Looking to take a romantic weekend away from Sydney with your main squeeze?
While Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to live in, sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle and get out with your beloved for a weekend getaway from Sydney.
We’ve put together a list of the 15 best weekend getaways Sydney couples will love, so you can plan your next sneaky romantic trip.
Whether you’re looking for an idyllic farm stay, a weekend of wine tasting, a foodie trip, or an active weekend hiking in the bush – we’ve got you sorted. This list of weekend trips from Sydney has something for every type of couple!
Here are 15 incredible weekend getaways Sydney couples should add to their must-do list!
Planning a romantic vacay? These 13 best destinations in the world for a couples holiday will inspire you to book a trip ASAP!
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In This Post:
The Best Romantic Weekend Getaways from Sydney
#1 | The Blue Mountains
Driving Time from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes
Where to Stay:
Arguably one of the most beautiful places within driving distance from Sydney is the gorgeous Blue Mountains – the perfect place to head with your main squeeze!
Known for the signature blue haze that is at its best during sunset, the Blue Mountains offers stunning scenery, cute cafes and luxe BnBs along the villages set along the Blue Mountains ridge. It’s only 1.5 hours drive from Sydney but truly feels worlds away.
The best thing about the Blue Mountains is that it offers something for everyone to do on a weekend away from Sydney, during every season.
Summer is perfect for active couples looking to go canyoning or picnic under one of the many waterfalls. The shoulder seasons offer exceptional hiking, as well as cherry blossom viewing in spring, and gorgeous bursts of oranges, reds and yellows in autumn.
In the wintertime, curl up in front of an open fire with your other half and a glass of red wine and a good book. There are so many beautiful and unique places to stay in the Blue Mountains – like this enchanted cave house, an off-the-grid eco-house, or this beautiful architecturally-built studio.
#2 | Jervis Bay
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay:
How about spending your next romantic weekend away, with a trip to the beachside location of Jervis Bay, just south of Sydney. There are about 100 square kilometres in the Bay, more than 10 different beaches, and many small towns to isolate and discover together.
Getting there is easier by car, taking roughly three hours and giving you more flexibility to explore. However, there are options for bus transfers from Sydney, which take about 5 hours but reduce how far you can go.
Enjoy those romantic walks on the white sandy beaches, watch a sunset together, taste some local wines, swim in the clear turquoise water, or discover the natural bushland surroundings. Whatever the activity, you’re both going to enjoy your time away together.
Jervis Bay’s accommodations options are available to suit the budget and style of every couple. Anything from Bed and Breakfasts, cute little cottages, seaside houses, or waterfront resorts. Look out for special deals and surprise your special someone with this fantastic trip away. You won’t regret it!
Recommended by Chris from Aquarius Traveller
Read Next: 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List
#3 | Kangaroo Valley
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 2.5 hours
Where to Stay:
The beautiful Kangaroo Valley is a bucket list place to visit in Australia and the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway from Sydney.
Lying 150 kilometres south of Sydney via the Princess Highway, the valley’s lush green countryside fringed by the towering walls of the Illawarra Escarpment is a nature’s playground dotted with tall waterfalls and panoramic lookouts.
The Valley is home to a number of romantic accommodation options. You could opt for a quaint cottage, an adorable tiny home, an eco-hut, rustic glamping, or even a converted bus!
When you are ready to start exploring, there are plenty of things to do in Kangaroo Valley. For invigorating nature adventures, hit the Three Views walking track, go kayaking on the Kangaroo River with Kangaroo Valley safari or zip-line through the rainforest canopy at Illawarra Fly.
For more low-key exploration, check out the 170-meter-tall Belmore Falls, the panoramic views at Cambewarra Mountain Lookout or take a stroll around the charming Kangaroo Valley village.
For wine connoisseurs, there are half a dozen wineries within easy reach of the valley. The adorable family-run Yarrawarra Estate is tucked away on the lakeshore, a 20-minute drive from the village. The charming and homely atmosphere of Yarrawarra Estate makes you feel like you are visiting your family or friend’s home on a beautiful farm.
Recommended by Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries
Read Next: Flying in Australia during COVID: Everything You Need to Know!
#4 | Mollymook
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay:
A gorgeous beachside town in the Shoalhaven region, south of Sydney, Mollymook is a romantics paradise and one of the best weekend trips from Sydney.
Known for its exceptionally great accommodation options (hello Bannisters), foodie hotspots, cellar doors and outdoor activities, it’s the perfect romantic getaway for every type of couple.
Foodies and wine lovers will want to check out Milk Haus, Small Town Provisions, and the cellar door and restaurant at Cupitt’s Estate. Plus you can’t miss a dining experience at the award-winning Rick Stein at Bannisters.
Outdoor enthusiasts can tee off at the Mollymook Beachside Golf Course, or tackle the 3-hour long Pidgeon House Mountain Didthul walking track, ending the uphill trek with rewarding views over the Shoalhaven from the summit.
If Bannisters by the Sea is a little out of your price range, check out this gorgeous affordable beach house, or this rooftop apartment with a spa overlooking the beach.
#5 | Palm Beach
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 1 hour
Where to Stay:
If you’re looking to escape the city but not go too far, Palm Beach lies just under an hour’s drive north, which makes it the perfect place for a short getaway from Sydney.
With a unique location on a peninsula, you’ll get to enjoy both the open ocean and surf beaches, as well as the calm bay and the Pittwater Lagoon.
Palm Beach is one of the best beaches on Australia’s east coast with plenty of outdoor activities. If you and your significant other enjoy the great outdoors this little town is for you.
Once you’ve had enough of lazy days by the beach you should absolutely go on a hike to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. It only takes around 30 minutes to walk to the lighthouse and the views more than make it worth the trek. You’ll be able to see the entire bay and the beautiful Palm Beach below which is a breathtaking sight. After a little picnic by the lighthouse, you can head back down to have a romantic dinner in town at one of the many quaint restaurants.
In terms of accommodation at Palm Beach, Airbnb is the way to go. They have so many different options – choose from a beachside cabin, a luxe ocean view penthouse, a rustic boatshed, or perhaps a mid-century beach bungalow. You’ll get sure to find something that suits your taste and budget on this list.
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
#6 | Central Coast
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 1.5 hours
Where to Stay:
The NSW Central Coast is a fabulous place for a weekend escape from Sydney. With stunning waterways, dozens of pristine beaches and no less than three National Parks on its doorstep its natural beauty takes many by surprise.
At less than 90km or so from Sydney CBD to the southern tip of the region, your weekend break will not be spent driving, yet the environment here makes you feel like you have gone much further. Even if you don’t have a car, you can easily reach Woy Woy by train and base yourself in one at Ettalong, Pearl Beach or Patonga. All of these are serviced by buses from the train station.
One of the popular things to do is tackle one of the many Central Coast Walks, which allows you to enjoy the views and work up an appetite for the exciting food scene the region offers.
Try to include some time to visit Bouddi National Park, the waterfront restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf in Woy Woy and the Distillery Botanica, at nearby Erina, a beautiful venue on 3 acres of lush gardens. There are literally dozens of Insta-worthy cafes to hit up for breakfast and lunch so you will likely need to do quite a few walks to go home without some extra kgs!
Finding a romantic hideaway is not difficult on the Central Coast – whether you prefer a luxury villa set on acreage, a quaint tiny home, a vintage surf van, or an architecturally designed beach house, you won’t be disappointed.
Recommended by Paula from the Sydney Expert
#7 | Berowra Waters
Driving Time from Sydney: 50 minutes
Where to Stay:
Tucked away in a hidden section of the Hawkesbury is a tiny hidden oasis with waterfront accommodation, Berowra Waters is one of those weekend getaways Sydney locals or visitors may not know about. The tiny creekside village is surrounded by hills and bushland and is only accessible by boat. It’s a perfect short getaway from Sydney, as it only takes 50 minutes to get there.
The iconic Berowra Waters Inn is a beautiful waterfront restaurant serving Modern Australian cuisine and can only be accessed by private ferry or seaplane, making it the perfect place to dine during your very secluded weekend escape from Sydney.
There’s not a lot of things to do in Berowra Waters – but that’s part of the charm. There are a number of great walking trails surrounding Berowra Creek, or perhaps a spot of canoeing or kayaking might be the go. The Berowra Food, Wine and Arts Market is held on the 2nd Sunday of every month between 9 am and 2 pm.
Most accommodation along the Hawkesbury River is only accessible by boat, making it all the more secluded. Check out this modern river house or this waterfront retreat. Or why not actually stay on a boat!
#8 | Berry
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 2 hours
Where to Stay:
For those looking for a foodie trip, then Berry is the perfect place for your romantic weekend getaway from Sydney. This historic little town is an easy two-hour drive from Sydney and for road trip lovers, there’s some beautiful scenery to be seen on the journey which will take you either via the Southern Highlands or the Grand Pacific Drive.
There are so many things to do in Berry that will suit every couple’s taste including hikes, wine tasting, history and lots and lots of eating. For active couples who want a romantic and expansive view of the beautiful Shoalhaven region, the moderately challenging hike to the Drawing Room Rocks is unmissable.
For couples who’d prefer to take it easy, a long and leisurely brunch at one of Berry’s many picture-perfect cafes is the way to go.
To really up the romance stakes, a picnic in Apex park on a summer afternoon would definitely impress and there are also plenty of local wineries to explore nearby. Coolangatta Estate is a particular favourite and also offers accommodation to those wanting an evening of views of the lush vineyards.
For a more unique stay why not check out this beautifully renovated barn, go glamping or stay in a converted grain silo.
Recommended by Emma from Emma Jane Explores
#9 | Wolgan Valley
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 2.5 hours
Where to Stay:
Nestled in a remote valley on the Northern side of the Blue Mountains is the ultra-luxe One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort – the quintessential Sydney weekend getaway spot for couples with cash to splash.
The One&Only Wolgan Valley resort is one of the most exclusive places to stay in Australia and should be on everyone’s Australia Bucket List.
Surrounded by towering cliffs that block most mobile phone signals, the resort is absolutely stunning and completely secluded. Some of the things to do around the Wolgan Valley include horse-riding, birdwatching, gin tasting, mountain biking, stargazing or simply relaxing at the spa.
There may be a hefty price tag that comes with staying at the One&Only Wolgan Valley, but one thing is for sure – after a weekend here, you’ll feel completely rejuvenated. If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, try this cute tiny house or this gorgeous country cottage.
#10 | Mudgee
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3.5 hours
Where to Stay:
For an amazing weekend away from Sydney, head to Mudgee for a few days of wine and relaxation.
About a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney, Mudgee is home to over 35 wineries, making it an ideal spot for amazing food, local produce and cheeses, and wines.
The spectacular rolling hills of Mudgee are home to plenty of boutique hotels and Airbnbs, where you can step off your porch each morning to see kangaroos and wallabies bounding through long rows of vineyards. We love The Gate House by Yeates Wines, Mudgee Silos at Melrose Park, or The Black Shed. Staying just outside the town gives you more privacy, incredible sunsets, and an immersive nature experience.
Try booking a private wine tour, so you can sample the best in the region without having to drive. Some of the best include The Cellar by Gilbert, Lowe Wines, and Logan Wines. High Valley Cheese Co is also worth a stop, so you can pick up nibbles for later in your room.
Come home after a day of wine touring or sightseeing and cuddle up by the fire, a beautiful way to spend quality time together.
Recommended by Katie from The Terrible Cook
#11 | Hunter Valley Wine Region
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay:
As Australia’s most historic wine region, the Hunter Valley makes a great option for a romantic getaway from Sydney for couples. Whether you are looking for an activity-filled weekend or a relaxing luxury retreat.
The highlight of a trip to the Hunter Valley will likely be a visit to one of around 150 wineries in the region. You can stroll through the vineyards, have a look behind the scenes at the wine-making process, or take part in a tasting or food pairing to discover your favourite varieties.
Many wineries in this region specialize in Semillon or Shiraz, and most offer cellar door tastings and tours. It’s easy to drive between wineries, or alternatively, you can hire bicycles to get around.
Accommodation in the area ranges from resort style hotels and luxury retreats to more rustic cottage rentals, or a cabin amongst the vines – perfect for a romantic evening.
For a particularly memorable experience, consider a hot air balloon flight or helicopter ride for panoramic views. Another popular option for couples is a round of golf or a visit to the spa, or perhaps a couples massage.
Recommended by Claire from Claire Pins Travel
#12 | Canberra
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3.5 hours
Where to Stay:
Canberra has somewhat of a reputation as a boring city full of politicians and bureaucrats. But there’s so much more than meets the eye.
Canberra is one of the very few examples of ‘planned cities’ in the world, featuring beautifully constructed parks and buildings. There are many romantic corners of the city for you to explore with your loved one. And being only three hours drive away, it’s a great option for a short getaway from Sydney.
Being such a transient city, Canberra has some (surprisingly) good hotels and Airbnbs, perfect for a romantic escape. We love QT Canberra or Hotel Realm in the city centre, or this boutique luxe warehouse apartment.
If you’ve never been to Canberra before, there are a few must-dos. Such as visiting the Australian Parliament House, the National Museum, and the Australian War Memorial.
However, if you‘re in search of some romantic things to do in Canberra, opt for the 5 km Bridge-to-Bridge Walk around Lake Burley Griffin at sunset, or climb up to Mount Ainslie lookout, the spot where architect Burley Griffin came up with the Canberra city plan. The entire city and the lake will be laid out in front of you – a truly special place!
Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet
#13 | Seal Rocks
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 3 hours
Where to Stay:
Located around three hours north of Sydney, Seal Rocks is one of the best romantic weekend escapes from Sydney. With its pristine white sand beaches, Seal Rocks is a dream destination for couples looking to spend time relaxing on isolated beaches. The beaches found here are some of the best in New South Wales!
The Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is a must-see in Seal Rocks. This picturesque spot offers panoramic views of the shoreline and is a popular area to spot whales and dolphins. Enjoy a romantic picnic along the grassy lawn located elevated above the local Boat Beach. Here, couples can enjoy an idyllic lunch as they watch the crystal-clear water brush up against the shore.
For those looking to swim, head over to the gorgeous Number One Beach. Stretching for 1.3 km, swimmers should head to the southern end of the beach to enjoy a relaxing and romantic time in the water.
A scenic hike in Seal Rocks is the Neranie Headland track offering fantastic views of Myall Lakes. Highlights of this walk include angelic butterflies fluttering around, a historic 19th-century cemetery, and the natural Myall Lakes.
In the evening, lovers can retreat to a cute beach shack, a luxurious beach house, or something a little more unique.
Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips
#14 | Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 50 minutes
Where to Stay:
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a wonderful place for Sydney couples who are looking to take a sneaky weekend away, or extend their Sydney itinerary and explore some of the beautiful northern suburbs. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a stones-throw away from the CBD and offers some amazing quiet, secluded beaches and fantastic hiking trails.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is also home to one of the largest known concentrations of recorded Aboriginal sites in all of Australia. The Basin Aboriginal art site is one of the best examples of Aboriginal rock engravings in the park. It’s best to go either early morning or late afternoon to see the engravings (this is because the shadows will make it easier to see).
Another great reason to visit Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is to see Barrenjoey Lighthouse. It was built in 1881 and is an iconic Sydney attraction. There are trails that will take you to the lighthouse or you can also see it from the impressive views of the West Head lookout. This lookout also offers fantastic views of Broken Bay and Pittwater.
To get there from the CBD, you could either drive or take the L90 bus from Wynyard Station all the way to Palm Beach and then hop on the ferry to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The ferry is a private business, so the Opal card will not work. The cost is $17 for a round trip.
There are some amazing Airbnb stays in Ku-ring-gai Chase – check out this cute little shack at Great Mackerel Beach, or this secluded waterfront getaway, or perhaps stay on a luxury private yacht.
Recommended by Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel
#15 | Orange
Driving Time from Sydney: Approximately 4 hours
Where to Stay:
New South Wales has some great wine areas within driving distance of Sydney. Orange is located in Central West NSW, surrounded by wineries, making it a perfect weekend trip for couples coming from Sydney to visit some great cellar doors.
Due to its slight elevation, Orange is especially known for its cold climate white wines. If you are a lover of crisp, European-inspired dry wines, then you’ll certainly find yourself at home in Orange.
In Orange, the wineries make wine tasting a bit of a ritual. Rather than standing at the counter randomly tasting wines, you get to sit down and go through the selection. In some places, you can also indulge in a long lazy lunch.
The other major attraction of Orange is its excellent local produce and the plethora of restaurants competing for the title of “best in Central West”. While many Australian country towns struggle on the restaurant front, Orange is well ahead of the game and offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in a romantic dinner.
Whether you are looking for a generous breakfast, an Asian fusion experience or a totally new food indulgence, Orange is the place to be and you’ll be forgiven for wanting to extend your weekend away from Sydney just a little longer.
For a romantic place to stay in Orange, we love Mayfield Vineyard, this rustic glamping cabin, or this cute cottage if you want to be closer to town.
Recommended by Delphine from LesterLost
Read Next: The Ultimate World Travel Bucket List – 150+ Places to See Before You Die
Ready to Book Your Sydney Weekend Getaway?
For the ultimate ‘private’ experience during your romantic getaway from Sydney we highly recommend Airbnb. We’ve taken the time to pick out the best Airbnbs for couples in each destination in this article. Hopefully this will make finding the perfect place to stay for you and your special other a bit easier. Please consider clicking through these links to book your stay and help support our business so we can continue to produce great articles like this one.
Looking to explore further afield? Check out our list of Australia’s top 50+ famous Landmarks to Add to Your Bucket List or our Ultimate World Travel Bucket list!
Are you based elsewhere in Australia? Be sure to check out our other Couples Getaway Guides from other Australian destinations such as Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth & Tasmania.
We hope this article has helped you to plan your next romantic weekend getaway from Sydney. If you know of any other places you think should be on this list, please let us know in the comments below.
Planning to explore more of Australia? Read on for inspiration:
- The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
- 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia
- 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
- 15 Weekend Getaways from Sydney
- 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria
- 8 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Perth for Couples
- 15 Best Weekend Trips from Brisbane
- 9 Places for a Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tasmania
- Ultimate 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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