Explore New South Wales with YHA

From Sydney Harbour to the Outback – no other state combines surf beaches, rainforest, rugged bushland, snow-capped mountains, big rivers and the colours of the outback like New South Wales.

YHA accommodation in New South Wales

 

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YHA Sydney Harbour

Sydney | Gadigal Country

This modern, sustainable property in The Rocks draws an international crowd with its world-class harbour views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

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YHA Sydney Central

Sydney | Gadigal Country

Located in a heritage-listed building in the heart of Sydney, this bustling international hub is next to all major train & tram lines for easy access to the city's top attractions.

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YHA Byron Bay

Byron Bay | Bundjalung Country

Relax in good company at this state-of-the-art, sustainable YHA in Byron Bay. With gorgeous communal spaces & a great social vibe, you'll never want to leave.

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YHA Blue Mountains (Katoomba)

Katoomba | Gundungurra & Dharug Country

This historic lodge located right in the middle of Katoomba is as cosy as it is hospitable. Escape the city and make it your base for your next outdoor adventure.

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YHA Cape Byron (Byron Bay)

Byron Bay | Bundjalung Country

Just blocks from the beach, this laid-back oasis attracts a diverse crowd of global backpackers. Come for the surf, stay for the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

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YHA Pittwater Eco (Sydney)

Pittwater | Garigal Country

Perfect for those wishing to get out of the city without actually leaving Sydney, YHA Pittwater Eco (Sydney) is nestled on the hillside of Morning Bay in Ku-ring-gai National Park.

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YHA Thredbo

Thredbo | Ngarigo Country

Situated in Mt. Kosciuszko National Park, YHA Thredbo provides the ideal stay for hikers, skiers & mountain bikers looking to experience the Snowy Mountains.

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YHA Newcastle Beach

Newcastle | Awabakal Country

Opposite Newcastle Beach, and right in the centre of town, this friendly YHA is perfect for travellers looking for affordable accommodation.

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YHA Port Macquarie | Ozzie Pozzie Backpackers

Port Macquarie | Birpai Country

Located halfway between Sydney & Byron Bay, Ozzie Pozzie Backpackers is more like a resort than a hostel.

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Samurai Beach Bungalows (Port Stephens)

Anna Bay | Worimi Country

Gorgeous beaches, lush bushland, stunning bay and sea views and a great chill-out spot - that's Port Stephens and its award-winning YHA.

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Riverside Backpackers (Murwillumbah)

Murwillumbah | Bundjalung Country

Riverside Backpackers (Murwillumbah) is a homely hostel with stunning views, riverside gardens, and quirky decor in a 1911 captain's cottage.

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New South Wales: Trip inspiration & tips

  • Why you should visit Thredbo in Summer

    We're guessing that the first thing you think about when you hear someone mention Thredbo is snow. But it's not just for winter frivolity, there is so much more to experience all year round, especially in Summer!
  • Discover NSW's best hidden beaches

    Say goodbye to all your worries when you lie down and relax at some of the best secluded beaches all along New South Wales.
  • 101 Free Things To Do in Sydney

    There's a boatload of things to do in Sydney that don't cost a cent... So many in fact, we've rounded up a full 101 free things to do on your next visit to the Harbour City!
  • Why you should definitely put Newcastle on your travel list

    With superb swimming spots, incredible heritage architecture and coastal walks that will leave you breathless, a Newcastle getaway makes excellent travel sense.
  • Top LGBTQIA+ festivals and events around Australia

    LGBTQIA+ festivals and events are back, and there's something for everyone! From quiet reflections at multi-artform exhibitions to dancing and partying in step with a parade, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate queer identities and experiences with these festivities around the country!
  • From Manly to Palm Beach: Your guide to visiting Sydney's Northern Beaches

    Feel like you’re on holiday without leaving Sydney on an escape to the city’s chilled-out Northern Beaches. From Manly to Palm Beach (aka Home and Away’s Summer Bay), here are just a few highlights to add to a self-guided itinerary...
  • National parks near Aussie cities

    In Australia, you can have your big-city fix and a dose of nature, too. Beyond the city buzz, you’ll find a peaceful pocket of wilderness and wildlife just a short hop away at nearby national parks, from rainforests and waterfalls to wild beaches and coral reefs. You might even see a kangaroo or two! So pack some snacks and sunscreen and hit the trails at these must-see national parks near major Aussie cities.
  • 11 awesome canoeing and kayaking adventures in Australia

    Love doing your exploring with a paddle in hand? Us too. From sleepy canoe trips down wide, still rivers, to epic multi-day kayak trips to the country's wildest waterways, adventure's never far away when there's paddling involved. And the free upper body work out doesn't hurt either! Read on for a selection of the finest canoeing and kayaking adventures in Australia.
  • How to visit Byron Bay on a budget

    Byron Bay’s spectacular natural setting alone makes it an unmissable stop on an east coast Australia road trip. And while there may be more luxury cars than combi vans on the streets of this famously alternative New South Wales beach town these days, your visit needn’t break the bank.
  • Australia's best coastal walks

    If you’re a lover of long walks over dunes, along windswept cliffs or with the tide lapping at your ankles, you may have come to the right place. In this article, we've dug up some of the best coastal and beach walks across Australia.
  • The top whale watching spots in Australia

    As the majestic mammals set off on their epic mid-year migration, let YHA help you to discover the best places to spot them.
  • 7 oddball Aussie sporting events worth checking out

    From a sailing regatta held on dry land to a sporting celebration in honour of the humble watermelon, these offbeat events prove that Australians will turn almost anything into a sport.
  • Best mountain biking trails in New South Wales

    Home to the country's premier mountain biking destination, Thredbo, as well as hundreds of smaller parks and trail networks, NSW is fantastically equipped to provide endless weekends of fun for the mountain biking enthusiast.
  • First Nations food experiences in New South Wales

    South-Eastern Australia is home to a wealth of different Indigenous nations and cultures, each with their own knowledge of native foods and medicines. With a fine-toothed comb, we've scoured the land to bring you some of the very best bush tucker experiences across NSW and the ACT – hungry yet?
  • 20 must-do backpacker experiences in Australia

    From wildlife to wilderness, Australia has no shortage of magnificent sights and epic experiences to discover. To help you make the most of your time Down Under we’ve rounded up 20 iconic things you have to tick off your Aussie bucket list.
  • The top arts and culture festivals in Australia

    Whether you want to laugh yourself silly, dance the night away, or indulge your passion for words, wine or creativity, we’ve rounded up the very best arts and culture festivals across the country.
  • The top 9 sporting events in Australia

    Whether you’re a cricket tragic, tennis superfan or just want to be a part of the action, Australia is one of the best places in the world to be a spectator.
  • 6 great mountains to hike in Australia

    Australia might not be home to the world’s highest peaks, but we sure have an incredible variety of mountains worth hiking. Here are just six spectacular summits to bag across the country and make it back to ground level in time for dinner.
  • 5 Best YHA Rooftops in Australia

    Home of yoga, movie nights, and accidental-on-purpose naps in the sunshine, YHA rooftops are the place to be. Here are 5 of the very best to tick off...
  • Sydney's top 5 cycling routes

    We hope you brought your Lycra, because it's time to hit the saddle! Just kidding – you don't need the full cycling kit to enjoy these stunning rides across Sydney, just a big bottle o' water, a bicycle of some kind and a sense of adventure!
  • Top Ten Sumptuous Sydney Markets

    From quirky, boutique clothing and jewellery to fresh, local produce direct from farmers and growers - Sydney has it all in spades! We've rounded up our ten favourite markets in the Sydney for you to peruse at your leisure...
  • New South Wales: Tours & experiences

  • Barangaroo Cultural Tours

    From past to the present, Barangaroo is a place of spiritual and cultural significance. Join the tour, be a part of the story. 90 minute walking tour.
  • Sydney Opera House Behind The Scenes Tour

    Go behind the scenes & explore the most recognisable building in Australia. Step inside this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site & make memories to last a lifetime.
  • Blue Mountains Canyoning and Rock Climbing

    The most epic way to spend a day in the Blue Mountains! From breathtaking canyons to epic abseiling and rock climbing- you are guaranteed an unforgettable adventure!
  • Skydive Byron Bay

    Experience the ultimate adrenaline hit at one of the most popular skydive spots in Australia! Free fall at 200km/hr for 60 seconds before gliding over epic scenery.
  • Bondi Beach Surf Lesson

    Learn to surf on Australias most iconic beach!
  • 1 day Hunter Valley wineries tour from Sydney

    The perfect Sydney escape- venture into the heartland of NSW wine country! Visit three or four of the Hunter Valley's best boutique wineries and enjoy a number of private tastings.
  • Taronga Zoo Entry and Return Ferry Combo

    Jump aboard a Zoo Express rocket, not only getting you to Taronga Zoo quickly but you can sit back & enjoy a scenic feast of Sydney harbour.
  • Aboriginal Heritage Sydney Walking Tour

    The ideal introduction to the most ancient human culture on this 90 minute walkabout with a local aboriginal guide. We strongly recommend this tour for visitors and locals alike.
  • Byron Bay Dolphin Kayaking

    Take a guided kayaking tour in the stunning Byron Bay Marine Park. Come face to face with dolphins and other marine life as you paddle around the most easterly point of Australia.
  • Skydive Newcastle

    Enjoy the breathtaking views over Sydney's Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter valley, shimmering lakes and beaches! One of the most spectacular drop zones in Australia!
  • Top things to do in New South Wales

    1. Discover Aussie surf culture in Byron Bay, Australia's most easterly point.
    2. Marvel at the Blue Mountains' iconic Three Sisters and ancient Jurassic monument.
    3. Sandboard the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere at Port Stephens.
    4. Walk to the top of Australia Mt Kosciusko, from alpine adventure hub in the Snowy Mountains, Thredbo.
    5. Share unspoiled beaches with friendly kangaroos on the South Coast.
    6. Indulge in Hunter Valley wineries and gourmet food in the country's oldest wine region.
    7. Get a taste of the country at Tamworth's music festival and jackaroo/jilaroo schools.
    8. Learn to surf with the professionals on Newcastle's famous surf breaks.
    9. Relax in alternative Belligen and Nimbin to see which one wins 'cruisiest town in Oz'
    10. Visit the world's only koala hospital in Port Macquarie for free

    YHA acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to the elders, past and present, and the extended Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We recognise their custodianship of the land, sea, & water for over 60,000 years.

    YHA Australia is a proud member of Hostelling International - a network of more than 3,000 hostels across 59 countries that share the mission of making travel more sustainable & accessible.