Top 8 trips from Sydney

Feel like it's time for quick getaway to refill your cup? If you want to escape the city and feel the heart of Australia, here are our favourite places to visit on the beautiful North Coast of New South Wales (and beyond!).

1. Sydney to Ballina

A peaceful beach with bright blue water and lots of rockpools close to shore. The headland in the background is covered in green trees.

Not just about the Big Prawn! Blessed with natural beauty, golden beaches and a rich sense of history, Ballina is the sort of town postcards were made for. Whether you’re at the beach, strolling through the park or enjoying superb seafood, every day is one to remember - and you can get a comfortable overnight trip from Sydney to Ballina from just $76.  

2. Sydney to Byron Bay

Silhouette of a surfer riding a wave in the ocean. The sky is tinted golden and in the distance are several layers of mountain ranges.

Make your way up to Byron Bay from only $68! Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle, unparalleled surf culture and unspoilt natural environment of bohemian and beautiful Byron. It’s no wonder celebrities like Zac Efron and Chris Hemsworth have settled here permanently! This part of the world is filled with legendary surf beaches, so make sure you bring your surfboard along for the ride. There are walking tracks to major attractions like the Cape Byron Lighthouse, where you can spot dolphins from Australia’s most easterly point, and most of what you’re looking for will be within walking distance.

3. Sydney to Yamba

A peaceful beach with a smattering of people on the sand and in the water. The water is a deep turquoise, and there are several tall pine trees by the shore's edge.

If you’re keen for world-famous surf reserves and idyllic beaches, without the crowds and fanfare of Byron Bay, then taking a trip up to Yamba is the perfect choice for you. From just $68 you’ll arrive in comfort on a Greyhound, relaxed and ready for a beach escape. Head to the National Surfing Reserve at Angourie Point, one of the best right-hand breaks in Australia. Try a little cliff jumping into the natural springs of Angourie Blue and Green Pools or, for the ultimate return to nature, tackle the Yuraygir Coastal Walk. This 65km stretch south to Red Rock even has overnight camping spots along the way!

4. Sydney to Coffs Harbour

Two small waterfalls flowing over a cliff into a pool. The rock face has tones of orange where the sunlight hits it, and green vines and moss grow behind the waterfall. The sky is a clear blue with a cloud peeping out behind the tall gum trees.

From just $68 you can escape to Coffs Harbour, perhaps best known as the home of the Big Banana monument and amusement park. Make sure you snap a selfie there, but then get out and explore – in the waters off the Coffs Harbour Marina, you’ll find the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a haven for dolphins, turtles, tropical fish and migrating whales, while just east of Coffs lies the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, with its large population of wedge-tailed shearwater birds. An idyllic getaway destination with a subtropical climate, Coffs Harbour is also known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil rainforests, where you can enjoy surfing, bushwalking and mountain biking.

5. Sydney to Port Macquarie

A secluded bay with many rockpools and clear turquoise water. A stretch of white sand leads up to a hill covered in dark green trees. In the distance is a grassy headland with a white lighthouse perched on top.

One of Australia’s most popular and charming holiday destinations awaits when you travel from Sydney to Port Macquarie! From just $58 you’ll find a picturesque paradise with 17 gorgeous beaches, a sublime rainforest boardwalk and a diverse array of attractions including the famous Koala Hospital and Billabong Zoo. It’s a wildlife wonderland, with sparkling estuaries that play host to spirited bottlenose dolphins, and a whale watching season that runs from May to November. Throw in a busy events calendar, a range of fantastic restaurants and great weather all year ‘round, and it’s no surprise that Port Macquarie is one of Australia’s favourite places to holiday.

6. Sydney to Kempsey

A wide river with a glassy, tranquil surface reflecting the lush green forest of trees growing on the opposite side. A small wooden pier sits over the edge of the water. The sky is a clear blue with a few wispy white clouds. It looks like a very peaceful spot.

Pay tribute to Aussie icon Slim Dusty with a trip to his hometown of Kempsey. From $47 you can get there with Greyhound! Visit the Slim Dusty Centre to learn more about this country music legend, and pick up your very own Akubra at the showroom. Speaking of hats, just half an hour out of town is the sleepy village of Hat Head, with gorgeous walking trails through the national park leading to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

7. Sydney to the Gold Coast

A wide expanse of beach at what looks like sunrise or sunset. The sky and clouds are pale purple and orange, which reflects off the wet sand. Tall skyscrapers line the edge of the beach.

Take an overnight trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast from just $81! As you cross the border into Queensland, you’ll reach the southern end of the Gold Coast. This extraordinary 70km (43mi) stretch of sun, surf and sand begins with a stop at Coolangatta, renowned for its clear waters and casual beachside culture. Finally, you’ll stop at Surfers Paradise, the jewel in the Gold Coast’s crown. The bus will drop you off in the heart of Surfers Paradise, so you can head straight for Cavill Avenue to take a stroll down the ‘Glitter Strip’; take in the views from the top of Q1, the tallest building in Australia; or go for a dip in Surfers Paradise Beach, perhaps the most iconic beach in Queensland. You can also get your adrenaline pumping with thrills, spills and animal encounters at one of the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks, or escape to the breathtaking Gold Coast Hinterland for a weekend of wildlife and waterfalls.

8. Sydney to Brisbane

Brisbane from above, looking down onto a river with a boat heading towards the city. Trees line the river. The skyscrapers and buildings are reflecting the light from the setting sun.

Forget the plane or train - did you know you can get from Sydney to Brisbane from just $79?! A cosmopolitan hub of arts, culture and dining, Brisbane is famous for its relaxed and laidback vibe. You’ll enjoy lazing in the sun around the sandy lagoons of South Bank Parklands; strolling through the majestic City Botanic Gardens and nearby Roma Street Parkland; cruising the Brisbane River on a CityCat or vintage paddle wheeler; climbing the iconic Story Bridge and abseiling down the Kangaroo Point Cliffs; cuddling a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; and attending one of the city’s major sporting or cultural events.

Wherever you choose to escape to, you can relax in your reclining leather seat, stay connected with free WiFi and an in-seat USB charger, and keep cool in air-conditioned comfort while you enjoy the view through panoramic windows. Prefer aisle or window seats? There’s no need to queue – simply reserve your favourite spot with our seat selection feature.

You can unlock even more benefits, as well as exclusive offers and deals, by joining our Greyhound Rewards program. When you join, every ticket purchased on our network will earn you G-Dollars, which you can redeem on your very next trip or save up for a special occasion. The choice is yours!

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