Sydney Harbour, NSW © Destination NSW

Public holidays

Sydney Harbour, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

Gantheaume Point, Broome, WA © Tourism Australia

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

Self-drive, Marrawah, TAS © Tourism Tasmania

How to travel around Australia

Car driving on road next to the ocean in Lagoons Beach Conservation Area © Pete Harmsen/Tourism Tasmania

Guide to driving in Australia

Maui Motorhome parked on the coastline in Tasmania © Tourism Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

Family strolling alongside Tilligerry Creek © Destination NSW

How to plan a family road trip

Car drives along the Matilda Way in Outback Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

How to plan an outback road trip

Bondi, Sydney, New South Wales © Georges Antoni and Ken Butti

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Top things to do
Getting to New South Wales

New South Wales boasts endless golden beaches, breathtaking natural treasures and one of the world’s most famous and vibrant cities.

New South Wales is well-known for its sparkling capital of Sydney , its seemingly endless beaches and bushland, and its sophisticated dining scene. But combine the icons with lesser-known attractions, and this east coast state becomes a destination worthy of bucket list status.

Stunning coastlines, rugged outback, hazy mountain ranges and even lush, subtropical forests are all natural features that can be found throughout New South Wales. Here are just a few of the state's top destinations worth exploring:

Sip world-class wines in Mudgee and the Hunter Valley
Escape to chilled-out coastal destinations like Port Stephens and Byron Bay
Camp, hike and mountain bike in the national parks of the Blue Mountains and Sapphire Coast

Sydney is one of Australia’s most accessible cities, making New South Wales easy to explore.

International flights arrive into Sydney Airport (SYD) daily from around the world, and you can fly to Sydney from every major Australian city, as well as from regional Australia. New South Wales also has regional airports in popular destinations like Byron Bay and Newcastle, as well as some smaller towns like Mudgee.

If you’d rather stick with four wheels, New South Wales is an epic destination for road trips , with beautiful winding coastlines and endless rugged bushland to explore. The drive to Sydney takes three hours from Canberra and about nine hours from Melbourne and Brisbane .

Popular destinations in New South Wales

The Blue Mountains

Port Stephens

Merimbula Beach, Merimbula, NSW © Dee Kramer Photography

The Sapphire Coast

Mungo National Park

Merewether Beach, Newcastle, NSW © Tourism Australia

The Southern Highlands

Trips and itineraries

Blenheim Beach, Jervis Bay, NSW © Destination NSW

12-day road trip through New South Wales

Forest Caves Beach, Phillip Island, Victoria © Visit Victoria

9-day Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

Riley, Cairns, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Sydney to Cairns 14-day road trip

Pebbly Beach, South Coast, NSW © Tourism Australia

Family road tripping on the South Coast

Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay, NSW © Kate Nutt, Destination NSW

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

Greenfield Beach, South Coast, NSW © Destination NSW

Sydney to the Sapphire Coast: a 6-day road trip   

Skyline, Melbourne, VIC © Visit Victoria

8-day Sydney to Melbourne inland drive

Scuba Diving in the Fitzroy Reef Lagoon at the Great Barrier Reef © Tourism and Events Queensland

The ultimate trip to Australia

Things to do in new south wales.

Wattamolla, Royal National Park Sydney, NSW © Filippo Rivetti, Destination NSW

The best day trips from Sydney

Circa 1876, Hunter Valley, NSW. © The Convent Hunter Valley

Great places to eat in the Hunter Valley

Three Sisters, Grose Valley, Blue Mountains, NSW © Tourism Australia, David Ireland

An Instagrammers' guide to the Blue Mountains

Looking for more inspiration? Go to visitnsw.com

Travellers' stories, explore australia's states and territories.

Canberra, ACT © Damian Breach for VisitCanberra

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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*Product Disclaimer: Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

Destination NSW

Level 2, 88 Cumberland Street Sydney NSW 2000

GPO Box 7050 Sydney NSW 2001

More information

Destination NSW is responsible for devising and implementing strategies to grow the visitor economy, with particular focus on driving tourism and acquiring and developing major sporting and cultural events for Sydney and regional NSW.

Related agencies

Boards, committees and councils.

Destination NSW Board of Management

Related department

Featured services.

Visit NSW – Destination NSW official tourism site
Sydney.com – Destination NSW official tourism site
Events funding and tourism grants
Business support resources
Key NSW and international contacts
Tourism industry network
Websites and social media channels

Content Library
Media Centre
Resource Hub

Business support

Get Connected
NSW First Program
Signposting
Marketing campaigns
Consumer marketing
Event investment
Business events
Vivid Sydney
International
Newsletters
Our organisation
Strategies and plans
Annual reports
Access to information
Destination networks

Content Library Images, videos and editorial content showcasing destinations and experiences across Sydney and NSW.

Images, videos and editorial content showcasing destinations and experiences across Sydney and NSW.

Destination NSW marketing resources to help with promotions, including our brand guidelines, industry toolkits, campaign logos and images.

Strategies & plans

Destination NSW’s strategy and planning is directed to promote the sustainable growth and development of the visitor economy in NSW.

Visitor economy strategy 2030

Target to 2030.

The NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 sets a target to triple 2009 overnight visitor expenditure in NSW by 2030 surpassing previous targets despite recent challenges. Specific targets include

$65 billion in total visitor expenditure for NSW by 2030
$10 billion in domestic daytrips by 2030
$55 billion in overnight visitor expenditure by 2030
$25 billion in regional overnight visitor expenditure by 2030.

Key themes and actions

Five strategic pillars underpin the NSW Government’s vision to be the premier visitor economy in the Asia-Pacific by 2030.

Road to recovery

A comprehensive program of marketing and industry development will ensure NSW recovers quickly from the impacts of COVID-19, bushfires, drought and floods and elevates its status as the premier visitor economy in the Asia-Pacific.

How we’ll do it:

Deliver a suite of consumer and industry programs to reboot the visitor economy
Promote Sydney and NSW through striking new marketing campaigns, world-class events and a renewed focus on the 24-hour economy
Support visitor economy businesses to adapt, recover and flourish by providing a comprehensive suite of grants, training and business advice programs delivered through a new one-stop shop
Bolster visitor destinations through the largest investment in transport and visitor infrastructure and access in Australia.

Build the brand

Compelling new brands will be developed for Sydney and NSW to provide a strong foundation for differentiation, consumer messaging, local pride and competitiveness to turbo-charge recovery and accelerate future growth.

Develop and launch a compelling new brand for Sydney and NSW based on robust consumer research and data analysis
Consistently use the new brand to promote Sydney and NSW as an exciting place to visit, invest, do business and study
Work with industry and across government to ensure that all aspects of the visitor journey deliver on the brand promise, including products, experiences and events.

Showcase our strengths

NSW is a state of breathtaking diversity and bucket list visitor attractions and experiences. We will focus on existing strengths and develop new opportunities to ensure place making, destination marketing, events and visitor experiences drive visitation.

Prioritise funding and industry support for new products and experiences that reinforce the strengths
Implement new needs-based industry development programs to facilitate the digital transformation of visitor economy businesses, enhance the quality of visitor experiences, and ensure the sustainability and resilience of visitor economy businesses
Deliver marketing and PR campaigns that emphasise and reinforce the distinctive character and features of NSW visitor destinations.

Invest in world-class events

An accelerated investment in signature sporting and cultural events such as the 10 World Cups and Vivid Sydney as well as business events will help position Sydney and NSW as the events capital of the Asia-Pacific, drive visitation and enhance the social wellbeing of NSW residents.

Secure and host world-class business, sports and cultural events that appeal to high-value travellers and position Sydney and NSW as the events capital of the Asia-Pacific
Invest in and nurture iconic home-grown events that reflect the vibrancy of NSW visitor destinations
Provide the best events facilities in Australia, and a whole-of-government approach, making it easy to produce events in NSW.

Facilitate growth

Investing in infrastructure, job creation, industry resilience and sustainability, future planning, and better ways to do business will ensure the continued growth and future prosperity of the NSW visitor economy.

Make it easier for businesses to establish and expand in NSW through streamlined licensing and planning approval processes
Prioritise planning and investment in major projects that will have the most impact on the visitor economy
Enhance the capacity, productivity and professionalism of the visitor economy workforce with technology and new training programs.

Focus on outcomes

The strategy reinforces the NSW Government’s focus on outcomes. The key outcomes for the visitor economy are economic growth and job creation. The strategy seeks to align and coordinate resources and initiatives across the NSW Government to maximise their impact for the visitor economy.

Drive alignment of funding and resources for the visitor economy to achieve economic growth and job creation
Report annually on progress against the Key Results Areas and the Visitor Expenditure Targets and review this strategy after three years
Complete the Visitor Economy Index and investigate new ways of measuring the impact of the visitor economy and the issues that businesses are facing.
NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 PDF

Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Destination NSW has implemented a Disability Inclusion Action Plan that sets out the actions that the organisation is taking, and will take, to support people living with a disability. This includes supporting those people living with a disability who work at Destination NSW as well as those with whom the organisation engages in the broader community.

Destination NSW is required to report to Government and the general community on the status of its Disability Inclusion Action Plan and the actions being undertaken by them. The plan will continue to develop and be refined as actions are completed and new issues emerge.

Destination NSW Disability Inclusion Action Plan PDF

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Sydney, Australia

Welcome to Sydney, with new experiences around every corner. As the official tourism, destinations and events website, let us guide you through this surprising city.

Wildlife, nightlife, the good life. Hidden restaurants down historic laneways, famous icons on Sydney Harbour, an endless calendar of events. Golden sands, turquoise oceans, dewy green rainforests. This is Sydney. Bring the family, your best mates, your soul mate — and feel the city’s heartbeat all year round. So, where to first?

Plan your trip to Vivid Sydney

Father & daughter enjoying the "Swarm" light installation at Vivid Sydney

Visiting with kids

Pumphouse Bar & Restaurant during Vivid Sydney

Unmissable food experiences

Lighting of the Sails - "Life Enlivened"

Free things to do

A first-timer's guide

Must-see events, discover the best of sydney.

Tour the famous Sydney Opera House

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Discover The Rocks precinct

Family enjoying the Bondi to Coogee walk in Sydney East

Your guide to the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk

Cuddly koala resting in its tree at Taronga Zoo, Sydney

Meet wildlife at Taronga Zoo

Explore the Royal Botanic Garden

Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney

Get a culture fix at the Art Gallery of NSW

Swim at iconic Bondi Beach

Exterior view of Barangaroo House in Barangaroo, Sydney

Check out trendy Barangaroo

Soak in the views at Sydney Tower Eye

Expand your mind at the MCA

Young girl places a red packet into the mouth of the dragon during Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Sydney City

Eat your way through Chinatown

Hotels in Sydney

Accommodation options in Bondi

Luxury hotels

10 most unique stays in Sydney

Pier One Sydney Harbour - Credit: Dave Wheeler

Pet-friendly accommodation

Family relaxing and roasting marshmallows at their Cockatoo Island waterfront campsite

Cockatoo Island's waterfront camping

Curious giraffes at Taronga Zoo in Mosman, Sydney

Roar & Snore at Taronga Zoo

Jonah's Boutique Hotel on the Northern Beaches

Love Cabins Hawkesbury

Caravan & camping near Sydney

Sydney Crown Hotel in the City Centre, Sydney

4 ways to stay in Sydney

Render of public pool at Capella Sydney, Sydney CBD

7 of the newest Sydney hotels

Young girl enjoying the action at TreeTops Adventure Park in Abbotsbury, Sydney West

Top attractions for kids

Kids Room at Swissôtel Sydney in Sydney City

Where to stay with kids in Sydney

Family feeding a wallaby at Featherdale Wildlife Park, Doonside in Sydney west

Zoos & wlidlife encounters

A 3-day family itinerary in Sydney

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Australian National Maritime Museum - Darling Harbour - Dinosaur Skeleton

Top museums in Sydney

Family enjoying food and drink at The Newport, Newport with scenic views of Pittwater

Where to eat out with the family

Family walking at Badu Mangroves in Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney West

Kid-friendly tours in Sydney

Family exploring the HMB Endeavour, an Australian-built replica of James Cook's ship on exhibit at the Australian National Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour

8 budget-friendly school holiday activities

Family enjoying a self-guided audio tour on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour

Free things to do with kids

Luna Park Sydney

Family enjoying day at Mona Vale Beach, Mona Vale

Family-friendly beaches

The best musicals now showing

Visitors enjoying the art exhibition on display at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, Casula

Art galleries & exhibitions

The peaceful and scenic grounds of the Chinese Garden of Friendship in Chinatown, Darling Harbour

4 self-guided Sydney culture trails

Views across Sydney from Bar 83 at Sydney Tower, Sydney CBD

A design lover's guide to Sydney

Emma Matthews as Violetta, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour

Must-see theatre & shows

Dance, cabaret & ballet

Patrons enjoying live music at the Oxford Art Factory in Darlinghurst, Inner Sydney

Concerts & live music

Aboriginal artwork for sale at the Blak Markets on Bare Island, La Perouse

Where to see Aboriginal art in Sydney

Hyde Park Barracks. Image Credit: James Horan

Delve into Sydney's history

Aboriginal Dancers from the Jannawi Dance Clan

Aboriginal tours of Sydney Harbour

Sydney Comedy Festival Gala, Sydney Opera House - Credit: Kabuku PR

Catch a comedy show

Streetscapes of Central Park buildings in Chippendale, Sydney

Sydney's most Instagrammable buildings

Couple enjoying food and drink with harbour views at Opera Bar, Sydney.

How to spend 3 days in Sydney

72 hours in Sydney for luxury lovers

Friends enjoying Middle Eastern cuisine at Nour Restaurant, Surry Hills

A gourmet weekend in Sydney

A scenic day trip to the Blue Mountains

An adventurous day trip to Parramatta

A sun-soaked day trip to the Northern Beaches

A coastal day trip to Cronulla

A pet-friendly holiday in Sydney

A Sydney escape for romance

Woman abseiling at Cahills Lookout, Katoomba in the Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains adventure weekend

Enjoying a picnic at Audrey Wilkinson in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley

An indulgent 72 hours in the Hunter Valley

Credit: Basement on Market St, Newcastle

A long weekend in Newcastle for foodies

Tastiest Eat Streets in Sydney

Maybe Sammy, the Rocks - Credit: DS OFICINA

Cocktail bars in Sydney

Credit: P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants Paddington

Where to go wine tasting

Waterside restaurants

Food tours & cooking schools

Best brunch spots

Friends sitting around a table at a raman restaurant

Explore Western Sydney's street food

Good brunch at Speedos in North Bondi, Sydney East

Sydney's most innovative vegan restaurants

Beer gardens in Sydney

Dog treats at Honkas Bar & Eats, Potts Point

Dog-friendly restaurants

Plated strawberry watermelon cake at Black Star Pastry, Newtown

Sydney's most decadent desserts

Friends and families enjoying the heritage Tramsheds, Harold Park

Dining precincts in Sydney

What's happening in sydney view all.

Where to dine on native ingredients in Sydney

Aboriginal Tour - Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

24 of the best walking tours in Sydney

Couple enjoying a romantic picnic by Hawkesbury River, Wisemans Ferry

The best places to see Sydney's autumn colours

Sydney deals & packages.

Friends on whale watching aboard Captain Cook Cruises on Sydney Harbour

Feel Indulgent with Accor Hotels

Book your next Sydney stay at an Accor property with rates from $165 per night

Indulge in a day of shopping and fine dining, take in a musical or an art exhibition or explore a harbour walk and glistening beaches.

More about Sydney

Wondering where to stay in Sydney? Then explore the accommodation options on the website. You can make reservations as well. Getting around is easy on public transport . Ferries and harbour cruises are a memorable way to experience the beauty of one of the world’s great natural harbours.

Hop on a ferry at Circular Quay for Taronga Zoo , Manly or Watsons Bay . You can also take a ferry to intriguing Sydney Harbour islands and Parramatta for delicious food and colonial heritage. Or jump aboard a Tribal Warrior cruise and explore Aboriginal culture, the world’s oldest living culture.

Aboriginal people have a long connection with Sydney, dating back at least 50,000 years before the First Fleet arrived in 1788. There are fun and informative Aboriginal-guided tours , including in national parks where you can see ancient indigenous ochre hand-paintings and rock engravings.

The following pages will also help you plan your holidays, short breaks and weekend escapes:

Places to stay
Things to do
Places to visit
Events in Sydney
Deals and packages
Tours in Sydney
Hire cars, kayaks and other things

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay connected to Sydney for all the latest news, stories, upcoming events and travel inspiration.

Discover Somewhere New

All the insider news, tips and inspiration you need to plan your next trip, delivered straight to your inbox.

Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state’s first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water.

NSW Government
Destination New South Wales (Corporate site)

NSW Travel Guide

Why visit nsw.

NSW is home to more Australians than any other state. The state offers more diversity than any of its neighbours; there is a real outback, the country’s highest snowfields, a world-famous harbour and, of course, the much loved east coast beaches. You probably already have Sydney on your list, but there is so much more to NSW. When you begin to plan your itinerary, consider these facts:

870 national parks and reserves to wander
2137 km of coastline
Six UNESCO World Heritage areas
Australia’s oldest wine region
a true red dirt outback and all the great characters that go with it.

So let’s start exploring NSW and see what takes your fancy.

Regions in NSW

You could easily spend a year exploring the many towns of NSW; however, most travellers stick to the coast. However, there is so much to see, including the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and outback!

The main regions of NSW are:

Blue Mountains
Central Coast
North Coast Region
New England
Central NSW
Outback NSW
Snowy Mountains
South Coast Region

There is enough variety in the state to keep you busy for years’ worth of holidays.

Featured NSW Road Trip

Exploring 8 Beautiful Port Macquarie Beaches

Nsw travel planning.

Our NSW travel guide will help you decide which region, town and cities in New South Wales you should visit on your next trip. We cover the basics of planning a trip and give you a quick rundown on the main tourist regions and the most popular things to do in Sydney and the states other key towns.

How to get to NSW

International airport.

New South Wales has one international airport, Kingsford Smith, which is in Mascot in the city’s south east. A second international airport is under construction at Badgerys Creek to the west of the city.

Key Domestic airports

There are small airports around the state; Rex Airlines service 18 of them if you need to get somewhere in a hurry.

The two main airports are:

Sydney International – three terminals, one international and two domestic
Newcastle – which offers direct services to Canberra, Melbourne, Dubbo, and the Gold Coast

Interstate Trains

You can take trains from Sydney to Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. All interstate services leave from Central Station, and tickets can be purchased via CountryLink or, in the case of the latter two, from Journey Beyond .

Interstate Buses

Three companies offer travel between Sydney and the other capital cities.

Greyhound offers a national bus network
Firefly offer routes between Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide
Murrays travel from Sydney to Wollongong and Canberra.

What’s new

Leura Train Station - Blue Mountains by train

Expert Tips for Visiting the Blue Mountains by Train in 2024

7 Days in Sydney-An Itinerary for a First Visit

How to get around NSW

Public transport.

Much of NSW is covered on the Opal Card; you can download the app on your phone or use your credit/debit card to tap on and off. Opal is used for ticketing in Sydney, Blue Mountains, Hunter Region, Central Coast, Illawarra, Southern Highlands.

Driving distances by average time taken

Sydney to Wollongong – 1hr 30m
Sydney to Katoomba – 1hr 30m
Sydney to Newcastle – 2hrs 15m
Sydney to Jervis Bay – 3hrs
Sydney to Hunter Valley (Pokolbin) – 3hrs 20m
Sydney to Orange – 3hr 30m
Sydney to Batemans Bay – 4hrs
Sydney to Port Macquarie – 4hrs 15m
Sydney to Tamworth – 4hrs 50m
Sydney To Jindabyne – 4hrs 50m
Sydney to Dubbo – 5hrs
Sydney to Byron Bay – 8 hrs 20m
Sydney to Broken Hill – 13hrs

Numerous smaller companies offer domestic bus services to towns along the NSW coast.

Explore more of new south wales

Scenic country views of Mount Warning in the Tweed Range.

Exploring the Gorgeous Tweed Valley

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Destination North Coast NSW

A warm welcome wherever you go, destination north coast.

As the tourism agency for the North Coast region, Destination North Coast works with visitor economy stakeholders to drive, coordinate, and support the sustainable management and development of tourism across the region. Our goal is to strengthen and enhance the region’s visitor experiences to help sustainably grow the North Coast visitor economy and in doing so support the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy 2030.

This will involve working with rural and hinterland areas to grow local visitor economies that can benefit from increased tourism and to help mature destinations that are impacted by high tourist numbers in peak times (e.g. those in prime coastal areas) to plan and manage tourism.

This includes:

Attracting an appropriate mix of intrastate, interstate and international visitors;
Increasing visitation in low and shoulder seasons;
Encouraging greater dispersal and spend; and
Ensuring tourism is managed sustainably.

Have an enquiry, feedback or want to get in touch with us?

We pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land we now call New South Wales and acknowledge their enduring culture and continued connection to Country. We extend our respect to Elders, past and present, and acknowledge future generations of Aboriginal people. We acknowledge visitors from across Australia and around the world are made welcome on Aboriginal lands by the Traditional Custodians of NSW. We acknowledge the significant contribution made by Aboriginal people to the development and promotion of the visitor economy.

2023 NSW Tourism Awards winners announced

8 Nov 2023 2023 NSW Tourism Awards winners announced 2023 NSW Tourism Awards winners announced The state’s peak tourism organisation, NSW Tourism Industry Council, is excited to announce the winners of the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards for 2023.  Held this evening in iconic White Bay Cruise Terminal Sydney, over 500 industry representatives gathered to celebrate these outstanding tourism businesses. The awards are managed by the NSW Tourism Industry Council powered by Business NSW, the state’s peak business organisation, and supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. “The NSW Tourism Awards celebrate those tourism experiences that inspire visitors to #feelnewsouthwales and recognise those businesses who exemplify outstanding tourism experiences,” said Paula Martin, Executive Director, NSW Tourism Industry Council. “These businesses provide leadership in innovation, marketing and in the delivery of quality products and services. They also advance and promote the NSW and Australian tourism industry through consistent customer service and quality experiences. “A highlight of this year’s awards program was the high number of first-time entrants (60), many of whom are new businesses to the sector. “This level of representation from emerging businesses tells us that innovation is alive and well in tourism and we are proud of the resilience of the sector,” Paula Martin said.   Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said it’s an exciting time for visitors in NSW, with domestic and international visitor expenditure in NSW surpassing pre-pandemic levels. “We know our visitors don’t just want a selfie in front of the Sydney Opera House, they want to be immersed in the culture of the place and to experience what’s happening in and around iconic buildings, secret neighbourhoods, and in our beautiful natural environment. “Cultural activity is so much of why we love our towns and cities and it’s a big part of what attracts visitors and what keeps them coming back. “Congratulations to all the winners and the whole hard-working sector.” Lori Modde, one of the most passionate and hardworking tourism professionals in NSW and ACT was awarded the Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to NSW in recognition of her dedication and advocacy for tourism in her State, over the past 18+ years. Crank It Up Festival, Batemans Bay was the recipient of the Judges’ Tourism Star Award’, a special award to reward their tremendous resilience and innovation, and Mt Hay Retreat, Berry was awarded the Tourism Star Award for Sustainability, to recognise their outstanding efforts and practices in sustainability. Winners in the designated national award categories will represent NSW at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Darwin, 15 March 2023. EDITORS’ NOTE: A full list of this year’s NSW Tourism Awards winners by category is outlined below. About NSW Tourism Industry Council Powered by Business NSW, the NSW Tourism Industry Council helps businesses operating in the Visitor Economy maximise their potential to ensure New South Wales remains the number one tourism destination in Australia. Media enquiries: Paula Martin - 0414 901 777 2023 NSW Tourism Award Winners: Major Tourist Attractions Gold: Australian Reptile Park, Somersby Silver: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Bronze: Jamberoo Action Park Tourist Attractions Gold: Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Silver: iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Penrith Bronze: Old Dubbo Gaol Major Festivals and Events Gold: Tamworth Country Music Festival Silver: Byron Bay Bluesfest 2023 Festivals and Events Gold: Tumbafest Inc, Tumbarumba Silver: Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail Bronze: Bathurst Winter Festival Ecotourism Gold: Sydney By Kayak, Lavender Bay Silver: Vision Walks - Eco Tours, Byron Bay Bronze: Kestrel Nest EcoHut, Mt Adrah Cultural Tourism Gold: Local Sauce Tours, Sydney Silver: Old Dubbo Gaol Excellence in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience Gold: Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience, Gumbaynggirr Country, Coffs Harbour Tourism Retail, Hire and Services Gold & Hall of Fame: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Mosman Silver: Camplify, Newcastle Bronze: Ask Roz Blue Mountains Visitor Information Services Gold: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre Business Event Venues Gold: Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific Silver: Hyatt Regency Sydney Bronze: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery, Leura Major Tour & Transport Operators Gold: Moonshadow - TQC Cruises, Nelson Bay, Port Stephens Tour & Transport Operators Gold: Vision Walks - Eco Tours, Byron Bay Silver: Tweed Eco Cruises, Tweed Heads Bronze: Blue Mountains Stargazing Adventure Tourism Gold: Balloon Aloft Australia, Hunter Valley, Camden Valley, Mudgee and Byron Bay Silver: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Mosman Bronze: Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, Coffs Harbour, Gumbaynggirr Country Tourism Marketing & Campaigns Gold: The Tweed Tourism Company Silver: City of Newcastle Bronze: Destination Wollongong: Warm Up Wollongong Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Gold: Potager, Carool Silver: Love Lord Howe, Lord Howe Island Bronze: Margan Wines & Restaurant, Broke Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries Gold: Husk Farm Distillery, Tumbulgum Silver: Courabyra Wines, Tumbarumba Bronze: Cape Byron Distillery, McLeods Shoot Caravan & Holiday Parks Gold: Tiona, Forster Silver: Tasman Holiday Parks, Racecourse Beach Unique Accommodation Gold: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat, The Camden Haven Silver:  Evamor Valley, Mudgee Bronze: Wilga Station, Bathurst Self Contained Accommodation Gold: Peppertree Collection, Mudgee Silver: The Drawing Rooms of Berry Bronze: Cedars Mount View, Mount View 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation Gold: Oriana Retro Hotel & Resort, Orange Silver: The Byng Street Boutique Hotel, Orange 5 Star Luxury Accommodation Gold: Kalinya Estate, Bargo Silver: Mt Hay Retreat, Berry Bronze: Elements of Byron, Byron Bay New Tourism Business Gold: Contained In Nimbin Accommodation Silver: Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats, Port Macquarie Excellence in Food Tourism Gold: Love Lord Howe, Lord Howe Island Silver: Food I Am, Wagga Wagga Excellence in Accessible Tourism Gold: Cocky Guides, Sydney Local Government Award for Tourism Gold: Central Coast Council - Destination Central Coast Silver: Dubbo Regional Council Take 3 For The Sea Award For Visitor Litter Prevention Gold: Sydney By Kayak, Lavender Bay Silver: The Observatory Self Contained Apartments, Coffs Harbour Bronze: Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, Anna Bay Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual Lori Modde   Tourism Star Judges' Award Crank It Up Festival, Batemans Bay Tourism Star Judges' Award for Sustainability Mt Hay Retreat, Berry PDF

The state’s peak tourism organisation , NSW Tourism Industry Council , is excited to announce the winners of the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards for 2023.

Held this evening in iconic White Bay Cruise Terminal Sydney, over 500 industry representatives gathered to celebrate these outstanding tourism businesses.

The awards are managed by the NSW Tourism Industry Council powered by Business NSW, the state’s peak business organisation, and supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

“The NSW Tourism Awards celebrate those tourism experiences that inspire visitors to #feelnewsouthwales and recognise those businesses who exemplify outstanding tourism experiences,” said Paula Martin, Executive Director, NSW Tourism Industry Council.

“These businesses provide leadership in innovation, marketing and in the delivery of quality products and services. They also advance and promote the NSW and Australian tourism industry through consistent customer service and quality experiences. “A highlight of this year’s awards program was the high number of first-time entrants (60), many of whom are new businesses to the sector.

“This level of representation from emerging businesses tells us that innovation is alive and well in tourism and we are proud of the resilience of the sector,” Paula Martin said.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said it’s an exciting time for visitors in NSW, with domestic and international visitor expenditure in NSW surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

“We know our visitors don’t just want a selfie in front of the Sydney Opera House, they want to be immersed in the culture of the place and to experience what’s happening in and around iconic buildings, secret neighbourhoods, and in our beautiful natural environment.

“Cultural activity is so much of why we love our towns and cities and it’s a big part of what attracts visitors and what keeps them coming back.

“Congratulations to all the winners and the whole hard-working sector.” Lori Modde, one of the most passionate and hardworking tourism professionals in NSW and ACT was awarded the Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to NSW in recognition of her dedication and advocacy for tourism in her State, over the past 18+ years.

Crank It Up Festival , Batemans Bay was the recipient of the Judges’ Tourism Star Award’, a special award to reward their tremendous resilience and innovation, and Mt Hay Retreat, Berry was awarded the Tourism Star Award for Sustainability, to recognise their outstanding efforts and practices in sustainability.

Winners in the designated national award categories will represent NSW at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Darwin, 15 March 2023.

EDITORS’ NOTE : A full list of this year’s NSW Tourism Awards winners by category is outlined below.

About NSW Tourism Industry Council

Powered by Business NSW , the NSW Tourism Industry Council helps businesses operating in the Visitor Economy maximise their potential to ensure New South Wales remains the number one tourism destination in Australia. Media enquiries: Paula Martin - 0414 901 777 2023 NSW Tourism Award Winners:

Major Tourist Attractions Gold: Australian Reptile Park, Somersby Silver: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Bronze: Jamberoo Action Park

Tourist Attractions Gold: Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Silver: iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Penrith Bronze: Old Dubbo Gaol

Major Festivals and Events Gold: Tamworth Country Music Festival Silver: Byron Bay Bluesfest 2023

Festivals and Events Gold: Tumbafest Inc, Tumbarumba Silver: Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail Bronze: Bathurst Winter Festival

Ecotourism Gold: Sydney By Kayak, Lavender Bay Silver: Vision Walks - Eco Tours, Byron Bay Bronze: Kestrel Nest EcoHut, Mt Adrah

Cultural Tourism Gold: Local Sauce Tours, Sydney Silver: Old Dubbo Gaol

Excellence in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience Gold: Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience, Gumbaynggirr Country, Coffs Harbour

Tourism Retail, Hire and Services Gold & Hall of Fame: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Mosman Silver: Camplify, Newcastle Bronze: Ask Roz Blue Mountains

Visitor Information Services Gold: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre

Business Event Venues Gold: Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific Silver: Hyatt Regency Sydney Bronze: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery, Leura

Major Tour & Transport Operators Gold: Moonshadow - TQC Cruises, Nelson Bay, Port Stephens

Tour & Transport Operators Gold: Vision Walks - Eco Tours, Byron Bay Silver: Tweed Eco Cruises, Tweed Heads Bronze: Blue Mountains Stargazing

Adventure Tourism Gold: Balloon Aloft Australia, Hunter Valley, Camden Valley, Mudgee and Byron Bay Silver: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, Mosman Bronze: Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, Coffs Harbour, Gumbaynggirr Country

Tourism Marketing & Campaigns Gold: The Tweed Tourism Company Silver: City of Newcastle Bronze: Destination Wollongong: Warm Up Wollongong

Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Gold: Potager, Carool Silver: Love Lord Howe, Lord Howe Island Bronze: Margan Wines & Restaurant, Broke

Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries Gold: Husk Farm Distillery, Tumbulgum Silver: Courabyra Wines, Tumbarumba Bronze: Cape Byron Distillery, McLeods Shoot

Caravan & Holiday Parks Gold: Tiona, Forster Silver: Tasman Holiday Parks, Racecourse Beach

Unique Accommodation Gold: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat, The Camden Haven Silver: Evamor Valley, Mudgee Bronze: Wilga Station, Bathurst

Self Contained Accommodation Gold: Peppertree Collection, Mudgee Silver: The Drawing Rooms of Berry Bronze: Cedars Mount View, Mount View

4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation Gold: Oriana Retro Hotel & Resort, Orange Silver: The Byng Street Boutique Hotel, Orange

5 Star Luxury Accommodation Gold: Kalinya Estate, Bargo Silver: Mt Hay Retreat, Berry Bronze: Elements of Byron, Byron Bay

New Tourism Business Gold: Contained In Nimbin Accommodation Silver: Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats, Port Macquarie

Excellence in Food Tourism Gold: Love Lord Howe, Lord Howe Island Silver: Food I Am, Wagga Wagga

Excellence in Accessible Tourism Gold: Cocky Guides, Sydney

Local Government Award for Tourism Gold: Central Coast Council - Destination Central Coast Silver: Dubbo Regional Council

Take 3 For The Sea Award For Visitor Litter Prevention Gold: Sydney By Kayak, Lavender Bay Silver: The Observatory Self Contained Apartments, Coffs Harbour Bronze: Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, Anna Bay

Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual Lori Modde

Tourism Star Judges' Award Crank It Up Festival, Batemans Bay

Tourism Star Judges' Award for Sustainability Mt Hay Retreat, Berry

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Business NSW
NSW Tourism Awards

nsw Tourism Awards 2023

Categories & criteria, the nsw tourism awards offer over 25 categories for you to choose from and you can enter as many categories as suits your business type and program rules. , category descriptions, definitions & criteria, 1. major tourist attractions.

This category recognises natural or built attractions that people visit for pleasure and interest. Entrants in this category attract amongst the highest visitor numbers during the qualifying period for New South Wales.

Download questions and criteria

Note: Entrants in this category are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission.

2. Tourist Attractions

This category recognises natural or built attractions that people visit for pleasure and interest. Entrants in this category attract significant visitor numbers during the qualifying period for NSW.

3. Major Festivals & Events

This category recognises tourism leisure festivals, events and exhibitions that enhance the profile/awareness and appeal of the destination they are held in as well as creating economic impact, increased visitation and community involvement.

This category is open to (but not limited to) sporting, arts, historical, cultural, literary, comedy, culinary and general interest festivals, events and exhibitions with local, interstate and international visitor attendance over 50,000 or recognised by the STO as a major event on their event calendar.

4. Festivals & Events

This category is open to (but not limited to) sporting, arts, historical, cultural, literary, humorous, culinary and general interest festivals, events and exhibitions with local, interstate and international visitor attendance under 50,000 or NOT recognised by the STO as a major event on their event calendar.

5. Ecotourism

This category recognises ecologically sustainable tourism businesses with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas. Entrants in this category foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.

Download questions and criteria Businesses entering this category will need to complete the Ecotourism Standards questions. Please note that NSW accepts the Eco Tourism Australia Certification. Once your nomination has been approved, email your certificate to [email protected].

6. Cultural Tourism

This category recognises tourism businesses that foster a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history, heritage and/or the arts.

7. Excellence in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Experience

This category recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism experiences that demonstrate authenticity and cultivate a greater understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history, and traditions.

8. Tourism Retail & Hire Services

This category recognises businesses that sell/provide goods or hire services which contribute to the tourism industry. The contribution made to the tourism industry can be economical (e.g. retail, galleries), experience based (traditionally non-tourism specific experiences e.g. shopping precincts) or service based (e.g. digital solutions for travellers or tourism businesses).

9. Visitor Information Services

This category recognises the consistent delivery of high quality and face to face information services to the visitor. This category is open to Visitor Information Centres/Tourist Offices, Local Tourist Associations and Regional Tourism Organisations.

Download questions and criteria Note: Visitor Information Centres that are not accredited will need to complete the Visitor Information Services standards questions.

10. Business Event Venues

This category recognises venues who provide high quality facilities specifically designed for business visitors e.g. meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

11. Major Tour and/or Transport Operators

This category recognises a business who makes a major contribution in the combined provision of touring and transport services. This category is open to businesses with 15 or more annual full-time equivalent employees.

12. Tour and/or Transport Operators

This category recognises a business who makes a major contribution in the combined provision of touring and transport services. This category is open to businesses with fewer than 15 annual full-time equivalent employees.

13. Adventure Tourism

This category recognises outdoor adventure tourism experiences that involve visitor participation and a personal challenge.

14. Tourism Marketing & Campaigns

This category recognises creativity and innovation in the promotion of tourism products, services and/or destinations. The focus can be for a specific singular or ongoing campaign or ongoing integrated marketing approach delivering innovative marketing/campaigns that supports the promotion of the tourism industry.

This category is open to digital enterprises, Regional Tourism Organisations, Local Tourist Associations, Visitor Information Centres, Online Travel Agents, local government and marketing alliances. This is not for individual tourism products.

15. Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services

This category recognises all restaurants and catering services offering a tourism experience and/or servicing the tourism industry. It is not a food award but does recognise a significant contribution to tourism through the provision of food and beverage. This category is open to hotel or stand-alone restaurants, event caterers, pubs and cafés.

16. Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries

This category recognises wineries, distilleries and boutique breweries that offer a cellar door experience and create a significant contribution to tourism.

17. Caravan & Holiday Parks

This category recognises tourism excellence in a caravan or holiday park. The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience.

This category is open to caravan or holiday parks that offer cabin and tenting accommodation and must meet a 3 - 5 Caravan & Holiday Park Star Rating Standard.

Download questions and criteria Note: Entrants in this category are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission. Businesses entering this category are also required to meet accommodation standards specific to the category. This can be demonstrated via the official Star Ratings OR through a pre-assessment rating.

18. Hosted Accommodation

This category recognises hosted accommodation that offers a bed & breakfast, farm stay, cottage or other intimate accommodation experience and must meet a 3 -5 Hosted Accommodation Star Rating Standard.

Serviced apartments, hotels and resorts should consider entry into one of categories 21-24 which best fit their product. For companies that are managing multiple self-contained properties they should focus on one of their properties.

Download questions and criteria Note: Entrants are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission. Businesses entering this category are also required to meet accommodation standards specific to the category. This can be demonstrated via the official Star Ratings OR through a pre-assessment rating.

19. Unique Accommodation

This category recognises tourism excellence in accommodation providing a unique tourism experience that includes an overnight accommodation experience with an included activity. The focus of this award is on the uniqueness of the tourism experience.

This category is open to properties developed around unconventional accommodation infrastructure that includes an activity (passive or active). Entry is open – but not limited to – tented holidays, houseboats, tree houses, underground accommodation and yacht charters.

20. Self Contained Accommodation

This category recognises tourism excellence in accommodation providing guests with non-serviced accommodation and the freedom of self-sufficiency. The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience.

This category is open to accommodation that offers a self-catered accommodation experience and meets a 3 - 5 Self Catering Accommodation Star Rating Standard.

For companies that are managing multiple self-contained properties it is recommended they focus on one of their properties.

Download the questions and criteria Note: Entrants are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission. Businesses entering this category are also required to meet accommodation standards specific to the category. This can be demonstrated via the official Star Ratings OR through a pre-assessment rating.

21. 3 - 3.5 Star Accommodation

This category recognises serviced accommodation that meets the 3-3.5 Star Rating standard (pre-assessment or final rating). The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience.

This category is open to accommodation experiences that meets a 3 to 3.5 Star Rating Standard in any Star Rating category.

Download the questions and criteria

Note: Entrants are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission.

Businesses entering this category are also required to meet accommodation standards specific to the category. This can be demonstrated via the official Star Ratings OR through a pre-assessment rating.

22. 4 - 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation

This category recognises serviced accommodation that meets the 4 or 4.5 Star Rating Standard (pre-assessment or final rating). The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience.

This category is open to accommodation experiences that meets a 4 or 4.5 Star Rating Standard in any Star Rating category.

23. 5 Star Luxury Accommodation

This category recognises serviced accommodation that meets the 5 Star Rating Standard (pre-assessment or final rating). The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience.

This category is open to accommodation experiences that meets a 5 Star Rating Standard in any Star Rating category.

24. New Tourism Business

This category recognises new tourism businesses that have commenced trading, visitation or service delivery during the qualifying period*. This award recognises excellence in the planning and development of new tourism infrastructure and/or services. Tourism businesses that have commenced a new product or opened new infrastructure need to enter another category most applicable to the business.

*Please refer to the rules and criteria for details on the qualifying period for this award.

25. Excellence in Food Tourism

This category is open to food producers, providores, tour operators, cooking schools, food attractions, farm gate experiences, farmers markets, trails and other food tourism experiences in NSW, featuring NSW produce as the core component.

26. Excellence in Accessible Tourism

This category is open to NSW tourism businesses or attractions delivering tourism products or services that are welcoming for people of all abilities. Entrants must demonstrate how they have developed a tourism experience to become more accessible.

Download questions & criteria Note: Entrants in this category are required to demonstrate that they meet minimum business standards in order to enter the Tourism Awards. This can be demonstrated via relevant accreditation with the Quality Tourism Framework OR as a part of the business standards question set within their submission.

27. Local Government Award for Tourism*

This category is open to all local government authorities and recognises excellence in tourism planning, the provision of tourism facilities and services, marketing, event development and management, and the overall contribution made both locally and overall to the NSW tourism industry.

Please note: This Award is only offered at the NSW Tourism Awards level. Winners in this category will not proceed to the Australian Tourism Awards.

Download questions & criteria

28. Young Achiever Award*

This award recognises an individual, less than 35 years of age, working in the tourism industry and their contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional tourism industry.

29. Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to NSW*

This award recognises the outstanding contribution by an individual to the NSW tourism industry, honouring those who go over and above their own commercial focus to contribute to the broader industry.

30. Take 3 for the Sea Litter Prevention Award

New for the 2023 NSW Tourism Awards, this state-based category recognises businesses who go over and above their day-to-day commercial focus, to prevent visitor litter reaching or remaining in the natural environment.

Eligibility: Entrants must demonstrate leadership, commitment, permission (including empowerment and resources for staff and customers) and an established process.

NSW TOURISM

Awards 2023, we're here to help. email the nsw tourism awards team any time., have questions.

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Arm yourself with a mask, snorkel and fins and explore one of Sydney's 10 aquatic reserves, from Cabbage Tree Bay, Long Reef and Narrabeen in the north, to Gordons Bay, Towra Point and Shiprock in ...
NSW launches 'Feel New' tourism campaign
NSW's new tourism campaign is an open invitation to all to come and feel new in NSW and be transformed by the myriad of energising benefits the state offers visitors. "Feel New" is the compelling promise of New South Wales' new tourism campaign unveiled today to promote travel and tourism to the state. Connecting the abundance of natural wonders and vibrant culture available in NSW ...
NSW Travel Guide
NSW Travel Planning. Our NSW travel guide will help you decide which region, town and cities in New South Wales you should visit on your next trip. We cover the basics of planning a trip and give you a quick rundown on the main tourist regions and the most popular things to do in Sydney and the states other key towns. Regions of NSW. Itineraries.
Destination North Coast NSW
As the tourism agency for the North Coast region, Destination North Coast works with visitor economy stakeholders to drive, coordinate, and support the sustainable management and development of tourism across the region. Our goal is to strengthen and enhance the region's visitor experiences to help sustainably grow the North Coast visitor ...
Destination NSW welcomes two board members
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin has announced two new appointments to the Destination NSW Board. Founder of Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation Clark Webb and Chair of Regional Development Australia Sydney Anna Guillan AM have been appointed for three-year terms. Mr Franklin said the appointments would complement the experience of the existing Board members.
Tourism
Tourism is a major contributor to the NSW economy. The visitor economy supports more than 107,115 businesses and over 296,000 jobs. It is the state's fifth largest employment group, accounting for approximately seven per cent of total jobs. In 2018/19, the visitor economy contributed $38 billion (6 per cent) to NSW Gross State Product (GSP).
2023 NSW Tourism Awards winners announced
The state's peak tourism organisation, NSW Tourism Industry Council, is excited to announce the winners of the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards for 2023. Held this evening in iconic White Bay Cruise Terminal Sydney, over 500 industry representatives gathered to celebrate these outstanding tourism businesses. The awards are managed by the NSW Tourism Industry Council powered by Business NSW ...
Categories & Criteria
26. Excellence in Accessible Tourism. 27. Local Government Award for Tourism*. 28. Young Achiever Award*. 29. Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to NSW*. 30.
Visitor Information Centres
Merino Cafe. Goulburn Area. Drop into the Merino Café, housed in the beautiful historic London House, which was built in 1870. The café offers an array of homemade cakes, good coffee, and a menu offering breakfast, brunch, and l…. Restaurant And Cafe.
Lord Howe Island Act 1953 No 39
View - NSW legislation. period of 5 years that immediately preceded that commencement, (c) resides on the Island and has so resided continuously during the immediately preceding period of 10 years, or. (d) is, on the recommendation of the Board made in special circumstances, declared by the Minister, by order published in the Gazette and for ...