Weekend Getaways from Sydney the Whole Family Will Love

Sydney is surrounded by some incredible spots for weekend getaways. In just a few hours in any direction, you can find yourself by the beach, up a mountain, or around local wildlife. And when you’ve got this guide, and a Dollar rental car, you can pack your bags and track down these spots with ease. Join us as we head out of Sydney for the weekend! 

Blue Mountains  

Just two hours west of Sydney is the Blue Mountains. Here, you can explore the walking trails around Echo Point, visit the famous Three Sisters lookout, or ride the Scenic Railway at Scenic World. In Leura and Katoomba, you’ll find cosy cafés, bakeries and toy shops perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Don’t miss Wentworth Falls for an easy bushwalk with incredible views, or take a detour to Featherdale Wildlife Park on the way back for a chance to meet kangaroos and koalas. 

Jervis Bay  

Jervis Bay is one of the most family-friendly beach escapes in New South Wales. The drive takes about three hours, and the payoff is some of the clearest, bluest, calmest water in Australia. Hyams Beach is the star attraction, famous for its powdery white sand, while nearby Huskisson offers cafés, playgrounds, and easy access to dolphin-watching cruises. For families who love camping or picnicking, Booderee National Park has shaded spots right beside the beach, which makes it perfect for swimming, snorkelling and soaking up the scenery.  

Central Coast  

For something a little closer, try Central Coast. It’s less than 90 minutes north of Sydney, and full of laid-back charm. Terrigal and Avoca Beach both offer gentle surf, patrolled swimming areas, and cafés just steps from the sand. In The Entrance, the daily pelican feeding is a hit with kids, while the nearby Tuggerah Lakes Cycleway is great for a family bike ride. The Central Coast is the kind of place where you can spend a whole weekend without rushing. 

Kangaroo Valley  

For something a little different, head inland to Kangaroo Valley, which is about two hours south of Sydney, passing through rolling hills and farmland along the way. Take the family canoeing on the Kangaroo River, explore nearby waterfalls, or visit Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park for an easy bushwalk. The valley’s small cafés and markets serve excellent local produce, and there are plenty of cabins and farm stays that make for a cosy night away. 

Port Stephens  

Port Stephens is another family fave. Nelson Bay has calm beaches, while Stockton Bight Sand Dunes is the place for sandboarding, quad biking, or a 4WD tour. The kids will love the dolphin-seeing tours (which run year-round), plus spotting whales from May to November. For a short walk with incredible views, try the Tomaree Head Summit Walk. 

Escape Sydney With Dollar 

Sydney is perfectly placed for weekend getaways. In a few hours or less, you can immerse yourselves in some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, parkland and charming towns, each offering something special for the whole family. Pick your place, and a weekend, then grab the keys to your Dollar rental car to make it all possible