Best Day Trips From Sydney

The Royal National Park has heaps of different areas to explore in order to recharge, unplug, and get back to nature. There are coastal walks that stretch for miles, waterfalls to take a dip in, a ton of bushland to hike through, cycling, and opportunity to rent canoes to paddle down the Hacking River. If you visit between May and November, you can also catch a glimpse of whales migrating north for the winter. It’s the perfect day for those wanting to get away from city life in order to enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.

Located a short two-hour drive outside the city, Jervis Bay is known to have the whitest sand in the world, along with clear turquoise waters that are perfect for a day of snorkeling or scuba diving. The beaches are surrounded by the stunning bushland of Jervis Bay National Park, making it a nature lover’s paradise. This spot is never very crowded, despite its reputation for world-renowned beaches, so if you’re looking for a more tranquil beach experience, this is the place for you.

Just over a two-hour drive north of Sydney lies the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s best wine regions, jam packed with spots to taste some vino and enjoy a day exploring the vineyards. There are various ways in which you can experience this stunning region, from hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, or simply hopping from winery to winery enjoying the food and wine. While this activity isn’t exactly free, there are many different tours and packages you can choose from to make the most of your day here and get bang for your buck. You can choose a tour that departs from Sydney, join a tour once you reach the valley, or just go exploring on your own!

Established in 1894, this is Australia’s second oldest National Park. It is only 25km north from Sydney’s central business district, and so easily accessible for a days’ adventure. The park is amazing, with rainforest, cliffs, Aboriginal sites, secluded beaches, walking tracks, and mountain biking trails.

This national park is filled with walks that will satisfy both seasoned hikers and those who are mainly in it for the pictures. The views are insane, and there are a range of levels for hikes located throughout the park. Popular walks include Berowra to Mount Kuring-gai via Apple Tree Bay; West Head Lookout to Great Mackerel Beach; Bobbin Head, Sphinx and Warrimoo Loop Track; and the Resolute Loop Track.

Additional reporting by Megan Dye.

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