There's plenty of things to see and do during the warmer months that won’t break the budget. From stunning coastal escapes to a country tree change, we take a look at hot spots across New South Wales that won’t cost you a fortune this summer.
Hunter and Central Coast regions
Get back to nature
Recharge your batteries by getting out into the fresh air and sunshine. Blackbutt Nature Reserve is teeming with wildlife ranging from reptiles and roos to koalas and wombats. Along with a variety of self-guided walking trails, the reserve also hosts daily animal feedings and a reptile show. Scoot, skate, cycle or simply stroll the Fernleigh Track which offers 15km of uninterrupted pathway along a former rail corridor connecting Adamstown to Belmont. For a more adventurous experience, Glenrock State Conservation Area is great for mountain bike riding or hiking through the rainforest where you can enjoy waterfalls along the way.
Take a bath
As the temperatures rise, cool off in one of Newcastle’s iconic ocean baths. Take your pick between Newcastle Baths, Merewether Baths, or visit the popular Bogey Hole – the oldest ocean pool on Australia’s east coast which was cut out of the rock platform by convicts back in 1819.
Mid-North Coast region
Sample local produce
Stop in and sample a local market anywhere along the Mid-North Coast, which stretches from Forster up to Port Macquarie. With dozens of options to choose from, you’ll find a wide range of stalls offering fresh produce, free entertainment and artisan items. It’s an opportunity to grab some unique products for yourself or as gifts and you’ll also be supporting the local community. Market dates and frequencies differ between towns, so do a quick search ahead of time to see what’s on in the area.
North Coast and Far North Coast regions
Sea it to believe it
Undoubtedly, one of the main reasons to visit the North Coast is to soak up the beach lifestyle that places like Byron Bay and Ballina are renowned for. White sand, crystal clear water and warm temperatures make it a haven for water sports. Be sure to pack some snorkelling gear to take advantage of the abundance of sea life living beneath the surface or try your hand at surfing if it’s on your bucket list.
View from the top
Stretch your legs and walk up to the Byron Bay Lighthouse for some great photo opportunities. Not only is it the most eastern point of Australia, but it also offers stunning coastal views and you can often spot whales and dolphins frolicking out in the ocean.
Connect with culture
The North Coast provides a range of options to experience the Indigenous customs of the region’s traditional land owners. Be immersed in local artwork at one of the many Aboriginal art galleries or take a guided tour to tickle your taste buds with bush tucker from the area.
North West and Central West regions
Visit a farm
Escape the hustle and bustle of major towns and discover your country roots with a farm visit that will delight both the little and big kids. Roll up your sleeves and spend a couple of hours or a whole day being immersed in unique experiences ranging from fruit picking and feeding animals to learning about crops and farm machinery.
Nothing to wine about
It is the season to celebrate and what better way to do so than by sampling some incredible Australian wines? The growing conditions across New South Wales are some of the most diverse in the country, resulting in award winning wines that are often showcased alongside fresh local produce. With many cellar doors offering complimentary tastings, commemorate your trip by bottling up some of the Central West to take home with you.