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Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)

June 8, 2020 by Jen Lyons Leave a Comment

Australia’s mainland has more than 35,000 kms of coastline to explore and some of the country’s best can be found in between Sydney and Melbourne.

From spectacular beaches to quaint coastal country towns, the NSW South Coast and Victorian Gippsland Coast offer something for everyone.

With lots to see and do, where do you start planning your Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary.

First, you need to work out how long you want to go for. From there you can determine how many places you’ll be able to fit into your time. However if you want to see all the best bits in one trip, my suggestion would be to allow at least two weeks.

If you don’t have quite as much time to spend then you can use this itinerary and pick parts out of the trip to explore at different times. And if you are departing from Melbourne, all you have to do is reverse the itinerary, simple!

Hiring a Vehicle

First thing you will need is a vehicle. If you live in Sydney/Melbourne or nearby, you’ll likely have your own car. If you will be flying into Sydney or Melbourne you’ll need to hire a car, campervan or caravan.

There is plenty of different types of accommodation available on the route to accommodate those travelling both by car and by campervan or caravan. Holiday parks with space for campervans, caravans and campers are in abundance in most towns along the coast.

A car will give you more freedom to park on the side of the road to discover something new. While campervan’s and caravans are your home on wheels. There are pros and cons to both options.

Which ever option you choose, Expedia has great car, campervan and caravan hire options with comparative prices. Most offer one way hire options too.

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Day 1 to 3 – Sydney to Jervis Bay

The drive from Sydney to Huskisson (the main town on Jervis Bay) is under three hours, depending on where in Sydney you are leaving from. Leave early which will allow you plenty of time for exploration along the way. Here are a few of my suggested stops.

  • The Royal National Park – One of the oldest National Parks in the world, there is heaps to explore here and you could quite easily spend a week just seeing everything in the park. For this trip I’d suggest driving through the park rather than taking the highway south. Maybe make a stop at the Audley Boatshed for a coffee or short walk at Wattamolla.

Wattamolla in the Royal National Park - The Trusted Traveller

  • The Grand Pacific Drive – This is a beautiful stretch of coastal road with stunning beaches and breathtaking bridges that allow you to drove over the ocean away from the sheer cliffs above. You can read more about some of my favourite spots on the Grand Pacific Drive here.

Sea Cliff Bridge on the Grand Pacific Drive - The Trusted Traveller

  • Wollongong – The 10th biggest city in Australia, don’t let this put you off as most of the city is facing the coast and has a really relaxed vibe. Wollongong is a great place to stop halfway through your drive to Kiama to have a dip in the ocean and grab a bite to each for lunch. There are lots of great cafes, restaurants and take-away stores along the beaches.

Norhtbeach, Wollongong - The Trusted Traveller

  • Kiama – This sleepy seaside town is packed full of restaurants, cafes, boutique shopping and of course beautiful beaches. Check out the famous Blowhole, Terrace and Sandstone Walk Shops and those aforementioned beaches.

Kiama Blowhole - The Trusted Traveller

  • Berry – One of the top quaint towns in NSW, in Berry you will find plenty of great places to eat, lovely little local shops selling locally made items and some top pubs. If you are there for breakfast or morning tea, check out the Milkwood Bakery or for lunch the meals at the Great Southern Hotel are always great. Just a few minutes drive from the main street is the Berry Treat Factory, a great place to stock up on treats for the long road trip ahead.

Quaint shops in Berry - The Trusted Traveller

  • Shoalhaven Heads – The quintessential sleepy seaside town. A nice place for a stroll to stretch the legs after being in the car. The Shoalhaven River meets the sea here so you get the best of both worlds, nice river and ocean views.

Shoalhaven Heads - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is a year round destination fringed with stunning beaches, pristine national and marine park and quaint little towns with an abundance of delicious places to eat and drink. The whole area has a very chilled out vibe with lots to see and do for all ages.

  • Booderee National Park – Home to some the the areas most stunning beaches like Caves Beach and Murray’s Beach where you might run into a few of the local kangaroos who like to hang out in the car park. This National Park also has some great short walks, ruins and lovely Botanical Gardens. You could easily spend a day or more just exploring this park.

Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, Australia

  • White Sands Walk – Beginning at Greenfield Beach picnic area this walk takes you on a loop past some of the best white sand beaches on the bay including world famous Hyam’s Beach, said to have the whitest sand int he world. The whole loop takes about an hour and is relatively flat, so good for most fitness levels.

Hyams Beach in jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • See Whales and Dolphins – During whale season (roughly June to November), these majestic creatures like to make their way into the bay and sometimes put on a bit of a show. However, if you’re not in the area during whale season then you can still see the amazing dolphins that live in the bay. The best way to see these creatures is on a cruise, check out some option in the box below.

A pod of Dolphins in Jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – On the northern end of Jervis Bay, this lighthouse offers spectacular views looking out over the bay and through the opening out to sea. You can even make out the white sands of the beaches that rim the bay.

Point Perpendicular Lighthouse view - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Nearby St Georges Basin – Just 10 minutes from Huskisson (the main town in Jervis Bay) is St Georges Basin, a shallow lake home to some of the regions most beautiful flora and fauna. From Erowal Bay and the few towns along the Basin you’ll be able to go fishing, see flocks of birds take off and land on the still water and watch kangaroos lazing by the shore just before sunset. Its one of the most peaceful places on earth.

St Georges Basin - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Suggested Jervis Bay Tours

2 Hour Whale Watching Cruise – scenic whale watching cruise from mid May to mid November on Jervis Bay.

1.5 Hour Dolphin Cruise – visiting Jervis Bay outside of whale season, join this spectacular dolphin cruise instead.

Where to Stay in Jervis Bay

Budget
Huskisson Holiday Cabins
Studio bungalows with kitchenette, air-con and some featuring a patio. Just a five minute walk to the beach and centre of town.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast
Just two minutes walk from the beach. Accommodation includes breakfast and access to the outdoor dining area including spa, pizza oven and BBQ.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Ceespray on Owen
Luxury B&B style accommodation surrounded by tropical gardens. Luxurious rooms with private bathrooms and access to communal kitchen, dining and outdoor spaces.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches

Things to Do in Kiama and Surrounds

Long Weekend Travel: 5 Easy Trips from Sydney

Exploring the Grand Pacific Drive

Walking the Sea Cliff Bridge

Day 4 to 5 – Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay

Heading further south in the morning from Jervis Bay, the drive to Batemans Bay is about two hours with lots of beach stops and detours along the way.

  • Lake Conjola – On the lake of the same name, this sleepy little town is a short detour from the highway and a great place to grab a coffee and stretch your legs with a walk along the lake front.
  • Milton – A little further south on the highway is the historic town of Milton which is packed with art galleries, antiques and, surprisingly for the location, fine dining restaurants. Grab a treat from the Heritage Bakery at the very least.
  • Mollymook – Popular holiday spot for families in summer, I love the beach here which is patrolled during summer and great for a swim or surf. The town also has some great beach cafes and fish and chip shops, so this could be a good place to grab a late breakfast or lunch.

Mollymook Beach - The Trusted Traveller

  • Pretty Beach in the Murramarang National Park – Taking the Bawley Point turn off from the highway, this slightly longer detour is worth it for the stunning and secluded beach you’ll find at the end, Pretty Beach. From Pretty Beach there are lots of walks you can do, keeping your eye out for kangaroos in the grass. Also a great spot for a picnic.

What to See & Do in Batemans Bay

Arriving in Batemans Bay will be the start of your adventures in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. Famous for amazing beaches and waterways perfect of outdoor activities and food, incredible local sourced food. The countryside through the whole region is rolling hills with grazing cows on the right as you head south and aqua blue ocean on the left.

  • Oysters! – The Clyde River which runs right through Batemas Bay is home to plenty of oyster leases meaning an abundance of local oysters for you to eat. My favourite spot to grab and oyster is The Oyster Shed on Wray St where you will get the freshest oysters served either on the deck over looking the river or for takeaway.

Eat oysters at The Oyster Shed - The Trusted Traveller

  • Mogo – 10 minutes south of Batemans Bay is the tiny town of Mogo. The street is lined with quaint antique and crafty stores as well as a few great places to grab a bite to eat, maybe even a locally made cake. While in Mogo, check out the zoo there which has a great reputation for the protection of endangered species, you can even feed a giraffe!

Mogo - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Hit the Beach – There are lots of beaches around Batemans Bay. My favourite would have to be McKenzies Beach in Malua Bay, just south of town on the coastal tourist drive. Its less crowded and has beautiful semi enclosed surrounding cliffs.

McKenzies Beach, Malua Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • Mossy Point – On the coastal tourist drive south of Batemans Bay is this lovely little coastal township where the Tomago River meets the sea. Down by the river mouth you can hire a kayak and paddle up the river spotting sting rays as they glide under the kayak. It is pristine beauty.

Kayaking at Mossy Point - The Trusted Traveller

  • Durras Discovery Trail – Just north of Batemans Bay off the highway is the southern part of the Murramarang National Park where you will find this 1.5km loop walk through the rainforest. It is a great escape from the beaches in summer with temperatures generally lower in the rainforest.

Where to Stay in Batemans Bay

Budget
Shady Willows Holiday Park & Batemans Bay YHA
Accommodation ranging from dorm rooms to private cabins. Facilities within the property include a pool, BBQ area, communal kitchen and playground for the kids.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
T
Bridge Motel
Simple yet comfortable motel style accommodation featuring an onsite pool and BBQ area. Short drive into the centre of town and the beaches. Perfect for short stays.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Bay Breeze Boutique Motel
Located on the promenade just steps for the restaurants and shops. Their luxury two bedroom apartment overlooks the river and is fully fitted with everything you could need including an amazing double shower.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

The terrace - Bay Breeze Boutique Motel: Luxury on the Eurobodalla Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

Bay Breeze Boutique Motel: Luxury on the Eurobodalla Coast

Things to Do in Eurobodalla on the NSW South Coast

Day 6 to 7 – Batemans Bay to Merimbula

Again, make an early start to allow yourself plenty of time for stops along the way with stunning part of the coastline between Batemans Bay and Merimbula. The drive, without stops is only just over two hours. Check out some of the following places on your way through.

  • Moruya Heads – A sleepy coastal town with great Tuesday local farmers markets and beautiful views where the Moruya River meets the sea.

Sage Farmers Market - The Trusted Traveller

  • Coila Prawns – If you love prawns, a stop at the service station on the highway here will allow you to buy some of the freshest prawns you can get. These are not just any prawns though, they are Coila Lake prawns which are small, sweet and delicious, with the prawns completing their entire lifestyle in enclosed waters, which is rare.
  • Tuross Head – Another lovely sleepy town along the coast and probably one of my favourites. There’s a great short tourist drive you can do around Tuross Head if you don’t have much time here. It takes in all the best spots around town including some lovely lookout spots.

Tuross Beach, Tuross Head - The Trusted Traveller

  • Bodalla Dairy Shed – Cheese and dairy lovers will be in heaven in this place. Here you can taste and buy locallly made dairy products include the Bodalla Cheese Company. I especially like their saltbush cheese for something different and don’t forget to grab a deliciously fresh milkshake for the road.

Cheese Tasting in the Bodalla Dairy Shed - The Trusted Traveller

  • Dalmeny Drive Detour – Not long before arriving in Narooma, you can turn off the highway and continue the rest of the way along the coastal Dalmeny Road for beautiful beaches and coastal views. There is also a coastal walking path which you can walk part of to stretch your legs after the drive.
  • Narooma – Narooma is gateway to some of the best beaches, snorkeling and wildlife on the NSW South Coast. Set on the Wagonga Inlet, it is a popular place for family holidays, fishing and lazy days at the beach.
  • Tilba Tilba – Similar to Mogo, this historic little town is home to some quaint little galleries and antique shops as well as cafes selling local produce.

Tilba - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Camel Rock – One of the oldest rocks known in NSW. Access the beach of the same name via the car park and take a walk along the beach to see the rock which is, as the name says, shaped like a camel.

Camel Rock - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Bermagui Pacific Drive – A short drive around this coastal town where you can visit Dickinson Point for spectacular ocean views or take a dip in the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool that shines sapphire colour on a sunny day.

Bermagui - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Tathra – Head into this sleepy fishing town to walk out on the famous pier and grab some fish and chips while enjoying the peace and lovely views.

Tathra - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Merimbula

The heart of the Sapphire Coast, Merimbula is lively coastal village surrounded by pristine marine and national parks. There is an abundance of things to see and do for those who love being outdoors and lots to keep the foodies happy too.

  • Ben Boyd National Park – Named after entrepreneur, Ben Boyd, the park was first established in 1973 and encompasses an area of over 10,000 hectares. It’s the perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers to explore with plenty of excellent walking tracks, interesting geological features and structures, beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot wildlife. You could easily spend a day or more exploring the park.

The Pinnacles - The Trusted Traveller

  • Enjoy the Beaches – Right in the heart of town you will find great beaches to relax and enjoy some water sports. For something a bit quieter, head further south to Pambula or Eden. 

Haycock Point Beach- The Trusted Traveller

  • More Oysters! – If you haven’t had your fill of this delicious morsels yet then you are in the right place. Pambula oysters are among some of the best in Australia. While you can buy them all over the region fresh, it doesn’t come fresher than joining Sponge on his Magical Oyster Tour around his Pambula River oyster leases. He will even pull an oyster fresh from the water for you to try. Read more about my tour experience with Sponge here.

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - The Trusted Traveller

  • Whale Watching – From September to November each year humpback whales can be seen off the Sapphire Coast making their way south to Antarctica for the summer. There are of course lots of places where you can spot them from the shore but the best way to get up close to these incredible creatures is on cruise.
  • Take a Walk – There a many great walks around the Sapphire Coast for all fitness levels:
    • Merimbula Boardwalk that starts from right in the heart of Merimbula and follows the water’s edge for 3.4 km to Lakeview Drive;
    • Eden Boardwalk takes you around Curalo Lake and along Aslings Beach for about 6km; and
    • Mt Imlay is a challenging half day walk to the summit is 6 km of steep track that requires a bit of rock climbing and scrambling. Your efforts are rewarded at the top with nice views of the surrounding area.

Eden Boardwalk - The Trusted Traveller

Where to Stay in Merimbula

Budget

wandarrahWandarrah Lodge
Located just a 2-minute walk from the beach, Wandarrah Lodge offers a games room, free WiFi, communal TV lounge, kitchen and a terrace with a BBQ area. All rooms include access to shared bathroom facilities and private rooms are available. Book Now

Mid Range

seashellsSeashells Apartments
Just 4-minutes walk from the beach, Seashells offers self-contained apartments with free WiFi and a private patio or balcony. On-site, guests enjoy a solar-heated pool and BBQ. Apartments are air-conditioned with a laundry, fully equipped kitchen and spacious living area with a flat-screen TV. Book Now

Luxury

albacoreAlbacore Apartments
Located 10-minutes walk from the beach, all apartments are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen cable TV and fully equipped kitchen. Most have a private balcony with views across Merimbula Lake. Guests can enjoy the on-site BBQ and outdoor heated pool. Book Now

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodation

7 Eurobodalla Culinary Delights That Should Not Be Missed

Day 8 to 9 – Merimbula to Mallacoota

Just a hop, skip, jump over the boarder into Victoria from Merimbula and you are in Mallacoota in under an hour and a half. Break up the drive by exploring Ben Boyd National Park (mentioned above) on the way if you didn’t have time while in Merimbula.

What to See & Do in Mallacoota

This sleepy little East Gippsland town in the far east of the state is what I believe to be one of Australia’s best kept secrets. It is a peaceful haven located quite literally in the middle of nowhere which is why it has stayed virtually untouched. If you love fishing, swimming, walking, wildlife and generally being in the great outdoors, then Mallacoota is a place you will want to check out when exploring Australia.

  • Croajingolong National Park – A UNESCO world biosphere reserve, the Croajingolong National Park features 100km of rugged and unspoilt coastline and covers 87,500 hectares. Within the park is a thousand year old pristine eucalypt forest and rainforest that combine to give you a very unique glimpse of wilderness. The park is home to more than 300 different types of birds and over 1000 native plant species which you can see on nature hikes, beach walks or while camping.

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

  • Fishing – Mallacoota is a one of the best places for fishing in Australia with a wide abundance of fish regularly caught including tailor, luderick, perch, garfish and mulloway. You can pick up a fishing licence, bait and tackle from the bait shop in town and find a nice quiet spot along the waterfront to through a line in.

Where to Stay in Mallacoota

Budget

Shady Gully Caravan Park
Basic cabins with shared facilities perfect for a short stay. Facilities on-site include swimming pool, BBQ area, playground and laundry. A short drive to the lakes and rivers.
Book, check availability and prices
One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Moderate

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller
The Wave Oasis B&B
Set in lovely tropical gardens, this B&B offers self contained accommodation with kitchen, dining area and laundry. It is just a short walk to the centre of town and the waterfront.
Book, check availability and prices

Luxury

Gipsy Point Lakeside
Nestled on the banks of the Mallacoota Inlet, this luxury property includes swimming poo and free kayak hire. The property is a short drive to national parks and Mallacoota town.
Book, check availability and prices
One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More
Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria

Day 10 to 12 – Mallacoota to Gippsland Lakes

Another short drive, just two and half hours between Mallacoota and Lakes Entrance, the main town of the Gippsland Lakes. You can make a few detours on the way to Cape Conran, Marlo and Orbost.

What to See & Do in the Gippsland Lakes

The Gippsland Lakes cover an area of 345 square kms joining the rivers Avon, Thomson, Latrobe, Mitchell, Nicholson and Tambo that fill the lakes, marshes, and lagoons. The lakes are popular for boating, fishing, and camping. I recommend basing yourself in the Lakes Entrance area as there are lots of accommodation options and it also provides you with easy access to the whole area.

  • Silt Jetties – These naturally forming narrow banks of silt stretch for 8kms into the Gippsland Lakes and are located near Eagle Point where they form the mouth of the Mitchel River.  You can drive out onto the silt jetties on an unsealed road where you will find lots of people fishing.

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

  • Paynesville & Raymond Island – Known as the boating capital of Victoria, Paynesville is a great place to get out on the water or enjoy activities around the foreshore. Explore the lakes and canals on foot or cruise or take the Raymond Island Ferry across to the home of a large koala population on Raymond Island. Once on Raymond Island, you can walk or cycle the island’s Koala Trail and spot the resident koala’s which are usually seen sleeping high up in a gum tree.

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

  • Take a Lake Cruise – The most popular way to enjoy the Gippsland Lakes is on a cruise. Various cruises leave from the towns of Paynesville, Metung, Loch Sport and Lakes Entrance making them very accessible to all visitors. Each cruise has a slightly different route but all offer the same picture perfect views.

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

  • Metung – The charming village of Metung is probably one of my favourite parts of the Gippsland region. It is great for scenic walks along the lake,  fantastic local food including a great monthly farmers market and unique coastal themed galleries. As with the most of the region, it is also a popular spot for fishing with the lakes side and wharf’s usually lined with people casting out a line.

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

  • Buchan Caves – These caves a short 45 minutes drive north of Lakes Entrance and are some of the best publicly accessible caves in Victoria. Here you will find two limestone caves that are accessible to the public through a guided tour, the Fairy Cave and the Royal Cave. The reserve around the cave is absolutely stunning, especially in Autumn. Have a picnic or hike one of the trails that lead off from the picnic grounds, just make sure you keep an eye out for wildlife, there is an abundance in the area. 

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria - The Trusted Traveller

Where to Stay in the Gippsland Lakes

Budget

Bamboo Motor Inn
Great budget friendly option with many room configurations. Rooms come with tea and coffee making facilities and flat-screen tv. Located on the Esplanade for easy of getting around town.
Book, check availability and prices
One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Moderate

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller
Big4 Whiters Holiday Village
Fully equipped airconditioned cabins with access to a huge array of on-site facilities such as heated swimming pool, spa, tennis and basketball court, BBQ area and games room.
Book, check availability and prices

Luxury

Bellevue On The Lakes
Modern luxury accommodation in the heart of Lakes Entrance featuring two swimming pools and air-conditioned accommodation. Some suites include a spa on the balcony.
Book, check availability and prices
 One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Day 13 to 14 – Gippsland Lakes to Wilsons Promontory

From the Gippsland Lakes you have two routes you can take to get the Wilsons Promontory. Drive time is about 3.5 to four hours depending on the route.

  • Coastal Route – On this route you will be able to take two short detours to stop off at spectacular 90 Mile Beach which is the fourth longest beach in the world and Corrigans Suspension Bridge in the Tarra Bulga National Park.
  • Inland Route – On this route, take a small detour to visit the charming historical reconstructed mining town of Walhalla.

Things to See & Do in Wilsons Promontory

Wilsons Promontory National Park is on a peninsula southeast of Melbourne. It is known for its rugged granite mountains, abundant wildlife and excellent hiking trails. Trails from the town of Tidal River lead to Squeaky Beach, with its white quartz sand. Nearby, Mount Oberon offers views of Bass Strait and offshore islands. While you are there, also check out the lightstation, built in 1859 and The Big Drift, a series of giant sand dunes you can hike over.

  • Hikes – There are lots of great hikes and shorter walks you can tackle during your time in Wilsons Promontory. The visitors centre in the park will be able to provide you with maps and more info, however some of the best include; Sealers Cove, a one-day 19km walk through temperate rainforest an secluded beaches; Loo Errn Boardwalk to see an abundance of wildlife; hike to the top of Mt Oberon for sunset; and Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk, perfect for a cloudy day walk through the rainforest.

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Cruise to Refuge Cove – Accessible only via the water, enjoy this seculdued cove that is full of marine life, bird life and native animals on a cruise which departs daily. Check out the Refuge Cove Cruises website for more details.
  • Ranger Talk – Head to the Visitors Centre to learn more about the biodiversity and history of the region with a ranger talk. 

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • The Beaches – As a coastal peninsula you will find an abundance of white sand beaches to explore. Some of the best include Squeaky Beach, Norman Beach and Whisky Bay.
  • The Big Drift – These massive white sand dunes are great for exploring on foot on a calm day. Take along a boogie board or large piece of cardboard and go sledding down the steep dune sand hills.

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Explore Fish Creek – The main town of Wilsons Promontory is packed full of galleries, bookshops and even a winery. Make sure you stop by, grab a bit to eat at one of the cafes and enjoy the atmosphere of this tiny creative town.
Suggested Tours in Wilsons Promontory
2.5 Hour Wilderness Cruise – discover the beautiful granite coastline and unique wildlife in a custom-built amphibious boat.

Where to Stay in Wilsons Promontory

Budget

Tidal River Campgroup
This well equipped campground is a short walk to the beach and is nestled in the tea trees. You’ll find camp sites and caravan sites all with access to shared facilities including camp kitchen.
Book, check availability and prices here
One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Moderate

One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller
Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages
Located in the town of Yanakie, these fully-equipped cottages have a sitting area and private bathroom facilities. There is also a communal BBQ and easy access to hiking and the National Park.
Book, check availability and prices here

Luxury

Limosa Rise
Located in Tanakie, Limosa Rise units are each equipped with patio, fully equipped itchen, fireplace, seating area and plush bedroom and bathroom. The national park is just over 20km drive.
Book, check availability and prices here
One Week Gippsland Victoria Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.


Getting Back to Sydney/Melbourne

If this is your first time visiting Sydney to Melbourne, I suggest allowing yourself some extra time at either end of the trip to explore these great Aussie cities too.

You have a few options to get back to Sydney or Melbourne once your road trip is over.

The quickest way is of course the fly but wheres the adventure in that!

You can also drive the inland route via the Victorian High Country, Albury, the NSW Snowy Mountains, Canberra and the Southern Highlands. If you have a few more days to spare on your holiday, you can make a few stops along the way in these regions. Driving straight without stops, this route will take about 10 hours.

Read More

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in the NSW Snowy Mountains

How to Climb Mt Kosciuszko (outside of winter)

35 Free Things to Do in Sydney

48 Hours in Sydney: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Sydney’s Best Markets

Getting Around Sydney

Sydney’s Best Beaches: The Ultimate List

25 Free Things to Do in Melbourne

The Best Annual Events in Melbourne

Things to Do in Melbourne

PIN THIS FOR LATER!

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller
Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Over to you!

Which part of this Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary are you most looking forward to exploring?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Filed Under: Suggested Itineraries Tagged With: Australia, Batemans Bay, Eurobodalla, Gippsland, Gippsland Lakes, Jervis Bay, Lakes Entrance, Mallacoota, Melbourne, Merimbula, New South Wales, NSW, Oceania, Sapphire Coast, Sydney, VIC, Victoria, Wilsons Promontory

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

April 6, 2020 by Jen Lyons Leave a Comment

For those who live in Sydney, a road trip down the NSW South Coast is pretty much a rite of passage. I have many fond memories from my childhood, and during my adult life, of holidays visiting parts of this stunning and often underrated part of Australia.

The NSW South Coast is generally quieter than travelling north from Sydney. The beaches more untouched, the towns more quaint and the local produce in abundance. It ticks all the boxes for all kinds of trips, from family holidays, couple road trips and friend group getaways.

With lots to see and do, where do you stay with planning your NSW South Coast road trip itinerary.

First, you need to work out how long you want to go for. From there you can determine how many places you’ll be able to fit into your time. However if you want to see all the best bits in one trip, my suggestion would be to allow at least two weeks.

If you don’t have quite as much time to spend then you can use this itinerary and pick parts out of the trip to explore at different times.

Hiring a Vehicle

First thing you will need is a vehicle. If you live in Sydney or nearby, you’ll likely have your own car. If you will be flying into Sydney you’ll need to hire a car, campervan or caravan.

There is plenty of different types of accommodation available on the NSW South Coast to accommodate those travelling both by car and by campervan or caravan. Holiday parks with space for campervans, caravans and campers are in abundance in most towns along the coast.

A car will give you more freedom to park on the side of the road to discover something new. While campervan’s and caravans are your home on wheels. There are pros and cons to both options.

Which ever option you choose, Expedia has great car, campervan and caravan hire options with comparative prices.

NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary Map - The Trusted Traveller

Day 1 to 2 – Sydney to Kiama

Set off from Sydney in the early morning to allow plenty of time for stops along the way to Kiama, the first destination on this two week NSW South Coast road trip.

Sydney to Kiama Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Things to See Between Sydney and Kiama

Leaving Sydney you have many options for places to stop and explore along the way. In order below is a list of some of my favourites:

  • The Royal National Park – One of the oldest National Parks in the world, there is heaps to explore here and you could quite easily spend a week just seeing everything in the park. For this trip I’d suggest driving through the park rather than taking the highway south. Maybe make a stop at the Audley Boatshed for a coffee or short walk at Wattamolla.

Wattamolla in the Royal National Park - The Trusted Traveller

  • The Grand Pacific Drive – This is a beautiful stretch of coastal road with stunning beaches and breathtaking bridges that allow you to drove over the ocean away from the sheer cliffs above. You can read more about some of my favourite spots on the Grand Pacific Drive here.

Sea Cliff Bridge on the Grand Pacific Drive - The Trusted Traveller

  • Wollongong – The 10th biggest city in Australia, don’t let this put you off as most of the city is facing the coast and has a really relaxed vibe. Wollongong is a great place to stop halfway through your drive to Kiama to have a dip in the ocean and grab a bite to each for lunch. There are lots of great cafes, restaurants and take-away stores along the beaches.

Norhtbeach, Wollongong - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Kiama

The sleepy town of Kiama is the perfect place the stay the night. This lively town is full of restaurants, cafes and boutique shopping as well as some must see attractions around the area.

  • The Blowhole – This natural phenomena is basically a hole in the volcanic rock that stoats water metres into the air when the sea rushes underneath. It is said to be at its best when the seas run from the south east but having been there dozens of times myself, I haven’t left disappointed regardless of the sea direction.

Kiama Blowhole - The Trusted Traveller

  • Kiama Seaside Markets – Kiama hosts two monthly markets, on the third Sunday of the month for handmade goods and the other on the fourth Saturday of the month selling local produce.
  • Terrace and Sandstone Walk shops – This small collection of shops are housed in restored timber houses circa 1886 which are the last of their kind. They were originally built by the local miners and today house boutique shops, restaurants and cafes.

The Terrace and Sandstone Walk Shops in Kiama - The Trusted Traveller

  • Kiama Coast Walk – This 20 km walk along a sign posted coastal track takes you from Minnamurra Village through Kiama and finishes at Werri Beach in Gerringong, south of Kiama. You can do the walk in sections or complete it in a whole day.
  • The Beaches – Kiama has some fantastic beaches for all occasions. Looking to spend the day relaxing and swimming, head to Surf Beach which is patrolled; wanting to escape and have a beach all to yourself, check out Jones Beach which is also a great spot to see the Cathedral Rocks; endless stretches of sand can be found at Seven Mile Beach just south of Kiama in Gerroa; or my personal favourite Werri Beach where you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the locals surfers in action.

Jones Beach, Kiama Downs - The Trusted Traveller

  • Jamberoo – Famous for the water park of the same name, there is more to Jamberoo than waterslide. A nice short countryside drive inland from Kiama, Jamberoo has weekend markets, quaint stores and a small array of excellent cafes.

Where to Stay in Kiama

Budget
Kiama Shores Motel
Comfortable motel style accommodation close to the main street, shops, restaurants and beaches and featuring an outdoor pool, cable TV and free parking.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
Big Easts Beach Holiday Park
Holiday park featuring cabin and villa accommodation with full cooking facilities and loads of entertainment options for the kids. Walking distance to Easts Beach.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Terralong Terrace Apartments
Self-contained one, two and three bedroom apartments with full amenities and steps from the main street shops, restaurants and beaches.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

Things to Do in Kiama and Surrounds

Long Weekend Travel: 5 Easy Trips from Sydney

Exploring the Grand Pacific Drive

Walking the Sea Cliff Bridge

Day 3 to 5 – Kiama to Jervis Bay

Kiama to Jervis Bay Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

The drive from Kiama to Jervis Bay isn’t far, taking less than an hour. You can have a late start and make a few stops along the way. There are two routes you can take, first along the highway or take the detour through the coastal towns of Gerringong, Gerroa and Shoalhaven Heads.

  • Berry – One of the top quaint towns in NSW, in Berry you will find plenty of great places to eat, lovely little local shops selling locally made items and some top pubs. If you are there for breakfast or morning tea, check out the Milkwood Bakery or for lunch the meals at the Great Southern Hotel are always great. Just a few minutes drive from the main street is the Berry Treat Factory, a great place to stock up on treats for the long road trip ahead.

Quaint shops in Berry - The Trusted Traveller

  • Shoalhaven Heads – The quintessential sleepy seaside town. A nice place for a stroll to stretch the legs after being in the car. The Shoalhaven River meets the sea here so you get the best of both worlds, nice river and ocean views.

Shoalhaven Heads - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is a year round destination fringed with stunning beaches, pristine national and marine park and quaint little towns with an abundance of delicious places to eat and drink. The whole area has a very chilled out vibe with lots to see and do for all ages.

  • Booderee National Park – Home to some the the areas most stunning beaches like Caves Beach and Murray’s Beach where you might run into a few of the local kangaroos who like to hang out in the car park. This National Park also has some great short walks, ruins and lovely Botanical Gardens. You could easily spend a day or more just exploring this park.

Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, Australia

  • White Sands Walk – Beginning at Greenfield Beach picnic area this walk takes you on a loop past some of the best white sand beaches on the bay including world famous Hyam’s Beach, said to have the whitest sand int he world. The whole loop takes about an hour and is relatively flat, so good for most fitness levels.

Hyams Beach in jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • See Whales and Dolphins – During whale season (roughly June to November), these majestic creatures like to make their way into the bay and sometimes put on a bit of a show. However, if you’re not in the area during whale season then you can still see the amazing dolphins that live in the bay. The best way to see these creatures is on a cruise, check out some option in the box below.

A pod of Dolphins in Jervis Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – On the northern end of Jervis Bay, this lighthouse offers spectacular views looking out over the bay and through the opening out to sea. You can even make out the white sands of the beaches that rim the bay.

Point Perpendicular Lighthouse view - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Nearby St Georges Basin – Just 10 minutes from Huskisson (the main town in Jervis Bay) is St Georges Basin, a shallow lake home to some of the regions most beautiful flora and fauna. From Erowal Bay and the few towns along the Basin you’ll be able to go fishing, see flocks of birds take off and land on the still water and watch kangaroos lazing by the shore just before sunset. Its one of the most peaceful places on earth.

St Georges Basin - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Suggested Jervis Bay Tours

2 Hour Whale Watching Cruise – scenic whale watching cruise from mid May to mid November on Jervis Bay.

1.5 Hour Dolphin Cruise – visiting Jervis Bay outside of whale season, join this spectacular dolphin cruise instead.

Where to Stay in Jervis Bay

Budget
Huskisson Holiday Cabins
Studio bungalows with kitchenette, air-con and some featuring a patio. Just a five minute walk to the beach and centre of town.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast
Just two minutes walk from the beach. Accommodation includes breakfast and access to the outdoor dining area including spa, pizza oven and BBQ.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Ceespray on Owen
Luxury B&B style accommodation surrounded by tropical gardens. Luxurious rooms with private bathrooms and access to communal kitchen, dining and outdoor spaces.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches

Day 6 to 8 – Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay

Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Heading further south in the morning from Jervis Bay, the drive to Batemans Bay is about two hours with lots of beach stops and detours along the way.

  • Lake Conjola – On the lake of the same name, this sleepy little town is a short detour from the highway and a great place to grab a coffee and stretch your legs with a walk along the lake front.
  • Milton – A little further south on the highway is the historic town of Milton which is packed with art galleries, antiques and, surprisingly for the location, fine dining restaurants. Grab a treat from the Heritage Bakery at the very least.
  • Mollymook – Popular holiday spot for families in summer, I love the beach here which is patrolled during summer and great for a swim or surf. The town also has some great beach cafes and fish and chip shops, so this could be a good place to grab a late breakfast or lunch.

Mollymook Beach - The Trusted Traveller

  • Pretty Beach in the Murramarang National Park – Taking the Bawley Point turn off from the highway, this slightly longer detour is worth it for the stunning and secluded beach you’ll find at the end, Pretty Beach. From Pretty Beach there are lots of walks you can do, keeping your eye out for kangaroos in the grass. Also a great spot for a picnic.

What to See & Do in Batemans Bay

Arriving in Batemans Bay will be the start of your adventures in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. Famous for amazing beaches and waterways perfect of outdoor activities and food, incredible local sourced food. The countryside through the whole region is rolling hills with grazing cows on the right as you head south and aqua blue ocean on the left.

  • Oysters! – The Clyde River which runs right through Batemas Bay is home to plenty of oyster leases meaning an abundance of local oysters for you to eat. My favourite spot to grab and oyster is The Oyster Shed on Wray St where you will get the freshest oysters served either on the deck over looking the river or for takeaway.

Eat oysters at The Oyster Shed - The Trusted Traveller

  • Mogo – 10 minutes south of Batemans Bay is the tiny town of Mogo. The street is lined with quaint antique and crafty stores as well as a few great places to grab a bite to eat, maybe even a locally made cake. While in Mogo, check out the zoo there which has a great reputation for the protection of endangered species, you can even feed a giraffe!

Mogo - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Hit the Beach – There are lots of beaches around Batemans Bay. My favourite would have to be McKenzies Beach in Malua Bay, just south of town on the coastal tourist drive. Its less crowded and has beautiful semi enclosed surrounding cliffs.

McKenzies Beach, Malua Bay - The Trusted Traveller

  • Mossy Point – On the coastal tourist drive south of Batemans Bay is this lovely little coastal township where the Tomago River meets the sea. Down by the river mouth you can hire a kayak and paddle up the river spotting sting rays as they glide under the kayak. It is pristine beauty.

Kayaking at Mossy Point - The Trusted Traveller

  • Durras Discovery Trail – Just north of Batemans Bay off the highway is the southern part of the Murramarang National Park where you will find this 1.5km loop walk through the rainforest. It is a great escape from the beaches in summer with temperatures generally lower in the rainforest.

Where to Stay in Batemans Bay

Budget
Shady Willows Holiday Park & Batemans Bay YHA
Accommodation ranging from dorm rooms to private cabins. Facilities within the property include a pool, BBQ area, communal kitchen and playground for the kids.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
T
Bridge Motel
Simple yet comfortable motel style accommodation featuring an onsite pool and BBQ area. Short drive into the centre of town and the beaches. Perfect for short stays.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Bay Breeze Boutique Motel
Located on the promenade just steps for the restaurants and shops. Their luxury two bedroom apartment overlooks the river and is fully fitted with everything you could need including an amazing double shower.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

The terrace - Bay Breeze Boutique Motel: Luxury on the Eurobodalla Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

Bay Breeze Boutique Motel: Luxury on the Eurobodalla Coast

Things to So in Eurobodalla on the NSW South Coast

Day 9 to 11 – Batemans Bay to Narooma

Batemans Bay to Narooma Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Around an hours drive from Batemans Bay to Narooma with more stunning countryside and coastal towns to explore along the way. You could easily have a late start today, however make sure you allow enough time to check out some of these spots along the way.

  • Moruya Heads – A sleepy coastal town with great Tuesday local farmers markets and beautiful views where the Moruya River meets the sea.

Sage Farmers Market - The Trusted Traveller

  • Coila Prawns – If you love prawns, a stop at the service station on the highway here will allow you to buy some of the freshest prawns you can get. These are not just any prawns though, they are Coila Lake prawns which are small, sweet and delicious, with the prawns completing their entire lifestyle in enclosed waters, which is rare.
  • Tuross Head – Another lovely sleepy town along the coast and probably one of my favourites. There’s a great short tourist drive you can do around Tuross Head if you don’t have much time here. It takes in all the best spots around town including some lovely lookout spots.

Tuross Beach, Tuross Head - The Trusted Traveller

  • Bodalla Dairy Shed – Cheese and dairy lovers will be in heaven in this place. Here you can taste and buy locallly made dairy products include the Bodalla Cheese Company. I especially like their saltbush cheese for something different and don’t forget to grab a deliciously fresh milkshake for the road.

Cheese Tasting in the Bodalla Dairy Shed - The Trusted Traveller

  • Dalmeny Drive Detour – Not long before arriving in Narooma, you can turn off the highway and continue the rest of the way along the coastal Dalmeny Road for beautiful beaches and coastal views. There is also a coastal walking path which you can walk part of to stretch your legs after the drive.

What to See & Do in Narooma

Narooma is gateway to some of the best beaches, snorkeling and wildlife on the NSW South Coast. Set on the Wagonga Inlet, it is a popular place for family holidays, fishing and lazy days at the beach.

  • Hit the Beach – Surf Beach right in the heart of Narooma and is the most popular beach in the area and rightly so. The water is crystal clear, the sand pristine and it is patrolled all throughout summer making it great for swimmers and surfers. It is also home to the Glasshouse Rock formations, great for exploring at low tide.

Surf Beach at Narooma - The Trusted Traveller

  • Montague Island – Located just 9 km off the coast of Narooma is this nature lover’s paradise. It is home to a famous lighthouse as well as many animal species such as the little penguins, seals and sea birds. You can visit the island on a guided tour at various times throughout the year. 

Swimming with Seals on Montague Island - The Trusted Traveller

  • Mill Bay Boardwalk – A short 350m boardwalk around Mill Bay is the perfect way to start the day off when visiting Narooma. Locals and visitors a like take this walk to see stingrays feeding and take in the beautiful surrounds.
  • Mystery Bay to 1080 Beach Walk – This moderate 5 km return walk through the bush also has the option of a beach walk return when tides are right. The walk is located just a 10 minute drive south of Narooma.
  • Gulaga Walk, Mt Dromadery – A little further south of Narooma, this walk is a lot tougher than those mentioned above and is good for those who have good physical fitness and are looking for a challenge. It is 14km return taking around five hours to complete with the majority of the walk heading straight up to the top of this extinct volcano.

Where to Stay in Narooma

Budget
Coastal Comfort Motel
Basic yet clean and comfortable motel just a 10 minute walk to the beach. Motel features a shared balcony with ocean views and a BBQ area for all guests to enjoy.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Mid-Range
Narooma Palms Holiday Apartments
Full fitted apartments just 500m from the town centre. Great pool and BBQ facilities onsite with lots of room for outdoor dining in the summer time.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.
Luxury
Top of the Town Motor Inn
Just a five minutes walk to the main surf beach and inlet. This motor inn includes pool and onsite restaurant plus spacious and comfortable rooms with plush furnishings.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel.

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodation

7 Eurobodalla Culinary Delights That Should Not Be Missed

Day 12 to 14 – Narooma to Merimbula

Narooma to Merimbula Map - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

The final leg of the trip takes you further south to the town of Merimbula and part of the spectacular Sapphire Coast. There are two routes you can take, the first is just to head straight down the highway in about an hour and a quarter through the countryside or you can take the more scenic coastal route in just under two hours stopping at scenic coastal towns along the way.

  • Tilba Tilba – Similar to Mogo, this historic little town is home to some quaint little galleries and antique shops as well as cafes selling local produce.

Tilba - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Camel Rock – One of the oldest rocks known in NSW. Access the beach of the same name via the car park and take a walk along the beach to see the rock which is, as the name says, shaped like a camel.

Camel Rock - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Bermagui Pacific Drive – A short drive around this coastal town where you can visit Dickinson Point for spectacular ocean views or take a dip in the Blue Pool, a natural rock pool that shines sapphire colour on a sunny day.

Bermagui - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

  • Tathra – Head into this sleepy fishing town to walk out on the famous pier and grab some fish and chips while enjoying the peace and lovely views.

Tathra - NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

What to See & Do in Merimbula

The heart of the Sapphire Coast, Merimbula is lively coastal village surrounded by pristine marine and national parks. There is an abundance of things to see and do for those who love being outdoors and lots to keep the foodies happy too.

  • Ben Boyd National Park – Named after entrepreneur, Ben Boyd, the park was first established in 1973 and encompasses an area of over 10,000 hectares. It’s the perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers to explore with plenty of excellent walking tracks, interesting geological features and structures, beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot wildlife. You could easily spend a day or more exploring the park.

The Pinnacles - The Trusted Traveller

  • Enjoy the Beaches – Right in the heart of town you will find great beaches to relax and enjoy some water sports. For something a bit quieter, head further south to Pambula or Eden. 

Haycock Point Beach- The Trusted Traveller

  • More Oysters! – If you haven’t had your fill of this delicious morsels yet then you are in the right place. Pambula oysters are among some of the best in Australia. While you can buy them all over the region fresh, it doesn’t come fresher than joining Sponge on his Magical Oyster Tour around his Pambula River oyster leases. He will even pull an oyster fresh from the water for you to try. Read more about my tour experience with Sponge here.

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - The Trusted Traveller

  • Whale Watching – From September to November each year humpback whales can be seen off the Sapphire Coast making their way south to Antarctica for the summer. There are of course lots of places where you can spot them from the shore but the best way to get up close to these incredible creatures is on cruise.
  • Take a Walk – There a many great walks around the Sapphire Coast for all fitness levels:
    • Merimbula Boardwalk that starts from right in the heart of Merimbula and follows the water’s edge for 3.4 km to Lakeview Drive;
    • Eden Boardwalk takes you around Curalo Lake and along Aslings Beach for about 6km; and
    • Mt Imlay is a challenging half day walk to the summit is 6 km of steep track that requires a bit of rock climbing and scrambling. Your efforts are rewarded at the top with nice views of the surrounding area.

Eden Boardwalk - The Trusted Traveller

Where to Stay in Merimbula

Budget

wandarrahWandarrah Lodge
Located just a 2-minute walk from the beach, Wandarrah Lodge offers a games room, free WiFi, communal TV lounge, kitchen and a terrace with a BBQ area. All rooms include access to shared bathroom facilities and private rooms are available. Book Now

Mid Range

seashellsSeashells Apartments
Just 4-minutes walk from the beach, Seashells offers self-contained apartments with free WiFi and a private patio or balcony. On-site, guests enjoy a solar-heated pool and BBQ. Apartments are air-conditioned with a laundry, fully equipped kitchen and spacious living area with a flat-screen TV. Book Now

Luxury

albacoreAlbacore Apartments
Located 10-minutes walk from the beach, all apartments are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen cable TV and fully equipped kitchen. Most have a private balcony with views across Merimbula Lake. Guests can enjoy the on-site BBQ and outdoor heated pool. Book Now

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.

Read More

How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

Getting Back to Sydney

You have a few options to get back to Sydney once your time on the NSW South Coast is over.

The quickest way is the inland route via the Snowy Mountains, Canberra and the Southern Highlands. If you have a few more days to spare on your holiday, you can make a few stops along the way in these three regions. Driving straight without stops, this route will take about five to six hours.

Alternatively, you can just head straight back up the Pacific Highway the way you came. This route will take you a little over six hours.

Read More

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Continuing to Melbourne

Another option if you have a lot of extra time is to continue along the coast into Victoria and onto Melbourne. 

There are lots of places to explore on this route and you could easily spend another week or two on your road trip.

Visit sleepy Mallacoota, explore the Gippsland Lakes and take in some of the most untouched national parks in the region.

Check out this Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route).


PIN THIS FOR LATER!

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller
Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary - The Trusted Traveller

Over to you!

Which part of this NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary are you most looking forward to exploring?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Filed Under: Suggested Itineraries Tagged With: Australia, Eurobodalla, NSW, NSW South Coast, Oceania, Sapphire Coast

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

September 19, 2016 by Jen Lyons Leave a Comment

The Sapphire Coast stretches from Bermagui in the north to the Victorian border south of Eden, and is a New South Wales hidden gem. It is home to lots of white sandy beaches, national parks and wildlife, food and wine and art and culture. It is a destination that has something for everyone.

Just over five hours drive from Sydney, three hours from Canberra and six hours from Melbourne, the Sapphire Coast is an easy long weekend destination, or you can do what we did and spend a whole week discovering everything it has to offer.

We hope these things to do on the NSW Sapphire Coast help you put together a vacation to this truly beautiful part of Australia’s NSW South Coast.

Take a Magical Oyster Tour

Oyster Leases on the Pambula Broadwater - Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

 

Learn more about oysters, the business of farming and the producers themselves on this excellent tour. Brett, or Sponge as he likes to be called, runs regular tours of the Pambula Broadwater on his oversized, kited out, oyster punt and is one of the few people to run an oyster tour on the NSW South Coast. You can read more about our experience on this tour here.

Address: Tours depart from the Pambula Lake Jetty at “Broadwater” just off the Princes Hwy.

Cost: Adult $50.00 | Child 5 – 16 $30.00| Concession $40.00 | Family $ 140.00 | Under 5’s free

Hours: Tours last for about 1.5 hours and run dependent on numbers. Bookings essential.

More Information: http://www.magicaloystertours.com.au/


Explore Ben Boyd National Park

Ben Boyd National Park - Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Named after entrepreneur, Ben Boyd, the park was first established in 1973 and encompasses an area of over 10,000 hectares. It’s the perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers to explore with plenty of excellent walking tracks, interesting geological features and structures, beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot wildlife. You can read more about all the things to see and do in the park here.

Address: Access is both north and south of Eden on the Princes Highway with two main park entry points, Haycock Road for the northern section and Edrom Road for the southern.

Cost: $8.00 per vehicle per day payable using the self-registration service in car parks throughout the park.

Hours: The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Parts of the park can close due to poor weather or fire danger.

More Information: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/


Spend a Day at the Beach

Pambula Beach - Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

The Sapphire Coast is littered with stunning beaches that can be enjoyed all year round. In summer, spending a day at the beach is a must. Just make sure you swim between he flags and apply sunscreen to protect you from the hot Aussie sun. And when the weather is a little cooler, but the sun shining, the beach is a great place for a stroll and you’ll usually find them deserted.


Be Inspired: The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches


Go Whale Watching

Humpback Whale- Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

From September to November each year humpback whales can be seen off the Sapphire Coast making their way south to Antarctica for the summer. There are of course lots of places where you can spot them from the shore but the best way to get up close to these incredible creatures is on cruise.

There are a few tours that run in the area so check in with the local visitors centre when you arrive on the coast to find out which tours are operating during your stay. They will be able to help you with more information and even book you in.

More Information: Find a visitors centre here.


Visit the Home of Dairy in NSW

Bega Cheese Heritage Centre - Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Like us, most Aussies grew up eating Bega Cheese, so it was a given that we should visit the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre while on the Sapphire Coast. It’s a great place to visit and try the full range of Bega cheeses including ones that are made for export overseas only. They also have other dairy products for you to try and buy as well as a café where you can buy meals made from their dairy, like delicious milkshakes!

Address: 11-13 Lagoon St, Bega

Cost: Entry and tasting is free

Hours: 09:00 – 17:00 daily

More Information: http://www.begacheese.com.au/heritage-centre/


Read More: The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodation


Take a Walk

Eden Boardwalk - Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

The Sapphire Coast is a nature lovers paradise so getting out and exploring it on foot is an excellent idea. There are lots of walks in the region but here are just a few we think you should know about.

  • Merimbula Boardwalk – This walk leaves from right in the heart of Merimbula and follows the water’s edge for 3.4 km to Lakeview Drive. It is flat all the way and easy for all fitness levels.
  • Eden Boardwalk – This walk takes you around Curalo Lake and along Aslings Beach. The lake part of the walk is 6 km and it is flat making it easy for all fitness levels.
  • Mt Imlay – This challenging half day walk to the summit is 6 km of steep track that requires a bit of rock climbing and scrambling. Your efforts are rewarded at the top with nice views of the surrounding area.
  • Ben Boyd National Park – There are lots of great walks in Ben Boyd National Park including the multi-day 30 km light to light walk plus lots of short walks with something for everyone. See the section above on the park for more info.
Read More

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)


Where to Stay on the NSW Sapphire Coast

Here are our top picks for accommodation in Merimbula which is a central place to base yourself for exploring the region.

Budget

wandarrahWandarrah Lodge
Located just a 2-minute walk from the beach, Wandarrah Lodge offers a games room, free WiFi, communal TV lounge, kitchen and a terrace with a BBQ area. All rooms include access to shared bathroom facilities and private rooms are available. Book Now

Mid Range

seashellsSeashells Apartments
Just 4-minutes walk from the beach, Seashells offers self-contained apartments with free WiFi and a private patio or balcony. On-site, guests enjoy a solar-heated pool and BBQ. Apartments are air-conditioned with a laundry, fully equipped kitchen and spacious living area with a flat-screen TV. Book Now

Luxury

albacoreAlbacore Apartments
Located 10-minutes walk from the beach, all apartments are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen cable TV and fully equipped kitchen. Most have a private balcony with views across Merimbula Lake. Guests can enjoy the on-site BBQ and outdoor heated pool. Book Now


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A visit to Ben Boyd National Park is an absolute must when exploring the Sapphire Coast. Click through to read about some of the other things to do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Don't miss the chance to see humpback whales in the wild when visiting the Sapphire Coast from September to November each year. Click through to read about some of the other things to do on the NSW Sapphire Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Over to you!

Of all the things to do on the NSW Sapphire Coast, what are you most keen to see and do?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Filed Under: Things to do in... Tagged With: Australia, NSW, Oceania, Sapphire Coast

How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park

June 13, 2016 by Jen Lyons 2 Comments

Ben Boyd National Park is situated on the New South Wales South Coast near the town of Eden. Named after entrepreneur, Ben Boyd, the park was first established in 1973 and encompasses an area of over 10,000 hectares.

It’s the perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers to explore with plenty of excellent walking tracks, interesting geological features and structures, beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot wildlife.

We recently spent a day exploring the park, taking walks, seeing the sights and just generally enjoying the chance to be outside in nature. We found that there is a lot to see, so being organised and realistic about what you can and can’t fit into a day is important.

To help you maximise your time and have an enjoyable day out in Ben Boyd National Park just like we did, we’ve put together this how to itinerary. It is full of all the things we did and saw during our day in the park plus we’ve added a few extra tips too.

Getting to Ben Boyd National Park

Ben Boyd National Park is located 550 km’s east of Melbourne, 500 km’s south of Sydney and 250 km’s south east of Canberra. It’s right never the New South Wales / Victoria border with the town of Eden in the middle of the park and Merimbula just 15 km’s to its north.

The park is separated into two parts, split by Two Folds Bay, with a small section of the park to the north of Eden and a larger section to the south. The Princes Highway runs the length of the park with two main park entry points, Haycock Road for the northern section and Edrom Road for the southern.

Getting to and around the park is easiest with your own vehicle as there are very limited public transport options. The main road through the park is sealed, however other roads are not, but most are still suitable to any type of car. If you are hiring a vehicle for your trip, we recommend something larger, like a 4WD or SUV style which will handle the unsealed roads better and be more comfortable for you.

What to See in Ben Boyd National Park

A map of what to see in Ben Boyd National Park - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller

These stops are in the order in which they should be visited based on you travelling from north to south. If you are coming from the south, you could of course follow this itinerary in reverse.

Haycock Point

Haycock Point Beach - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Haycock Point Beach

At the northern tip of the park, Haycock Point is the starting point for the walk to Barmouth Beach with views of the coast and Pambula river mouth. The walk is graded moderate with a few steps and gentle hills and is 3 km one-way.

Pinnacles

The Pinnacles - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
The Pinnacles

The 65 million year old Pinnacles is one of the highlights in the park. These white soft sand cliffs are capped with a red gravel clay which has eroded over the years. The walk from the carpark is on a loop track and takes about 30 minutes to complete. It’s a simple walk and there are two lookout points along the track to view the Pinnacles, the beach and looking back to Haycock Point.

Boyds Tower

Boyds Tower - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Boyds Tower

Built in 1847 and commissioned by Ben Boyd to become a lighthouse, the eccentric entrepreneur never got to see his vision completed before his death. The walk to the remains of the tower is on a flat path and takes about 15 minutes return.

Naval Wharf

Aqua water off the Naval Wharf - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Aqua water off the Naval Wharf

This 200 metre long wharf that extends out into Two Folds Bay has many uses such as a place for visiting cruise ships to dock and for receiving softwood exports for the nearby mill. When there is nothing docked, it is open to the public to walk out on. The water around the wharf is some of the clearest we’ve seen and the walk offers lovely bay views as well as a glimpse at the historic Edrom Lodge.

Disaster Bay Lookout

Disaster Bay Lookout - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Disaster Bay Lookout

On the bumpy unsealed road out to the Green Cape is the most spectactular lookout in the park, Disaster Bay Lookout. The lookout looks south across Disaster Bay and the Nadgee-Howe Wilderness Area which extends to the Victorian border. It’s a peaceful spot that is excellent for whale watching from May to November or bird spotting all year round.

Green Cape Lighthouse

Green Cape Lighthouse - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Green Cape Lighthouse

At the most southern tip of the park is the impressive Green Cape Lighthouse. Built in 1883, the lighthouse is the tallest and most southerly in New South Wales. The grounds are open to the public to explore at their own pace or you can join a tour to learn more about the lighthouse and the shipwrecks that have occurred here. The drive out of the forest onto the cape through low scrub with glimpses of the lighthouse is pretty impressive in itself.


Read More: Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast


Got More Time?

Extend your time in the park and take on the Light to Light Walk. This 31 km walk takes you along the stunning coastline of the southern section of the park from Boyds Tower to Green Cape. The walk is split into three sections with ample camping facilities along the route and a car shuttle to get you back to you vehicle at the end of the walk.

Where to Stay Near Ben Boyd National Park

Basing yourself in either Eden or Merimbula will not only give you ease of access to the park but also expose you to lots of other interesting things to see and do in the area. Both towns have all the amenities you’ll need including places to eat, supermarkets and fuel. Here are a few accommodation suggestions you might like to explore”

Eden – Budget: Eden Motel | Mid: Twofold Bay Motor Inn | Lux: Eden Seascape

Merimbula – Budget: Sapphire Valley Caravan Park | Mid: Seashells Apartments Merimbula | Lux: Coast Resort Merimbula

More Details

Ben Boyd National Park is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week however the part of the park may be closed due to poor weather conditions or fire danger.

A small park entry fee of $8.00 per vehicle is required for a days use of the park. This can be paid using their self-registration service which you’ll find throughout the park, mostly in carpark’s and at the start of walking tracks. Ensure you bring the correct change as there are no facilities available to give change.

There are no facilities to buy food or drink in park so it is best to bring everything you will need for the day. Supermarkets can be found in nearby Eden and Merimbula to help you stock up on supplies. Ensure you bring enough water for a full day.

For more information about the park in including brochures and maps, visit the Visitor Information Centres at either Merimbula (2 Beach Street) or Eden (Cnr Imlay & Mitchell Streets).

Read More

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)


Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you found this article helpful, please consider using them to book your trip. It costs you no extra and helps to keep The Trusted Traveller running.


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Green Cape Lighthouse - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller
Green Cape Lighthouse - How to Spend a Day in Ben Boyd National Park - The Trusted Traveller

Over to you!

We’d love to hear about some national parks that you’ve enjoyed visiting!

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Filed Under: Suggested Itineraries Tagged With: Australia, NSW, NSW South Coast, Oceania, Sapphire Coast

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

April 25, 2016 by Jen Lyons Leave a Comment

When doing our research for things to see and do along the NSW South Coast, the one thing that we noticed kept popping up was that we had to try some oysters. We’ve visited parts of the region many times before but never had we thought to eat oysters.

So our mission during our two weeks, to eat as many oysters as possible.

[easy-tweet tweet=”Our mission during our two weeks, to eat as many oysters as possible.” user=”TrustTraveller” hashtags=”SouthCoastNSW, Australia” url=”http://wp.me/p4m9oE-2n8″ template=”light”]

Of course we ate and enjoyed plenty of oysters during the two weeks at places like The Oysters Shed on Wray Street in Batemans Bay and The Whale Restaurant in Narooma, both of which are included in our top Eurobodalla culinary experiences.

But what we really wanted to do was learn more about the oysters, the business of farming and the producers themselves. And we got that chance thanks to Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tours in Pambula on the Sapphire Coast.

Sponge's oyster punt - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Sponge’s oyster punt

Brett, or Sponge as he likes to be called, runs regular tours of the Pambula Broadwater on his oversized, kitted out, oyster punt and is one of the only people to run an oyster tour on the NSW South Coast.

About the Captain

Sponge is a through and through Aussie hard worker with a witty character and a serious passion for nature and what he does, which really comes through on his tours.

Meet Captain Sponge - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Meet Captain Sponge

He hasn’t always been an oyster farmer, having grown up on a farm running cattle, sheep, wheat and canola in Cowra in central west NSW. 10 years ago, in the depths of the worst drought in 100 years, he and his family made the change to oyster farming on the Sapphire Coast.

As well as running tours, Sponge is a busy man. He has oyster leases in both Merimbula and Pambula Lakes and a few down the Pambula River too. He’s also a very active member of the community, getting involved in many local events and as a committee member for Australia’s Oyster Coast, an organisation set up to promote and support the oyster growing community on the NSW South Coast.

What to Expect on the Tour

During the tour Sponge takes you to many different parts of Pambula Lake and River to learn more about the area and its heritage; his oyster leases and business; and you might even get to spot some of the local wildlife.

Cruising the Pambula River - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Cruising the Pambula River

Just up river from the jetty where you board the punt is Sponge’s rustic oyster hut where he runs his business from. Here he tells us about what goes on inside the hut, things like sorting and grading the oysters. Already, this early in the tour, we got the sense that Sponge is one hard working man with a lot of manual labour involved in his work.

Sponge's oyster hut on the Pambula Broadwater - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Sponge’s oyster hut on the Pambula Broadwater

Next stop is at the junction between the Pambula and Yowaka Rivers where Sponge tells us all about the history of the region and its traditional indigenous landowners, the Thaua people. It’s here that his passion for this beautiful part of the world starts to shine through.

Beautiful Pambula River - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Beautiful Pambula River

Making our way out onto the lake, the conversation turns from history to the process of oyster farming as we start to get a closer look at oyster leases. Sponge tells us all about the different oyster farming methods and how oyster farming is evolving, with new methods of farming and equipment being used.

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake

He talks about the long process the oysters go through before they make it to your plate in a restaurant. Everything from the catching of oysters to the care taken to ensure the harvest is as good as can be and to the critical problems that an oyster farm can face.

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake

We learn about the different types of oysters grown in the area, Sydney Rock which are smaller sweet tasting; Pacific, large oysters popular for export to Asia; and the Angasi oyster which is the only type of oyster native to the area.

Angasi oysters - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Angasi oysters

Sponge then ties the boat up to one of his leases in the middle of the lake so we can peer over the sides to get a good look. At this point he even pulls an oyster bag out of the water, harvesting a few oysters for his shucking demonstration later on, one of which I am lucky enough to try.

Sponge pulling an oyster bag from the water - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Sponge pulling an oyster bag from the water
An oyster bag full of oysters - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
An oyster bag full of oysters
Sponge demonstrating how to shuck an oyster - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Sponge demonstrating how to shuck an oyster

The tour continues back to the river where Sponge talks a bit more about the indigenous people and how oysters were one of their main food sources. He points out ancient midden sites along the banks as well as a few eagles nests up in the trees. We even get a rare few moments watching a sea eagle watching us up in the trees.

Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake

It’s at this point that we get to try an oyster or two for ourselves as Sponge produces a plate of the fresh oysters harvested just the afternoon before for our tasting pleasure. We eat our oysters, the freshest we’ve tasted, while cruising along the river taking in the calm water and bushy surrounds.

A delicious plate of Sydney Rock Oysters - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
A delicious plate of Sydney Rock Oysters
A sweet and fresh Sydney Rock Oyster - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
A sweet and fresh Sydney Rock Oyster

It’s the perfect end to a highly enjoyable and informative cruise. Sponge is most definitely someone you have to meet when visiting the region because of his absolute passion for oyster farming and his own backyard.


Read More: The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodation | Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast


More Details

You can learn more about Sponge and Australia’s Oyster Coast by taking one of his Magical Oyster Tours which leave from the Landing Road wharf, about 4 km south of Pambula.

Tours are run dependent on numbers so bookings in advance are essential. More information on prices, times and bookings can be found on his website.

We would like to thank Sponge for hosting us on his tour. As always, all opinions expressed in this review are our own and were not influenced in any way by receiving a complimentary tour.

Read More

Two Week NSW South Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary (The Coastal Route)


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Sponge pulling an oyster bag from the water - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller
Oyster leases in the Pambula Lake - A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast - The Trusted Traveller

Over to you!

Would you like to take an oyster tour on the NSW South Coast? Do you like to eat oysters?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Filed Under: Reviews Tagged With: Australia, NSW South Coast, Oceania, Pambula, Sapphire Coast

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