
With its beautiful beaches, Instagrammable cafes, picturesque rock pools, and many coastal walks, you might never feel the need to leave Sydney. But if you step away from the NSW capital, even just for a day, you’ll find there is plenty more to see and do. From charming country towns to coastal hangouts, these excellent destinations are just a stone’s throw from the city and offer endless fun in the sun. Summer days are perfect for planning these rejuvenating day trips from Sydney with longer days and pleasant temps to take advantage of. Plus, getting there and back by the end of the day using public transport is easy too. Here are some of our top recommendations.
1. Palm Beach

A repeat destination for Sydneysiders, Palm Beach offers an excellent variety of adventures. Beaches, sun-soaked walks, stunning lookouts, and plenty of natural beauty are on offer here. Surrounded by Pittwater, the Pacific Ocean, and Broken Bay, this narrow peninsula is ideal for water activities including surfing, swimming, sailing, and more. Walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, grab a bite at the local waterside cafes, or just relax by the water — all just a short drive from Sydney.
Travel time: One hour drive
2. Berrima

If you’re someone who enjoys walking around town and popping in and out of shops and cafes, you won’t be disappointed while visiting Berrima. This historic village in the Southern Highlands is best known for its heritage buildings that date back to the 1800s and are best explored on foot. The well-preserved village is also home to a number of excellent bakeries including local favourites like Gumnut Patisserie and Baked in Berrima. Plus, it’s also just a 10-minute drive to the equally lovely albeit more crowded town of Bowral so you can easily explore both in a day. Start planning here.
Travel time: 1.5-hour drive
3. Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie is well-known for being the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere which means water lovers will be spoilt for choice here. Whether you enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, or sunbathing, this tranquil spot is the place to go. While there, don’t forget to visit the nearby Caves Beach for all your Instagram needs, enjoy a swim in the lake, enjoy snorkelling in the area or enjoy a lakeside dining experience on this stellar summer day trip.
Travel time: 2-hour drive
4. Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are arguably among the most visually impressive landscapes in NSW and their proximity to Sydney is the cherry on top of the cake. Just hop on a train from Central and you can get to some of the prettiest towns in the region and have access to unlimited outdoor adventures. Destinations to explore on a day trip are Blackheath, Katoomba, and Leura, all oozing with charm and perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers can make a beeline to the Blue Mountains National Park or pack a picnic at the highest botanic garden in Australia, go on a stunning hike through rainforest and ancient canyons, embark on a bookshop walking trail, and finally head to Scenic World for a sundowner and dramatic mountain views.
Travel time: Approximately 1.5-hours depending on the destination
5. Stanwell Park

If you prefer the beach to mountain towns, consider the somewhat under-the-radar beach town, Stanwell Park. Sitting on the southern edge of the Royal National Park along the Grand Pacific Drive, this picturesque village packs a punch with a diverse array of offerings including the best paragliding and hang gliding in Australia. Head to Stanwell Park or Bald Hill Lookout for stunning views of the village or make a beeline for Symbio National Park for a uniquely Australian wildlife experience.
Travel time: One hour drive
6. Huskisson

Beach lovers take note: Australia’s best tiny tourism town is just a leisurely drive from Sydney. Huskisson in Jervis Bay greets visitors with a stunning shoreline and beautiful, clear waters. Visit the nearby Booderee National Park for coastal walks and beachside camping, and grab a drink and a bite at Jervis Bay Brewing Co., or enjoy the views from the stunning white sand beaches. It’s the perfect destination for those looking for a beach-heavy summer day trip.
Travel time: 2.5-hour drive
7. Long Jetty

What Newtown is to Sydney, Long Jetty is to the Central Coast. The best things to do in this vibrant region include a picture-perfect stroll or cycling along Tuggerah Lake, a walk along NSW’s longest — and arguably most Instagrammable — jetty, and enjoying the delicious local food on offer at locally loved spots like The Green Tangerine and Komuniti cafe. Long Jetty is made for shopaholics with a variety of vintage stores, kitschy shops, and boutiques scattered throughout the town.
Travel time: 1.5-hour drive
8. Windsor

Windsor is tailor-made for history lovers. The third-oldest place of British settlement on the Australian mainland, this colonial town offers a step back in time with old buildings, heritage walks, and charming pubs. It’s located along the Hawkesbury River and at the foot of the Blue Mountains so nature lovers will have plenty to do here including waterskiing and wakeboarding.
Travel time: Less than an hour’s drive