Beaches, Forests & Birthday Celebrations in NSW, Australia

Hilary - The Winemom
Feb 9
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

After sipping our way through the historic vineyards of the Hunter Valley, we swapped our wine glasses for hiking boots and headed deeper into nature.

Vineyards with lush greenery under blue sky, a red wall with hanging plants and winery signs, Raleigh Wines text, and mesh-covered vines.

I couldn't resist a little peek at Raleigh Wines in the valley near the Dorrigo plateau. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made it a delightful stop!

Coastal view with rocky cliffs and ocean waves, green headland, and a sign labeled "Bonville Headland." Clear blue sky, serene mood.

Our journey took us to Emerald Beach. Here, kangaroos and their little ones, joeys, laze peacefully on the headlands. It felt like stepping into a postcard!

Scenic triptych of a beach at sunset. First: lush greenery, bright sky. Second: kangaroos on grass by the sea. Third: setting sun over hills.

Returning to Australia’s gorgeous beaches and forests after 15 years was nothing short of magical. This time, we retraced some steps from previous family visits while uncovering new natural wonders along the way. We also celebrated another year around the sun!

Two people doing yoga on Moonee beach at sunset, silhouetted against the sky. Waves and rocks surround them. Calm, serene atmosphere. — Beach yoga at sunrise at Moonee Beach

The nearby Moonee Beach Nature Reserve added an extra layer of serenity. Local birds called overhead as we woke to see the sunrise over the bay. We walked the coastal trails, even spotting stunning black cockatoos!

Exploring Dorrigo National Park

Three images show Dorrigo National Park: a cascading waterfall, misty treetops, and towering trees with dense green foliage.

The birthday celebrations continued as we ventured among the dense, misty greens of the rainforest trees and the waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park.

Four people smiling on a scenic lookout at Gondwana Rainforests, Australia. Lush green hills and blue sky in the background. — From the famous Dorrigo Skywalk with breath-taking views of the ancient Gondwana Rainforest canopy.

Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the large colourful Wompoo Fruit-Dove, the Eastern Whipbird with its distinctive whip-crack call, and the Satin Bowerbird. The males are known for their iridescent deep blue plumage. If you're lucky, you might even spot the elusive Green Catbird with its cat-like tail!

White cafe exterior, woman entering; plate with colorful food; woman serving at counter under "Components Cafe" sign, vibrant decor.

Between nature hikes, we paused for a bite at Components Café in Dorrigo. This charming stop was brimming with local flavour, delivering incredible food and coffee.

Outdoor cafe at the Old Butter Factory with pasta and drinks on the table, historical sign, vintage tractors, and lush greenery under a blue sky.

Next, we meandered through the valley to Bellingen, a creative, historic little town with a warm community. We ended up lunching at the Butter Factory Café, housed in a restored building with rustic character and artisan flair.

Wildlife Encounters at Billabong Zoo

Woman hugging a giant koala statue, feeding wallabies, and observing an emu at Billabong Zoo. Lush greenery background. — Feeding the Wallabies!

One of the highlights of our holiday was meeting Australia’s furry and feathered locals at the Billabong Zoo Koala & Wildlife Park.

Three people smile at a koala breeding center. A koala lounges on branches. Signs read "Billabong Koala Breeding Centre" with date details.

What a treat to get up close with the cuddly koalas, wallabies, and exotic birds!

Towering trees in a forest; central sign reads "Norm Jolly picnic area" with directions. Dirt path stretches through the dense woods. — Left: Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys); Right: New England Blackbutt (Eucalyptus campanula)

We also dipped into Solitary Islands Marine Park. The turquoise waters and rocky outcrops house rich marine life. After that, we explored Nymboi-Binderay National Park. This lesser-known treasure is a must-visit for its dramatic river bends, forested trails, giant trees, and raw, untouched beauty.

Waterfall in forest, informational sign about Dangar Falls, and people walking on a sunny path with lush trees.

We ended the day at Dangar Falls, just north of Dorrigo. We admired the gushing 30-metre waterfall cascading into the waters below.

Two images of Dangar Falls; one shows the waterfall under a blue sky, another features a person standing on grass near the falls.

We revelled in a bracing cold plunge, swimming from the riverbank to beneath the falls. It was the most invigorating and unforgettable way to close out the day!

The Final Stretch: Sydney Awaits

As the sun set over the beautiful coast, we packed our bags for the final stretch of our Australian adventure. A sisters' road trip to the vibrant city of Sydney awaited us!

Join us for the last leg of our Australian adventure where we explore harbour views, iconic landmarks, and a few final sips - WineTots - to end our unforgettable trip down under.

Birds and a possum among lush green foliage. Blue sky backdrop. Text: Animals of Australia. Energetic and natural scene. — From left to right: White-cheeked honeyeater, Common brushtail possum, Rainbow Lorikeet

Please note: all information is correct at the date of publication, February 2026. See websites below for up-to-date info!

Contact Me – Hilary - at hello@winetots.com for more details on your favourite spots to visit & to book a personalised tour of your own – behind the scenic routes of the Plett & Cape Winelands & beyond!

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Tot-Friendly Eco Family Adventures along the Garden Route