YesDrive-logo
4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Based on 813 reviews

Family-Friendly Road Trips from Sydney

Family-Friendly Road Trips from Sydney

Looking to escape the city for a fun-filled family adventure? Whether you’re a Sydney local or a visitor ready to explore beyond the Harbour Bridge, there are plenty of amazing destinations just a drive away. With a reliable hire car from YesDrive, your next road trip will be smooth, comfortable, and full of unforgettable memories.

From beach towns to mountain escapes, we’ve rounded up some of the best family-friendly road trips from Sydney that everyone—big and small—will enjoy.


Table of Contents


Blue Mountains – Nature, History & Adventure

Drive time from Sydney: 2 hours

A classic getaway for families, the Blue Mountains offer fresh air, scenic views, and kid-friendly adventures. Drive west along the M4 and watch the city fade into rugged cliffs and eucalyptus forests.

Highlights:

  • Scenic World: Take a ride on the world’s steepest passenger railway and enjoy the Skyway cable car.

  • Echo Point & The Three Sisters: A great photo spot and walking area for little legs.

  • Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park (en route): Meet koalas, kangaroos, and native birds.

Travel Tip:
Pack layers—the temperature drops in the mountains. With a hire car from YesDrive, there’s room for jackets, snacks, and even a picnic blanket.


Jervis Bay – Beaches and Wildlife

Drive time from Sydney: 3 hours

Jervis Bay is known for its powdery white sand and calm, clear waters—ideal for families. Located on the NSW South Coast, it’s a relaxed destination where beach time, nature walks, and wildlife spotting come easy.

Highlights:

  • Hyams Beach: Famously white sand and safe swimming.

  • Booderee National Park: Trails, botanic gardens, and wallabies.

  • Dolphin cruises: Depart regularly from Huskisson and are a hit with kids.

Local Insight:
Avoid peak traffic by leaving Sydney early in the morning or after lunch. With YesDrive, you can choose the perfect car for a comfortable beach road trip—think SUVs for space or hatchbacks for easy parking.


Port Stephens – Sand Dunes and Dolphin Cruises

Drive time from Sydney: 2.5 hours

Port Stephens is the ultimate blend of beach fun and outdoor thrills. Families love this coastal gem for its laid-back vibe and endless options to keep the kids entertained.

Highlights:

  • Stockton Sand Dunes: Go sandboarding or take a 4WD tour.

  • Nelson Bay: Great for a relaxing swim or boat ride.

  • Toboggan Hill Park: Mini-golf, giant maze, and (of course) toboggan rides.

Travel Tip:
If you’re travelling with toddlers, plan for short drives and take breaks at scenic picnic spots along the way—your YesDrive hire car will have the space for all your essentials, including toys and snacks.


Canberra – Museums and Family Attractions

Drive time from Sydney: 3.5 hours

Australia’s capital is full of family-friendly activities—and many of them are free! Canberra is a great road trip option if you’re looking to combine fun with education.

Highlights:

  • Questacon: An interactive science museum kids absolutely love.

  • National Zoo & Aquarium: One of the few combined zoos and aquariums in Australia.

  • Australian War Memorial: Family-friendly exhibits with kids’ discovery zones.

Local Insight:
Canberra roads are easy to navigate, and parking is abundant. Hiring a car through YesDrive gives you the flexibility to stop at charming country towns along the way, like Goulburn or Bungendore.


Tips for Stress-Free Road Trips with Kids

Travelling with children? Here are a few road-tested tips to keep everyone happy:

  • Plan regular stops: Let the kids stretch and explore at playgrounds or lookouts.

  • Pack smart: Bring snacks, entertainment (audiobooks, tablets), and a small first-aid kit.

  • Use apps: Google Maps, Waze, and kid-friendly podcasts make the drive more fun.

  • Drive during nap times: If your child still naps, plan longer drives during those hours for a peaceful trip.

With a hire car from YesDrive, you can select the perfect vehicle for your family size and travel style—with extras like child seats and GPS available upon request.


How YesDrive Makes Family Travel Easy

At YesDrive, we know that travelling with kids comes with its own set of needs. That’s why we’re here to make car hire in Sydney and Hobart simple, affordable, and family-friendly.

Why families love YesDrive:

  • Spacious, reliable vehicles for all family sizes

  • Easy online booking and flexible pick-up/drop-off times

  • Extras available: Child seats, booster seats, GPS, and more

  • Local knowledge from our friendly staff to help plan your trip

Whether you’re taking a day trip to the coast or heading off for a week-long adventure, we’ve got the car to get you there comfortably and safely.


Book Your Family Road Trip Car with YesDrive

Family road trips are all about bonding, exploring, and making great memories together—and having the right car makes all the difference.

Ready to start planning your next escape from Sydney? Book your family-friendly hire car today at YesDrive and drive away with confidence.