The Grand Pacific Drive
One of Australia's spectacular driving routes. Highlights include Stanwell Tops, Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong and Kiama, a string of quiet golden beaches and stunning rainforests.
This southerly route from Sydney starts in the Royal National Park before heading south along the coast to Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. Pass through rainforests, seaside villages and along a sensational strip of coastline.
At a Glance:
- Sydney to Royal National Park (37 km)
- Royal National Park to Stanwell Park (31 km)
- Stanwell Park to Austinmer (12 km)
- Austinmer to Wollongong (16 km)
- Wollongong to Jamberoo (33 km)
- Jamberoo to Kiama (10 km)
The Journey:
- Nearest Major Cities: Sydney, Woollongong
- Duration / Distance: 2 days (approx. 140km / 88 miles)
- Mode of Transport: Car
Day One
Stanwell Tops Lookout, Royal National Park, New South Wales
Day 1 – Sydney to Wollongong
Start by exploring the Royal National Park, the second oldest National Park in the world. Discover rainforests, creeks, secluded beaches and dramatic sandstone headlands. Head on to Symbio Wildlife Park, to pat, cuddle or feed a host of furry, finned and feathered friends.
Stop at Bald Hill Lookout for an awe-inspiring panorama from Stanwell Tops down the spectacular coastline then continue south and drive the majestic Sea Cliff Bridge, an engineering marvel that swerves out from the cliffs over the ocean.
Visit the popular Austinmer Beach and the historic ocean baths, and sample some local gelato. Overnight in Wollongong, a laidback university town that has plenty of pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes to choose from – all enhanced by fresh sea air.
Highlights
- Walk the length of the Sea Cliff Bridge. Parking is available on the southern side of the Bridge.
- Enjoy the views from Stanwell Tops with a tandem hang-glide adventure.
- Swim in the ocean pool at Austinmer Beach.
- Feel the exhilaration of skydiving over the beach near Wollongong with Skydive Sydney.
Day Two
Minnamurra Rainforest, Kiama, New South Wales
Day 2 – Wollongong to Kiama
Begin the day with a swim at one of Wollongong's great beaches or take a stroll around Wollongong Harbour and Flagstaff Hill, with its array of fishing boats and lighthouses. Drive south to beautiful Jamberoo, stopping first at historic Shellharbour for a coffee. Drive on to Minnamurra Rainforest and take a hike along the boardwalk and see abundant native birdlife and stunning scenery.
Continue on to the Kiama town centre for afternoon tea. Pay a visit to the local lighthouse and, of course, the Kiama Blowhole. The drive ends just north of Nowra, at Bomaderry, from where visitors can turn inland to the Southern Highlands or head further south along the Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Drive.
Highlights
- Admire the sublime view from 468 metres high at Mt Keira Lookout or follow a scenic bushwalking trail.
- Spot a majestic lyrebird in the Minnamurra Rainforest.
- Enjoy amazing views from the Illawarra Fly treetop walk.
- Watch the Kiama blowhole in action as waves surge into an underground cave before exploding high into the air.
