11/10/2024
The Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive, often called the Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive or Grand Pacific Drive (depending on the route), is one of the most scenic road trips in Australia. The route takes you along the stunning southeast coast, showcasing national parks, beaches, quaint towns, and wildlife. Here's a general guide and highlights of the trip:
Overview:
- Distance Approximately 1,316 kilometres (818 miles)
- Duration: 2–5 days depending on pace and stops
- Best time to visit: Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) for mild weather.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory (approx. 220 km / 3 hrs)
- Highlights:
- Phillip Island: Famous for its penguin parade.
- Wilsons Promontory National Park: Beautiful hikes, wildlife (kangaroos, emus, wombats), and beaches. Enjoy hikes like Mount Oberon for panoramic views.
Day 2: Wilsons Promontory to Lakes Entrance (approx. 230 km / 3 hrs)
- Highlights:
- Tarra-Bulga National Park: Rainforests, waterfalls, and tree ferns.
- Lakes Entrance: Known for its lakes, beaches, and seafood. Take a boat cruise or walk across the footbridge to the 90-Mile Beach.
Day 3: Lakes Entrance to Merimbula (approx. 260 km / 3.5 hrs)
- Highlights:
- Cape Conran Coastal Park: Rugged coastline and wildlife.
- Croajingolong National Park: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with pristine wilderness.
- Mallacoota: Small town with a relaxed vibe, ideal for water sports and fishing.
- Merimbula: Coastal town famous for beaches, whale watching (in season), and oysters.
Day 4: Merimbula to Jervis Bay (approx. 300 km / 4 hrs)
- Highlights:
- Bega: Try the famous Bega cheese.
- Bermagui: Visit the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool.
- Batemans Bay: Great spot for seafood and river cruises.
- Jervis Bay: Stunning beaches with some of the whitest sands in the world, particularly Hyams Beach. Dolphin watching is popular.
Day 5: Jervis Bay to Sydney (approx. 200 km / 3 hrs)
- Highlights:
- Kiama Blowhole: Natural blowhole creating powerful water jets.
- Sea Cliff Bridge: A beautiful coastal drive on a bridge suspended over the ocean.
- Royal National Park: Australia’s oldest national park, great for bushwalking and secluded beaches.
- Stanwell Tops: A scenic lookout for views over the coastline.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for kangaroos and koalas, especially in national parks.
- Fuel: While major towns have fuel stations, some stretches can be remote, so fill up whenever possible.
- Safety: Watch for wildlife on roads, particularly at dawn and dusk.
