The Complete Guide to Adventures Near Sydney, NSW

If you’re in an adventure rut or lacking inspiration, check out this guide to the best adventures near Sydney to help you get out and see your own backyard. This list has something for everyone and was put together with suggestions from our Explorer Project contributors!

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Our Biggest Adventure Handbook Ever!

From hikes you can reach by train, to cheeky canyons, wild swims, and stunning summits, consider this list your go-to resource for weekend adventures. There’s over a year’s worth of adventurous weekenders below and we’re just going to continue to add them – reckon you can crack them all?

Been on a rad escape that hasn’t made the list? Submit it to the Explorer Project and help us get everyone to an adventure near Sydney, or anywhere else in Australia.

Hiking

Sydney’s lucky to be surrounded by national parks, beaches, inlets… the list goes on. It doesn’t take long to leave the city and enter places like Royal National Park and the Blue Mountains. Sydney could possibly be the best capital city for day trip adventures.

Everyone clearly knows about the busy hikes which are usually popular for good reason (cause they’re epic). But we want to provide you with that added value of serenity.

We’ve selected 17 hikes that are close, have the best views and, at the best of times, are pretty quiet. 

17 Stunning Hikes Near Sydney

@andrew.exploring

Kayaking 

You won’t believe how relaxing kayaking can be. Also, you won’t believe how close these kayaking spots are to Sydney. I have a feeling that you might drive past one of the spots every day on your way to work. 

These day adventures are perfect for a morning adventure and don’t worry if you don’t have a kayak. Most of these locations have kayaks available for hire. Saves you having to lug a couple of kayaks on the roof of your Toyota Corolla.

7 Spots to Kayak Near Sydney

Lookouts

It’s highly unlikely a lookout will disappoint. Even when it’s stormy the rolling clouds can be impressive. The best thing about a lookout is that you can also bring that extra bit of stuff like a chair or even some wine glasses. 

We’ve picked a list of lookouts that you can see epic views from any time of the day. There’s even a lookout that we recommend visiting at night time. 

5 Must-See Lookouts Near Sydney

Waterfall Chasing

That elusive sound of a waterfall echoing through a valley is the most relaxing sound out there. Surely you agree? If you’re not sure what I mean or totally agree then I highly suggest heading to a waterfall near you. Sydney is spoilt to have some of the most beautiful waterfalls on its doorstep. You don’t even need a car to find one of them.

Waterfalls Near Sydney

@salty.peaks.collective

Bike Riding

You heard it here first – bike riding is the next biggest adventure trend. This is one sport that suits all ages and levels whether it be a simple Saturday morning ride or a full day on the trails. It’s a quick way to see more when compared to hiking, so if trails are getting a little monotonous, why not jump on two wheels and adventure near Sydney?

4 Unique Bike Trails Near Sydney

@henry_brydon

Canyoning

There’s a high chance you’ve never canyoned before cause it’s not the easiest of sports to just pick up. Whether your first time is with a guide or you’re an experienced ‘gorge traveller,’ check out these epic locations for a splash around.

4 ‘Gorge-ous’ Canyons Near Sydney

4WDing

When was the last time you used the diff-locks? Head out to these locations to test that beast of a car you’ve been trying to get around Sydney in. 

Whether it be sand, mud, or just getting lost – take your car out and let it do what it was built for. If you’re a beginner, check out our guide to beginners 4WD tracks near Sydney so you can build up your skills before you tackle the harder routes. 

The Best 4WDing Near Sydney

@giveintoadventure

Wild Swimming

Swimming in a creek, river or lake has to be one of the best ways to spend a summer day. It just hits different to a pool and you don’t get that chlorine stink when it’s freshwater. 

To quote Frank Ocean: Take off this suit and swim good!

10 Wild Swimming Spots Near Sydney

Fishing

The endless waterways and beaches throughout Sydney mean there’s no shortage of places to throw in a line and pull out a fish.

Sydney’s blessed to have a selection of the best waterways in the world. And the blessing of daylight savings allows a cheeky after-work fishing session to catch dinner and get home (or to the campground) by sunset.

These are some of the best fishing spots in Sydney.

10 Fishing Spots Near Sydney

Shot by James Wheeler

Camping

Whether you want to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves, or wake to morning mountain mist, you’ll find nature bliss at these camping spots near Sydney.

These camping sites are all tried and tested. They’re within 2-3 hours of Sydney, have varying facilities but are as far as possible from a caravan park! Sure you could hit up Lane Cove National Park, but so will every other Northern Sydney Explorer who can’t be bothered to escape the city.

They also aren’t just the same old stomping grounds that appear when Googling ‘camping near Sydney’ – these are our favourites.

Best Camping Spots Near Sydney

Photo via @mattiejgould

Glamping

Glamping is camping’s older, more fashionable, sister. She’s all about treating yo self and prioritising comfort while enjoying the best that the outdoors has to offer. And it doesn’t get much better than glamping in Sydney

In recent years, glamping has levelled up to become even more luxurious than just a tent with a wood burning stove and sink inside (yes, seriously!). Now you can get la di dah safari tents, hot showers, a king size bed, buffet dinners…even an ensuite bathroom!

Most glamping sites in Australia are based in beautiful off-grid bush settings with exclusive access to guarantee your serenity. And if you play your cards right, you might find yourself glamping in Sydney. 

Best Glamping Spots Near Sydney

Shot by DNSW

Skinny Dipping

Sydney’s in no short supply of fantastic places to swim. But what if you’re feeling a little cheeky? We’ve searched high and low for the best secluded swim spots for skinny dipping near Sydney. Let’s dive in.

No matter what your age, skinny dipping is one of those heart-racing activities, dripping in giggles and anticipation, that fills you up with life. 

Stripping off every inch of clothing and high-tailing it to the water is liberating and rebellious and nerve-wracking all at once. 

Although public nudity ain’t cool, well, in public, if you can manage to find a nice concealed spot where you and your company are the only ones about, a cheeky nude swim can be a delight.

Check ’em out!

Best Skinny Dipping Spots Near Sydney

Shot by Paxson Woelber

Unique Adventures

Remember that time when you randomly discovered a new path or adventure just near your home?

Well, it’s going to happen again after you read through these 17 adventures near your home. The great thing is most of them are free and family-friendly.

17 Hidden Adventures Waiting for You Near Sydney

 

Feature image by @travelmademedoit_

FAQs Sydney Adventures

What are the best day hikes near Sydney?

Sydney has some incredible day hikes in its surrounding national parks, like the Royal National Park and Blue Mountains. Check out our guide to Coastal Walks Near Sydney for breathtaking views and serene trails.

Can I go kayaking near Sydney without owning a kayak?

Absolutely! Many kayaking spots around Sydney offer kayak rentals, so you don’t need to lug your own. Explore our list of 7 Spots to Kayak Near Sydney to find your next paddle adventure.

Where can I find the best lookouts near Sydney?

From sunrise views to nighttime panoramas, Sydney boasts some incredible lookouts. Check out our guide to Must-See Lookouts Near Sydney for the most epic spots to soak in the scenery.

Are there waterfalls near Sydney that are accessible by public transport?

Yes, Sydney has several waterfalls that don’t require a car to visit! Take a look at our list of Waterfalls Near Sydney for some stunning options you can reach by train or bus.

What are some hidden adventure spots near Sydney?

Looking for lesser-known gems? Dive into our guide to Hidden Adventures Waiting for You Near Sydney for unique experiences just outside your door.

Can I go canyoning near Sydney if I’m a beginner?

Definitely! There are guided canyoning options for beginners near Sydney as well as thrilling spots for seasoned adventurers. Start with our list of 4 ‘Gorge-ous’ Canyons Near Sydney to find your perfect splash zone.