Discover the Grand Pacific Drive | Top Stops & Scenic Highlights
The Grand Pacific Drive is a breathtaking 140-kilometre journey along the coast, starting in the Royal National Park and winding its way through charming coastal towns such as Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and the stunning Shoalhaven region, all part of New South Wales’ stunning South Coast.
As you travel, you'll discover lots of activities to suit everyone—whether you're looking for thrilling adventures, exquisite dining experiences, family-friendly attractions, or breathtaking natural attractions. Plus, you have post-GPD options, whether you're returning to Sydney via the picturesque Southern Highlands or continuing your journey southward towards Victoria via the Sapphire Coast.
The Grand Pacific Drive features two main options—the Official Route, which starts in Royal National Park, and the Beyond Route, which extends from Shoalhaven and the Sapphire Coast towards Melbourne. With manageable distances and plenty of worthwhile Grand Pacific drive stops, it's ideal for all road trip lovers, from solos and permanent ‘vanners to couples and those travelling with kids.
Source: https://www.grandpacificdrive.com.au/
Sydney to Royal National Park (35km)
This is a fantastic road trip build-up before the Grand Pacific Drive officially begins. But it's in no way missable, as the Royal National Park is one of the greatest outdoor playgrounds in NSW (and the second oldest national park in the world). Cycling and walking trails wind throughout bush bliss, plus there is spectacular coastal scenery and beaches to frolic on at your leisure. Explore idyllic seaside villages, do some whale spotting from May to November, and don't miss the Bald Hill Lookout for jaw-dropping views.
Grand Pacific Drive Australia - Official Route
Royal National Park to Wollongong (40km)
The Sea Cliff Bridge is a great leg-stretching stop-off with towering cliffs and rocky coastline views. Enjoy a leisurely pub lunch, then continue the drive to Wollongong. Here, you can meander along the Wollongong Coastal Walk, splash at one of the area's 17 beautiful beaches, or visit Nan Tien, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.
Don't miss: The Wattamolla to Eagle Rock Trail is moderately challenging and takes around three hours to complete. Along the way, experience stunning views of the ocean and dramatic coastal scenery.
Wollongong to Shellharbour (20km)
The drive to Shellharbour takes less than half an hour, and this lovely spot sits in the middle of two beaches—the Shellharbour North and Shellharbour South beaches. Both are in-the-know surfing spots, while Mystics (at Minnamurra Beach) and The Farm (at Killalea Beach) attract surfers from near and far.
These two breaks are in the Killalea Reserve, which is a designated National Surfing Reserve, so they offer impressive waves. If you've packed your snorkel and flippers, check out Bushranger's Bay, a protected Aquatic Reserve.
Just south of Shellharbour Village is the 72-hectare Bass Point Reserve. It is home to one of the most important Aboriginal archaeological sites on the NSW coast, which you can discover with a self-guided cultural walk.
Shellharbour is overlooked by the iconic Ocean Beach Hotel, established in 1929. It offers excellent food, a great view, and great entertainment. It also has a smattering of restaurants and cafes with a serene waterside vibe. Try kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding or take your bike or hire one, and cycle along the spectacular Shellharbour coastline or around Lake Illawarra'sIllawarra's foreshore.
Don't miss: Book a cruise from May to November to view the majestic beauty of the migrating humpback whales. Unforgettable!
Shellharbour to Kiama (15km)
The cosmopolitan seaside hamlet of Kiama is a mecca for visitors looking for a beach break away from the city. Many people go directly to the well-known blowhole, which is a 2.5-metre opening in the rocky surface. When the tides come from the southeast, it can spray water as high as 30 metres into the air.
The blowhole is an integral part of the 20-kilometre Kiama Coast Walk. This scenic route starts at the Minnamurra River, travels through Kiama, and extends southward to Werri Beach in Gerringong. The pristine beaches and coastal scenery are ideal for memory-making snaps.
Take some time to visit the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, where you can view fascinating Aboriginal artefacts that tell the story of a long-gone era. Afterwards, embark on an adventure through the lush Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park. You'll stroll along elevated walkways that weave through the remnants of the rainforest that once covered the Illawarra region.
For a unique vantage point, head to Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures where you can enjoy awesome views from the Treetop Walk, a steel pathway around 20 to 30 metres above the ground.
Don't miss: If you love adrenalin enhancement, the Illawarra Fly Zipline Tour is one of the highest zipline experiences in Australia. It offers a one-of-a-kind eco-adventure in the stunning Illawarra Rainforest.
Kiama to Shoalhaven Heads (74km)
Shoalhaven Heads, tucked between Mount Coolangatta and Seven Mile Beach and close to the Shoalhaven River, is a serene coastal village perfect for a peaceful getaway. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers lots of outdoor activities to keep visitors entertained, with nearby historic wineries just a short drive away.
It provides direct access to the stunning sands of Seven Mile Beach, which extends 12 kilometres from the river's mouth to the Seven Mile Beach National Park. This expansive beach is ideal for surfing, kite-surfing, horse riding, and fishing. With off-leash zones available 24/7, your fur baby can also join in the fun.
The Shoalhaven River, which spans over 300 kilometres, also flows into the sea at Shoalhaven Heads. Rent a boat to catch species like bream, whiting, mullet and Australian salmon, or head to nearby Greenwell Point for a more leisurely estuary fishing experience along the Crookhaven River.
At the southern tip of the beach, Comerong Island is a protected nature reserve famous for its diverse shorebird population. Take a car ferry across Berry's Canal, wander through the lush reserve, and enjoy a picnic on a quiet beach nestled in this tranquil setting. For families seeking adventure, the Sand Tracks offer friendly bush walks where you can experience the thriving coastal dunes, have a midday picnic, and then relish a refreshing swim in the afternoon.
Don't miss: The Shoalhaven River estuary is part of Australia's renowned Oyster Coast. The region offers everything from kayaking tours and lakeside oyster shacks to oyster cruises and oyster bars.
Grand Pacific Drive NSW - Beyond Route
The second leg of the Grand Pacific Drive, the Beyond Route, begins at Shoalhaven and heads further south towards the start of the magical Sapphire Coast and further south to Melbourne.
Shoalhaven to Eurobodalla (132km)
Nowra is your first must-do stop. Its stunning river landscape and serene bushland make this vibrant regional town along the Shoalhaven River a wonderful spot to explore. You can enjoy leisurely visits to cellar doors, museums, and galleries or embrace a variety of outdoor activities—from hiking in nearby national parks to unwinding on a beautiful sandy shore.
Jervis Bay boasts diverse wildlife, striking aquamarine waters, and snow-white sand. Here, you can partake in various water sports, go on dolphin-watching cruises, discover national parks, and snorkel among marine creatures. (Check out our guide to Jervis Bay caravan parks).
Batemans Bay offers an array of attractions and is an excellent base for exploring this area's natural beauty and wonders. The region features stunning beaches, delicious fresh seafood, and numerous water activities in the ocean and the sparkling Clyde River. (Check out our guide to Batemans Bay caravan parks).
Don't miss: If you love fishing, up the ante and book a reef fishing trip. Departing as the sun rises, you can enjoy a full day of wetting a line and return home to enjoy some fishy feasting.
Eurobodalla to the start of Sapphire Coast (133km)
Nestled between the vast ocean and serene lakes, Narooma is ideal for kayaking on calm waters or gathering fresh oysters from the shoreline. It's also quickly gaining recognition as one of the most trendy culinary hotspots along the South Coast.
Perched alongside its picturesque harbour and beneath the towering Mt Dromedar, Bermagui is a vibrant seaside destination celebrated for its awe-inspiring landscapes, lots of attractions, and a lively blend of events, arts, and music. It's also renowned for its deep-sea and game fishing opportunities, including offering species like marlin and yellowfin tuna.
Water activities abound, including swimming, surfing, sailing, water skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, diving, and snorkelling at pristine beaches and tranquil rivers. Explore stunning natural scenery through coastal walking trails, discover secluded lakes, and venture into nearby national parks and state forests. Be sure to visit the award-winning Blue Pool, Horse Head Rock, and Camel Rock.
Don't miss: Join a guided tour of the historic Montreal Goldfield, the only seaside goldfield in Australia. Follow boardwalks through the beautiful native forest of tree ferns, eucalypts, and orchids, visit the Heritage Centre, and peer (safely) down old mine shafts.
References:
● Grand Pacific Drive (2025), Welcome to the Grand Pacific Drive. One drive. One Ocean. Endless Experiences, Grand Pacific Drive article, accessed 24 January 2025.
● Leigh Ann Pow (November 2024), The great road trips of NSW: Grand Pacific Drive itinerary, Australian Traveller article, accessed 24 January 2025.
● Petrina Darrah (2025), Grand Pacific drive road trip itinerary, Jucy article, accessed 24 January 2025.
Image Source: Grand pacific drive sea cliff bridge Australia by alex cheong from Getty Images via Canva Pro