October Long Weekend in NSW

Road trips 

Make the most of the break and explore Regional NSW on a road trip. From Sydney, you can tackle the Greater Blue Mountains Drive and the Grand Pacific Drive along the South Coast. Follow the Rainforest Way and Waterfall Way in the north of the State, the Kosciuszko Alpine Way from Canberra or the Snowy Valleys Way in the Riverina. 

Read more: The Blond Nomads' guide to camping & road trips in NSW

Scenic bushland drive Green Point at Angourie

Family fun 

The October long weekend falls right in the middle of the school holidays and there are lots of fun things for kids to do in NSW. Ride the waterslides at Jamberoo Action Park, meet the animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, ride horses on the beach in Port Stephens, join Elvis the crocodile for feeding time at the Australian Reptile Park and enjoy spectacular views in the ancient landscape at Scenic World. 

Read more: How to get close to Australia's cuddliest animals in NSW

Crocodiles on the banks of the waterhole at the Australian Reptile Park, Somesby

Outdoor adventures 

Gorgeous spring days mean it’s a great time to be outside. Hike one of the many waterfall and rainforest circuits in the Blue Mountains, climb to the top of Australia’s highest peak, follow the White Sands Walk in Jervis Bay and camp along the three-day Light to Light Walk. If you’re looking for adventure, go abseiling in Barrington Tops, quad biking on Worimi Conservation Lands or mountain biking in The Hunter. 

Quad bike tour on the Stockton Sand Dunes with Sand Dune Adventures, Port Stephens

On the water, you can try sea kayaking in Byron Bay or snorkel with seals off Montague Island. It's a great time to learn to surf, with schools up and down the coast, including at Merewether Beach in Newcastle. October is the tail end of whale watching season as migrating humpbacks make their way back to Antarctica. Jervis Bay is one of the best viewing points. 

Read more: 12 ways to get outdoors & try something new in NSW

Fur seals swimming around Montague Island, Narooma

Find a springtime stay

Sometimes a spring break is all about finding the perfect accommodation. If your idea of idyllic involves collecting fresh eggs for breakfast, feeding playful alpacas and embracing the fun of country living, check into a memorable farm stay. If the sunnier days are calling you ocean (or lakes and rivers), pick a waterfront stay. If you want to go off-the-beaten path, then an off-grid hut, cabin or retreat might be the answer. But be prepared: these stays often have no Wi-Fi or phone service.

Read more: A kids' guide to the best family holidays in NSW

Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park, Port Stephens