road trip melbourne to narooma

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Melbourne to Narooma drive

Melbourne to narooma road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Melbourne to Narooma. If you're planning a road trip to Narooma, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Melbourne drive for about 2 hours

12:54 pm   Traralgon stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:54 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from Lakes Entrance drive for about 3 hours

1:58 pm   Merimbula stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:58 pm drive for about 1 hour

4:01 pm  arrive in Narooma

day 2 driving ≈ 4 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Traralgon   (2 answers)     questions about Traralgon:         What is your favorite restaurant in Traralgon? Lakes Entrance   (5 answers) Merimbula   (2 answers)

What are some things to do in Narooma?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Narooma.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Narooma to Melbourne drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Melbourne to Narooma . Or get a full Melbourne to Narooma flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Melbourne well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Melbourne!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Melbourne to Narooma

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Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, nine coastal towns you should visit on a road trip from melbourne to sydney.

Head to a killer whale museum, eat seafood by the sea, check out 270-million-year-old fossils and see the world's largest blowhole.

If you want to really get to know a part of the country, you need to spend time in it. You need to drive along its streets, walk along its paths, check out its shops, restaurants and other attractions, and gaze at its views. That's why hitting the coastal highway to venture from Melbourne to Sydney is a great vacay option.

Instead of hopping on a flight to the harbour city, take the scenic route, break up your journey with swims and sightseeing, meet the locals and scope out new favourite places you wouldn't have otherwise visited. You'll also be sharing some love with New South Wales' regional areas, that've had a tough past year for a number of reasons.

To help plan your ultimate driving route from Melbourne to Sydney, here are nine top-notch coastal pit stops to make along the way. Yes, you'll want to bring your bathers — and make sure your phone is charged so you can snap plenty of pictures.

Please stay up to date with the latest  NSW Government  health advice regarding COVID-19.

Killer Whale Museum, Claudine Thornton, Destination NSW

WANDER THROUGH A KILLER WHALE MUSEUM IN EDEN

Your first port of call once you've crossed the Victorian-New South Wales border: the harbourside town of Eden. It's NSW's most southerly town, and it's gorgeous. Given its location, Eden isn't short of beaches — although if you only have time to visit one, make it Long Beach . Being surrounded by the 65-million-year-old Pinnacles is impossible to pass up, after all.

The town is renowned for whale watching between May and November. But if you miss them, check out the Eden Killer Whale Museum . Inside you'll find displays dedicated to the titular sea creature, obviously, as well as to the town. To experience the town on two feet, and to soak in its history, hitting up the Eden Heritage Walk is also a must.

Then, when you're feeling peckish, tucking into some seafood is in order. It's hard to escape the urge to eat the ocean's finest while you're right by the water, so heading to the Seahorse Inn or the Coast Bar & Grill at Eden Fishermen's Recreation Club is highly recommended.

Bar Beach, Merimbula, Destination NSW

GO ON A BEACH HOP IN MERIMBULA

This itinerary will take you along NSW's coastline, which means spectacular beaches are bountiful. Case in point: Merimbula, located on the state's Sapphire Coast, has 13 . It also boasts two lakes, should you feel like a stint of sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. If you'd like to engage with the region without actually getting wet, Merimbula has plenty of options. Well, depending on which attractions you decide to hop on, Magic Mountain will still see you splashing around — however, you can also try your hand at the amusement park's Tree Climb Challenge, which includes rope bridges, high wires and wooden obstacles.

Mosey on over to Merimbula Aquarium , and you'll be able to peer into 28 tanks filled with local and tropical marine life, and also eat at the on-site restaurant, which has 180-degree water views. For those especially keen on scoping out nature, get in contact with Tiny Zoo . You can't actually visit it, but this conservation-focused organisation does host pop-ups around the place, so you can get up close to a central bearded dragon, a spinifex hopping mouse and a tawny frogmouth. Oh, and don't leave without slurping down some gourmet oysters — the area is lauded for them. Captain Sponge's Magical Oyster Tours lets you try them freshly shucked from Pambula Lake.

Dee Kramer, Destination NSW

TAKE A DIP IN BERMAGUI'S FAMOUS BLUE POOL

Another gem on the Sapphire Coast, Bermagui is one of those best of both worlds-type places. Mount Gulaga rises behind it, while the ocean sprawls in front of it — so you're genuinely spoilt for choice. Both terrains feature some of the town's must-visit spots, too. At the latter, you'll find the famed   Blue Pool . An ocean rock pool set beneath the cliffs, it's as striking to look at as it is to take a dip in. Or, head over to the Montreal Goldfield . Dating back to the 1880s, it's Australia's only seaside goldfield, with almost 250 kilograms of the precious metal found there in a four-year period. To scope it out and immerse yourself in a big slice of history, you'll need to book a tour.

As for grabbing a bite and a beverage, the Bermagui Beach Hotel , near the iconic Horseshoe Bay, can take care of both. For everything from seafood and gelato to Italian- and Asian-style cuisines, the Bermagui Fishermen's Wharf  has you covered. Local bakery Honorbread is also worth a visit, as is Eastwood's of Bermagui , which serves Ona coffee, cakes, take-home meals and also functions as a cooking school and pop-up events space.

Montague Island, Tom Park, Destination NSW

SPEND THE NIGHT IN A LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER'S COTTAGE ON MONTAGUE ISLAND

Here, in Narooma, you can snorkel with seals  and tour a lighthouse that dates back 140 years. You'll have to book in for a guided tour to be allowed access, though. And, if you're after somewhere different to bunker down for the night (and to feel like you're living in Round the Twist ), you can stay in a lighthouse keeper's cottage .

Another must-visit in Narooma is Montague Island , a nature reserve where you can see penguins, dolphins, whales and more than 90 bird species. And there's only one place on your journey that features a rock that looks like Australia. Australia Rock has a hole in the middle of it that resembles the same shape of this nation we call home — and you can peer through it to the ocean.

The Narooma Lighthouse Museum also awaits, as does the 350-metre-long Mill Bay Boardwalk for a leisurely stroll. For a snack, Rolf's Patisserie delivers just the kind of small-town bakery bites your tastebuds hanker for on a road trip, while making a stop in Tilba before heading into town will let you hit up the ABC Cheese Factory .

Wray Street Oyster Shed, Jason Ierace, Destination NSW

SLURP FRESHLY SHUCKED OYSTERS IN BATEMANS BAY

Batemans Bay might just be the best-known stopover on your road trip — so it's worth finding out why. Located where the Clyde River meets the ocean, it's an area lauded for its tasty oysters. Yes, you now know what you should be eating here, including from five-decade-old The Boatshed and Wray Street Oyster Shed . The Pearly Oyster Bar and JJ's at the Marina will also tempt your seafood-loving tastebuds, as will Region X's oyster tasting kayak tour .

Meanwhile, Batemans Bay Ice Creamery has been scooping up the ideal waterside dessert for over 42 years. You can also treat yourself to a scenic picnic at Observation Point , which looks out over Snapper Island, or have a barbecue after seeing the critters at Birdland Animal Park .

Fancy a dip? Pack your goggles and snorkel, because Batemans Bay is home to an impressive snorkelling trail . And if you'd like to turn your pit stop into a lengthier stay, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has a beachside cabin in Murramarang National Park , just 30 minutes out of town, that you can hire out.

HUNT FOR FOSSILS IN ULLADULLA

By now, you know what to seek out in a coastal town. Lighthouses, seafood, beaches, spectacular views — they're all on the list. Ulladulla in the Shoalhaven local government area, around 230 kilometres south of Sydney, boasts them all, too. It's also a great spot for fossils, with a wander along the Gondwana Coast Fossil Walk proving a real treat while you're in the area. Here, you'll get a blast from the past dating back 270 million years, because that's how old some of the fossils are. To delve into the region's Indigenous history, opt for the Coomee Nulunga Cultural Trail , led by the local Aboriginal community. If looking at native plants is more your style, you can also mosey along the bush track at the Ulladulla Wildflower Reserve .

All that walking is certain to make you hungry, and we suggest going either hearty or upscale. In the first category, Hayden's Pies serves up chunky pies filled with everything from butter chicken with mint yoghurt to steak in green peppercorn sauce. Or, treat yourself to a meal at Rick Stein at Bannisters in the neighbouring town of Mollymook.

Dee Kramer Photography, Destination NSW

ENJOY THE STUNNING BEACHES IN JERVIS BAY

There's no mistaking Jervis Bay 's beaches for any others in the region. The sands are quite the shade of white, and the clear waters that lap up against them are just as striking. So, the number one thing on your agenda during this stopover: dipping your feet in both those glimmering grains and the ocean. Head to Booderee National Park , and you'll be in the ideal spot. For scuba diving, snorkelling, swimming and surfing, however, the Jervis Bay Marine Park is your go-to. History buffs should make a date with the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum and Gallery , which features a mangrove boardwalk along Currambene Creek, plus picnic and barbecue facilities.

Food- and drink-wise, Gunyah at Paperbark Camp in Woollamia is a highlight (and if you're looking for somewhere to check-in for the night, there are 13 canvas safari-style tents on-site). Pilgrims Vegetarian Cafe has an eatery at Huskisson, and you'll find Jervis Bay Brewing Co in the vicinity, too.

Kiama Blowhole, Tim Clark, Destination NSW

CHECK OUT THE WORLD'S BIGGEST BLOWHOLE IN KIAMA

Mention the name Kiama, and the word 'blowhole' should immediately pop into your head. The Illawarra town is famous for them and nestled underneath the 133-year-old Kiama Lighthouse  is the world's largest. If that isn't impressive enough, the Kiama Blowhole can blast water up to 30 metres into the air (and yes, it makes a sound when it does so). There's also the Little Blowhole , about two kilometres out of town, should visiting one oceanside place that rockets H2O into the sky not be enough. After a different kind of fun? You'll have to head inland a little, but Jamberoo Action Park is also in the area. Rides, slides, chairlifts, mini golf: it's all on offer.

Back in Kiama itself, you can scope out the historic terrace houses that've been around since 1886 while trotting along the Kiama Heritage Walk . Then, grab a bite from Diggies right next to the main blowhole, or from Penny Whistlers by the harbour. From the former, you must order the cod-filled Blowhole Burger — when in Kiama, and all that.

Bulli Rockpool, Dee Kramer, Destination NSW

RIDE SOME WAVES AT ONE OF BULLI'S PICTURESQUE BEACHES

By the time you make it to Bulli, you'll know that Sydney isn't far away. It's located just 70 kilometres south of the big smoke and 11 kilometres north of Wollongong — but everyone could use one last stop on the home stretch. First up: enjoy a swim at the beach , or in the beachside ocean pool. If you have a surfboard strapped to the roof of your car, you're in a great spot to give it a whirl. Or, if you take the 850-metre walk up to Sublime Point Lookout , you'll actually peer down over 17 beaches (as well as rainforest). Because small-town pubs with history are an unparalleled delight, Bulli's Heritage Hotel is worth a visit, especially if you like burgers. Built in 1889, it's on the State Heritage Register, in fact. And if you're the kind of person who likes the sea, but also can't spend enough time surrounded by plants, you're going to want to add the Illawarra Grevillea Park to your must-visit list — just check when it's next hosting open days first.

Start planning your great escape to New South Wales this season by visiting the  Visit NSW website .

Top image: Bulli Rockpool, Destination NSW

'House of the Dragon' Season Two Has Unveiled Duelling Trailers Ahead of the 'Game of Thrones' Prequel's June Return

The juice is loose again in the first trailer for 36-years-later sequel 'beetlejuice beetlejuice', ali wong's first-ever stand-up tour down under has added extra shows due to demand, make a couch date with aaron falk: 'force of nature: the dry 2' has been fast-tracked to digital , it's time to get emotional: pixar's full trailer for 'inside out 2' is here with ayo edebiri as envy.

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Sapphire coast road trip – narooma, montague island, and fresh mtb trails.

As a creative Brody loves to showcases the natural world that we live in, he has a passion for telling stories of outdoor adventure and tales of wild ones. Based in Torquay, Australia Brody has access to some of the world’s most picturesque coastlines, showing their natural wonders through adventurous photographs.

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This road trip from Torquay in VIC to Narooma, NSW takes in the stunning beaches along the Sapphire Coast, heads to epic trails in what’s soon to be a NSW MTB hotspots, and journeys by boat to magical Barunguba / Montague Island. 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Yuin Nation, the traditional Country of the Yuin people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

• Swimming with seals, turtles, and fish on Barunguba / Montague Island
• Mountain biking some of the most flowy trails we’ve ever ridden
• Mouth-watering seafood everywhere!
• Stumbling upon Ben Boyd National Park and the insane hiking trails including the Light-to-Light

Day 1 – Torquay, VIC – Saltwater Creek, NSW

Duration: 7.5 hours Distance: 652km

We ventured around Melbourne and towards the NSW border via the Gippsland Hwy. Driving through the coastal mountains with burnt trees from the previous bushfires on either side of the road, then winding into valleys of lush green fields. We even drove past an alpine dingo out for a stroll in the late evening. 

Jess and I were after a relaxed, mountain biking adventure where we’d visit a small coastal fishing town I used to stay at as a kid.

During the drive we made a last-minute decision to drive an extra two hours and stop in at a place called Saltwater Creek. We’d never been there before but had heard of a little beach camp situated on the VIC/NSW border full of secret coves and hikes.

Heading to Narooma from Sydney? Read more: Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Road Trip

Day 2 – Saltwater Creek – Narooma via Eden

Duration: 2 hours Distance: 162km

As the sun rose, the crisp morning revealed itself at the Saltwater Creek campground , we strolled down to the jagged rocks where Saltwater Creek meets the ocean to have our morning coffee on the beach. I put on my Merino Fusion 160 Wilderness Wear hoodie to stay toasty and comfortable while we walked. 

The info signs back at camp showed that there are several epic hikes in the area and also told the story of the Yuin Country where Ben Boyd is situated, and the Traditional Custodians used to fish and hunt. There are current talks with the local Elders to rename Ben Boyd National Park to a traditional Indigenous name.

We jumped back into the car and set our direction to Narooma, with a small stop over in Eden.

Eden’s a town like many along the Sapphire Coast, rich in Aboriginal history – the coastline has some of the most sacred Indigenous sites in southern NSW. 

One of Eden’s most talked about characters is an orca whale known as ‘Old Tom’. After the local Yuin people who were employed on whaling ships refused to kill the orcas, Old Tom, along with his pod, would actually help the boat crew herd Baleen whales into Twofold Bay in return for prized pieces of their carcasses. Crazy!

After we finished at the Port of Eden we swung past the main street for $9 bacon and egg rolls along with a coffee. 

We finished the short drive up to Narooma where we drove down to Wagonga Inlet and looked around town before checking into Beachfront Camping and Cottages Narooma for a chill afternoon by the pool.

Day 3 – Narooma

Distance: 0km!

Nothing beats sleeping in on a holiday. We woke up to the sun peaking through our swag and the sound of waves crashing on the beach behind our heads. The caravan park was full to the brim with holiday goers and nomads getting away for their NYE holidays, but it never felt busy or crowded. 

After breakfast we made a plan to seek out Narooma’s mountain biking trails.

We drove up into the lush green hills behind Narooma with the mountain bikes on the back of the 4WD to one of the two trailheads and began to get amped up to drop in (only one of the trail heads needs a 4WD to access). 

Feeling fresh with our new Wilderness Wear merino socks and my Cool Merino 155 Tee , we felt quick, like nobody could stop us slashing through the kilometres of flowing mountain bike trails. 

We spoke with a resident rider about how much work had been put into the trails from the locals along with the crew at the local bike shop. The trails have received close to $4 million dollars in grants with the Narooma Mountain Bike Club set to build 70km of brand new trails. 

We can’t wait to come back and ride the new trails once they’re built, alongside another 60km of trails proposed for Eden. Narooma, in our opinion, is just about to become a mountain biking mecca!

Day 4 – Barunguba / Montague Island

Distance: 9km boat ride with Island Charters Narooma

Cruising down to the harbour for a 12.30pm launch of the boat we met our captain and owner of the Island Charters Narooma . Full of energy with a big boat full of passengers we set sail towards the extinct volcano known as Barunguba / Montague Island.  

Known for many things over the years, Barunguba is now a marine haven for seals, birdlife and also a breeding ground for Grey Nurse sharks. While taking the Eco Island Tour with NSW Parks we learned that a section of the island has a huge significance for the Yuin people, as it’s a sacred place for young men’s initiation. 

We continued to tour around the island with our guide absorbing all the history before being picked back up by our boat. We then cruised around the point to jump into the water for a dive with a few very curious seals, I even spotted a sea turtle swimming along in the depths. 

The 9km trip over to the island is a must-do if you ever want to learn about the island’s Aboriginal history, bird life, and sea life, or want the thrill of snorkelling with seals or scuba diving to the depths and seeing the vastness of Barunguba’s marine life.

Back on dry land in Narooma after several hours on the boat we managed to score a booking at the Quarterdeck . We had an amazing tiki-inspired cocktail followed by fish tacos and ceviche on the water’s edge of the Wagonga Inlet while the sun went down. We then walked down the boardwalk to get some delicious ice cream to cap off a brilliant day.

Day 5 – Narooma

Distance: 0km

On our last full day in Narooma, we decided to make the most of the epic sunshine and spend the day at the beach relaxing. We grabbed our snorkels, and fishing rods knowing full-well that we’d never catch a fish (years of practice and still nothing!). 

We ventured down to a cove by the Wagonga Inlet and found a spot on the sand under the warm Australian sun and just relaxed, snorkelled and fished.

There’s no shortage of marine life in the lakes and inlets of Narooma with everyone giving their best shot at reeling in a big fish or two. But if you’re like me you can always go to the fishmonger and grab some fresh oysters, squid or fish and cook up a storm for yourself at camp like we did. 

We went to the local fishmonger in town next to the main roundabout and discovered that he and his family had been selling fish in Narooma for almost 120 years!

Day 6 – Narooma, NSW – Golden Beach, VIC

Duration: 6 hours Distance: 510 km

With a pretty large drive ahead of us we packed up our stuff early and hit the road to stop in Bermagui for a ride of their mountain bike park, again. Luckily my Wilderness Wear merino socks and t-shirt didn’t even smell!

The trails were long with sweeping turns, but as the day began to heat up we decided to finish up and head for a quick dip in the Bermagui Blue Pool .

The Blue Pool made a list of the top 10 places to swim worldwide and you can easily understand why. The crystal clear, clean water that fills the man-made swimming pool was fresh enough to take your breath away, just like its gorgeous backdrop; a few seals thought it was the place to be too!

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes

After cooling down and drying off after our ocean fix we jumped back into the car and drove down to get some fresh fish, oysters, and chips in the marina before driving the rest of the way to Golden Beach.

Day 7 – Golden Beach – Torquay

Duration: 4 hours 15 minutes Distance: 350km

We set the alarm early to get up for a sunrise mission on the beach, seeing as it was our last day of holidays. As we watched the sun come up we were stoked reflecting on the trip we’d just had. 

Now, feeling refreshed and renewed, we felt like the holiday had the best mix of relaxation, with enough epic adventures in the mix. Happy and content with our holiday we jumped in the car and drove the final few hours home.

Essential Gear

• Mountain bikes
• Mountain biking clothes ( Wilderness Wear is a good shout!)
• Fishing rod
• Good hiking shoes

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Melbourne to Sydney drive: the ultimate guide

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The Sapphire Coast, the Oyster Coast, Gippsland, Princes Highway. The scenic Melbourne to Sydney drive… call it what you will, but this often overlooked stretch of coastline has been one of our favorite things to do in Australia (so far, at least). In our five relaxing days (four nights), we saw more wildlife than we could ever imagine, caught views of postcard-perfect scenes without another soul in sight and swam in crystal clear waters.

The distance between Sydney and Melbourne is nearly 1000km, so even with the better part of a week we couldn’t hit nearly everything there is to do. But we definitely succeeded in getting a flavor of the many activities available on the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive. Read on to start your own journey with our Melbourne to Sydney roadtrip planner!

We booked all of our accommodations as we went, giving us the flexibility to see how far we got each day. If you can manage it, I recommend doing the same! Booking.com makes it very easy to snag last-minute rooms at all price ranges. Read more money-saving tips for booking.com .

Two essentials before we get started: – Grab a great deal on a rental car – Make sure you have travel insurance lined up in case anything goes wrong

Melbourne to Sydney roadtrip itinerary

Here’s a quick summary of our Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive in 5 days:

• Day 1: Melbourne to Lakes Entrance and Gippsland Lakes
• Day 2: Lakes Entrance to Eden
• Day 3: Ben Boyd National Park to Narooma
• Day 4: Narooma to Murramarang
• Day 5: Murramarang to Sydney

I’ll present the drive as we did it, beginning in Melbourne and ending near Sydney. You could just as easily do the route in the other direction as a Sydney to Melbourne drive! There are a few great things to do for which we just didn’t have time, and I’ll point them out along the way – if you have a full week, you can do even more! I’m sure there are other amazing sites along the way that I’ve missed. Our Melbourne to Sydney drive time was approximately 12 hours, so you can plan your pace accordingly depending on your choice of activities and how much driving you want to do each day.

When you’re starting in Melbourne, don’t miss these great family-friendly activities ! If you happen to be there for New Years Eve, check out these great kid-friendly restaurants and fireworks .

Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive map:

Read more: See how this itinerary fits into your best Australia itinerary options

Day 1: Melbourne to Lakes Entrance and Gippsland Lakes (3h15m)

The first day’s drive, from Melbourne to Bairnsdale or Lakes Entrance, will take a little over three hours depending on exactly where you choose to stay the night. The most direct route takes you inland through some areas that, frankly, aren’t especially scenic. If you’d prefer a more scenic route and you get a very early start from Melbourne – which we didn’t, head down the coast to Wilson’s Promontory National Park. It’s a special place to many Victorian’s thanks to its secluded beaches and lovely landscapes.  Check out these great family-friendly ideas in Wilson’s Prom.

Where to stay in Gippsland Lakes

We opted to stay in Bairnsdale, which isn’t the most charming town in the Gippsland Lakes area but it is the most convenient when you’re arriving from the highway and it offers reasonably priced, nice accommodations. We stayed at Mitchell on Main, which was quite nice and included breakfast and a pool. Check prices here for your stay.  (If you’re a new customer, receive $25 off your first booking !)

Alternatively, you can head straight to Paynesville for tomorrow morning’s extra-special activity! It’s a cute small town so it doesn’t have the same accommodation options as Bairnsdale, but if you book ahead a bit (unlike us), you can score a great Airbnb or one of these lovely holiday homes .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels near Gippsland Lakes

Day 2: Lakes Entrance to Eden (2h45m)

Things to do in gippsland lakes.

Now the real fun begins! The Gippsland Lakes area offers so many activities for travelers of all types. After a quick hotel breakfast, head to Paynesville on the south end and drive straight to the wharf to take the five-minute ferry ride to Raymond Island. In theory you could take your car across for $12, but there’s really no point to that – nearly the entire island is walkable, most of the roads are packed dirt and – critically – the island’s residents  don’t want your car there ! Be respectful, as you’re taking a stroll through a neighborhood here. There are no businesses or services on Raymond Island, so get your coffee and use the toilet before heading across.

Why should you visit Raymond Island? This guy:

Raymond Island is home to dozens and dozens of wild koalas! It’s one of the best places to see koalas in Australia. The one hour between scheduled weekday ferries is perfect for a stroll around the well-marked “koala trail”, which takes you all the way to the sanctuary area in the back of the island. We also spotted a grazing echidna on someone’s lawn, cockatoos screeching at us next to the playground and many other birds. Local resident Janine, who has lived on Raymond Island for nearly three decades, shared with me that the normally-dozing koalas make a huge racket  all night long , with the males grunting and the females screeching in reply. She still loves it! We didn’t observe it ourselves, but sometimes the koalas walk down the street to get from one eucalyptus to another. If you time your visit for the evening, you might even see kangaroos hopping along.

Once you’ve had your fill of koala love, hop the ferry back across to the “mainland” and enjoy an iced coffee and a pastry (or lunch) at Pier 70 . You can’t miss it, as it’s immediately adjacent to the wharf. We passed a lovely hour watching the boats and relaxing. Apparently the climate is essentially Mediterranean, so you’re unlikely to have a nasty day!

Hop in the car for a quick 45 minute drive up to Lakes Entrance, on the northern side of the lakes. The town is cute and has many options for a quick lunch, but the real attraction is the footbridge that takes you across to Ninety Mile Beach (so named for its length). The beach acts as a breakwater to protect the entire Gippsland Lakes region from the rough Pacific surf. It’s a great place for surfing, body surfing, sand play and casual splashing – keep young kids close by and only swim between the flags, as the waves can be intense. Even though we visited on a gorgeous summer Sunday afternoon, a glance in either direction along the beach revealed plenty of moments for solitude on the long, narrow stretch. After you’ve had your fill of beach, it’s time to head three hours north to Eden.

Side note: Ronnie declared this is “favorite travel day in this hemisphere”. Now that’s a vote of confidence!

Where to stay in Eden

Are you looking for Eden, NSW accommodation? I’ll be honest and say that we didn’t love ours. A better choice for couples might be this lovely bed & breakfast in Eden . If you’re planning to stay a few days in Eden or are traveling with a family or bigger group, the Betty Beach House is a real gem – it offers plenty of space to stretch out, a great location and tons of convenient amenities.

Families will love the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort just a little further north – we wish we’d known about it in advance and stayed there! We stayed at another one of their properties a few days later and it was wonderful. Click here to check prices and availability .

And for the most lavish but truly remarkable stay, you can drive out to Green Cape (see tomorrow’s itinerary) and stay at the old Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottages! Availability is extremely limited and they do book up a few weeks in advance during peak season, so make your reservation now .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Eden, Australia here

Day 3: Ben Boyd National Park to Narooma (2h30m)

Things to do in eden.

Whether you’ve stayed the night in Eden or further north in Merimbula, head into town for a delicious breakfast at Sprout Eden to fuel you up for the day ahead. If you have time to spare, you could consider spending two nights in this area of the Sapphire Coast. Within the town of Eden (walking distance from Sprout!) there is a Killer Whale Museum that is supposed to be excellent, though sadly we didn’t have time to check it out.

This stretch of coastal New South Wales is basically one national park after another, and for your stopover in Eden the place to be is Ben Boyd National Park . There are plenty of options for things to do in Ben Boyd, but we chose to spend our day in the southern section of the park (the northern and southern halves are not connected, so keep this in mind for your planning).

Our first stop in Ben Boyd was at Boyd’s Tower, an unpermitted and non-functional lighthouse built by its eccentric namesake. At the time of this writing, the walking track down to the water from the tower is closed and we felt that overall the site was underwhelming – not worth the extra drive if you’re only spending on night in the area and are pressed for time.

A much better route is to pop Green Cape Lighthouse into your GPS and head straight there (as I mentioned above, you can actually stay on the property !). The road is unsealed, but basically fine to drive on as long as you take your time. Along the way, you’ll see a sign for the Disaster Bay lookout.  Don’t skip it.  The view is simply stunning, especially on a clear day. This is also where you can pay for your entry to the park (inconveniently priced at $8 AUD… when we only had a 10).

The lighthouse itself is lovely and, as you can see, is situated on a beautiful rocky headland. It’s a perfect place for a stroll and you can even bring a picnic, though it’s a few minutes’ walk from the car park. There are public toilets at the lighthouse but  no potable water – BYO (and don’t run out like us).

After a bit of time appreciating Green Cape Lighthouse and its history, take the quick drive to Bittangabee Bay where you’ll find a camp ground and a lovely secluded cove for swimming. (Side note: we don’t camp, but kudos to those who do! This could be a lovely place to stay the night.) Bring your snorkel gear , because you’ll see heaps of fish along the rocks on the left side of the bay as you swim out. The red rocks surrounding the crystal waters add to the feeling that you’re miles from nowhere.

Where to stay in Narooma

From Bittangabee Bay to your next overnight stop in Narooma, it’s an easy and pretty two-and-a-half hour drive. We didn’t stay in Narooma but wish we had (you could even stay here for two nights on a slower trip)! The Top of the Town Motor Inn looks like a great option – check prices and availability here .

If you can spare a few days, check out these great Airbnbs in Narooma . There are so many fantastic choices! Here are a few to consider:

• Stunning beachfront apartment for 4 guests
• Beautiful 2 bedroom apartment with killer views
• Cozy budget-friendly suite for couples
• Gorgeous vacation retreat for 6 guests

As you’ll see below, we absolutely fell in love with the town. If you have time on the way in (which we didn’t, sadly) stop in Mimosa Rocks National Park to see the amazing rock formations out in the water. This would also be a great place to camp on the Sapphire Coast so that you can catch Mimosa Rocks at sunrise.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Narooma, Australia here

Day 4: Narooma to Murramarang (1h15m)

We arrived in Narooma just in time for a delicious brunch at The View , so named for its spectacular view overlooking the harbour. To look out from their patio, you’d think you were on a Caribbean island rather than in New South Wales, Australia! There are so many things to do in Narooma that you’ll be much better off if you’ve spent the night and gotten an early start to the day. Of course, you’d do just as well to sit and while away the day reading a book and enjoying the scenery.

Things to do in Narooma

We began with a lovely stroll on the pedestrian walkway that encircles that bay. The dock is a great place to spot some of Narooma’s awesome wildlife – we saw so many types of fish, several huge bull rays, and sea birds diving for a snack. The kids even made friends with some sweet Aussie kids who taught them how to fish and shared their lines.

If you have a full day (or two!) we would definitely recommend hopping on one of the highly-rated boat tours leaving from the dock to take the quick trip to Montague Island, where you can see pods of dolphins, stroll with tiny penguins, snorkel or dive with fur seals or even see migrating whales during the spring! Check out this great tour option .

Head over to Bar Rock, on the south side of the bay, for stunning coastal views. You’ll see amazing rock formations with waves crashing over them, and out on the jetty you can usually spot fur seals sunning themselves or even goin for a swim! Our kids were totally mesmerized and would have spent the whole afternoon watching them, but we ripped them away to head across the bay (by car) to the quiet, calm beach. This great swimming spot is even surrounded by a shark net to keep it extremely safe for “the littlies”. Bring your snorkel gear out here too, as we saw thousands of fish around the perimeter along the jetty and the net. Basically, our day in Narooma was like going to hands-on aquarium without the admission fees.

After we had worn ourselves out at the beach, it was time to head north for our last places to stop on the Sapphire Coast: Murramarang. But before we get into the awesomeness of Murramarang, make sure you stop in at Bodalla Dairy . They make a huge range of cheeses (our favorites were Tasmanian Pepperberry and Saltbush & Sage) and ice creams, and if you’re game for a real meal they offer a full menu. The main dairy production building is lined with windows to give you a peak at their operations (including the “ice cream lab”). If you happen to come through at 10am or 4pm, head to the back field to help bottle-feed the little calves!

Since you’ll probably have a long, wonderful day in Narooma like we did it’s nice to take just a short drive up to Murramarang. Our Aussie friends recommended that we stay at NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort and we’re  so glad they did. It was truly one of the highlights of our trip! Yes, the 2 bedroom/2 bathroom cabin felt luxurious after a few nights in cheap motels. Yes, the kids loved having a playground and a pool (with splashpad!) just a few minutes’ walk away.

But the real reason to come here is to spend an evening dwelling amongst the eastern gray kangaroos who call Murramarang National Park their home! These guys wander in and out as if there were no humans around. In particular, they seemed to love the open field where campers set up their tents and caravans, conveniently located near the playground and kids’ club. This is one of the best places to stay between Melbourne and Sydney, so make sure to check their availability and book ahead to reserve your room if you plan to visit on a weekend or during school holidays.

Day 5: Murramarang to Sydney (3h45m)

The final stretch of the drive, from Murramarang National Park up to Sydney, has a few amazing stops… if you’ve got the steam left for them. Truth be told, our kids were happy to spend the first half of the day enjoying the lovely pool and splash pad at the resort (thanks for the noon checkout, Brad!). But Murramarang National Park itself offer so much more than just the resort amenities.

There is a lovely, quiet beach right at the resort (some of the cabins even have a view, though ours didn’t). If you head south by car for about ten minutes you’ll hit North Head Beach, which offers snorkeling in its famed blue pools. Alternatively, you can head north up to the Aboriginal Area Walking Track for an easy two hour bush walk that will take you through an Aboriginal area complete with interpretive panels. As always, be sure to bring plenty of water as services may be limited.

When you’re ready to leave the park and continue north toward Sydney, you’ll find yourself in the Shoalhaven region – more developed for sure, but still with its own great activities for the whole family. If you haven’t had enough beach time, visit Huskisson to experience the world’s whitest sand (so says the Guinness Book of World Records). Otherwise you can continue north toward Berry along the Grand Pacific Drive and pay a visit to Two Figs Winery , which makes a really lovely Verdelho and several excellent sweet and dessert wines.

Other fun stops in this area include Nowra Aquatic Park (which we didn’t get to visit, but it includes a pool, splash zone and waterslide – admission starts at $20 for a family) and Budderoo National Park , which we visited on a quick trip from Wollongong. Though the waterfall viewing area was closed when we went to Budderoo, there’s still a lovely family-friendly walking track through the temperate rain forest. You’ll see a wide range of interesting plants, hear many species of native birds, and you might even get lucky (like we did) and spot a water dragon.

Further north, almost all the way to Wollongong (where our family ended the journey), you’ll find the lovely seaside hamlet of Kaiama. It’s a pleasant place to stop for lunch, a stroll and some shopping (we did some swimsuit shopping, picked up some new LEGO minifigs and bought more workbooks for Jacob’s roadschooling – all the exciting stuff!). Most importantly, if you walk around the wharf to the headlands you can stop by the nice little lighthouse and see one of the town’s two blowholes. This is the smaller one and often not extremely active, but it was going strong during our visit to we didn’t trek to the other one.

After five long days on the road, we finally rolled into Wollongong – a small city to be sure, but big and developed enough to signal a clear end to the gorgeous, unspoiled areas of the Sapphire Coast. We were glad to have the same bed for more than one night at a time, and also sad to see the end of such an amazing roadtrip from Melbourne to Sydney. The drive was truly the experience of a lifetime and I can’t recommend it highly enough!

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If you’re looking for some pampering when you finally get to Sydney, check out these luxe hotels

When’s the best time for the Melbourne to Sydney road trip?

A few readers have asked me when to take the road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. We have only done the drive during Aussie summer and that was an amazing time to go! The beaches were lovely, the weather was nice for some nature walks and the scenery was spectacular. It’s not a very heavily traveled part of Australia compared to the cities on either end, so you don’t really need to worry about trying to avoid crowds during “peak season”.

To be honest, I’m not convinced that the Melbourne to Sydney drive (or the Sydney to Melbourne drive, for that matter) would be nearly as pleasant in the winter. Winter weather in Victoria can be downright chilly and rainy from what our Australian friends tell us. Some of the scenery would still be pretty, of course, but the outdoor lifestyle that visitors envision when thinking about a trip to Australia just won’t be possible.

Both spring and autumn should still be nice seasons for this roadtrip. I’d rate it a must-do for visitors from December to March ; while the air temperature in March is a little cooler than many beach-goers prefer, water temperatures should still be nice. If I was coming on a lengthy trip to Australia, I’d consider making the drive in October, November or April . For our travel preferences, I probably would not drive from Melbourne to Sydney from May to September.

Surviving family road trip from Sydney to Melbourne

Twelve hours of driving can be a lot with young children! By breaking up the drive into five days and visiting so many places to see wildlife, we heard very few complaints. On many of the legs the best attractions will be part-way between your options for accommodation on south coast NSW, so you might only drive for one or two hours at a time – just right for the younger ones to take a nap or the older ones to watch a movie (we’ve been making copious use of our Amazon Fire tablets, including these great free apps ). Check out these other great tips that have seen us through many road trips over the last year.

This amazing Australian road trip is great for families because so many of the activities will win kids’ hearts. I mean, what kid wouldn’t love a short nature walk to a koala sanctuary or staying at a place that has a waterpark AND kangaroos hopping through the playground? There wasn’t a single stop that the kids didn’t enjoy, so take the plunge and go from Melbourne to Sydney by car!

Plan your trip to Australia

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What to read next

13 thoughts on “melbourne to sydney drive: the ultimate guide”.

we have an upcoming LONG road trip so this is very inspiring! These pics are incredible, the blue is so blue both the sky and the water! What an amazing experience, I love a good road trip (esp with all these great stops)

Such an adventurous road trip! I’m loving each photo 🙂 It seems kids were truly enjoying as well.

They had SUCH a great time!

what an awesome and epic road trip! I really need to visit Australia and this looks too perfect to start with! Your photos have so much happiness in them!!

If you make it to Aus, definitely build in a few days for this trip ?

Sounds like an amazing road trip! Unfortunately, I never did get around to do that when I was in Australia. But certainly something I’ll be thinking about for whenever I make it back there. I love how much wildlife there is in this journey. Thanks for the inspiration!

Bummer that you missed it! There’s so much to do here that you can’t possibly see everything.

I loved this drive when we did it! Gives the great ocean road a run for it’s money that’s for sure!

We did them basically back-to-back (GOR Thurs-Fri, then left for this drive Saturday afternoon) so there were definitely a lot of comparisons, but the drive through Gippsland Lakes and the Sapphire Coast was all-around so beautiful and offered so many more activities!

You had me at all the koala pictures (and then the kangaroo pictures)!!! What a fun road trip and all the gorgeous views along the way!

Melbourne to Sydney travel by car will be unique experience. Such a beautiful blog. I like travel. your travel experience really help to us in Australia tour.

Melbourne is really nice city in Australia. it has my Favorite Cricket Ground .. Its amazing to watch cricket in MCG. Good destination and too beautiful.. same thing we can say for Sydney also.. its totally tourist place. If you are thinking for a long vacation.. Syndey is much visit city in australia.

This will be handy for us for later this year. Thank you!

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Self drive itineraries from Melbourne to Sydney and Sydney to Melbourne road trips. Driving routes, regions and towns that provide accommodation, activities, foods, wines, adventures, nature and family experiences.

Home / Narooma

Breathtaking is the word for a first visit to Narooma.

Narooma is not a sight you would ever grow tired of with Montague Island sitting offshore and Mount Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) dominating the escarpment and the colours of Wagonga Inlet – are truly a multitude of blues.

It’s not hard to see why Narooma is a mecca for fishing enthusiasts. Around the waters of Montague Island you can chase kingfish, marlin and yellowfin tuna as well as many reef species. Narooma is home to a fleet of modern charter boats, all operated by experienced professionals. Full day and half day charters for groups and individuals are available for fishing and diving. Just south of Narooma is Mystery Bay, one of the best snorkelling spots on the coast.

Embark on a whale watching tour between September and November for memories to last a lifetime. Explore beautiful Wagonga Inlet on a charter or hire a boat and make your own adventure. The pristine waterways of Narooma and Wagonga Inlet have been protected by the Batemans Marine Park so future generations can enjoy them. A tour to Montague Island is the ultimate Narooma experience – you can even stay overnight! Enquire at Narooma Visitor Centre .

The Mill Bay Boardwalk is the perfect way to appreciate the natural beauty of Narooma – it takes you out over the water where large schools of fish and stingrays sometimes make graceful appearances. The clifftop golf course offers a stunning vista out to Montague Island- in spring it is not uncommon to spot whales.

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An 8-day road trip itinerary along the NSW South Coast

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

31 October 2023

Plot a course around the South Coast of NSW with our itinerary of must-dos.

Book some annual leave, throw your bags, kids and dogs in the car and follow our itinerary around the stunning NSW South Coast. Just remember to pack light, as you will want to stock up on artisan produce during the course of your leisurely road trip.

Day one: Sydney to Jervis Bay (drive time: three hours, 20 minutes)

This road trip loop begins in Sydney to Jervis Bay . But if you’re travelling south to north, you could easily pivot this itinerary around Eden. The stunning Shoalhaven town of Jervis Bay is a playground comprising crystalline waters and white sands.

The first thing you need to note when visiting Jervis Bay is how to pronounce it: it’s JERvis, not Jarvis. When you mention Jervis Bay, many Australians recall the spectacular white sand and turquoise waters of Hyams Beach. But Jervis Bay is actually a huge marine park with 16 beaches. It’s also a haven for bottlenose dolphins, the northernmost fur seal colony in Australia, and fairy penguins, making it one of the best places in the country for wildlife experiences . It’s what makes the region extra special.

Swim with the seals in Jervis Bay.

Fringed by Booderee National Park and Jervis Bay Marine Park, the region is a veritable paradise for nature lovers, surfers and – from May to October – whale watchers who come to see the whales come into the bay to rest and play. You can’t possibly do it all in one trip, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top 10 things to do and one of the standout options is a self-guided trail that will take you from Flamin’ Galah Brewing Company to Jervis Bay Brewing Co. where hop heads can pick up a few different styles of ale and lager to take home.

Grab yourself a pint at Jervis Bay Brewing Co.

Whether you’re keen for casual frolicking or serious underwater adventure, the dazzling waters off the coast of Jervis Bay beckon: head to the marine park and book yourself in for a snorkel or dive session with Woebegone Freedive .

When all that saltwater action has worked up a ravenous hunger, head to the Huskisson Hotel for good, coastal pub fare or refuel with an Aussie-style burger and milkshake at The Cooked Goose on Hyams Beach, one of many top spots to eat in Jervis Bay .

There are a number of great Jervis Bay accommodation options, but to start your trip on a luxe note spend a night or two at Paperbark Camp. Here, you can truly appreciate the unique importance of your bushland surrounds in the Deluxe Plus Safari Tents which are perfect for family and friends travelling together as they can accommodate up to four people.

Paperbark Camp has five swish Deluxe Plus safari tents to add to its luxe offering.

You can also immerse yourself in the coastal experience at  Bangalay Luxury Villas , Shoalhaven Heads. For something altogether more casual, book a tiny cabin at  Huskisson’s Holiday Haven White Sands .

Dine by the pool at Bangalay Luxury Villas.

For families on a budget, head to the old-school Green Patch campsite in Jervis Bay, which is a short stroll away from Green Patch Beach and a protected, picturesque lagoon set within Booderee National Park. The Jervis Bay Holiday Park , which is set right on the river, is very family-friendly and you can pitch a tent or park your caravan on one of the powered or unpowered sites.

You can find more Jervis Bay accommodation options here.

Day two: Jervis Bay to Milton (one hour), then Milton to Batemans Bay (one hour)

After breakfast, pick up a grab-and-go option from Bangalay Dining to enjoy at your final destination: beautiful Batemans Bay. But relax and take it easy; there’s no hurry to get there. It is, after all, about the journey, so rise early and thread your way through the historic village of Milton, enjoying a stroll and stopping for coffee and cake at Small Town Food & Wine .

Navigate your way to the hills behind Milton for lunch and you’ll be rewarded with a wine-and-dine experience in the hinterland at picturesque Cupitt’s Estate . We do recommend, however, that you have the ‘designated driver conversation’ before  you start your meal.

Once you’re suitably fed and quenched, it’s just an hour’s drive to Batemans Bay, where there’s plenty to see and do. Do it right and time this leg so as to arrive for a restorative afternoon swim. Make a note to return to the property without the kids to stay in the luxury new pods. And don’t leave before picking up more provisions from Cupitt’s Estate, home to a fromagerie, brewery and winery.

Enjoy a tasting at Cupitt’s Estate winery.

Make sure you build in some time to sample at least one of the many culinary gems dotted around Milton and the neighbouring towns of Mollymook and Ulladulla.

This area is well-endowed with excellent eateries, from the sleek and polished Rick Stein at Bannisters and Tallwood in Mollymook to Milton’s inviting Harvest Bar and Ulladulla’s Maverick Coffee.

You can also treat your tastebuds to lunch at The Ruse overlooking Ulladulla Harbour.

Inside the sleek and polished Rick Stein at Bannisters.

The next leg of the South Coast NSW itinerary steers visitors into Batemans Bay for the night. But if you’re altogether captivated by Milton and its surroundings, you can opt to bed down at nearby  Surfside Cudmirrah Beach .

If you are continuing on, however, there’s a good chance you’ll arrive late in Batemans Bay. Know that when you do turn up, you’ll be warmly greeted at  The Esplanade , a boutique hotel where you’ll likely want to add a second night.

But what are road trips, if not flexible, right? You can also plump for a few nights at Pebbly Beach Escapes , just a 20-minute drive away in magical Murramarang National Park. The newly renovated Bay Breeze Motel is another boutique option located on the waterfront in Batemans Bay.

Be greeted warmly at the boutique hotel, The Esplanade.

Day three and four: Batemans Bay to Bermagui (one hour and 25 minutes)

Before you put tyre to bitumen on the Bay to Bermagui leg, we strongly suggest you spend a good portion of the day exploring this country town in the heart of Australia’s Oyster Coast.

Batemans Bay

You might choose to do so by bike and pedal your way along the Batemans Bay cycleway, or perhaps you will decide to paddle along as part of a kayak tour with Bay and Beyond in the gentle waters of the Batemans Bay Marine Park.

Join the kayak tour by Bay and Beyond.

Be sure to block out some beach time at Mossy Point, which is often overlooked by visitors travelling along George Bass Drive. Stop off at the Mossy Point Cafe for coffee and healthy food options. Mossy Point is located smack-bang between the pristine Tomaga River and Candlagan Creek and one of the best ways to explore the coastal village is via kayak with Region X . You can also cycle all the way from Candlagen Beach to South Broulee.

Don’t forget to grab yourself a cuppa at Mossy Cafe.

Before setting off bound for Bermagui, head to the Oyster Shed on Wray St to pick up a cheeky dozen. Foodies will love the fact they can also arrive at the Oyster Shed by paddling along the Clyde River with Region X. You can also go for a twilight seafood cruise on the Clyde/Bhundoo onboard the MV Merinda , operated by the Innes family, long-term South Coast locals.

Continue onto Bermagui on the stunning Sapphire Coast. This picturesque harbour town is well known for its impossibly fresh seafood and deep-sea game fishing. While you may not be here to throw a line out, you can certainly indulge in the catch of the day at the Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf .

The traditional owners of the land around Tilba are the Yuin people and Gulaga is the sacred mother mountain of the region. After European settlement, the region’s rich volcanic soil lured dairy farmers and this industry is still evident at makers such as Tilba Real Dairy . You can also enjoy artisan produce at the famous heritage-listed Dromedary Hotel .

Welcome to Batemans Bay.

If you’re travelling with children, we advise you swing through historic Mogo and pay a visit to  Mogo Zoo before continuing onto Bermagui. There’s also a Rock Platform Discovery Walk near Depot Beach along the intertidal zone in Batemans Bay Marine Park where you can spot colourful crabs walking sideways to their homes in the rock pools. For parents with teens, there are quality points and beach breaks dotted between Mollymook and Batemans Bay.

Order some meals online from Eastwoods Deli & Cooking School , pop into the Camel Rock Brewery Bar & Grill for woodfired pizzas and pints, and enjoy fine dining on the grounds of Mimosa Winery in the heart of the Sapphire Coast. Make sure you restock your picnic hamper with bakery items from Il Passaggio and Honorbread.

Try the fresh oysters from Il Passagio at Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf.

If you choose to drive to Bermagui via Bega, you can enjoy the South Coast’s award-winning premium gin experience.

Although the name implies that the gin is made in Eden, North of Eden distillery and cellar door is actually located closer to Bega. North of Eden Gin runs gin-making classes – a must for an interactive experience in the region – and bookings are essential.

Learn how to make a variety of cocktails with North of Eden Distillery.

Buy some local oysters from the iconic East Lynne Store roadhouse and enjoy a seafood feast by the pool at The Anchorage Bermagui before retiring to your self-contained apartment.

Enjoy a barbecue and retreat to your room at The Anchorage Bermagui.

Oakleigh Farm Cottages is half an hour’s drive from Bermagui and another family-friendly option for accommodation on the Eurobodalla South Coast of NSW. You can also bunker down at Mimosa Wines farmhouse, which sleeps nine guests – perfect for a few families or group of friends – or nestle down in Narooma at the Bermagui Beach Hotel, which has great food and magic views.

Other accommodation options in the area include Mystery Bay Cottages, Mountain View Farm at the base of Gulaga and Tilba Lake Camp.

Oakleigh Farm Cottages is another family-friendly option.

Day five: Bermagui to Merimbula (70 minutes) then Merimbula to Eden (25 minutes) and back to Merimbula overnight (25 minutes)

Rise and get the day off to a shining start with some more baked delights from Bermagui’s Honorbread . Once you’ve inhaled some delicious carbs, head to the famous Blue Pool just off Pacific Drive for an invigorating dip. The pool is still worth a visit in the cooler months as it offers a great vantage point for whale-spotting.

Start the day with some baked delights from Bermagui’s Honorbread.

Enjoy Red Brick Coffee and supreme plant-based cuisine at Boneless , a vegetarian café in Bermagui. Enjoy aperitivos at the Harbar overlooking – you guessed it – Bermagui Harbour before finding a place to perch at Il Passaggio, a modern Italian restaurant located at the Fisherman’s Wharf.

It’s time to roll on to the Merimbula Wharf Aquarium and Restaurant where you can feed the fish in this remarkable location that clings to the coastline. Stop in at Toast Pambula for a healthy brunch, then cross the road to the  Wild Rye’s Baking Co  to pick up some coffee and pastries that will sweeten the short drive to NSW’s most southerly town of Eden.

Do not leave town before dining at Valentina , the hottest (and most sophisticated) ticket in town and sister restaurant Dulcie’s Cottage, which serves craft cocktails and beer alongside local oysters and fries.

Stop in at Toast Pambula for a healthy brunch.

Eden is a town of deep beauty, where the verdant bush virtually tumbles down craggy cliffs and into the sea. It also has a fascinating (and horrific) whaling history, which you can explore at the home-spun  Eden Killer Whale Museum  and by driving the Killer Whale Trail on the Sapphire Coast.

If you’re wild about whales, plan your visit in November to coincide with the Eden Whale Festival. Keen bird-watchers will appreciate the gentle pace of a kayak tour with Kiah Wilderness Escapes, as guide Jen Robb points out native flora and fauna in the local environment. Grab coffee and a toastie or healthy salad at Sprout, a cafe on the main street of Eden that also puts together epic picnics.

Appreciate the calm waters through a kayak tour with Kiah Wilderness Escape.

Head to Green Cape Lookout for mesmerising vistas from the jagged peninsula, where you might even spot a fur seal or an albatross. Join a Cat Balou  cruise of Twofold Bay for a more in-depth interaction with this coastal beauty or a Wharf to Wharf Walk with Sapphire Coast Guiding Co . Guide Cam Read also conducts e-bike tours of Mimosa Rocks National Park and can tailor a tour of the Sapphire Coast to suit. Foodies can also pinball between oysters, distillers, brewers, makers and bakers along the newly launched Gourmet Coast Trail .

Join a Cat Balou cruise of Twofold Bay.

Keep it low-key at one of the many Airbnbs or camping parks in the area or stay at the newly made-over Hillcrest Merimbula which is luring style-savvy road-trippers with its retro vibes.

The two-storey motel, which is located at the top of Merimbula Drive, faces seaward and has the feel of a lighthouse. It also has a tennis court, pool, and fire pit and can arrange a private sit-down dinner catered to by local chefs.

Keep it low-key at the newly made-over Hillcrest Merimbula.

Day six: The return journey to Sydney from Eden to Tathra (50 minutes) then Tathra to Narooma (70 minutes)

Sadly, it’s time to point the nose of your car homeward. Stop at Sprout Eden for brunch where you can stock up on local smoked seafood from the  Eden Smokehouse before your cruise north.

Then it’s onward to Tathra, where you can find yourself an ocean-side picnic spot and decant the smoked goods from your esky, supplemented with some  Tathra Oysters  you’ve picked up on the way.

Walk along the new Tathra Headland Walk to arrive at the iconic Tathra Wharf, before heading to the Tathra Hotel for lunch. Pividori’s Tathra Beach is the new sister eatery to Blend and a prime spot to perch. Burn off those calories by hiring an e-bike from Tathra Beach & Bike and exploring the region’s 55 kilometres of trails.

After all the exploring, head to the Tathra Hotel for lunch.

The biggest takeaway message when exploring the tiny coastal hamlets on the NSW South Coast is that you will have a multitude of reasons to return. If you didn’t get to Narooma on the way south, head there on your way northward to check out what hotelier Justin Hemmes has contributed to the local amenity.

Hemmes, who owns a coastal homestead nearby, has given a very considered zhoozing to the tiki-style Quarterdeck pub and cocktail bar, The Inlet next door and the 17-room The Whale Inn .

Help yourself to some tiki style cocktails at Quarterdeck.

Believe the Narooma rumours: Hemmes has done a wonderful job of reimagining all three properties, which are still a work in progress. In taking that slowly-slowly approach, Hemmes is being led by the community and giving them what they need and want.

Take a tour out to Montague Island with Montague Island Adventures where you can snorkel with the seals, take a penguin tour and enjoy hearing the history of the island with a National Parks & Wildlife Guide.  Fisherfolk should also factor in an offshore adventure with Charter Fish Narooma.

Landscapes at Tilba Valley Winery and Alehouse

The clear waters of Narooma in the Eurobodalla region invite swimmers, surfers, snorkellers and divers into its pristine depths. But if you have the time, a must-visit itinerary item is a day trip to  Montague Island with Montague Island Adventures . Here,  you’ll find incredible sea life, birdlife (including penguins) and a fur seal colony, all just nine kilometres from Narooma.

Hire an e-bike from Southbound Escapes and burn off some of those Quarterdeck calories on your way to the quirky food van known as The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter , located overlooking the Coxon family’s oyster lease on the banks of Wagonga Inlet.

Beer nerds will also appreciate craft beer and tacos and live music on offer at Big Niles Brewery , another noteworthy Narooma operation run by Cam White, a former pro BMX rider turned brewer.

Montague Island is practically begging for a day trip.

As aforementioned, The Whale Inn was snapped up by Justin Hemmes in 2021. And the bar tsar, who calls Narooma home for much of the year, has built on the previous owners’ vision for a destination restaurant with rooms. Check into The Whale Inn before taking a short drive to Tilba for a lazy afternoon at the Tilba Valley Winery and Alehouse.

If you have time, take a side trip to explore Cobargo, Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba, where lunch at the Dromedary Hotel is a must. Reserve a table at The Whale Inn for dinner so you can enjoy some Merivale magic.

You will also enjoy views over Montague Island from your room at the Amooran Apartments just opposite the cliff-top Narooma Golf Course.

Bed down beachside at the adorable  Mystery Bay Cottages, where you have your own, private four-star cottage set on a beachfront 12-hectare property or step it up a notch again and treat yourself to a night in a converted barn studio at Tilba Lake House , set against the sacred Mount Gulaga.

For something a little more low-key and family-friendly, try Big4 Narooma East’s Holiday Park and Tathra Beach House Apartments .

Have a restful stay at the adorable Mystery Bay Cottages.

Day seven: Narooma to Kiama (three hours, four minutes)

Today is the day you will be making your way from Narooma to pretty Kiama. Enjoy a pop-up breakfast picnic on the shores of Wagonga Inlet via Southbound Escapes or visit the takeaway window at Mr Bold Catering Co. in the industrial area of Narooma to stock up before you set off. Mr Bold Catering takes pre-orders of local grazing platters on Wednesday afternoons with a rotating roster of heat-and-eat meals that you can enjoy at your local accommodation. You can also pre-order a picnic platter and cocktails or the full dinner party feast.

Head down for an afternoon surf and catch this breathtaking sunset in Kiama.

When you do arrive in the coastal village of Kiama, you must take a tour of those breath-snatching blowholes before settling into the laidback-luxe vibes at Diggies  at Blowhole Point for a well-rounded afternoon of good eats and cooling cocktails.

Laidback-luxe vibes at Diggies.

Still hungry? Head to The Hungry Monkey and The Brooding Italian for burgers. Miss Arda  is the sister venue of  Otis Deli , both opened by chef Emily Herbert (the former head chef under Yotam Ottolenghi at Ottolenghi Belgravia in the UK).

The Kiama Coastal Walk is a 20-kilometre track that curls gently from Minnamurra River to Gerringong’s Werri Werri Beach. For such a staggeringly beautiful coast-fringed walk, it’s remarkable how under-the-radar this experience is. You needn’t do it all; simply choose the section that suits you best and be entirely captivated by this special place.

See views of Werri Werri Beach on this staggeringly beautiful coast-fringed walk.

Kiama has a sparkling new boutique hotel. Complete with 32 stylish rooms, a pool, and coffee dispensed from a ‘Kombi’,  Nova Kiama will bring your road trip to a well-appointed end.

Nova Kiama will bring your road trip to a well-appointed end.

Day eight: Kiama to Sydney (one hour, 42 minutes)

It’s time for the final leg of your NSW South Coast escape. You came, you spent money, and you’ve left these communities in slightly better shape than before your visit. There’s no doubt you’re also feeling restored by this enriching experience punctuated by clear waters, astounding wildlife and friendly locals. This is what we call mutually beneficial tourism. Well played, travellers.

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Melbourne to Sydney drive itinerary

With stunning coastlines, epic national parks, and charming heritage towns, these are the best stops on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today. He has been a journalist for more than 20 years and loves exploring different parts of Australia.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today and has been a journalist for 20 years.

Last updated: November 22, 2023

Each day of the Melbourne to Sydney road trip

Jump down to a particular day - or keep reading for my complete Melbourne to Sydney itinerary.

• Day 1: Melbourne to Walhalla • Option: Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory • Day 2: Walhalla to Metung • Day 3: Metung to Mallacoota • Day 4: Mallacoota to Narooma • Day 5: Narooma to Jervis Bay • Day 6: Jervis Bay to Sydney

One of the best road trips you can do in Australia has to be the Melbourne to Sydney drive, tracing the coastline past stunning beaches and through epic national parks.

There is the practical benefit – that you get between the country’s two largest cities without having to worry about the logistics of a flight. But I also think it’s got a fantastic amount of diversity – big cities and small towns, the beach and the bush, relaxation and adventure, nature and culture.

Imagine sailing on a lake one day, hanging out with kangaroos the next. Going deep inside an old gold mine one afternoon and then hiking along the coast by morning.

There are a few different routes you could take to get between Melbourne and Sydney.

The most direct way is to go straight along the Hume Highway, the main road that connects the two. That takes about ten hours of driving but it’s not particularly scenic. There aren’t too many places worth stopping that are close to the highway.

If you discount the Hume Highway, that leaves you with two main options – go along the coast or go inland. Both have their advantages and, if you have time (or are driving between Melbourne and Sydney in both directions) then you can try both routes.

In this road trip itinerary, I’ll be taking you along the Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive .

In total, this coastal route between Melbourne and Sydney is 1200 kilometres long and will take a total of about 15 hours driving . (So, it’s about 300 kilometres longer and six hours more driving than going directly up the Hume Highway.)

I’ve split the road trip into six days of driving but you can tailor it to your own needs. If you need to go faster, any of the stops could be skipped and that day’s drive would still be manageable. If you have some extra time, I would highly recommend choosing a couple of the spots for an extra day to hang out and explore.

How long does it take to drive from Melbourne to Sydney?

The shortest way to drive from Melbourne to Sydney is up the Hume Highway through Albury and Goulburn. This is about 900 kilometres long and will take just over nine hours of driving (without stops).

In this road trip itinerary, the drive goes along the coast. This route is about 1200 kilometres long and takes about 15 hours of driving.

Another popular drive goes inland between the coast and the Hume Highway, through the Snowy Mountains. This route is about 1100 kilometres and takes about 14 hours of driving.

There’s also another interesting road trip route that goes even further inland, through cities like Shepparton, Junee and Bathurst. It’s about 1000 kilometres long and takes about 13 hours of driving.

Where should I stop between Melbourne and Sydney?

Depending on which route you are driving between Melbourne and Sydney, there are lots of options for places to stop and quite often there a few interesting towns in close proximity that you can choose from.

In this coastal route from Melbourne to Sydney, I am suggesting stops at Walhalla, Metung, Gipsy Point, Narooma, and Jervis Bay. I think this itinerary offers a lovely mix of bush and beach, with national parks, wildlife experiences, and some heritage.

For the drive directly from Melbourne to Sydney on the Hume Highway, Albury or Gundagai are good places to stop overnight or just for a bit of a rest.

Is it worth driving from Melbourne to Sydney?

If you want to see the best of Queensland, then it’s definitely worth driving from Brisbane to Cairns. It’s along this stretch of coast that you’ll find most of Queensland’s natural wonders, plus the scenery between them is beautiful.

There’s also plenty of heritage and cultural attractions on the drive from Brisbane to Cairns, and you’re going to miss most of them if you just fly between the two cities, or don’t take the time to stop regularly along the way.

Is it cheaper to fly or drive from Melbourne to Sydney?

If all you want to do is get between Melbourne and Sydney, then flying is both a cheaper and a faster option. The flight will take only an hour and, even with transport to and from the airport, it’s probably only about a two hour trip, compared to nine hours of driving.

The cost of a flight between Melbourne and Sydney varies a lot throughout the year, but you can get a one way ticket for as low as $60 on a budget airline. If you were to drive, the cost of petrol would be at least double that. There are also costs like tolls, and potentially accommodation if you don’t go the whole way in one day.

However, flights can get more expensive in peak time and at the last minute. if the cheapest flight available is more than $150, then it might start to be cheaper to drive in one day.

Is there a train from Melbourne to Sydney?

Yes, there is a train from Melbourne to Sydney that connects the capital cities through stops including Wangaratta, Wagga Wagga, and Goulburn. It takes about 11 hours and the cheapest adult tickets start at $78.

The train goes twice a day in each direction. One of the trips is during the day, and the other is overnight. The train is relatively basic, though, and certainly not the standard you find with high-speed trains in Europe or Japan. (Although new trains are coming in 2023, which look much better!)

Although there are lots of places to stop along the Melbourne to Sydney drive, I’ve chosen the ones in this itinerary because they offer some of the most interesting activities, with significant national parks or iconic experiences. There’s also some diversity in these stops, rather than just going to a nice beach each day.

The drive time each day is also quite short in this itinerary, and that’s intentional. I’m assuming that you’re doing the coastal route between Melbourne and Sydney because you want to see the sights along the way, rather than just get between the two cities. But feel free to change things as you go – there are lots of other options, particularly along the NSW South Coast .

As you can see on the map above, there’s lots of ground to cover. So, with all of that introduction out of the way, let’s get into the details of this Melbourne to Sydney drive itinerary!

Melbourne – Walhalla

2h 30m of driving (180 km)

The first part of today’s drive will just be getting out of Melbourne, through the city’s southeastern suburbs. You may hit a little bit of traffic if you leave during peak hour, but the roads are quite good.

As the countryside opens up, you’ll be driving through the relatively flat agricultural lands of West Gippsland, known primarily for dairy farming but also for a burgeoning gourmet food scene.

The highway goes through some of the region’s towns and bypasses some of them, but there are plenty of quaint places to stop for a coffee along the way, including Warragul, Yarragon, and Moe.

On today’s drive…

Today’s drive is just long enough that you’ll probably want to stop somewhere to break up the journey and have a rest. The biggest town you’ll pass through is Warragul, which is full of 19th century heritage and also has an impressive collection of art galleries. The Bean Scene has great coffee, or you can pick up some supplies at Stella’s Pantry .

Although it’s quite small, another option for a break is Yarragon. I would recommend a coffee or lunch at the  Fozigobble Cafe , which has organic food and a lovely garden at the front.

Or the last option before you start climbing up the hill is the historic town of Moe, where there are some leisurely bushwalks to stretch your legs. The main attraction here is Old Gippstown , a recreation of Gippsland in the 1850s.

Today’s destination is Walhalla, an old gold mining town that was one of the richest places in Australia in the late 1880s. Thousands of people lived and worked here during the boom. Now, though, there are less than 20 permanent residents.

Walhalla is a peaceful place and it’s easy to relax – but the town has also retained the charm of its golden era and there’s plenty to see.

I would recommend a tour into Long Gully Extended Gold Mine, to get a sense of what it would have been like for the workers. It’s incredible to think that most of the passages here were painstakingly cut away by hand.

It’s also worth taking a ride on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, a charming heritage train that crosses a series of bridges before reaching its destination 20 minutes later, before heading back. The scenery along the way is beautiful!

And you’ll also be able to spend a couple of hours wandering the streets, exploring the bushland around town, and hanging at some of the local businesses. I’ve got more tips here on things to do in Walhalla .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN WALHALLA

Although it’s a small town, there are quite a few places to stay in Walhalla – and they all come with a little bit of history.

Built in 1890, Windsor House is one of the last original properties in Walhalla and offers five rooms for B&B accommodation.

SELF-CONTAINED

Although it’s been renovated, the 1896 cottage known as Walhalla Mill House is a self-contained property and can sleep up to 4 people.

On the outskirts of town, Stringer’s Cottage is a compact self-contained property that’s full of charm and authentic heritage.

The most popular option in town, Walhalla’s Star Hotel has an original facade but has been rebuilt with boutique suites and an excellent restaurant.

Melbourne – Wilsons Promontory

3 h 10m of driving (220 km)

Now, before we go on to day 2 of the itinerary, I want to give you an option for a different way to start this drive from Melbourne to Sydney.

I know I promised a coastal drive, but you may have noticed the first day’s destination was Walhalla, which is very much inland. I did it this way because there are going to be plenty of beaches and water from now on, and a little bit of Gold Rush heritage is important when you’re visiting Victoria.

But, if you do want to stick to the coast, then the alternative option for day 1 is to drive down to Wilsons Promontory instead. It is one of Australia’s best national parks and a very popular destination for people from Melbourne – particularly during school holidays.

A good place to stop on the drive from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory is Meeniyan. If you need a meal or a coffee, make sure you check out  Moo’s at Meeniyan , which does some of the best food in town.

You may also need to pick up some supplies here in Meeniyan for your overnight stay in the national park because Wilsons Promontory has a shop that’s open during the day where you can get food, but there’s nothing available in the evening. There’s a supermarket in Meeniyan or you could ask Marty at Moo’s to fix you up a dinner pack to cook on the barbeque (that’s what I did).

Make sure you also get petrol here or at nearby Fish Creek because there are no petrol stations at Wilsons Promontory.

Wilsons Promontory is the southernmost point of mainland Australia and it has an amazing collection of natural offerings. There are huge granite mountains, forest, beaches, and rocky outcrops. You can relax on the sand or go hiking for hours (or even days).

The main area in Wilsons Promontory is Tidal River, where you’ll find a shop and many of the camping sites (and a few other accommodation options). From here, you can explore the parts of the park that are easy to access.

If you’re only planning to stay one night, you won’t be able to access the areas that need long hikes in. I would recommend you walk to Squeaky Beach, which got its name because of the sound the sand makes when you walk on it. And catch the sunset at Whisky Bay, which is only a ten minute drive from Tidal River and really worth the effort.

You could also hike up to the top of Mount Oberon. It’s relatively steep but manageable for most people and only takes about an hour from the closest car park. The view from the top is spectacular and you can look out over most of The Prom.

For more information, I’ve got a story about things to do at Wilsons Prom .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION AROUND WILSONS PROM

You’ll usually need to book in advance to stay at Tidal River in the national park, but you can check availability here . Otherwise, there are these options near the park’s entrance.

The cosy rooms at Prom Coast Apartments come with a full kitchenette – and are only a few minutes from the beach.

You get wonderful views down the hill to the coast at the large and modern Black Cockatoo Cottages .

There are a few different sized houses at the charming Driftwood Villas , with the largest able to sleep 12 people!

The views are incredible from Limosa Rise , plus this self-contained accommodation has a great design that makes you feel immediately at home.

Walhalla – Metung

2h 30m of driving (190 km)

Heading down from the mountains towards the coast, most of today’s drive will be through agricultural land, with the silhouettes of the hills to your left, and the ocean out of sight to the right.

The destination for today is the Gippsland Lakes, the largest navigable inland water system in Australia. It’s a perfect place for a holiday because the lakes offer plenty of opportunity for water sport, while the beach is just metres away.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stop along the way, there are two good options. The first is Sale, a former port that has an affluent heritage to it. There are a few things to see in town, and the Redd Catt restaurant is nice for a meal or a coffee.

Closer to Metung, another good rest spot is Bairnsdale, which quite a few people actually use as a base when they visit the Gippsland Lakes (so there are lots of shops here, if you need to stock up on anything). Pop into the East Gippsland Art Gallery for a bit of culture and don’t miss the striking murals in St Mary’s church.

Although Lakes Entrance is the main tourist centre of this part of Gippsland Lakes, I recommend you stay instead at Metung, which offers a more charming village atmosphere. You can potter around for a quiet afternoon, or do what most people come here for – and hit the water!

Fishing and boating are some of the most popular activities and a local company in Metung called Riviera Nautic offers a couple of options, including a leisurely cruise around the lakes.

You can also hire a little motorboat from them and drive yourself around, pulling into the small bays, powering across the lakes, and stopping at the beach. Or tkae it more slowly in a kayak or on a stand up paddle board. You’ll be amazed at how many water birds you’ll be able to get close to.

For food in Metung, I would definitely suggest eating at the  Metung Hotel  for dinner and  Bancroft Bites  for breakfast.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN METUNG

Most of the accommodation in Metung is aimed a long stays, with lots of self-contained multi-room options. But you can definitely just stay a night or two – and you may appreciate the facilities on a long road trip.

With views of the lake from most of the rooms, the Metung Waters Motel is great value for clean and comfortable rooms.

As well as the spacious apartments of different sizes, the Moorings at Metung also offer swimming pools, a tennis court, and private marina.

Just a few minutes from town, Edgewater Terraces have a serious of large waterfront properties that are perfect for families or groups.

The modern apartments at 5 Knots Metung are self-contained but feel more boutique than some of the town’s other options.

Metung – Mallacoota

2h 30m of driving (210 km)

Today’s drive is one of the prettiest of the whole trip, with lush Australian bush along both sides of the road for most of the way, as you cut through national parks and state forests.

The road is easy to drive but it has enough dips and turns to keep it interesting, and as the sun shines through the treetops, the various lighting effects create some glorious landscapes.

There aren’t many stops along the way but you’ll probably want to get to today’s destination of Croajingalong National Park early anyway, so you can make the most of your time.

As I mentioned, there aren’t many obvious places to stop along the way because this stretch of the road is the least populated of the road trip.

To break up the journey today, I suggest a stop at Cann River, which you’ll reach after about two hours. Although there isn’t much here, the Pelican Point Coffee Lounge is good for a coffee or a meal.

Welcome to the enormous Croajingalong National Park, which stretches for more than 100 kilometres along the coast. UNESCO has declared the park a World Biosphere Reserve because of the natural diversity it has within it. It’s one of the most interesting natural locations in Australia but, for some reason, gets a limited number of tourists.

Getting around Croajingalong is not easy and you won’t be able to see a lot of it in one afternoon. Unless you plan to stay longer (which would be great), I suggest you spend your time seeing a few different aspects of Croajingalong National Park. The coastline is quite spectacular and you can access its beaches from quite a few places off Betka Road, just south of Mallacoota.

Hiking up to the top of Genoa Peak gives you fantastic views and is relatively easy, taking about 30 minutes from the carpark. Many of the bushwalks inland from the coast will get you up close with some Australian wildlife (I saw some koalas on the track I took).

You should also try to get out on the water and explore the isolated beaches and bays that can’t be reached by car. I’ve got more information about all of this in my story about things to do in Croajingalong National Park .

The main town in Croajingalong National Park is Mallacoota, and you’ll find accommodation and restaurants there. Although I think the quieter community of Gipsy Point is actually a nicer place to stay, if you’re looking for something less busy.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN CROAJINGALONG

There are two options for places to stay. Most of the accommodation is in Mallacoota, but you’ll find a much quieter community nearby at Gipsy Point.

HOLIDAY PARK

Set amongst bushland but with easy access to the beach, the Shady Gully Caravan Park has cabins that can sleep up to six.

Although the Wave Oasis B&B is set up like a guesthouse, each small apartment is self-contained and feels quiet and private.

With apartments of different sizes, Gowings of Mallacoota is great for families or longer-stay visitors who’ll appreciate the amenities.

Away from the main town, the luxurious villas of Gipsy Point Lakeside offer views across the water and kangaroos grazing on the grass in front.

Mallacoota – Narooma

2h 20m of driving (200 km)

Crossing the border today, you’ll now be in New South Wales for the second half of this Melbourne to Sydney drive.

After passing along the edge of the (soon to be renamed) Ben Boyd National Park, you’ll hit the first of the coastal towns, Eden. From here, the scenic drive oscillates between the coast and the bush, giving you great views of the landscapes. There’s an inland highway that is a bit faster, or take the coastal road to see the townships along the way.

The NSW Far South Coast is a popular holiday region (although, because it’s a long drive from Sydney or Melbourne, tends to attract longer stays, rather than weekend visits). But this means there are lots of places to stop, things to do, and towns where you can stay overnight.

I’ve chosen Narooma as today’s destination, but any of the other nearby towns (such as Moruya or even Batemans Bay) are also great options.

If you’re looking for more than just a rest stop on this stretch of the drive, I would recommend heading to Pambula in time for one of Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tours .

The region is famous for its oyster industry and your guide will take you around Pambula Lake to show you the oyster farms and explain the whole process. You’ll even be able to taste a few of the local fresh oysters in a beautiful natural surrounding. You can read my story about the Pambula oyster tour .

Nearby Merimbula also makes for a lovely rest. And, just before you get to Narooma, hop out at Tilba Tilba to explore this gorgeous heritage town.

Narooma is a wonderful coastal town and you’ll immediately see why it’s such a popular holiday destination. Quiet and laidback, you can hang at the beach or go cycling along the coast track, and then refresh with excellent dining options like the Whale Inn and the Quarterdeck .

One of the best things to do in Narooma is a trip to Montague Island, which is home to hundreds of friendly seals. You can head out to the island on a boat and watch them safely from deck – or you can even jump in and swim with them, like I did.

The seals are really playful and this is a wonderful experience. You can read my story about swimming with the seals at Montague Island or you can check the availability of the tours.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN NAROOMA

There are quite a few longer-stay holiday homes in Narooma, but if you’re looking for somewhere easier for a night or two, these are my top suggestions.

The Surf Beach Narooma Holiday Park is comfortable and basic, but it’s got an incredible location right on the beach.

With large clean rooms, the Top of the Town Motor Inn also has a fantastic location right in the heart of all the action.

Just a few minutes from the beach, Horizon Apartments has modern self-contained units of different sizes.

The charming decor of Anchors Aweigh sets the scene for this quirky guesthouse where you’ll instantly feel right at home.

Narooma – Jervis Bay

Continuing up the New South Wales South Coast, you’ll start to go through some slightly larger towns with even more developed tourism infrastructure. But it’s all still beautifully laidback and, with the beaches and cafes, the whole region feels like a constant summer holiday.

I would suggest taking this stretch of the drive slowly and don’t be afraid to stop a few times along the way for a quick swim, a coffee, or even just a wander around town. There’s lots to see and do on the NSW South Coast .

Just after Moruya, you’ll reach Mogo Wildlife Park , which is famous for its work in breeding endangered animals. It may seem like an odd place for a zoo, but there’s an impressive collection of species here – including lions, giraffes, tamarins, gibbons, gorillas, and snow leopards.

The biggest town you’ll pass through today is Batemans Bay, which is certainly a good place to stop, with a large range of cafes and restaurants for lunch. If you’ve got a bit of time, you could do for a bushwalk in the Clyde River National Park, or rent a kayak for a paddle up the Clyde River.

Ulladulla also has good food options but if you’re looking for somewhere to eat around there, I would actually suggest continuing on to Milk Haus near Milton, where you’ll find a converted farmhouse with excellent coffee and meals.

My recommendation for tonight’s stop is Jervis Bay, another very popular tourist destination with lots to offer. Within Jervis Bay, there are several towns where you can base yourself – Huskisson is the main centre, Vincentia has lots of accommodation, and Hyams Beach is small but famous for its white sand.

In fact, the white sand at many of the beaches is one of the main attractions and it’s easy to just spend your time swimming and hanging out at the coast. But other activities include bushwalking, whale watching tours, and kayaking.

A wonderful part of Jervis Bay is Booderee National Park , which is one of just a handful of national parks administered by the Federal Government (like Kakadu National Park ). It has glistening white beaches, high cliffs, and crystal clear water for swimming. It’s also home to the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in the country.

I’ve got more details in my story about things to do in Jervis Bay . You’ll see why it’s such a popular destination during the school holidays.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN JERVIS BAY

The Jervis Bay accommodation is quite spread out, although there’s a lot around Huskisson and Vincentia. Holiday homes are popular for long stays, but I’ll recommend some easier options here.

A large site with a pool, playground and water access, Jervis Bay Holiday Park is a perfect option for families and casual holidays.

Right in the centre of Huskisson, the Jervis Bay Motel has modern comfortable rooms with easy access to restaurants.

BUSH COTTAGES

In a relaxing site amongst the gum trees, Bay and Bush Cottages has a series of cool unique accommodation options.

BEACH COTTAGES

The series of seven cute cottages at Hyams Beach Seaside Cottages are well-equipped and right on the coast for a wonderful boutique experience.

Jervis Bay – Sydney

3 hours of driving (200 km)

The final day of driving will take you anywhere from 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours, depending on the day and the time of the day. With that in mind, it’s worth trying to avoid arriving in Sydney during peak hour because the last stretch can get very slow with traffic.

You could just power through until the end, but there are still some wonderful things to see along this stretch. For the first part of the drive, you’ll continue through charming South Coast towns and there are a few that I would recommend for rest stops (and a little exploration).

The first option is Berry, an inland town full of heritage buildings and quaint stores and cafes. The main street is lined with gorgeous buildings and there are plenty of boutique shops with local produce or collections of homewares. Down the side streets, the chocolate shop and the tea shop are both very popular.

Further up the coast, Kiama is one of the most beautiful towns in the region, with great swimming beaches, calm azure rock pools, and large grassy slopes for picnics. There’s also the famous blowhole, where waves crash through and spray up into the air. There are lots of places to eat in the main part of town or near the big rock pool.

Or, if you want to get a bit more driving in before you stop, then Thirroul is a excellent option for a stop. It’s off the main highway so doesn’t get as much traffic as some other towns – although it’s become popular in recent years.

The beaches and pools are fantastic for a swim, there are more than a dozen options for good coffee, and you can even do a bit of a hike up the Illawarra Escarpment if you feel like getting sweaty! I’ve got more details here about things to do in Thirroul .

The final stretch of highway, past the Royal National Park, will be quite fast and there are no convenient places to stop, without doing a detour. But soon you’ll reach the southern edge of Sydney and begin to make your way through the suburbs.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY

You may find the city centre the most convenient location, but the neighbourhoods have a bit more character. For more details, see my story about where to stay in Sydney .

With views that you won’t believe belong to a hostel, the Sydney Harbour YHA in The Rocks is a pretty special hostel.

It’s quite a rare find in Sydney, but Megaboom City Hotel has great value rooms in the centre of the city – just don’t expect a large or modern space.

The incredible renovation of this pub has turned The Old Clare into one of Sydney’s coolest hotels, complete with a rooftop pool.

I think the Pullman Quay Grand is the best luxury hotel because of its harbourside location and beautiful apartments.

And that brings us to the end of the itinerary for this Melbourne to Sydney drive along the coast. I hope you can see why these are my suggested stops between Melbourne and Sydney, because I think each has its own special reasons to visit.

If you stay in each location for just the night, it’ll be a six-day road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. I would suggest trying to extend for a night or two, though, and spend a whole day in at least one of the stops – perhaps Metung, Mallacoota, or Jervis Bay.

Regardless, this is a wonderful way to see this part of Australia and the beautiful southeastern coast. Enjoy!

More Victoria stories

• The best places to visit in Victoria
• The top things to do in Melbourne
• The best museums in Melbourne
• Coastal itinerary for a Melbourne to Sydney drive
• The best things to do in Ballarat

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Melbourne to Sydney – a 7 day roadtrip

Melbourne to sydney for a 7 day roadtrip.

Do you want to see gorgeous beaches, beautiful national parks and unique Australian wildlife?  Now is the perfect time to take a 7 day roadtrip from Melbourne to Sydney.

The coastline between Sydney and Melbourne is some of the most spectacular in Australia.  With tranquil coves, long golden beaches and rocky shorelines you can swim, surf, sail and snorkel along the way.  You won’t forget this roadtrip.

Expect to take about 7 days to wind your way north towards Sydney but don’t rush it.  Take the time to enjoy the beautiful coastal towns along the way.

Your Melbourne to Sydney 7 day roadtrip

The journey is approximately 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) travelling through dozens of small towns, seaside villages and some of Australia’s famous beaches.

See dolphins, whales and penguins on this picturesque roadtrip between Melbourne to Sydney.  Pack a picnic lunch and find yourself a lookout to enjoy the spectacular views along the way.  Stop in at one of the cosy little beaches for a swim or laze your morning away enjoying the tranquility.

Things to do in Melbourne City

Start your adventure from Melbourne with a few suggestions of things to do before you start your roadtrip north to Sydney.

Melbourne is full of trendy little laneways with cafes, bars and quirky boutiques. There’s plenty of museums, galleries and street art that are worth checking out.  Make sure you explore the Street Art in Hosier Lane.

Take in a show, treat yourself to high tea at the Windsor or find a quaint little roof top bar to spend the afternoon.  There is always plenty to do in Melbourne city.

Read next:  Best Things to do in Melbourne

Day 1: Melbourne to Phillip Island – 2.5 hours drive time

The Peninsula is regarded as one of the region’s finest vineyards. You will find boutique cellar door wine tastings of cool climate varieties such as pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, pinot gris and tempranillo.

Overnight at Phillip Island , the home to little penguins, fur seals and koalas which can be often seen in the trees.

Be sure to go to Summerland Beach for the penguin parade at dusk when the penguins waddle up the beaches to their burrows.  Doing a penguin tour was one of our Phillip Island highlights.

Day 2:  Phillip Island to Wilsons Promontory – 1.75 hours drive time

While you’re at Phillip Island, take a wildlife cruise out to the Seal Rocks fur seal colony and be greeted by these inquisitive creatures. Get up close with furry friends along the boardwalks of the Koala Conservation Centre .

Explore the island’s wetlands with migratory birds, before heading towards the impressive granite cliffs and golden beaches of Cape Woolamai .

Enjoy a feast of fresh fish and chips while you take in the spectacular coastline of this seaside town, a popular stopover on the drive to Wilsons Promontory .

Wilsons Promontory is one of Victoria’s most picturesque national parks. Dramatic landscapes, deserted surf beaches and the pristine waterways of the Gippsland Lakes showcase this stunning part of Australia.

There are a number of accommodation options, luxury accommodation or safari-style tent or bring your own camping gear.

Day 3: Wilsons Promontory to Metung – 3.5 hours drive time

Wilsons Promontory National Park , is 50 thousand hectares of eucalypt forests, secluded coves, white sand beaches and granite outcrops.  Short drives and walks within the park lead to the many pristine beaches of this southern most tip of mainland Australia.

Walk to Squeaky Beach to experience the white quartz sand. Hear the sand squeak underfoot as you walk towards the maze of rock formations at the end of the beach.

Stop for a lunch in Foster , a small town surrounded by rolling hills, before continuing on to Yarram to see the heritage architecture from past days.

Lush farming landscapes continue on your way to Metung the gateway to the Gippsland Lakes region . Close to the ocean, this vast expanse of safe, protected inland lakes and rivers are ideal for fishing, boating and all kinds of watersports.

Metung has a friendly village atmosphere and the perfect spot to indulge in a night of waterfront luxury accommodation.

Day 4: Metung to Mallacoota – about 2.75 hours drive

Take a cruise through myriad lakes and rivers in Australia’s largest group of inland waterways.  Get close to native birds and watch the kangaroos grazing by the water’s edge.

Hire one of the small powered boats and try out the local fishing. Local species like bream, tailor, flathead and King George whiting are delicious and great fun to catch.

One of my favourite places on this roadtrip between Melbourne and Sydney is Lakes Entrance where the Gippsland Lakes enters the Southern Ocean.

Explore the spectacular Ninety Mile Beach and if you’re a seafood lover, it’s the perfect place to buy fresh seafood from the local fishing boats and take a picnic lunch at Cape Conran Coastal Park , an hour’s drive away.  Cape Conran Coastal Park is a beautiful camping and bushwalking area and home to kangaroos, koalas and emus.

Stop in at  Croajingolong National Park to explore the diversity of one of Victoria’s most spectacular national parks.

Spend the night at Gipsy Point Lakeside Resort , located on the banks of the Mallacoota Inlet.   It’s the perfect location to sit back, relax and listen to the sounds of the bush.

Day 5: Mallacoota to Narooma – 3 hours drive time

Take an early morning swim at Mallacoota’s popular Betka Beach or head off for an early  morning walk along the Narrows Walk before continuing north towards New South Wales.

Follow the spectacular Sapphire Coast and stop at Pambula to sample award-winning fresh oysters or enjoy freshly caught fish and chips along the foreshore.  Check out the popular surf beach at Tathra Beach .

This coastal strip features scenic rocky coves, bluffs and inlets as you head into Mimosa Rocks National Park . Take the opportunity to stop for a swim in the pure lagoons.

About an hour north is Tilba Tilba , a heritage town that has retained it’s character from 1890s gold rush era.  It’s a great place to stop and taste some of the region’s delicious cheeses.

Narooma is the perfect place for an overnight stopover and with Montague Island just 11 kilometres off-shore it’s an opportunity to visit the state’s only known colony of Australian fur seals. Take a cruise to the island for the chance to spot seals, sea eagles, little penguins, mutton birds, hawks, terns, silver gulls, harriers and peregrine falcons.

Day 6: Narooma to Jervis Bay – 2.5 hours drive time

Slip down to  Narooma’s Surf Beach for an early morning swim and check out the Glasshouse Rocks, ancient rock formations at southern end of the beach.

On your way north again, you’ll pass through lush forest until you reach the popular holiday spot of Batemans Bay . The area is renowned for its sublime coastline, amazing coves, gorgeous beaches and immaculate waters.

About 14 kilometres north of Batemans Bay, turn onto Mt Agony Road for an exceptional wildlife experience at Pebbly Beach . It’s likely you’ll meet friendly kangaroos as they hop along the beach. Generally quite tame, they are happy to be patted and if you’re lucky you might manage to get one to pose with you for a photo.

The next stop takes you into the coastal town of Ulladulla .  It’s a perfect place for a late lunch stop.

The calm waters and white sand of Jervis Bay lie just an hour north of Ulladulla. There’s an opportunity to join a Dolphin Watch Cruise for a truly unforgettable experience. Mingle with dolphins, penguins and humpback whales within the protected waters of the Jervis Bay Marine Park.  Check out the variety of accommodation in this beautiful little town.

Day 7: Jervis Bay to Sydney – 2.75 hours drive time

Spend the morning amid nature’s wonders in Jervis Bay National Park . With sensational coastal views, this birdwatching paradise takes you along the White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach to Hyams Beach . The full loop is an easy 2.5 kilometres (roughly an hour).

Feel nature’s force on the cliffs at Blowhole Point . Waves surge into an underground cavity, forcing upward to explode with great drama and noise into the air.

Consider taking an inland detour (approximately 25 minutes) to Kiama’s award-winning Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk . This incredible experience leads you 1500 metres through lush, temperate rainforest at up to 30 metres above ground, through the treetops.

The grand finale is the final leg into Sydney, touring along the winding and scenic Grand Pacific Drive .  Enjoy gorgeous views of the rocky coastline and stunning beaches as you drive along the winding Sea Cliff Bridge . This is one of the most beautiful drives of all!

Arriving in Sydney

There are plenty of things to see and do in Sydney so see as much as you can while visiting this amazing city.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and tour the Sydney Opera House which is recognised as a 20th-century architectural masterpiece and classified as a World Heritage site.

Check out the historic precincts of Sydney, such as The Rocks or take a ferry across the Harbour to the Manly beach.  Day trip up into the Blue Mountains or visit Taronga Park Zoo to see some of Australia’s most unusual critters and enjoy the buzz of this vibrant city.

Read next:  Guide to Sydney – Australia’s most vibrant city  

Where to stay?

Australia is surrounded by some of the best beaches in the world.  Its no wonder they call Australia ‘the lucky country’!

So, what are you waiting for? 

A roadtrip from melbourne to sydney is one of my most favourite drives.  pack your bag and hit the road for an roadtrip experience of a lifetime   have you had taken any other roadtrips throughout australia  , related articles more from author.

Drive Adelaide to Darwin – the Photo Essay

Driving from Brisbane to Cairns in 21 days

A Guide to Sydney – Australia’s most Vibrant City

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