New South Wales (NSW) is one of the oldest and most diverse states in Australia, housing the biggest capital city in the nation, Sydney. Sydney being its capital has allowed millions of tourists to explore the region’s famous tourist attractions including landmark architectures, top-class restaurants and bars, galleries, museums and so on. Venture past this incredible harbour city and you will stumble upon a state full of surprises. Here are a few top NSW attractions for your next visit.
Sydney Harbour Cruises
If you thought this list would not kick off with a Sydney attraction, you are clearly wrong. Sydney’s Harbour is the biggest of its kind in the world and houses two of the monumental structures of the nation including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sign up for a lunch cruise in the harbour and experience a classy waterfront dining in the backdrop of these icons. Among other things, what catches the eye of many tourists and residents alike is that the cruise brings a sumptuous menu right to you along with photo opportunities as you cruise past the house, the bridge, Fort Denison, Luna Park and many more! You also get to choose from top vessels to cruise the harbour including a modern catamaran, a premium glass boat and a paddlewheeler! A Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise is definitely a refreshing alternative to regular dining offering sweeping views of the city skyline and unrivalled photo ops!
Lord Howe Island
The next destination is a World Heritage-Listed haven for serenity-enthusiasts and nature admirers. Only permitting upto 400 guests at a time, this spectacular island is surrounded by a stunning coral reef and is only about 660 kilometres off the north coast of NSW. There are enough natural gems to spend as much as a whole week here with a large number of islets, dramatic cliffs that rise above the coast, azure beaches, native forests of pandanus and kentia palms and a mesmerising panoramic view from the summit of Mt. Gower. Other exciting things you can do here include fishing, surfing, kayaking and hiking along the many walking paths. With no cellphone reception it is the best destination to enjoy a break from the stress of daily life and in a peaceful ambience.
Port Stephens
North to Newcastle, an hour drive away, you can find a massive blue-water bay enclosed by two volcanic headlands, known as Port Stephens. Fringed by pockets of natural bushland, there are over 26 white-sand beaches here and is a famous dolphin and whale spotting area. Although this is a popular summer spot for tourists, you can still find numerous secluded beaches for a quiet swim under the sun, for fishing or other water spots such as surfing, kayaking and boating. Quad biking or sledding on the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere is also one among the popular activities here. If you feel like burning those calories you can hop on the Tomaree Head summit walk which is a steep trail that will lead you to a spot where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Port Stephens coastline.
Coonabarabran
How about a Dark Sky Park for the last destination on the list? Good ol’ Coonabarabran is a central-west town of NSW, residing near the famous Warrumbungle National Park. This national park is a globally recognised area of crystal clear skies, which is the perfect setting to stargaze at night. The area sits on top of a volcanic mountain range and is ideal if you're looking for a camping getaway. Head to the city and the streets which come alive during the weekend if you're looking to bag up some native plants and city products like jewellery, local-made jams, honey and furnishings.
