2026's 10 Most Scenic New South Wales Towns
Along the coast of New South Wales, volcanic headlands and working waterways shape towns like Kiama, where a famous blowhole can send seawater up to 30 m into the air. Inland, Mudgee sits among the vineyards and farming country of the Cudgegong Valley, with 19th-century buildings still forming much of its town center. Bellingen lies beside its namesake river beneath the forested ranges of the North Coast. These ten scenic towns show how quickly the landscape of New South Wales can shift from ocean to vineyard to rainforest, and each one gives you a different reason to plan a trip in 2026.
Kiama
The town's famous Kiama Blowhole commands attention as powerful waves crash through volcanic rock and shoot towering plumes of water into the air. Nearby, the historic Kiama Lighthouse stands watch over the coastline, offering panoramic views where green hills meet the deep blue Pacific Ocean. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Kiama Coastal Walk winds along rugged cliffs and rolling farmland, revealing breathtaking ocean vistas around nearly every corner. Along the way, visitors can stop at Surf Beach or Kendalls Beach, both of which provide inviting stretches of golden sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Yamba
At the point where the Clarence River flows into the Pacific Ocean, Yamba showcases a landscape shaped by water in all its forms. Ocean beaches, river channels, rocky headlands, and tranquil swimming spots create endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
One of the area's most unique attractions is the Angourie Blue and Green Pools, former rock quarries that have transformed into stunning natural swimming holes filled with crystal-clear water. Main Beach provides a classic Australian beach experience, attracting surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers throughout the year. Visitors looking to experience the region from a different perspective can embark on a Clarence River cruise, where dolphins are often spotted gliding alongside the boat. For sweeping views of the coastline, the Yamba Lighthouse Lookout delivers unforgettable panoramas stretching across the ocean and river mouth.
Mudgee
Far from the coast, Mudgee reveals a different side of New South Wales, where vineyard-covered hills and historic architecture create a sophisticated country retreat. Widely known as one of Australia's premier wine regions, Mudgee invites visitors to slow down and indulge in its culinary and cultural treasures.
Award-winning wineries such as First Ridge Wines allow guests to sample locally crafted wines while enjoying sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Back in the Town Centre, elegant sandstone buildings and beautifully preserved heritage streets highlight Mudgee's rich nineteenth-century history. Beyond its urban charm, nature lovers can venture to The Drip Gorge, where a scenic walk leads to impressive sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations. The region's thriving agricultural heritage comes to life through local food markets filled with artisan cheeses, fresh produce, and gourmet specialties.
Bellingen
Nestled beside the Bellinger River and surrounded by lush rainforest, Bellingen feels like a hidden world tucked between mountains and coastline. A short journey from town leads to Dorrigo National Park, where towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and elevated lookout points showcase the incredible beauty of the region's World Heritage-listed rainforest. Back in Bellingen, the calm waters of the Bellinger River provide opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and riverside picnics. Those exploring the famous Waterfall Way scenic drive will encounter some of New South Wales' most spectacular landscapes, with waterfalls, forests, and mountain vistas appearing around almost every bend.
Merimbula
The Sapphire Coast earns its name through the brilliant blues of ocean and estuary waters, and nowhere is that beauty more evident than in Merimbula. This coastal town is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a connection with nature. The calm waters of Merimbula Lake create an ideal setting for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, while the long stretch of Main Beach offers endless opportunities for enjoying the coastal scenery. For some of the region's finest views, visitors can head to Short Point Lookout, where dramatic headlands and expansive ocean vistas often provide opportunities to spot migrating whales. Merimbula is also synonymous with fresh oysters, and local tours offer fascinating insight into the area's renowned oyster industry.
Sawtell
Just south of Coffs Harbour, this relaxed coastal town offers a refreshing pace of life centered around beautiful beaches and community spirit. The town's palm-lined main street creates an inviting first impression. Just moments away, Sawtell Beach offers excellent surf conditions and wide-open ocean views, particularly stunning during sunrise. Nearby Bonville Headland rewards visitors with elevated coastal panoramas, while the Murrays Beach Walk provides a peaceful route through native vegetation and scenic lookout points.
Berry
The historic village center of Berry features beautifully preserved buildings. A short drive away, Seven Mile Beach stretches along the coastline, offering opportunities for swimming, surfing, and long walks beside the ocean. For a broader perspective of the region, Cambewarra Mountain Lookout delivers sweeping views of the scenic surrounding landscape. Local markets add to Berry's appeal by showcasing regional produce, handcrafted goods, and artisanal products.
Nelson Bay
Surrounded by sparkling blue waters and protected coastal landscapes, Nelson Bay serves as the gateway to many of Port Stephens' most celebrated attractions. One of the most memorable ways to experience the area is aboard a dolphin-watching cruise, where playful marine life frequently appears in the clear waters of the bay. The Tomaree Head Summit Walk rewards adventurous visitors with one of the most spectacular viewpoints in New South Wales. Shoal Bay Beach provides a tranquil setting for swimming and relaxation, while the massive Port Stephens sand dunes introduce a completely different landscape where visitors can try sandboarding or join guided tours.
Tenterfield
Located in the New England region, Tenterfield offers a striking contrast to the state's coastal destinations. The town's most famous natural attraction is Bald Rock National Park, home to Australia's largest exposed granite monolith. Visitors who make the climb are rewarded with extraordinary views across the surrounding wilderness. History enthusiasts can explore the Tenterfield Railway Museum before wandering through the town's main street, where nineteenth-century buildings preserve the character of a bygone era. Just over the Queensland border, Girraween National Park adds even more natural beauty through its dramatic rock formations and seasonal wildflower displays.
Forster
Water defines life in Forster. Forster Main Beach remains a favorite gathering place thanks to its clean sand, rolling surf, and picturesque ocean backdrop. The Bicentennial Walk follows the coastline past rocky headlands and scenic viewpoints, where dolphins are often spotted playing in the waves below. Inland, Wallis Lake provides endless opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. For one final perspective on the area's beauty, visitors can climb the viewing tower at Cape Hawke Lookout, where breathtaking vistas stretch across forests, waterways, and the Pacific coastline.
Beauty Beyond The Major Cities
The true essence of New South Wales is often found in the places that receive far less attention than Sydney's famous harbor. From the crashing waves of Kiama and Yamba to the vineyard-covered hills of Mudgee and the rainforest landscapes surrounding Bellingen, each of these towns reveals a unique side of the state's diverse character. Coastal adventures, historic streets, culinary experiences, and spectacular natural scenery come together to create destinations that reward curiosity and encourage exploration. For travelers willing to venture beyond the major cities, these ten scenic towns offer some of Australia's most memorable journeys and prove that the state's greatest treasures are often hidden in plain sight.
