woman taking a selfie at sydney mardi-gras parade

Each year, Sydney host’s the world’s largest and vibrant Gay, Lesbian and Trans pride festival, The Sydney Mardi Gras. A festival with historic roots dating back to the 1970’s which has now become an event recognized on a global scale, and pre-covid would attract nearly 500,000 attendants from Australia and around the world to experience the empowering festival right here in the city of Sydney.

Starting on the 18th of February and running until March 6th, Sydney’s two-week festival is packed with events from the Laugh Out Proud at the Enmore Theatre, Fair Day at Victoria Park, Laneway in Surrey Hills, and all wrapping up with the infamous Sydney Mardi Gras Gay and Lesbian Parade at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). For a full list of events and details please visit the official Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras page.

But why do I need a Sydney rental car?

Great question, it really depends on the length of your trip and what you plan on doing. Commonly, Sydney Mardi Gras can turn into a one or two-week holiday and to get the most out of your trip it’s never a bad idea to hire a car from Sydney Airport (especially if you’re flying to Sydney). Not only does Sydney car hire provide you with convenient access to all the events around the city over the two-week period, but it also gives you ample opportunity to get out of the city on some day trips in between all the festivities.

Call your friends, pack your bags, and get ready for your best Mardi Gras yet.

We’ve done the research for you and put together a list of Sydney’s Best Day Trips that are made easy with a car hire from Sydney’s Airport. So sit back, relax, and plan your fabulous week of outfits while we let you in on some Sydneysider secrets.

Palm Beach

Sydney Rental Car Travel Time: 50Minutes

Transit Travel Time: 2.5Hours

Located at the tip of the Northern Beaches, Palm Beach is known for its iconic lookout that overlooks the Tasman Sea, Broken Bay, and Pittwater. Aside from the glorious beaches and breath-taking views, hidden within Palm Beach are some great spots to enjoy lunch or get your niche holiday shopping fix. We recommend lunch at the BarrenJoey House to slow down, refuel and enjoy the views as you indulge on the water. Close enough to the City to spend the afternoon at but far enough away to feel hidden away in a tropical oasis.

view of palm beach sydney with lighthouse and bay visible

Bundeena & Royal National Park

Sydney Car Hire Travel Time: 1Hour

Transit Travel Time: 1.5 – 3Hours (depending on schedule)

We hope you packed some active wear; you’re going to want it for this stop. Hidden away within the Royal National Park the small village of Bundeena is the perfect hub to access the infamous Royal National Park Coastal Track. With trail loops ranging from 45 minutes, 1.5hours, to 3hours+ there is no shortage of options for all fitness levels. If hiking isn’t your thing, Bundeena is host to the wonderful Driftwood Café and Café Manna where you can re-set after a night full of Mardi Gras festivities. Not to mention the drive in your rental car from Sydney through the national park is an adventure within itself.

royal national park hikers

Little Bay/La Perouse

Sydney Rental Car Travel Time: 20Minutes

Transit Travel Time: 1Hour

This stop is a sneaky little two for one! A little closer to home, Little Bay and the La Perouse National Park are perfect distance for enjoying an afternoon at the beach followed by lunch and leisurely walk around the iconic coastline. Living up to its name, Little Bay is nestled away in Sydney’s coastline, isolated from the waves and large crowds, the crystal-clear water is perfect for snorkeling. A short 5 minute drive is The Boatshead in La Perouse for a sea-side lunch or dinner.

wooden walkway connecting two islands

Avoca Beach

Sydney Car Hire Travel Time: 1.5Hours

Transit Travel Time: 2.5Hours from Central Station

Last but my no means least is Avoca Beach. This destination is worthy of an overnight trip, and is doable within a day, however 2 nights is the sweet spot if you’re looking for a change of scenery. Often referred to as the Byron Bay of the Central Coast, Avoca Beach is home to great surf along a town centre bustling vibrant cafés, night life, and a boutique shopping scene. Spending the day at the beach, enjoy a woodfire pizza at Shady Palms and cap the night off with a movie at the historic Avoca Beach Theatre.

woman sitting at a beach pathway

That’s it, that’s all.

If you’re looking to extend your holiday and explore a little more, there is no shortage of events to enjoy throughout the city and beyond – without taking away from the magnificently historic event that is the infamous Sydney Mardi Gras.

sydney mardi gras parade