Escape the City: Unforgettable Day Trips From Sydney
If you’re in Sydney and looking to get out of the city for a day, there are plenty of exceptional options.
Whether you’re into beaches, bushwalking, or checking out new towns, these trips have you covered. All of them are uniquely different but share a common thread of excellent scenery, fun activities, and exploration.
The excursions are an easy drive from Sydney (about 1 to 3 hours away), so you can leave in the morning and return by evening.
As someone who has spent years in and around Sydney, I’ve narrowed down the long list of day trips to give every type of traveler the best option. We’ve got beaches, national parks, small towns, and a bit of adventure thrown in (the only thing we’re missing is snow).
So, whether you’re a local looking for a change of scenery or a visitor wanting to see more than the city, these locations are worth a deeper dive. Let’s check out some of the best spots you can head to for a day trip from Sydney.
1. Royal National Park
Royal National Park is famous for being the oldest national park in Australia. It’s just a short distance from Sydney and is perfect for people who love the outdoors. There are several activities to choose from, like relaxing at a beach, fishing, or hiking.
Distance from Sydney:
About an hour’s drive south of Sydney. Relatively easy to get to.
Main Attractions:
- Coastal Walks: The park has some of the most beautiful coastal walks around. You can see stunning beaches and rocky shores.
- Whale Watching: We all know Sydney is great for whale watching, but Royal National Park also has many spots along the coast where you can spot them (without the Sydney crowds).
- Wattamolla Beach: A popular spot with a lagoon, beach, and picnic areas.
- Garie Beach: Great for surfing and has stunning golden sands.
Recommended Activities:
- Hiking: There are several walking trails, whether you’re up for a short walk or something longer.
- Kayaking on the Hacking River: A recommended way to see the park from the water.
- Biking: Bring your bike and hit the trails. Check the posted signs to stay on the correct track.
- Picnics: A great date idea; there are plenty of spots to have a picnic with a view.
Ideal for:
Anyone! Families, solo travelers, or groups. If you’re into nature or want to spend a day outside the city, this is your spot.
The Royal National Park is versatile. You can relax at a beach or get active by hiking or kayaking. It also has heritage buildings if you’re into history.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Sydney and want a mix of beaches, trails, and wildlife, the Royal National Park should be on your list.
2. Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is known for having some of the whitest sand beaches in the world. It’s a few hours south of Sydney, and it’s all about beach life, clear water, and relaxation.
Distance from Sydney:
About a 2.5 to 3 hours drive south. It’s a trip, but worth it.
Main Attractions:
- Hyams Beach: Famous for its incredibly white sand.
- Booderee National Park: Good for hiking, walking trails, and seeing local wildlife.
- Whale Watching: Jervis Bay offers a great chance of seeing whales if you’re there at the right time of year.
Recommended Activities:
- Beach, Beach, and More Beach: The beaches are the main draw; they’re some of the best in Australia.
- Walking Trails: There are plenty in the national park, and they’re a nice blend of green spaces and ocean.
- Boat Tours: I recommend hopping on a boat to look for dolphins or whales.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The water is spectacularly clear, making it an ideal spot for seeing fish and other underwater life.
Ideal for:
Beach lovers, families, or anyone looking to embark on a mini-road trip. It’s also good for snorkeling and diving fans.
Jervis Bay is mainly about its beaches. Hyams Beach is talked about because of its white sand (like postcard-type white). The water is clear and inviting. The whole bay area has a lot of beaches, and they’re usually relatively quiet.
Booderee National Park is another spot to check out; it’s got a lot of walking trails. They’re simple, so anyone can do them. You might even see some local animals, like kangaroos or birds.
Jervis Bay is a long drive but a good way to see the New South Wales coastline.
3. Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are a big hit for day trips from Sydney. They’re known for fantastic views and a long list of outdoor activities. It’s mainly about the mountains, forests, and old towns.
Distance from Sydney:
Around 90 km away. About a 1.5-hour drive, or 2 hours if you take the train.
Main Attractions:
- The Three Sisters: The most distinctive sight in the Blue Mountains. These famous rocks prominently stick out of the ground and overlook the landscape.
- Scenic World: Ride a cable car on a steep railway and see breathtaking views of the mountains.
- Jenolan Caves: These limestone caves are ancient; I highly recommend a walk-through of the rock formations and underground river.
- Blue Mountains National Park: A massive park with many spots to explore. Great for camping, hiking, and bike riding.
- Leura: A charming small town in the mountains; nice for a walk down the main street and delicious local food.
Recommended Activities:
- Hiking/Rock Climbing: Many trails and climbing options are in the Blue Mountains. You can pick an easy one or go for something more challenging.
- Discover Plants: The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is an incredible place to see local plants and flowers and take a scenic walk.
- Hanging out in Katoomba: This town has quaint cafes and shops. It’s next to the Scenic World, so I recommend stopping here for a bite before or after.
Ideal for:
Families and day trippers who enjoy nature.
The Blue Mountains are a solid choice if you want a break from the city. It has two distinctive sights you won’t find anywhere else in Australia: the Three Sisters rock formations and the Jenolan Caves, some of the oldest in the country. These alone are worth the trip.
This option is close enough to Sydney to make it easy to get to, but it feels like a different world when you arrive. Good for hiking, sightseeing, or hanging out in a mountain town.
4. Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley is the ultimate Sydney day trip option if you’re a wine lover. It’s a massive region a few hours from Sydney.
However, it’s not just about the wine; it has lovely scenery and immaculate gardens.
Distance from Sydney:
About a 2 to 3-hour drive north of Sydney, depending on where you start.
Main Attractions:
- Wine Tasting: There are several wineries around; I recommend Brokenwood Wines or Pepper Tree.
- Hunter Valley Gardens: Beautifully manicured gardens where you can take a peaceful stroll.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Seeing the valley from a hot air balloon is a wonderful idea for a group or a romantic date.
Recommended Activities:
- DIY Wine Tasting Tour: Drive around and stop at the many different wineries in the region.
- Visiting Cellar Doors: Many wineries have cellar doors, where you can go to the heart of the operation and learn about the wine process (and buy a bottle!).
- Golfing: If you’re interested in golf, Hunter Valley has a few courses in the area, like Rydges.
Ideal for:
Wine lovers, couples, or anyone looking to visit a beautiful location. It’s also great for groups.
Hunter Valley is straightforward, mainly about the wine; you can spend a day hopping from one winery to another. The wine is fantastic, and you’ll learn a thing or two about the process and history of it.
Disclaimer: Don’t drink and drive after visiting the wineries; there are many local hotels where you can stay for a night.
Besides wine, they’ve got delicious local food. Think cheese boards and good meat, charcuterie-style. Some wineries have restaurants, or you can pack a picnic. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even go on a hot air balloon ride early in the morning; it’s the best way to see the valley.
5. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is a stunning beach town near Sydney, famous for its surf, sand, and relaxed vibe. It’s where you go if you want a day at a pristine beach or to walk around a laid-back coastal town.
Distance from Sydney:
About an hour’s drive north of the Sydney CBD.
Main Attractions:
- The Beach: Palm Beach is known for its golden sands and great surf.
- Barrenjoey Lighthouse: Located across from the famous West Head Lookout, you can take a short walk up to this lighthouse for exceptional views of the Pacific. It’s one of the best places in Sydney to spot whales.
- Golf Course: The Palm Beach Golf Club is a 9-hole course with surrounding ocean views.
Recommended Activities:
- Surfing: The waves here are great for surfing, and you have less competition, as Palm Beach is away from the city crowds.
- Beach Walking: I highly recommend walking along the shore; it’s one of the best beaches in the Sydney area.
- Visit Local Cafes: There are lovely cafes in town, including a few very close to the beach.
Ideal for:
Beach lovers, surfers, families, or anyone who wants a laid-back day. It’s also suitable for solo travelers or groups.
The sand at Palm Beach is a dream, and the surf is usually cooperative. It’s a popular spot but big enough to feel manageable.
Palm Beach is an excellent choice for a day trip from Sydney if you want a beach day without hours of driving. It’s good for relaxing, surfing, or enjoying a small-town feel. The drive up the coast is scenic, and you’ll pass many quaint beach communities along the way.
6. Newcastle
Newcastle is a coastal city north of Sydney. It’s known for its beaches, laid-back vibe, and history. It’s a bigger city but still has a beach town feel.
Distance from Sydney:
About 2 hours drive north. Easy to get to, and the drive itself is beautiful.
Main Attractions:
- Beaches: Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach are famous.
- Fort Scratchley: A historic fort with some fascinating history and views.
- The Hunter Wetlands Centre: A wildlife sanctuary with activities suited for nature lovers.
Recommended Activities:
- Surfing or Swimming: Newcastle’s beaches are great for both.
- Exploring the City: Check out the local shops, cafes, and street art.
- Walking the Bathers Way: A coastal walk linking many of Newcastle’s beaches.
Ideal for:
Anyone who likes beaches but also wants a bit of city life. It’s good for families, couples, solo travelers, and history buffs.
The beaches, like Nobbys and Merewether, are big draws. They’re great for surfing or just hanging out.
Newcastle also has a fantastic local food and cafe scene. The city center and places like Darby Street are good for wandering around, grabbing a bite, or just people-watching.
Thanks to its size, it’s got the relaxed vibe of a coastal town but with more to do.
7. Kangaroo Valley
Kangaroo Valley is inland from the coast and is known for its green hills, rivers, and quiet, country vibe. It’s a place to go if you’re into nature and at a slower pace.
Distance from Sydney:
About 2 hours drive south of Sydney.
Main Attractions:
- Kangaroo River: Great for kayaking or just hanging out by the river.
- Hampden Bridge: An old, unique bridge that feels like you’re entering a castle.
- Bushwalking: Near the bridge, the Hampden Bridge Bush Loop is an easy trail that you can finish in less than an hour.
- Local Wildlife: In Kangaroo Valley, there’s a high chance of spotting kangaroos (duh!). Your best chance of seeing them is at sunset.
Recommended Activities:
- Kayaking: The river is perfect for it. Hire one for a couple of hours and become immersed in nature.
- Checking Out the Town: The main town is small but has a classic charm. It has cafes and shops and takes little time to walk.
- Cycling: It’s a fantastic bike riding area with views of nature.
Ideal for:
Nature lovers, families, couples, or anyone looking for a day in the countryside. Good for outdoor activities.
Kangaroo Valley is all about the countryside. The main attraction is the Kangaroo River, where you can hire a kayak. The river is relatively calm, so it also works for inexperienced kayakers.
This is a good option for a day trip from Sydney if you want something peaceful and natural. It’s not about big attractions or anything fancy. It’s more for enjoying the outdoors and taking it easy.
8. Sea Cliff Bridge
Sea Cliff Bridge is part of the Grand Pacific Drive, known for its breathtaking views. It’s a bridge that runs along the coast; you can walk or drive on it. Good for a short trip and photo ops.
Distance from Sydney:
Just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney. It’s pretty close, and the drive itself is scenic.
Main Attractions:
- The Bridge: The bridge’s main draw is its fantastic ocean views.
- Nearby Beaches: Beautiful beaches like Austinmer and Thirroul are nearby.
- Walking Path: You can walk along the bridge, see incredible views, and take photos.
- Bald Hill Lookout: This lookout is not far from the bridge and offers a nice view of the area.
Recommended Activities:
- Driving the Grand Pacific Drive: The drive to the bridge is part of the experience.
- Beach Time: Seeing the bridge itself is a short activity, so I recommend making a beach day out of it. Check out Coalcliff or Scarborough Beach.
- Hang Gliding: If you’re the adventurous type, Bald Hill is a good spot for hang gliding.
Ideal for:
Anyone looking for a quick trip out of Sydney. Good for drivers, walkers, and photography fans.
Sea Cliff Bridge is mainly about the drive and the views. The bridge is a part of the Grand Pacific Drive, a coastal road with lovely scenery. Driving there is a unique experience because you’re hugging the ocean.
It’s a good choice for a day trip from Sydney because it’s easy to get to, and you can make a day of it with the beaches and lookout spots nearby.
9. Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a big area north of Sydney with beaches, a bay, and sand dunes. It’s known for its water activities and is a quiet place to visit.
Distance from Sydney:
Around 2.5 to 3 hours drive north. A long drive, but there’s a lot to do once you get there.
Main Attractions:
- Beaches: Many of them, like Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, have pristine sand and water.
- Dolphin Watching: The area’s known for having many dolphins; book a tour and explore.
- Sand Dunes: The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes are massive and an extraordinary sight to see. I recommend sandboarding or driving a quad bike (pro tip: you may need a permit).
Recommended Activities:
- Boat Tours: For dolphin or whale watching, depending on the time of year. I recommend taking a sunset tour.
- Sandboarding: Sliding down the dunes on boards is fun for all ages.
- Eating Seafood: With its proximity to the water, the local seafood is fresh and delicious.
Ideal for:
Families, couples, anyone into beaches, and those looking for adventure.
Port Stephens is all about the water and the beach. There are many beaches, and each has its feel. Some are good for swimming, others for water sports. The sand is soft, and the water is clear.
If you’re into snorkeling or diving, there are spots around Port Stephens. The water’s got a lot of marine life, so there’s plenty to see.
Port Stephens is a good day trip from Sydney if you want a mix of beach, adventure, and nature. It’s a drive, but there’s enough to do there to fill a day quickly.
10. Brisbane Water National Park
Brisbane Water National Park is a massive park with a lot of bushland. It’s near the Central Coast, north of Sydney. Good for walking, seeing waterfalls, and being in nature.
Distance from Sydney:
About an hour to an hour and a half drive north of Sydney, depending on where you’re going in the park.
Main Attractions:
- Bushwalking Trails: There are many easy trails, some a bit harder.
- Waterfalls: Incredible waterfall options, like Somersby Falls.
- Aboriginal Art Sites: There are places in the park where you can see fascinating and ancient Aboriginal rock art.
- Great North Walk: Part of this big walking trail goes through Brisbane Water National Park.
Recommended Activities:
- Hiking: There are many different trails to choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty.
- Bird Watching: If you’re interested in birds, you can spot a wide range of species.
- Photography: The waterfalls and bushland make for great photo ops.
Ideal for:
Nature lovers, hikers, families, or anyone looking to spend a day away from the busy city.
Brisbane Water National Park is mainly about the bush and the trails. There are a lot of different walking paths; some are easy and short, good for a quick walk. Others are longer and take more effort, which is good if you’re into rigorous hiking.
The waterfalls, like Somersby Falls, are the main draws. They’re impressively eye-catching, especially after it rains.
Overall, Brisbane Water National Park is a good choice for a day trip from Sydney if you want to hike and see waterfalls. It’s close enough to the city to be convenient and perfect for exploration.
11. Morton National Park
Morton National Park is an expansive park with bushland and waterfalls located in the Southern Highlands. It’s inland from the coast, south of Sydney, and great for hiking and seeing natural attractions.
Distance from Sydney:
About 2 to 3 hours drive south, depending on where in the park you go.
Main Attractions:
- Fitzroy Falls: A famously striking waterfall. There’s a scenic lookout where you can stand directly in front of the falls.
- Bushwalking Trails: There are trails for all levels, from easy walks to more demanding hikes.
- Aboriginal Heritage Sites: You can see some rock art and learn about the area’s history.
Recommended Activities:
- Lookouts: Several spots, like Fitzroy Falls and Pigeon House Mountain, have fantastic views.
- Picnicking: There are areas for picnics, like the Pigeon House Mountain Didthul.
- Photography: Morton is a prime photography destination with sweeping views from the lookouts.
Ideal for:
Hikers, nature lovers, families, and anyone who likes the outdoors. Good for a day of adventure.
Morton National Park is mainly about the bush, waterfalls, and lookouts. Fitzroy Falls is the highlight here; there’s a walking path to the lookout for an incredible view. And for history buffs, the park has interesting Aboriginal heritage sites.
12. Hawkesbury River
The Hawkesbury River is a river to the north of Sydney, known for boating and fishing. It’s got a mix of natural spots and small towns along the banks.
Distance from Sydney:
About an hour to an hour and a half drive north, depending on where along the river you’re heading.
Main Attractions:
- Boating and Fishing: The river is about 120 km long, providing ample water-based opportunities.
- Small Towns: Towns like Windsor and Brooklyn are along the river and worth a visit.
Recommended Activities:
- The Riverboat Postman: Journey up the river and deliver mail to areas that don’t have access to roadways. A fun and unique day trip idea.
- Fishing: As the locals do, take a boat or fish from the banks.
- Kayaking or Canoeing: A relaxing yet active way to see the river up close.
Ideal for:
Anyone looking for a day near a river. Good for families, couples, and anyone into fishing or boating.
I highly recommend a river cruise, which gives you a different view of the area, and some include food or drinks.
There are national parks like Ku-ring-gai Chase along the river for nature activities. They have walking trails that are good for hiking or casual walking.
13. Towns in the Illawarra
The Illawarra region, south of Sydney, is known for its coastal towns, beaches, and the escarpment. It mixes nature and small-town vibes with places like Wollongong, Kiama, and Thirroul.
Distance from Sydney:
Most towns are about 1 to 2 hours drive south, depending on which one you’re heading to.
Main Attractions:
- Wollongong: A city with beaches, a botanic garden, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole and scenic volcanic rock formations.
- Thirroul: A smaller town with beaches, coastal walks, and the Illawarra escarpment.
Recommended Activities:
- Beach Time: Surfing, swimming, or hanging out on the sand.
- Exploring the Towns: Each town has its character and unique features, and all are good for wandering around.
- Visiting the Kiama Blowhole: The largest blowhole in the world, this natural feature is seen on the Kiama Coastal Walk.
Ideal for:
People who like beaches and coastal towns. Good for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Wollongong, Kiama, and Thirroul each have their own feel. Wollongong is the biggest and has the most to do.
Kiama is smaller, but I recommend going for the Kiama Blowhole.
Thirroul is even smaller, a classic beach town. It’s good for a day of hanging out by the water.
Overall, the towns in the Illawarra are a good pick for a day trip from Sydney if you’re into beaches and want to check out some different coastal towns. Each has something different, so it’s nice to explore a few if you have time.
FAQ: Day Trips from Sydney
Do I need a car for day trips from Sydney?
A car is necessary for most day trips from the city, especially for the ones further out, like Morton National Park or Jervis Bay. Some options, like the Blue Mountains, can be reached by train.
What are good day trips from Sydney for families?
Beaches like Palm Beach or towns in the Illawarra region have many family-friendly activities. National parks, like Royal National Park, have easy trails for kids.
What if I’m looking for something adventurous?
Try sandboarding at the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes near Port Stephens for adventure near Sydney. The Blue Mountains offer outdoor rock climbing and Scenic World, an adventurous cable car activity.
Can I do a day trip on a budget?
Day trip options like Brisbane Water National Park or Kangaroo Valley are nature-based and inexpensive. However, account for food and petrol money. Activities like wine tasting in Hunter Valley will cost more.
What are the best Sydney day trips for nature lovers?
Check out places like Morton National Park, Royal National Park, or the Blue Mountains for nature. They have great walking trails, natural scenery, and stunning views.
