Sydney to Ballina road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops
Build in a Newcastle stopover?
The Sydney to Ballina drive continues between Morriset and Cooranbong, veering west of Lake Macquarie and near the southern end of Watagans National Park.
The motorway goes around the second largest city in New South Wales – Newcastle. But you might wish to make an overnight stop here.
If so, pay a visit to the magnificent ocean baths, such as Merewether Baths and Bogey Hole.
9 cool Newcastle experiences you need to book in advance
- An Adventure boat cruise along the Hunter coast – with thrills and scenery.
- A mobile phone-based scavenger hunt – explore the city differently.
- An architecture and street art walking tour – see all the best murals.
- A whale-watching tour – get close to the migrating humpback whales.
- A two hour city highlights tour by bus – get orientated when you first arrive.
- A scenic helicopter flight – see the spectacular coastline from above.
- A three hour craft beer and food-matching tour – get a taste of the drinking and dining scene.
- A food, drink and history walking tour – hear stories and indulge at the same time.
Other things to do in Newcastle include watching wildlife at Blackbutt Reserve, whale-watching tours and visiting several good quality museums.
Newcastle also offers coastal boat tours, street art walks and evening true crime tours.
Newcastle accommodation heroes include the lavish Crystalbrook Kingsley, the peppy QT Newcastle and the heritage-drenched Grand Hotel.
Click through for the next section: Port Stephens activities.