If you’re looking for a scenic road trip to a location not swarming with tourists but still close to the action, look no further than Yamba. Three and a half hours south of Brisbane or seven and a half hours north of Sydney, Yamba and its surrounding regions offer good food, great scenery, and wonderful highlights of the east coast.

Part country town, part laidback beach village, the sleepy Far South Coast enclave of Merimbula really is the best of both worlds.

Look beyond Port Macquarie’s apparent natural charms – the beaches, rainforest and koalas – and you’ll find a foodie paradise.

The newly cosmopolitan Perth has become a buzzing destination for foodies and culture vultures.

This golden stretch of city and sand 80km from Brisbane boasts skyscrapers and surf, markets and music as well as countless ways to dip in.

Head off the beaten track to Ballina, a town filled with cultural, heritage, artistic and many other attractions.

The inland city of Dubbo is a perfect family holiday destination complete with a fascinating history, natural attractions and good food.

Follow the rolling green hills to the towns of Berry and Nowra on the NSW South Coast for a relaxing and rewarding weekend getaway.

A mere 50km south of Sydney, with beautiful beaches, unspoiled bushland and a relaxed lifestyle, here is what to do in Wollongong.