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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.

Western Australia | Perth to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary

Western Australia | Perth to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary

Discover the best of the west on this 16 day Perth to Darwin road trip itinerary along the Western Australia coastline.

Day 1: Perth to Cervantes

Distance: 213km

Travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Pick up your Apollo camper at our Perth branch and get ready to head north. On the way to Cervantes take the slight detour to The Pinnacles. Formed approximately 25, 000 years ago when sea levels receded, today The Pinnacles stand as a popular tourist and photography enthusiasts attraction. 

 

Day 2: Cervantes to Geraldton

Distance: 223kms

Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Continue north today in the direction of Geraldton, the only city in Western Australia's Coral Coast and famous for great windsurfing conditions. While you're here be sure to visit the iconic red and white Point Moore Lighthouse. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 3: Geraldton to Monkey Mia

Distance: 432kms

Travel time: 4 hours 25 minutes

An exciting destination awaits you today - Monkey Mia! Enjoy the sunset this evening and get ready for an exciting wildlife experience tomorrow morning. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 4: Monkey Mia 

Monkey Mia is a famous Western Australia destination thanks to more than 40 years of wild dolphin encounters. Everyday at 7:45am, meet a ranger in front of the visitor centre and watch on as dolphins visit the beach until midday. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia
 

Day 5: Monkey Mia to Carnarvon

Distance: 352kms

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Say goodbye to the Monkey Mia dolphins and continue north to Carnarvon. We recommend including a visit to the Quobba Blowholes, found 75km north of Carnarvon. Here you can witness the ocean pushing into sea caves and up through narrow holes in the rocks to propell impressive jets of water into the air. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 6: Carnarvon to Exmouth

Distance: 364kms

Travel time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Exmouth is calling! The gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth has been a popular tourist destination for decades - and for good reason! Ningaloo Reef is Australia's largest fringing reef (yep, you can step right off the beach to the reef!) and over 50% of Indian Ocean species are found here! If you time your trip between March and July, there are even multiple opportunites to swim with whale sharks.

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 7: Exmouth to Karratha

Distance: 549kms

Travel time: 5 hours 45 minutes

Say goodbye to the pearly white sand of Exmouth and hello to Karratha! After just under 6 hours on the road today, aquaint yourself with this town of just over 20,000 people with a trip up to TV Hill Lookout. Don't worry, there is no walking required to take in this view as you can drive right to the top! 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 8: Karratha to Port Hedland

Distance: 230kms

Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Connecting the Pilbara and Kimberley regions of Western Australia, you'll find Port Hedland. Port Hedland is famous for being salty - in a good way. More than 3 million tonnes of salt is harvested at Port Hedland each year (making a tour to the salt mines a must do while in Port Hedland!). This town is also home to the world's largest bulk export port and boasts some of the world's largest ships. 

 

Day 9: Port Hedland to Broome

Distance: 609kms

Travel time: 6 hours

Wave goodbye to the salt and the ships and say hello to Broome. Arrive before dark to experience another spectacular Western Australia sunset. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 10: Broome

Welcome to Broome, today is yours to explore! Whether you join a guided pearl farm tour or visit Australia's most remote brewery, make sure you finish your day with a sunset at the world famous Cable Beach. Operating 7 days a week, be sure to join a sunset camel ride across Cable Beach for an incredible, bucket-list experience. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia
 

Day 11: Broome to Fitzroy Crossing

Distance: 397kms

Travel time: 4 hours

Say goodbye to the Western Australia coast and head inland. Today's destination is Fitzroy Crossing, a true outback town. While you're here make sure to visit the nearby Danggu Geikie Gorge. If you are visiting between May and October, join a boat tour to gain a greater understanding of this historical area. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 12: Fitzroy Crossing to Halls Creek

Distance: 289kms

Travel time: 2 hours 55 minutes

The site of Western Australia's first gold discovery is the destination for today. Halls Creek, a small outback town with the population of less than 4,000 people. From here you can enjoy a scenic flight over the world heritage listed Purnululu National Park and experience the striking beehive like formations found no where else on Earth. 

 

Day 13: Halls Creek to Kununarra

Distance: 358kms

Travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Your final day on the Great Northern Highway, enjoy the 3 hours and 40 minutes travel through remote Australia before arriving at Kununarra.

Image: Instagram - @melissafindley

 

Day 14: Kununarra

Your final full day in Western Australia. While you're in Kununurra be sure to visit Lake Argyle, Australia's second largest man-made lake, several times larger than the Sydney Harbour. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 15: Kununarra to Katherine

Distance: 515kms

Travel time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Leave Western Australia and cross into the Northern Territory. After the five and a bit hours on the road today, relax and unwind from the drive at the vibrant Katherine Hot Springs, just minutes away from the main street of Katherine. 

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

Day 16: Katherine to Darwin Apollo Branch

Distance: 317kms

Travel time: 3 hours 10 minutes

The last day of one epic adventure. On your way to Darwin stop in at Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park for a relaxing swim before an easy drop off at the Darwin Apollo Branch. 

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

 

 

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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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