The Best Beaches In NSW

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Who doesn’t love a good beach holiday?! We are so lucky to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, right here in Australia. This blog is going to showcase and outline what we think are the best beaches in NSW that should make it to your travel itinerary when planning your Australian road trip. From the best beaches in Sydney, all the way down and up the coast, we’re covered our top picks to make your travel planning all the easier.

Oysters Family at the beach Salad

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But first, what’s the best way to explore NSW

When you book a motorhome or campervan hire to explore in, you’ll have all the freedom to take the trip on your own time, and see places you may not have otherwise seen. This is one of the reasons we love this style of travel so much! What’s more is that you’ll be able to save money on accommodation and eating out, meaning you’ll have more money to spend on activities or to extend your trip! It’s a no-brainer we think, especially when travelling throughout NSW!

Top 10 beaches in NSW

1.   Palm Beach, Sydney

First on our list of best beaches in NSW is the picturesque and famous Palm Beach. This is a gorgeous spot located on the northernmost tip of Sydney's Northern Beaches, and is definitely worth a visit!

To get here from the Britz Sydney branch, you'll need to drive for around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic, passing through some of Sydney's most picturesque suburbs and coastal areas, so keep your camera handy!

Once you arrive at Palm Beach, you'll be greeted by a beautiful stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs, which make for a dramatic backdrop. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, whether you're into swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun. Palm Beach is also a perfect spot for a picnic or walk. There are plenty of grassy areas where you can lay out a blanket and enjoy a bite to eat, or you can take a stroll along the beach or head up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse for some spectacular views.


Image: Destination NSW

 

2.   Curl Curl Beach, Manly 

Curl Curl Beach is another popular spot on Sydney's Northern Beaches, known for its golden sand, clear water, and consistent surf.

From the Britz Sydney branch, the drive to Curl Curl Beach is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You'll need to head north on the Pacific Highway and take the exit for Warringah Road towards Dee Why. From there, you can follow the signs to Curl Curl Beach and find parking in the nearby car park.

The area around Curl Curl Beach is great for those lovers of outdoor activities. You can bring a picnic and enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze, or take a dip in the ocean to cool off after a day exploring the area. Plus, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, so it's safe for swimming and surfing. If you're feeling more active, there's a scenic coastal walk that starts at the southern end of the beach and takes you past stunning ocean views and rock formations.


3.   Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay

Heading south from the city this time will lead you to our next destination, Hyams Beach. The drive from the Britz Sydney branch to Hyams Beach will take around 2.5 hours, and will have you driving southwards along the coast, passing through some charming seaside towns and countryside landscapes.

Hyams Beach is a picturesque beach and village located in Jervis Bay, which is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. In fact, Jervis Bay is home to the world's whitest sand, and Hyams Beach is one of the most popular spots to witness it! Apart from the beach, Hyams Beach is also surrounded by breathtaking natural attractions, including Booderee National Park, which boasts stunning bush walks up to scenic lookouts. The park is also home to some of the most incredible marine life, including dolphins, whales, and seals.

When it comes to activities, Hyams Beach is ideal for picnics, swimming, and leisurely walks, and during the summer months the beach is patrolled, so it's safe for swimming and water sports for those less confident in the water. You can also enjoy a picnic with your family or friends at the beach or take a walk along the white sand while soaking up the warming sun.


4.   Wategos Beach, Byron Bay

The drive from the Britz Brisbane branch to Wategos Beach in Byron Bay is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, and is a scenic drive that takes you through some beautiful coastal towns and past lush green hinterland.

Wategos Beach itself is located in the Cape Byron State Conservation Area, which is a secluded cove that is often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia! The beach is surrounded by bushland and cliffs, which give it a very intimate and serene feel.

Wategos Beach is a great spot for picnics and relaxing on the sand, but it's also perfect for swimming and surfing with lifeguards patrolling the waters. The crystal-clear waters are inviting and refreshing, and the surf is great for beginners and experienced surfers alike. You can also take a leisurely walk along the beach to soak up the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, or take the lighthouse walk up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse to get a bird’s eye view of the area, a must-do in our opinion!


Image: Destination NSW

 

5.   Mollymook, South Coast

Next on our list is the beautiful Mollymook Beach, which is located on the South Coast of NSW. The drive from Britz Sydney branch to Mollymook takes approximately 3 hours and promises stunning scenery along the way.

Mollymook Beach is a picturesque beach that is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing. One of the unique features of this area is the sea caves, which are regarded as some of the best sea caves in Australia! These caves are located at the southern end of Mollymook Beach, and you can explore them during low tide. It's a great spot for adventure seekers and those who love exploring the natural beauty of Australia.

Apart from the sea caves, Mollymook is also a great place to take a stroll along the coastline or enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby parks that are surrounded by lush greenery.


6.   Red Rock, Yuraygir National Park

Next on our list is a lesser known beach but just as incredibly beautiful as those more known, that is Red Rock beach in the Yuraygir National Park. The drive from Britz Brisbane branch to Red Rock in Yuraygir National Park is just under a 4 hour journey, passing through charming towns, rolling countryside and coastal stretches.

Red Rock is a beautiful coastal town located in the northern region of New South Wales. It's nestled between the Yuraygir National Park and the Solitary Islands Marine Park, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. It’s known for its picturesque headland, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and is a popular spot for whale watching during the migration season. The town is also home to a scenic estuary that's great for fishing and kayaking.

The beaches here are some of the best on the Coffs Coast, and you can take a leisurely stroll along the coastline or venture out into the national park for some bushwalking. One of our favourite things to do in the area is head up to the Red Rock Headland, which is a short walk from the town centre. It's an ideal spot for watching the sunrise or sunset, and you can often see dolphins playing in the surf!


Image: Destination NSW

 

7.   Pebbly Beach, South Coast 

Pebbly Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the South Coast in a motorhome or campervan, so it’s no surprise it’s made it to our list. The drive from Britz Sydney branch to Pebbly Beach is a scenic one that will take around 3 hours to complete.

Pebbly Beach is located in Bawley Point, which is part of the beautiful South Coast region of New South Wales. It's a stunning beach that's known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand. What makes it even more special is the fact that it's frequented by a friendly mob of kangaroos. These iconic animals are quite used to visitors and are even usually happy to pose for photos! In addition to kangaroo spotting, Pebbly Beach is also great for picnics, swimming, and nature walks. The beach is surrounded by bushland, so there are plenty of walking tracks to explore, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at surfing or fishing!

If you're planning on spending a few days in the area, (which we think you should) there is a caravan park located behind the beach. It's a great spot to set up in your Britz campervan hire and enjoy all that the South Coast has to offer.


8.   Tamarama Beach, Sydney

Situated between the world-famous Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach is Tamarama Beach that is a hidden gem offering a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. To get to Tamarama Beach from the Britz Sydney branch, you'll need to take a 20-25 minute drive along the coast. The route will take you through some of Sydney's most scenic areas, including the iconic Bondi Beach.

Once you arrive at Tamarama Beach, you'll find a small but beautiful cove with crystal clear waters and golden sand. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and headlands, giving it a secluded feel even though it's just a short distance from the city. Tamarama Beach is great for picnics, sunbathing, swimming and surfing, meaning there is something to keep the whole family entertained! There's also a coastal walk that connects Tamarama with Bondi and Bronte beaches, offering stunning views of the coastline along the way.


9.   Austinmer Beach

Next on our best beaches of NSW list is Austinmer Beach. Whether you’re looking to pass through on your road trip, or camp a few nights in your Britz Camper, you’re sure to love your visit here. The drive from Britz Sydney branch to Austinmer Beach should take you just over an hour, depending on traffic, and will take you south along a scenic coastal drive.

Austinmer Beach is a beautiful spot located in the northern suburbs of Wollongong, on the south coast of New South Wales. The beach is a crescent shape and is surrounded by rocky headlands, giving it a secluded and peaceful feel. One of the standout features of Austinmer Beach is the tidal swimming pool, which is perfect for those who prefer to swim in calm, controlled waters. The pool is located at the southern end of the beach and is fed by ocean water during high tide. It's a great spot for families with young children, as well as those who aren't confident swimmers.

Aside from swimming, Austinmer Beach is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks. There are plenty of grassy areas and shady trees where you can set up a picnic blanket and enjoy the sea breeze with a delicious array from the fridge of your Britz Camper. And if you're feeling up for a walk, there's a scenic coastal path that stretches along the beach and offers stunning views of the coastline.

 

Image: Destination NSW

 

10. Depot Beach, Bateman’s Bay

Depot Beach in Bateman’s Bay is next on our list of best beaches in NSW, and we’re sure once you see it you’d agree! Once you collect your Britz camper from the Britz Sydney branch, you can head down to the South Coast of New South Wales for around 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through charming coastal towns like Kiama, Nowra, and Ulladulla, each one perfect for a bite to eat and wander around.

Once you arrive at Depot Beach, you'll find yourself in the heart of Murramarang National Park, a pristine wilderness area that's home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The beach itself is a picturesque stretch of sand that's perfect for swimming, surfing, or just relaxing in the sun. There are also plenty of walking tracks and hiking trails in the area, which will take you through lush rainforest, over rocky headlands, and past hidden waterfalls. While here, you're likely to spot kangaroos grazing on the grassy headlands, and if you're lucky, you might even see a pod of dolphins or a migrating whale out to sea! For those wanting to set up camp for a night or two, there is a campground at Depot Beach, which will be a great base for your daily explorations.


11. The Pass, Byron Bay

Another gem of a beach in Byron Bay is The Pass which is a must-visit if in the area. The drive from the Britz Brisbane branch to The Pass in Byron Bay will take a little under 3 hours and promises beautiful scenery along the way.

The area around The Pass is simply stunning. It's located at the southern end of Main Beach in Byron Bay, and it's surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling. The beach itself is relatively small, but there's plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. There are several grassy areas where you can set up a blanket and enjoy a picnic lunch, and there are also several walking trails that offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.


12. Port Macquarie Beach

Port Macquarie Beach is the next beach to hit our best beaches list, and is located around 4 hours north of Sydney. The drive from the Britz Sydney branch to Port Macquarie will take you through a number of charming towns and villages, including Newcastle and Taree, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for cute cafes and eateries to stop in to break up the drive!

Once you arrive at Port Macquarie, you'll find yourself in a beautiful coastal town on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. The area is known for its stunning beaches, national parks, and wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun, take a dip in the ocean, or go for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Port Macquarie Beach has got you covered. The beach is also a great spot for picnics and barbecues, with plenty of grassy areas and facilities available.

In addition to the beach itself, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Port Macquarie, such as hiking through the rainforest in the nearby hinterland, exploring the local markets, and visiting the Koala Hospital.


13. Avoca Beach, Gosford

Chances are you’ve heard of Avoca Beach which is an easy drive out of the city of Sydney. Whether you're looking to swim, surf, hike, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery, this beautiful part of the world is well worth a visit! Once you’ve driven out of the city, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive up to the Central Coast where Avoca Beach is located.

This beautiful seaside town is known for its stunning beach, vibrant village atmosphere, and laid-back coastal lifestyle. The area is popular with locals and visitors alike, and there's plenty to see and do. The beach itself is a true highlight, with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water activities. There are also plenty of great spots for picnics and BBQs, and lots of walking trails that wind through the surrounding bushland and along the coastline!

One popular attraction in the area for locals and visitors alike is Avoca Lake, which is situated just behind the beach. This tranquil, picturesque lake is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching. It's also surrounded by lush parkland and walking trails, making it a fantastic spot for an easy walk or a delicious picnic.


14. Cabarita Beach, Tweed Coast

The Tweed Coast is home to so many beautiful beaches, and Cabarita Beach is definitely one of them! The drive from Britz Brisbane branch to Cabarita Beach is an easy highway and coastal drive that will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.

Once you get to Cabarita Beach you’ll discover a picturesque coastal town that offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions. The area is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and beautiful natural scenery, including lush rainforests and rolling hills. It's a popular destination for surfing, swimming, and fishing, and there are also plenty of great spots for picnics, walks, and other outdoor activities!

One of the main attractions in Cabarita Beach is the Cabarita Headland, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastline and is a popular spot for whale watching during the migration season.

 

Image: Destination NSW

 

15. Spooky Beach, Angourie

The last beach on our list is Spooky Beach in Angourie. To get here you can travel south from the Britz Brisbane branch, which will take a little under 4 hours of driving time, with plenty of cute coastal towns to stop off along the way. 

Spooky Beach itself is a beautiful and secluded beach located in Angourie, which is a small coastal town in the Clarence Valley region of New South Wales. It's a part of the Yuraygir National Park and is known for its pristine waters, white sands, and stunning views. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, which adds to the charm of the beach.

This beach is perfect for all those looking for a great spot for a picnic, to swim or to head out on a bush walk. The beach is not patrolled, so swimming should be done with caution, and those who love surfing are in for a real treat with many surfers flocking to the area to catch epic waves. If you're not into surfing, you can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery or have a picnic on the grassy area near the beach.

 

Where to stay in NSW

BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park

The BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park is a wonderful spot to park your campervan or motorhome. Nestled along the banks of the Tweed River, this holiday park is the perfect place to unwind and soak up some sun when exploring the area.

The park has great campsites for your Britz camper that feel private and peaceful, as well as great facilities including  a water park complete with a water slide and splash pool, perfect for kids and adults alike. There’s also a mini-golf course, tennis court, BBQ area and games room on offer, and you can also rent kayaks or paddle boards from the reception to explore the beautiful Tweed River!

 

NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park

If you’re exploring the mid-north coast of NSW and are looking for the perfect place to camp with your camper, then the NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park is the spot for you! Located in the beautiful towns of Forster and Tuncurry, and situated just a short stroll away from the picturesque Wallis Lake and a quick drive to the famous Forster Beach, this holiday park is the perfect place to unwind and relax.

The park is packed with facilities to ensure you have a comfortable stay. There's a resort-style swimming pool, a splash park for the kids, a playground, and a games room to keep everyone entertained. For those who enjoy being active, there are tennis and basketball courts, a mini-golf course, and bike hire available. If you prefer to take it easy, there's a cosy camp kitchen and BBQ facilities perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal with family and friends.

 

Reflections Holiday Parks - Seal Rocks Holiday Park

Another one of our favourite holiday parks to stay at when exploring NSW is the Reflections Holiday Parks - Seal Rocks Holiday Park. With its a stunning beachside location in the heart of the Myall Lakes National Park, this serene and secluded park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

The park offers a wide range of facilities and activities to make your stay enjoyable including a playground, BBQ area, camp kitchen, laundry, and Wi-Fi. One of the highlights of this park is the stunning Seal Rocks Beach, which is just a short walk away. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters, pristine sands, and great waves for surfing. You can also explore the nearby Seal Rocks Lighthouse and watch the whales during the migration season!

 

Ready for your next adventure?

As you can probably tell, we love a good beach holiday, especially when road tripping in NSW. If you’re feeling inspired to hit the open road and start exploring Australia in a motorhome or campervan, then head online or into a Britz branch to book your camper today!