All about New South Wales
When to visit
The best time to visit New South Wales for most activities is in Aussie summer, from November to February, when warm weather makes surfing, hiking, camping, cycling, wine tasting, and other outdoor exploring the most comfortable. If you’re into winter sports, then June through August is your best bet for skiing in the Snowy Mountains. There are fewer tourists in the winter, too.
Getting around
New South Wales has a well-connected train system that can get you to most places in the state. To explore the state’s scenic roads, like in Kangaroo Valley or along the coast, renting a car or van is your best option. In Sydney and other big cities, you can rent Lime bikes to weave through traffic for a local feel. Buses work well in most cities, like Sydney, which also has a popular, elaborate intercity metro network.
Traveler tips
Make it a point to visit some of the ocean rock pools in New South Wales. These beauties are crafted into the sea, making safer, calmer enclosures for toddlers, families, and hard-core swimming trainees. When the ocean becomes dramatic, the walls of the rockpools can’t keep out the swell, and you’ll see brave local kids daring the waves to knock them over, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New South Wales best known for?
New South Wales is known for beaches, mountains, the bush country, wine tasting, and, of course, Sydney. You can explore miles of coastline with every kind of beach, go hiking and biking in the Blue Mountains, wine tasting in Hunter Valley, and sipping bubbles with Harbour Bridge views in Sydney.
How many days should I spend in New South Wales?
Give yourself a week in New South Wales to check out Sydney and visit the iconic sites. Hike in the Blue Mountains, taste wine in Hunter Valley, and get to one of the laid-back beach towns, like Jervis Bay, to unwind on the white sand.
Is New South Wales worth visiting?
Yes, for its range of natural beauty and the cultural icons, New South Wales is definitely worth visiting. There is something for everyone and every age, whether you like the beach, hiking, camping, or urban exploring. There are loads of things to do in New South Wales.
What are the top places to visit in New South Wales?
Top places to visit in New South Wales include Sydney for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge; Blue Mountains for hiking, viewpoints, and camping; Hunter Valley for wine; Kangaroo Valley for a scenic road trip; and the beach towns up and down the coast for relaxing.
What is the best time to visit New South Wales?
New South Wales is warmest in summer, but do expect some rain, which is what keeps it vibrantly lush and green. In summer (November–February) the backpackers come to the beaches where the surf is perfect and warm. Yet, winter is perfect for skiing in the Snowy Mountains.
What are the best beaches in New South Wales?
There are many gorgeous beaches in New South Wales. In Sydney, Bondi is popular with backpackers and surfers. Manly is a Sydney hot spot for snorkeling and swimming. To the north, visit Treachery Beach in Seal Rocks, and in the south, try Jervis Bay for white sands and whale watching.