Filled with remarkable nature and epic sights, a road trip from Sydney is one of the best ways to explore this vibrant area. Just an hour or two away are some of the most stunning places in the world. Book your rental with VroomVroomVroom and start what will be an unforgettable road trip.
Top attractions: Figure Eight Pools, Little Marley Beach, Wedding Cake Rock.
Did you know that Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world? If that isn’t reason enough to check out this destination, the scenery and hikes are bound to impress. From the Insta famous Figure Eight Pools which is a rock pool in the formation of the number eight, to the jaw-dropping cliff hike starting in Bundeena and ending in Little Marley Beach, there are so many places to explore. When you visit the Royal National Park, Wattamolla Lagoon and Beach is another must see. Think beautiful lagoons, an epic waterfall and dreamy views. Wattamolla is a popular place to bring inflatables and float on the water as well.
Tips: Have an early start to your day to avoid the crowds. Another great option is going through the week instead of the weekend to explore the area and enjoy the surrounds without hordes of people.
Recommended car: A compact SUV is the perfect car for a road trip to Royal National Park. A compact car will save you money but include all the features of an SUV we all know and love including space and comfort.
Travel time: The trip to Royal National Park is just under an hour away from the bustling CBD of Sydney.
Directions: Follow M1 and A1 to Farnell Avenue in Loftus. Follow Farnell Avenue and Audley Road to Lady Carrington Drive in Royal National Park.
Top attractions: Bathers Way, Bogey Hole, Dixon Park Beach, Nobbys Head, Newcastle Museum, Glenrock State Conservation Area.
Bathers Wayis a walk that takes you along the coast. Filled with places to swim, relax, and wine and dine, this place has it all, and many consider it to be the ultimate beach destination in Newcastle. Bogey Hole is a pool carved into the rocks next to the ocean — you need to see it to grasp how magical this place is. Other highlights include Dixon Park Beach, Newcastle Museum and Glenrock State Conservation Area.
Tips: Try to avoid driving during peak times to avoid any delays and congestion on the road to and from Newcastle.
Recommended car: A full-sized sports car is perfect for a Sydney to Newcastle road trip.
Travel time: The Sydney to Newcastle drive time is just over 2 hours.
Directions: Follow M1 and M2 to Epping Road in North Ryde. Take the Epping Road exit from M2. Take A3 and Pacific Highway/A1 to M1 in Wahroonga. Follow M1 to Newcastle Link Road/A15 in Cameron Park. Continue on A15. Drive to King Street in Newcastle
Top attractions: Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Boat House.
Fancy swapping the city for the sea? Palm Beach is an iconic Sydney beach located to the north of the city. Known for its laid back vibes and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a lovely change from the busy city (especially if you’re looking to chill out). Essential activities include walking up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse from where the views over to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park are stunning, especially on a clear and sunny day. Have you really been to Palm Beach if you haven’t been to the Boat House? It’s an awesome restaurant on the water known for its delicious food.
Tips: Travelling to Palm Beach in winter? It is one of the best place to spot whales migrating.
Recommended car: A compact car is perfect for a drive from Sydney to Palm Beach. Since it’s a short road trip, you don’t need the space of a bigger car.
Travel time: The drive to Palm Beach is just over an hour.
Directions: Take M1, A38, Wakehurst Parkway, Pittwater Road and Barrenjoey Road to Surf Road in Palm Beach.
Top attractions: Gerringong Falls, Hampden Bridge.
Located between two mountain ranges, the winding road to Kangaroo Valley is definitely worth the effort. Visit impressive waterfalls and historic sights while you explore Kangaroo Valley. The Jamberoo Mountain Road will take visitors to the beautiful 550-metre high Gerringong Falls.
Tips: Visit Australia's oldest surviving wooden suspension bridge and admire the interesting Victorian design at Hampden Bridge.
Recommended car: Rent a luxury car and treat yourself when you drive to Kangaroo Valley.
Travel time: It will take you 2 hours to get to Kangaroo Valley.
Directions: Head south on the Hume Motorway. Exit the motorway at Aylmerton and bear east toward Kangaroo Valley.
Top attractions: Jenolan Caves, Three Sisters, Orphan Rock, Everglades
The award-winning Jenolan Caves are the worlds oldest caves and are seriously impressive to walk through. For an unforgettable experience, you can take the Scenic Cableway which travels over 500 metres up in the air. You’ll see the famous Three Sisters, Orphan Rock (mountain formations), and end your journey in the ancient rainforest. After that, you can check out the Everglades which are stunning gardens that span over five hectares.
Here are more ideas for your road trip to the Blue Mountains.
Tips: It’s possible to check out the highlights of the Blue Mountains on a day trip. However, if you want to explore the area to its full potential, you can spend a whole weekend here and delve into the magic that is the Blue Mountains.
Recommended car: A mid-sized car will fit the essentials if you’re travelling with family. It will ensure you have a comfortable drive to the Blue Mountains.
Travel time: The Blue Mountains take an hour to get to from Sydney’s CBD.
Directions: Follow A4 to Western Motorway/M4 in Strathfield. Follow M4 to Great Western Highway/A32 in Glenbrook. Continue on Great Western Hwy/A32. Drive to Bruce Road.
Top attractions: Umina Beach, The Entrance.
Between Sydney and Newcastle, there is no shortage of incredible beaches, lakes and charming towns. The area also features many popular hiking trails through the surrounding bushland. At Umina Beach you can enjoy some great surfing and windsurfing opportunities. The Entrance has become a popular holiday destination, particularly for families, and it is easy to see why. The region is home to some great beaches.
Tips: After your road trip in your rental car, make sure to return the car with a full tank of fuel to avoid any extra charges.
Recommended car: If you are travelling with the whole family, a full-size SUV is the way to go. You’ll have plenty of room for all of the kids and any luggage you have.
Travel time: The drive from Sydney will only take you an hour in your rental car.
Directions: Head north on the Pacific Motorway. There are a number of different exits you can use for the Central Coast, depending on which town you are visiting.
