Take a plunge at a world-famous surf beach, dine next to sweeping coastal views, explore rolling green hinterland. From intimate weekends to adventure, wine and wonder – a quick getaway is a sure path to reconnecting with the things that matter. So jump aboard, and find out why some of the best weekend getaways from Sydney are not only within easy reach, but are a fast-track to long-lasting memories and experiences.
Wine and dine in Newcastle
Distance from Sydney: 170km / 2 hrs
Only 2 hours drive from Sydney, Newcastle is a nearby coastal gem that also happens to be one of the best places to road trip in NSW. Famed for iconic surf beaches, its character-filled heritage and a range of thriving bars and restaurants, Newcastle promises a road trip from Sydney that delivers for families, friends and couples alike.
Sample a combination of its charms with a cocktail, beer or wine and Modern Italian cuisine at Merewether Surfhouse, while enjoying sweeping views of the famous Merewether Beach and its headland. Take a deeper dive into flavours at the Foghorn Brewery. Need to take it up a level? Switch on the adrenaline with a Newcastle skydive adventure.
Newcastle Beach accommodation
Situated in a restored heritage-listed building, the Terminus Apartment Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection offers views over the sparkling harbor and is close to the historic and vibrant heart of Newcastle.
Related: Treat yourself to a long weekend in Newcastle this Spring
Chill out on Towradgi Beach
Distance from Sydney: 88km / 1 hr 20 min
A scenic drive from Sydney (check out the Bulli Lookout on the way) Towradgi Beach is a peaceful beach haven only 5 kilometres from the lively township of Wollongong. Stretching from Towradgi Creek to the gorgeous beachfront, enjoy a soak and scenery from Towradgi Rock Pool before grabbing dinner and a drink at Towradgi Park Bowls.
Surrounded by gorgeous rolling hinterland, it’s also easy to turn up the adventure dial at nearby attractions. Immerse yourself in a treetop walk or zipline tour at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, or meet koalas, red pandas and monkeys at Symbio Wildlife Zoo. Nestled in gorgeous green hinterland, Jamberoo Action Park is a winner for the kids.
Towradgi accommodation
The Comfort Inn Towradgi offers a relaxed seaside getaway where you can enjoy the scenery, dine in at Oscar’s Grill or take a short drive into town. The Quality Suites Pioneer Sands is another Towradgi hotel ideally located on the northern side of Wollongong.
Coastal cruise in Toukley
Distance from Sydney: 115km / 1 hr 25 min
The perfect destination for year-round waterside attractions, Toukley tops the list of unforgettable weekend trips from Sydney by rolling out tranquil lakeside stretches, golden ocean beaches and great bars and restaurants. Stretch your legs on the Tuggerah cycle pathway, where you’ll find the century-old 351m Long Jetty – NSW’s longest jetty. You can also explore nearby historic landmark Norah Head Lighthouse on a guided tour.
Sate the appetite after a bracing walk or paddle with a burrito and margarita at local favourite Mexicoast Cantina. ‘The Beachie’ is another iconic local favourite. Home to the Beachcomber Bar and Restaurant, Pelicans fine dining and a number of family-friendly options, this venue overlooks glittering Tuggerah Lake.
Toukley accommodation
The Beachcomber Hotel and Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection offers Hampton’s inspired style, an assortment of restaurant and bar options and glittering waterways.
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