Here is a great getaway from Sydney on the east coast if you want long pristine beaches that seem to stretch forever, crystal clear streams in lush pastures and towering forests blanketing mountain ranges.
Sydney and Brisbane Spot
Halfway between Sydney and Brisbane on the east coast of Australia and a popular tourism stopoff point for visitors, the North Coast region has claims to the best weather in Australia. The area also boasts a number of excellent restaurants and eateries with great food and fine wines to enjoy, plenty of things to do and wonderful coastal national parks.
Things to Do
Worthwhile visiting is The Hunter Wetlands Centre, a haven for Wildlife. Good opportunities for whale watching start in the middle of May along the coast, especially areas like Tomaree, Fishermans Bay and Stockton Beach.
There are also plenty of historical museums, art and craft galleries, eateries and markets, offering all sorts of locally made goods.
For those so inclined, there is water-skiing, horseriding, even hire a boat for your own cruising and fishing. There is excellent bushwalking in the national parks and along the coast, or even learn how to surf and dive.
Events and Festivals
Notable events and festivals include the Festival of Whales, marking the commencement of the annual migration of whales.
Tastes of the Bay Food & Wine Festival normally takes place in early November and in summertime there is the Summertime Rough Riding Rodeo, early in January.
Karuah
Karuah is gateway to the delights of the east coast and the beautiful mountain regions. Stop off at the Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, twin fishing villages on opposite sides of the Myall River.
Lakes Way on the Mid North Coast NSW themselves are an ecotourism paradise, where you can hire a houseboat or cruiser to explore the beautiful Myall Lakes National Park.
Great Lakes Things to Do
Bushwalking and mountain climbing, swimming, water skiing, trail bike riding and bird watching are some of the activities here. There are over 40 kms of beaches, giant dunes with a backdrop of natural rainforests make it a great place to visit.
Kayaking on the Wallis, Smith and Myall lakes make for a memorable experience.
Two other national parks here are Tomaree National Park, with stunning vistas from the lookout, with excellent bushwalking and swimming, as well as snorkelling, surfing and fishing. Booti Booti National Park also has wonderful views of the area and great fishing and swimming. See more on The Great Lakes.
There is a large variety of vacation stays available on the North Coast in the form of everything from hostels and backpackers to farmstays, Bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, self contained units, hotels, motels and some very nice resorts. View NSW Hotels
Working Australian holiday
For an affordable escape, consider a working Australian holiday. See Work in Australia.