Sometimes a short beach escape, a quick mountain retreat, or an immersive nature experience is all you need to satisfy your wanderlust and come back to the city feeling rejuvenated. Thankfully, if you live in NSW, it doesn’t take a lot to escape the city grind — even if you don’t drive. You could hop on a train, bus, or ferry and, in no time, be transported to a completely new place, far removed from city life. With two long weekends on the horizon, it’s the perfect opportunity to head out and make the most of your free time. From coastal towns and stunning national parks to unique wildlife encounters, here are some of our favourite Easter long weekend getaways from Sydney — all accessible by public transport.
1. Kiama
Kiama is a local favourite and a repeat destination for Sydneysiders. It’s packed with incredible scenery, beautiful beaches, and natural wonders, including the world’s largest blowhole just steps from the station. It’s also an easy weekend getaway — just catch a direct train from Central and you’ll be there in just under two hours. Shop at the local markets by the beach or go on one of NSW’s best coastal walks, and you’ll be rewarded with the ultimate change of scenery here. Plan your Easter getaway with our guide to Kiama.
2. Blackheath
Katoomba, Leura, and Blackheath are equally sought-after small towns in the Blue Mountains all year round, but of all the villages, Blackheath packs a strong punch in the autumn months. If you’re eager for a leaf-peeping adventure, just catch a direct train from Central and Blackheath and stroll the tree-lined streets with a coffee in hand. You can fill an entire weekend exploring the main streets, lined with cute cafes and shops with easy access to rainforest walks and national parks. Check out the best things to see, eat, and do in Blackheath.
3. Bouddi National Park
For the perfect escape in nature — think, secluded beaches, rainforest views, coastal walks, oceanside camping and stargazing — head straight to Bouddi National Park. Swim in the clear waters of Putty Beach, walk along the iconic Bouddi Coastal Walk, pitch a tent at Little Beach campground, or just soak in all the incredible beauty. You can catch a train from Central and get off at either Woy Woy or Gosford. Plan your trip at Transport for NSW and find the best things to do at the national park here.
4. Goulburn
Goulburn may be an unlikely choice for a long weekend getaway, but it’s a local gem worth discovering. As Australia’s first inland city, the town offers plenty of historical charm and old-world architecture to explore. Plus, it’s home to one of NSW’s most iconic ‘big things’ — the Big Merino. Goulburn also offers charming overnight farmstays and cottages if you want to stay a while and enjoy a quiet weekend here, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can catch a direct train from Central to Goulburn. Plan your trip here.
5. Symbio Wildlife Park
Got some little ones you need to keep entertained over the Easter long weekend? The Symbio Wildlife Park is a fun and wholesome day out for the whole family. This under-the-radar spot offers plenty of wildlife encounters spread across 20 acres of garden space. See adorable koalas, little penguins, red pandas, meerkats, kangaroos, wombats, and much more up close. The park also has an adventure playground and cafe on-site, making it a fun and easy day trip from town. You can catch a direct train from Central to Helensburgh Station and then a bus from the station to the wildlife park. See what’s on over the long weekend here.
6. Robertson
Bowral and Berrima might be the go-to spots for travellers heading to the Southern Highlands, but Robertson is the place to be if you want to enjoy the same country charm with far fewer crowds. The town is perfect for family getaways with blossoming green scenery, nearby waterfalls, and the Big Potato — which has currently undergone a quirky makeover. Robertson also punches above its weight when it comes to cosy cafés, bakeries, and top-notch pie shops. Getting here is easy — just catch a train from Central to Moss Vale Station, then hop on a bus straight to Robertson.
7. Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park offers delightful outdoor recreation, within close proximity to the city. In the cooler months, you can enjoy rainforest trails, clifftop walks, tranquil botanic gardens, waterfalls, and ancient canyons. It’s the most popular national park in NSW — if visitor numbers are any indication — so solitude isn’t always guaranteed. That said, with over 267,000 hectares of wilderness to roam, there’s more than enough space for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. Read more about the sprawling space and some of its best highlights here and plan your best route from Sydney at Transport for NSW.
8. Stanwell Tops
For family-friendly activities, adventure sports, and bushwalks, Stanwell Tops is a standout destination that often flies under the radar. This relaxed coastal town lies just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney, and you can also reach it by taking a direct train from Central to Stanwell Park, followed by a short bus ride to Stanwell Tops. The area is famous for hang gliding and paragliding, and it also offers some of the best vantage points to take in sweeping views of the ocean, the escarpment, and the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge.