Toowoon Bay accommodation from AU$100

The main beach is patrolled and great for swimming, so bring your swimsuit and come enjoy the water. With plenty of space to stretch out on the sand you can easily find a great spot to work on your tan. Love to surf? Come and ride one of Australia's best breaks at Shelly Beach, which is tucked just around the corner of the headland. Watch the experts show off their skills, or grab a board and catch a wave yourself. As the wind picks up, sailboarders and kite-surfers take advantage of the conditions, so why not try learning one of these fun sports at a school by the beach.

Prefer fishing? Hire a kayak and chase flathead, whiting and bream in the lakes, while the boatshed near the bridge is always good for blackfish. In the right season you can catch jewfish and tailor in the surf - all you need to bring is your rod. Swaddling Reserve is a fantastic spot for a picnic lunch. There's lots of green grass and space for a game of cricket or to throw a frisbee around. Love golf? The Tuggerah Lakes course is right next door, so bring your clubs and enjoy a peaceful morning round. In the lakes you can also water ski, canoe, sail and row, so there is plenty to keep you occupied on your next holiday!

Outside of town the Ken Duncan Gallery highlights wonderful natural photography, or visit St Fiacre's Distillery and taste home grown Australian liqueur. Drive out to the Norah Head Lighthouse because it's fun to climb, and is a great spot for awesome views of the coast. Get up close with native animals in the Australian Reptile Park, which is a hands-on zoo that delivers awesome wildlife shows and the chance to get great photos with some fantastic animals. For souvenirs, you have to stop in at Two Birds Gallery. It's a quaint boutique cafe offering unique artwork, jewellery and giftware that is unlike anything you can find anywhere else.

This really is the perfect location for a quick getaway. You'll be relaxing in your Toowoon Bay accommodation after only a short 90 minute drive from Sydney's CBD. With a fantastic beach, lots of great activities and all the comforts of the city, you're all set for a wonderful holiday on the coast. Why don't you book it today and start planning your next vacation?

Image credit Anonymous Dissident