Last Minute Getaways in NSW that you are going to love
The Appeal of Last Minute Getaways
Sure, we all love the excitement of planning a holiday but sometimes the best trips are those spur-of-the-moment escapes. You know the ones; the sun is shining, your schedule is miraculously free and you pack a bag, jump in the car and hit the road.
Yep, it’s hard to beat the freedom, flexibility and fun of spontaneous travel, and with so many amazing destinations to choose from in Australia we are a little spoilt for choice. One thing is certain though, from glamping by a gorgeous beach to an old school bush break, a fun foodie escape or weekend winery visit, there’s a last minute getaway in NSW that’s just right for you.
Need June Long Weekend inspiration? Read on.
Looking for a June long weekend getaway?
Closest to Sydney and Newcastle, Hawks Nest, with it's year-round heated pool, is where its at! With lots to see and do, the kids will love a long weekend on a site or in a cabin at Hawks Nest.
Yep, this little gem has it all - beaches, a short stroll to town for bars and restaurants and so much to do on this epic bit of coastline. Ready to book your cabin, villa or site?
Spoilt for choice is not a buzzword at Reflections Urunga, its a real thing! We still have cabins and sites available for the June long weekend.
Just a stone’s throw from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this coastal gem has beach houses, cabins, villas and sites ready to help you getaway.
Book your spot on the tranquil Brunswick River at Reflections Brunswick Head, whether you choose a campsite or prefer a rood overhead - we got you!
Only 2 hours from Newcastle, your Jimmys Beach cabin is just waiting for you. Might be a bit chilly for the pool, but there is so much more to do on this bit of coast!
Reflections Moonee Beach, Coffs Coast NSW
Looking for a spot by the water, complete that super critical coffee van? Moonee Beach has you covered for sites and cabins for the June long weekend.
You couldn't ask for a more convenient spot to explore the best of the Coffs Coast - whether you are a waterfall wanderer, coffee idler or laid back explorer, we got a site or cabin waiting.
Take a break in the ultimate laid-back village of Bonny Hills, set high on the cliff overlooking the ocean. Cabins, glamping tents and sites still available.
Best Last Minute Getaways in NSW
Cruisy Coastal Escapes
Jimmys Beach:
Dreaming of being lulled to sleep by the sound of waves lapping the shore? How about a sunset stroll on a long sandy deserted beach? Peaceful bushlands meet gorgeous golden sands with great options for camping, glamping and villa stays at Jimmys Beach, a pristine back-to- nature experience in the Great Lakes district.
Jervis Bay:
With stunning white sand beaches lapped by a sparkling blue ocean, dolphin watching cruises and national parks home to kangaroos and other wildlife, Jervis Bay is a justifiably popular bolthole easily reached from Sydney.
Lennox Head:
A haven for surfers and anyone after a chilled out coastal vibe, there’s much to love about laidback Lennox Head. Sprawled along the seafront, the town is cruisy, the beaches are divine, plus there are beautiful national parks nearby and all the fun of Byron Bay just up the road. Check out Reflections Lennox Head NSW for a last minute getaway right on the beach.
Terrigal:
Fancy a beachside getaway with a side of boutique shopping, socialising and gourmet dining? Terrigal, just north of Sydney is just the place, and is small enough that you can stroll from surf to spa in under five minutes.
Peaceful Country and Inland Retreats
Lake Keepit:
Craving a recharge in nature? Lake Keepit is a beautiful spot to set up camp with the kids – there’s plenty of wildlife about, and the lake provides idyllic conditions for boating, kayaking and swimming. Travelling as a couple and can’t be bothered packing a tent? Stylish eco tents with a private lakeside setting are just the spot for a last minute romantic getaway.
Orange:
A go-to for foodies, wine afficionados and nature lovers. Think cellar doors, farm-fresh produce and food trails amidst spectacular scenery in the central highlands of NSW.
Copeton Waters:
The shores of beautiful Lake Copeton set the scene for a relaxing escape filled with bushwalking, kayaking, boating and stargazing. # Tip: You’ll find some great accommodation options at Copeton Waters Holiday and Caravan Park which is also dog friendly, so there’s no need to find a last minute dog sitter.
Mudgee:
Head to Mudgee in the central west of NSW to sip and stroll your way through a weekend getaway of boutique wine tastings, country pubs and farm to fork experiences in picturesque surroundings.
Idyllic South Coast Getaways
Bermagui:
Ok, it might sound like a cliché but the Blue Pool really is a gem, and this sparkling ocean pool is reason enough to make the trip to Bermagui on the Sapphire Coast. Add in fresh oysters, coastal trails and a super-chilled vibe for a last minute weekend getaway in southern NSW you will never forget.
Mollymook:
Calling all foodies. For a relaxed yet refined escape, Mollymook on the south coast, combines fabulous fine dining with top surf beaches, epic coastal scenery and a stunning golf course.
Eden:
Come for the humpback whales and stay for the seafood and epic coastal scenery. Eden combines historic charm with natural wonders, and the Whale Trail is an absolute must if you’re visiting between May and November. Fancy a water view from your campsite or cabin? Eden Holiday and Caravan Park is your spot.
Getaways Near Major Cities (Under 3 Hours’ Drive)
Fun Weekend Escapes from Sydney
Kiama
As well as the famous Blowhole (the largest in the world,) you will find charming cafes and dramatic cliffside paths, plus ancient rainforests and waterfalls in the surrounding hills. For a scenic drive, leave Sydney via Royal National Park and drive over the Sea Cliff Bridge – it’s a trip in itself!
Kangaroo Valley:
Sydneysiders searching for a ‘last minute getaway near me’ are bound to see Kangaroo Valley pop up on their screen. Come for lush green landscapes, quaint villages set amidst rolling hills, and yes plenty of kangaroos (as well as wallabies and if you are lucky, maybe even a wombat.)
Blue Mountains:
Waterfalls, hikes, and misty views await. Fancy a two-day bush walk? The newly opened Grand Cliff Top Walk leads you through stunning mountain scenery with endless panoramas.
Lake Macquarie:
How about golden beaches, quaint waterfront towns and endless opportunities for water sports? Lake Macquarie is close enough to Sydney for an easy weekend getaway but feels worlds away.
Last Minute Getaways Near Newcastle
Seal Rocks:
Rugged and remote, Seal Rocks has a unique kind of magic and some of the most magnificent coastal scenery in NSW. Soak it up from a campsite or cabin, or treat yourselves to a very special last minute getaway and book a villa with sea views at Seal Rocks Holiday and Caravan Park.
Barrington Tops:
Ready for an outdoor adventure? Think world heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, fascinating gold rush heritage and fast flowing rivers.
Port Stephens:
Who doesn’t love dolphins? Known as Australia’s dolphin capital, Port Stephens is a top spot for dolphin cruises (and whale watching in the winter.) You will also find the amazing Stockton Bight Sand Dunes here – the largest in Australia.
Easy Trips From Canberra
Lake Burrinjuck
Fancy a quick fishing trip? How about hiking scenic bush trails? Or maybe a spontaneous camping adventure with the kids? Beautiful Lake Burrinjuck is just a couple of hours from the capital and ticks all the last minute getaway boxes. Treat yourselves to gorgeous views with a lakefront stay at Reflections Lake Burrinjuck.
Batemans Bay
A classic coastal escape easily reached from Canberra, Batemans Bay has calm water conducive to all types of water sports, while the seafood is phenomenal. Make sure to try the famous Clyde River oysters.
Braidwood
An historic gold mining town, Braidwood is easily visited on a day trip from Canberra, but its closeness to the capital also makes it an easy getaway of the last minute persuasion. Stay for the weekend to really appreciate all its charms, including fabulous antique stores, atmospheric cafes, bakeries filled with all kinds of goodies, and pretty countryside.
From the Gold Coast & Brisbane
Leave the urban sprawl of the Gold Coast behind and make a dash across the border. Both Brunswick Heads and Byron Bay are just over an hour away, and are top picks for a rejuvenating weekend of surf, sun and sand on the far north coast of NSW.
Byron Bay
Craving surf, sunshine and laid-back vibes? Byron Bay is the ultimate last-minute coastal escape. Whether it’s sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse, a lazy afternoon on Main Beach, or browsing the boutique shops and markets, this iconic town always delivers. Stay just steps from it all at Reflections Byron Bay and soak up the best of beachside living.
Brunswick Heads
Chilled, charming and effortlessly cool, Brunswick Heads is a North Coast gem perfect for an impromptu getaway. Paddle the calm waters of the Brunswick River, grab fish and chips by the footbridge, or kick back in one of the town’s retro-style cafés. For a relaxed riverside stay, Reflections Brunswick Heads is just the spot.
Top Picks for Last Minute Weekend Getaways
So, its Friday afternoon and you’re ready to hit the highway. If you need to be back for work on Monday it’s best to stick to destinations with easy drives, preferably no more than three hours away, so you can settle in and make the most of your valuable time away. Look for properties and parks that don’t require a long minimum stay – bearing in mind that many hotels will have a two-night minimum on weekends. Flexible booking options are always a bonus, as are places that let you check live availability online.
Quick Planning Tips for a Stress-Free Escape
Book online or call ahead:
Remember too that you will often find the best deals if you travel outside of peak season, and try to avoid last minute getaways on busy long weekends.
Pack light and smart:
You don’t need much for a weekend away so just pack a few changes of clothes, swimmers, thongs, a torch and something warm just in case. If you like camping but can’t be bothered organising your camping gear, definitely consider staying in an onsite glamping tent or simple cabin.
Don’t overthink meals:
Keep things easy and pop a few staples in the esky – including snacks for the drive, obviously! Then look for local takeaways, because Friday night fish and chips by the beach always taste so good!
Be flexible:
Spontaneity and freedom are the name of the game when setting out on a last minute holiday, so stay open minded and go with the flow – you never know what hidden paradise you may discover.
Where to Stay: Top Reflections Parks for Spontaneous Stays
Whether you want to wake up beside the beach, alongside a river or deep in the bush with kookaburras as your soundtrack, Reflections Holidays are always a good choice for spur of the moment escapes.
Why? As well as having beautiful locations, there’s something for every mood and budget, from spacious camp sites and luxe glamping tents to comfy cabins, fun tiny homes and deluxe villas. Plus, many parks are pet-friendly so your doggo can come too, and offer flexible bookings (easily made online,) so you can head off on your adventure without too much fuss. Need further inspiration?
Here’s a few Reflections standouts for your next last-minute getaway in NSW.
- A peaceful back to nature escape in stunning natural surrounds Jimmys Beach Holiday and Caravan Park calls to anyone wanting to exchange the rat race for a weekend of beachside bliss.
- Head west for an inland adventure and to soak up the natural beauty of Reflections Lake Keepit where beautiful bushlands surround a serene lake.
- Base yourselves at Bermagui Holiday and Caravan Park to explore this vibrant town on the south coast and discover dreamy beaches, lovely cafes, stunning ocean pool and coastal walks.
Seize the Day and Say Yes to Spontaneity!
Life’s too short to wait for ‘someday,’ so pack the car and follow the sun. No matter what your ideal last minute getaway NSW looks like…. an action-packed adventure, a cosy weekend in a bush cabin or a lazy seaside escape, just say yes, and head to a spectacular Reflections Holiday Park. Or just enjoy the freedom of the road and discover somewhere entirely new. Happy travels and enjoy the ride.