7 Amazing New South Wales Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive
If you have ever wanted to travel the coastline of New South Wales, here is your sign to do so. These seven different day trips will take you through some of the most picturesque, culture-filled towns, breathtaking landscapes, and prime spots for wildlife in all of Australia. Whether you would like to delve into the Aboriginal lifestyle and connection to the land or take an ecologist's perspective and learn about the progressive environment, there are many avenues to spark your interest. Make memories throughout amazing New South Wales day trips, all a short drive from the capital of Sydney.
The Blue Mountains
Full of rich history, the Blue Mountains were once an impassable barrier, but they are currently a significant gateway to the Western portion of New South Wales—and make one of the best day trips from Sydney, the state's capital. The route takes approximately 1.5 hours and consists of hopping on the M4 motorway west and transitioning into the Great Western Highway for 90km. On the drive, there are some fantastic highlights, such as stopping at Glenbrook Village, browsing the available boutique shops, and eating at the Bakehouse on Wentworth.
Lapstone Lookout is nearby and is a 1.7-mile trail that offers sweeping views over the Nepean River. The Blue Mountains have natural landmarks like the Three Sisters at Echo Point, an iconic sandstone formation, and man-made works of art like Scenic World, the world’s steepest railway, or the glass-floored SkyWay overlooking the Jamieson Valley. After a day of sightseeing, Leura Mall is a quaint street lined with trendy boutiques, and galleries and cafes, such as Leura Gourmet.
Kangaroo Valley
Kangaroo Valley, about a two-hour drive from Sydney, is nestled between the Southern Highlands and the South Coast of New South Wales, making it an ideal day trip in the region. To begin, head South down the Hume Motorway (M31) and follow the signage to get to Kangaroo Valley Road—equating a distance of 160km overall. While on your travels, one of the most popular waterfalls, Fitzroy Waterfall, is located in Morton National Park—stop by the visitor center to learn more about the area's ecology and grab a souvenir. Another must-visit is Robertson Pie Shop, a local favorite for savory meat pies since 1961.
Full of history, Kangaroo Valley offers many insights into the past; visit Hampden Bridge, the last surviving wooden suspension bridge in Australia from the 19th century—a local marvel. Continue your walk into the past by visiting Pioneer Village Museum Kangaroo Valley, where you can view restored buildings, historic heritage displays, antiques, vehicles, and artifacts from the early settlers. The Friendly Inn Hotel and the Kangaroo Valley Fudge and Tea House offer two sides of the same coin—delicious food, craft beers, and homemade confectionery that can double as a souvenir.
Bowral and the Southern Highlands
Bowral is known as the main hub of the Southern Highlands and is often referred to as the region's "best-kept secret." This New South Wales day trip takes about 1.5 hours (starting in Sydney) and involves traveling along the Hume Motorway and then taking the Old Hume Highway. Full of unique stops, Bowral and the Southern Highlands will not disappoint. The Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame shares tribute to cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman, and Dirty Janes gives the privilege of exploring rare finds from furniture to art from over 80 different vendors.
Bowral offers insight into country life, and Corbett Gardens is the perfect place to start—one of the area's oldest parks and famous for its tulip displays during its annual Tulip Time festival in September. Mount Gibraltar is a significant landmark and the tallest point between Sydney and Canberra. The nearby Mount Gibraltar Reserve has historical plaques that narrate Bowral's history. Some hotspots within the town include Harry’s on Green Lane, which offers impressive gourmet dishes.
Berry
Berry is a small village about two hours from Sydney by car, but don't let the drive deter you. This small town is formidable and offers all the trimmings of an ideal country town—but with an unusually vast array of things to do for a town its size. This day trip takes you along the Princes Highway (M1), going South for 145km. While traveling, you will discover some key features of the area, such as the Kiama Blowhole, a sea-cliffed cavern carved by ancient volcanic lava—a natural wonder. The four-time generation Treat Factory and Dairy Bar is right in Berry, with perfectly crafted confectionary products like chocolate and gelato.
Berry has a rich farming history that you can learn about at the Berry Museum, with donated records from the local community showcasing the agricultural, dairying, and timber industries. Between Kiama and Nowra is the Seven Mile Beach National Park, which provides calming ocean views, strolls, and birdwatching. Aside from the town's past, its present inhabitants have added their wholesome charm—Berry Donut Van is a local icon of the town, perfecting the perfect cinnamon donut since 1974, and Milkwood Bakery blessing the locals with their organic artisanal bread and pastries.
Jervis Bay
Home to two national parks, Jervis Bay seems to have it all. This three-hour, 200-km drive from Sydney on the Princes Highway to Huskisson is extensive, but it offers an extreme amount of wildlife, coastal views, and heritage—one of the best drives in New South Wales! There are several town stops along the way. Gerrigong has impressive coastal views, and a local favorite lunch spot is The Blue Swimmer. Shoalhaven Heads is another small town offering wine tasting at the Coolangatta Estate—dating back to the early 19th century.
Some highlights on this day trip include Hyams Beach, a well-known holiday destination for its powdery white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, creating a perfect relaxing oasis. One of the national parks in the area, Booderee National Park, has a botanical garden open where visitors can learn about bush tucker, medicinal plants, and the long-associated Koori People, native to the land. Closing in on the end of your day trip, the Pilgrims Vegetarian Cafe contributes to a healthy lifestyle in Milton and is a great spot to get a bite to eat, using only locally sourced produce. The Huskisson Pictures is a historic cinema where you can sink into your chair and catch a family flick.
Mudgee
If you are looking for a coastal escape, a day trip to the town of Mudgee will do the trick. Just over a three-hour drive from Sydney, totaling 260km, Mudgee is a must-see with over 150 years of wine-making history.
History is a running theme in the town of Mudgee. Gulgong's Historic Streetscape centers around preserved 19th-century buildings; paired with the Mudgee Heritage Walk, you will learn the highlights of colonial architecture and local history. In an ode to the local heritage, The Lowe Family Wine Co. lays on the Wiredjuri land—traditional custodians of the area. The Lowe Family keeps traditions alive by continuing the connection to the soil, crafting the finest organic wines. If you need a bite to eat, Mudgee Brewing Co. is a rustic restaurant and microbrewery with live entertainment—a lively experience.
Tilba Tilba
Beneath the foothills of Mount Gulaga is Tilba Tilba, one of two colonial villages near the mountain, which is filled with cheese, wine, art, and nature. You will take the Princes Highway going South for a four to five-hour trip totaling about 365km. Along the scenic drive, you will drive by Batemans Bay, where you can eat fresh seafood and enjoy beachside views, as well as Gulaga National Park. Mogo Wildlife Park allows you to have close encounters with exotic animals and feed them, such as lions and tigers.
In the heart of Central Tilba is a heritage village with several boutique shops and cafes ideal for an afternoon of shopping. If you are in the mood for a hike, Mount Gulaga is a local sacred mountain to walk along while basking in Aboriginal culture. Food is one of the peaks of the trip; Tilba Dairy prides itself on its dairy products, such as award-winning cheeses and artisan dairy. The Dromedary Hotel is a country hotel and pub serving hearty meals for a last stop for a drive home.
Discover New South Wales' Most Enchanting Drives
Each of these best-day trips throughout the New South Wales coastline is more than worth the drive. Each town ticks off almost every box with a mix of heritage, mouth-watering food, and unique boutiques native to each community. From the shimmering waterfalls and lush parks of Kangaroo Valley to the colonial history and architecture of Tilba Tilba, each of these day trips in New South Wales offers something that will fit everyone's list. Enjoy the sand, sun, and sea, as well as the bird's eye view of the local mountains, while you drive along. And who knows? You might even gain a fresh perspective on life after one or more of these enriching adventures.
