Destinations

New South Wales

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Fun Fact

New South Wales is Australia’s astro-tourism capital, and has the nation’s first ever dark sky park, at Warrumbungle National Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA).

Tourism Regions
in New South Wales

Outback NSW

New England North West

North Coast

Central NSW

The Hunter

Central Coast

Sydney and Surrounds

Blue Mountains

Capital Country

South Coast

Snowy Mountains

Riverina

Murray

Welcome to
New South Wales

When you think of Australia, the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach and the stunning coastline that continues for miles and miles, probably come to mind. Yet, anlthough all of these incredible icons are within New South Wales (NSW), there’s more to this state than just the city of Sydney and the beaches. Honestly, NSW has it all:

Stunning countryside
Wineries
Endless coastlines
Mountains
Remote island destinations that will take your breath away.

Sydney, We Can't
NOT Mention It

Undoubtedly, Sydney, the capital of NSW, is one of the world’s most alluring and spectacular cities. Built around the sparkling harbour, the city’s stunning attractions, such as the infamous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the historic Rocks area and the incredibly impressive Royal Botanic Gardens, will remain in your heart forever. As well as an array of excellent restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs, Sydney also offers white sand beaches, a stone’s throw from the Central Business Distrcit (CBD) – aka, downtown – as well as bushwalking, hiking and boating day-trip opportunities.

Akin to Australia’s other capitals, Sydney has some excellent festivals, farmer’s markets and cultural events throughout the year. Vivid Light Festival, Mardi Gras, Sydney Festival and the ever-insightful and inspiring Writer’s Festival, are just a few that spring to mind. However, there are a plethora of free outdoor concerts in the Domain, must-see shows at the Opera House and ongoing cultural events and international exhibitions, that are all worth checking out.

Travelling Beyond
the Capital

Although Sydney is one of Australia’s shiniest gems, there are a number of other destinations within NSW that are definitely worth exploring.

The south coast

Stretching from the southern fringe of Sydney to the Victorian border, the South Coast region of NSW is home to some of the state’s most beautiful white-sand beaches that starkly contrast with the dark summits of the Great Dividing Range. Along this southern coastline are a series of small holiday resorts, all of which offer fantastic opportunities for water sports from the shores of their pristine beaches. A few of our favourite destinations are:

Kiama, which is home to the world’s largest blowhole.
Jervis Bay, with its powdery white sand and divine swimming conditions.
Hyams Beach known for its white-as-snow sand.
Batemans Bay, a top snorkelling destination.

The Blue Mountains

Located approximately 65 kilometres west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains rise steeply out of the coastal plain, resulting in the formation of magnificent gorges, waterfalls and sacred First Nation’s sites, all with excellent tourist facilities. The region’s Jenolan Caves are the oldest-known open cave system in the world, and is where you can see glittering stalactites and stalagmites on a guided tour. Named for the blue haze created by the many eucalyptus trees, the region forms one of the state’s magnificent World Heritage Sites and hosts some of Australia’s best hiking trails.

Fit for a Lord

Travel the other way – on a two-hour flight east from Sydney out across the Pacific – to find the World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, a much sought-after haven for serenity-seekers and nature lovers, with only a maximum of 400 guests at any one time. Surrounded by the world’s most southerly coral reef, Lord Howe encompasses a number of islets, made up of a former volcano. The scenery is postcard perfect – dramatic cliffs rise along the rugged coast, white-sand beaches hug the coastline and pristine native forests of pandanus and kentia palms, flourish on every roadside corner.

Must-Sees in
New South Wales

Believe it or not, it does actually snow in Australia and NSW is home to the continent’s highest mountains, including 2,228 metre Mount Kosciuszko, as well as some of Australia’s best ski resorts. One of the top attractions of course is Kosciuszko National Park, which is a popular recreational area year-round. Snowy winters lure skiers, and in the summer, the easily accessible alpine terrain of snow gum forests and glacial lakes, attracts bushwalkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Northern NSW

In the hinterland of the far north coast of NSW, inland from the well-known Byron Bay, lies Wollumbin National Park, where tranquil rainforests and thrumming waterfalls are plentiful across the region’s ranges. There are also off-the-beaten-track villages, such as Federal and Bangalow, that offer excellent food, local wares and produce for sale. Meanwhile, the nearby coastal towns of Lennox Head, Brunswick Head and Ocean Shores, are all worthy of a stop in the local hotel (aka pub) and a walk on their crowd less pristine beaches.

Outback NSW

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, then we reckon you’re due a visit to Outback NSW, a place full of sacred First Nation’s sites, harsh deserts and unforgettable beauty. One of the most historical places not to be missed is Mungo National Park, in the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area, which to date, holds records of First Nation’s life, dating back 40,000 to 60,000 years ago.

If you’re chasing hiking trails that encompass wildflowers, snow gums, spring-fed gorges and spectacular rock buttresses, Warrumbungle National Park, in the zone of transition between the arid areas to the west and the rainy east, is awaiting your arrival.

In addition to exploring the rugged national parks, the towns in the Outback are some of the most unique places to explore in New South Wales, with plenty of unusual things to see and do. For example, you can fossick for opals at the mining towns of White Cliffs and Lightning Ridge, visit the Living Desert Sculptures of Broken Hill or visit the renowned and much-loved Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Outback NSW is also home to one of Australia’s few internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserves and a perfect place to stargaze.

Regardless of the season, we know any time of year is a great time to visit NSW, and Liv Australia are ready to help you plan your trip to this must-see (but extensive) part of Australia.

Trip Tip

The weather within Australia's extensive states and territories differs dramatically and NSW is no exception. Although temperatures across  NSW are generally mild, they can also be very hot in the northwest corner of the state, and very cold in the southern alpine regions. It's important to consider this when planning your time in Australia, as you may spend your entire trip in one state, but come across several varying climates!

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