posted on November 20, 2023
From stunning beaches to charming country towns and World Heritage-listed national parks, Sydney offers the perfect starting point for a memorable road trip. Whether you’re looking for a day trip that gets you out of the city, or planning on a family holiday that sees you explore the coast, you’ll find a number of must-see locations within just a few hours of driving.
As the capital of New South Wales, Sydney has plenty of room to explore. You’ll find a diverse landscape that takes you from bustling city scenes to green mountains and the remote countryside in a matter of hours. With stunning coastal drives, a road trip from Sydney makes for an accessible and comfortable experience.
The only issue? With so many adventures to choose from, deciding on one can be tough. We’ve rounded up your ultimate guide to the best road trips from Sydney, complete with itineraries and top destinations so you can hit the road.
An overview of the best road trips from Sydney
As the most populous city in Australia, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Sydney. From a scenic drive along Sea Cliff Bridge to the charming country towns of the Hunter Valley and the endless vistas of the Blue Mountains National Park, these destinations are just a drive away.
Ready to hit the road on an epic Sydney road trip adventure but don’t know where to start? We’ve got your back. In this complete guide to Sydney’s best road trips, we’ll take you through:
- The best one-day road trips from Sydney
- The best three-day road trips from Sydney
- The best five-day road trips in Sydney
- The best places to stop in Sydney
- Final tips for the road trip of a lifetime
One-day road trips from Sydney
Whether you’re a local looking for a day trip out of the city or an international traveller short on time, either way, you’re spoiled for one-day road trips from Sydney. Simply hit the road and within a few hours, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature, trading urban streets for mountain air or pristine beaches.
Sydney is the perfect location to hit the road as you venture on an unforgettable road trip. So, what are you waiting for? These must-see spots are calling, even if you’ve got limited time to spare.
Port Stephens
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 208 kilometres
Port Stephens is an adventure seeker’s dream and the perfect one day road trip destination. With a number of outdoor activities to satisfy every traveller, it’s also known for having the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere – perfect for quad-biking down.
Make the three-hour drive from Sydney and find yourself entranced by the abundant bottlenose dolphins. Why not go kayaking in the pristine waters of Shoal Bay, where you can get up close and personal with the marine life? With restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional foods, you can also soak up the Indigenous history of the area.
Grand Pacific Drive
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 60 kilometres
As the saying goes, sometimes it’s not about the destination but the journey itself. To explore Grand Pacific Drive by car is to know just that, as the 140-kilometre scenic coastal drive offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean over Sea Cliff Bridge and the coastal towns of Shellharbour, Wollongong, and Kiama.
You won’t find a more scenic drive than this from Sydney. Stop at Stanwell Tops and watch the hang gliders fly overhead before making your way along Sea Cliff Bridge. This iconic bridge hugs the sandstone cliffs along the coastline, so you’ll be treated to grand views for the duration of the drive.
Be sure to stop at the coastal town of Gerringong along the Grand Pacific Drive to take in its relaxed atmosphere as you explore its beautiful beaches. You’ll be able to view whales and dolphins from the shore or get the wetsuit on for a spot of surfing.
Blue Mountains National Park
- Drive time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 80-100 kilometres
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, the Blue Mountains National Park is not to be missed. Promising one of Australia’s best views and abundant walking trails, you can leave the city behind and immerse yourself in natural wonders.
Hike along the Grand Canyon to experience the beauty of waterfalls, sandstone walls, and native animals. Visit lookouts like Echo Point for sweeping views of the mountains that will leave you inspired. There’s also the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah, where you can take in colourful floral displays.
With the Three Sisters rock formations famous worldwide and 26 intriguing villages located throughout the sprawling site, there’s something to keep everyone entertained on this day trip from Sydney. Enjoy a bite to eat in the charming country towns of Katoomba and Blackheath as you soak up the laid back charm of the Blue Mountains region, or go horse riding through the countryside.
Hunter Valley
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 244.2 kilometres
As Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley is home to 120 wineries, as well as luxury hotels, boutique resorts and an incredible dining scene. And at just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, it makes for a memorable day trip.
From golf courses to sprawling gardens and incredible wineries, there’s no shortage of things to do. The region is also famed for its hot air balloon rides, where you can rise high above the vineyards for an unbeatable view.
For those who want to experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley from another perspective, hire a bike to ride through rolling hills and charming country laneways. You’ll pass dairy farms where you can stop for a relaxed lunch along the scenic route. Horse riding is also an option for those looking to connect with nature.
Tip from the author: Home to a number of award-winning restaurants, the Hunter Valley is a great spot for those looking to brush up on their cooking skills. Many restaurants offer fantastic classes that allow you to shadow the chef and are inspired by local produce that’s in season at the time. From June to August, you can expect to cook with truffles, while December will see you master the Christmas feast.
Palm Beach
- Drive time: 1 hour
- Distance from Sydney: 44 kilometres
Just an hour’s drive from Sydney, feel your troubles melt away as you take in the panoramic coastal views of Palm Beach. With sun-kissed sand and a thriving surf scene, Palm Beach is the ultimate destination for those who want a relaxing time by the water.
Here, you can enjoy a bite to eat at The Boathouse, go kayaking, or tee off at Palm Beach Golf Course. For the adventurers who live for sweeping views, make the hike to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, where you’ll take in the sandy dunes and sparkling waters 91 metres above sea level.
Royal National Park
- Drive time: 1 hour
- Distance from Sydney: 36 kilometres
Offering a scenic route along the coastal cliffs, the road trip from Sydney to the Royal National Park will see you reconnect with nature. You’ll find yourself surrounded by eucalyptus bushland as you hike through the national park, taking in the beautiful sandstone cliffs and picturesque waters below.
For those wanting a challenge, consider taking on the Coast track in the national park where you can see the renowned Wedding Cake Rock. This popular rock formation is very fragile, so it’s important to respect the signage and remain behind the fence. Even so, the location makes for a memorable trip that will take you through seasonal wildflowers, countless lookouts, epic swimming spots and vantage points for whale watching.
Kiama and the Blowhole
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 130 kilometres
This idyllic seaside town presents the perfect escape for those who are short on time but want to escape Sydney’s bustling city. The seaside village of Kiama will see you relax instantly, with cute cafes along the coast offering culinary delights. You’ll definitely want to make time for Kiama’s famous Ice Creamery!
Of course, no trip to Kiama is complete without a visit to the Kiama Blowhole. As the waves spurt up through a crevasse in the cliff, you can’t help but be entertained as it forms a salty fountain before your eyes.
For sporting enthusiasts, a rural golf course offers a scenic spot of gold, while the Kiama Coast Walk allows you to enjoy the natural landscape where lush green cliffs collide with rocky shores and rivers. If you fancy yourself more of a sea mammal, consider water sports or activities like surfing, dolphin-watching cruises, or kayaking tours.
Jervis Bay
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Distance from Sydney: 196 kilometres
Three hours south of Sydney, you’ll find the jewel of the New South Wales South Coast in the form of Jervis Bay. With its cascading waterfalls, secluded white sand beaches, and abundant marine life, you’ll feel a world away from Sydney’s city.
It might appear as the perfect image of relaxation, but there’s no shortage of things to do at Jervis Bay. With crystal blue oceans and endless surfing spots, you’ll be able to enjoy a picnic right on the beach, or take a hiking path along Huskisson or Chinamans Beach. And if all that wasn’t enough, there’s also Hyams Beach, which once held the Guinness Book of Records for the world’s whitest sand.
For wildlife enthusiasts, you’ll have plenty of sightings. Residents of Jervis Bay include a number of dolphin pods, fairy penguins, seals, and dolphins.
Looking for a detailed itinerary to plan your Sydney to Jervis Bay road trip? We’ve pulled together a local’s guide to this incredible coastal journey.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
- Drive time: 40 minutes
- Distance from Sydney: 27 kilometres
You need only travel 40 minutes from Sydney along the M1 and Bobbin Head Road to find yourself transported to a new world entirely. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is not to be missed. This heritage-listed park doesn’t just showcase the incredible beauty and varied landscapes that make Australia so special but also has an important history.
You can drive through much of the park or choose a hiking path as you take in winding creeks, stunning rainforests, the aroma of eucalypts, and steep sandstone cliffs. Covering the area where the Hawkesbury River meets the sea, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers numerous lookouts over the ocean and many sacred Aboriginal sites. It does cost $12 per vehicle per day to enter the park, but we can assure you that it’s worth it.
Three-day road trips from Sydney
With so much to see and do in New South Wales, it demands more time. If you’ve got a few days to spare, these make for a perfect multi-day road trip from Sydney.
Jervis Bay and Southern Highlands
- Drive time: 3 hours 15 minutes (one way)
- Driving distance: 220 kilometres (one way)
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Kangaroo Valley: 2 hours, 158 kilometres
- Day 2 – Kangaroo Valley to Jervis Bay: 1 hour, 62 kilometres
- Day 3 – Jervis Bay to Sydney: 3 hours, 211 kilometres
While the road trip from Sydney to Jervis Bay can be done in one day, the beautiful coastline and secluded beaches deserve more time. With countless stops along the way like Bowral and Fitzroy Falls, there’s plenty to keep you entertained for a three-day voyage.
From Sydney, venture into the Southern Highlands, where you’ll feel like you’ve suddenly slipped into a quaint English countryside village. With eateries and cafes offering delicious baked goods and coffee, you can fuel up before continuing on your way.
Kangaroo Valley is a must-see attraction, offering farms, rainforests, endless rivers, and exceptional dining for you to peruse at your leisure. The small south coast village is a hidden gem and you can explore the area on foot, by car, or by kayak. There’s also the historic Hampden Bridge, which at 125 years old, is one of the last surviving wooden suspension bridges in Australia.
Tip from the author: Don’t forget to stop at Fitzroy Falls along the way to Kangaroo Valley. With a number of breathtaking waterfalls, you can hike through the area as you watch them cascade over the valley.
Newcastle
- Drive time: 2.5 hours (one way)
- Driving distance: 170 kilometres (one way)
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Central Coast: 1 hour, 78 kilometres
- Day 2 – Central Coast to Newcastle: 1.5 hours, 94 kilometres
- Day 3 – Newcastle to Sydney: 2.5 hours, 157 kilometres
This road trip to Newcastle will take you along the beautiful coastline of New South Wales as you encounter the laidback charm of the Central Coast. You’ll drive past the Australian Reptile Park in Somersby, which is home to Australian wildlife and reptiles.
Known for its panoramic coast views and rich history, Newcastle is the perfect place to spend a day soaking in the sights. For the history buffs, there’s plenty to learn at Newcastle Museum or Fort Scratchley. Otherwise, take a walk along Bathers Way, a coastal walkway that connects several of the city’s tranquil beaches. With sweeping views, delightful cafes, and a vibrant surf culture, Newcastle deserves a visit for those planning a road trip from Sydney.
Kosciuszko National Park
- Drive time: 5 hours (one way)
- Driving distance: 459 kilometres (one way)
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Jindabyne: 5 hours, 459 kilometres
- Day 2 – Explore Kosciuszko National Park (no driving required)
- Day 3 – Snowy Mountains to Sydney: 5 hours, 416 kilometres
The drive to Kosciuszko National Park offers countless places to stop off and explore along the way. Consider making a stop in Canberra, where you can visit popular attractions like Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia. For those simply wanting to explore the outdoors in all their glory, make your way to Jindabyne, where you can take in sweeping views of the lake before heading into Kosciuszko National Park.
With countless hikes available in the park, you can choose from moderate walks to round trips that take you right up to the summit. For the sporting enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies, you can go mountain biking in the area or take a tour of the Yarrangobilly Caves where you can enjoy a swim in the thermal pool.
In just three days, this trip allows you to take in the incredible views of the Snowy Mountains, Snowy River, and the natural beauty of Kosciuszko National Park.
Tip from the author: Pack a tent and supplies to treat yourself to an outdoor adventure as you camp under the stars. It’s sure to make for a truly memorable camping experience.
Five-day road trips from Sydney
Looking for an extended adventure that allows you to take in more of the key attractions New South Wales has to offer? We’ve got you covered with the best five-day NSW road trips from Sydney.
The New South Wales South Coast
- Drive time: 13 hours
- Driving distance: 1,021 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Jervis Bay via Kiama: 3 hours, 200 kilometres
- Day 2 – Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay: 2 hours, 145 kilometres
- Day 3 – Batemans Bay to Bermagui: 90 minutes, 101 kilometres
- Day 4: Bermagui to Eden: 90 minutes, 95 kilometres
- Day 5: Eden to Sydney via Berry: 6 hours 15 minutes, 480 kilometres
Known for its idyllic beaches and stunning countryside, there’s so much to explore along the NSW South Coast. Leave the troubles of the city behind as you journey through Kiama, Jervis Bay, and Mollymook beach.
On your way back to Sydney, take the Grand Pacific Drive to Berry where you can witness small village charm come to life. With a vibrant food scene and local shops, you’ll find an assortment of baked goods and artisan products to sustain you on the drive home.
Tip from the author: Looking for a road trip itinerary to Batemans Bay? We’ve got you covered with the best scenic route.
Sydney to Melbourne road trip
- Drive time: 20 hours via the Coastal Route
- Driving distance: 1,432 kilometres
The drive from Sydney to Melbourne doesn’t disappoint, delivering scenic views of Australia’s east coast. Across the five days, you’ll encounter a changing landscape that takes in turquoise waters and sandy beaches to lush greens and roaming plains.
While there’s plenty to do in Melbourne with its famous laneways filled with cafes, vibrant street art, and hidden bars, be sure to make stops on your way there. Along the coastal route, you’ll be able to visit Jervis Bay, Mollymook, and Kiama, where you can spend time whale-watching or enjoy a quick surf.
Byron Bay road trip
- Drive time: 17 hours
- Driving distance: 1,570 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Port Macquarie: 5 hours, 393 kilometres
- Day 2 – Port Macquarie to Yamba: 3 hours, 286 kilometres
- Day 3 – Yamba to Byron Bay: 1 hour 25 minutes, 127 kilometres
- Day 4: Explore Byron Bay and its surroundings
- Day 5: Byron Bay to Sydney: 7 hours 56 minutes, 764 kilometres
The Sydney to Byron Bay road trip is a must do – there’s a reason Byron Bay has become a popular destination for locals and international travellers alike (not to mention Hollywood’s biggest celebrities). With its relaxed atmosphere, diverse community of artists, and active lifestyle, Byron Bay tempers its surf culture with a thriving cultural scene.
It might be a hub for spiritual and wellness activities, including yoga retreats and meditation centres, but Byron Bay also has several walking trails that offer stunning views of the coast. Head to the Cape Byron Lighthouse – the easternmost point of mainland Australia – and watch the whales during migration season. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants offering local and fresh ingredients, as well as local markets selling artisan products.
Road trip to the capital of Australia: Canberra
- Drive time: 8 hours
- Driving distance: 595 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Bowral: 2 hours, 117 kilometres
- Day 2 – Bowral to Goulburn: 1 hour, 80 kilometres
- Day 3 – Goulburn to Canberra: 1 hour, 89 kilometres
- Day 4 – Explore Canberra
- Day 5 – Canberra to Sydney: 4 hours, 309 kilometres
It would be remiss not to visit the capital of Australia when looking for a road trip from Sydney. With sealed roads providing a comfortable driving experience, you can focus your attention on what to do at your destination and various stops along the way.
In Canberra, you’ll be treated to a mix of historical sites and cultural experiences, from a tour of the Australian Institute of Sport to Parliament House and the Royal Australian Mint. Still, the capital of Australia has plenty to offer nature lovers. Take a scenic stroll along Lake George, and visit the village of Sutton Forest and the National Botanic Gardens.
The Pacific Coast touring route
Looking to make a holiday out of your road trip? One of the best New South Wales has to offer is that of the Pacific Coast drive, which takes you from the bustling city life of Sydney to the sand dunes of Port Stephens, the ancient rainforest walks of Byron Bay, and beyond. Whether you’re travelling solo or looking to create memories with family and friends, there are plenty of stops along the way as you take in the stunning landscapes of each region.
- Drive time: 12 hours (nine days duration)
- Driving distance: 1000 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Sydney to Newcastle: 2 hours 15 minutes, 169 kilometres
- Day 2 – Newcastle to Pokolbin: 1 hour, 62 kilometres
- Day 3 – Pokolbin to Port Stephens: 1.5 hours, 101 kilometres
- Day 4 – Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour: 4 hours 6 minutes, 388 kilometres
- Day 5 – Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay: 2.5 hours, 238 kilometres
- Day 6 – Explore Byron Bay
- Day 7 – Byron Bay to Gold Coast Hinterland: 1 hour 16 minutes, 96 kilometres
- Day 8 – Explore the Gold Coast
- Day 9 – Gold Coast to Brisbane: 56 minutes, 73 kilometres
With Turo, you can arrange pick-up and drop-off of your hire car at locations to suit your travel needs, giving you the freedom to explore NSW and beyond. This trip is perfect for those looking to explore the Gold Coast and the many scenic spots on the East Coast.
Upon reaching the Gold Coast, go for a hike along the Gold Coast Hinterland Walk. The 54-kilometre walking track takes you through stunning rainforests and native flora. You’ll also be treated to a number of wildlife along the way. At night, catch the city lights from a new perspective on SkyPoint Climb, which gives you the highest vantage point on the Gold Coast.
Hidden places to visit in Sydney by car
Go off the well-worn path and explore the hidden gems of Sydney, all from the comfort of behind the wheel.
Glenworth Valley
Just an easy hour’s drive north of Sydney, you’ll find the green fields of Glenworth Valley. With secluded cabins offering the ultimate immersive experience in nature, Glenworth Valley also serves as a camping ground for families and campers simply wanting a taste of the outdoors. From quad-biking to kayaking and horse riding to walking trails, there’s plenty to see and do.
Wallagoot Gap
Located in Bournda National Park on the South Coast of NSW, this secret spot is worth the four-hour drive from Sydney. Head south along the Princes Highway towards Wollongong before approaching the towns of Tathra and Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast.
You’ll find signs directing you to the Bournda National Park with parking areas near Wallagoot Gap. From there, it’s just a short walk to the beach where you can explore the rocky coastline, natural surroundings, and serenity of the coast.
Dorrigo National Park
A World Heritage-listed site, Dorrigo National Park is located five hours from Sydney. It is nested along the Waterfall Way scenic drive, and boasts stunning hiking trails including the popular Skywalk and Wonga Walk, so you can be sure that you’ll find yourself immersed in nature. Known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Dorrigo National Park is well worth the visit for those looking for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Gardens of Stone National Park
Located 3.5-hours out of Sydney along the Great Western Highway and passing through the town of Lithgow, the Gardens of Stone National Park offers stunning hiking opportunities. While lesser-known than the Blue Mountains and Royal National Park, the natural beauty here is hard to beat.
Offering one of Australia’s best views when it comes to sunrise and sunset, you’ll be treated to an incredible hike among sandstone cliffs, canyons, and the famous pagoda rock formations. Be sure to come well-prepared with water and supplies. As this area is less-developed, some parts may require a 4WD or specialised hiking gear.
Final tips for the road trip of a lifetime
Sydney might be home to iconic monuments like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, but you need only drive north or south of the city to find a new experience waiting for you. With world heritage-listed national parks, beautiful beaches, and stunning coastlines all on your doorstep, there are plenty of options whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended itinerary.
All that’s left for you is to decide where to go and secure the perfect ride for your trip. Thanks to Turo, the latter couldn’t be easier. You’ll find unique cars to suit every budget and travel requirement. The best part? You can arrange convenient delivery from your local Turo host.
So, what are you waiting for? Find your drive on Turo in Sydney. Keen to start your car-sharing business? With Turo, you can sign up online in minutes and start earning income from your spare ride. Find out more and list your car on Turo.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
