Vineyard lunches, golden beaches: She drove Australia’s east coast and savoured every unexpected turn

It is often in the most unexpected places that one discovers a slice of paradise. For Ms Charmaine Chan, it was near the Australian coastal town of Ulladulla, one of many memorable stops on a three-week winter drive with her husband in 2022, which took them through New South Wales (NSW) and up to Queensland.

“It was really special because it gave us the time to explore the little towns in NSW most people never get to visit,” she recalls of the trip that took them across Eden, Nambucca Heads, Kiama, Batemans Bay and South West Rocks. 

“Each of them had its own distinct character and charm that made every single one captivating: the pristine beauty of Eden; the amazing seafood in Batemans Bay; the sandy estuary and rock wall of Nambucca Heads, and the blowhole at Kiama that was in full force because it was storming when we got there.”

It was a visit to Cupitt’s Estate, a winery near the little coastal town of Ulladulla, where they felt the full beauty of Australia’s vast nature.

“It was a slice of paradise in the middle of nowhere,” says the writer. “The food and wine were superb but it was the setting that enchanted me – dining on expansive lawns under blue skies, with vineyards rolling out before me as far as the eye could see. It was really magical.”

By the time they reached Queensland, the mood of the trip shifted once again. Ms Chan says she was struck by the vibrant, sunlit energy of the Gold Coast, especially after travelling through the cooler southern regions.

“This was my first time in Queensland, and the cosmopolitan vibe of the city really struck me,” she says. “I also appreciated the sunshine and warmth, coming from the cold down south.”

Her experience captures the enduring appeal of Australia’s east coast, where travellers can choose to take their time on a scenic road trip or simply fly from Sydney to the Gold Coast for a quick escape. The rewards are plentiful either way.

New South Wales

One of the joys of travelling through NSW is the variety. Visitors can go from bustling seafood markets and intimate restaurants in Sydney to misty mountain lookouts and boho-luxe beach stays, all within the same trip.

The Blue Mountains: Nature, nostalgia and sweet treats

The Blue Mountains is a favoured rest and relaxation spot, and it is easy to see why. Less than two hours away by car from Sydney, it offers a great change of pace from the city. Make a day of it by catching sunrise at Lincoln Rock, and watching the colours of the valley change before setting off on the Wentworth Falls track, with its descending paths and gentle cascades.

For a well-earned lunch, stop in the picturesque town of Leura and choose from its many charming cafes. Keep some room for dessert because Josophan’s Fine Chocolates will not disappoint with its selection of handcrafted bonbons, salted caramel honeycomb slabs, ice cream and brownies.

History buffs should hop on the Zig Zag Railway, which runs largely through the western edge of the Blue Mountains. This heritage steam train recently reopened after years of careful restoration and offers a unique 90-minute experience that takes passengers through sandstone viaducts and mountain bushland from Clarence to Bottom Points.

Sydney and beyond: Seafood feasts and coastal beauty

Back in Sydney, there is nothing more enriching than spending time browsing through the city’s best markets. The brand-new Sydney Fish Market, the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere, opened in January this year and delights seafood lovers with its freshness and range. Shop to cook, or just sit down and feast – there is everything from gleaming sashimi and plump prawns to shucked oysters, creamy chowders and, of course, the classic fish and chips.

It is often said that Australia has some of the best Greek food outside of Greece and a visit to Jimmy’s Kitchen at The Rocks in Sydney might prove this point.

Helmed by Chef Marko Taxidis, this intimate 22-seat restaurant brings the soul of a Greek hillside taverna to the city’s historic waterfront. Get ready to be wowed by the signature Astakos Kritharaki, a delicate orzo pasta with lobster; the slow-braised Lamb Kleftiko; as well as the Halloumi Saganaki and the Moussaka Croquettes.

North of Sydney lies the jewel of the NSW coast, Byron Bay. This little town stands out for its exceptional beauty and boho-luxe vibes, so a stay at Elements of Byron resort might be the perfect way to experience the place. It is all about relaxed privacy and delightful indulgence here.

Book a botanical hair massage at the spa, snag a swing bed over the infinity pool or enjoy sunset drinks on Belongil beach from a vintage campervan. The hardest thing about this place? That you will eventually have to check out.

Queensland

Queensland’s appeal lies in how effortlessly it blends natural beauty with a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. From world-famous reefs and rainforest adventures to beachside dining and stylish urban stays, visitors can slow down and soak up the sunshine.

A journey through Cairns: Visit Queensland’s natural wonders

The sunny climate is one of Queensland’s biggest draws, enabling visitors to enjoy its many natural wonders all year round. Dominating this realm is, of course, the UNESCO jewel that is the Great Barrier Reef. The world’s largest coral reef stretches for 2,300km along the Queensland coast and is so vast that it is visible from space.

Explore the kaleidoscopic coral gardens and vibrant marine life of the reef by snorkelling, diving or sailing over it in a glass-bottomed boat. The marvels of this underwater world will stay with you long after you leave, inspiring a deeper appreciation of the oceans on our planet.

Continue your tropical adventure at the Daintree Rainforest. Worth visiting simply because it is one of the oldest rainforests on earth, Daintree Rainforest is best explored with a guided tour like the Mossman Gorge River Adventure Day, blending the physical with the cultural and the educational in the best way possible. 

You start off with the traditional Kuku Yalanji welcome ceremony, before setting off on a guided walk to discover native flora and wildlife like turtles, platypus and water dragons. Then, drift along the gentle currents of the Mossman River on a river sled, as you gaze up at the ancient canopy of the Daintree.

From the Gold Coast to Brisbane: Where beach culture meets city energy

The same leisurely pace continues further north, where a day in Burleigh Heads is a day well spent. Start off with a morning swim at the beach, where waters are calm due to the protective headland. Then head for brunch at Paddock Bakery: Order a bacon and egg roll or bagel with cream cheese, and enjoy a sweet finish with its strawberry watermelon cake.

Spend the afternoon browsing through its coastal boutiques and bohemian markets, then head to Burleigh Hill for sunset views over the ocean. It is also the perfect spot for people-watching as everyone gathers for a picnic, a run or simply to unwind at the end of the day.

For night owls, your evening at Burleigh Heads has just begun. Those who are familiar with Rick Shores, the iconic beachfront restaurant famous for its modern Asian food, can enjoy a sunset drink and one of its beloved Moreton Bay bug rolls (similar to lobster rolls).

Or you might want to check out the new kid on the shore – Bar Ricci at Main Beach. This Italian restaurant dishes up handmade pasta, preserved mussels, tuna crudo, charcoal-grilled steak and a beautifully layered tiramisu, along with an extensive wine list and classic aperitivo cocktails.

Further up north, Brisbane’s The Calile Hotel makes the unique offer of an urban boutique stay with a relaxed beachfront resort vibe. Located on the fashionable James Street, the hotel provides easy access to exciting dining and shopping – think ultra-chic local brands like Camargue and Double Double. But the hotel itself, with its sun-drenched airiness, palm trees, pastels and crystalline pool, radiates a Riviera glamour so alluring it might just persuade you to curl up in a cabana with cocktails all day.

Plan your Australian itinerary today and make more magical memories. Visit australia.com for great deals and travel ideas.

In partnership with Tourism Australia