The Best Beaches in NSW Days Kms Stops New South Wales (NSW) is home to some of the most iconic and picturesque beaches in Australia, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to spend some time underneath their beach umbrella on Australia's sandy shores! From the world-famous Bondi Beach in Sydney to the tranquil shores of Hyams Beach and the quiet refuge of Shelly Beach, this guide will take you through the top beaches you simply can’t miss on your NSW beach-hopping adventure. Why the beaches in NSW should be on your bucket list New South Wales beaches are renowned for their stunning diversity, offering everything from the bustling surf culture of Sydney beaches to the untouched beauty of more secluded spots along the south coast. Whether you’re into surfing epic waves, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the sun on soft sands, this state has it all. One of the standout features of NSW is the incredible variety of spectacular beaches available. In one trip, you could catch a wave at Bondi Beach, wander along the serene coastal walks of Coogee Beach, or find your own slice of nirvana in Byron Bay. The south coast beaches of NSW are particularly noteworthy for their rugged, pristine conditions and uncrowded shores. These beaches, recovering beautifully from past bushfires, offer a unique opportunity to explore the Aussie bushland that hugs these coastlines. But the magic of NSW’s beaches doesn’t stop at the shoreline. The surrounding areas are just as impressive, with lush national parks, vibrant marine life, and quaint coastal towns begging to be explored. What’s the best way to explore the beaches in NSW? When it comes to exploring the beaches in NSW, nothing beats a campervan. Whether it is waking up to the sound of the ocean, having your morning coffee with a view of the waves, or taking the road less travelled to discover hidden gems along the coastline, a camper is your ticket anywhere. One of the greatest advantages of a campervan to explore the best beaches in New South Wales is the ability to stay directly near the beach. Many of NSW’s most beautiful beaches have nearby holiday parks or free camping car park spots that cater to campervan travellers. This not only saves you money on accommodation but also puts you right in the heart of the action, allowing you to maximise your time by the sea and access the beach with just a short walk. Plus, with everything you need on board, from cooking facilities to comfortable sleeping arrangements, you can easily adapt your plans based on weather conditions, local events, or simply a change of mood. Want to extend your stay at Byron Bay because the surf’s too good to leave? No problem. Fancy a detour to Port Macquarie for some dolphin watching? You can do that too. For those on a budget, a campervan is also one of the most cost-effective ways to travel. This allows you to spend more on experiences and less on costly hotels or flights, making your dream Australia road trip both memorable and affordable. Ready to explore the best beaches in NSW? Stay tuned as we dive into the top beaches you won’t want to miss. In the meantime, don’t forget to check out our other top guides to NSW: Best budget-friendly campgrounds in New South Wales Best budget-friendly things to do in Sydney Best free campsites in New South Wales Image: Destination NSW The 8 best beaches in NSW In this section, we’ll dive into the eight best New South Wales beaches, from the lively vibe of Bondi Beach to the tranquil beauty of Jervis Bay. Ready to discover your next favourite spot by the sea? Let's dive into 8 of the best beaches in Sydney and beyond! 1. Bondi Beach Bondi Beach is arguably one of the most famous beaches in Sydney, and for good reason. Located just 8 kilometres from the heart of Sydney, Bondi is a vibrant neighbourhood where surfers flock to ride the consistent waves, and beachgoers can swim in the ocean rock pools at either end of the beach or within the red and yellow flags. While visiting the area, don’t miss the chance to take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This 6-kilometre trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and passes by several other popular beaches in the eastern beaches of Sydney. Where to stay near Bondi Beach For campervan travellers, the Sydney Tourist Park is an excellent base from which to explore this lovely beach. Located just a short drive from Bondi, this park offers all the facilities you need, including powered sites, clean amenities, and a communal kitchen. 2. Manly Beach When it comes to visiting beaches in Sydney, this one is non-negotiable. A short 17-kilometre drive from Sydney's CBD, Manly Beach is a gorgeous 2-kilometre stretch of golden sand, bordered by iconic Norfolk pines, and offers some of the best waves in the region. Nestled between Sydney Harbour National Park and the Pacific Ocean, Manly is also a stunning spot for nature lovers. You can take a stroll along the Manly Scenic Walkway, enjoy snorkelling in the calm waters of Shelly Beach, or even take a ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly, which is one of the most scenic ways to arrive and a perfect chance to bask in the beauty of Sydney Harbour and marvel at the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Where to stay near Manly Beach When it comes to campervan accommodation, NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is a fantastic option. Located near the Northern Beaches, this park offers modern facilities, including a camp kitchen, BBQ areas, and a kids’ playground, making it perfect for families. The park’s serene setting by Narrabeen Lake offers a peaceful retreat while still being within easy reach of Manly Beach and other popular beaches in Sydney. 3. Byron Bay Looking for a place to unwind? Byron Bay is a beachside town synonymous with laid-back vibes, stunning beaches, and a vibrant arts scene. Located about 800 kilometres north of Sydney, Byron Bay is a coastal town that perfectly blends relaxation with adventure. The main beach in Byron Bay is postcard-perfect with its long stretches of sand and gentle waves, ideal for a swim or learning to surf. Beyond the beach, Byron Bay is famous for its alternative lifestyle and wellness culture. You’ll find plenty of yoga studios, organic cafés, and local markets to explore. Don’t miss a hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of mainland Australia, where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views. It is also a popular spot to go whale watching between June and November. Where to stay near Byron Bay For those traveling with a campervan, First Sun Holiday Park is the ideal base. Located right on the beachfront, the park offers direct access to the beach and the heart of Byron Bay. Facilities include powered sites, BBQ areas, and clean amenities, all within walking distance of the town’s vibrant shops and eateries. This park’s unbeatable location makes it easy to experience everything Byron Bay has to offer, from sunrise surf sessions to sunset markets. Image: Destination NSW 4. Jervis Bay Jervis Bay is often described as a slice of paradise, and it’s easy to see why. Located about 200 kilometres south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is renowned for its sparkling white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beaches here, like Murrays Beach and Honeymoon Bay, are often cited as having the whitest sand in the world, making them a must-see for any beach itinerary through NSW. But Jervis Bay is more than just a nice beach. The area is part of a marine park and so the waters are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, whales, and seals. From snorkelling and diving to dolphin-watching cruises to hiking in the surrounding national parks, there is no shortage of things to do in this corner of NSW. Where to stay near Jervis Bay When visiting Jervis Bay, Jervis Bay Holiday Park offers a convenient and comfortable base for campervan travellers. Located on the banks of Currambene Creek, the park offers waterfront sites, a boat ramp, and a swimming pool, making it ideal for families and those looking to take advantage of the water activities. The park’s peaceful setting and modern amenities provide the perfect retreat after a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Jervis Bay. Image: Destination NSW 5. Hyams Beach, South Coast Just another hour's drive south, you will find yourself on the shores of Hyams Beach in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. This pristine beach, surrounded by the lush greenery of Booderee National Park, is just a 2.5-hour drive south of Sydney. For the ocean lovers of the group, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding, offering a refreshing retreat from the warm Australian sun. For those who prefer staying on land, the surrounding area is crisscrossed with scenic coastal walks, including the popular White Sands Walk, where you can encounter native wildlife like kangaroos and birds in their natural habitat. Where to stay near Hyams Beach For campervan travellers, Bream Beach Holiday Park is an excellent base from which to explore Hyams Beach. Located just 15 minutes away, this park offers a peaceful retreat nestled between the waters of St Georges Basin and the natural bushland. The park features powered sites, a well-equipped camp kitchen, clean amenities, and even its own private beach area. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or set off on an adventure, Bream Beach Holiday Park provides the ideal combination of comfort and convenience for your Australia road trip. 6. Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour, situated halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, is a coastal gem that offers much more than just the iconic Big Banana. With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and proximity to some of the region’s most beautiful natural attractions, Coffs Harbour is a top choice for beach holidays in NSW. The town’s beaches, such as Park Beach and Diggers Beach, are perfect for surfing, swimming, or simply relaxing on the sand. One of the other key attractions near Coffs Harbour is the Solitary Islands Marine Park, where you can explore a vibrant underwater world filled with coral reefs, tropical fish, and even turtles. This area is also the gateway to the scenic Waterfall Way. This drive takes you through lush rainforests and past stunning waterfalls, offering a perfect contrast to your coastal explorations. Where to stay near Coffs Harbour BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park is the ideal spot to set up camp close by in your camper. Located right next to Park Beach, this holiday park offers an unbeatable location with direct beach access within just a couple minute's walk. The park is well-equipped with facilities such as a large swimming pool, camp kitchen, BBQ areas, and clean amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. 7. Port Macquarie Port Macquarie is a coastal town located on the Mid-North Coast of NSW, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Just a four-hour drive north of Sydney, Port Macquarie is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Town Beach and Flynns Beach, which are popular spots for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The town is also famous for its koala population, with the Koala Hospital being a must-visit for animal lovers. Beyond the beaches, the area offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking in the nearby Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park to exploring the Hastings River by kayak. Where to stay near Port Macquarie NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park is a favourite among campervan travellers. Located by the Hastings River, it is within walking distance of Town Beach and features powered sites, a camp kitchen, clean amenities, and a resort-style swimming pool. The park's location also puts you close to the town centre, where you can enjoy easy access to the nearby restaurants, cafés, and shops. Image: Destination NSW 8. Newcastle Beach Newcastle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the city of Newcastle. Located just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, this is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you are wandering along the scenic promenade, enjoying a swim at the historic Newcastle Ocean Baths or catching some waves at Newcastle Beach, this gorgeous beach deserves a spot on any northbound itinerary. Where to stay near Newcastle Beach For those looking to stay in the area, NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park offers a fantastic base for exploring Newcastle. Located just across the harbour from Newcastle Beach, this holiday park provides easy access to the city via a short ferry ride. The park offers powered sites, modern amenities, a camp kitchen, and BBQ facilities, making it an ideal spot for campervan travellers. The park’s beachfront location on Stockton Beach allows you to enjoy both the urban and natural beauty of Newcastle, providing the best of both worlds. Image: Destination NSW A few other beautiful beaches to add to your NSW campervan hire itinerary Whether you're looking to add a few more stops to your Australia road trip or simply want to explore some lesser-known coastal gems, these additional beaches are worth considering. Pebbly Beach Famous for its resident kangaroos that often laze on the sand, Pebbly Beach offers a quintessentially Australian beach experience within the beautiful Murramarang National Park. Murrays Beach Nestled in the Booderee National Park, Murrays Beach boasts crystal-clear waters and is a top spot for snorkelling with abundant marine life just offshore. Tallow Beach Located near Byron Bay, Tallow Beach is a long, unspoiled stretch of sand that provides a serene environment for surfers and beachgoers looking to escape the crowds. Mystery Bay This secluded beach is known for its rocky coastline littered with rock pools and serene lush bushland. Long Beach Situated on the South Coast near Batemans Bay, Long Beach is perfect for a relaxing day out, offering calm waters that are ideal for swimming and picnicking. Port Stephens A stunning coastal region featuring a collection of pristine beaches, Port Stephens is known for its clear waters, excellent dolphin-watching opportunities, and the massive sand dunes at Stockton Beach. Caves Beach Known for its dramatic sea caves that are best explored during low tide, Caves Beach is a family-friendly destination that offers a unique coastal adventure. Palm Beach This beach near Sydney is renowned for its golden sands and relaxed vibe. Palm Beach is a favourite among surfers and sunbathers, with highlights including the ocean bath and the scenic Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Book your Cheapa campa today Ready to hit the road and park up just a few minutes walk from these stunning coastline destinations? You can easily book your Cheapa camper online and pick it up from any Cheapa branch before starting your journey. With a campervan as your home on wheels, you’re set for an unforgettable adventure exploring the best beaches in New South Wales. Safe travels and happy beach hopping!