Where Can I Go For A Weekend Getaway Near Sydney?

Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and it is home to several intriguing attractions; but, even the most devoted city dwellers occasionally need to get out of the city for the weekend.

The good news is that there are numerous potential weekend getaways within a reasonable driving distance of Sydney. The city is conveniently close to a wide variety of natural wonders, including those on the list of World Heritage Sites, as well as quaint rural communities, mountaintops, verdant valleys, and sandy beaches. There are several affordable weekend vacations that feature kid-friendly activities.

Our list of the best weekend escapes from Sydney is sure to provide inspiration, whether you're looking for a family-friendly destination, a romantic hideaway, a road trip adventure, or a short break for yourself.

Sydney is a beautiful city regardless of the time of day. On the other hand, you've come to the correct place if you want to spend a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney in rural New South Wales. If you're looking for a luxurious weekend vacation from Sydney, go no further than our curated choice of the greatest weekend getaways in New South Wales.

All of these five-star hideaways are easily accessible from Sydney and offer a peaceful weekend break.

Sydney's Best Weekend Getaways

It's been over a year since We compiled the first set of Sydney vacations, right before we were released to go on our first trip.

While many Sydneysiders may be tempted to take a trip to Byron Bay, one of the finest things that has come out of the past year has been the realisation of how much fun can be had right in one's own backyard.

To that end, we've updated our 2021 guide to weekend trips from Sydney with suggestions for new hotels, restaurants, and attractions that are all less than a three-hour drive from the city. If you're eager to skip to the exciting city getaway that most interests, you.

Alternatively, read as many as possible to broaden your perspective. If you're looking for a weekend break from Sydney, here are the greatest options, whether you have time for an overnight trip or not.

The Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains, located approximately an hour outside of the central business district, are an excellent choice for those seeking a dose of nature and beautiful panoramas. During the summer, when temperatures in Sydney tend to soar and the air at higher altitudes is noticeably cooler, this is one of the most popular last-minute weekend getaways for Sydney residents.

Snowfall is a possibility in the winter, and that means more time for lovers to spend together in front of a warm fire in a log cabin.

In the stunning Blue Mountains National Park, you can take in the eucalyptus-scented air, marvel at the mist-cloaked Three Sisters rock pinnacles, hike the park's strong array of trails, learn about plants that thrive in cool climates at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, and discover quaint mountain villages stocked with art galleries, and tea houses.

You may view the park's natural treasures from above on the glass-floored Scenic Cableway, the Scenic World Skyway, or the world's steepest railway that winds through a tropical jungle. There are also a variety of waterfalls, animals, and vantage points to explore. The convenience of the train makes it one of the few weekend trips possible from Sydney.

Taste 

The Leura Garage is a multi-award-winning restaurant, café, and bar in Leura, New South Wales, Australia, providing delicious, sustainably sourced food. Mayfield Garden is the largest cool climate garden in the Southern Hemisphere, and its restaurant serves locally grown vegetables, fruit, lamb, and beef.

A popular spot in Blackheath, the Victory Café serves both traditional breakfast fare and lunch specialities that change with the seasons. Take some time to browse the antique centre that occupies the same old Art Deco building as the enormous Jenny Kee painting painted on its side.

South Coast and Jervis Bay

It's open knowledge. The Shoalhaven region on the South Coast is often regarded as some of the nicest beaches in New South Wales. Located about 3 hours south of Sydney, in Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach is widely regarded as one of Australia's most picturesque beaches.

If you're looking for somewhere to spend a weekend in the summer, this one has the softest, dazzling blue sea and the whitest sands in the world.

Stunning coastlines abound, but Hyams isn't the only one. Other popular options include Huskisson, Murrays Beach, and Steamers Beach.

The bushland around Booderee National Park is laced with hiking trails, while other popular activities include kayaking, dolphin and whale-watching excursions, fishing, boating, scuba diving, and stand-up paddleboarding in Jervis Bay Marine Park.

If you're driving south from Sydney, make a pit stop in Kiama to check out the blowhole and breathe in the sea air.

If you travel farther south from Jervis Bay, you may go surfing at Mollymook Beach, see wild kangaroos in Murramarang National Park and bask in the sun on Pretty Beach, which lives up to its name.

Bannisters by the Sea is a luxury oceanfront resort in Mollymook, Australia, featuring a vanishing edge pool, a luxurious day spa, and a highly acclaimed seafood restaurant by celebrity chef Rick Stein.

Taste 

The glamping experience at Paperbark Camp may be had without actually staying there. The Gunyah is an elevated restaurant hidden in the treetops where you can enjoy dishes like lamb rump with pea hummus, almonds, feta, and coriander on a rotating daily set menu. However, only a small number of tables are set aside for visitors from outside the establishment; to guarantee a spot, make your reservation as far in advance as possible.

Port Macquarie

It is not necessary to spend the night at Paperbark Camp in order to experience the luxuries they offer. The Gunyah is a restaurant perched amid the woods, where you can enjoy a set menu featuring items. However, only a small number of tables are set aside for visitors from the outside, so make your reservations early.

North and south of the bustling tiny town are stretches of pristine beach where you can ride camels. Popular spots include Flynn's Beach, Shelly Beach, and  Nobby's Beach.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk at Sea Acres National Park is a wonderful way to see the coast, and it is possible to divide the walk into several shorter segments if you are travelling with children or are short on time. Tacking Point Lighthouse and North Brother peak in Dooragan National Park both offer stunning vantage points over the surrounding area and may be reached through a short stroll.

The town's location at the Hastings River's mouth makes for some of the best fishing in the area. Participate in a deep-sea fishing excursion, try your luck casting a line from the pier, and don't leave town without trying some of the seafood served at the many fine restaurants.

One of the highest concentrations of wild koalas on the East Coast can be found in Port Macquarie. Kids will have a blast visiting the Koala Hospital and wandering the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail after picking up a trail map at the visitor centre.

Weekend trips with the kids can also include stops at Ricardo's Tomatoes and the Billabong Zoo And U-Pick Strawberry Farm: Koala & Wildlife Park. The whales and other marine life can be viewed on day tours.

Sandcastle Apartments Port Macquarie, located right across from the sand, is a fantastic home base for seeing everything that this beautiful city has to offer, especially for larger parties. The 1-, 2-, and 3 apartments all have stunning views of the blue water and feature bright, airy interiors.

The Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is an absolute paradise for foodies, and it's only a little over a two-hour trip north of Sydney. The oldest vineyards in Australia may be found here, but that's not all: gourmet restaurants here serve up multi-course tasting menus including farm-fresh ingredients.

Local delicacies include chocolates, cheeses, chutneys, honey straight from the hive, olives, and aromatic oils; after indulging in these delectable treats, you can burn off the calories on a hike in the beautiful Wollemi or Barrington Tops National Parks.

There are many options for fun activities the whole family may enjoy. Visit the Hunter Valley Zoo to pet kangaroos, take in the natural beauty of the Hunter Valley Gardens, or take to the skies in a hot air balloon.

The region is home to a number of high-end spas where couples may unwind after a day of golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities. With its affordable cottages, tennis courts, relaxing outdoor pool, boules court, and popular Italian restaurant, Pokolbin Village is a fantastic place to stay for a weekend getaway.

Taste 

You can be sure that we recommend wine, and wow, do you have selections. There are a plethora of wineries and tasting rooms in the Hunter Valley. Some notable names in the region are Broken wood, Tyrrell's Wines, Hungerford Hill Tamburlaine, Organic Wines, and Usher Tinkler Wines.

When you try wine the way Lisa McGuigan does it, you won't want to go back to the old way.  art,Lisa's magnificent VAMP Wine Rooms are a sensual mash-up of music, fashion, art, and wine, where you can sample not just her own creations but also some of her favourite wines from across the world.

If you're hungry, the best place to go is Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery, where they provide breakfast all day and fresh-baked bread.

Port Stephens

To put it simply, water plays a crucial role in Port Stephens. There are more than 20 stunning beaches to spread out your towel in less than 3 hours north of Sydney, while rippling volcanic headlands hug a magnificent chunk of the blue-water bay and white sand.

Popular water sports and recreation include swimming, kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, surfing, and boating. With numerous world-record catches of billfish species, this is also one of the best places to go fishing in Australia.

There are also plenty of whales and dolphins that pop in and out of the bay often. Book a trip with them and you can observe them firsthand. Myall Lakes National Park is a short drive away and features one of the state's largest lake systems, perfect for a day on the water.

The terrain around Port Stephens is rich with opportunities for exploration. See the Port Stephens coast in all its glory from atop Tomaree Head on the Summit Walk, ride your bike down the greatest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and discover uncharted stretches of natural forest.

Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay are the main cities, but the Anchorage Port Stephens in neighbouring Corlette is also perfect for a weekend getaway with its Hamptons-style architecture, two swimming pools, waterfront eateries, and luxury spa.

Taste 

You can indulge in a Snickers or be good and have a green boost smoothie at The Little Nel, a popular breakfast spot in the area. The smashed avo there comes with roasted pumpkin, eggplant kasundi, feta, and pickled onion on soy and linseed bread.

You can grab a bite to eat and some drinks at the Little Beach Boathouse's lower level, or you can make a reservation in the restaurant upstairs. If you arrive early enough, you can snag one of the prime waterside corner front tables.

Canberra

Canberra is a great place to visit if you're into culture because it has so many great restaurants, galleries, museums, and memorials. Gardens and green spaces punctuate urban areas, and sparkling Lake Burley Griffin stands at its centre, bordered by inviting walking trails, making this a visually pleasing metropolis. These features were designed by an American architect.

Most of the city's best sights can be found in the Parliamentary Triangle, which includes Lake Burley Griffin. You may visit New Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, and Question: Australia's National Science and Technology Centre while you're in Canberra. However, if you can only see one landmark, let it be the Australian War Memorial, a style memorial to the country's war dead. The Smithsonian National Zoo and Aquarium is a fantastic place for families.

Moreover, Canberra is well-known for its abundance of kid-friendly celebrations. One of the most popular events is Floriade, which is held in the fall (often in September or October) and features displays honouring the city's vibrant spring flowers. However, the Australian National Botanic Gardens are open year-round for visitors to enjoy the native flora.

Autumn in Canberra is stunning, as the city's gardens come alive with vibrant colours. The Hyatt Hotel Canberra is located in the heart of Canberra's cultural district and features Art Deco furnishings and a weekend high tea.

Kangaroo Valley

Two hours south-west of Sydney, in the verdant Kangaroo Valley, you'll find a gentler pace of life that's excellent for city dwellers looking to get away from it all. There are no stoplights in this sleepy town in the Southern Highlands; instead, you'll find lush farmland, verdant cliffs, and the historic Hampden Bridge, built in the 19th century and now reduced to a single lane.

Just beyond the city limits are wilderness areas promising pathways for hikers, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife, especially, you guessed it, kangaroos. Morton National Park is home to several exciting activities, such as horseback riding, wombat-spotting, and kayaking along the Kangaroo River.

This place is like paradise for eaters. Visit the local farmers market, have some afternoon tea at one of the town's charming tea shops, and have a slice of pie from the world-famous Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop.

Bowral, a scenic 40-minute drive away, is home to beautiful gardens and art galleries that are well worth exploring during your stay. The Laurels Bed & Breakfast is a lovely option for a weekend of romance thanks to its use of period furnishings, chandeliers, and clawfoot tubs.

Taste 

If you're looking for a weekend getaway in Sydney that your inner foodie would adore, you shouldn't think twice about contacting The Hampden Deli and Dining to see if there's still room for their next event and planning your trip around it.

The Snowy Mountains

Recreational pursuits are popular in the Snowy Mountains year-round. Weekends here are perfect for energetic families and romantic couples. Skiing and snowboarding on snow-gummed slopes, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are just some of the winter activities that may be enjoyed before warming up by a fire and sharing stories.

During the other seasons, visitors enjoy activities such as snow gum forest and heathland trekking in Kosciuszko National Park, as well as mountain biking, rafting, and kayaking on the famous Snowy River. Mount Kosciuszko is the highest peak in Australia at 2,228 metres, and the trek to the peak is 16.8 kilometres one way.

Take the picturesque self-drive route that spans 108 kilometres from Canberra to Albury through the Kosciuszko Alpine Way to take in the rocky alpine landscape at your own pace. Looking for a relaxing weekend retreat? Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa is conveniently located on the border of Kosciuszko National Park, where you can enjoy the great outdoors year-round.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is located around 5.5 hours north of Sydney; getting there is a long drive from the city, however if you've got a long weekend free, it's well worth it. In addition to relaxing on the gorgeous beaches and meeting some friendly marine creatures at the Dolphin Conservation Park, families may enjoy stunning walking trails, lovely views, and the chance to watch migrating whales at the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.

In addition to seeing whales migrate from May to November, other popular activities include swimming, surfing, fishing, and kayaking. Go to Forest Sky Pier if you want to see the seashore and the rainforest in all their splendour.

The Big Banana Fun Park is a must-see on any trip to Coffs Harbour, even if just for a quick photo op. The banana-themed pastries, water park, and attractions will be huge hits with the kids. Try to fit in a trip along Waterfall Way if you have time for some extra sightseeing.  national parks abundant with animals Coffs Harbour and Armidale, both in New South Wales, are connected by a 185-kilometre beautiful route that winds through mountainous river valleys, waterfalls, and lush rainforests.

With a wide range of amenities and room types, the BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour is an excellent home base for any kind of travelling.

Although Coffs Harbour is located around 5.5 hours north of Sydney, the trip is well worth it if you have a long weekend free.

The Dolphin Conservation Park is a great place for families to get up up and personal with these sociable marine animals, and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is a magnificent place to go for a stroll and take in the sights, as well as the possibility to see migrating whales.

Surfing, fishing, kayaking, and swimming are among common pastimes, and from May to November, visitors can keep an eye out for migratory whales. Visit Forest Sky Pier for breathtaking views of the ocean and jungle.

Even if you're just passing through Coffs Harbour for the day, you have to stop by the famous Big Banana Fun Park for a snapshot. The banana-themed pastries and amusement park are sure to be a hit with the young ones.

Do yourself a favour and squeeze in a trip along Waterfall Way if you have the time to get out of town. The 185-kilometre route between Coffs Harbour and Armidale in New South Wales is filled with breathtaking scenery, including river valleys, woodlands, waterfalls, and parks abundant in wildlife.

With a wide range of amenities and room types, the BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour is an excellent home base for any kind of travelling.

Conclusion

Sydney is one of the world's most beautiful cities, yet even city dwellers crave a weekend getaway. Sydney has many car-accessible weekend escapes. Check out Sydney's top weekend escapes. In Blue Mountains National Park, inhale eucalyptus and gaze up at the Three Sisters rock formations. New South Wales' best beaches are in Shoalhaven on the southeastern coast.

Five-star Bannisters by the Sea is located in Mollymook, Australia. The Gunyah is a rooftop restaurant in the trees. Koalas are abundant in Port Mac. Hunter Valley is a foodies' paradise. Australia's first vineyards?

Local specialities include honey, olives, chocolates, chutneys, and cheeses. Wollemi and Barrington Tops are ideal trekking destinations. Port Stephens is a great Australian fishing destination. Port Stephens has two pools, coastal dining, and Hamptons-style architecture. Lake Burley Griffin, flanked by parks, gardens, and other green spaces, is Canberra's centrepiece.

The Australian National Botanic Gardens have native plants year-round. The Hyatt Hotel Canberra is a cultural hub. Morton National Park offers horseback riding, wombat watching, and Kangaroo River kayaking. Coffs Harbour visitors should stop at the Big Banana Fun Park, even for a few minutes. Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa borders Kosciuszko National Park.

The 185-kilometre drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale is scenic. Tourists can witness whales migrating north or south between May and November. Travelling? Stay at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort.

Content Summary

• The good news is that there are numerous potential weekend getaways within a reasonable driving distance of Sydney.
• Our list of the best weekend escapes from Sydney will inspire you whether you're looking for a family-friendly destination, a romantic hideaway, a road trip adventure, or a short break for yourself.
• On the other hand, you've come to the correct place if you want to spend a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney in rural New South Wales.
• If you're looking for a luxurious weekend vacation from Sydney, go no further than our curated choice of the greatest weekend getaways in New South Wales.
• These five-star hideaways are easily accessible from Sydney and offer a peaceful weekend break.
• To that end, we've updated our 2021 guide to weekend trips from Sydney with suggestions for new hotels, restaurants, and attractions less than a three-hour drive from the city.
• In the stunning Blue Mountains National Park, you can take in the eucalyptus-scented air, marvel at the mist-cloaked Three Sisters rock pinnacles, hike the park's strong array of trails, learn about plants that thrive in cool climates at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, and discover quaint mountain villages stocked with art galleries, and tea houses.
• The Shoalhaven region on the South Coast is often regarded as having some of the nicest beaches in New South Wales.
• If you travel farther south from Jervis Bay, you may go surfing at Mollymook Beach, see wild kangaroos in Murramarang National Park and bask in the sun on Pretty Beach, which lives up to its name.
• Bannisters by the Sea is a luxury oceanfront resort in Mollymook, Australia, featuring a vanishing edge pool, a luxurious day spa, and a highly acclaimed seafood restaurant by celebrity chef Rick Stein.
• The glamping experience at Paperbark Camp may be had without actually staying there.
• It is unnecessary to spend the night at Paperbark Camp to experience the luxuries they offer.
• North and south of the bustling, tiny town is stretches of pristine beaches where you can ride camels.
• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk at Sea Acres National Park is a wonderful way to see the coast, and it is possible to divide the walk into several shorter segments if you are travelling with children or are short on time.
• Participate in a deep-sea fishing excursion, try your luck casting a line from the pier, and don't leave town without trying some of the seafood served at the many fine restaurants.
• The Hunter Valley is an absolute paradise for foodies, and it's only a little over a two-hour trip north of Sydney.
• Visit the Hunter Valley Zoo to pet kangaroos, take in the natural beauty of the Hunter Valley Gardens, or take to the skies in a hot air balloon.
• The region is home to some high-end spas where couples may unwind after a day of golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities.
• Popular water sports and recreation include swimming, kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, surfing, and boating.
• Plenty of whales and dolphins also pop in and out of the bay often.
• Myall Lakes National Park is a short drive away and features one of the state's largest lake systems, perfect for a day on the water.
• The terrain around Port Stephens is rich with opportunities for exploration.
• Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay are the main cities. Still, the Anchorage Port Stephens in neighbouring Corlette is also perfect for a weekend getaway with its Hamptons-style architecture, two swimming pools, waterfront eateries, and a luxury spa.
• Canberra is a great place to visit if you're into the culture because it has so many great restaurants, galleries, museums, and memorials.
• The Smithsonian National Zoo and Aquarium is a fantastic place for families.
• Autumn in Canberra is stunning, as the city's gardens come alive with vibrant colours.
• Two hours southwest of Sydney, in the verdant Kangaroo Valley, you'll find a gentler pace of life that's excellent for city dwellers looking to get away from it all.
• If you're looking for a weekend getaway in Sydney that your inner foodie would adore, you shouldn't think twice about contacting The Hampden Deli and Dining to see if there's still room for their next event and planning your trip around it.
• During the other seasons, visitors enjoy activities such as snow gum forest and heathland trekking in Kosciuszko National Park and mountain biking, rafting, and kayaking on the famous Snowy River.
• Mount Kosciuszko is the highest peak in Australia at 2,228 metres, and the trek to the peak is 16.8 kilometres one way.
• Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa is conveniently located on the border of Kosciuszko National Park, where you can enjoy the great outdoors year-round.
• Coffs Harbour is located around 5.5 hours north of Sydney; getting there is a long drive from the city; however, if you've got a free long weekend, it's well worth it.
• The Big Banana Fun Park is a must-see on any trip to Coffs Harbour, even if just for a quick photo op.
• Try to take a trip along Waterfall Way if you have time for some extra sightseeing.
• With a wide range of amenities and room types, the BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour is an excellent home base for any travelling.
• Although Coffs Harbour is located around 5.5 hours north of Sydney, the trip is well worth it if you have a long weekend free.
• Do yourself a favour and squeeze in a trip along Waterfall Way if you can get out of town.
• The 185-kilometre route between Coffs Harbour and Armidale in New South Wales is filled with breathtaking scenery, including river valleys, woodlands, waterfalls, and parks abundant in wildlife.