Australia embodies the surf culture, with its long periods of sunny days and warm weather; it provides the perfect backdrop for a beach lifestyle. This article will explore four of the best beach towns in New South Wales perfect for your next beachside adventure!
Byron Bay
Famous for the tranquil seas to the east, Byron Bay hosts many of New South Wales best dive sites including the Julian Rock Marine Reserve. You can spend the day at the many luxury resorts that serve the towns’ visitors, from the more affordable beach houses to luxury $700 a night beach houses such as The Water Mark.
To get to Byron Bay, you can either take a train from Sydney or it’s only an hour’s drive away from Gold Coast airport.
Pros – Good if you’re into snorkeling and scuba diving, flexibility in price
Cons – Located an eight-hour drive from Sydney.
Source: Andy Hay via Flickr
Port Macquarie
Famous for koalas and its numerous beaches, Port Macquarie enjoys a warm sea breeze year-round. Founded as a penal settlement, iconic landmarks such as St Thomas Anglican church and the Tackling Point Lighthouse, showcase the town’s incredible history.
If you’re into spending some time with the family by the coast, we found the best beach house deals through Airbnb. Daily flights from Sydney and Brisbane serve the Port Macquarie airport.
Pros – Great sea breeze, annual events such as Hello Koalas Festival
Cons – A bit too far for a day road trip – 5 hours’ drive from Sydney
Source: Creative Commons via Flickr
Port Stephens
Located just north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is a hidden gem. Home to Nelson Bay, where there is a wide variety of cafes and restaurants, it serves as the perfect backdrop for a truly Australian Al Fresco dining experience.
Fancy some fresh produce? The year-round markets provide visitors with fresh fruits, vegetables and wine from the famous hunter valley region.
Port Stephens is road trip worthy, being only 2.5 hours drive from Sydney, alternatively, the Newcastle Airport hosts flights from most major cities around Australia.
Pros – If you want to have weddings or business events, fine dining or a high-class road trip
Cons – Not suitable if you want to have a highly energetic holiday with adventure
Wollongong
With a permanent population of approximately 300,000 people, Wollongong is classified as a small city rather than a town. It still makes it to our list as it does provide its own unique experience of the convenience of city life, while visitors can still get away from the hustle and bustle of big city living.
If you’d like to get away for the weekend while still enjoying the access to services of the bigger cities, Wollongong is only 2 hours away from Sydney.
Pros – Broad culture, trendy nightlife, numerous shops and amenities for visitors
Cons – Not the best surf
Source: illawarrashowcase via Flickr
Whether you want to head out for sports, be on the lookout for Australia’s iconic koalas, experience the high life with fine outdoor dining, or spend the weekend immersing yourself in culture, there is a beach town to suit every occasion. Traveling options ranges from flights, to train and even a road trip holiday. Come visit a beach town here in New South Wales today!
