Travel New South Wales was one of our best decisions. Coming from Victoria, we didn’t know what to expect, but by the end of our first day, we were already in love. There’s just so much to see and do – from iconic beaches in the south to the stunning nature and laid-back vibes in the north. We loved it so much that on our second trip to Australia, we knew we had to include Sydney and northern New South Wales again.
It’s tough to fit all the adventures we had in New South Wales into just one blog post. That’s why we’ve split our stories into separate posts for each destination we explored. In this summary, we’ll share the highlights of our time in both southern and northern New South Wales, from family-friendly stays to incredible photography spots.
Content Teaser
Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our New South Wales trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
October
Travel Mode
Journey / Road trip (20days)
Our Must-Sees
Bondi Beach, Blue Mountains,
Sydney’s Opera House, Nelson Bay, Byron Bay
Where to stay
Hillcrest Merimbula, Bay Breeze,
Skye Suites Sydney, Ocean Suites Byron
Plant-Based Food
Tucker Casuarina, Folk Byron Bay
Mobility
Rental car Sixt
Travel Budget
around €10.274 (17,192AUD)
€513 (858AUD) per day
without air fare
Travel New South Wales: Must-See Gems You Can’t Miss
On our first Australian road trip through New South Wales, we drove along the stunning coastal line from the southern to the northern end of the state, covering it all in just 20 days. The journey was packed with incredible views, family-friendly adventures, and unforgettable stops. We were so amazed by everything New South Wales had to offer that we couldn’t resist doing it all over again on our second trip to Australia, making sure to revisit Sydney and explore even more of the north.
Merimubula – 2 Days of Relaxation
Travel New South Wales began for us in the charming coastal town of Merimbula, a true gem on the Sapphire Coast. This peaceful spot was the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. We spent two relaxing days walking along the scenic boardwalk and enjoying the calm beaches. And we spotted plenty of kangaroos in the wild again as in South Australia. Our hotel, chosen on the fly, turned out to be an absolute hidden gem and made our stay even more special.
Batemans Bay: 3 Days by the Coast
Our next stop, Batemans Bay, was just a scenic 2.5-hour drive north from Merimbula. This vibrant coastal town became our home base for three incredible days of exploring the surrounding region. We found a fantastic place to stay, which turned out to be the perfect spot to relax and plan our adventures.
One of our favorite outings was to Pebbly Beach, about 30 minutes from Batemans Bay, where kangaroos were everywhere! Watching them hop freely in their natural habitat was an unforgettable highlight. We also made our way to Hyams Beach, famously known as the whitest beach on earth (whoever sits on the jury for it).
Sydney: 4 Nights of Iconic Experiences
At first, we were in love with Melbourne, but our date with Sydney? That was love at first sight. It’s easy to see why this city is considered one of the most desirable places on earth – Sydney truly has it all and more.
From the stunning coastal walk between Coogee Beach and the famous Bondi Beach to magical evenings by the Opera House, Sydney had us completely captivated. And if that wasn’t enough, a day trip to the breathtaking Blue Mountains added even more to the experience. The mix of incredible nature, vibrant city life, and endless things to explore makes Sydney a place you’ll never forget. After just a few days, we knew Sydney had to be on our list for our second trip to Australia. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to stay at least four nights – you’ll need every moment to take in the magic, and it’s so worth it!
Nelson Bay: 3 Nights of Relaxing and Fun on the Water
After leaving Sydney, we thought it would be hard to top the experience. However, a scenic 2.5-hour drive brought us to Nelson Bay, which had its own unique charm. Watching the sunrise over the dunes at Anna Bay was a highlight – calm, peaceful, and absolutely stunning. The region offers plenty to explore. The beaches were great for swimming, and the kids had a blast splashing around. Additionally, the relaxed vibe of the town made it easy to unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery. On our second trip to Australia, we skipped Nelson Bay to explore Moonee Beach instead. Although we didn’t regret discovering a new place, we missed the variety and laid-back atmosphere of Nelson Bay.
Pottsville: 2 Nights of Small-Town Charm
Pottsville was a hidden gem that we didn’t expect to fall in love with so much. Located about a 6-hour drive from Nelson Bay, it was originally meant to be just a stopover on our way to Byron Bay. However, as soon as we arrived, this charming little town completely won us over. In fact, we loved it so much that we made sure to include it again on our second trip to Australia. What makes Pottsville truly special isn’t one big “must-see” attraction. Instead, it’s the overall vibe of the town and the incredible sense of community that draw you in. We especially enjoyed the peaceful beaches, which were perfect for unwinding, as well as the friendly local markets where we found some great treasures. Additionally, the cozy, laid-back atmosphere made it easy to relax and soak in the moment. Pottsville is undoubtedly a place worth visiting when traveling through northern New South Wales.
Byron Bay: 4 Nights in a Surfer’s Paradise
Travel New South Wales wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Byron Bay. This was planned as the highlight of our trip, and it truly lived up to the hype. From the moment we arrived, we found it absolutely wonderful. If you love surfing and beach vibes, this is the place to be – you’ll get everything you’re looking for and more.
We spent four amazing days here, and honestly, we didn’t take off our flip-flops the entire time. Visiting the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse was a must, and we loved spending lazy days soaking up the sun at Wategos Beach. The town also has some incredible plant-based cafes, which made it even better for us. Four nights felt perfect to truly enjoy Byron Bay and experience the magic of this surfer’s paradise.
The Best Stays During Our New South Wales Adventure
Finding the right places to stay can truly make or break a trip, and during our New South Wales adventure, we were fortunate to discover some amazing accommodations that added so much to our journey. From cozy homes to family-friendly stays, each one brought its own unique charm and comfort. Additionally, these spots made it easy to unwind after long days of exploring and gave us the perfect bases to discover the surrounding regions.
Hillcrest Merimbula
We stayed at Hillcrest Merimbula, a charming spot that gave us stunning views and the perfect base to explore the Sapphire Coast.
Bay Breeze at Batemans Bay
Our home here was Bay Breeze, a fantastic place that offered comfort and convenience, making it easy to explore highlights like Pebbly Beach and Hyams Beach.
Skye Suites Green Garden Sydney
We stayed at the stunning Skye Suites, which put us right in the heart of the city. It was perfect for visiting iconic spots like the Opera House and Bondi Beach.
Pottsville Air Bnb
We stayed in a lovely Airbnb that perfectly matched the cozy, laid-back vibe of the town. It made our stopover on the way to Byron Bay feel extra special.
Loft Corlette in Nelson Bay
The Loft Corlette, an incredible Airbnb that quickly became one of our favorite accommodations on the entire trip. Spacious, beautifully designed, and with all the comforts we could ask for, it truly felt like a home away from home.
Ocean Suites at Byron Bay
Ocean Suites was our home here, just a short walk from the beach and perfect for relaxation. It was the ideal spot to enjoy Byron Bay’s chilled atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and a cozy, comfortable stay. We loved it so much that we stayed here again during our second Byron Bay trip – an easy choice. The combination of comfort, location, and laid-back vibes makes Ocean Suites an excellent choice for any Byron Bay traveler.
Travel New South Wales: The Best Plant-Based Food Spots
Discovering plant-based food while traveling isn’t always easy, but New South Wales turned out to be a true haven for us. From fresh markets to cozy cafes, we were amazed by the variety and quality throughout our trip. Sydney stood out as the ultimate highlight for vegan food – it impressed us so much that we dedicated an entire blog post to it.
While the southern part of the state was a bit more challenging when it came to finding trendy vegan spots, the northern region, including Byron Bay, made up for it in every way. With countless options for delicious plant-based meals, it was almost too easy to eat well. Here are some of the standout spots and experiences that made our journey extra tasty!
Southern NSW
In Merimbula, we had breakfast at Nourish Café, which quickly became a favorite for its fresh, plant-based options and great coffee. Sadly, the café is now closed, but it left a lasting impression on us as a wonderful spot to start the day during our time in New South Wales.
In Batemans Bay, we opted for self-cooking, taking full advantage of the amazing kitchen in our Bay Breeze accommodation. It had everything we needed to whip up fresh, healthy meals, making it a relaxing and convenient way to enjoy our evenings after a day of exploring.
Northern NSW
The Pottsville region may not have a huge variety of dedicated vegan restaurants, but we found some amazing spots nearby. Just a short drive to Casuarina, we discovered Tucker Casuarina, a fantastic cafe offering fresh, wholesome food with plenty of plant-based options. Their menu was creative and delicious, making it a perfect stop for anyone exploring the area. Whether it was a hearty breakfast or a quick coffee break, Tucker Casuarina quickly became a favorite during our time in Pottsville.
Byron Bay, as you’d expect, this laid-back town was full of incredible plant-based options. We loved the fresh smoothies and healthy snacks available at various spots around town. For dining, we were especially impressed by Folk Byron Bay, which served up delicious meals in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. It was the perfect place to wind down after a day of exploring.
Travel New South Wales: Transportation Tips for Easy Exploring
Travel New South Wales wouldn’t have been possible without a car, and for our road trip, we switched from the Toyota Prado to a Mitsubishi Pajero, which we rented from Sixt at the start of our journey in South Australia. Yes, it’s in the higher price range, but the extra space was such a huge plus. With all the packing, unpacking, and long drives, it made everything so much easier. Moreover, the roomy interior was especially helpful for the kids, who had plenty of space to stay comfortable during the many hours we spent on the road. All in all, it made the driving part of the adventure smooth and stress-free.
Tips for Driving in New South Wales
In New South Wales, like the rest of Australia, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you’re not used to this, it’s important to take it slow at first to adjust. Additionally, wildlife can be a real challenge in rural areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Kangaroos and other animals may suddenly appear on the road, so it’s crucial to always stay alert.
When it comes to fuel, planning ahead is essential. Outside the cities, fuel stations can be few and far between, so it’s a good idea to fill up whenever you get the chance. Furthermore, sticking to the speed limits is a must, as they are strictly enforced with speed cameras everywhere, and the fines can be quite steep.
If you’re driving into Sydney, be prepared for toll roads. Many rental cars come with electronic tags for toll payments; however, it’s always worth double-checking with your provider to avoid any surprises. All these tips combined made our driving experience in New South Wales enjoyable, convenient, and hassle-free.
Travel New South Wales: Let’s Counting the Costs
Accomodation
Merimbula €120 (201AUD)
Batemans Bay €490 (820AUD)
Sydney €296 (495AUD)
Nelson Bay €350 (586AUD)
Pottsville €130 (217AUD)
Byron Bay €320 (535AUD)
all prices per day
Food & Dining
Mainly self-catering
around €75 (126AUD) per day
Mobility
Rental car SIXT Mitsubishi Pajero
around €120 (201AUD) per day
Fuel & Parking €605 (1,012AUD)
Activities
Whale Watching €285 (477AUD)
rest: free of charge!
Total Spent
around €10.274 (17,192AUD) /
€513 (858AUD) per day
without air fare
Travel New South Wales: Top Instagrammable Spots You Can’t Miss
New South Wales is absolutely brimming with Instagrammable spots, and narrowing them down was definitely a challenge. In fact, there were so many stunning locations that we decided to dedicate an entire blog post to showcase our top 10. Even narrowing it down to just 10 was no small task, and honestly, we’re sure we’ve missed countless other incredible spots in this amazing state.
From must-see landmarks like the Cape Byron Lighthouse and the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk to hidden gems scattered along the Sapphire Coast and beyond, New South Wales is a dream come true for anyone who loves photography. Additionally, with so much natural beauty and iconic views around every corner, it’s practically impossible not to find inspiration for your next photo.
That’s why we’re excited to share our dedicated blog post, where we’ll take you through our favorite Instagram-worthy locations and help you discover the magic of New South Wales for yourself. Stay tuned, and get ready to capture some truly unforgettable moments!
Travel New South Wales: Your Questions Answered
The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
A minimum of 10–14 days is ideal to explore both the north and south, but you could easily spend a month discovering more hidden gems.
Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Byron Bay, Nelson Bay, and Jervis Bay are among the top destinations.
Absolutely! Pebbly Beach, Moonee Beach, and many national parks across New South Wales are fantastic spots for seeing kangaroos in their natural habitat. Additionally, areas like Murramarang National Park and the Blue Mountains often offer great chances to spot these iconic animals. Whether you’re along the coast or exploring inland, keep your eyes open, especially during early mornings or evenings, as these are the best times to see them.
Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, dolphins, and many bird species are commonly seen in various regions of New South Wales. Additionally, you might spot wallabies, echidnas, and even platypuses if you’re exploring the right areas at the right time. Moreover, New South Wales’ national parks and coastal regions are perfect for observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any unexpected issues like medical emergencies or cancellations.
Yes, tap water is safe to drink across New South Wales.
Yes, the Blue Mountains, Royal National Park, and coastal walks like Bondi to Coogee all offer incredible hiking experiences. Additionally, each of these spots has its own unique charm, making them perfect for both seasoned hikers and casual explorers. The Blue Mountains are known for their dramatic cliffs and breathtaking lookouts, while the Royal National Park offers lush greenery and coastal trails with stunning ocean views. Furthermore, the Bondi to Coogee walk is ideal for anyone wanting a scenic yet accessible hike, combining beautiful beaches with vibrant local culture. No matter your preference, New South Wales has a hiking trail that’s sure to impress!
New South Wales is home to countless stunning beaches, each offering something unique. For iconic spots, visit Bondi and Manly Beach in Sydney. If natural beauty is your thing, don’t miss Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay, Pebbly Beach with its kangaroos, or Moonee Beach near Coffs Harbour. Surfers will love Byron Bay, Crescent Head, and Lennox Head, while family-friendly options include Terrigal Beach and Shoal Bay in Nelson Bay. For secluded gems, head to Seal Rocks, Red Rock Beach, or the dramatic Cathedral Rocks near Kiama.
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