Take This Scenic Route from Sydney to Newcastle

With many of New South Wales’ best beach towns along the route, turning your Sydney to Newcastle drive into an experience is a must.

You might have taken a Sydney to Newcastle road trip in the past, only thinking of getting to your destination. This is understandable – Newcastle is a thriving city filled with great cafes, plenty of family fun, and loads of pubs, breweries and nightlife to enjoy. But if you choose the slow driving route from Sydney to Newcastle, you’re in for a treat. Populated with some of the best NSW beaches, national parks and up-close nature experiences, the drive is one worth relishing. Here is our guide to the perfect Sydney to Newcastle road trip.

Kur-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

The third oldest national park in Australia, Kur-ring-gai Chase National Park is a beautiful wilderness inside of Sydney popular with locals but often missed by those not in the know. Spend a day exploring the various walking trails and relaxing under leafy trees with a picnic.

Must See: Bobbin Head

Bobbin Head is a great spot for kids and adults alike, with lovely picnic areas shaded by trees, on the banks of Cowan Creek. There is a playground for little ones, and it’s worthwhile getting out on the water via the paddle boats for hire down at the marina.

an aerial view overlooking Bobbin Head Picnic Ground and CowanCreek — Relax by the water at Bobbin Head. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Killara Hotel and Suites

Killara Hotel and Suites is a comfortable place to lay your head nearby. Recently renovated, it’s close to the excellent dining and boutique shopping of Sydney’s North Shore.

the executive king room interior at Killara Hotel and Suites — Stay for the night at Killara Hotel and Suites.

Patonga Beach

Take the exit off the highway past Mooney Mooney and travel down to Patonga Beach and its beautiful surroundings. Stay a few days and beach-hop between Patonga Beach, Pearl Beach and Ettalong Beach, enjoy the cafe and dining scene, and relish in the tranquillity of this coastal region.

A table full of meals ordered at The Boathouse Hotel Patonga — The food rivals the views at The Boathouse Hotel in Patonga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: Palm Beach by Ferry

From Patonga Beach, you can jump on the ferry across to Palm Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s a short trip and, on a sunny day, makes for a beautiful cruise. At Palm Beach, you’ll find hikes, water activities and relaxed cafes for a leisurely lunch.

Women at the Palm Beach Lighthouse trail summit looking out over the views — Palm Beach is just a ferry ride across the water from Patonga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: The Boathouse Hotel

This boutique hotel and famous restaurant is very popular and worth booking ahead. Did you miss out on a room? Treat yourself to a delicious, relaxed lunch or dinner at the restaurant downstairs.

a bedroom in an apartment suite located at The BoathouseHotel, Patonga — Bed down at The Boathouse Hotel for a cosy stay. (Image: Destination NSW)

Gosford

The Central Coast of NSW is worthy of its own weekend itinerary, but its proximity to the M1 highway makes it a fantastic place to take a break, too. Taking the Gosford turn-off will see you on a road that winds along the coast, right up to Newcastle if you want to beach-hop your way there. Otherwise, Terrigal Beach is a short 15-minute drive and features a pristine, kid-friendly shoreline and plenty of cafes worth enjoying lunch at.

Dolphins in the water at Terrigal Beach — Views of The Haven across the water in Terrigal. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: The Australian Reptile Park

Kids and tourists will find their native Australian wildlife encounters at The Australian Reptile Park , which is located near the M1. Yes, there are plenty of scaly critters to observe, but visitors can also get photos with koalas, feed kangaroos and watch free animal shows daily.

a koala hugging a tree branch — Spot koalas up close at The Australian Reptile Park.

Accommodation: The Quarters

Drive a few minutes up the road from Terrigal Beach, and you’ll find peaceful Forrester’s Beach. The Quarters is a relaxed, well-placed hotel with plenty of room options, including family accommodation and upscale options for couples after a romantic stay.

Lake Macquarie

Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake has something for everyone, really. Fishing enthusiasts will love the 174 kilometres of lake foreshore and will surely catch a few at Swansea, where Lake Macquarie meets the ocean.

Wallarah National Park is nearby and features serene bike riding tracks, and kids will love Speers Point Park and its award-winning playground.

friends enjoying a coastal walk through Wallarah National Park, Lake Macquarie — Rewarding views await you at Wallarah National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: Caves Beach

The stunning Caves Beach is a hive of activity in summer thanks to crystal-clear waters and its stunning, rocky backdrop, but it’s also worth visiting during cooler months. Aside from swimming, the beach is famous for its caves, which visitors can explore at their leisure.

Accommodation: Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie

Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie is a pet-friendly holiday park popular with families and nature enthusiasts. Its position right on the water, with access to walking trails and national parkland, means you’ll never be short on things to do. Relax and enjoy the sunset in a waterfront cabin, or pull up the RV at one of the grass-covered powered sites.

Settle in a waterfront cabin at Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie.

Merewether Beach

Though technically within Newcastle’s bounds, Merewether Beach is a lovely stop worth adding to your Sydney to Newcastle road trip itinerary before you reach the city. This top-rated beach has rockpools, ocean baths and a lengthy boardwalk, making it a popular swimming spot for locals and tourists alike.

an aerial view of Merewether Baths — Find rock pools on the stunning coast of Newcastle at Merewether Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must see: Merewether Ocean Baths

One of the best ocean pools in NSW (and the largest in the southern hemisphere), Merewether Ocean Baths caters to all kinds of swimmers, from those looking to practice laps to families after a safe swimming area for the kids. There are warm showers, plenty of areas to sit and relax, and the baths are close to some wonderful cafes.

an aerial view of Merewether Ocean Baths — Plunge into Merewether Ocean Baths. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Merewether Beach House B&B

Pick from bed-and-breakfast style accommodation or the self-contained cottage at Merewether Beach House B&B , a period home just 150 metres from the beach. Rooms are tastefully decorated, come with free wi-fi and air-conditioning, and can be converted into family-style suite accommodation.

the Merewether Beach House — Fall asleep to the calming sound of waves crashing on the shores by Merewether Beach House.

Newcastle

You’ve made it! With a wealth of things to do and see, dining options that will delight even the most high-brow of foodies, and beaches galore, your stay in Newcastle will undoubtedly be jam-packed. First, settle in, kick up your feet and relax after your Sydney to Newcastle road trip.

the rooftop bar at Romberg's Crystalbrook Kingsley — Drop by Romberg’s for a nightcap. (Image: Destination NSW/ Crystalbrook Kingsley)

Must See: Stockton Sand Dunes

Part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, these dunes run for 32 kilometres and offer something for everyone, from the daredevils to nature lovers. There are many ways to experience the Stockton sand dunes, but a particularly memorable choice is the Aboriginal Culture Sandboarding and Quad Bike tour , which blends cultural education with the thrills of dune adventures.

friends enjoying a Quad Bike tour on Stockton Sand Dunes — Explore Stockton Sand Dunes on a Quad Bike tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Crystalbrook Kingsley

As Newcastle’s first five-star hotel, it’s worth splurging for at least one night at Crystalbrook Kingsley , which tops our list of the best Newcastle accommodation. The hotel recently won the Hotel of the Year at the Australasia-Pacific Hotel Design Awards for its tasteful interiors and architecture.

the lobby at Crystalbrook Kingsley — Enjoy a luxury stay at Crystalbrook Kingsley.

For more inspiration, insider tips and itineraries, read our travel guide to Newcastle.

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.

Take this scenic route on your next Sydney to Newcastle road trip