15 Top-Rated New South Wales Tours

New South Wales is a fantastic place for tours thanks to its stunning coastline, rolling vineyards, rugged mountains, and charming towns. Whether you’re eager to see whales breach off Newcastle, sip world-class wines in Hunter Valley, or explore the coastal scenery by boat, NSW offers a range of memorable experiences. We especially love the Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle for its chances to see majestic whales in the wild, and the Tastes of the Hunter Half Day Tour for its delicious food and drink pairings. Each tour provides a chance to dive into regional highlights with expert guides, flexible schedules, and the chance to connect with nature, culture, and local flavors.

Quick Overview

Our list of the 15 best tours in New South Wales covers a broad spectrum of experiences. From whale watching cruises and coastal boat adventures to premium wine tastings, self-guided e-bike tours, and even private full-day excursions in the Blue Mountains, there’s something for every traveler. For a taste of local spirits, the Distillery Daily Tour is perfect for spirit enthusiasts, while families and adventure seekers might enjoy kayaking at night or exploring Eden’s scenic coast. Scroll down to find detailed insights into each experience.

1. Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle

Prebook to secure a spot on this eco-tourism whale watching cruise that departs from Newcastle. For around $90, you’ll spend about 2 hours aboard a comfortable boat designed for wildlife encounters. This tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone eager to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. The guide shares insights about whale behavior, coastal scenery, and marine ecology. Many travelers rave about the chance to witness whales breaching, with some even spotting seals and dolphins along the way. The tour includes wet-weather gear and photos, making it a hassle-free and memorable outing. The high ratings (5/5 from 157 reviews) reflect its reliability and the thrill of seeing these gentle giants close up.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers who want an authentic, flexible, and well-organized whale-watching trip. Book early, as this tour fills quickly during migration season.

2. Tastes of the Hunter Half Day Tour

At number 2, this half-day food and drink experience in Hunter Valley combines guided wine tastings, local produce, and premium spirits. For $93.24, you’ll visit boutique wineries, a distillery, and enjoy expertly paired cheese and chocolates. The tour includes door-to-door transfers, so you can relax and focus on tasting. Guests particularly love the specialized pairings of chocolates and wines, and the knowledgeable guide, Kristy, who adds local flavor and stories. The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it an excellent choice for an afternoon escape from Sydney or as a relaxed introduction to Hunter’s culinary scene.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice if you want a curated tasting experience without the hassle of driving. Perfect for couples or groups seeking rich flavors and local stories.

3. Hunter Coastal Adventure Tour by Boat from Newcastle

For a breathtaking coastal perspective, this 2.5-hour cruise from Newcastle takes you past sea caves, cliffs, and historic forts. The tour includes commentary about the marine environment and local history, with photos provided afterward. Travelers rave about the dolphin and turtle sightings, and the front-row vantage points. The boat’s large windows and outdoor decks make this cruise a visual feast, with many noting the excellent guide’s narration as a highlight. It’s suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and coastal scenery without strenuous activity.

Bottom Line: Ideal for lovers of nature and coastlines who want a scenic, relaxing cruise with expert insights. Prebooking guarantees your spot.

4. Premium E Bike Hire at the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

This self-guided e-bike rental offers a flexible way to explore Byron and Tweed hinterlands at your own pace. For $74.02, you get a high-quality e-bike, all gear, and suggested routes with stops at charming villages, scenic bridges, and art centers. Many travelers appreciate the easy cycling over railway tunnels and across bridges, with the ability to build a personalized day. The bikes are in excellent condition, and the staff provides detailed maps and tips, which makes this perfect for active travelers who prefer independence and scenic discovery.

Bottom Line: A great way to combine outdoor activity with scenic sightseeing, especially if you enjoy setting your own pace. Ideal for families and fitness-conscious travelers.

5. Distillery Daily Tour

For spirits enthusiasts, this 1-hour guided tour of Husk Distillery is a must. The tour includes a walk through how gin and rum are produced, followed by tastings of Ink gin, spirits, and cocktails. For $35.14, you get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process and the chance to sample some of the best local spirits. The tour is especially popular among those who appreciate craft distilling and want to learn about Australian spirits.

Bottom Line: An engaging, compact experience that pairs education with tastings. Perfect for a quick, spirited visit in Tweed Valley.

6. Personalised wine tour experience in the beautiful NSW Southern Highlands

At around $175, this full-day private wine tour is perfect for those who like to customize their day. Your local guide, Peter, creates a tailored experience visiting boutique wineries and scenic picnic spots. The tour includes entrance to the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame, blending culture with wine. Many travelers praise Peter’s personal attention and local knowledge, making the day feel like a day out with a friend rather than just a tour.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want a flexible, personalized day exploring the Highlands’ best wineries and sights.

7. Naru Beach Night Kayak Tour

This 2-hour night kayak adventure on Lake Macquarie is a unique way to see marine life after dark. For $94.68, you paddle illuminated double kayaks, with guides sharing insights into the ecosystem and local history. The clear kayaks light up as you glide over the water, offering a quiet, magical experience. It’s a hit with families and those wanting a peaceful, offbeat activity. The small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention.

Bottom Line: Perfect for families or curious travelers wanting a tranquil, visually stunning night adventure.

8. Pambula River Kayaking Tour

Offering a 3-hour guided adventure, this tour showcases the pristine waters of Pambula River and Broadwater. For $143.45, you paddle through Beowa National Park, with stops for morning tea and swimming. The guides are experts at spotting birdlife like pelicans, sea eagles, and herons. Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides and picturesque scenery, making it a top choice for nature lovers and beginner paddlers.

Bottom Line: An enriching, scenic paddle that’s suitable for all skill levels, with plenty of wildlife and relaxation.

9. Sydney and Blue Mountains in One Day Private Tour

If you’re pressed for time but want a comprehensive experience, this private 10-11 hour tour ticks all the boxes. For $630, you’ll see the Blue Mountains’ iconic Three Sisters and Scenic World plus Sydney’s highlights like Bondi Beach. The tour includes personalized stops and expert commentary, making it ideal for those wanting an in-depth look without the hassle of planning.

Bottom Line: A premium, all-in-one day trip best suited for travelers who value comfort and want to see both city and mountain highlights in one go.

10. Hunter Gleann Private Tour – Indulgence Full Day Wine Tour

For those seeking a luxurious private experience, this 6-hour tour offers tailored visits to boutique wineries with tastings and optional lunch. Priced at $219.63, it’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a flexible, intimate day. Many reviewers mention the personalized service and the ability to choose wineries, making it a bespoke wine experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers who want control over their itinerary and a private, relaxed atmosphere.

11. Self Guide E Bike Tour – Husk Distillery, Rainforest & Rail Trail

This self-guided tour combines cycling through the Tweed hinterland with stops at Husk Distillery and rainforest scenic spots. For $128.39, you receive an e-bike, gear, and a smartphone app guiding your adventure. It’s perfect for those who want independence but with all the essentials in place. Reviews mention how easy and enjoyable the ride is, even for beginners.

Bottom Line: A flexible, active day suited for adventurous spirits wanting a mix of rainforest, river, and distillery.

12. Self Guided E Bike Tour – Unicorn Falls, Rainforest & Rail Trail

For a full-day exploration, this tour focuses on the scenic Northern Rivers Rail Trail and surrounding sites like Unicorn Falls. At $114.04, it provides an e-bike, maps, and stops at waterfalls and old railway tunnels. Riders love the ease of riding uphill, and the chance to see waterfalls, bushland, and quaint villages.

Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting a scenic, nature-focused day with the freedom to explore at their own pace.

13. Shire Shuttle Bus’s Shoalhaven Coast Wine Tour

For a relaxed day in the countryside, this full-day bus tour visits 2-3 wineries along the Illawarra coast. At $157.79, it includes wine tastings, lunch, and scenic stops like Berry. The convenience of round-trip transportation from Sydney makes it ideal for those who dislike driving but still want to experience the region’s wines.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts who prefer a no-stress day with scenic drives and guided tastings.

14. 5hr Eden Tour in Nature; Beach, Lookout & National Park

This nature-focused half-day trip is ideal for cruise passengers wanting a quick but enriching experience. For $215.17, you’ll explore Eden’s pinnacles, beaches, and scenic lookouts, including Ben Boyd Tower and Davidson Whaling Station. The tour emphasizes wildlife spotting, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning landscapes.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic tour perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Eden’s natural beauty.

15. 2 Hour Highlights of Eden Tour

Lastly, this short but sweet tour offers a snapshot of Eden’s highlights in about two hours. For $107.59, you’ll visit Eden Rotary Park, Pinnacles Beach, and Quarantine Bay. Many reviews mention the informative narration and personalized attention, making it a good choice for cruise travelers wanting a quick, insightful overview.

Bottom Line: An excellent way to see Eden’s key sights without spending a whole day, ideal for tight schedules.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting a tour in New South Wales, consider your budget, interests, and time availability. For wildlife lovers, the Humpback Whale Encounter offers unforgettable marine encounters. Foodies should look at the Tastes of the Hunter, while adventure seekers might enjoy the self-guided e-bike trips on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. For a full experience, the Sydney and Blue Mountains private tour delivers a comprehensive day in one of Australia’s most iconic regions.

If you prefer a more relaxed day, wine tours like the Shoalhaven Coast Wine Tour or the private Hunter Gleann Wine Tour might be best. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

New South Wales offers an impressive variety of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. Whether you want the thrill of whale watching, the serenity of coastal kayaking, or the indulgence of wine tasting, this list has something for you. The Humpback Whale Encounter and Tastes of the Hunter are standout options for their quality and value. For those craving a flexible, self-guided adventure, the e-bike tours provide a perfect mix of independence and scenic beauty.

No matter which experience you choose, booking early and planning around regional timing—like whale migration or harvest seasons—will help you make the most of your trip. These tours make exploring New South Wales easy, fun, and full of authentic moments. Happy exploring!