Sydney to Taree road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops

Sydney to Taree road trip: Newcastle to Taree

Otherwise, continue along the Pacific Highway, passing Hunter Wetlands National Park and the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens.

The Newcastle to Taree leg of the Sydney to Taree road trip runs east and north of Port Stephens. First, it goes through Raymond Terrace before passing the southern fringes of Wallaroo National Park and Karuah National Park. The latter offers campgrounds and 4WD trails.

There is a strong argument for making little detours to the Port Stephens towns of Karuah, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. Jimmys Beach in Hawks Nest is particularly attractive.

There are plenty more coastal detours worth making on the way north. Seal Rocks, Myall Lake, Boomerang Beach, Booti Booti National Park and Forster are all worth adding to a slow road trip itinerary.

But if sticking close to the Pacific Highway, strong options for walking trails include Bulahdelah Mountain in Bulahdelah, plus the wildlife-sprinkled O’Sullivans Gap Picnic Area in Myall Lakes National Park.

After the Lennys Lookout Rest Area, there’s wine-tasting at Great Lakes Paddocks. The cafés of Coolongolook make for a decent lunch stop, while the National Motorcycle Museum in Nabiac should keep petrolheads entertained.

The turn-off for Taree is along Manning River Drive. Just before that, you can pay a visit to Khappinghat National Park, best known for its mountain bike trails.

Best Taree accommodation

Taree accommodation is available for from $105 per night. But the best choices are…

For central location: In Town Motor Inn.
For good value and a pool: Caravilla Motor Inn.
For charm and warmth: Birches B&B.
For distinctive character: A Railway Lodge.

13 brilliant experiences in Sydney you should book

The Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains.

(💲Great value 💲) Tick off several bucket list items on a highlights-packed Blue Mountains day tour.
Get perfect views of the world’s most beautiful city on a Sydney Harbour helicopter tour.
Save money with a multi-attraction pass.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Enjoy the romance of a tall ship cruise on Sydney Harbour.
Eat all you can at the Skyfeast at the top of Sydney Tower.
See migrating humpbacks – on a whale-watching cruise.
(Highly recommended ✅) Go behind the scenes of Australia’s most famous building on an Opera House tour.
Dine as the city lights up on sunset dinner cruise around the harbour.
Combine beers and stories on a historic pubs tour through the convict-era Rocks district.
Stand on your board and catch waves during Bondi Beach surfing lessons.
Go to wombat and kangaroo-spotting hotspots on a Southern Highlands tour.
Enjoy Sydney’s wild side on a Manly snorkelling & nature walk.
(🥇Top choice in Sydney) And, best of all, paddle to hidden beaches on a harbour kayaking adventure.