• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Avoca Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Relaxing Beaches
© Daniela/stock.adobe.com

2. Berrima ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

© Phillip Minnis/stock.adobe.com

3. Berry

© Ilia Torlin/stock.adobe.com

4. Blue Mountains National Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© doom.ko/stock.adobe.com

5. Breenhold Gardens

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© gitusik/stock.adobe.com

6. Canberra

© esmehelit/stock.adobe.com

7. Glenworth Valley

© AlexandraDaryl/stock.adobe.com

8. Hawkesbury River Valley

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Phillip Minnis/stock.adobe.com

9. Jervis Bay

© Juergen Wallstabe/stock.adobe.com

10. Kangaroo Valley

© leelakajonkij/stock.adobe.com

11. Kiama

© Alizada Studios/stock.adobe.com

12. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Camila/stock.adobe.com

13. Manly Beach

Category: Relaxing Beaches
© Aleksandar Todorovic/stock.adobe.com

14. Mermaid Pools

© bakalaeroZz/stock.adobe.com

15. Newcastle

© s_porter/stock.adobe.com

16. Palm Beach

Category: Relaxing Beaches
© taki_o/stock.adobe.com

17. Port Stephens

© Michael Kühl/stock.adobe.com

18. Royal National Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© irisphoto1/stock.adobe.com

19. Stanwell Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Hermosa Drones/stock.adobe.com

20. The Entrance

© lifeofriley/stock.adobe.com

21. The Hunter Valley

© Arnab Maity/stock.adobe.com

22. The Southern Highlands

© Csák István/stock.adobe.com

23. Wombeyan Caves

© Greg Brave/stock.adobe.com

24. Kanangra-Boyd National Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© katacarix/stock.adobe.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Q: What makes Sydney such an iconic city?
  • A: Sydney is one of the most iconic cities in Australia and perhaps in the world, but it's hard to spend all your time in the city when you're surrounded by jaw-dropping natural beauty and charming seaside towns.
  • Q: What outdoor activities can you enjoy around Sydney?
  • A: Head up into the Blue Mountains for a day of hiking, drive down to the coast to relax on gorgeous white sand beaches, or immerse yourself in the area's history by taking a walk down an aboriginal heritage trail in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
  • Q: What are some great things to do outside of Sydney?
  • A: No matter how you feel like spending the day, you have plenty of great options to choose from.

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