New South Wales School Holidays 2026

Best Times to Book

For NSW school holidays, booking accommodation 6-8 weeks in advance is recommended for popular destinations like Byron Bay, the South Coast, and Blue Mountains. Summer holidays (December-January) require even earlier planning, with many coastal accommodations booking out 3-4 months ahead.

Budget Considerations

School holiday periods in NSW typically see accommodation prices increase by 20-40% compared to term time. Consider travelling mid-week during shorter breaks for better rates, or explore lesser-known destinations like the Shoalhaven region or Central West NSW for more affordable options without compromising on experience.

Weather by Holiday Period

• Summer Holidays (Dec-Jan): Hot and humid, perfect for beaches. Average Sydney temperature 25-30°C. Watch for bushfire conditions in regional areas.
• Autumn Break (April): Mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn colours in the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands.
• Winter Break (July): Cool to cold, especially inland. Great for snow experiences at Thredbo or Perisher in the Snowy Mountains.
• Spring Break (September-October): Variable weather but generally warming up. Wildflower season in many regions.

Sydney Region

Sydney offers world-class attractions during school holidays. Taronga Zoo runs special holiday programs, while the Australian Museum and Powerhouse Museum offer interactive exhibits perfect for children. Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is free and family-friendly, and the Royal Botanic Garden provides peaceful green space in the heart of the city.

Blue Mountains

Just 90 minutes from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offers cooler temperatures and stunning scenery. Scenic World's railway and cableway are perennial family favourites, while Jenolan Caves provides underground adventures. During winter holidays, log fires and cosy accommodation make this region particularly appealing.

South Coast

From Wollongong to Eden, the NSW South Coast features pristine beaches, whale watching (May-November), and charming coastal towns. Jervis Bay's white sand beaches are famous for dolphins and crystal-clear water, while the Sapphire Coast offers excellent fishing and camping.

Hunter Valley

While known for wineries, the Hunter Valley is increasingly family-friendly with chocolate factories, cheese tastings, and Hunter Valley Gardens. The region hosts special events during school holidays, and hot air balloon rides offer unique experiences for older children.

Regional NSW

Beyond the coast, regional NSW offers authentic Australian experiences. Dubbo's Western Plains Zoo allows camping among African animals, while Lightning Ridge offers opal mining adventures. The Snowy Mountains provide skiing in winter and hiking in summer, with Kosciuszko National Park being Australia's alpine playground.

School Holiday Programs

Many NSW councils and community organisations run vacation care programs during school holidays. These typically need to be booked well in advance, especially for the longer summer break. Check with your local council for availability and costs, which are often subsidised for eligible families through the Child Care Subsidy.

Public Transport

Sydney's Opal card system offers discounted travel for children under 16. During school holidays, trains and buses are generally less crowded during peak hours, making it easier to explore the city with family. Regional NSW is best explored by car, though NSW TrainLink services connect major towns.

Free Activities

NSW offers numerous free family activities during school holidays. Many beaches have free lifeguard-patrolled areas, national parks charge only vehicle entry fees (free for pedestrians and cyclists), and Sydney's Art Gallery of NSW and Museum of Contemporary Art offer free general admission. Local libraries often run free school holiday programs with activities, workshops, and movie screenings.

Important Contacts

For official NSW school term dates and any updates, refer to the NSW Department of Education website. For travel advisories and road conditions, check Live Traffic NSW before regional trips. Parks Australia provides camping availability and conditions for national parks.