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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Beaches in New South Wales

There are so many beautiful beaches in NSW all the way along the coast. From secluded spots to tourist hotspots, there are beaches in New South Wales to suit everyone. This guide aims to make road trip travel itinerary planning a little easier as we detail the top beach spots in NSW and some fantastic holiday parks to stay at.

Plus, with Apollo Camper branches conveniently located around Australia, holidaying in a campervan hire will be your new preferred way to see the sights thanks to its flexibility, freedom and ease!

 

What’s New South Wales known for?

New South Wales is known for many things, but its stunning coastline is definitely one of the most celebrated. From the iconic Bondi Beach, which attracts millions of visitors every year, to the pristine beaches of Byron Bay, which are some of the most beautiful and unspoiled in the world, NSW boasts some of the best beach destinations in Australia. 

But it’s not just about the best beaches in New South Wales. There is a rich cultural heritage, with world-class museums, galleries, and historical sites, as well as the vibrant city of Sydney, which offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture vulture, or simply someone who loves to relax and soak up the sun, New South Wales has something for everyone making it a great destination for an Australian road trip in a campervan or motorhome.

 

What’s the best way to explore the beaches of New South Wales?

If you're looking to explore the stunning beaches of New South Wales, campervan hire is one of the best ways to do it. With a campervan, have the freedom to travel at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you like to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this beautiful state. 

Campervan hire also offers a range of other benefits, such as the ability to cook your own meals, stay in comfortable accommodation wherever you go, and avoid the hassle and expense of renting a car and booking hotels. With an Apollo Camper, have everything you need in one place to explore the beaches NSW in comfort and style. Apollo Campers have a range of campervans to choose from to suit your needs and have branches conveniently located around Australia, including a Sydney rental branch, making picking up and dropping off your camper a breeze.

Image: Destination NSW

 

The best beaches in NSW

1. Bondi Beach, Sydney

One of the most famous and iconic beaches in New South Wales is Bondi Beach in Sydney. If you're travelling by campervan, easily park in the designated area and enjoy all that the area has to offer. Bondi Beach is a bustling and vibrant destination, with golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. From swimming and surfing to shopping and dining, Bondi Beach has something for everyone, making it a great family-friendly place to visit in Sydney.

Where to stay near Bondi Beach

When it comes to places to stay in a campervan near Bondi Beach, the BIG4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, is a great choice. It’s located on the Northern Beaches of Sydney so makes it a great base for all your Sydney road trip adventures. Find spacious campsites, great amenities and an ideal location beside Narrabeen Lake and within walking distance of Narrabeen Beach (a bonus one on this list!), cafes and eateries.

 

2. Byron Bay Main Beach

Another must-visit beach in New South Wales is Main Beach in Byron Bay. Main Beach is a beautiful destination, with clear blue waters, white sand, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. It's a popular spot for swimming, surfing, walking and enjoying the sunshine which makes it a great choice for couples and families looking for things to do. From the beach wander up to the streets where you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to enjoy, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Plus, if you time your trip right, enjoy the Byron Bay Markets that are held on the first Sunday of every month.

Where to stay near Byron Bay Main Beach (H4) 

There are a few options to stay at in Byron Bay, but one we love to book into is the First Sun Holiday Park, located just a short walk away from Main Beach. With a great proximity to the beach and shops, as well as modern amenities and great campsites, this holiday park will be a great base for your Byron Bay travels.

 

3. Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay

Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is next up and for good reason. Hyams Beach is known for its calm waters and white sand, which have earned it a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the beach with the whitest sand in the world! Whether you enjoy a long walk on the beach or splash in the calm clear waters, we’re sure you’ll love this addition to a road trip travel itinerary. The area is also surrounded by beautiful natural bushland, making it a great place for enjoying a hike through nature.

Where to stay near Hyams Beach

If you're looking for a place to stay near Hyams Beach, consider Jervis Bay Holiday Park. This family-friendly and pet friendly holiday park is situated right on the waterway and has a range of facilities such as a tennis court, swimming pool and playground.

 

4. Manly Beach, Sydney

Manly Beach is another stunning destination that should be on your list when exploring the best beaches in NSW. This beach, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, and plenty of family-friendly activities for the whole family to enjoy. Those craving a picnic by the sea are in luck with plenty of spots to set up at, and plenty of great local eateries and cafes that are just a short walk away on the Manly Corse. 

Where to stay near Manly Beach

A short drive away is the BIG4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, which is also in great proximity to Manly Beach. This holiday park is a fantastic choice when looking for places to stay in your campervan or motorhome in Sydney.

 

5. Palm Beach, Sydney

Another gem on the Northern Beaches is Palm Beach, which we think is one of the most picturesque and charming beaches in New South Wales. Palm Beach is located on a narrow peninsula, surrounded by sparkling blue waters and rolling dunes and hills. People flock here to swim, sunbathe, surf or walk along the shoreline to take in the views. Nearby there is also a lighthouse walk that offers spectacular panoramic views of the area, a must-do when visiting Palm Beach. There are some wonderful eateries and cafes in the area serving up delicious fresh seafood and other bites, or set up a picnic on the grassy areas overlooking the ocean to enjoy the views.

Where to stay near Palm Beach

Again, the BIG4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is a great place to stay when travelling in a campervan in Sydney and the Northern Beaches. With all you need to keep the family comfortable and entertained, we’re sure you’ll want to extend your stay here so you can continue to enjoy all that Sydney has to offer.

Image: Destination NSW

 

6. Seven Mile Beach, Shoalhaven

The final spot on our list of the best beaches in NSW is Seven Mile Beach in Shoalhaven. Seven Mile Beach is a stunning stretch of sand that runs for, as the name suggests, seven miles. Enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing, or one of the many walking trails and picnic areas nearby, making it a great family-friendly road trip destination. 

Where to stay near Seven Mile Beach

If you're looking for a place to stay near Seven Mile Beach, check out Seven Mile Beach Caravan Park. This holiday park is the perfect base for your adventures in the area and has all you need for a great stay including spacious campsites and modern amenities.

 

Ready for your next adventure?

With so many incredible beaches to be explored and activities to be enjoyed, a road trip in NSW will be one for the memory books. You can find more inspiration and travel ideas to make your travel planning all the easier. Now all you need to do is book a campervan hire with Apollo, and start exploring Australia today.

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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