Beaches, Forests & Birthday Celebrations in NSW, Australia

Hilary - The Winemom
3 days ago
2 min read

Collage of a koala, person in forest, waterfall, beach at sunset, and lush greenery. Text: "Beaches, Forests & Birthday Celebrations, NSW, Australia."

After sipping our way through the historic vineyards of the Hunter Valley, we swapped our wine glasses for hiking boots, heading 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 and had to have a little peek at Raleigh Wines on the way...

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, where kangaroos and their tots, joeys, laze peacefully in the dunes.

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 retracing some steps from previous family visits and uncovering new natural wonders along the way.

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, with local birds calling overhead as we woke to see the sunrise over the bay & walked the coastal trails, including sighting the stunning black cockatoos!

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

We ventured into the dense, misty greens of Dorrigo National Park, where the famous Skywalk juts out above the ancient Gondwana rainforest canopy – such breath-taking views!

Four people smiling on a scenic lookout at Gondwana Rainforests, Australia. Lush green hills and blue sky in the background. — Skywalk at the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia

Three images of an elevated forest walkway with informational signs. Signs include bird illustrations and text. Verdant trees in the background.

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

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

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

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.

One of the highlights of our holiday was meeting Australia’s furry and feathered locals at the Billabong Zoo Koala & Wildlife Park - what a treat to get up close with the cuddly koalas, wallabies, and exotic birds.

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

We also dipped into Solitary Islands Marine Park, where turquoise waters and rocky outcrops house rich marine life. And Nymboi-Binderay National Park, a lesser-known treasure, is a must-visit with its dramatic river bends, forested trails and raw, untouched beauty.

Towering trees in a forest; central sign reads "Norm Jolly picnic area" with directions. Dirt path stretches through the dense woods.

As the sun set over the beautiful beaches, we packed our bags for the final stretch of our Australian adventure - a sisters' roadtrip to the vibrant city of Sydney.

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

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!