Your guide to the ultimate NSW summer getaway

Summer in New South Wales brings long days, warm water and an easy rhythm built around the outdoors. December and January are peak holiday months, and being close to beaches, rivers, walking trails, and regional food scenes across the state is a must!

Across coastal regions and Country NSW, each destination offers a distinct way to spend summer: beach swims and headland walks, calm waterways for paddling, nearby waterfalls to cool off, and inland lakes for boating and fishing. Read n for some must-do summer getaways.

Mid North Coast: walking trails and beach life

The Mid North Coast is a classic NSW summer destination, known for long beaches, scenic headlands and a strong connection to nature. Walking trails weave through coastal bushland and along rivers, while patrolled beaches and calm swimming spots suit long, unhurried summer days.

Where to stay on the Mid North Coast?

• Reflections North Haven – Positioned between river and beach, with easy access to coastal walks and waterways.
• Reflections Bonny Hills – A relaxed base near uncrowded beaches and local coastal tracks.
• Reflections Seal Rocks – Close to national park trails, iconic beaches and peaceful headlands.

Summer highlights

• Coastal and headland walks with ocean views
• Long beach days and early morning swims
• Forest and lakeside trails offering shade during warmer days

Coffs Coast: waterfalls, walking trails, kayaking and paddling

The Coffs Coast blends beach culture with lush hinterland landscapes. Calm creeks, lagoons and rivers create ideal conditions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, while nearby rainforest areas offer walking tracks and waterfalls that provide welcome relief from the summer heat.

Where to stay on the Coffs Coast?

• Reflections Coffs Harbour – Centrally located near beaches and Coffs Creek, with walking paths and water access close by.
• Reflections Urunga – Set beside the lagoon and boardwalk, ideal for paddling, cycling and easy coastal walks.
• Reflections Red Rock – Positioned between river and ocean, offering a quieter coastal experience with strong nature appeal.

Summer highlights

• Kayaking and SUP on calm waterways at Urunga and Coffs Creek
• Boardwalks and coastal walking trails
• Hinterland day trips to waterfalls and shaded swimming spots

Far North Coast: waterfalls and beaches

The Far North Coast pairs warm ocean temperatures with lush hinterland scenery. Beaches stretch along the coastline, while rainforest pockets inland deliver waterfalls, walking tracks and swimming holes. Summer days often move at a slower pace here, shaped by early swims, coastal walks and time outdoors.

Where to stay on the NSW Far North Coast

• Reflections Byron Bay – Close to beaches, coastal paths and the energy of Byron during summer.
• Reflections Lennox Head – Near surf beaches and clifftop walking tracks, with a relaxed village feel.
• Reflections Evans Head – Positioned between river and ocean, offering beach access and easy hinterland exploration.

Summer highlights

• Beach swims and coastal walks
• Waterfall walks and rainforest tracks inland
• River paddling and relaxed seaside afternoons

Country NSW: biking trails, fishing and boating

Country NSW offers a different kind of summer escape, centred on open landscapes, freshwater lakes and river systems. Days often revolve around boating, fishing and cycling, followed by quiet evenings under clear skies. It’s a slower pace, shaped by nature and wide-open space.

Where to stay in Country NSW

• Reflections Lake Glenbawn – A popular summer destination for boating, fishing and lakeside relaxation.
• Reflections Lake Keepit – Well known for water sports, swimming and family-friendly lake activities.
• Reflections Tumut River – Set along the river, with fishing spots and walking tracks nearby.
• Reflections Wee Jasper – A more secluded option, ideal for nature-based stays and scenic countryside walks.

Summer highlights

• Boating and kayaking on lakes and rivers
• Fishing from shore or small craft
• Cycling and riverside walks through country landscapes

South Coast: foodie trails and oysters

The South Coast combines coastal scenery with one of NSW’s strongest regional food scenes. Estuaries and inlets are home to oyster farms, while nearby towns and villages offer seafood restaurants, markets and cellar doors. Summer days often revolve around coastal walks, beach swims and long lunches.

Suggested Reflections Holiday Parks

• Reflections Bermagui – Close to beaches, waterfront dining and oyster-producing estuaries.
• Reflections Eden – Set within the Sapphire Coast, near seafood experiences and coastal trails.

Summer highlights

• Oyster tastings and local seafood experiences
• Coastal walking tracks and lookout points
• Beach swims followed by relaxed seaside dining

Planning a summer stay at Reflections Holidays

December and January are among the busiest travel months in NSW, and planning ahead makes all the difference. Popular parks and accommodation types book out early, particularly along the coast.

• Book accommodation well in advance for peak summer dates
• Plan a mix of water-based activities and walking trails to balance warmer days
• Pack sun protection, water gear and layers for evenings

Summer, spent well

Across NSW, Reflections Holidays' parks place summer experiences within easy reach of the best beaches, rivers, walking trails, waterfalls and regional food scenes. December and January bring the energy of peak season, balanced by the space, nature and simplicity that define a great summer holiday.

Explore Reflections Holidays parks and start planning a NSW summer escape built around the experiences that matter most.