I love a good road trip. There’s something about having no set schedule, just the open road ahead and the freedom to pull over whenever something catches your eye. It’s my favourite way to travel – slow, flexible, and full of surprises.
Since I’m in Australia, I’ve been thinking about one of its most famous drives, the coastal route from Sydney to Melbourne.
It’s known as the Grand Pacific Drive (or the Princes Highway route), and from what I’ve seen, it’s got everything I love about a great road trip: stunning beaches, wildlife, small-town charm, and plenty of spots to stop, stretch, and soak it all in.
I haven’t done this one yet, but I’ve been deep in research mode, mapping out detours, pinpointing the best stopovers, and noting which beaches are worth a paddle.
If you’re thinking about this drive too, or just looking for some Aussie travel inspiration, here are the places that have made it onto my must-visit list.
Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay (200 km / ~2.5 hours)
If you’re going to do a road trip, this is a pretty spectacular way to start, leaving one of the world’s most famous cities and heading straight into national parks and jaw-dropping coastal views.
Day one is all about easing into the journey, slowing down, taking in the scenery, and shaking off any lingering city rush.
First Stops: Royal National Park & Sea Cliff Bridge
Not long after leaving Sydney, you’ll hit Royal National Park, where it’s worth pulling over for a walk. Within minutes, you’ll feel like you’re miles from anywhere – just bushland, ocean views, and that fresh eucalyptus-scented air.
Next up is Sea Cliff Bridge, a stretch of road that clings to the cliffs with the ocean rolling beneath it. I haven’t seen it in person yet, but from the photos, it’s the kind of place where you have to stop, take a deep breath, and say, Alright, this is why I love road trips.
Tea (or Coffee) Break in Wollongong
No road trip is complete without a decent tea stop, and Wollongong makes a solid first pit stop. It’s a laid-back coastal city with plenty of cafés, plus a beach that’s perfect for stretching your legs.
If I were there, I’d grab an English Breakfast with milk, find a spot by the water, and let the sea breeze do its thing.
Destination: Jervis Bay
This is where I’d want to spend most of my day.
Jervis Bay is famous for its blindingly white sand beaches – Hyams Beach being the star of the show. But what’s really caught my eye is Booderee National Park.
It’s not just about beaches here; there are bush trails, secluded coves, and even the chance to spot wildlife like kangaroos and colourful birdlife.
Jo’s Philosophy on Day One Travel
For me, the first day of any trip is about easing into the journey. It’s tempting to rush through, ticking off stops and covering as much ground as possible, but I’ve learned that starting slow sets the tone for the rest of the trip.
- Take time to enjoy the small moments: the first coffee stop, the views from a lookout, or even a chat with a local.
- Resist the urge to cram everything in; you’ll have more energy to enjoy the journey tomorrow.
- And most importantly, leave room for spontaneity. If you see a hidden beach sign or a market stall by the side of the road, stop. These unplanned moments are often the most memorable.
Work-Friendly Stop for Digital Nomads
If you’re traveling while juggling work (as I often do), Wollongong is a great spot to catch up. With plenty of beachfront cafés and Wi-Fi-friendly locations, you can send off an email or two while enjoying the view.
Personally, I’d aim to get any work done here early in the day, so I could fully relax by the time I hit Jervis Bay.
A Thought for 50+ Travellers
This drive isn’t just about beautiful sights – it’s about pace and comfort too. Day one offers gentle walks, scenic lookouts, and plenty of opportunities to sit and take it all in.
Whether it’s a stroll across the Sea Cliff Bridge or a quiet afternoon on a Jervis Bay beach, it’s an ideal start for anyone who loves travel but wants to avoid high-energy, go-go-go itineraries.
Day 2: Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay (140 km / ~1.5 hours)
After easing into the journey on Day 1, Day 2 is about diving deeper into coastal charm and wildlife-filled adventures.
Morning Highlights: Dolphin Spotting in Jervis Bay
Before leaving Jervis Bay, I’d start my morning on the water. The area is known for its dolphin and whale-watching cruises, and I’ve read that the best time to spot them is early in the day.
Lunch Stop: Ulladulla
A couple of hours south lies Ulladulla, a laid-back seaside town that seems to have mastered the art of “coastal chill.”
It’s well-known for its seafood—so if that’s your thing, you’ll have plenty of options. As for me, I’d be hunting down a good café or a spot with something a little less fishy (I’m not a big seafood fan). Either way, a walk around the harbour afterward sounds like the perfect way to stretch the legs.
If you’re like me and love to explore beyond the obvious, Ulladulla also has a few hidden beaches and coastal trails that look worth a detour.