Looking for NSW’s best kept secrets? We’ve got you covered with 10 Instagram-worthy selfie spots you’ll want to pop on your summer bucket list.
1. The Figure 8 Pools, Lilyvale
Located on a rock shelf in Sydney’s Royal National Park, these stunning natural rock pools in the shape of perfect figure 8s are hugely popular with those who visit via the walking track from Burning Palms Beach. There’s just one thing to consider: the tides! For great photos, be sure to time your visit to low tide. More info here.
2. Bald Hill, Stanwell Tops
Head to NSW’s sparkling Illawarra region and the tiny beach town of Stanwell Park at the southern end of the Royal National Park. Bald Hill is a famous spot to watch hang gliders and paragliders soaring above the cliffs and the ocean – and to snap a few panoramic photos for your socials at the same time! More info here.
3. Belmore Falls, Robertson
There are so many natural wonders in NSW’s Southern Highlands but for great photos, you can’t go past this beautiful waterfall. It’s about a 1.5km walk from Hindmarsh Lookout Carpark, and you’ll enjoy amazing views of Kangaroo Valley along the way. And don’t miss Fitzroy Falls in nearby Morton National Park.
4. CSIRO’s Australia Telescope, Narrabri
Star gazers unite! About 25km from Narrabri in NSW’s Northwest, you’ll find the largest radio telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. There are photo opportunities galore here, and throughout the region. Check out the beautiful Namoi Valley and Mount Kaputar’s spectacular Summit lookout. More info here.
5. Stockton Bight, Port Stephens
These mammoth sand dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands at Anna Bay in Port Stephens are the largest moving coastal mass in the Southern Hemisphere. Apart from being wicked fun if you’ve got a sand board and an adventurous spirit, they’re also great to explore on a quad bike or the back of a camel! More info here.
6. The Bogey Hole, Newcastle
Ocean pools are a dime a dozen all over the east coast but this one, located off Shortland Esplanade, is something special. The pool was hand cut by convicts in 1820 and features postcard views to Port Stephens and Merewether. It’s also NSW Heritage-Listed and a must-visit place for a cooling dip. More info here.
7. The Golden Guitar, Tamworth
Although the town’s annual country music festival won’t be going ahead in 2021 due to the pandemic, Australia’s mini Nashville is still well worth a visit, especially to strike a pose in front of its world-famous local icon: the 12 metre-high Golden Guitar! Don’t forget to drop into the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame while in town.
8. Norah Head, Central Coast
It’s only 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney, but the picturesque Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve is Instagram heaven on a selfie stick. Plan a weekend trip and stay in the Light Keeper’s Quarters on the Reserve, where you’ll enjoy the views and may even spot a migrating whale or two. More info here.
9. The Koala Hospital, Port Macquarie
Spotting a koala in the wild is becoming harder and harder, especially after last season’s devastating bushfires. So if you’re on the Mid-North Coast, pop into this famous wildlife rehabilitation facility (you’ll have to book first). You might get the chance to watch koalas being treated and even see babies in the neonatal crib.
10. Nightcap National Park, Lismore
The Northern Rivers town of Lismore is a bohemian mecca for artists and buskers – and just minutes from some of the country’s most beautiful national parks. Explore the ancient World Heritage-listed rainforests in Nightcap National Park, which is also home to Minyon Falls Lookout and the Byron Glow Worms experience.