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Our Favourite Weekend Road Trip Destinations from Sydney

Our Favourite Weekend Road Trip Destinations from Sydney!

Enjoying the perks of campervan life on a great road trip
Above:Enjoy the relaxing and simple life that a campervan road trip can offer!

Discovering Hidden Gems: Our Favourite Weekend Road Trip Destinations from Sydney

Do you ever dream about getting out of Sydney for the weekend? We sure do! If you’re like us, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of a weekend road trip, where you can trade in your normal life for the open road, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. In this blog post, we’re excited to share our list of beloved weekend road trip destinations, all within a few hours’ drive from the heart of Sydney.

We’ll take you to road trip destinations like Jervis Bay, the Blue Mountains, Nelson Bay, Myall Lakes National Park, Kangaroo Valley, and Bonnie Vale. These spots have something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to stunning nature and charming little towns.

Join us as we take you on a virtual journey through these enchanting spots, sharing insider tips, must-see attractions, and personal experiences that will inspire your next weekend escape. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, these road trip destinations offer something for everyone. So, rev up your engines, pack your bags, and get ready for a weekend getaway like no other. Let’s hit the road and explore the unforgettable weekend road trip destinations waiting just beyond the Sydney city limits.

Note: All road trip distances have been calculated from the Sutherland Shire as that is the pick up location of our campervans

Yellow campervan located at the road trip destination at a beautiful beach in Kiama.

Road Trip 1 – Jervis Bay

Distance: 2 hours 15 minutes (from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Greenpatch Campsite, Holiday Haven White Sands (back up option)
Why Choose this Destination: Beautiful beaches, great ocean swims, whales and dolphins, relaxing sunsets and sunrises

A road trip to Jervis Bay is a journey into coastal paradise. Departing from Sydney, you’ll cruise southward, immersing yourself in a picturesque drive. Stop in at the beachside town of Gerringong for a coffee and stroll through the shops on the main street. As you approach, the anticipation builds for Jervis Bay’s pristine white-sand beaches, known for some of the world’s clearest waters. Head to Hyams Beach, famous for its fine, powdery sands. Make your way further along the coast to the entrance of Booderee National Park to find Greenpatch Campsite.

Some other ideas of what to do include, visit my favourite beach ‘Murray’s Beach’ in the National Park for some snorkelling (a lot of people only go to Hyams and don’t venture any further!), stop in at the charming seaside town of Huskisson, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, or embark on a dolphin-watching tour. A Jervis Bay road trip is a delightful escape to see beautiful beaches and coastal scenes.

See which one of our vans is perfect for your campervan road trip to Jervis Bay HERE!

Picture of Jervis Bay on the South Coast of NSW. A great road trip destination

Road Trip 2 – Blue Mountains

Distance: roughly 2 hours (from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Katoomba Falls Tourist Park (good amenities option), Murphy’s Glen Campground (low key, in nature, basic amenities option) or similarly Dunphy’s Campground (low key, longer drive)
Why Choose this Destination: Great shoulder season destination (autumn, spring, or even winter). Best location for long nature walks, lookouts and great food.

Embarking on a road trip to the Blue Mountains in NSW is an exciting journey into nature’s wonders. On the drive there take a break in the charming village of Leura, known for its cosy cafes and unique shops, giving you a taste of the local mountain culture. As you approach the Blue Mountains you will begin to see iconic sights like the Three Sisters rock formation and the breathtaking views from Echo Point. Explore Wentworth Falls for a peaceful nature walk, uncovering hidden gems like waterfalls and lush forests. Other things to do include visiting the Blue Mountains Sauna or stop in at the Megalong Valley Tea Room for some tea and scones. This road trip promises an enchanting escape into the heart of Australia’s natural beauty.

 

Road Trip 3 – Nelson Bay

Distance: roughly 3.5 hours (from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Fingal Bay Holiday Park or Halifax Holiday Park or Shoal Bay Holiday Park
Why Choose this Destination: Pretty beaches with some nice lookout points, exploring cafes and shops Nelson Bay Town, also a dog friendly destination

A road trip to Nelson Bay, NSW, is like venturing into a coastal wonderland. On the drive North, take a pit stop in the scenic town of Tea Gardens, known for its charming cafes and serene waterfront, providing a delightful prelude to your coastal adventure. As you approach Nelson Bay, the allure of its golden sandy beaches and the promise of beautiful views gets closer. Most of the holiday parks are dog friendly, especially outside of school holiday periods (always double check when booking). There is also an enclosed dog park near the beachfront of Fingal Bay Holiday Park.

Some other things to do is take part in water adventures like kayaking or paddle boarding, or hop on a boat for a memorable dolphin-watching tour. Explore the iconic Gan Gan Lookout for breathtaking panoramas, capturing the beauty of the bay and its surroundingsVisit the vibrant Nelson Bay Marina, home to waterfront restaurants offering delectable seafood. Discover the underwater world with snorkelling or scuba diving expeditions, and unwind on the pristine beaches. Nelson Bay’s charm extends to its lively markets and boutique shops, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls. Hire some bikes and cycle to 5km Bartlett Cycleway which offers some great views or you could also visit the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to visit some furry friends!

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Nelson Bay’s coastal allure offers a perfect blend for an unforgettable road trip experience.


See which one of our vans is available for your campervan road trip to the Blue Mountains HERE!

 

Views of the coastline of Nelson Bay a stunning road trip destination

Road Trip 4 – Myall Lakes National Park (Seal Rocks)

Distance: roughly 4 hours (from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Reflections Holiday Park: Seal Rocks, or Yagon Campground (immersed in nature but only toilets available)
Why Choose this Destination: It is where the national park meets the beach! Plenty of places to relax along the lake and heaps of wildlife

Taking a road trip to Myall Lakes National Park and the pristine enclave of Seal Rocks unveils a captivating journey into nature’s embrace. The drive north brings you to the serene Myall Lakes National Park, where the landscape transforms into a haven of lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. A must-visit within the park is Seal Rocks, a coastal gem known for its rugged beauty. Explore the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views and immerse yourself in the secluded beaches that surround Seal Rocks. Must visit beaches are Seal Rocks and Yagon Beach. Fishing and surfing are quite popular in these destinations. There is also a nice short walking track called Neranie Headland Walking Track which is only a 30 minute loop and starts at Hearts Point Picnic Area.

Whether you are staying at Seal Rocks or Yagon campground you will want to bring everything you need for your trip as there really aren’t many shops or cafes at all. If you want to venture even further North you can check out Bluey’s Beach and Booti Booti National Park. Whether you’re seeking tranquil lakeside moments or the wild beauty of the coastline, a road trip to Myall Lakes National Park and Seal Rocks promises an enchanting escape into the heart of nature.

Sugarloaf Lighthouse which is a great road trip destination located in Myall Lakes National Park

Road Trip 5 – Kangaroo Valley

Distance: 1 hour 45 minutes(from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Bendeela Recreational Area
Why Choose this Destination: A peaceful retreat into nature, cute small country towns and wombats! 

 

A campervan trip to Kangaroo Valley promises an enchanting escape into one of Australia’s most picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by lush rainforests, rolling hills, and the meandering Kangaroo River, this hidden gem offers a perfect setting for campervan enthusiasts seeking tranquillity. On the drive there stop in at the lovely small town of Berry and look in its boutique shops and cafes and even grab some donuts from the famous Berry Donut Van. Once arriving in Kangaroo Valley you’ll get to Bendeela Recreational Area which offers a large grassed area where you can pull up your campervan within seconds.

The best part about this campground is the number of wombats you will see if you go for a little walk around dusk. You can also explore the historic Hampden Bridge, hire a kayak in town to paddle down the Kangaroo River, or grab a pub feed from The Friendly Inn. Don’t miss the beauty of Fitzroy Falls and the short 3.5km West Rim walk or visit the Cambewarra Lookout. Kangaroo Valley’s serene charm, outdoor activities, and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for a campervan trip, where the journey becomes as rewarding as the destination.

Find out how our hiring process works HERE!

Wombat munching on grass

Road Trip 6 – Bonnie Vale, Royal National Park

Distance: 30 minutes (from Sutherland Shire)
Recommended Campsite: Bonnie Vale Campground
Why Choose this Destination: Exploring the Royal National Park coastal track. Laid back campground. Great swimming spots.

 

Bonnie Vale campground is a great spot to visit for a weekend away which even though it is only 30 minutes from Sutherland it will make you feel like you’re a world away! Its proximity to Sydney will allow you ample time to be able to explore the many nooks that Australia’s oldest National Park has to offer. Start by driving through Audley and stopping in at The Dance Hall Cafe for a coffee and a short stroll down the Hacking River.

Once arriving at the campground, settle into the serenity and explore the beach. You can even hire kayaks and stand up paddle boards from Bundeena kayaks located very close by to the campground. It is about a 20 minute walk to the nearby few cafes and IGA in Bundeena as well as the RSL club where you can grab lunch or dinner. A quick drive through Bundeena will lead you to the quiet beach of Jibbon. From here there is a short loop track of the Jibbon headland which you will find after walking down the length of the beach. On this walk you will pass a very small nudist beach, so be ready for that, and you will also get to see some Aboriginal rock art works as well.

If you are up for a longer walk my favourite walk is along the coastal track to little Marley Beach. If you want to make this walk a little bit shorter, drive to the end of Beachcomber Avenue and begin your adventure from there. You will want to start this walk in the morning as it is roughly a 10km return to get all the way down to Little Marley Beach for a swim in the crystal clear water. Leave about 4-5 hours and take food and plenty of water with you. Bonnievale is a great location to get in touch with nature as well as the ocean!

Choosing any of these 6 locations will lead to an epic weekend campervan adventure! Each one has it’s own uniqueness of natural beauty, so why not try and tick them all off with one of our campervans!

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