Cooling Off in New South Wales: The Best Summer Water Activities

Looking for an adventure this summer? New South Wales is the perfect place for thrill-seekers who want to beat the heat while enjoying the great outdoors. The state boasts a long coastline, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters – a paradise for those who enjoy water activities. Here are some of the best water activities you can experience during your stay at one of our resorts in New South Wales.

Cultural paddleboarding in Coffs Harbour’s Solitary Islands Marine Park

The Solitary Islands Marine Park extends north from Coffs Harbour to Sandon River along about 75 km of coastline. It’s a popular destination for water activities, such as paddleboarding, snorkelling, diving, and dolphin and whale watching. With over 550 species of reef fish, it’s no surprise that marine enthusiasts flock to this area.

One standout experience is cultural stand-up paddleboarding, which takes place on the ancestral homelands of the Gumbaynggirr tribal nation. Paddleboarding has become a way for residents and visitors alike to connect with the land and its people. Many tours and experiences are guided by the direct descendants of Gumbaynggirr people, who share their knowledge of the area’s history and culture with participants.

Not only is paddleboarding culturally significant, but it’s also a fantastic way to explore the park’s diverse marine life. Visitors can catch a glimpse of colourful fish, sea turtles, among other species, in the park’s crystal-clear waters.

Stay: Club Wyndham Coffs Harbour is just a short walk from the golden sand of Charlesworth Bay Beach. It has three pools, a nine-hole golf course, basketball and tennis courts, a spa, and a well-quipped gym. It is close to The Big Banana Fun Park and other scenic beaches. Owners can use for free the resort’s mountain bikes, golf clubs, cricket set, boogie boards, tennis, basketball, and pool equipment.

Surfing in Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is home to some of the most stunning beaches on the planet. With 17 beaches in the immediate vicinity, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a family day out, surfing, 4WDing, or learning to surf, you’re sure to find an uncrowded spot to relax and unwind.

Surfers will be thrilled with the world-class breaks and consistent swell that Port Macquarie’s beaches offer. Among the popular spots are the Breakwall at Town Beach, Grants Beach in North Haven, Flynns Beach, and Shelly Beach. Flynns Beach is an excellent option for beginners, with good protection from westerly and southerly winds most of the year.

Stay: Club Wyndham Flynns Beach is close to the warm white sand of Flynns Beach and adorable koalas at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. The resort has a heated outdoor pool, a children’s pool, spa with sauna, on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and games room. Owners can use for free the resort’s surfboards, bikes, e-bikes, beach equipment, fishing rods, body boards, and board games.

Club Wyndham Port Macquarie has a heated pool, games room, gym, and BBQ areas.

Club Wyndham Port Macquarie – Jeremy Rogers Photography

Dolphin cruising in Port Stephens

Port Stephens is well-known for its abundance of bottlenose dolphins, making it a must-visit destination for those who love wildlife encounters. Take a dolphin cruise with your family and friends and witness these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. The clear waters and stunning coastline provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable day out on the water.

To see the dolphins at their most active, plan your trip between September and May, which are the warmer months. Visitors can expect to be amazed as the dolphins swim alongside the boat, performing playful jumps and flips. You might even spot other marine animals like sea turtles, whales, and seabirds.

Cruise around the magnificent Port Stephens Harbour and take in the sights of Tomaree and Yacaaba Headlands, Shoal Bay, Nelson Bay, and the Northern Harbour while you relax on the deck. You’ll also be treated to entertaining and informative commentary on board.

Stay: Club Wyndham Shoal Bay is on the edge of white sandy beaches and unspoilt national parks. The resort has an outdoor swimming pool, children’s paddle pool, heated indoor pool and spa, games room and BBQ facilities. Owners can use for free the resort’s stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, e-bikes, push bikes and fishing gear.

Club Wyndham Port Stephens offers two-bedroom apartments that boast fully equipped kitchens, spacious living and dining areas, and laundry facilities.

Harbour jet boat ride in Sydney

One of the best ways to experience the vibrant city of Sydney is by taking a harbour jet boat ride. This thrilling adventure takes you through the waters of Sydney Harbour, past iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

As you speed through the harbour, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the spray of the water on your face. The jet boat ride is not for the faint of heart, as the boat can reach speeds of up to 75km/hour, with a continual mix of stunts including, wild spins, sweeping fishtails and power brake stops. However, the experienced drivers ensure that the ride is safe and enjoyable for everyone on board. In addition to the excitement of the ride, you’ll also get to enjoy some stunning views of the harbour and the city skyline.

Stay: Club Wyndham Sydney is less than a 10-minute walk to both of Sydney’s iconic tourist attractions – the Harbour Bridge and Opera house. Bondi’s famous beach is just a bus ride away. The hotel has a café and bar and a gym. Owners can use for free the hotel’s e-bikes and board games.

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