New South Wales: Things To Do & Places To See

Welcome to New South Wales! Home to Australia’s iconic city of Sydney, world-renowned sun-drenched beaches and gorgeous national parks and a must-do when travelling Australia. 

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A popular base for exploring greater New South Wales, enjoy the vibrant city of Sydney and cruise one of the most picturesque harbours in the world. Climb the Harbour Bridge or experience a show at the Opera House. Walk the historic area of The Rocks or seek culture at one of the cities museums and art galleries.

 

 

With over 800 beaches, you are sure to find a picture perfect place for a dip or a relaxing day on the sand. From the world-famous beach of Bondi just 20 minutes from the city centre and the iconic white sands of Hyams on the South Coast in Jervis Bay to the relaxed coastal splendours of Byron Bay to the north and many hidden gems, hitting the surf is a quintessential activity when visiting New South Wales. For those wanting to explore on land there are numerous coastal walks. Walk the Bondi to Coogee track between two of Australia’s most popular beaches, take a coastal journey through rainforest, gralssland and beaches up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse or walk through the Royal National Park to the picturesque figure 8 pools.

 

(Photo Credit: Capella Lodge)

 

Just a two hour’s flight from Sydney, land on the tropical UNESCO World Heritage Listed Lord Howe Island. With only 400 visitors allowed at any one time, experience slow paced island life. Feed the hungry fish on Ned’s Beach, climb the mighty Mount Growler for exceptional vistas, snorkel on the edges of the Great Barrier Reef or simply relax in sheer luxury.

 

(Photo Credit: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley)

 

Beyond the Coast and island getaways, lace up your hiking boots in the Blue Mountains, boasting Australia’s largest network for walking tracks through native bushland, only an hour west of Sydney. Take in the views of the Three Sisters, best viewed from Echo Point Lookout or walk to the top via Honeymoon Bridge. Ride the Scenic Skyway gondola, the world’s steepest incline railway for incredible views ending on the valley floor. Explore Jenolan Caves among the 11 spectacular show caves or stay at One&Only Wolgan Valley, Australia’s first wildlife and conservation-based resort and a ‘Luxury Lodge of Australia’.

 

 

If the Blue Mountains doesn’t cut it for the adventurous at heart, NSW features over 800 national parks, meaning there is no shortage of extraordinary landscapes, bushland and tracks featuring short strolls to hiking adventures to uncover. Close to the border of Victoria and New South Wales you can find Kosciuszko National Park, and tackle the climb of the highest peak on mainland Australia, Mount Kosciuszko.

 

(Photo Credit: Hugh Stewart/Destination NSW)

 

For lovers of wine and artisan food, the Hunter Valley makes for the perfect escape. Take a winery tour among the over 100 cellar doors. Eat at fine dining institutions with top chefs or try a handful of specialties from boutique farms and eateries. Be pampered at a day spa or participate in the diverse calendar of festivals and events.

 

(Photo Credit: Indian Pacific Railway)

 

How To Get To New South Wales

As one of the most accessible cities in Australia, Sydney makes for the perfect base to explore New South Wales. There are an abundance of international and domestic flights arriving into Sydney from major cities around the world daily as well as every major Australian city and regional Australia. Why not enjoy a rail journey aboard two of the the world’s most legendary trains, The Indian Pacifc and Ghan from Darwin to Sydney.

 

Find your New South Wales travel inspiration here