Day Trips From Sydney
Within a two-hour drive from Sydney, there are several picturesque locations, including the countryside, coast, and mountains. It’s convenient for residents of Sydney to access these beautiful spots.
There are many options for day trips ideas from the city, so it can be difficult to decide where to go first. We have selected some of the best day trips, including visits to villages, beautiful scenery beaches, and mountains.
Located within a two-hour drive or scenic train ride from the CBD, there are several places to explore. These destinations offer stunning views of ocean cliffs, eucalypts, and gums, as well as quaint cafes in sleepy villages. They are all within day-trip distance and highly recommended.
Explore incredible views, and the power of nature at waterfalls and blowholes during your adventure. Consider renting a caravan, campervan, or tiny house for an overnight stay.
Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is located 50 minutes north of Sydney by car. Visitors can enjoy picturesque landscapes and deep-rooted history. Get ready to have your mind blown by the jaw-droppingly gorgeous views of Pittwater all the way to the Central Coast that will leave you breathless at the sandstone viewing area of West Head Lookout. Embark on a journey through the lush Australian bush and uncover the hidden gems of Indigenous culture with the Aboriginal Heritage Walk. Step back in time and witness the incredible rock engravings and handprints created by the talented Guringai people at these historic sites. Discover an aquatic wonderland at the park, boasting a plethora of waterways like the majestic Hawkesbury River, serene Pittwater, and countless creeks and coves to uncover. Visitors can rent a paddle boat from the Bobbin Inn to see more.
The distance to the destination is 43km and can be reached by car. The estimated travel time from Sydney CBD is approximately 50 minutes.
Royal National Park
The Royal National Park offers many opportunities to connect with nature. You can trek along coastal cliffs or through eucalyptus bushlands. Swim beneath the waterfalls in Wattamolla or rent a canoe from the Audley Boatshed and paddle down the Hacking River. You may even spot migrating whales tour from May to November.
Embark on a thrilling journey through the 10km Loftus Loop Trail on your trusty bicycle, and bask in the beauty of nature with a delightful picnic at Ironback Flat or Wattle Forest. The distance is 36km and can be reached by car in approximately one hour from Sydney CBD. Embark on a journey from Central to Otford and witness the world whizzing by in just over an hour for a mere $4.82 with your trusty Opal card!
Blue Mountains National Park
Visiting the Blue Mountains tour is a great way to spend a day. Echo Point has amazing lookouts and there are tracks with Indigenous history. Embark on an adventure through the majestic Grand Canyon track near Blackheath, where waterfalls cascade down sandstone walls and native plants flourish in all their natural glory. The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah has colorful flora. The Glow Worm Tunnel in Lithgow is covered in the bioluminescent glow of fungus gnats. Indulge in a luxurious escape at Echoes Day Spa, where you can unwind with heavenly massages, rejuvenating facials, soothing soak therapies, and tantalizing body wraps.
To reach the destination that is 79km away from Sydney CBD, one can either drive for an hour or take the Blue Mountains line train from Central to Katoomba, followed by a bus from Katoomba to Echo Point for the lookout. The cost of the trip with an Opal Card is approximately $8.44.
Kiama
Discover the quaint coastal town of Kiama and indulge in the irresistible treats at the famous Ice Creamery, all while basking in the charm of the adorable cafés that line the streets. Prepare to be amazed by the natural wonder of the Kiama Blowhole, where crashing waves burst through a rocky crevasse, creating a breathtaking salty fountain that will leave you in awe. Experience the ultimate blend of nature and sport with a round of golf at the rustic course or take a leisurely stroll along the Kiama Coast Walk for breathtaking vistas of verdant cliffs, jagged shores, serene rivers, and secluded beaches. Cycleways connect to surrounding coastal towns for fitness enthusiasts to explore. Embark on a majestic adventure with our exciting activities like dolphin-watching cruises, outdoor rock climbing, and kayaking tours! Book your ultimate experience now.
Take a thrilling 130 km journey from the heart of Sydney and reach your destination in a mere two hours by car! Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Palm Beach
Located on the Northern Beaches, Palm Beach is a popular Australian destination known for its coastal views, sunny weather, and surfing. It’s only an hour away from Sydney’s CBD, making it a great option for a day trips . Visitors can go on a boat charter, play golf at the Palm Beach Golf Course, or kayak in Pittwater before grabbing a bite at the Boathouse. The Barrenjoey Lighthouse offers stunning views from its 91-meter height. Fans of Home and Away can also recognize many filming locations at Palm Beach and the surf lifesaving club.
The destination is located 44km away. It can be reached by car within approximately an hour from Sydney CBD. Hop aboard the L90 bus from Wynyard Station and for just $4.80 with an Opal card, you’ll be on your way to adventure!
Kangaroo Valley
If you want to escape to the countryside, Kangaroo Valley is a good option. Indulge in a sensory journey at Yarrawa Estate Winery, where you can not only sip on exquisite wines but also savor the taste of locally made jams. You can partake in kayaking and horse riding activities with your children in the Kangaroo River and surrounding areas. Prepare to be enchanted by the Victorian charm of the Hampden Bridge and the breathtaking bushland vistas from Mannings lookout. Embark on a culinary adventure with the Flavours of the Valley Foodie Trail, where you can get your hands dirty in gourmet cooking classes, learn the art of gardening, indulge in soap-making, and sip on the most divine high tea experience.
The distance from Sydney CBD to the destination is 156km, which can be covered in about two hours and ten minutes by car.
Port Stephens
Port Stephens, located two hours away from Sydney CBD, offers adventure and scenic views. Oakfield Ranch offers camel rides while snorkeling with dolphins is also an option. Sandboarding Stockton Beach’s largest dunes during the day offers excitement. For a more romantic experience, sandboard during sunset. Port Stephens also offers outdoor rock climbing at sea cliffs overlooking the ocean. Embark on a journey just a mere 179km away from the heart of Sydney and experience the thrill of the road for approximately two and a half hours until you arrive at your destination.
The Entrance
Escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney and discover the enchanting coastal town of Central Coast, just a hop, skip, and a two-hour drive away. The town is known for its community of hungry pelicans that gather for a public feeding every day at 3.30 pm. The town sits along the ocean channel that separates the sapphire waters of the lake from the Pacific. The town has plenty of cafés and restaurants for visitors who want a break from the outdoors. Visitors can fish and prawn at many spots and rent equipment in town. Cyclists can enjoy the 12-km trail along the lake with beautiful views. Bushwalking tracks through Wyrrabalong National Park are easily manageable. During sunnier months, visitors can head over 8km of golden sands at the popular beach. Surf conditions are excellent here all year round. The distance is 110km and can be covered by car in approximately 1.5 hours from Sydney CBD.
Berrima
Berrima is an historic village established in the 1830s, known for its Georgian architecture. The village is surrounded by wineries, boutiques, and centuries-old buildings. Experience the ultimate indulgence with Mrs. Oldbucks Pantry’s irresistible handmade country treats and snuggle up in the Australian Alpaca Centre’s cozy winter knits. And for the ultimate fancy feast, indulge in a fine-dining experience at the historic and heritage-listed Eschalot.
Visitors can spot platypuses by the Berrima River or take a ghost tour at the local courthouse.
The distance to the destination is 125km. The recommended mode of transportation is by car, and it takes just under two hours to get there from Sydney CBD.
Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is located between Sydney and Newcastle and is often only known for its large body of water. However, it has much more to offer for those seeking a break from city life. A trail ride with AAA Horse Riding and More is a recommended activity. You can ride under palm trees, along fern paths, and through gum trees in the Watagon Mountains. Afterward, you can take a private runabout with Jetbuzz Watersports and cruise around the lake.
Embark on a scenic journey through the lush Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and arrive at your destination 127km away in less than two hours!
Stanwell Park
Stanwell Park is located on the northern tip of Wollongong. This is where Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian aeronautical pioneer, first flew in his box kite in 1894. Soar like a bird and feast like a king at the breathtaking Bald Hill lookout, where hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts flock for adventure and outdoor lovers gather for a scrumptious lunch. There’s also a 6.5km walking track of Wodi Wodi and kangaroo feeding at Symbio Wildlife Park. And if all else fails, you can go to the beach for a swim. The distance is 64 km. You can get there by car in about one hour and 15 minutes from Sydney City Centre. Take the train from Central Station to Otford Station for only $4.80 with your Opal card, and you’ll be transported to a whole new world of adventure in just one hour! It takes 22 minutes to walk from Otford Station to Stanwell Tops.
Mermaid Pools
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you trek through the lush bush, dive into crystal-clear rivers, and chase after breathtaking waterfalls to uncover the hidden gem that is Mermaid Pools near Tahmoor Gorge. The journey to the shimmering waters may demand boldness to conquer steep steps and rough terrain, but the awe-inspiring panoramas that await are absolutely priceless. Although the Mermaid Pools may not be the safest for swimming, there are several other swimming holes along the way perfect for a refreshing dip. Stop by the See-Through Pools to admire hidden rock formations underwater. The distance is approximately 100km and it takes around 1.5 hours to reach there by car from Sydney CBD.
The Hunter Valley
Escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney and explore the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens, a popular destination known for its spectacular views, wine tasting, and lush wine region. Located only two hours away from Sydney, the Hunter Valley Gardens is an ideal spot to enjoy nature and take in stunning scenery. The area offers plenty of wineries where visitors can sample some exquisite local wines, or simply take a stroll through the gardens and admire the majestic beauty. Visitors can also explore the Hunter Valley Zoo and take in some breathtaking views from the nearby Lookout Tower. Experience true luxury with a stay at one of the many resorts located in the area, where you can enjoy world-class spa treatments, fine dining, and an array of activities. The Hunter Valley Gardens is truly a paradise for those looking for a peaceful escape from the city.
Newcastle
If you are looking for wonderful views, bushwalking trails, beach lovers, and hiking trails, then Newcastle is the perfect day trip from Sydney. It has it all! From sand dunes to picnic spots and more, Newcastle is one of our favorite day trips.
Bushwalking enthusiasts will love exploring some of the many trails in and around Newcastle. Whether it’s a casual stroll or a more vigorous hike, there are plenty of tracks to choose from. For beach lovers, Newcastle is the place to be. With its stunning coastline and white sand beaches, it’s no wonder that many flock to its shores for some surfing or sunbathing. But if you’re after something a bit different, why not take a journey through the sand dunes? There are plenty of spots for you to set up a picnic or just take in the views.
The Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is a spectacular region located about 90 minutes south of Sydney. This picturesque area is home to a variety of landscapes and attractions, from rolling hills to charming villages, lush vineyards, majestic waterfalls, and more. One can start their day with a visit to Fitzroy Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Here you can take in breathtaking views as well as spot some local wildlife. Other nearby attractions include Morton National Park which offers plenty of trails for hiking, as well as the awe-inspiring Joadja Historic Site. The highlight of the region is definitely Kangaroo Valley. This picturesque valley is home to some of the most spectacular views in Australia and is a great spot for bushwalking, canoeing, fishing, and more. There are plenty of charming villages to explore in the area too, like Robertson and Bowral. Both are full of unique shops and cafes that will make your day trip even more enjoyable!
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FAQ
What are some popular destinations for day trips from Sydney?
Can these day trips be done using public transport, or is a car necessary?
Are there guided tours available for these day-trip destinations?
What types of activities can be enjoyed on these day trips?
How far are these destinations from Sydney, and what is the best mode of transport to reach them?
Most of these destinations are within a two-hour drive or train ride from Sydney. For instance, the Blue Mountains are about an hour’s drive, while Kiama and Palm Beach are around two hours away. The most efficient way to get there depends on the destination; for example, the Blue Mountains can be reached by train with ease, while Kangaroo Valley and Hunter Valley are best reached by car.