8 Most Laid-Back Towns in New South Wales

New South Wales is home to some of Australia’s biggest cities, but also to many of its most inviting small towns that are perfect for a laid-back escape. From charming coastal villages to historic inland communities, these towns will wow you with their mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and all-around charm.

Here’s a look at 8 of the most laid-back towns in New South Wales where you can truly unwind and recharge. How many of these destinations can you add to a road trip in this wonderful southeastern Australian state?

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is located on the extreme northeastern coast of New South Wales. It is a renowned beach town that is a favorite destination for surfers, swimmers, and anyone simply looking to soak up some sun.

Be sure to pay a visit to nearby destinations like the Cape Byron Lighthouse, which in fact stands at Australia’s easternmost point. It is a popular spot for both sightseeing and whale watching during migration season from around May to November. Nature enthusiasts can also explore nearby national parks like Arakwal or enjoy scenic hikes along the coastal walking tracks around town.

Byron Bay is just under a 2-hour drive south of Brisbane, and an even closer journey to Gold Coast, making it a popular beachside locale for city folk in New South Whales.

Mollymook

Many visitors to Mollymook are drawn to Mollymook Beach, a two-kilometer stretch of white sand that has great surf and tons of places to lay out a towel or a chair and simply relax. You will probably be looking for a place to stay the night during your visit too, and the Bannisters by the Sea hotel is a convenient spot by the ocean that is also home to Rick Stein’s famous seafood restaurant, widely considered one of the best places on the coast for a truly gourmet meal.

A popular short trip around Mollymook is to the Ulladulla Rotary Park, where the Bogey Hole, a large natural rock pool perfect for a swim, can be visited. Conjola National Park is another option just north of the town and is known for its walking trails through coastal forests and for kayaking on Lake Conjola.

Golf enthusiasts also flock to this small town. With scenic courses like Mollymook Golf Club and Hilltop Golf Course, you are sure to get some amazing views of both the ocean and the landscape during your game.

Yamba

Situated at the mouth of the Clarence River, Yamba is a haven for those who enjoy fishing, surfing, and many other water-based activities. Its beaches, including the well-known Pippi Beach and Main Beach, are hugely popular locales for residents and visitors alike, while the nearby Angourie Point is especially a favorite among surfers.

For a more land-based outing, the nearby Yuraygir National Park has several trails within its forests along with coastal trails that offer excellent views of the Pacific Ocean. Even closer is Bundjalung National Park, which features several great campsites and even cabins available for rent, making it a fun alternative to staying at a hotel in town.

Bellingen

Bellingen sits almost halfway between Brisbane and Sydney along the coast in the beautiful Bellinger Valley. With a huge abundance of pristine natural land in the region of the country, there are many worthwhile parks close by like the Dorrigo National Park. This national park is just a short drive away and contains a wide variety of trails through ancient rainforests. Make sure to get one of the best views in the park from the Skywalk Lookout. For those who enjoy water-based activities, a paddle along the calm waters of the Bellinger River is a peaceful way to soak in the surrounding landscapes.

In town, community events like the Bellingen Community Markets held monthly, are where local business owners and artisans sell their crafts and local organic produce. The town’s thriving music scene can also be experienced at the annual Bellingen Winter Music Festival, which draws tacts from around the region.

A visit to the historic Hammond & Wheatley Emporium, a restored 1900s department store, may add a touch of history to your trip. Here, you will find a vast array of quality goods, from clothing to furniture.

Berry

Berry, located two hours south of Sydney, is a picturesque town known for its heritage buildings, artisan shops, and tranquil rural setting. One of its main attractions is the Berry Historic Museum, which offers a glimpse into the town’s storied past, from its farming roots to its development as an important regional hub. A stroll down Queen Street will bring you to some of the historic buildings in town like the Berry Museum.

To experience nature in and around this rural area, a visit to Seven Mile Beach National Park is just a short drive away. Birdwatching in the coastal wetlands and hiking are very popular activities here. For another interesting yet beautiful natural destination, the nearby Drawing Room Rocks hike will reward you with sights over the surrounding Shoalhaven region.

Berry is also home to the well-known Berry Country Fair, held monthly at the Showground. Here, local producers and artisans sell everything from homemade jams to handcrafted goods.

Kangaroo Valley

Kangaroo Valley, tucked between the scenic Southern Highlands and South Coast, is a renowned destination for many natural features and historic landmarks. For one, the iconic Hampden Bridge, a 19th-century suspension bridge, is one of the first sights to greet visitors and a key symbol of the town’s heritage. Nearby, you can also check out the Pioneer Village Museum, which preserves the valley’s early settler history with recreated buildings and exhibits.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty to do in the nearby parklands, with bushwalking trails that wind through Morton National Park, and the Fitzroy Falls, a stunning waterfall dropping over 80 meters with surrounding trails that will give you idyllic views of the escarpment. Kayaking along the Kangaroo River is another popular way to explore the valley’s natural beauty with its gentle waters perfect for a relaxing paddle.

Lennox Head

The crown jewel of Lenox Head is Lake Ainsworth, a unique freshwater lake infused with tea tree oils from the surrounding vegetation. The waters of this pleasant lake are known by some for its antiseptic properties, but for many makes for a fun spot to go swimming, kayaking, or picnicking along its shores.

The town is also home to the famous Lennox Point, one of Australia’s top surfing destinations, where experienced surfers can ride some of the longest right-hand breaks in the country. For those less inclined toward surfing, the lookout at Pat Morton Reserve features a number of viewpoints of the coastline and is a popular spot for whale-watching

The nearby Seven Mile Beach is known for its close proximity to downtown Lennox Head, making it a convenient place for those who would prefer not to have to drive to get to a world-class beach.

Braidwood

Braidwood, located just over an hour east of Canberra, is a heritage-listed town rich in history and surrounded by scenic countryside. One of the town’s main attractions is its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, with buildings like the Royal Hotel and the Braidwood Courthouse giving glimpses into Australia’s 19th-century gold rush era. A visit to the Braidwood Museum will provide you with a deeper look into this history, showcasing several exhibits featuring artifacts from the area’s past.

A trip to Monga National Park will demonstrate the region's lush rainforests with its trails and viewpoints, while the Corn Trail, an old bridle track used by early settlers, is a popular hike that takes you through more of the dense forests that symbolize this region of New South Wales.

Kickback in New South Wales

New South Wales can clearly offer something for every kind of traveler. These destinations, from Braidwood to Byron Bay, provide not only an escape from the rush of daily life but also a chance to connect with nature, history, and local communities in a meaningful way. The peaceful atmosphere and slower pace found in these small towns, that you simply can't in bigger cities, may just remind you to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. No matter which of these towns you choose to visit, a relaxing and enriching experience awaits in this southern Australian State.