NSW with Kids: A handy holiday guide
New South Wales
Explore New South Wales with your family
Whether you’re a family of thrill-seekers or nature enthusiasts, New South Wales serves up an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation to keep all ages entertained.
From the capital city of Sydney to coastal holiday hotspots and must-visit NSW country towns, there’s something for everyone.
Dive into our guide below for the top destinations, attractions and places to stay around New South Wales with kids.
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Sydney
Sydney itself is famous the world over for The Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the iconic Sydney ferries. From iconic structures to hidden beaches, historic sights to urban delights, there’s enough to keep your family exploring for months. And all of this is surrounded by glorious national parks!
Hire bikes and explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, perhaps stopping for a picnic at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair; climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and see a show at the Sydney Opera House. Take in 360-degree views of the city from the top of its tallest building, Sydney Tower, and feel like you are walking on air on the highest outdoor viewpoint during the one-hour SKYWALK tour.
Camp overnight in the middle of the Harbour on Cockatoo Island, formerly a convict penal establishment and naval shipyard, and ride the ferris wheel, brave the rollercoasters and challenge yourself in the mirror maze at Luna Park, on the shore of the Harbour at Milsons Point.
NSW South Coast
Have you been dreaming of pristine beaches and fresh seafood by the dock? The South Coast of NSW is the destination for you. It’s home to many of Australia’s top beach holiday destinations, from Shellharbour (on the outskirts of Wollongong) to Kiama, Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and the Sapphire Coast.
Imagine the kids learning to surf on the gentle waves at Kiama or see who’ll be first to spot whales during a Jervis Bay wildlife cruise. The South Coast’s charm lies not only in its picturesque coastline but also in its small towns, each with its unique blend of culture, history, and, of course, delicious cuisine.
Mid North and Barrington Coast
Boasting amazing natural appeal, the Barrington Coast region is a mix of ancient rainforest and stunning coastline. Stretching from Forster in the north, through Pacific Palms to Hawks Nest in the south and inland to Stroud, thren’s plenty for families to see and do.
The Myall Lakes National Park sits as the centerpiece of a network of coastal forests, mangroves, pristine beaches and, of course, the Great Lakes. Between lakes, rivers and beautiful beaches, it’s the perfect destination for whale-watching, fishing, kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and sail boarding.
NSW North Coast
Discover the endless adventure and natural beauty of New South Wales’ North Coast, from the sandy beaches and relaxed lifestyle to the abundant wildlife and amusements.
The NSW North Coast has a lot going for it, from the surfie town of Byron Bay to the hills of Nightcap National Park. Travel up The Legendary Pacific Coast route from Sydney and you will pass through some of the country’s most famous coastal destinations. Fly into Ballina or drive north on The Legendary Pacific Coast that runs all the way to Brisbane from Sydney, and pit stop at beautiful coastal towns, including family favourites Yamba and Evans Head.
Central Coast
Halfway between Sydney and Newcastle, the Central Coast region of NSW is just an hour’s drive north from Sydney, and stretches from the mouth of the Hawkesbury River to the southern end of Lake Macquarie.
So close to the city and yet a world away in lifestyle, families flock to the NSW Central Coast during the holidays and for weekend getaways – from Terrigal and Avoca to Budgewoi, Norah Head and The Entrance and Lake Macquarie – for sand, surf, sun, boating, fishing, camping and relaxing family escapes.
Hunter Region
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature and family in the Hunter Region of NSW. The NSW Hunter region is comprised of the Hunter Valley, the Upper Hunter and Barrington Tops and is nestled in fertile plains, vineyards, and national parks between the Central Coast and Newcastle, less than three hours’ drive north of Sydney.
As well as the vineyards of the Hunter Valley, expect plenty of lush countryside perfect for walking, bike rides, and horse riding; fabulous fresh produce; historic villages and towns; and World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park.
Snowy Mountains
Snowballs, tobogganing, skiing or shredding; there’s so much fun to be had at the snow! Take your pick of the NSW ski resorts for family fun. In spring and summer, challenge your family with a trek to Australia’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko.
Country & Outback NSW
Inland holidays give us the opportunity to learn about life in ‘the bush’; swim and fish in lakes, streams and creeks; delve into caves and climb mountains; soak up our pioneer history; pan for gold; ski and snowboard; learn about our true Aussie cowboys and Australia’s Indigenous heritage; find out first-hand how we farm and shear and muster; pick and eat fresh produce; sit around a campfire; find bush tucker; see galaxies and planets in the clear night sky … and so much more!
Opening image: A family taking a selfie at The Big Banana. © Destination NSW