You might love Sydney for all its sights and attractions but hours away from the city are many beautiful spots and places just waiting for a day trip from you and your family. There are beaches, bays, mountains, adventure spots, vineyards, and so much more.
1. Port Stephens Bay
Various waterfront towns line Port Stephens Bay's 70-mile-long shoreline, and you can have fun exploring through Anna Bay, Shoal Bay, and other waterfront towns. Don’t forget to stop at Nelson Bay which is the hub of the region, a quaint town with beachfront promenade, great dining experiences, and boutique shops. If you’re on a budget, just take the ferry for an inexpensive way to explore the scenic beauty of the place.
- Cost: Approx. $170
- How to Get There: Drive or take a bus
- Time Taken: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- What to Do: Whale watching, dolphin watching, snorkeling, sand boarding, and wildlife-watching
2. Blue Mountains
If you want to explore Australia’s wild scenic beauty, Blue Mountains is the place to be. The name comes from the blue mist that swathes the gorges and mountains of the region. It is best to go to Katoomba and explore the Blue Mountains from there. The fall season is the best time to take this day trip.
- Cost: $125 - $180
- How to Get There: Drive to M4 from Parramatta road or take a train to Katoomba or Blackheath from Central Railway Station in Sydney.
- Time Taken: 1.5 hours
- What to Do: River cruise, wildlife-watching, boat cruise, Scenic World, Megalong Valley, Three Sisters Waterfall, bushwalking, and Waradah Aboriginal Center
3. Manly Beach
You will fill your camera with gorgeous shots of the Sydney Opera House as you ferry past it and reach Manly Wharf. This place is bustling with eateries and shops. Take a short walk to the golden Manly beach that has the best waves, ideal for surfing. The beach also has lines of restaurants, shops, and bars to relax and have fun. You can then take a trip to the Oceanworld and dive with the sharks.
- Cost: Less than $50
- How to Get There: Take Manly Ferry from Sydney Harbour
- Time Taken: 30 minutes
- What to Do: Manly Wharf, surfing, Oceanworld, and local food
4. Hunter Valley Vineyards
This wine producing area has been there since the 1800s and makes for a fun day trip. Apart from the organized tours of the local tourism center (helicopter and horse drawn carriages), you should spend the entire day tasting wines. Try the favorites: Cabernet Sauvignon, Muscat, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. The best vineyards include McGuinan Wines, First Creek Wines, and Tyrell’s Wines.
- Cost: Approx. $160
- How to Get There: Drive north from Sydney
- Time Taken: 2 hours
- What to Do: Wine tasting, helicopter tour, and ride in a horse-drawn carriage
Don’t forget to carry your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a large hat as you enjoy your day trip.
