Five family-friendly getaways 2 hours from Sydney

Looking for some short getaways these school holidays?

Get ready to ditch the city grind these holidays – we’ve curated five family-friendly getaways under two hours from Sydney. Dive into the Central Coast’s chill vibes or conquer the Blue Mountains’ rugged trails. Surf’s up in Wollongong, or take a coastal stroll in Kiama—don’t forget those Insta-worthy cliffs. History buffs will love Newcastle’s heritage spots and ocean walks.

Whether you crave beachside bliss or bushland adventures, these family-friendly escapes deliver. Pack the car, grab the kids, and swap skyscrapers for stunning landscapes. It’s time to recharge and reconnect—your ultimate family adventure awaits just a short drive from Sydney!

Blue Mountains | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE

Named for the beautiful haze that hangs over the sleepy villages, ancient rock formations and bushland, the magnificent Blue Mountains is one of Sydney’s fave day-trip and weekend destinations for good reason. From hikes in the fresh mountain air, hidden waterfalls and stunning valley views, to  towns filled with cute boutiques and gourmet cafes, it feels like there’s a surprise at every turn waiting for you and the family.

🌟Family-friendly things to do

• Take a sunset selfie at Three Sisters
• Ride the Skyway into the clouds at Scenic World
• Explore Jenolan Caves’ limestone labyrinth
• Get away from it all and embrace the wilderness at Turon Gates Mountain Eco-Retreat
• Learn about Indigenous culture on a walkabout tour

Central Coast | 1 HOURS’ DRIVE

Sydney’s fave family-friendly destination the Central Coast is just a stone’s throw from the bustle of Sydney, but often feels like a million miles from the cares of the world…From relaxed beachside ‘burbs and national parks, calm waterways perfect for kayak adventures or fishing days, there’s something for the whole family on the coast with the most.

🌟Family-friendly things to do

• Take in the eight kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk
• Zip-line through the Ourimbah State Forest at Treetops Adventure
• Immerse yourself in First Nations knowledge and culture with a Girri Girra walking tour
• Love getting up and close to four-legged friends? Why not have breakfast with alpacas
• Whale watch and explore coastal rainforest at Wyrrabalong National Park
• Catch a flick at the colourful Avoca Beach Theatre

Kiama, Jamberoo & More | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE

Did you know that Kiama’s blowhole is the largest in the world? In fact, its spray plumes are on record for reaching heights of over 30 metres! Here at Inner West Mums, we remember many a trip to the Kiama Blowhole over the school holidays – not to mention picnicking in the nearby park or grabbing an ice-cream from one of the many ice creameries in town. But if the kids want a bit more excitement, there’s loads around Kiama to keep them occupied for a day, or even a weekend.

🌟Family-friendly things to do

• Get your Tarzan on and try the after-dark zipline at Illawarra Fly
• Enjoy breakfast with a beach view at Penny Whistlers
• Have a surf lesson with Surf Camp Australia
• Hike through Minnamurra Rainforest 

Newcastle | 2 HOURS’ DRIVE

If it’s been a while since you’ve headed north to the ‘steel city’, Newcastle’s golden beaches, hip foodie scene and cool culture are calling. Teens will love the city’s edgy boutiques and shops, whilst little ones will adore the outdoor fun, museums and parks. Fancy some vineyard fun? The Hunter Valley is less than an hour away – perfect for a couple’s weekend getaway perhaps?

🌟Family-friendly things to do

• Spend a day exploring the Newcastle Museum housed in the historic Honeysuckle Railway Workshops
• Hop between cafes, museums and more at the waterfront Honeysuckle precinct which includes foreshore walk, park and more
• Take a stroll along the 6km long Bathers Way which links Newcastle’s beaches from Merewether Ocean Baths to Nobbys Beach
• Feast on fresh seafood at hip Merewether Surf House
• Too cold for a dip? You can still enjoy a stroll around the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths 

Wollongong | 1.5 HOURS’ DRIVE

Rainforest-covered escarpment on one side, stunning golden beaches on the other, NSW’s third-largest city – Wollongong – is a fun urban centre filled with family-friendly offers diverse appeal. Just getting to Wollongong from Sydney is a tourist attraction in itself (so you can tell the kids to stop asking ‘are we there yet?’). Instead of taking the M1 Princes Highway, take the Grand Pacific Drive, a spectacular touring route that winds it way through the Royal National Park to Stanwell Park and south over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Got teens? Be sure to stop and take some ‘gram worthy pics along the way.

🌟 Family-friendly things to do

• Spot fairywrens, herons and more at Puckey’s Estate Nature Reserve
• Got kids who love art? Spend an afternoon at Wollongong Art Gallery – be sure to check their school holiday programs too
• Explore the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Buddhist Temple, Nan Tien
• Take a guided tour of the historic Blue Mile – a 2.5 hour walking tour that takes in historical sites including Wollongong Harbour, the Forts (Flagstaff Hill and Smiths Hill), and Northbeach
• Looking for a pit-stop on the way home? Head to Tradies Helensburgh for bistro style meals along with two children’s play areas – outdoor and indoor – so they kids can have fun whatever the weather

Looking for more ideas to keep the kids entertained? Check out our Winter School Holidays Activity Guide.