17 Best Day Trips From Sydney By Car (By A Local)!
LOOKING FOR THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM SYDNEY BY CAR?
Sydney is full of weekend potential, and if you’re anything like us, you’ve probably asked yourself: where can I go for a quick getaway without spending hours planning? If you’ve got a spare day, just moved to the city, or need a quick escape, you’ll find plenty of incredible day trips only a couple of hours away.
We’ve lived in Sydney for over five years and have spent so many weekends checking out the best day trips by car. From walking through ancient Aboriginal lands in the Royal National Park to watching the sun dip behind mountain lookouts or sipping wine in rolling vineyards, some of the best adventures are much closer than you think.
This guide includes 17 of our favourite day trips from Sydney by car. And if you’re travelling with kids, don’t have a car, or want something a little more romantic, scroll down to the end, we’ve added a few bonus suggestions just for you. Let’s help you swap screen time for sunshine, one day trip at a time!
How to Rent the Cheapest Car in Sydney
While you can travel to some of these places by trains, we highly recommend renting a car if you don’t have one. The service we use and recommend is Discover Cars. This online company compares the rates of all local and international companies such as Budget, Sixt, Hertz, etc, to give you the best price available!
Don’t have a car? Here are some unique day trips from Sydney by public transport!
17 Best Day Trips From Sydney
1. Blue Mountains
Credit: Destination NSW
The Blue Mountains are a World Heritage-listed area just an hour and a half drive from Sydney. This place is pure beauty, and you’ll know exactly what I mean when you see the rock formations, vast wilderness, and native bushland. It’s also home to Scenic World, one of our favourite Sydney bucket list experiences. Almost everything here holds a record, from the steepest railway to the highest cableway in the Southern Hemisphere! To plan your entire trip from Sydney, refer to our Scenic World Guide.
Once you’ve ticked off Scenic World, take the time to drive up to a few nearby lookouts. Eagle Hawk Lookout and Cahill’s Lookout are two of my top picks. Then make your way to Echo Point for the best view of the famous Three Sisters before heading back to Sydney. If you’re planning to visit specifically for Scenic World, keep in mind that it usually takes around three to four hours.
2. Glenworth Valley
Okay, this is one I literally underrated! Just one hour from Sydney CBD, this 3000-acre wilderness is perfect for anyone looking to glamp, be around majestic horses, be one with nature, and challenge themselves with some soul-wrenching adventure like quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, and state-of-the-art laser skirmish! Glenworth Valley is one of Australia’s largest horse riding and outdoor adventure centres!
Start your day with some adventures. There are pony rides if you are travelling with your kids, and for the parents, don’t worry, quad biking has got your back! We highly recommend extending the day trip and glamping here! Relax in your tent as you experience glamping under the clear skies and unspoilt wilderness! You can read our full guide to luxury glamping in Glenworth.
3. Wollondilly
Watch our reel of Wollondilly here!
Want to step out of the busy world of Sydney and into some country charm without going too far? I got you. Wollondilly is just over an hour from the CBD and makes a lovely little escape.
Kick off your day with a private tour at the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary, then grab a delicious bite and a good coffee at Picton Social. In the afternoon, swing by the NSW Rail Museum where you’ll find a 120-year-old steam locomotive still on display. Wrap things up at the Wollondilly Lookout in Bullio with a few cupcakes and a view. The lookout gives you sweeping scenes of the mountains and Nattai National Park, it’s such a peaceful way to end the day.
4. Wollongong
Wollongong sits 80 kilometres, or around an hour’s drive, from Sydney CBD and is one of our favourite recommendations for day trips from Sydney by car! It has beautiful beaches and plenty of adventurous activities. Just 13 minutes from the city centre is Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Watch our reel here!
There is a vegetarian cafe by the name Dew Drop Inn, which serves fresh, delicious meals until 4.30 pm. Combine exploring the Wollongong Art Gallery, Wollongong Beach, and Flagstaff Point Lighthouse before heading back to Sydney.
5. Northern Beaches
Sydney locals are a bit spoiled; we’re surrounded by stunning beaches, so it’s easy to forget what a bad one looks like!
Manly marks the beginning of the Northern Beaches, which stretch all the way up to Palm Beach (that one’s a full day trip on its own, coming up next). Start your adventure in Manly, soak up the coastal vibe, then drive about 25 minutes to Narrabeen. Narrabeen Beach is known for the Northern Break, a surf spot that has shaped world champions. You’ve got over three kilometres of sand here, running from Long Reef in the south to the entrance of Narrabeen Lagoon in the north. It’s one of our top picks if you’re craving a proper beach day.
Before you call it a day, stop at Mona Vale Headland Reserve for sweeping views over Mona Vale Beach. Bring a picnic, take your time, and enjoy the peaceful stretch of coast; it’s definitely worth lingering a while.
6. Newcastle
Newcastle is Australia’s second oldest city, located just a two hour drive north of Sydney. Much like Sydney, except without the large crowds, Newcastle is known for its beaches and harbour! While we are recommending Newcastle as a day trip from Sydney, you can easily spend two or three days here, it’s extremely beautiful to explore! Start your day with Newcastle Beach, and head to Fort Scratchley if you are looking for the best lookout point here. Swim in the Bogey Hole, which was carved out of rock back in 1819, and do a 450-metre walk at the Anzac Memorial Walkway. For lunch and snack, we recommend checking out House of Tides and Tiny Tiny or formerly known as Flat Caps Coffee.
We recommend planning a trip here on a weekend as the Newcastle City Farmers Market at Newcastle Showground and The Olive Tree Markets (which happen once a month) are events not to be missed if you love vintage stuff!
7. Palm Beach
Did you know Home and Away was filmed right here? Palm Beach, just about an hour’s drive from Sydney, is a gem for both whale watching and the iconic Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk. From the short hike to the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Northern Beaches and the wild beauty of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
If you’re a fan of visiting filming locations, book a Home and Away Location Tour. While you’re here, spend some time surfing, take on the lighthouse walk, or settle in for a leisurely lunch at The Boathouse under twinkling fairy lights, it’s especially magical at sunset. For details on the walk, check out our guide to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk.
The best time to spt whales here is around May and November, with mid-June to mid-July being the peak, you might spot humpback whales migrating along the coast. It’s a magical sight! For more details, refer to our whale watching guide.
8. Kangaroo Valley
Looking for a day trip from Sydney by car that ticks all the boxes: stunning waterfalls, scenic hikes, river adventures, charming vintage architecture, and some of the coziest pubs? Kangaroo Valley fits the bill. It’s about a two-hour drive from Sydney CBD and absolutely worth the trip.
Make a stop at Fitzroy Falls on your way to see one of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls. Once you arrive in Kangaroo Valley, refuel with great food, relax by the river, and later stretch your legs on the Three Views Walking Track in Morton National Park, it’s a rewarding walk with beautiful views of the Shoalhaven Gorge and Ettrema Wilderness. You can read more about the Three Views Walk on the official Kangaroo Valley website.
Feeling adventourous? Try kayaking on the Kangaroo River or join a Kangaroo Valley Safari, where you might spot kingfishers, rock wallabies, diamond pythons, or even a water dragon. For lunch, we recommend The General Café.
9. Hunter Valley
Unless you’re taking a hot air balloon ride over Hunter Valley, you can start your day a bit later and still enjoy one of Australia’s top wine regions. This place is all about good vibes, stunning scenery, and, of course, great wine!
We recommend visiting Wilkinson, one of the oldest vineyards in the region, along with Running Horse Wines and Whispering Brook. For lunch and dinner, we recommend Circa 1876 Restaurant and Hunters Quarter.
10. Kiama
Kiama is a seaside town about a two-hour drive from Sydney, known for its beaches, blowholes, volcanic rock formations, and beautiful coastal walks! Once you get here, we recommend starting with the Kiama Coastal Walk, which stretches 12 km from Loves Bay to Werri Lagoon.
After that, visit the Kiama Blowhole, one of the largest of its kind in the world, and finish your day with a stop at the Kiama Lighthouse. For lunch, we recommend By the Sea Takeaway for a relaxed beachside takeaway experience and The Hungry Monkey for a cozy meal.
11. Port Stephens
Just under 2.5 hours north of Sydney CBD (about 210 km), Port Stephens makes a dreamy coastal escape perfect for a full-day adventure. Known for its sparkling blue bays, dolphin cruises, and the towering Stockton Sand Dunes, this seaside town is where beachy relaxation meets outdoor fun.
You’ll find over 20 beaches in the area, each with its own vibe, family-friendly Shoal Bay, surfer’s haven One Mile Beach, or the calm shores of Fingal Bay. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Port Stephens!
Start your day with a dolphin-watching cruise or a kayak session on the bay. Next up, hike up Tomaree Head Summit for panoramic ocean views; it’s a short but steep climb that’s absolutely worth it. Spend the afternoon sandboarding at the Stockton Dunes or snorkelling around Fly Point.
Wrap things up with a stroll along the Nelson Bay Marina before heading back. For lunch, go to The Little Nel Café in Nelson Bay, or try The Point Restaurant at Soldiers Point for seafood with a view. Port Stephens. This might make for a very long day, which is why we recommend starting early!
12. Royal National Park
Just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney CBD (about 36 km), Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world and a nature lover’s dream. It’s known for dramatic coastal cliffs, lush rainforest trails, and swimming spots tucked away in the bush. From waterfalls to wildflowers, this park squeezes a lot into one day and is perfect for a spontaneous road trip.
Start your day with the iconic Figure Eight Pools walk. Make sure to check the risk forecast on the NSW National Parks site before heading out. After that, swing by Wattamolla Beach for a picnic and a swim in the calm lagoon. If you’ve still got some energy, the coastal walk between Garie Beach and Eagle Rock is absolutely worth it, especially around sunset. You can wrap up your day with a peaceful drive back through the Audley picnic area.
For lunch, Audley Dance Hall Café near the Hacking River is a lovely spot. The Scarborough Hotel is ahas great reviews too.
13. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is the second oldest national park in Australia. You can get here in less than an hour from Sydney CBD! As you enter the park through the Turramurra entry point, make a stop at the visitor centre to learn about the place, the Guringai people, and spot some cute Eastern Grey Kangaroos! Down for some adventure? Head to Bobbin Head for kayaking!
Later in the day, opt for one of the walks, like the Basin Track engraving site walk, the Elvina Aboriginal rock engraving track, and conclude your day! Visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service page as you plan your trip to know about the park fees, the pass required to enter any national parks, and an overview of the place.
For lunch, we recommend Shed, which has great reviews, and the Waterside Bistro. Bobbin Inn Café is also a great café at Bobbin Head!
14. Long Jetty
Just an hour and a half north of Sydney, Long Jetty is a charming little town on the Central Coast that makes for a slow-paced day trip. The main strip along Central Coast Highway (between Thompson and Stella Streets) is lined with quirky vintage stores, including the popular Webster’s Vintage, a real treasure trove if you love a good browse.
The town gets its name from NSW’s longest jetty, and walking along it during sunset is pretty iconic. You can also cycle the 12-kilometre lakeside path between The Entrance and Chittaway Bay, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the beauty of Tuggerah Lake. Find the best things to do in Long Jetty on the Central Coast NSW website.
If you’re travelling with kids, swing by Lions Park or one of the local playgrounds to let them burn off some energy. For a bite, Green Tangerine nails the brunch game, and Komuniti is a great pick for lunch.
15. Dangar Island
Dangar Island is a car-free island, sitting at the entrance to the Hawkesbury River and home to the friendliest locals! It is very small, around 30 hectares in size, and home to around 300 people. It’s covered in bushland, tall palm trees, and various wildlife species out here! For an even more relaxing day trip from Sydney, come here! Walk around Dangar Island, have brunch at the beautiful Dangar Island Depot, and cool off at Bradley’s Beach!
16. Berry
Berry is one of the most popular day trips from Sydney, known for its charming boutiques and country-town feel. You’ll be attracted by the unique local shops here, where you’ll find everything from homewares and fashion to artisan foods. Time your visit with the first Sunday of the month to catch the lively Farmers Market, filled with fresh produce and handmade goods.
After shopping, head to one of the region’s standout wineries, either Two Figs Winery, with sweeping views over the Shoalhaven River, or Silos Estate, where the vineyards share space with resident alpacas. If you’ve still got energy, drop by The Treat Factory for handmade chocolates and gourmet goodies. For meals, don’t miss The Dairy Bar, The Berry Tea Shop, or The Emporium.
17. Lake Macquarie
We’ve saved the best for last! Lake Macquarie is Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake and it’s just a two-hour drive from Sydney. Kick things off at the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), where you’ll find striking local works and even a fun “Art by You” program.
Next, stretch your legs on the Wangi Circuit Walking Track. You’ll wander through peaceful bushland filled with wattle, coastal banksia, and native orchids. Keep your eyes peeled for squirrel gliders, lorikeets, and even kangaroos along the way! Conclude your day at Speers Point Park, where you can enjoy a picnic by the lake or visit the Multi-Arts Pavilion (mima), a contemporary art space hosting digital installations and audio presentations.
Our Recommendations: Day Trips From Sydney
Day Trips From Sydney For Couples
If you’re planning a romantic day out with your partner, these destinations are perfect for slow drives, long lunches, and beautiful scenery:
- Berry
- Kangaroo Valley
- Hunter Valley
- Dangar Island
- Long Jetty
Day Trips From Sydney Without A Car
No car? No worries. These places are all easy to reach using public transport from the Sydney CBD:
- Blue Mountains (train to Katoomba)
- Palm Beach (B-Line bus to Mona Vale, then local bus)
- Wollongong (direct train from Central)
- Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (train to Berowra or Mount Ku-ring-gai)
- Newcastle (NSW TrainLink from Central)
Best Day Trips From Sydney for Families
These spots offer a mix of fun, nature, and easy travel, ideal for a relaxed family day out:
- Glenworth Valley
- Lake Macquarie
- Blue Mountains
- Kiama
- Wollongong
FAQs: Day Trips From Sydney By Car
Now that you know our list of the best day trips from Sydney, I’ve answered a few of the frequently asked questions below:
What is the Best Road Trip from Sydney?
One of the best day trips you can do from Sydney is the drive down to Kiama along the Grand Pacific Drive. It’s a full day out with ocean views, clifftop stops, and peaceful coastal towns. The route takes you through the Royal National Park, across the scenic Sea Cliff Bridge, and past lookouts like Bald Hill before reaching Kiama. Once you’re there, you can check out the Blowhole, explore the coastal walk, and grab lunch at one of the cafes near the waterfront. If you feel like driving a bit further, Berry and Gerringong are not too far away and both are lovely spots to spend an hour or two. It’s the kind of road trip that feels like a real getaway without needing to stay overnight.
Where Can I Drive Two Hours From Sydney?
There are plenty of great places to visit within a two hour drive. The Blue Mountains is a popular pick for its walking tracks, mountain views, and charming towns like Leura and Katoomba. If you prefer a coastal day out, you can head north to Palm Beach and walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, or drive south to Wollongong with a stop at the Royal National Park on the way. Bowral in the Southern Highlands is also a great choice for garden strolls, bakeries, and local shops. All of these are easy to reach by car and make for a refreshing change of scene from the city.
Is Canberra A Day Trip From Sydney?
Canberra is just over three hours by car, so it is possible to do in a day but it makes for a long one. If you leave early, you can still fit in some major highlights like Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and a walk around Lake Burley Griffin. Questacon is a fun stop if you’re travelling with kids. But to be honest, you’ll enjoy it a lot more if you can stay the night. That way, there’s time to explore a few museums, grab dinner in the city, and take it at your own pace.
Which City is One Hour Drive Away From Sydney?
One of the most popular cities, about an hour’s drive from Sydney, is Wollongong. It’s a coastal gem with stunning beaches, sea cliff views, and a laid-back vibe. The drive itself, especially via the Grand Pacific Drive, is incredibly scenic, passing through Royal National Park and over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. It’s a favourite for beach lovers, surfers, and anyone looking for a quick escape from the city.
The Wrap-Up: Day Trips From Sydney
That’s a wrap on some of the best day trips from Sydney by car! Most of these spots are great to visit year-round, but it’s always a good idea to check the local tourism websites for weather updates and seasonal changes before you head out.
Got a question or want to share your favourite stop? Feel free to DM us on Instagram, we love hearing from you and helping you plan your next getaway!
