16 incredible wonders in NSW to discover

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Australia is full of wonders, from icons to the lesser known. Here, we’ve curated 16 wonders from our 100 list that NSW gets to call its very own.

This article is part of our 100 Australian Wonders series. Throughout the series, we explore our nation’s wonders across culture, nature, food, islands and many more. We hope it inspires your own exploration of Australia’s many wonders.

1. Sydney Harbour

Travelling with: Megan Arkinstall

This sparkling natural harbour needs no introduction, so instantly recognisable is its steel arch bridge and white-sailed Opera House. Book a BridgeClimb and jump aboard a ferry to see the beauty and bustle from above and on the water, wander through the historic cobbled streets of The Rocks (book a walking tour with Dreamtime Southern X to learn about it from a First Nations perspective), stroll the Royal Botanic Gardens and take a dip at beaches such as Camp Cove in Watsons Bay or Milk Beach in Vaucluse, with views back towards the famous skyline.

Sydney Harbour views at night
As far as icons go, the spectacular Sydney Harbour is as iconic as they come. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Hunter Valley

Travelling with: Megan Arkinstall

Vignerons in Australia’s oldest wine region have been cultivating grapes since the early 19th century. Dotted among rolling green hills that stretch to the Great Dividing Range are more than 150 wineries with a medley of cellar doors, from sleek and modern (think Vamp by Lisa McGuigan) to charming and boutique (Krinklewood Organic & Biodynamic Estate) and plenty of places to sip vino among the vines, such as Hope Estate.

friends wine tasting at Hope Estate
Sample wines on Hope Estate, set within Australia’s oldest wine region. (Image: Destination NSW)

Semillon is the hero, but chardonnay and shiraz also reap worldwide attention; add to that a slew of hatted restaurants (Muse, Bistro Molines and more) and the Hunter Valley is a satiating destination for oenophiles and gourmands alike.

hot air balloons above Hunter Valley landscape
Soak up magnificent Hunter Valley views from above with Balloon Aloft. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Kiama Blowhole

Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

When the tide is right, the whoosh of water that blasts out of Kiama Blowhole splits the silence open. In fact, when the vertical blowhole on the NSW South Coast hits its peak at more than 30 metres, it is so loud that it drowns out the delighted squeals of the thousands of visitors who congregate here each year. The foundation for this geological wonder – the largest blowhole in the world – was laid from volcanic lava more than 260 million years ago. And while the nearby Little Blowhole is not as flamboyant, it’s also a wonderful place to watch the water wash in.

Kiama Blowhole
Kiama Blowhole releases plumes of water as high as 30 metres. (Image: Kiama Municipal Council)

4. Waterfall Way

Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

Waterfall Way provides nature-lovers with a multitude of reasons to celebrate NSW’s Mid North Coast wilderness. The 185-kilometre-long road trip stretches from the New England highlands all the way to the Coffs Coast through rolling farmland and five national parks.

a bird's-eye view of Wollomombi Falls, NSW
Go chase the Wollomombi Falls. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’ll find nature doing her thing everywhere from the well-known Wollomombi Falls, the highest in NSW, to scenic Ebor Falls, which cascades over tiered columns of granite into a rugged gorge.

The more secluded Tristania Falls in Dorrigo National Park is another waterfall worth chasing.

the Wollomombi Falls in NSW
Wollomombi Falls is the highest waterfall in NSW. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre

Travelling with: Elizabeth Whitehead

Bob Hawke was simultaneously an everyman and an Aussie legend. He holds the highest public approval rating of any Australian prime minister ever due to his social reforms, environmental policies and – perhaps most of all – his ability to down a beer in mere seconds.

a look inside Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre in Marrickville
Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre is dedicated to an Aussie legend. (Image: Jessie Ann Harris)

The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre in Marrickville in Sydney’s Inner West is a fitting tribute to a man who was a quintessential larrikin: rowdy, free-spirited, but above all, good-hearted. The interior is a time capsule of 1980s Australiana, from the Chinese-Australian bistro (the sesame-sprinkled prawn toast is a highlight) to the decor steeped in nostalgia.

The beer is award-winning, crisp and as golden as the era the establishment pines for. All in all, it’s a watering hole that’s tried and true blue.

a spread of food on the table at Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre
The Chinese-Australian bistro serves up classics like the sesame-sprinkled prawn toast.  (Image: Nikki To)

6. Newcastle’s food scene

Travelling with: Megan Arkinstall

Newcastle’s culinary roots are firmly planted in pub culture, with classic watering holes such as The Great Northern and The Beach Hotel given a shake-up in recent years by clever tastemakers who elevate the humble schnitty and schooner experience.

the dining interior of The Beach Hotel, Newcastle
Dine at The Beach Hotel opposite Merewether Beach. (Image: Destination NSW/ Daniel Goldstein)

But it’s a new eclectic roll call of sophisticated eateries that is capturing the attention of cultured palates. Think pan-Asian flavours at pastel-pretty Light Years; fresh and sustainable seafood at local institution Scottie’s; Mediterranean fare with Euro beach club vibes at Blanca; and the ultimate coming together of wine and pasta at one-hatted diner Humbug. Adding to its résumé of beachside beauty a few klicks from wine country, Newcastle can lay claim to being a hot culinary destination, too.

a table-top view of dishes at Humbug, Newcastle
The one-hatted diner Humbug is making waves for its elevated pasta and wine offering. (Image: David Griffen Photography)

7. Tokyo Lamington

Travelling with: Jo Stewart

Putting a Japanese spin on a nostalgic Aussie bakery treat is a risky move, but Sydney’s Tokyo Lamington nails it. Located on the aptly named Australia Street in Newtown, this pocket-sized shop sprung to fame for reinventing the humble lamington.

the love cake at Tokyo Lamington
Take your pick from a range of unique flavour fusions of lamingtons.

Interesting flavour combos such as yuzu meringue, pandan tiramisu and fairy bread popcorn prove that nothing is sacred – and you can indeed improve on the classics. Purists will be pleased to know that there’s also an OG lamington with raspberry jam and vanilla cream in the mix, too. Onigiri, miso mushroom pies and matcha lattes bring an added touch of Japan to the menu.

mini square cakes at Tokyo Lamington
Sink your sweet tooth into these pocket-sized cakes at Tokyo Lamington.

8. Bilpin cideries

Travelling with: Taylah Darnell

The small town of Bilpin on the lesser-traversed side of the Blue Mountains has a generous sprinkling of some of the best cideries in Australia. The cold-winter, mild-summer climate of the region is perfect for growing apples, with a handful of orchards and cideries calling the town home. Head to dog-friendly Hillbilly Cider , a favourite among locals and tourists, for the ultimate Bilpin experience: a small but gorgeous orchard, live music on the weekend, delicious ciders and woodfired pizza year-round.

a couple tasting Hillbilly Cider
Sample Hillbilly Cider in a lively atmosphere. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Sydney Fish Market

Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

The brand-new Sydney Fish Market is taking shape at Blackwattle Bay where the original storied structure sat for some 70 years. In addition to capitalising on the expansive new 1.9-hectare site, this $750 million iteration will, like the original working market, go beyond the sale and distribution of fish.

In fact, the new site is destined to become even more of a draw, a landmark attraction for both Sydneysiders and visitors that will remain an integral part of the city’s fabric well into the future. The complex features a wavy timber and aluminium roof inspired by the ocean that will be utilised for potential energy production, rainwater collection and recycling. While the ground floor will include the working wholesale fish market and auction hall, the upper ground level will feature retailers, restaurants and cafes that revolve around both the land and sea.

Expect all the happy hubbub of the original market and more after its planned move in 2024.

the complex at Sydney Fish Market
The complex at Sydney Fish Market features a wavy timber and aluminium roof inspired by the ocean.

10. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk spaghettis six kilometres along the cliffs, bays and beaches of Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The path that follows the scalloped shoreline provides a spectacle that changes with the many moods of the sea and sky and is one that residents of the city are justifiably proud of. In fact, it’s considered one of Sydney’s greatest assets.

an aerial view of the Bondi Icebergs and surrounds
Take a plunge at Bondi Icebergs. (Image: Destination NSW/Daniel Tran)

Bondi was named after Boondi, the Aboriginal word meaning ‘the noise made by sea waves’. And it’s those crashing waves that continue to capture the imagination of locals and tourists who drift along the winding boulevard from Bondi beholding the bird’s-eye view.

a bird's-eye view of the Bondi Beach in Sydney
Follow the path from Bondi to Coogee in Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW/Lawrence Furzey)

11. Ocean pools of NSW

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

NSW’s coastline has its own architectural vernacular etched into surf-hammered rock all up and down its saw-toothed length.

Newcastle’s heritage-listed Bogey Hole is the state’s oldest ocean pool, originally built by convicts in 1819 for the personal use of Major James Morisset. Unemployment relief and funding for public works programs during the Depression resulted in a subsequent boom of ocean-pool-building in the 1920s and ’30s, as coast-dwellers embraced these safe spaces for saltwater swimming, with some 100 constructed since.

Over time, these pools have become part of the landscape – each shape and size idiosyncratic to its location, from Yamba to Forster, Bondi, Wollongong, Bermagui and Eden.

A liminal space straddling the manmade and natural that speaks not only to a part of Australia’s history but reflects the social and cultural landscape of the country at leisure.

an aerial view of Aslings Beach Rock Pool in Eden
Take a refreshing dip at Aslings Beach Rock Pool in Eden. (Image: Destination NSW/ Dee Kramer)

12. Hawkesbury River

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

Sitting on the balcony with the Hawkesbury River unspooled in front of you like molten silk, watching the colours change as the light fades over the ridges, it’s hard to imagine the centre of Sydney is little over an hour away.

view from Calabash Bay Lodge on Hawkesbury River
Calabash Bay Lodge sits on the Hawkesbury River. (Image: Pablo Veiga)

The luxurious water-access-only Calabash Bay Lodge at a magnificent crook of the river provides total immersion into this other world. This is a place that slows your heart rate and enlivens your soul. You’ll find a boat and kayaks to untether and take out on the water at a most leisurely pace. And dinner cooked by a private chef to retreat back to in the evening.

a boat on the jetty at Calabash Bay Lodge
Brave the river and captain your own boat. (Image: Nicholas Watt)

Book the Ultimate Hawkesbury Pearler’s Package to experience all of this plus a private tour of Broken Bay Pearl Farm’s local oyster leases and ‘shellar door’ to learn the secrets of pearl and oyster harvesting on the river.

Famed two-hatted restaurant Berowra Waters Inn is just a few oar strokes away, too.

the interior of Calabash Bay Lodge on Hawkesbury River
Check into this luxe river lodge on Hawkesbury River. (Image: Pablo Veiga)

13. Bundanon

Travelling with: Imogen Eveson

Cradled by the soft folds of the Shoalhaven landscape, Bundanon is artist Arthur Boyd’s legacy: a wildlife sanctuary set on 1000 hectares that inspired much of his work and that he and wife Yvonne gifted to the nation in 1993. When the long-held dream of embedding an art museum in the landscape was realised in 2022, it marked the start of a new chapter.

the Shoalhaven landscape in Bundanon
Bundanon is an art museum embedded in a wild sanctuary. (Image: Adrian Lander)

Bundanon is many things, and best visited to be understood. Head here to see thought-provoking exhibitions, visit Arthur Boyd’s old paint-daubed studio and stately homestead, and the locavore cafe led by chef Douglas Innes-Will.

Arthur Boyd at Bundanon
Visit Arthur Boyd’s old paint-daubed studio. (Image: Bundanon Archive)

The word Bundanon means ‘deep valley’ in Dharawal and Traditional Owners are consulted on everything from land management to cultural connection.

Absorb it all thoroughly with an overnight stay at the architecturally designed Bridge, which acts as a window to this ancient and absorbing landscape.

the Fantastic Forms installation in Bundanon
See the Fantastic Forms installation in Bundanon. (Image: Zan Wimberley)

14. Tamworth Country Music Festival

Travelling with: Megan Arkinstall

For more than half a century, the Tamworth Country Music Festival has been the national stage for country music, culture and heritage. Big-name artists such as Lee Kernaghan, Troy Cassar-Daley and Kasey Chambers are regulars at the iconic event, with performances across outdoor stages and pubs, a street parade, busking competitions and the Golden Guitar Awards. Giddy up for the 2025 fest, which runs for 10 days from 17-26 January.

crowd sitting on the grass at Tamworth Country Music Festival
Circle Tamworth Country Music Festival on your calendar.

15. Mad Max 2 Museum

Travelling with: Steve Madgwick

You’ll find the Mad Max 2 Museum, a temple of pure quirk and obsession, inspired by one of Ozploitation’s seminal films in the wee outpost of Silverton, north-west of Broken Hill. This ode to the ‘wasteland’ is the brainchild of Adrian and Linda Bennett, superfans who moved from the UK in 2010, driven by a fixation with Mad Max 2 (circa 1981).

the Mad Max 2 Museum in NSW
Mad Max 2 Museum features life-sized characters as well as original and replica vehicles from the film. (Image: Steve Madgwick)

George Miller’s post-apocalyptic movie was filmed nearby at epic outback locations such as Mundi Mundi Lookout. The intentionally ramshackle corrugated shack is stuffed with props (including the leather suit worn by Mel Gibson), black-and-white production stills and a stable of trademark beasty cars from the franchise.

The pilgrims will flow on, thanks to Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) and this year’s release of spin-off Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

a vintage car in front of Silverton Hotel
Check into the Silverton Hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

16. Mungo National Park

Travelling with: Taylah Darnell

Follow Herman Ugarte of Outback Geo Adventures up the Walls of China in Mungo National Park and you’ll see that the edges of long-anhydrous Lake Mungo are still visible. Fragments of fish otoliths poke out of the hard sand, dating back some 18,000 years.

the geological landscape at Mungo National Park, NSW
Witness the rugged landscapes of Mungo National Park unfold before you. (Image: Destination NSW)

The age of things here is something to marvel at; Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, discovered in 1968 and 1974 respectively, are around 42,000 years old and some of the oldest human remains found anywhere in Australia. Turn around at the top and watch this landscape unfold before you, where emus and roos share ancient land and mallee gums shade native bush tomatoes from the blazing sun.

kangaroos at Mungo National Park
Spot kangaroos roaming around Mungo National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)
Keep reading our 100 Australian Wonders series; from road trips, outback and cultural wonders to foodie wonders and many more.
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Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole
See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast
Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior
Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast
Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital
Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf  serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie
Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast
Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast
Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple
Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park
Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Novotel Wollongong Northbeach
Fall asleep listening to the waves.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.