Hmmm where should we go or what should we do today... sound familiar? These questions are often asked in friendship groups around the weekend and holiday time off periods. No one ever has any suggestions other than lets head to the beach or lets get food, doesn't it get repetitive? Not that there's anything wrong with the beach and food (two of my favorite hobbies ever) but lets get out and mix it up, in a sense pack the car up, grab your mates and find your adventurous side.
I myself thrive off of day trips (adventures) to unique hidden gems, so I thought I'd share some locations with you all that'll inspire the adventurous demon inside you. So lift your feet, what are you waiting for?!
Bexhill Quarry
Location: Town Of Bexhill NSW
Access: Look For A Bus Stop On Bungalow Road, Short 200m Walk To Quarry
Best When: Sunny Clear Skies
Located south of Ballina, Bexhill Quarry is a decent 1.5 hours drive from the Gold Coast. What attracts adventurers to the quarry is its stunning cobalt blue water colour (simply stunning in person). Although the same recurring question always arises: "Are you allowed to swim in the quarry?". Look, your body can consume higher ph levels through food and drinks than what's in this quarry, just don't put your head under to be safe :)
Recommendations: Wear enclosed shoes as the ground is a little rough.
Eltham Abandoned Railway
Location: Eltham Road NSW, 2480
Access: Find A Roundabout Along Eltham Road, Next To A Tennis Court
Best When: Clear Sunny Skies, Go With Someone
There's something unique and somewhat mysterious about this old abandoned overgrown railway line. If you have never set foot on a railway track then the town of Eltham is certainly going on the to do list. The bridge itself really has that perfect Instagram snapshot look to it, so get artistic with your camera and experiment :) Alternatively if you follow the railroad behind the tennis courts theres a tunnel you must check out as well.
Recommendations: Wear enclosed shoes if you don't trust yourself in thongs or any other type of footwear.
Byron Bay Shipwreck
Location: Byron Bay, NSW
Access: Beach Front, Opposite The Town Pool
Best When: Clear Sunny Skies and Calm Surf Conditions
The Byron Bay shipwreck is simply stunning especially if you can get your hands on a snorkelling set on the way or whilst you're down in Byron. Not many people new to the area or passing by will notice the wreck at first so the place is never really that crowded, unless you have to dodge a few surfers on the way out trying to catch the small shore breaks. Other than that the wreck is most visible on clear sunny days and it is recommended that you take to the water only when the sea is calm (less that 1 ft in wave height would be ideal).
Recommendations: Try to locate a pair of reef shoes as the wreck has sharp barnacles everywhere.
Mount Warning
Location: Wollumbin National Park, Mount Warning Road
Access: Car Park at the End of Mount Warning Road, Then the Hike Begins
Best When: Arrive At Summit Before Sunrise
When Mother Nature turns on, this is arguably one of the best views on the east side of Australia. The simple breath taking, Mt Warning. On a cool crisp morning watching the sun rise over the distant ocean 1,156m above sea level, you'll think you're in heaven or if not something bloody close enough. The hike is a solid 2 hours or so each way, so make sure you pack plenty of water and snacks as the gradual incline will most certainly showcase your physical fitness.
Recommendations: Wear comfortable walking shoes and pack plenty of water and snacks.
Killen Falls
Location: Killen Falls Rd, NSW
Access: Park at the end of Killen Falls Rd, Short 500m walk
Best When: After Heavy Storm
Don't go chasing waterfalls they say, please stick to the rivers and the lakes...... I dare you you to take the waterfall path you'll thank me later. What a beautiful sight you'll come across after you hear the sounds of gushing water in the distance as you pull up in the carpark. This hotspot is one of the most desired destinations on a hot summers day, so make sure you arrive early if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy this magnificent sight Mother Nature has to offer (or just go in winter).
Recommendations: Wear closed in shoes - very rocky/ slippery.
