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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. 

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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.

Tasmania | Hobart to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Itinerary
Heather Schiller

Tasmania | Hobart to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Itinerary

11 days of exploring breathtaking nature and beautiful coastlines

Day 1: Hobart

Start your Tasmanian adventure in Hobart and enjoy the contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture the city has to offer. If you’re lucky enough to be in Hobart on a Saturday, make sure you visit Australia’s most loved and vibrant outdoor markets - the Salamanca Markets.

Where to stay: Discovery Parks Hobart

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

Day 2: Hobart to Strahan

Distance: 314 km
Travel time: 4 Hours 35 minutes

From Hobart, head northwest towards your first stop - the fishing village of Strahan. Strahan is full of stories from the days of convicts and pioneers. However, these days Strahan is an iconic travel destination with delicious local produce and artisan wares. 

Where to stay: Big 4 Strahan Holiday Retreat

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Day 3: Strahan

This harbourside village is teaming with things to do. Explore the Gordon River, uncover the history of Sarah Island, or go searching for Platypuses at Hogarth Falls before enjoying the sunset over the water.

Where to stay: Big 4 Strahan Holiday Retreat

Image: Instagram - @_letsescapetogether_

 

Day 4: Strahan to Cradle Mountain

Distance: 138km
Travel time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Get ready for your pinch me moments. A 2 hour drive from Strahan will find you at Cradle Mountain, one of the popular gems in Tasmania. Be sure to charge up your camera on your way, we have a feeling you’ll be using it a lot as you drive past the magnificent alpine scenery.

Where to stay: Cradle Mountain Discovery Park

Image: Jake Ward

 

Day 5: Cradle Mountain

Dust out your hiking boots, they’re going to put to good use today. Explore some of the most jaw‑dropping scenery you’ll see in Australia on the Cradle Mountain hike. If you’re not feeling so adventurous, set up the tripod and take some photos at the famous Dove Lake.

Where to stay: Cradle Mountain Discovery Park

Image: Jake Ward

 

Day 6: Cradle Mountain to Launceston

Distance: 141 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Bade farewell to Cradle Mountain and continue your journey along to Launceston. Less than 2 hours later, arrive at one of the most populated cities in Tasmania. If you’re in the area between December and January, head north to Bridestowe Lavender Farm to spend the afternoon wrapped up in purple hues, sweet scent and endless photo opportunities.

Where to stay: Big 4 Launceston Holiday Park

Image: Nick H Visuals

 

Day 7: Launceston to Freycinet

Distance: 185 km
Travel Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Prepared to be spell bound, because Freycinet really will stun you. About a 2.5 hour drive south‑west of Launceston, look forward to discovering the delights of Freycinet National Park.

Where to stay: Freycinet Campground

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Day 8: Freycinet

While the actual wine may be lacking, views of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park certainly are not. If you would prefer to see the National Park at a more leisurely pace, board a cruise to see the park from the water. Spend day 8 of your Tasmania road trip exploring one of the must do attractions in Tasmania!

Where to stay: Freycinet Campground

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Day 9: Freycinet to Port Arthur

Distance: 189 km
Travel Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Uncover Port Arthur, a town full of convict history and so much to see. And for those who want to extend your trip, the multi‑day Three Capes Track near Port Arthur is a must do hike in Tasmania.

Where to stay: NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Day 10: Port Arthur to Hobart

Distance: 100 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Head back to Hobart, but not before stopping at Richmond. Only 25 minutes out of Hobart, no trip to Tasmania is complete without a photo op under the Richmond Bridge.

Where to stay: Discovery Parks - Mornington Hobart

Image: Instagram - @andrewatsonphoto

 

Day 11: Hobart

Unfortunately, it's time to say farewell to your #ApolloCamper and start already planning your next trip back here! Before you leave Hobart, make sure you make a stop at The Museum of Old and New Art – Mona is Australia's largest private museum and one of the most controversial private collections of modern art and antiquities in the world. Described by its owner as a "subversive adult Disneyland", the collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to some of the world's most infamous and thought-provoking contemporary art.

 

 

 

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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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