The long weekend is fast approaching and the urge to get away from the city is growing stronger. If you’ve been swept up in the daily grind and haven’t had the chance to plan your time off, we’ve got you covered. Here are some excellent last-minute getaways, all within a short 3-hour drive of Sydney, ideal for relaxing and making the most of your time off. There’s something for history buffs, nature lovers, shopping enthusiasts, and those who just need an escape from it all. Seize the moment and start planning your perfect long weekend getaway.
1. Newcastle
Newcastle is an excellent day trip from Sydney with an eclectic range of offerings. Bring the whole family along and spend a day at the beach, take a dip in the largest ocean pool in the southern hemisphere, discover all the vibrant street art around town or enjoy it’s amazing food offerings. Located just a short and picturesque 2-hour drive from Sydney, Newcastle is a no-brainer if you need a spontaneous escape from the city with something on offer for everyone.
2. Booderee National Park
If you want to get amongst nature but want to avoid the inevitable crowds at the Royal National Park and the Blue Mountains National Park, we suggest driving a bit longer to the spectacular Booderee National Park. Although one of the most beautiful national parks in NSW, it remains under the radar and offers turquoise waters, unspoiled beaches with soft white sand, waterside camping, and the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia. From here you can drive further down to Hyams Beach and Murrays Beach for a fun-filled day of coastal adventures. Read more about Booderee National Park here.
3. Huskisson
Huskisson is the deserved winner of the Best Tiny Town title in 2024 so if you haven’t been, now is a good time to plan a visit. A short 2.5-hour drive via the stunning Grand Pacific Drive, this coastal town may be small in size but it packs a punch. A relaxed coastal brewery, the vibrant Jervis Bay Marine Park, and pristine beaches with powdery white sands are on offer here so sunbathers, swimmers, wildlife enthusiasts, and snorkellers will have plenty to keep them busy. You can also spend the day taking a stroll around town and stop by the vibrant shops, eateries, and cafes.
4. Sofala
Want to go somewhere truly offbeat? Consider visiting Sofala, Australia’s oldest surviving gold rush town and a true step back in history. The time capsule village consists of three streets only and is home to less than 200 people. Several of these buildings remain well-preserved and offer visitors a taste of the past including a quaint country pub and the old Sofala Police Station. You can go on a historical walking tour and learn more about the town or tackle the nearby walking trails. This is an excellent escape just around 3 hours from Sydney. Read all about the fascinating town here.
5. Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is a repeat weekend destination for Sydneysiders with a wealth of offerings for all types of travellers. Visit the small towns of Bowral, Mittagong, or Berrima and shop from charming boutiques, eat at cosy cafes, and enjoy the manicured gardens in full bloom. There are also plenty of natural wonders to explore around the region including thunderous waterfalls and national parks. As Australia’s first booktown, the region is a particularly cosy escape with charming bookshops and cafes around town and an easy 1.5-hour drive from Sydney.
6. Leura
It’s never a bad time to visit Leura but we recommend planning a trip over the long weekend because it coincides with the town’s ever-popular Leura Gardens Festival. A number of beautiful gardens will be participating with a variety of plants and blooms on display. Aside from that, Leura also offers cherry blossom-lined streets, plenty of charming cafes and country cottages. Located just 1.5 hours from Sydney, you can take it all in at your own pace and enjoy a stellar variety of activities around the town. Find more information about the Leura Gardens Festival here.