Short Trips Near Sydney: 4 Quiet Places to Recharge
didn’t want a long road trip. Just a few solo days out of the city, light packing, and places that didn’t feel like Sydney—even though they were all within reach. I threw a few essentials into my 20L waterproof backpack and went looking for stillness.
1.Little Bay
I started with the quietest one. Just a short walk from La Perouse, this small beach cove is linked by a wooden bridge and dotted with white buildings and ocean cliffs. Sunset hits the glass of the old chapel, and there’s something peaceful about hearing only waves.
There’s not much to do here—and that’s what I needed.
2.Kangaroo Valley
Driving through Hampden Bridge felt like stepping back a century. I crossed into old farmland and slowed down near the Bendeela campground. It was mostly quiet, just some hikers, a few vans, and a surprise sighting of a wombat in the grass.
I made coffee from the back of the car, sat still, and stayed longer than planned.
3.Dangar Island
No cars. No rush. Just a ferry, a few paths through thick trees, and locals cycling through quiet corners. I walked from the wharf to the café near the island's center. Bright houses, birds, and the sound of boats passing.
Didn’t take photos. Didn’t check the time. That kind of place.
4.Jervis Bay
I ended the short escape with a long drive—down to the white sand beaches I’d only heard about. The water at Jervis Bay is genuinely clear. I walked barefoot, ate nothing but fruit, and stayed until the wind changed.
This was where I finally unpacked everything from the best waterproof backpack for travel. 20L was enough: towel, journal, water, and one change of clothes.
These places weren’t far, but they gave me the space I needed.
No reception in parts. No plans either. Just movement, rest, and the kind of reset only solo trips deliver.
