Things to do in New South Wales

Things to Do in New South Wales: Top Attractions and Experiences

From iconic coastlines to rugged mountain ranges and vast inland plains, New South Wales is a state of remarkable diversity. Whether you’re exploring the beaches of the South Coast, hiking through the Blue Mountains, sipping wine in the Hunter Valley, or uncovering ancient stories in Outback NSW, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Discover top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences across all corners of NSW.

Top Attractions - Sydney & Surrounds

Australia’s most famous city, Sydney is packed with bucket-list landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife experiences. Explore iconic coastlines, dine harbourside, and discover world-class events and festivals.

Sydney Harbour Sunset

Top Attractions in the Hunter Valley Wine Region

Renowned globally for its award-winning vineyards, gourmet food experiences, and scenic countryside, the Hunter Valley Wine Region offers a perfect escape just north of Sydney. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and explore charming cellar doors and boutique towns.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Chocolate & Cheese Factories Artisan tastings of locally made delights Pokolbin
Hunter Valley Gardens Themed floral displays and seasonal festivals Pokolbin
Hunter Valley Vineyards Over 150 wineries producing Semillon, Shiraz, and more Pokolbin & surrounds
Hot Air Ballooning Sunrise flights with champagne breakfasts Pokolbin
Horse Riding through Vineyards Scenic horseback rides through vineyards Pokolbin area
Pokolbin Central hub of wine country with cellar doors Pokolbin
Wine & Sculpture Trail Outdoor art trail through vineyards Pokolbin & surrounds

Top Attractions on the Central Coast NSW

The Central Coast region combines beautiful beaches, national parks, and vibrant coastal towns within easy reach of Sydney. From peaceful lake cruises to coastal walks and wildlife sanctuaries, the area offers diverse attractions for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Australian Reptile Park Interactive wildlife park featuring native reptiles and mammals Somersby
Bouddi National Park Coastal walks, secluded beaches, and Aboriginal heritage sites Bouddi Peninsula
Gosford Regional Gallery Art exhibitions showcasing local and national artists Gosford
Pelican Feeding at The Entrance Daily pelican feeding spectacle and family-friendly park The Entrance
Tuggerah Lake Popular for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnic spots Tuggerah
Wamberal Beach Surf beach with nearby cafes and walking trails Wamberal

Top Attractions in the Illawarra & Wollongong

Nestled between the escarpment and the sea, Illawarra & Wollongong combine dramatic coastal views, adventure sports, and vibrant seaside culture. Just south of Sydney, the region is known for surfing beaches, rainforest hikes, and one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Austinmer Beach Popular surf beach with rock pools and grassy picnic areas Austinmer
Bald Hill Lookout Famous hang-gliding site with sweeping views over Sea Cliff Bridge Stanwell Tops
Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk Elevated rainforest walkway and zipline experience Knights Hill
Kiama Blowhole Natural sea geyser and dramatic coastal rock formations Kiama
Nan Tien Temple Largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere Berkeley (Wollongong)
Sea Cliff Bridge Iconic winding bridge over the ocean, part of Grand Pacific Drive Clifton
Wollongong Art Gallery Regional gallery with Australian and Aboriginal art exhibitions Wollongong
Wollongong Head Lighthouse Historic lighthouse with coastal views and picnic spots Flagstaff Hill, Wollongong

Top Attractions in the Blue Mountains National Park

Just a short drive from Sydney, Blue Mountains National Park offers rugged sandstone cliffs, ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and quaint mountain towns. It’s a top spot for hiking, photography, and experiencing Australia’s natural heritage.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mt Tomah Cool-climate gardens with panoramic mountain views Mt Tomah
Echo Point Lookout Panoramic views overlooking the Three Sisters sandstone formation Katoomba
Grand Canyon Walking Track Scenic hiking trail through lush valleys and waterfalls Blackheath
Jenolan Caves Extensive limestone cave network with guided tours Jenolan
Leura Village Boutique shops, cafes, and gardens in a charming town Leura
Scenic World Cableway, railway, and skyway rides through rainforest Katoomba
Three Sisters Iconic sandstone rock formation steeped in Aboriginal legend Katoomba
Wentworth Falls Waterfalls and walking tracks with lookouts Wentworth Falls

Top Attractions in the Northern Rivers NSW

The Northern Rivers region is a lush, subtropical area rich with rainforests, surf beaches, and vibrant towns. It’s a hotspot for alternative lifestyles, arts, and nature-based activities, offering something for every kind of traveler.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Bangalow Stylish hinterland village with boutique shopping Bangalow
Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk Sunrise views at Australia’s easternmost point Byron Bay
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens Spiritual gardens with giant crystals and tranquil walks Mullumbimby
Minyon Falls Dramatic waterfall in Nightcap National Park Nightcap National Park
Mt Warning (Wollumbin) Challenging pre-dawn hike with panoramic sunrise views Near Murwillumbah
Nimbin Famous alternative lifestyle town with colorful arts Nimbin
Surfing at Byron Bay & Yamba Popular surf beaches for all levels Byron Bay, Yamba
Yamba Relaxed coastal town with beaches and fishing Yamba

Top Attractions in the Mid North Coast NSW

Stretching along the central coast of NSW, the Mid North Coast is known for its golden beaches, national parks, and friendly towns. It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers, hikers, and families looking for a relaxed coastal vibe.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Booti Booti National Park Coastal rainforest walks and secluded beaches Near Forster
Crowdy Head Lighthouse Scenic lighthouse with coastal views Crowdy Head
Dorrigo National Park World Heritage rainforest and waterfalls Dorrigo
Hastings River Popular for fishing, kayaking, and boating Port Macquarie
Kooloonbung Creek Nature Reserve Wetlands and walking trails in urban Port Macquarie Port Macquarie
Tacking Point Lighthouse Iconic lighthouse overlooking Pacific Ocean Lighthouse Beach

Top Attractions in the Southern Highlands NSW

Known for its cool climate, historic villages, and stunning gardens, the Southern Highlands offers a picturesque retreat with gourmet food, wineries, and outdoor adventures just a couple of hours from Sydney.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Berrima Historic village with boutique shops and cafes Berrima
Fitzroy Falls Dramatic waterfalls in Morton National Park Morton National Park
Hampden Bridge Historic sandstone bridge and local picnic spot Kangaroo Valley
Morton National Park Rainforest walks, waterfalls, and wildlife Southern Highlands
Southern Highlands Botanic Garden Gardens showcasing native and exotic plants Bowral
Wingecarribee River Scenic river for walking and picnicking Various locations

Top Attractions in the Riverina NSW

The Riverina region is a rich agricultural heartland known for its wide open plains, historic towns, and vibrant food and wine culture. It offers heritage trails, nature reserves, and relaxed country charm.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Barellan Home to the Big Tennis Racquet landmark Barellan
Charles Sturt University Art Gallery Regional art exhibitions and cultural events Wagga Wagga
Lake Talbot Recreational lake with swimming and picnic areas Wagga Wagga
Murrumbidgee River River activities including fishing and kayaking Various locations
National Art Glass Collection Unique collection of Australian glass art Wagga Wagga
Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens Gardens and walking trails Wagga Wagga

Top Attractions in the South Coast NSW (Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay)

The South Coast is famous for its pristine beaches, marine life, and charming towns. It’s perfect for whale watching, dolphin cruises, and exploring national parks dotted along the coastline.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Berry Historic town known for markets and local food Berry
Booderee National Park Aboriginal-owned park with beaches and botanic gardens Jervis Bay
Eden Whale Festival (Oct–Nov) Celebration of humpback whale migration Eden
Hyams Beach White sand beach in Jervis Bay Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruises Year-round dolphin watching boat tours Jervis Bay
Kiama Blowhole Natural sea geyser with coastal walking tracks Kiama
Murramarang National Park Beaches, kangaroos on sand, and rainforest walks Murramarang
Paperbark Camp Eco-glamping in bushland near pristine waters Near Jervis Bay
Sea Cliff Bridge Ocean-hugging bridge perfect for drives and photos Near Wollongong / South Coast

Wild Kangroos on the beach at Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras

Top Attractions in the New England High Country

Top Attractions in the Outback NSW / Western NSW

Vast red landscapes, star-filled skies, and deep cultural heritage define Outback NSW. From heritage towns to lunar-like national parks, this remote and rugged region invites adventurers, photographers, and those seeking to connect with Australia’s ancient land and stories.

Attraction Description Location/Suburb
Broken Hill Australia’s first heritage-listed city, rich in mining history and art Broken Hill
Kinchega National Park Historic woolshed, wetlands, and red sandscapes near Menindee Lakes Near Menindee
Lightning Ridge Quirky opal-mining town famous for rare black opals and eccentric art Lightning Ridge
Mungo National Park World Heritage site with ancient Aboriginal history and lunette landscapes Willandra Lakes Region
Mutawintji National Park Rock art, gorges, and sacred Aboriginal cultural sites Near Broken Hill
Paroo-Darling National Park Birdwatching haven with semi-arid wetlands and cultural heritage Wilcannia region
Silverton Historic mining town turned art hub, film location for Mad Max Near Broken Hill
White Cliffs Unique underground homes in a remote opal town White Cliffs

Plan Your New South Wales Adventure

Whether you’re exploring the ancient footsteps of the Mungo people, marvelling at starlit skies over Broken Hill, or uncovering opal secrets in Lightning Ridge, Outback NSW / Western NSW offers a journey like no other. It’s a place where time slows down, the land tells powerful stories, and the adventure is as vast as the horizon.

New South Wales Travel Inspiration & Stories

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