Destination dupes have emerged among the year’s hottest travel trends, offering savvy travellers an alternative to popular hotspots that often come with high prices, throngs of tourists, and sold-out accommodation. If you’re among those increasingly seeking out hidden gems as an alternative to overrun destinations, NSW has a wealth of under-the-radar towns that are every bit as delightful as the popular spots. Instead of visiting the usual postcard spots around town, consider these stellar alternatives to summer destinations in NSW that offer the same sun-soaked scenery, crystal clear waters and outdoor adventures without the tourist traps.
1. Swap Byron Bay for Yamba
What Byron Bay promises with its stunning beaches, excellent surfing, beautiful rainforests, and seaside dining, Yamba offers too, but minus the crowds. This charming coastal town has pristine beaches, elegant boutiques, meandering coastal walks, and a wonderful laidback vibe ideal for a summer getaway. Located in the Clarence Valley on the NSW North Coast, Yamba is the perfect summer getaway packed with brilliant views, clear waters, and outdoor adventures. While we would never tell you not to go to Byron Bay, consider this seaside gem for a quieter getaway. Plan your summer holiday to Yamba here.
2. Substitute Eden for Port Stephens
The beautiful beaches, magnificent coastal sand dunes, and national parks of Port Stephens lure travellers from far and wide but further ahead lies Eden, a true hidden gem with a sleepy appeal that is worth the long drive out. Unwind on secluded shores, explore beautiful national parks, go on a whale-watching adventure and savour delicious local seafood in this quiet town on the Sapphire Coast. Eden also has a rich maritime history and museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s heritage. Plan your trip with our guide to Eden.
3. Trade Newcastle for Sydney
We may be biased but there’s no place quite like Sydney. With its iconic landmarks, world-famous beaches, exceptional dining and fantastic views in every corner, it’s a city that rightfully gets a lot of attention, especially during summer. Which means you can’t escape the throngs of tourists. If that’s something you would rather not deal with, consider turning your attention to Newcastle. It offers many of the same attractions, including lovely beaches, a vibrant art scene, excellent waterside dining and even the largest ocean baths in the southern hemisphere but with fewer crowds. Even better, it’s just a 2-hour drive from Sydney making it one of the most accessible summer destinations around town.
4. Discover Huskisson over Hyams Beach
Hyams Beach is one of NSW’s most popular summer destinations thanks to its glorious white sands and the bluest of waters. But good luck finding a quiet spot here to unwind and recharge. The popular beach is chock-full of visitors especially in summer looking to get the perfect Instagram shot. Fortunately, just a short drive away is the picture-perfect town of Huskisson, which was voted Australia’s Best Tiny Tourist Town in 2024 so it warrants a visit. On offer is the same white sand, turquoise waters, coastal breweries and wonderful views, making it the perfect alternative to Hyams.
5. Switch Katoomba for Leura
If you’re more of a mountain person than a beach lover, the Blue Mountains offer a wonderful escape all year long. While the main townships of Katoomba and Blackheath are where city dwellers rush to, there are plenty of quieter places with the very best natural attractions on their doorstep. Our favourite is Leura, a charming village known for its beautiful gardens, boutique shops, sidewalk cafes and lovely walkable streets. Leura also offers easy access to walking trails and waterfalls in the area so it has something for everyone. Check out our weekend guide to Leura.