The 13 Best Weekend Trips from Sydney (A Local’s Guide)

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Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by sydabroad

Need a quick escape from the city? Here are the best weekend trips from Sydney to add to your bucket list. 

Whether you’re looking for a tropical beach escape, a scenic coastal road trip, a cozy stay in wine country, or a weekend full of hiking and beautiful views, there’s something for everyone.

I’ve lived in Sydney for over a year now, and it’s about time I shared more local content, because there really is so much to do in and around this city. While I haven’t personally been to every destination on this list (yet), I’ve explored quite a few, and can confidently say these are some of the best weekend getaways from Sydney. 

Looking for more Australia travel guides?

• The Best Things to Do in Byron Bay
• 10 Amazing Things to Do on Magnetic Island
• The Ultimate Guide to Sailing in The Whitsundays
• A Guide to Surfers Paradise

Keep reading to discover the best weekend trips from Sydney, Australia. 

Summary: Best Weekend Trips from Sydney

Short on time? Here’s the full list at a glance: 

• Jervis Bay — 2.5-3 hours south (best beaches)
• Blue Mountains — 1.5-2 hours west (best nature & hiking)
• Hunter Valley — 2-2.5 hours north (best wine region)
• Palm Beach — 1 hour north (closest coastal escape)
• Bowral & Southern Highlands — 1.5-2 hours south (best countryside)
• Kangaroo Valley — 2-2.5 hours south (best for wildlife)
• Port Stephens — 2.5 hours north (best mix of beach + adventure)
• Mudgee — 3.5-4 hours west (best boutique wine escape)
• Newcastle — 2 hours north (best coastal city)
• Kiama — 1.5-2 hours south (best for whale watching)
• Canberra — 3 hours south-west (best city escape)
• Central Coast (Terrigal/Gosford) — 1.5-2 hours north (easiest quick escape)
• Orange — 3-4 hours west (best for a chill, cozy weekend)

The Best Weekend Trips from Sydney 

1. Jervis Bay 

Distance from Sydney: 2.5-3 hours south

Best for: Beaches, dolphins, relaxing with friends 

Jervis Bay is an absolute gem, just a couple of hours south of Sydney. It’s known for its insanely white sand and turquoise water; it feels like a slice of paradise. 

Hyams Beach is a must-visit; the water is crystal clear, and the sand on this beach is some of the whitest in the world. It’s the perfect place for swimming, kayaking, and spotting dolphins. The water is quite chilly, though. 

I drove down for the weekend with some friends in mid-September. The weather was actually really nice, but the water was soo cold considering we were just out of winter. 

Jervis Bay has to be one of my favorite places I’ve been in Australia. I’ll create a full weekend guide to Jervis Bay soon, but it’s the perfect place to spend the weekend relaxing with friends, enjoying delicious bakeries, and getting a nice break from the city. 

Top things to do

• Visit Hyams Beach, Greenfield Beach, and Murrays Beach.  
• Go dolphin or whale watching (this is best between May and November) 
• Explore Booderee National Park 
• Paddleboard or kayak in the bay
• Pick up pastries from one of the bakeries in Huskisson

How to get to Jervis Bay from Sydney 

Driving will be the easiest option, around 2.5 hours. You can also take the train to Bomaderry (Nowra), then a short taxi or Uber from there. However, I suggest having a car. It will make your life so much easier, especially for getting around to different beaches. 

Pro-tip: Every time my friends and I have needed to rent a car, we’ve always gotten it from Turo, and it’s been a great experience every time.

Where to stay in Jervis Bay 

Airbnb: My go-to recommendation, especially if you’re going with a group or family. There are some lovely houses near the beach in Huskisson and Vincentia that are perfect for a weekend. Being able to cook, store food, and have your own space is such a plus.

Boutique stays: If you want something a bit more special, look for boutique options around Vincentia — there are some really lovely spots with beautiful garden settings close to the water. Find a place to stay near Jervis Bay here. 

2. Blue Mountains 

Distance from Sydney: about 1.5-2 hours west

Best for: Hiking, scenic views, nature lovers

The Blue Mountains is one of the most popular nature escapes in New South Wales. It’s known for its dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls. It’s ideal for hiking, scenic views, and cozy cabin stays. 

You technically can do this as a day trip, but if you have the time, you should stay overnight. I first visited the Blue Mountains as a day trip with GetYourGuide, and it was great to get a little taste of what the Blue Mountains have to offer. 

But next time, it would be good to stay a bit longer to enjoy different hikes and viewpoints around the area. 

Top things to do in the Blue Mountains 

• See the Three Sisters at Echo Point 
• Hike Wentworth Falls or National Pass 
• Visit Scenic World (they have a glass-bottom cable car. Amazing views) 
• Explore Leura village for cute cafes and boutiques

How to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

Drive about 1.5–2 hours, or take a direct train from Central Station to Katoomba. The train is actually a great option if you don’t want to drive; Katoomba is very walkable, and most of the main sights are easy to get to on foot or by local bus.

If you do want to book a day trip to the Blue Mountains from Sydney, I highly recommend this tour with GetYourGuide!

Where to stay in the Blue Mountains

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley: If you’re looking for a splurge, this is it. A luxury eco resort set in a private nature reserve about 30 minutes north of Lithgow. Think heritage cottages, private plunge pools, and guided wildlife experiences. It’s absolutely stunning. Check availability here. 

3. Hunter Valley 

Distance from Sydney: About 2-2.5 hours north.

Best for: Wine lovers, couples, relaxed weekends 

If you love wine, this is the weekend trip from Sydney that you need to take. Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region, famous for its Semillon, Shiraz, and beautiful vineyard views. 

This is another one you can do as a day trip from Sydney, but staying overnight makes it way more relaxing. Again, I visited Hunter Valley for the first time as a day trip with GetYourGuide — I’ve linked the tour here if it’s something you’re interested in doing. 

I did have such a great time, but if you can, I suggest staying a night or two to really enjoy all that Hunter Valley has to offer. There are so many vineyards to explore, it’s a fun place to visit!  

Top things to do in Hunter Valley

• Wine tasting, of course! 
• Watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon over the vineyards 
• Cheese and chocolate tasting 
• Spa day or lounge at the vineyards 
• Visit the Hunter Valley Gardens, especially beautiful in December, for their light show

How to get to Hunter Valley from Sydney 

Driving is the easiest option. If you’d rather not drive (so you can actually enjoy the wine tasting!), there are plenty of day tours and overnight tours that depart from Sydney — this is honestly a great option for a group. 

Check out tours in Hunter Valley here! 🍷

Where to stay in Hunter Valley

Boutique vineyard stays: Many of the vineyards have their own accommodation right on-site, which makes the whole experience so much better. Waking up surrounded by vines with a glass of wine in hand is pretty hard to beat.

Spa resorts: There are several luxury spa resorts in the region that are perfect for a couple’s weekend. Think pool villas, day spas, and long lunches.

Find a place to stay in Hunter Valley here.

4. Palm Beach 

Distance from Sydney: About 1 hour north 

Best for: A quick coastal escape, lighthouse walks, beach days

Palm Beach is the perfect weekend escape if you don’t want to travel too far from Sydney. Just an hour north of the city, it’s a beautiful, relaxed beach town. Something unique about Palm Beach is that you can surf on one side and swim in the calm water on the other. It’s the perfect place for anyone to enjoy! 

It’s also got this special, almost tucked-away feel compared to the busier beaches closer to the city. The walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse is a must. The views from the top are genuinely stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Top things to do in Palm Beach

• Hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for the amazing views
• Swim at Palm Beach or surf at Surf Beach on the ocean side
• Take a ferry to Ettalong or Patonga for a waterfront lunch
• Explore the rock pools and coastal walking tracks

How to get to Palm Beach from Sydney 

Drive about 1 hour north along the Northern Beaches; the drive itself is beautiful. You can also take public transport, but a car makes it easier to explore.

Where to stay in Palm Beach 

• Jonah’s Boutique Hotel: A beautiful cliffside boutique hotel with incredible ocean views. The restaurant here is also fantastic, very much worth a long lunch even if you’re not staying overnight. Check availability here. 
• Barrenjoey House: A classic Palm Beach option, it’s casual, charming, and perfectly located. Great vibe for a relaxed weekend. Check availability here. 

5. Bowral & Southern Highlands 

Distance from Sydney: About 1.5-2 hours

Best for: Cozy countryside weekends, wine, antiques, autumn foliage

Looking for something a little slower-paced? The Southern Highlands is your answer. Think rolling green hills, vineyard lunches, antique stores, and cozy cafes. It’s genuinely one of the most charming areas within easy reach of Sydney.

Bowral is the main town and a great base, but you should also visit the surrounding areas like Berrima and Mittagong. This area is especially beautiful in autumn (April–May) when the leaves change colors.

Top things to do in Bowral & the Southern Highlands

• Visit the local wineries and cellar doors around Sutton Forest and Exeter
• Browse the boutiques and antique stores in Berrima
• Walk to Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park
• Have a long lunch at one of the Southern Highlands’ excellent restaurants
• Visit during the Tulip Time festival in September for incredible gardens

How to get to the Southern Highlands from Sydney

Drive about 1.5–2 hours south via the Hume Highway. You can also take a train from Sydney to Moss Vale, but having a car is recommended for getting around the different villages.

Where to stay in Bowral

Berida Hotel: A well-known spot in Bowral with beautiful gardens and a classic country house feel. Perfect for a relaxed weekend. Check availability here.

Milton Park Country House Hotel & Spa: A stunning country house hotel set in gorgeous gardens, with a full-day spa. Check availability here.

Osborn House: A charming boutique B&B in a heritage-listed homestead. Lovely personal touches and a great location in town. Check availability here.

6. Kangaroo Valley

Distance from Sydney: About 2-2.5 hours south

Best for: Wildlife, kayaking, a peaceful nature reset

Kangaroo Valley is a small town in New South Wales, just about two and a half hours from Sydney. It’s one of the most scenic getaways surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. You can spend the weekend spotting wild kangaroos and kayaking on the river. Perfect for those who need a nice chill weekend reset.

Top things to do in Kangaroo Valley

• Spot wild kangaroos
• Kayak or canoe on the Kangaroo River
• Visit Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park (about 20 minutes away)
• Walk across Hampden Bridge — one of the oldest suspension bridges in Australia
• Explore the local cafes and art galleries in the village

How to get to Kangaroo Valley from Sydney

Drive about 2–2.5 hours south. You’ll pass through Bowral and Moss Vale on the way, so this is a great spot to combine with a Southern Highlands stop.

Where to stay in Kangaroo Valley

• The Laurels B&B: A lovely, intimate B&B in the heart of the valley. Peaceful, beautiful gardens, and that proper country hospitality feel. Check availability here.
• Bangalay Luxury Villas: Set in nature, these self-contained villas are perfect for a romantic getaway. Beautifully designed with private outdoor areas and stunning surroundings. Check availability here.

7. Port Stephens 

Distance from Sydney: 2.5 hours north

Best for: Beach + adventure, sandboarding, dolphins

Port Stephens is hands down one of my favorite places I’ve visited in Australia. It genuinely has everything: crystal-clear calm water, massive sand dunes that literally meet the ocean, incredible marine life, scenic hikes, and cute boutiques in Shoal Bay.

My friends and I did a camping trip here, and it was an absolute blast. Whether you want to relax at the beach, go sandboarding in Anna Bay, spot dolphins on a cruise, or try some snorkelling, there is seriously so much to do. I have a full Port Stephens weekend guide coming soon, so keep an eye out!

Top things to do in Port Stephens

• Sandboarding at Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in Anna Bay (this was soo fun!)
• Dolphin watching cruise through the bay
• Relax on Shoal Bay or One Mile Beach
• Snorkelling or scuba diving
• Browse the boutiques and grab lunch in Shoal Bay village
• Hike up to Tomaree Head Lookout for incredible panoramic views

How to get to Port Stephens from Sydney

Drive about 2.5 hours north via the Pacific Motorway. Having a car is useful for getting between the beaches, the dunes, and Nelson Bay.

Where to stay in Port Stephens

Melaleuca Surfside Backpackers: This is where we camped, and it was perfect. You can bring your own tent or stay at their cabins. There are communal showers, toilets, and even a kitchen.

Bannisters Port Stephens: A gorgeous, design-forward boutique hotel right on the waterfront. One of the nicest stays in the region and a great restaurant too.

The Anchorage Hotel & Spa: Set right on Corlette Point with beautiful water views, a full day spa, and a great restaurant. Perfect for a more relaxed, indulgent weekend.

8. Mudgee

Distance from Sydney: About 3.5-4 hours

Best for: Boutique wineries, slow travel, foodies

Mudgee is a bit further than Hunter Valley, but that’s also what makes it so special. It’s quieter, more local, and has a nice, slow pace that Hunter Valley can sometimes lose on busy weekends. The wine region here is excellent, and the food scene has grown a lot in recent years.

If you want a wine weekend that feels a little more off the beaten track and intimate, Mudgee is the perfect spot. The cellar doors are smaller and more personal, the accommodation is beautiful, and you’ll feel like you’ve really gotten away.

Top things to do in Mudgee

• Wine tasting at the boutique cellar doors
• Long lunches at the vineyard restaurants
• Visit the Mudgee Farmers Market (held monthly) for local produce
• Explore the heritage main street and browse the local shops

How to get to Mudgee from Sydney

Drive about 3.5–4 hours north-west via Lithgow. You can also fly into Mudgee Airport from Sydney; it’s a short flight and worth it if you’d rather not drive the distance.

Where to stay in Mudgee

Sierra Escape (glamping): Luxury glamping in the Mudgee hills; the perfect balance of nature and comfort. One of the coolest stays in the region.

9. Newcastle 

Distance from Sydney: About 2.5 hours

Best for: Beach hopping, coastal walks, great food and bar scene

Newcastle has had a glow-up in recent years and is now widely considered one of the coolest coastal cities near Sydney. Beautiful beaches, a buzzing food and bar scene, great coastal walks, and an increasingly cool arts and culture scene. It’s definitely worth a weekend.

Newcastle Beach, Bar Beach, and Merewether Beach are all easy to walk between, and the ocean baths at Merewether are a Sydney icon that you have to visit. The city centre has lots of excellent restaurants, wine bars, and cafes that could easily fill a whole weekend.

Top things to do in Newcastle

• Swim at Merewether Ocean Baths
• Walk the Bathers Way coastal track from Merewether to Nobbys Beach
• Explore the Hunter Street restaurant and bar scene
• Visit the Newcastle Museum
• Day trip to nearby Maitland or the Hunter Valley wineries

How to get to Newcastle from Sydney

The train from Central Station is a great option — around 2.5 hours and drops you right in the city centre. Driving is about 2 hours. The train is actually really convenient here since Newcastle’s highlights are walkable.

Where to stay in Newcastle

QT Newcastle: Stylish, design-forward hotel right in the city centre. Great rooftop bar, excellent restaurant, and perfectly located for exploring on foot.

Crystalbrook Kingsley: A beautiful property with a great rooftop pool. Perfect location near the waterfront.

10. Kiama

Distance from Sydney: About 1.5–2 hours south

Best for: Coastal scenery, blowhole, whale watching

Kiama is one of those quiet, beautiful coastal towns that doesn’t always make the top of Sydney’s weekend trip lists, but it should. It’s known for its famous blowhole (one of the largest in the world), stunning coastal scenery, and a really relaxed pace.

During whale season (June to November), this part of the NSW coast is one of the best spots to see whales from land. It’s also a great base for exploring the broader Kiama Coast Walk and the nearby Seven Mile Beach.

Top things to do in Kiama

• Watch the Kiama Blowhole in action.
• Walk the Kiama Coast Walk for beautiful cliff-top views
• Go whale watching (June–November is peak season)
• Swim at Surf Beach or the ocean pool
• Visit the Kiama Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings

How to get to Kiama from Sydney

The train from Central Station is easy and takes about 2 hours; it’s one of the most scenic train rides from Sydney. Driving takes around 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic.

If you are looking for a day tour from Sydney to Kiama, check this one out on GetYourGuide.

Where to stay in Kiama

The Sebel Kiama Harbourside: A hotel right on the harbour with great views and a good restaurant. A solid choice for a comfortable Kiama weekend.

Novo Kiama: A boutique hotel with a modern, design-forward feel right in the heart of town. Great location, stylish rooms, and an excellent restaurant downstairs.

11. Canberra

Distance from Sydney: About 3 hours south-west

Best for: Culture, history, food, a city break

Canberra might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re thinking about weekend trips from Sydney, but hear me out, it’s actually a really underrated getaway. As Australia’s capital city, it has a great mix of national history, world-class galleries and museums, an excellent restaurant scene, and some beautiful natural surroundings.

The food and coffee scene in Canberra has really levelled up in recent years, and the National Gallery of Australia has an incredible collection that alone is worth the trip. If you want a bit of a cultural city break without going too far, Canberra is a great spot.

Top things to do in Canberra

• Visit the Australian War Memorial
• Explore the National Gallery of Australia
• Walk or cycle around Lake Burley Griffin
• Visit the National Arboretum for great views over the city
• Explore the local restaurant scene (Braddon and New Acton are great neighbourhoods)
• Day trip to nearby Murrumbateman or Canberra wine region

How to get to Canberra from Sydney

Drive about 3 hours via the Hume Highway, or fly, it’s only a 50-minute flight from Sydney. You can also take a FlixBus, which is surprisingly comfortable. I took FlixBus all around Europe. 

Where to stay in Canberra

Hotel Realm: A more classic, upscale option in the parliamentary triangle with a great pool and multiple excellent restaurants on-site.

12. Central Coast (Terrigal & Gosford)

Distance from Sydney: About 1–1.5 hours north

Best for: The easiest quick escape, beach vibes, families

The Central Coast is hands down the easiest weekend trip from Sydney, and one of the most underrated. Terrigal, Avoca Beach, Gosford, and the surrounding areas all have that laid-back beach town feel, great cafes, and beautiful scenery without requiring a big commitment in travel time.

Terrigal in particular has a great strip of restaurants and bars right near the beach, which makes it perfect for a casual, fun weekend. The Skillion is a headland walk worth doing for the views — and if you time it right, the sunsets here are amazing.

Top things to do on the Central Coast

• Walk up The Skillion at Terrigal for ocean views
• Swim at Terrigal Beach or the calmer Avoca Beach
• Explore Bouddi National Park for great coastal walks
• Visit the Australian Reptile Park near Gosford
• Check out the bar and restaurant strip in Terrigal Haven

How to get to the Central Coast from Sydney

Drive about 1–1.5 hours north, or catch a train from Central to Gosford (about 1.5 hours). If you’re heading to Terrigal specifically, the drive is easiest. You can also take the train to Tuggerah and Uber from there. When I visited from Sydney, I took the train from the city straight to Gosford, and it was actually so nice and easy.

Where to stay on the Central Coast

Voco Gosford: A nice waterfront hotel right on Brisbane Water in Gosford. Good value with great water views and easy access to the rest of the Central Coast. I got to stay here and attend their launch party when the property first opened, and this place is incredible. Such a nice property with a beautiful pool and amazing rooms. 

Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific: The best-located hotel in Terrigal, it’s right on the beachfront with great views, a pool, and an excellent restaurant. A reliable, comfortable option.

13. Orange 

Distance from Sydney: About 3.5–4 hours west

Best for: Wine, food, cool-climate vineyards, a slower pace

If you’re into wine, farm-to-table restaurants, and a laid-back vibe, Orange is the place to go. It’s about 3 to 4 hours west of Sydney and the perfect little country town getaway where you can enjoy vineyard views, delicious food, great coffee and a slower pace. 

Top things to do in Orange

• Wine tasting at Printhie Wines — one of the most prestigious cellar doors in the region, with stunning views
• Long lunch at The Schoolhouse Restaurant inside the heritage-listed Union Bank Hotel
• Visit Small Acres Cyder for something a little different
• Explore the boutique shops and Dirty Janes vintage market in town
• Drive out to Mount Canobolas for views over the Central West
• Browse the local produce at the Orange Farmers Market

How to get to Orange from Sydney

Driving takes just under four hours heading north-west via the Great Western Highway, or you can fly with Rex or Qantas in about 50 minutes. If you fly, just note that Ubers can be hit or miss in Orange, so it’s worth hiring a car on arrival — you’ll want one to get between the wineries anyway.

Where to stay in Orange

Basalt Orange: A gorgeous luxury glamping option on a family-run cherry orchard, with three beautifully designed lodges featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors, king beds, and deep stone baths overlooking Mount Canobolas. Seriously stunning.

Oriana Hotel: A retro-chic boutique hotel in town with a great vibe and The Peacock Room restaurant on-site. A really fun stay right in the heart of Orange.

FAQs: Weekend Trips from Sydney

What are the best beach weekend trips from Sydney?

Port Stephens, Jervis Bay, and Palm Beach are easily the top three. Jervis Bay has the most stunning white sand and turquoise water (it genuinely looks Caribbean), Port Stephens has the added bonus of sand dunes and dolphins, and Palm Beach is your closest option for a quick beach escape without the long drive.

What are the best nature and mountain getaways from Sydney?

The Blue Mountains is the obvious answer: dramatic cliffs, epic hikes, and incredible views. If you want something more peaceful and off the beaten track, Kangaroo Valley is a beautiful alternative with rolling hills, wildlife, and zero crowds. The Southern Highlands is also great if you want countryside charm mixed with wineries and cafes.

What are the best wine regions near Sydney?

Hunter Valley is the most famous and the best choice for a first-time visit. There are lots of cellar doors, great restaurants, and accommodation options right in the valley. For something more boutique and intimate, Mudgee is wonderful. It’s further away but feels much quieter and less touristy.

Where should I go for 2 nights from Sydney?

Honestly, any destination on this list works perfectly for two nights. My top picks specifically for a two-night trip would be Jervis Bay, Port Stephens, or Hunter Valley — all have enough to fill two full days without feeling rushed.

What’s the best long weekend trip from Sydney in NSW?

For a long weekend, you have more flexibility to travel further. Jervis Bay is perfect if you want beach time and national park exploring. Port Stephens is great for something more active. Hunter Valley or Mudgee are ideal for a food and wine long weekend. The Southern Highlands is always great for something slower-paced and scenic.

What’s the best weekend getaway within 1 hour of Sydney?

Palm Beach and Terrigal (Central Coast) are your best options for keeping the drive short. Palm Beach has a more exclusive, scenic feel, while Terrigal/Gosford has a livelier beach town vibe with more restaurants and bars. Both are genuinely worth it even for a quick overnight trip.

What are the best weekend trips from Sydney by plane?

If you’re open to flying, the options open up a lot. Byron Bay is under an hour and perfect for a beach and wellness weekend. The Gold Coast is great for something more lively. Melbourne is about 1.5 hours and makes a fun city escape. All three are easy weekend trip destinations from Sydney Airport.

Can I do these as day trips from Sydney?

Many of them, yes. I’ve done the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley as day trips myself. But for most of these destinations, I’d strongly recommend staying at least one night. You’ll spend less time driving, more time actually enjoying the place, and you won’t feel like you’re rushing back before dark. If you have the time, always stay overnight. However, I will say Palm Beach is quite close and does make for a wonderful day trip from Sydney. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’ve got one night or a whole long weekend, New South Wales has some genuinely incredible options within easy reach of Sydney. From white sand beaches and wine country to dramatic mountain hikes and charming country towns, there really is something for everyone on this list.

Some of my favorite memories from my time in Australia have been on these weekend trips, and I’m still working through the list myself!

If you have any questions about visiting Sydney or any of these destinations, comment below or DM me on Instagram at @sydabroad_!

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