The 9 Friendliest Little Towns In New South Wales

Every small town has its own character and something different to offer. But the towns of Australia’s New South Wales particularly live up to that idea. When thinking of New South Wales, Sydney often comes to mind first, with its golden beaches and iconic opera house. Beyond the city, however, are expansive landscapes, local towns, and a slower pace of life shaped by strong community ties.

Just outside Sydney and further across the state, smaller towns offer a chance to step away from busy highways and crowded itineraries. These places are defined less by landmarks and more by everyday interactions, shared spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. For travelers willing to slow down and take a short detour, the following towns highlight the friendlier side of New South Wales.

Bundeena

You do not need to travel far from Sydney to find friendly towns. Such is the case with Bundeena, an often overlooked beachside town about an hour’s drive from the city. Resting on the edge of the Royal National Park, Bundeena feels further removed than its distance suggests. For a more scenic approach, visitors can travel by train to Cronulla and connect to a ferry that crosses Port Hacking.

Jibbon Beach is a popular choice among locals, and its sense of seclusion reflects the laid-back nature of the town. Another draw is the Coast Track, a series of trails that link multiple beaches with lookouts, rainforest, and seasonal wildflowers along the way. Bundeena Kayaks also offers equipment hire for those interested in exploring the nearby waterways beside the Royal National Park.

Bermagui

Another coastal town with a small and welcoming community is Bermagui. Located on the Sapphire Coast, the town is known for its beaches, ocean pools, and coastal walks that encourage a slower pace of travel. With the continental shelf about 20 kilometers offshore, Bermagui is also well-suited to deep-sea fishing and has a sizable harbor that plays a central role in daily life.

One of the best-known local landmarks is the Bermagui Blue Pool. Carved into the rock nearly a century ago, the pool’s water shifts in color from deep blue to turquoise depending on the light. From this spot, visitors can sometimes see whales and other marine life moving along the coast. Away from the ocean, Wallaga Lake offers calm conditions for fishing and boating and holds cultural significance for local Aboriginal communities. The Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf rounds out the area, with a range of seafood outlets supplied directly by the local fishing fleet.

Currarong

A balance between natural beauty and neighborly warmth, Currarong has become a welcoming place to visit through local initiatives organized by the town. It speaks to the community’s friendliness that these efforts are supported by locals and visitors alike, including the Currarong Coastal Cleanup, which helps keep the surrounding environment clean.

The impact of these efforts is visible along the local coastline. Abrahams Bosom Beach is one example, with clear water and access to a nearby reserve. In town, the local Community Center serves as a hub for connection, with yoga sessions and art workshops held regularly. This community focus extends to the Currarong Art Trail, which takes place on the first Saturday of each month. During the event, local artists open their studios, giving visitors a chance to learn about their work and creative process.

Blackheath

If you find yourself in the Blue Mountains, a short drive past Katoomba leads to Blackheath, a small and well-established mountain town. Despite its name, the town is known for its welcoming atmosphere and well-preserved streetscape, including several Art Deco buildings that suit its role as a mountain retreat.

As a mountain village, Blackheath offers a wide range of walking tracks. The Clifftop Track from Govetts Leap follows the cliff edge to several lookouts, while the Grand Canyon Track provides a cooler walk through a shaded canyon with waterfalls, ferns, and historic features. Staying in town offers access to a variety of independent shops and cafés. The Victory Theatre Antique Centre stands out with its colorful Jenny Kee mural and collection of antiques and collectibles. The Blackheath Growers Market, held every second Sunday of the month, draws visitors with locally grown produce, baked goods, flowers, and regional cheeses.

Berry

Located in the Shoalhaven region, Berry is a village known for its historic streets and welcoming atmosphere. Its appeal is immediately evident along the main street, where heritage buildings and established trees frame a busy area shared by locals and visitors throughout the day.

Community events help define the town’s character. The Berry Country Fair, held on the first Sunday of the month, brings together local crafts, food, and regional traditions. The Treat Factory is another well-known stop, offering gourmet products and the chance to observe production on site, along with workshops and tasting sessions. Beyond town, the surrounding countryside includes several wineries. Silos Estate is one example, combining accommodation, wine tasting, and open grounds with views across the vineyard.

Moama

The town of Moama reflects its friendliness through a strong sense of shared culture and community life along the Murray River. That sense of openness is evident in the area’s heritage, which is openly shared with visitors through local activities and events that bring residents together.

There are several family-friendly things to do in town, including mini golf at the Rich River Golf Club, a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Touring experiences along the Murray River offer a relaxed way to take in the surrounding landscape. The Winter Blues Festival, held near the end of July, is another key part of the local calendar. The free, four-day event across Echuca-Moama brings together multiple artists across numerous venues and draws steady local participation.

Kangaroo Valley

Morning mists, open farmland, and dense greenery define the approach to Kangaroo Valley. With a small population living in the forested village, the sense of warmth comes largely from the surrounding environment and the slower pace of life. A visit to Fitzroy Falls offers a national park setting with waterfalls, picnic areas, and the chance to hear lyrebirds in the surrounding bushland.

Canoeing along the Kangaroo River is another option, with experiences such as the Mindful Canoeing Nature Experience suited to the calm conditions. The town’s main street reinforces its country setting, particularly through its tea rooms and heritage-listed pub, The Friendly Inn, which has long served as a central meeting place.

Milton

For a mix of historic character and modern amenities, Milton offers a relaxed setting with a strong sense of continuity. The town’s easygoing pace is reflected in its architecture, much of which dates back to the mid-19th century. Within the town, visitors will find a range of independent shops, galleries, and food options that contribute to its steady appeal.

Food plays a central role in the local experience. Milk Haus is a well-known breakfast spot, serving garden-to-plate meals from a converted 19th-century cheese factory. Artisan breads and pies are available at Flour Water Salt and The Heritage Bakery. Beyond dining, Milton is also known for its antiques and arts. Turnbull Bros Antiques continues to operate as the town’s oldest antique shop, while the historic Milton Theatre hosts concerts and performances throughout the year.

Mudgee

Set in the Cudgegong River Valley, Mudgee is a regional town known for its surrounding countryside and established food and wine scene. The combination of rural landscapes and varied accommodation options makes the trip from Sydney a considered choice for visitors planning a longer stay.

Food and drink are central to the local experience. Places such as The Zin House pair local wines with seasonal dishes, while Alby & Esther’s offers a quieter setting along a historic cobblestone laneway. Arts and culture also play a visible role in town life. The Mudgee Arts Precinct reflects the community’s support for creative work. That sense of originality extends to accommodation, with Bubbletent Australia offering stays in transparent domes overlooking the nearby valley.

Why These Towns Leave a Lasting Impression

While Sydney is well known for its landmarks and coastal setting, the character of New South Wales extends far beyond the capital. Across the state, smaller towns reflect strong community ties shaped by landscape, history, and everyday life. From coastal locations such as Bundeena and Bermagui to inland communities like Mudgee and Kangaroo Valley, these places highlight the variety found outside major cities.

Together, the towns in this list show how local culture, shared spaces, and a slower pace contribute to a welcoming environment. For travelers interested in understanding New South Wales beyond its urban centers, these towns provide a clear picture of regional life across the state.