Did you play it smart and turn your annual leave into a 10-day break over Easter and ANZAC Day? If not, no stress — the next long weekend is on the horizon, and we’ve rounded up six stellar road trips from Sydney to help you make the most of it. Autumn’s in full swing: the leaves are turning, the summer crowds have thinned, and the crisp air is perfect for outdoor exploration. It’s prime time to hit the road this Anzac Day long weekend — here’s where to go.
1. Sydney to Kiama
This coastal drive is short on road time but big on scenery. Hardly surprising, then, that it is on top of our list. Cruising down the Grand Pacific Drive, you’ll be treated to the beautiful wilderness of the Royal National Park, electric blue ocean views, the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, and small beach towns. Once in Kiama, dine at the many coastal cafes, watch the largest blowhole in the world up close, enjoy the top-notch beaches and natural wonders, browse the local boutiques, and stretch your legs on the incredible Kiama Coast Walk.
Driving time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Distance: Approximately 120km
2. Sydney to Jervis Bay
Want to stay on the road a bit longer? Keep cruising down the coast to Jervis Bay. The beaches here are next level, think powdery white sands, the most crystal clear waters, almost-tropical scenery — just a stone’s throw from Sydney. Hyams Beach gets all the hype, and for good reason, but if you’re looking to dodge the crowds, there are plenty of quieter beaches in the area with a far more laid-back vibe. Go for a swim, spot dolphins and whales from the shore, or take a bushwalk through the beautiful Booderee National Park.
Driving time: Around 3 hours
Distance: Approximately 200km
3. Sydney to Eden
Prefer a proper road trip this long weekend? The drive from Sydney to Eden is a serious haul, but it’s well worth it. Covering some of Australia’s most spectacular coastline, the route winds through glittering ocean views, national parks, incredible natural scenery, and charming small towns like Bermagui and Merimbula. Highlights to add to your itinerary include: the Eden Killer Whale Museum, Ben Boyd National Park, Tathra Wharf, and the trendy restaurants and cafes at Narooma.
Driving time: Around 6 hours, 30 minutes
Distance: Approximately 475km
4. Sydney to Port Stephens
Sydney to Port Stephens is one of the best long weekend road trips when you’re short on time. It’s an excellent Byron Bay alternative, but much closer to home. Here you’ll find plenty of coastal charm with 26 beaches surrounding the region — plus towering sand dunes, ancient rainforest views, rugged walking trails, snorkelling and local wildlife encounters — right on Sydney’s doorstep. Go sandboarding at Stockton or dolphin watching in the bay. The drive is short, so you can squeeze in a lazy coastal recharge as a day trip or stretch it out into a longer weekend away.
Driving time: Around 2 hours, 30 minutes
Distance: Approximately 190km
5. Sydney to Hat Head
For an equally scenic coastal adventure that truly gets you off the grid and far away from the long weekend crowds, consider a road trip to Hat Head. The semi-isolated coastal village is home to fewer than 400 people, boasting 12km of pristine beachfront and a stunning national park. It’s all about reconnecting with nature here: swim and snorkel in the brilliant blue waters of Korogoro Creek, pitch a tent by the beach at Hat Head National Park, or discover the local walking trails. It’s also a short 20-minute drive to South West Rocks, one of NSW’s best hidden gems. Ready to go? Plan your trip with our guide to Hat Head.
Driving time: Around 5 hours
Distance: Approximately 460kms
6. Sydney to Dorrigo National Park
Swap the coast for crisp rainforest air. If you love chasing waterfalls and feeling worlds away from the city, Dorrigo National Park should be high on your list. Getting there — via the gorgeous Waterfall Way drive — is half the magic. Once you’re there, it’s a waterfall playground, you can camp just steps from one, walk behind another, swim beneath a postcard-perfect cascade, or take a rewarding hike to reach the park’s largest and most dramatic fall. All while being surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest.
Driving time: Around 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 550kms
Find more long weekend road trips around Sydney and NSW here.