New South Wales serves up the best of Australia in one epic state. Think sun-drenched beaches, ancient rainforests and buzzing city life, balanced by relaxed country towns, rugged outback landscapes, snow-dusted mountains and protected World Heritage wilderness. Sydney sets the pace with its thriving cultural scene, world-class food and a skyline that blends bold modern design with historic charm. Just minutes away, iconic beaches like Bondi and Manly, along with five national parks on the city's doorstep, make it easy to swap the city streets for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Beyond Sydney, New South Wales opens up into a state of incredible variety. Follow the coastline north and south for laid-back beach towns, marine parks and surf breaks, or head inland to discover rolling vineyards in the Hunter Valley and dramatic cliffs and waterfalls in the Blue Mountains.
Sydney & Blue Mountains
Sydney packs a lot into one unforgettable city. From the world-famous harbour, Opera House and Harbour Bridge to golden beaches like Bondi and Manly, it’s a place where city buzz meets chilled out coastal living. Ride a ferry across the harbour, wander historic laneways in The Rocks, and enjoy family-friendly fun at Darling Harbour. New precincts like Barangaroo add waterfront dining, parklands and Aboriginal cultural experiences, while coastal walks and ocean pools deliver classic Aussie moments.
Highlights of Sydney & Blue Mountains:
- The beaches: with over 100 beaches in touching distance from the CBD, from Bondi and Manly to Coogee and Bronte, taking a refreshing dip in the Tasman is the perfect end to a busy day sightseeing.
- The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: show your clients the best view over the city with a 360° view of the world's most beautiful harbour.
- Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise: step aboard a 78ft cruiser and watch the sun go down from the top deck, before enjoying a lavish, regionally focussed menu paired with beers, wine or soft drinks. A true bucket list experience!
- The Blue Mountains is a World Heritage-listed area, only 90 minutes west of Sydney. It has ancient rock formations, the spectacular Three Sisters sandstone cliffs, thundering waterfalls, eucalpytus-filled valleys and canyons that are just some of this area’s stunning natural wonders.
- The starting (or end) point of the famous Indian Pacific train journey to Perth, filled with fantastic scenery, unmissable off train experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
Perfect for:
- First-time visitors to Australia: an easy, friendly introduction with great weather and simple add-on options.
- Food and culture lovers: clients will be drawn to the city’s world-class restaurants, markets, galleries and festivals.
- Active travellers: those enjoy surfing, coastal hikes, ocean pools and national parks right on the city’s doorstep.
- Families: easy, hassle free activities and exhibits for children such as Taronga Zoo and Sydney Aquarium.
North Coast NSW
Stretching from Port Stephens to the Queensland border, this region is known for its long sandy beaches, green interior, surf culture and creative coastal towns like Byron Bay. Add in national parks, waterfalls, farm-to-table dining and a warm, relaxed vibe, and it’s a destination that suits travellers looking to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy Australia’s coastal lifestyle at its best.
Byron Bay
- Byron Bay needs no introduction. This sun-soaked North Coast town is famous for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest and free-spirited creative energy.
- The best way to experience Byron is on or in the water! We work with a fantastic kayak tour operator, as well as surf school, so clients can experience the best that Byron has to offer from the crystal clear ocean.
Port Stephens
- Only 2.5 hours from Sydney, Port Stephens offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Full of pristine white beaches and turquoise blue sea, clients can get active on or below the water, and interact with the local wildlife.
- Moonshadow TQC Cruises: give your clients the experience of a lifetime and the chance to see humpback whales! Expect breaches, pectoral slaps, and body rolls, and clients may even spot some dolphins too!
Lake Macquarie
- Lake Macquarie is twice the size of Sydney Harbour, so there’s a lot of water to explore! Clients can't miss out on the largest salt water lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Backed by wild mountains, verdant national parks and lined with its the ideal adventure playground.
Perfect for:
- Nature lovers: whale watching, wildlife encounters, scenic walks and relaxed outdoor exploration.
- Active adventurers: think sand dunes, quad-biking, dolphin cruises and water activities.
Central Coast
Just up the road from Sydney, but a world away from the everyday, the Central Coast is one of those places that instantly slows clients down. Think endless stretches of sandy beaches and Pacific Ocean adventures, balanced by stunning national parks. Add in a buzzing foodie scene, creative community spaces and plenty of culture to soak up, and you’ve got a destination that delivers on every level.
Unmissable Experiences
Broken Bay Pearl Farm
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Discover the magic of pearling at Broken Bay Pearl Farm on the Oyster and Pearl Lovers Tour. Set against the stunning backdrop of Broken Bay, this immersive experience takes clients behind the scenes of a working pearl farm, with guided insights into oyster cultivation and the art of pearl farming.
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Cruise the calm waters of the bay, enjoy freshly harvested oysters straight from the farm, watch a pearl grading demonstration and finish with a visit to the Shellar Door showroom to shop beautiful pearls direct from the source.
Guided Tour of Newcastle
- Clients can get to know Newcastle on this easy-going guided mini-van tour that shows off the city’s coastal beauty, history and local character. From golden beaches to iconic landmarks like Fort Scratchley and Christ Church Cathedral, they'll uncover both the must-sees and a few hidden gems along the way.
Oakvale Wildlife Park
- Travellers can meet and greet both reptiles, koalas and a whole host of other animals, as well as tractor rides, watch wildlife shows and interact with the animals!
Perfect for:
- Clients wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of Sydney but still want to enjoy a whole host of classic Aussie experiences.
- Families: easy access, not to long in the car from Sydney and home to a range of family friendly activities that everyone will enjoy.
South Coast
The South Coast has its own way of doing things: slower, softer and refreshingly unpolished. This is where days stretch out, phones get forgotten and the simple pleasures take centre stage. Think quiet beaches that seem to roll on forever, emerald landscapes, waterfront oyster sheds, cafés championing local flavours, acclaimed wineries and crystal-clear marine parks. Threaded together by a collection of coastal towns, it’s a destination made for easing off the accelerator and settling into the good kind of slow.
Unmissable Experiences
Mogo Wildlife Park
- Tucked between ocean, river and mountains, Mogo Wildlife Park offers a rare chance to connect with some of the world’s most extraordinary animals in a calm, natural setting.
- Home to endangered species like red pandas, white rhinos, lions, tigers and silvery gibbons, the park is designed to give wildlife the space they need and visitors a more authentic, unhurried experience. If clients are exploring the South Coast, this is where unforgettable animal encounters come naturally.
Aboriginal Cultural Kayak Tour
- Glide along the Pambula River on an Aboriginal cultural kayaking tour. Led by a local Indigenous guide, this immersive experience blends gentle paddling with powerful storytelling, sharing the river’s deep cultural significance, traditional knowledge and connection to Country.
- Learn about native wildlife, bush foods and the stories woven into this pristine landscape and experience the South Coast through an Aboriginal lens.
Bay and Bush at Jervis Bay
- A tranquil nature retreat comprised of self contained cottages and safari tents, and only a 7 minute drive from the pristine Jervis Bay.
- There are also numerous experience packages on offer, such as stargazing, relaxation, and adventure.
- A true glamping experience in one of the South Coast's most beautiful spots.
Perfect for:
- Clients who value, space, time and experiences away from the crowds. Those who are willing to try a slice of something new, and prepare to be amazed by the experiences, accommodation and culinary experiences on offer. The South Coast arguably offers the best of everything: authentic Maori experiences, nature, beach time and top quality accommodation.
Hunter Valley
As Australia's oldest producing wine region, the Hunter Valley is a must visit on any budding wine connoisseur's Australian itinerary. Famed for the semillion grape, the region is home to over 150 wineries as well as cheesemakers and product farms. At just 3 hours drive from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is perfectly positioned for a long weekend escape.
Taste of the Hunter
- This is a curated Hunter Valley experience designed for clients who want quality, access and a relaxed pace. Visiting three boutique wineries plus a local distillery, guests enjoy guided tastings of premium wines, craft gin, artisanal chocolate and gourmet cheese, with insider commentary from the producers themselves.
- Behind-the-scenes visits add depth and storytelling, while an included lunch allows time to unwind and take in the vineyard scenery. A well-rounded, easy-to-sell introduction to the Hunter Valley’s food and wine scene, ideal for first-time visitors and short stays.
Sunrise Balloon Experience
- Drift into a magical morning with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the stunning Camden Macarthur region. Soar effortlessly for 45-60 minutes, taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the historic countryside and picturesque landscape. Clients can then land and enjoy a delicious celebration breakfast at the charming Camden Valley Inn.
- Transfers are also available from clients' hotels in Sydney centre, making it the perfect day trip experience.
Picnic Among The Vines
- Clients can settle in among the vines at a winvery and enjoy a laid-back Hunter Valley picnic done right. They can indulge with a gourmet hamper filled with local produce and paired with a bottle of Audrey Wilkinson wine, ready to be enjoyed on the winery’s lush grounds with sweeping vineyard views. It’s an easy, indulgent way to slow the pace, soak up the scenery and taste the best of one of Australia’s most iconic wine estates.
Perfect for:
- Couples: who want a romantic, luxury weekend escape from Sydney with a multitude of experiences to make their stay as memorable as possible.
- Wine beginners who want an easy introduction to wine, and want to experience a heritage vineyard in Australia.
Practical Information for Agents
Driving Tips
Driving in New South Wales is a lot more straightforward compared to other more sparesely populated states, but the usual rules about adhering to speed limits and being careful driving at dusk to avoid wildlife still apply. Furthermore, driving round Sydney isn't advised due to the great public transport system and to avoid getting stuck in traffic!
Sydney Airport → Sydney CBD: 15 minutes
Sydney → Port Stephens: 2 hours 15 minutes
Sydney → Byron Bay: 8 hours
Sydney → Port Macquarie: 4 hours 30 minutes
Sydney → Jervis Bay: 2 hours 45 minutes
Sydney → Pambula: 6 hours
Need To Know
New South Wales offers a diverse mix of coastal drives, wine regions, alpine landscapes, national parks and outback plains all within relatively easy reach of major cities. While areas such as Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the coastal corridors are well developed and straightforward to navigate, travel times can increase significantly in regional and outback NSW. For self-drive clients, planning ahead is important, particularly when travelling inland, where fuel stops may be limited and distances between towns are greater.
National Parks
NSW is home to more than 870 national parks and reserves, many of which are free to enter for day visits. Some parks charge vehicle entry fees, particularly in popular coastal or alpine areas. Camping generally requires a permit, and access to certain locations, such as beach driving areas, alpine regions or remote tracks may require a 4WD and additional vehicle permits. Facilities vary widely, so travellers should come prepared with water, sun protection, suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.
Mobile Service
Mobile coverage is generally reliable in metropolitan areas and along major highways, but can become limited or unavailable in regional, alpine and outback parts of NSW. Clients travelling off main routes should download offline maps in advance and consider basic safety planning. In an emergency, 000 is the primary contact; if mobile coverage is unreliable, the free Emergency+ app can assist by providing precise GPS location details to emergency services.
Booking Advice
While NSW offers a broad range of accommodation options, high-demand regions can book out well in advance, particularly during school holidays and peak travel periods. Areas such as the Blue Mountains, South Coast, North Coast, and popular national park campgrounds often require bookings several months ahead. Early planning is especially important for peak-season stays, alpine travel, coastal holidays and permit-based experiences.
When To Travel
Peak Season
December – February
Summer is peak travel time in New South Wales, driven by warm weather, long days and school holidays. Coastal regions such as the North Coast, South Coast and Central Coast are especially popular, as are outdoor experiences around Sydney. Expect higher demand, limited availability and peak pricing during this period, particularly from mid-December through January.
Shoulder Season
March – May and September – November
These shoulder months are often the best-value travel periods in NSW, offering mild temperatures, fewer crowds and good availability. Autumn and spring are ideal for city breaks, coastal drives, wine regions and national parks, with comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing. With schools in session, it’s a strong selling period for clients seeking pleasant weather without peak-season pressure.
Off-Peak Season
June – August
Winter is considered off-peak across much of NSW, particularly in coastal and regional areas. While temperatures are cooler, this season is ideal for whale watching along the coast, food and wine travel in regions like the Hunter Valley, and snow sports in the Snowy Mountains. Off-peak travel offers increased availability and more competitive pricing, making it attractive for flexible and value-focused clients.
Unique Selling Points
Easy access and infrastructure: NSW is one of Australia’s easiest states to navigate, making it ideal for both guided and self-drive travel. Sydney acts as a major international and domestic gateway, with excellent road networks, regional airports and rail connections extending across the state. Popular regions such as the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, South Coast and Central Coast are all within a few hours’ drive of Sydney.
Food, wine & local produce: NSW has a strong and growing reputation for food and wine, supported by diverse climates and regional producers. Coastal areas are known for fresh seafood, oysters and casual dining with local flavour. This makes NSW particularly attractive for food and wine led itineraries, gourmet touring, couples escapes and small-group travel.
World class coastline and outdoor experiences: With more than 2,000 kilometres of coastline, NSW delivers outstanding coastal travel year-round. From iconic beaches like Bondi and Byron Bay to quieter stretches along the South Coast, clients can enjoy swimming, surfing, coastal walks, whale watching and marine parks. Inland, national parks offer hiking, wildlife encounters and scenic lookouts.
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