Head underground to an ancient cave

NSW has some of the most spectacular caves in Australia. Conquer the eerie, awe-inspiring depths of Jenolan Caves, the most ancient open caves in the world or walk in the footsteps of megafauna at Wellington Caves, where you'll find fossils and bones of the giant animals that roamed the area two million years ago. If you're up for venturing a little further afield, drive seven hours southwest of Sydney and you'll reach the Yarrangobilly Caves tucked away in northern Kosciuszko National Park in the state’s Snowy Mountains. The lengthy journey is well worth it for the six caves, each of which was created from a belt of limestone laid down some 440 million years ago.

Note: Due to extreme rainfall at the Jenolan Caves precinct that flooded buildings and caused landslips, the popular destination has closed to the public pending further assessment. For more information, click here.

Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mines, Wellington

Lace up for a hike

Take in the beauty of nature on a scenic walk through ancient landscapes. Top of the list is Dorrigo National Park, where you can amble along the 70-metre boardwalk at Skyway Lookout for panoramic views or stretch your legs along the 3.2km Crystal Shower Falls walk. Farther north, follow the family-friendly Protesters Falls walking trail through an ancient rainforest and you'll reach the base of a stunning waterfall. For a world-class mountain experience, head to Australia's highest peaks in the Snowy Mountains, where you can walk to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko in the warmer months. Stick closer to Sydney and tackle the Bouddi Coastal Walk. This stellar stroll is well-maintained and connects several of the Central Coast's most beloved beaches, offering ample opportunity for a dip.

Protesters Falls, Nightcap National Park - Credit: Visit Lismore

See NSW from above

Float high above the rolling hills and vine-covered valleys of Mudgee with Balloon Aloft’s breakfast flight or for an equally dreamy view, soar above the Hunter Valley with Beyond Ballooning at sunrise. Visit Scenic World and ride the glass-floored Skyway for breathtaking views and thrills in the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. On the South Coast, you can climb 30 metres above the forest floor and enjoy sweeping ocean and rainforest views on Australia's highest zip-line at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill

Get out on the water

NSW offers endless on-the-water activities, whether you're drawn to the open ocean or winding rivers. Head to Coffs Harbour and learn all about Gumbaynggirr culture on a SUP tour with Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours. Join a small group canoeing tour with C-Change Adventures that'll fit your whole brood or pick up your paddle to explore waterways on a tour with Yamba Kayak, offering front-row, eye-to-eye encounters with dolphins along the estuary. There are more kayaking adventures to enjoy on the Nymboida River near Coffs Harbour, the Minnamurra River near Kiama, in Barrington Tops and on the Myall Lakes near Forster, or try ocean kayaking off the coast in the Cape Byron Marine Park.

C-Change Adventures, Coffs Harbour

Explore on two (or four) wheels

NSW has an incredible selection of mountain biking routes and cycling trails for kids and beginners, including the thrilling Thredbo Valley Track, which starts at the local village and follows the sparkling Thredbo River downstream. Nearby, Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail features over 21 kilometres of safe and sealed trail for families to enjoy. On the South Coast, sign up for a cycling tour with Southbound Escapes and learn all about Yuin Country from local guides. Get your heart racing on an off-road adventure with Glenworth Valley Quad Biking. Kids aged 12 and up can tackle the course through rolling hills and unspoiled bushland.

Thredbo Valley Track, Snowy Mountains

Animal encounters

Aim to get up close and personal with dolphins by venturing to Jervis Bay and Port Stephens or go snorkelling with seals and little penguins at Montague Island. Join Australia's Coastal Wilderness Adventures on a beginner's snorkelling adventure to see stingrays and turtles. There are also whale-watching tours along the coastline during the annual migration from May to November.

Prefer to stay on land? Ride along the beautiful sandy beaches in Coffs Harbour with HWH Stables. You can also sign up for experiences through bushland or along the riverbank with plenty of hands-on instruction and care. Families with a bit more time on their hands can book a night (or two) at Chesleigh Homestead in the Central West. The 3,000-acre property caters to every family member with horse riding, bird watching and cute farm animals to feed.

HWH Stables, Upper Orara

Get your adrenaline pumping

Thrill-seekers can take on the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere on a sandboard in Port Stephens. Avid skiers and boarders can’t get enough of the incredible peaks and runs in NSW’s Snowy Mountains high country. The major ski fields of Perisher, Thredbo and Charlotte Pass are great for families with plenty of post-snow activities and decadent treats – we're talking hot chocolates and apple strudel – to keep little ones happy. Here's the perfect three-day winter itinerary in the Snowies with kids to get you started.

Thredbo, Snowy Mountains