2 day road trip melbourne to sydney

Melbourne to Sydney drive itinerary

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

Written by Michael Turtle

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

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

Last updated: November 22, 2023

Each day of the Melbourne to Sydney road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where should I stop between Melbourne and Sydney?

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

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

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

Is it worth driving from Melbourne to Sydney?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is there a train from Melbourne to Sydney?

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

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

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

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

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

Melbourne – Walhalla

2h 30m of driving (180 km)

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

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

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

On today’s drive…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN WALHALLA

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

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

SELF-CONTAINED

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

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

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

Melbourne – Wilsons Promontory

3 h 10m of driving (220 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION AROUND WILSONS PROM

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

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

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

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

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

Walhalla – Metung

2h 30m of driving (190 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN METUNG

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

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

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

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

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

Metung – Mallacoota

2h 30m of driving (210 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN CROAJINGALONG

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

HOLIDAY PARK

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

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

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

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

Mallacoota – Narooma

2h 20m of driving (200 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN NAROOMA

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

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

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

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

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

Narooma – Jervis Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN JERVIS BAY

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

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

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

BUSH COTTAGES

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

BEACH COTTAGES

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

Jervis Bay – Sydney

3 hours of driving (200 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Victoria stories

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

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Melbourne To Sydney Road Trip: 2 Epic Scenic Driving Routes

Melbourne and Sydney are Australia’s two biggest cities. So, if you are planning a trip Down Under, it makes sense to try and visit them both.

While a 90-minute flight is the quickest way to get between the two destinations, the more scenic option – if time permits – is to hire a car and drive to Sydney from Melbourne.

One of Australia’s classic road trips, the two world-class cities are separated by incredible sights and attractions. Depending on which way you go, you can enjoy scenic drives that present amazing beaches and coastal landscapes or charming towns and picturesque countryside that reside inland.

Sound exciting? Then keep reading as we showcase all the main highlights you’ll see on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

What Is The Distance Between Melbourne And Sydney?

How long is the drive from melbourne to sydney, best time of year to drive from melbourne to sydney, m31 route melbourne to sydney – inland on the hume highway, m1/a1 route – coastal drive from melbourne to sydney, more tips for road tripping melbourne to sydney, where to next more classic aussie road tips.

If you embark on a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney, the most direct driving route is the M31 (aka Hume Highway). The distance from the CBD in both cities is about 875 km (544 miles) and should take about 9.5 hours to complete if you drive non-stop – highly city traffic dependent!

Going this way will take you inland, through the beating heart of rural Victoria and New South Wales, enabling you to gain an excellent insight into what life is like in the countryside, away from the major cities.

For those who prefer to go from Melbourne to Sydney driving along the coastline, the M1/A1 route covers a distance of around 1000 km (621 miles). It may take a little longer depending on how many detours you take, but will give you plenty of chances to hit the beach to top up your suntan and take in the wonder of the coastal scenery. 

If you were to drive from Melbourne to Sydney via the M31, you could set off after breakfast at Federation Square and easily arrive in time for a sunset dinner by the Sydney Opera House – if you didn’t stop. But where would the fun be in that?

With so much to see and do along the way, it would be a missed opportunity if you didn’t take the time to visit some of the more notable destinations on the M31 or M1/A1 route.

Therefore, we recommend taking 2 to 4 days to complete the journey, depending on your available time and what you want to see.

Route 1 – M31 Hume Highway Inland

Route 2- a1/m1 princes highway coastal drive.

You can undertake a Melbourne to Sydney road trip at any time of year.

However, as it is a bustling route that regularly experiences heavy traffic, you might find the best time to do so will be during the school term. In particular, the autumn months of March to May (outside of Easter) and the spring months of September to November are good options, as traffic on the roads at non-rush hour times and not during the Sydney school holidays should be free-flowing.

During autumn, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it an ideal time to enjoy the outdoor attractions along the way, such as national parks, beaches, and wineries. The crowds at these places are usually thinner than during the peak summer season so you can enjoy them in a more relaxed and peaceful way.

Spring is also an excellent time to take this road trip. The weather is mild and comfortable, and the countryside comes to life with blooming flowers and lush greenery. If you are into nature and photography, this is also a terrific time to see and capture stunning landscapes.

If you don’t mind the crowds, the summer months of December to February are also a great time to undertake a Melbourne to Sydney road trip. There is usually plenty of sunshine around, which provides excellent conditions for beach activities and water sports. Remember that accommodation prices are much higher during Australian school holidays than during the shoulder seasons.

The winter period of June to August is generally not the best time to drive from Melbourne to Sydney, as it can be cold and rainy, particularly in the mountainous areas. However, winter can be great for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts taking the inland route, as there are several ski resorts in the Snowy Mountains along the way.

Best Stops On A Melbourne To Sydney Road Trip

Embarking on a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney presents a chance to immerse yourself in Australia’s diverse and stunning landscapes away from the big cities.

Depending on your route, this journey will lead you through the heart of the country or coastal Victoria and New South Wales.

Along the way, you will see thriving small towns that house ‘ridgy didge’ true-blue Aussies, eat food that showcases the best local produce, and witness some of the most incredible scenery you could ever wish to see.

Below are some of the most notable locations to visit.

• Make sure you’ve made your way through our list of Melbourne family highlights before you hit the road

Here are some great places to visit if you decide to take the inland M31 route, with some mustn’t-miss side detours we recommend from the Hume Highway:

Albury/Wodonga, Victoria/NSW (1 night)

Albury/Wodonga are twin cities that straddle the border of New South Wales and Victoria. Located about a 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne, they are good places for your first stop after leaving it. Both are known for being vibrant regional hubs with rich cultural heritages and stunning natural surroundings.

The Murray River runs through the area, which makes them top spots for fishing, boating, and water skiing. If you stop here, you can also explore the nearby Lake Hume , which offers a range of water activities and scenic walking trails.

In addition, the region possesses some impressive historic buildings, including the Albury Railway Station , a national heritage site. There are also a range of museums and galleries in the area, such as the Albury Regional Art Gallery and the Bonegilla Migrant Experience .

Both towns also have an excellent selection of dining and shopping options and are particularly known for their coffee culture (Campos coffee!)

Kosciuszko National Park, NSW (1-2 nights)

The Snowy Mountains are arguably the major highlight of the M31 route, so they’re worth checking out to see the magnificent landscape.

To do that, you must stop at Kosciuszko National Park , about a 6.5-hour drive from the Melbourne CBD.

Residing in New South Wales, it is named after the very Insta-worthy Mount Kosciuszko , Australia’s highest mountain. Even if you don’t intend to scale the 2,228 metres (7,310 feet), there’s plenty to see and do across the seasons.

Overall, the park covers an area of 6,900 square kilometres and is home to a stunning alpine landscape and a diverse population of fauna, including kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats.

It is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. The latter takes place within the park at The Snowy Mountains, which provides some of Australia’s best skiing and snowboarding during the winter months (yes, you can go skiing in Australia!)

For those who want to stay the night, plenty of accommodation is available to suit all tastes and budgets; try the towns of Thredbo for lodge accommodation or Jindabyne offers several tourist park options, including onsite cabins great for road trippers.

Want to include the “ Dog on the Tuckerbox ” on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip? This small but utterly iconic Aussie landmark statue can be found just north of Gundagai on the M31. It only takes a few minutes at this road stop, or stop in at the tea rooms and gift shop!

(A perfect pee stop, too if you’re skipping Kosciuszko and heading straight through to Canberra)

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (1 – 3 nights)

Canberra is the capital city of Australia, so it is well worth scheduling a stop there during your journey.

Located in the Australian Capital Territory , the city is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and picturesque natural surroundings.

One of the main attractions in Canberra is the Australian War Memorial , which houses a museum and commemorates the country’s involvement in various conflicts throughout history.

Other famous museums in the city include the National Museum of Australia , the National Gallery of Australia , and the Questacon Science Museum is a must with kids.

Canberra also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, in its many parks and nature reserves. Visitors can explore the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin in the heart of the city or take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside, the National Arboretum is another must!.

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Canberra is known for its world-class food and wine scene. It currently has over 20 hatted restaurants, so it has an excellent pedigree as a foodies’ destination.

• Bookmark our complete family guide to Canberra for more tips on where to stay and how to navigate your way around the city’s top attractions

The Canberra to Sydney Drive

From Canberra, you can head directly to Sydney in just over 3 hours, but we’d add in a few more fun roadside stops with the kids, including getting your picture with the Big Merino in Goulburn (yes Aussies are obsessed with “ Big Things “), or for a quintessential little Aussie town, make a playground and snack stop at Berrima.

• We cover the inland route from Canberra to Sydney in much more detail here

If you don’t mind the slightly longer drive, there are some simple superb places to stop along the M1/A1 (Princes Highway) coastal route from Melbourne to Sydney.

You could wizz through them all in two days of fairly intense driving, or take a week or two to enjoy these beautiful Australian coastal towns.

Lakes Entrance, Victoria (1-2 Nights)

Situated on the edge of the Gippsland Lakes , the largest inland waterway system in Australia, the scenic town of Lakes Entrance is a paradise for water lovers. Lakes Entrance is a haven for recreational enthusiasts with its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and charming waterways. The place offers a plethora of activities for everyone, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking.

The town’s main attraction is the Ninety Mile Beach , a breathtaking stretch of golden sand that invites visitors to take long walks, soak up the sun, or simply relax by the azure waters. For a unique experience, take a cruise on the Gippsland Lakes and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of country Victoria.

Lakes Entrance is also known for its fresh seafood. Indulge in delectable fish and chips or savour locally caught prawns and oysters at the waterfront eateries. It’s the perfect first stopping point on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

Croajingolong National Park, Victoria (1-2 nights)

If you love taking in incredible scenery and venturing into the great outdoors, you’ll want to visit Croajingolong National Park .

Situated about a 6-hour drive from Melbourne, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve resides in the far-eastern corner of Victoria and is a terrific base for an overnight stay.

Spanning over 100 kilometers of unspoiled coastline and covering an area of 87,500 hectares, the park is notable for its diverse range of ecosystems. They include pristine beaches, towering eucalyptus forests, and freshwater lakes.

It is also home to rare and endangered wildlife species, including the wonderfully named long-nosed potoroo and eastern bristlebird. 

Visitors to Croajingolong National Park can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and camping. The park’s walking trails also offer stunning coastline views, leading to secluded beaches and scenic lookouts, which you will probably have to yourself.

In addition, Croajingolong National Park is significant for its cultural heritage, with evidence of indigenous occupation dating back over 4,000 years. The park contains many sites of spiritual significance to the local Aboriginal communities, which are worth checking out.

Camping within the park is popular, particularly in the summer months. On a family road trip to Sydney, though, you may find more accommodation options in nearby Mallacoota , just before the NSW border.

There are several small towns you could stop in along the southern NSW coast, including Eden, Merimbula, and Wallaga Lake. At the very least, we’d plan on a play park pitstop at each of these smaller towns to break up the journey north along the East Coast.

Batemans Bay, NSW (1-2 nights)

Situated on the banks of the Clyde River, Batemans Bay is a charming coastal town located in the South Coast region of New South Wales. It is a popular holiday destination for Aussies because of its beautiful beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and abundant marine life.

Reached via a 4.5-hour drive from Croajingolong National Park, it is a place you can enjoy a few hours at or, indeed, stay overnight.

The likes of swimming, fishing, and water sports are very popular here. At the same time, visitors can also take a scenic cruise along the Clyde River to explore the town’s natural beauty and spot dolphins and seals along the way.

In addition to its natural attractions, Batemans Bay has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Plenty of accommodation, dining, and shopping options are also available, with various restaurants, cafes, hotels, and boutique stores in the town center. So, overall, it is an excellent place to eat, shop and stock up for the remainder of your road trip to Sydney. 

Jervis Bay (1 to 2 nights)

If you visit only one place on the M1/A1 route, make sure it is Jervis Bay . A stunning coastal region in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, it is known for its immaculate beaches and abundant marine life, including dolphins, whales, and seals.

The highlight of Jervis Bay is its famous white sand beaches, including Hyams Beach , which holds the Guinness World Record for having the whitest sand in the world. (Make sure you have your sunglasses, as it’s dazzling!)

Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling, which is a great way to get active after a long drive . Alternatively, you can relax on the beach and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Jervis Bay is also home to Booderee National Park , which allows visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The park features a range of walking trails, scenic lookouts, camping facilities, and important cultural sites of the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community that should be of interest.

Final Drive to Sydney

You easily break this journey up further with stops between Jervis Bay and Sydney, including Shoalhaven Heads, Lake Illawarra and Wollongong.

Whichever route you take, you’re bound to see some of the most dramatic countryside the country has to offer.

• If you’d like to spend a little longer meandering your way up the NSW coast, we cover the South Coast of NSW in much more detail in this itinerary
• And for where to stay and what to do in Sydney, jump on over next to our Sydney Family Holiday Guide

Don’t miss our complete collection of Aussie city guides for families:

ADELAIDE | BRISBANE | CAIRNS | CANBERRA | DARWIN | GOLD COAST | MELBOURNE | PERTH | SYDNEY

• If undertaking a road trip outside of the summer months, take a selection of clothes with you for all weather conditions. Temperatures can vary markedly between places and even within the space of a couple of hours.
• Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are planning on staying in a rural/country area of Australia, to avoid disappointment.
• While you may want to switch off and enjoy the journey, it’s important to stay connected for safety reasons. Make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone before you set off, and don’t forget to bring your charger with you, which you can plug into the car’s USB ports as you drive.
• Throughout Victoria and New South Wales, free Wi-Fi is available at all public libraries. You should also be able to get it at some shopping centres, some cafes, and most fast food outlets like McDonald’s and Hungry Jacks (Burger King).
• Treat these as scenic driving routes, not a race; speed limits in Australia are strictly enforced, and penalties are stiff if you break the rules.
• Find more of our fabulous tips for road tripping Australia with your family over here.

Continue your journey around Australia further with these driving itinerary suggestions:

• You can make a round trip of the southeast corner of Australia; starting from Sydney, you can follow this detailed itinerary from Sydney to Adelaide , via Canberra; then road trip Adelaide to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road and complete your journey with this Melbourne to Sydney itinerary – we’d allow at least three weeks for this trip.
• There are plenty of great destinations that can be explored from Sydney by car – we pick out 8 short driving itineraries to try.
• Experience the very best of the New South Wales coast with this Sydney to Byron Bay itinerary , capturing many of Australia’s most popular beach towns – add a further week to 10 days.
• Drive the highlights of the East Coast – Sydney to Cairns along Highway 1 , or detour inland to experience the New England Highway and more regional areas of NSW before heading to Far North Queensland – add at least two weeks.
• One of the most epic drives, roaming Sydney to the Red Centre – Uluru, will give you a true taste of Australiana and life in the outback – we would only attempt this trip if you have at least a month on your Australian itinerary as there will be a lot of long driving days.

© Family Road Trip 2024

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Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip: The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary (Coastal Route)

There’s perhaps nothing more iconic in Australia than a Melbourne to Sydney road trip. The drive between Australia’s two largest cities has a little bit of everything; stunning beaches, secluded camping spots, rugged national parks, pretty coastal towns, and a vibrant vanlife community.

Whether you’ve got a campervan or taking the trip in your own vehicle, the coastal route between Melbourne and Sydney is one of my favourite drives. It allows you to explore the Gippsland area of Victoria and the South Coast of New South Wales ; two regions that I’ve spent a lot of time over the last two years.

If you’ve got two weeks or more up your sleeve, then I’ve compiled the ultimate Melbourne to Sydney road trip itinerary to help you craft the perfect trip. Slip into the slow lane, switch off in some of the campgrounds, and enjoy life on the east coast of Australia.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Quick Look at a Two Week Itinerary for Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip

• Distance: 1,300+ km (if visiting suggested places)
• Time: Two weeks minimum

Day 1: Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory National Park

• Day 2: Wilsons Prom

Day 3: Wilsons Prom to Lakes Entrance

Day 4: lakes entrance to mallacoota, day 5: mallacoota to merimbula, day 6: merimbula to bermagui, day 7: bermagui to narooma, day 8: narooma to murramarang national park, day 9: murramarang national park to ulladulla, day 10: ulladulla to huskisson.

• Day 11: Huskisson to Jervis Bay or Currarong

Day 12: Jervis Bay or Currarong to Kiama

Day 13: kiama to royal national park, day 14: royal national park to sydney.

How Long to Spend Driving from Melbourne to Sydney

You can drive Melbourne to Sydney in 2-3 days if you have minimal breaks and take the quickest route inland. However, this means you’d miss out on all the incredible things there are to do and see between Australia’s two biggest cities.

I recommend taking at least two weeks to do the road trip. This means you really get to enjoy the pretty coastal towns and have time to relax on the beautiful beaches en route. Plus, it means you won’t have many long driving days.

This blog post is based on taking the slow way up the east coast. You could, of course, drive inland to reach Sydney from Melbourne, but I’m going to detail the scenic coastal route instead.

If you have less than two weeks , then I’d say you could skip Wilsons Prom, Merimbula, Murramarang National Park, Jervis Bay and Currarong, and Royal National Park, from my suggested itinerary.

But if you have more than two weeks (even better!), then I’m going to outline a couple of places you can add to your itinerary below. These include, Phillip Island, Tarra-Bulga National Park, Cape Conran, Budawang National Park and Kangaroo Valley.

Tips for a Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip

• Don’t forget roadside assistance and/or travel insurance as you never know what might happen along the way
• Download Petrol Spy app or similar to find the cheapest fuel on the way, as some of the fuel stations charge a lot more on the coast
• Distances between towns are not as vast as the Adelaide to Darwin road trip , but you should still schedule regular breaks or opt for this two week itinerary below which doesn’t cover huge distances per day
• If you plan this road trip during summer, be prepared for plenty of crowds on the coast and campgrounds are often booked out well in advance, so plan ahead
• Don’t forget to purchase a NSW Parks Pass if you plan on visiting Murramarang and Royal National Parks or others
• Avoid driving at night as this is the most dangerous time to drive, especially with so much wildlife on the road. Ensure you reach camp or a town before sunset

Where to Stay Along the Way

As you drive the coastal route between Melbourne and Sydney, there’s plenty of options for accommodation. If you’re taking a campervan or car camping setup, then you’ll find some incredible campgrounds from free beach camps to caravan parks in towns. Download WikiCamps to find the best spots.

Otherwise, there’s accommodation for all budgets, from cheap motels to apartments with sea views. You’ll find some of my recommendations below under each stop, plus some free camping locations as well.

Read next: 10 Best Campgrounds on the South Coast

Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip Itinerary

If you have two weeks to drive from Melbourne to Sydney, then this itinerary suggests all the best places to stop and things to do on the way. From beautiful national parks to friendly coastal towns, you’ll be able to see the best of Gippsland and the NSW South Coast as you make your way between the two largest cities in Australia.

Road Trip Essentials

• Reusable coffee cup
• Reef safe sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle
• Walking shoes
• Healthy snacks

Distance: 225 km Time: 3.5 hours

It may seem a little out of the way (you could easily skip Wilsons Prom and just drive straight to Lakes Entrance, if you’re short on time), but Wilsons Prom National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Victoria (some may even say Australia!).

The peninsula extending out into the ocean is the southernmost point of mainland Australia and is characterised by rugged mountains, pristine beaches, an abundance of native wildlife and some fantastic walks.

Tidal River  is the main hub of the national park and is where the camping and accommodation is located. It’s around a 30-minute drive beyond the entrance gate and on the west coast of the peninsula.

On the way from Melbourne and after you enter the park, stop on the way to Tidal River at some of the following spots:

• The Big Drift sand dunes
• Mount Bishop summit walk
• Squeaky Beach

Add: Phillip Island

If you have a bit more time up your sleeve, I’d recommend adding a couple of days to visit Phillip Island before heading to Wilsons Prom. The popular coastal island in South Gippsland is a well-known family holiday destination, with a rugged coastline, sandy beaches, waves worthy of surfers of all levels, and the bubbly main hub of Cowes.

It’s also famous for being home to the fairy penguins that come ashore each night. However, the island has plenty of other things to do, including great walks, beaches, adventure activities, events and cafes.

Read next: 26 Best Things to Do on Phillip Island

Day 2: Explore Wilsons Prom

I recommend staying in Wilsons Prom for two nights as this gives you more time to explore the incredible national park. On your full day, you can complete some day walks such as:

• Mount Oberon

Read next: Complete Guide to Wilsons Prom National Park

Distance: 286 km Time: 4 hours

This is a decent half day drive, but there’s plenty of opportunities to stop along the way. Lakes Entrance is another popular holiday destination in Victoria and is a pretty fishing and port town on the Gippsland coast.

During the drive from Tidal River to Lakes Entrance, I recommend exploring 90 Mile Beach and the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park with stops in Seaspray and Paynesville. Otherwise, you can easily spend the afternoon on Lakes Entrance Beach, as well.

Stay in Lakes Entrance | Echo Beach Tourist Park or Waverley House Cottages

Prefer free camping? Head to Log Crossing Picnic Area in Colquhoun Regional Park just outside of town for a beautiful bush camp near the rail trail.

Add: Tarra-Bulga National Park

If you have some extra time or leave Wilsons Prom early in the morning, make a stop in at Tarra-Bulga National Park on the way to Lakes. Once you reach Yarram on the South Gippsland Highway, you can turn off towards the national park via the Tarra Valley Road. This windy, skinny road is incredibly beautiful and leads to the several walks and waterfalls in the national park.

Don’t miss:

• Cyathea Falls
• Corrigan Suspension Bridge
• Tarra Falls

Read more: Walks and Waterfalls in Tarra-Bulga National Park

Distance: 202 km Time: 2.5 hours

The relatively short drive from Lakes Entrance to Mallacoota is quite varied. It’s an easy drive on the A1; you’ll cross the mighty Snowy River in Orbost, then wind your way through the bush to Cann River, before reaching the turnoff for Mallacoota in Genoa.

If you’re a keen hiker, you should have time to head to Genoa Peak and hike up to the top for a spectacular panoramic view of Croajingolong National Park and the Mallacoota Inlet. The turn off for this is just before Genoa.

Considering how secluded the small town of Mallacoota is, it’s a popular summer destination for Victorians. Surrounded by national park, home to fluffy koala bears, and some incredible walks, I loved my time in Mallacoota.

With some stunning natural beauty, you can enjoy fishing, boating, SUP-ing, kayaking and walking. Outside of summer, you’ll find the chilled town an incredible oasis from the South Coast of NSW further up.

Stay in Mallacoota | Shady Gully Caravan Park or The Wave Oasis B&B

Prefer free camping? Stay in Genoa at the recreation reserve, which operates on a donation basis, plenty of room with a large grassed area and toilets for tents, camper vans and caravans.

Add: Cape Conran

Between Marlo and Bemm River, Cape Conran is somewhat of a hidden gem for anyone who doesn’t live in Gippsland. While it’s a longstanding family favourite for locals, I would say most people driving from Melbourne to Sydney would never know it was there.

Cape Conran Coastal Park is home to some rugged beaches and walking trails, secluded camping spots amongst Banksias and Manna Gums, and a wide cast of wildlife from monitors to whales.

I camped at the main campground, Banksia Bluff , which is the perfect place to switch off and and enjoy some serenity. Otherwise, there’s also more remote camps with less facilities.

Distance: 111 km Time: 1.5 hours

A relatively short driving day, but there’s plenty of things to see between Mallacoota and Merimbula. From Mallacoota, the New South Wales border is just a short drive north and then, you’ll be driving along what is referred to as the South Coast (of NSW).

Merimbula itself is a popular holiday resort town that is heaving in summer. Nicely situated between Merimbula Lake and Merimbula Bay, there’s plenty of beautiful beaches and water activities to partake in.

Places to stop along the way to Merimbula include:

• Green Cape Lighthouse (Beowa National Park)
• The Pinnacles (Beowa National Park)
• Pambula Beach

Stay in Merimbula | Beach Cabins Merimbula or Hillcrest Motel

Read next: 20 Best Places to Visit on the South Coast (from Eden to Sydney)

Distance: 68 km Time: 1 hour

From Merimbula, you could continue north on the A1, but I recommend taking Sapphire Coast Drive and Tathra-Bermagui Road instead. These quieter roads will get you to Bermagui on a more scenic drive closer to the coast.

This also means you can stop in the pretty little town of Tathra and explore Mimosa Rocks National Park on the way.

Bermagui is one of my favourite towns on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip, so it’s worth spending the day around town. Check out the famous Bermagui Blue Pool , an artificial ocean rock pool, where you can spot dolphins and seals throughout most of the year, and even whales in winter.

Stay in Bermagui | Bermagui Beach Hotel or Reflections Holiday Park

Distance: 34 km Time: 30 minutes

I know the driving times are getting shorter, but there’s just too many nice places to stop. Narooma is arguably one of the most naturally beautiful places on the South Coast. With the Wagonga Inlet, coastal lakes, sandy coves and some of the clearest water, a day around Narooma is worth planning.

Some of the best things to do in Narooma include:

• Australia Rock
• Swimming in Wagonga Beach
• Mill Bay Boardwalk
• Cycle from Narooma to Dalmeny
• Glasshouse Rocks

Stay in Narooma | The Beach Shack at Dalmeny or Beachfront Apartments

Prefer free camping? Head just north of Dalmeny on the A1 to Bodalla Forest Rest Area for a beautiful and convenient free camping spot with toilets.

Distance: 90 km Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Murramarang National Park is one of the most beautiful coastal parks in New South Wales. Spanning over 40km of coastline from Batemans Bay up to Bawley Point, it’s where the dense bushland meets the sea.

Walking, fishing, swimming, surfing and camping are just some of the popular activities you can do in the park. I stayed at Depot Beach Campground , which has great camping facilities surrounded by the bush and crashing waves. Otherwise, there are other campgrounds to choose from too.

If you don’t want to camp in the national park, you can either stop before it in Batemans Bay area or continue north to Ulladulla and just visit the park for the day.

Distance: 48 km Time: 45 minutes

A short drive from Murramarang National Park is Ulladulla; another of my favourite towns on the South Coast. The Ulladulla/Mollymook area has some great surf breaks, long beaches, trendy shops and cafes, and friendly locals. It’s probably the place I’ve stayed the longest on my Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

There’s so much to do in the area, try to find time for:

• Warden Head Lighthouse
• Surfing at Dolphin Point or Collers Beach
• Walking along Mollymook Beach
• Lunch or a drink in the historic town of Milton

Stay in Ulladulla | Motel Molly Boutique Hotel or Ingenia Holidays Ulladulla

Add: Budawang National Park and Morton National Park

If you’re a keen hiker, then heading inland for a day or two to the Budawangs is a must. An incredible wilderness area that is rugged and isolated and filled with some epic hikes and views, as well as basic camping.

Some of the roads are a bit rough for a 2WD, so it’s best to check road and trail conditions in Batemans Bay or Ulladulla before heading out. Some of the best walks to do in the region include:

• Pigeon House Walking Track
• The Castle Walking Track (very hard!)
• Fitzroy Falls
• Mount Budawang
• Mount Bushwalker

Read next: What to Pack for a Day Hike

Distance: 54 km Time: 45 minutes

From one popular holiday town to the next. Huskisson is arguably one of the most well-known spots for the summer madness. It’s not hard to see why though, with stunning beaches, a main street full of cafes and shops, whale watching cruises leaving right from the harbour, and several beachfront caravan parks.

However, it’s Huskisson’s vicinity to some of the South Coast’s most beautiful spots that makes it an ideal stop. You can explore nearby Hyams Beach (claims to have the whitest sand in Australia), Currarong and the Beecroft Peninsula and Jervis Bay. More on these below.

Stay in Huskisson | The Beach Studio or Jervis Bay Holiday Park

Day 11: Huskisson to Currarong or Jervis Bay

If you’re sticking to a 2 week itinerary then you’ll have to choose between exploring Jervis Bay or the Beecroft Peninsula. If you have more time, then you can do both. The two peninsula’s either side of Huskisson have stunning white sand beaches that are arguably some of the most beautiful in the country. You can do either as a day trip from Huskisson or stay the night in Currarong or camp inside Booderee National Park on Jervis Bay.

In Currarong, don’t miss the rock pools on Currarong Beach and head off on foot in the Abrahams Bosom Reserve to the famous Gosangs Tunnel , a unique rock tunnel with views of the rugged coastline.

The rest of the peninsula is controlled by the navy, but it opens on weekends and in holidays for exploring more of the coast, including Honeymoon Bay and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse.

Down in Jervis Bay, explore Booderee National Park, home to white sand beaches, crystal clear water, high coastal cliffs, and native wildlife. You can stay at one of the campgrounds, such as Green Patch or Cave Beach , and spend the day beach hopping from one cove to the next.

Distance: 66 km Time: 1 hour

The short drive from the Huskisson area up to Kiama takes you through Nowra, one of the largest towns on the South Coast. Then, you can add a side trip to Kangaroo Valley if you have time (more on this next), otherwise continue through Berry (another beautiful historic town) to Kiama.

Kiama has become one of the most popular weekend getaways from Sydney. The attractive town is built over the rolling cliffs of Illawarra, with rock pools, natural blow holes, and stunning viewpoints.

The main street is filled with cafes and boutique shops, but it’s the surrounding sights that makes Kiama one of my favourite spots on the South Coast. Don’t miss the Kiama rock pool , lighthouse and famous blowhole which are all nearby on Blowhole Point, walking distance from the Main Street.

It’s also worth visiting Bombo Headland Geological Site just south of Kiama Downs. This is a really unique rock formation area, with a nice walk and some great surf at Boneyard Beach. Continue up to Minnamurra, if you have time for some whale watching and beautiful views.

Stay in Kiama | Kiama Shores or Surf Beach Holiday Park

Read more: 18 Best Things to Do in Kiama

Add: Kangaroo Valley

Swap the coast for the rainforest with a slight detour off the South Coast to Kangaroo Valley. It’s just 45km inland from Kiama on a windy and steep road up and over the escarpment. But, you’ll find a quaint town, amongst lush green forest and on the banks of the tumbling Kangaroo River.

It’s become a favourite spot for a nature reset, with great walks nearby, waterfalls and good food. Stay the night if you can, and try the Red Rock Trig walk, kayaking down the river or visit the farmers market on the weekend.

Stay in Kangaroo Valley | Wildes Hotel or Gumnut Tiny Stay

Distance: 90 km Time: 1.5 hours

After Kiama, you’ll pass through Wollongong, another large town on the South Coast. This surf city has plenty of beaches to check out. Otherwise, jump off the M1 and onto Grand Pacific Drive.

This scenic drive takes you along the coast and over the famous Sea Cliff Bridge across the ocean. Then, you’ll come to Royal National Park, just outside of Sydney. You could easily skip this park if you wanted, but I recommend spending a night camping in the park or staying nearby to experience some of the walks and coastal views.

Some of the best walks include:

• Figure 8 Pools
• Wattamolla to Eagle Rock
• Karloo Pools
• The Coast Track (multi-day)

Distance: 35 km Time: 1 hour

From Royal National Park, you’re basically in Sydney and have completed the Melbourne to Sydney road trip! If you’re looking for day trips from Sydney, there are so many national parks on the outskirts of the city:

• Blue Mountains National Park
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
• Dharug National Park
• Bouddi National Park

Want More Epic Road Trips in Australia?

• Ultimate 1 Week Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip
• Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary
• Road Trip Guide to the Great Ocean Road
• Ultimate Red Centre Way Road Trip Itinerary
• Ultimate 7 Day Adelaide to Perth Road Trip

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The Ultimate Warrumbungles Overnight Hike: Grand High Tops and Mt Exmouth Loop

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Melbourne to Sydney drive: the ultimate guide

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

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

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

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

Melbourne to Sydney roadtrip itinerary

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

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

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

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

Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive map:

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

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

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

Where to stay in Gippsland Lakes

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

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

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

Day 2: Lakes Entrance to Eden (2h45m)

Things to do in gippsland lakes.

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

Why should you visit Raymond Island? This guy:

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Eden

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in eden.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Narooma

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Narooma to Murramarang (1h15m)

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

Things to do in Narooma

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Murramarang to Sydney (3h45m)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surviving family road trip from Sydney to Melbourne

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

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

Plan your trip to Australia

Don’t miss these helpful guides as you plan the rest of your amazing trip to Australia!

• Action-packed Australia travel itineraries for every length of trip
• Your 5 day Australia adventure in Port Douglas
• Quicksilver Reef Cruises: the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef with kids
• The best way to visit Kuranda, the village in Australia’s rainforest
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures: a family-friendly crocodile tour in Cairns
• The Best 10 Things to do on the Gold Coast with Kids
• An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Kangaroo Island, Australia
• Top 7 awesome family experiences in Margaret River
• A spectacular way to see Coles Bay, Tasmania: kayaking with Freycinet Adventures
• The best snorkel gear for kids of every age (+ how to teach your kids to use it)
• How to give your baby a bath while traveling

What to read next

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

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

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

They had SUCH a great time!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Melbourne to Sydney Drive Itinerary: Amazing Coastal Road Trip

by Lisa Bull | Last updated Jun 29, 2023 | Road Trips Australia

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

Passing through beautiful Victoria and South Coast NSW, this Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive itinerary will take you on one of Australia’s most iconic road trips.

The Princes Highway (A1) route is packed with scenic drive stops and detours to picturesque holiday towns. Highlights include a Jervis Bay dolphin cruise or Phillip Island eco tour .

I travelled the 1,123 km from Melbourne to Sydney by car on a 1-week trip , but 2 weeks would have been ideal. If you have less time, you could easily plan your Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive to take 4 or 5 days, or even 2 or 3 days if necessary.

This Sydney to Melbourne road trip planner includes the best places to stop and stay overnight and the top attractions that I would recommend from my trip, whether you’re driving from Melbourne to Sydney or vice versa.

Melbourne to Sydney Drive Itinerary Overview

Here are my recommended destinations to add to your Sydney to Melbourne drive itinerary, along with the time I’d recommend staying at each place. To skip straight to a destination, just click on the links below.

Melbourne to Sydney Drive FAQs

• 1. Melbourne: 3 days to 2 weeks
• 2. Phillip Island: 1 day
• 3. Wilsons Promontory National Park: 1 day
• 4. Lakes Entrance: 1 day
• 5. Eden: 1-2 days
• 6. Batemans Bay: 2 days
• 7. Jervis Bay: 2 days
• 8. Wollongong: 1 day
• 9. Sydney: 3 days to 2 weeks

Sydney to Melbourne Car Hire

Make sure you find the best price for car hire in Sydney or Melbourne by using Kayak as a starting point. They compare hundreds of car hire sites to save you hours of research.

>> Click here to compare car hire prices and book your rental car <<

The coastline between Melbourne and Sydney is packed with stunning scenery, so it is well worth the drive. Highlights include kangaroos on the beach in stunning Murramarang National Park, sea lions basking in the sun in pretty Eden and the gorgeous Grand Pacific Drive. The Jervis Bay region in South Coast NSW is mind-blowingly scenic too.

The direct Melbourne to Sydney drive time is 14.5 hours along the coastal A1 route, and the total driving distance is 1,123 km . I spent a week on my Melbourne to Sydney self drive, but you can do the coastal journey in 2 or 3 days if necessary. I would recommend at least 4 days on your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip to make the most of the journey.

If you want to get from Melbourne to Sydney in a day, the inland route along the Hume Highway is quickest, at a distance of 879 km and a drive time of around 9 hours .

In my experience, the coastal route between Sydney and Melbourne is more scenic than the inland route via the M31, even though the journey is 150 km longer.

If you’re taking the coastal route between Sydney and Melbourne, Eden would be a lovely place for an overnight stop that is approximately halfway along your journey.

My 7-day Melbourne to Sydney road trip cost $589 in total. This breaks down into $226 for petrol (scale this up to around $365 for 2023 prices), $268 for accommodation, $70 on food and $25 for a tour.

A self-driven trip from Melbourne to Sydney or vice versa is extremely easy. The roads are sealed and there are many populated towns along the way to pick up supplies, such as Lakes Entrance, Batemans Bay and Eden.

For a detailed cost breakdown of all the Australian road trips I have taken, including Sydney to Melbourne, read my blog post on the cost of backpacking Australia .

1. Melbourne

Melbourne’s a very cool, cosmopolitan city with lots of street art and quirky cafés . I’d spend at least 7 days in Melbourne if possible.

Top things to do in Melbourne include sweeping views at Melbourne Skydeck, funky Hosier Lane street art and fun at St Kilda Beach.

B est T hings to Do in Melbourne

• Discover over 10,000 types of aquatic animals at the SEA LIFE Aquarium in Melbourne , as well as enjoy interactive experiences like feeding fish and sitting with penguins.
• My all-time favourite Melbourne attraction was Melbourne Skydeck, which has phenomenal views across the city from the 88th floor of Eureka Tower! This fun Melbourne Skydeck experience includes entry to the Skydeck plus a choice between stepping out onto The Edge, a glass-bottom cube projected out of the building, or a virtual reality film in the Melbourne Skydeck Voyager Theatre. Click here to check prices .
• Enjoy the best of Melbourne’s secret cafes, hidden shops and funky, off-the-beaten-track galleries with this 2.5-hour, wheelchair-accessible Guided Melbourne Laneways Tour .

Melbourne Accommodation

If you’re looking for places to stay in Melbourne at the start or end of your Sydney to Melbourne road trip, here are some of your best accommodation options.

Be aware that Melbourne accommodation gets booked up heavily during summer and school holidays, so make sure you book in advance. I almost spent a night in my car when I arrived, as I hadn’t booked in advance!

MELBOURNE HOUSE SITS

My favourite type of travel accommodation by far is house sitting, especially as Australia is such an expensive country.

House sitting is when you stay in a local person’s home for free while they’re on holiday in return for looking after their pets and home.

I house sat in Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne on my road trip, and now house sit full time in Sydney without needing my own place! Here are my recommended sites to join.

• If you want to house sit in Australia only, Aussie House Sitters is a great option. They’re one of the largest pet-sitting sites in the country, and I got plenty of jobs through them on my travels.
• To have the option of house sitting worldwide, click here to get 20% off an annual membership with Trusted Housesitters . They have jobs in over 130 countries and offer really unique perks, such as sit-cancellation compensation.

Check out my blog post on how to become a house sitter if you fancy free luxury accommodation instead of forking out for hostels.

MELBOURNE HOTELS

Use the search box below to search for Melbourne hotels, apartments and hostels.

MELBOURNE HOSTELS

I’ve personally stayed at the Melbourne hostels below and would recommend both of them!

• HabitatHQ , St Kilda, Melbourne : I stayed at this modern, beachside hostel , which has won awards for sustainability. The dorm beds are cheap, and the location is great.
• The Nunnery , Fitzroy, Melbourne : I also stayed at this quirky, converted nunnery and thought it was really unique. The hostel has dorm beds as well as private rooms, and lots of nearby bars, funky cafes and street art.

2. Phillip Island

If you haven’t already visited Phillip Island on a day trip from Melbourne, do add it onto your Melbourne to Sydney road trip itinerary. 

It’s a beautiful, rugged place home to over 32,000 little penguins , and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a well-known, nightly event where you can watch the little penguins waddle in from the ocean at sunset to set up camp for the night. I’d definitely recommend it!

Phillip Island Attractions

• Book tickets to watch the Little Penguins waddle in at sunset on the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade !
• This 1-hour Cape Woolamai Nature Cruise lets you enjoy Phillip Island’s spectacular scenery from the water. You’ll also hear commentary about the local marine life and sea birds and watch the daily pelican feeding in San Remo at the end.
• See native Australian wildlife at the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park on this Phillip Island Eco Wildlife Tour . The trip also stops at the colourful Brighton Beach bathing boxes, The Nobbies, Point Grant and Seal Rocks before finishing up at the Penguin Island on this 12-hour tour. Click here to learn more .

Distance and Drive Time

• Melbourne to Phillip Island distance: 145 kilometres
• Melbourne to Phillip Island drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Phillip Island Accommodation

• BIG4 Phillip Island Caravan Park : This family-friendly holiday par k at Newhaven Beach has all the great facilities of BIG4 accommodation. There’s an on-site games room, playground, jumping pillow, camp kitchen and volleyball and basketball courts. In the summer there’s also an outdoor cinema.
• The Island Accommodation – Hostel : A modern eco-friendly hostel with private rooms and dorms from $30 per person per night. I was really impressed with this place.
• North Pier Hotel : This 3* hotel opposite Cowes Beach has a swimming pool, on-site restaurant and bar plus free Wi-Fi and parking.

3. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Prom, as it’s known to the locals, is a great place to spend a day or two, with plenty of great walks and beaches .

The top attractions in Wilsons Promontory National Park include iconic Squeaky Beach , with its turquoise water, squeaky sand and granite boulders. For accommodation in Wilsons Prom, try township  Tidal River , which has camping and beautiful walking tracks.

Wilsons Promontory Tour

• This fun Wilsons Promontory Day Tour from Melbourne includes a choice of hikes as well as a visit to Squeaky Beach and transport to and from Melbourne. Click here to learn more.
• Philip Island to Foster distance: 104 kilometres
• Philip Island to Foster drive time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Melbourne to Foster distance: 178 kilometres
• Melbourne to Foster drive time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Wilsons Promontory Accommodation

• Prom Central Caravan Park : This caravan park in Foster has camping sites and bungalows as well as a laundry and free parking.
• Wilsons Promontory Motel : All rooms at this 3* motel in Foster have fridges, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, free Wi-Fi and furnished patios. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar.
• Tidal River Campground : Camping sites from $57 per site per night. (I didn’t stay here and must say I’ve never seen a campsite so expensive!)

4. Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is a very popular coastal holiday town at the northern end of the Gippsland Lakes area and makes a good base if you want to explore East Gippsland.

I only spent one night here – it was pretty cold and windy in the winter – but there are plenty of walks, cycling tracks and water activities such as kayaking available if you want to stay for longer.

Drive Stops on the way to Lakes Entrance

• Sale : This is a nice city to stop at if you need a coffee break. The Wild Honey Café was lovely!
• Shoreline Drive : I took a detour down to the beach at Seaspray and drove along the coastal road to Golden Beach and 90 Mile Beach before heading back inland to head east.
• Eagle Point & Paynesville: For another scenic detour, check out the views from Eagle Point and the pretty little seaside town of Paynesville before carrying on to Lakes Entrance.

• Foster to Lakes Entrance distance: 226 kilometres
• Foster to Lakes Entrance drive time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Lakes Entrance Accommodation

• Koonwarra Holiday Park : I enjoyed my stay in a cabin at this pet-friendly 4* caravan park . There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi and camp kitchen. As well as camp sites you can book budget cabins with one, two or three bedrooms.
• The Esplanade Motel : This centrally located motel has rooms starting at $85. The ground-floor rooms have air-con, fridges, en-suite bathrooms, TVs, kettles and even electric blankets!
• The Esplanade Resort & Spa : If you’re on a higher budget, this 4* resort has a choice of hotel rooms and apartments, a large swimming pool, tennis court, restaurant and spa.

Eden was one of my absolute favourite places to stay on the Sydney to Melbourne drive, and I wish I could have spent 2 days or longer there.

Top attractions in Eden include beautiful Lake Curalo and wonderfully serene Aslings Beach . Make sure you check out the lookouts on the Eden Rotary Walk too.

Places to Stop on the Way

• Cann River:   A lovely little town for a lunch break, and the gateway to Croajingalong National Park if this is on your itinerary.
• Mallacoota:  A small holiday town that’s worth exploring. Head to Panoramic Drive (the coastal road off Allan Drive) for beautiful ocean views; you might even spot a seal basking in the sun like I did! The beach at Bastion Point is great to stroll along too.

• Lakes Entrance to Eden distance: 242 kilometres
• Lakes Entrance to Eden drive time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Eden Accommodation

• Eden Gateway Holiday Park : You can either camp or stay in a self-contained studio or villa at this holiday park just a 15-minute walk from Aslings Beach. The park has an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, children’s playground and camp kitchen.
• Eden Nimo Motel : There aren’t any hostels in Eden, but I stayed at this very cheap motel , which has has double and twin rooms starting from $55.
• Eagle Heights Holiday Units : Each of these modern, clifftop apartments has a fully equipped kitchen, air-con, TV and DVD player. There’s also a garden overlooking the ocean, hot tub and barbecue facilities on site.

6. Batemans Bay

The drive from Eden to Batemans Bay is particularly scenic, and there’s lots of great things to do in Batemans Bay ; I ended up spending two nights here as the driving had burnt me out, and I’m really glad I did.

The town of Batemans Bay is lovely, and set on the entrance to the Clyde River on Australia’s Oyster Coast with beautiful views from the waterside cafes. It also makes a great base to explore the Eurobodalla region.

I’d thoroughly recommend exploring Murramarang National Park to the north of the town; it’s packed with beautiful beaches.

An absolute must-see is Pebbly Beach : it’s not only extremely pretty with the grassy area behind it, but lots of wild kangaroos live there and it’s full of Rainbow Lorikeets and Australian King Parrots. One even landed on my arm!

Durras North Beach was particularly beautiful too, with enviable beachside houses where kangaroos lazed around in the front gardens!

• Ben Boyd National Park : make sure you check out this national park just north of Eden. The stripy cliffs at the Pinnacles are stunning!

• Tathra: for a scenic coastal detour on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip, leave the Princes Highway and take the Sapphire Coast Drive through the forest instead, starting in Merimbula. Stop by at the Tathra Wharf Lookout for pretty views across Boulder Bay.
• Cuttagee Lake: heading north on the Tathra-Bermgui Road, you’ll wind through forest and come to the bridge at Cuttagee Lake. There’s lots of parking spaces here, and it’s a pretty spot to get out and take a few photos.

• Bermagui: after a few more bridges you’ll drive right along the coastline for a while before reaching Bermagui, which is lovely around the Fishermen’s Wharf at the mouth of the river.
• Narooma: pass by the pretty Wallaga Lake and the road will rejoin the Princes Highway and take you up to Narooma, a popular holiday town in the Eurobodalla region known for its clear blue water.
• Eden to Batemans Bay distance: 197 kilometres
• Eden to Batemans Bay drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Batemans Bay Accommodation

• Batemans Bay YHA & Holiday Park : I stayed at this basic, fairly retro  YHA hostel with dorms and an adjoining camping and caravan park.
• Mariners on the Waterfront : This lovely 4* waterfront hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant and free Wi-Fi. Most rooms have balconies overlooking the Clyde River, and the accommodation is only a 2-minute walk into town.

7. Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is my absolute favourite Melbourne to Sydney drive stopover. There are so many beautiful attractions in Jervis Bay , and famous Hyams Beach is said to have the whitest sand in the world.

I was lucky enough to return here a few times on house sits after my road trip, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Jervis Bay Attractions

• This Jervis Bay 1.5-Hour Dolphin Cruise takes you sailing through clear, sparkling water to admire stunning white beaches and natural scenery while you spot local dolphins.
• This 2-Hour Cruise of Jervis Bay Passage from Huskisson passes Point Perpendicular cliffs and Hyams Beach, said to have the whitest sand in the world. Keep an eye out for dolphins and local birdlife.
• Batemans Bay to Jervis Bay distance: 108 kilometres
• Batemans Bay to Jervis Bay drive time: 1 hours 25 minutes

Jervis Bay Accommodation

There’s very little backpacker accommodation in Jervis Bay unless you’re camping. The cheap Airbnb I stayed in is no longer running, and it’s mostly pricey holiday cottages and hotels there.

• Jervis Bay Holiday Park : This holiday park in Huskisson has budget cabins starting at $90 which would be quite cheap between a few of you.
• The Huskisson : For a central location close to shops and restaurant, The Huskisson pub and restaurant has beachfront hotel rooms with air-con, flat screen TVs, private bathrooms, desks and free Wi-Fi
• Huskisson Beach Motel : This modern motel near the beach has an on-site restaurants and bar, air-conditioned rooms with fridges, kettles and toasters and renovated private bathrooms.

8. Wollongong

Wollongong is the t hird-largest city in New South Wales and has fantastic beaches, plenty of restaurants and a beautiful mountainous backdrop. It’s a busy city with a big university and plenty to do, so makes great overnight stop between Sydney and Melbourne.

Places to See on the way

• I’d recommend a drive stop in pretty Kiama . This lovely seaside town has beautiful beaches and walks, lots of green scenery and a very famous blowhole!

Wollongong Attractions

• This Tandem Beach Skydive will award you with coastal views all the way to Jervis Bay from 15,000 feet above Wollongong!
• Jervis Bay to Wollongong distance: 102 kilometres
• Jervis Bay to Wollongong drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Wollongong Accommodation

• Keiraleagh Backpackers : This is the only hostel in Wollongong now (the YHA closed down), and I’ve stayed there a couple of times. It does have a certain charm and the staff are friendly, but parts of it are quite run down. It’s well located though and the garden is lovely.
• Helensburgh Hotel : If you don’t mind staying outside of the city, this hotel in Helensburgh has great reviews. There’s a garden, bar and free WI-Fi too.
• Wollongong Serviced Apartments : These self-contained 4* apartments with balconies are right in Wollongong city centre, and with fully equipped kitchens, great for those who want to prepare their own food.

The final place to stop on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip is Sydney, Australia’s biggest city!

There are so many amazing attractions in Sydney , including over 100 beaches. I fell in love with the city the first time I visited back in 2001 and moved here permanently in 2016!

I’d schedule in some time to see the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and try a few of the many beautiful Sydney walks .

Places to Stop on the Way to Sydney from Melbourne:

Grand pacific drive and sea cliff bridge.

Make sure you take the coastal route north of Wollongong so you don’t miss the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge on the Grand Pacific Drive . This 665m bridge between Clifton and Coalcliff snakes around the coastline and overhangs the ocean!

If you want to walk across Sea Cliff Bridge, there are a few parking spaces on the ocean side of the road at Clifton, or a road leading to a carpark at Coalcliff (signed “Sea Cliff Bridge Parking”). You’ll need to walk to Paterson Road and past Leeder Park and Coalcliff rock pool from the car park.

Bald Hill lookout at Stanwell Tops is also a must on the Grand Pacific Drive.

Royal National Park

There are plenty of great walks in the Royal National Park if you have the time to stop, but the area is easily accessible as a day trip from Sydney.

There’s a car park at the Otford Lookout on Lady Wakehurst Drive where you can get onto the start of the Royal Coast Walk and head down to Werrong Beach.

• Wollongong to Sydney distance: 86 kilometres
• Wollongong to Sydney drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Sydney Accommodation

If you’re not sure where to stay in Sydney, make sure you read my guide on the best places to stay in Sydney . I runs through the best areas to stay in and the best accommodation options.

SYDNEY HOUSE SITS

Just like with Melbourne, my top tip to save money on accommodation in Sydney is to house sit. It’s so in demand here that I’ve been house sitting in Sydney since 2016 and have saved over $70k in rent so far.

If you’re visiting Sydney around Christmas and New Year, that’s the most popular time for locals to go on holiday and need a house sitter. Remember summer is at Christmastime in Australia, so the kids are off school for the long holidays!

My favourite house-sitting websites are Aussie House Sitters , the largest pet-sitting site in Australia, and Trusted Housesitters, which operates in over 130 countries.

Click here to get 20% off an annual membership with Trusted Housesitters.

SYDNEY HOSTELS, HOTELS AND APARTMENTS

Browse through Sydney hotels, apartments and hostels using the search box below.

Here are a few of my recommended accommodation options in Sydney.

LUXURY – Park Hyatt Sydney . This 5-star luxury hotel is conveniently located in The Rocks , between Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Amenities include spa treatments, a rooftop swimming pool and a 24-hour gym.

MIDRANGE – The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel . Situated at Millers Point , this 3-star hotel is only a short stroll from Barangaroo restaurants and The Rocks at Circular Quay. The accommodation consists of beautiful, individually decorated rooms in a quirky heritage building with an onsite bar and restaurant.

BUDGET – Wake Up! Sydney Central , Sydney CBD . I stayed here years ago, when I did my working holiday. It’s a large, modern hostel with a bar and nightclub, so great if you want to party. It’s also right in the city and has dorm beds as well as private rooms.

BUDGET – Sydney Harbour YHA , The Rocks, Sydney . This amazing hostel has a rooftop terrace looking right out across Sydney Harbour! You can also walk to the city and all the sights like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. I’m a big fan of YHAs in general; the standards always seem to be pretty high compared to other hostels.

I hope you have an amazing time on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip! Happy travels!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!

Road Trip From Melbourne To Sydney

A road trip from Melbourne to Sydney is one of Australia's most fabled drives. Transporting you between Australia's two largest cities, you can choose to drive along the spectacular coastline of Victoria and New South Wales, or visit some of the country's most picturesque, significant and quaint towns during a stunning countryside journey.

These are just a few of must-see points along this unforgettable journey. With two main routes to choose from - and hundreds of sights and attractions at your disposal - you'll want to read on for our ultimate guide on where to go, where to stay and the best time to complete this world-famous trip.

How far is Sydney from Melbourne and how long will the road trip take?

A road trip from Melbourne to Sydney is one you can easily complete in a day. However as you have the opportunity to see so many interesting towns, and areas of outstanding natural beauty, you might want to take a couple of extra days to complete the journey.

The quickest and most direct way of driving between the two destinations is via the M31 route. This will take you through the heart of country Victoria and New South Wales and will provide you with a fascinating insight of what life is like away from the hurly-burly of city life.

If you would rather explore the coastline between both cities, driving the M1 and A1 route will give you plenty of opportunities to hit the beach. It will take you longer to complete this route than it would the M31, but you'll get to see some truly mesmerising stretches of shoreline and get the opportunity to ride some fantastic surf breaks as well.

Best road trip route from Melbourne to Sydney

Regardless of which route you take, however, you would be well advised to spread out your journey over the course of at least a couple of days. Doing so will afford you the time to check out some of the many fabulous towns and sights of interest along the way in more detail, which will, in turn, really enrich your journey.

Both of these routes are easy to navigate and also provide frequent opportunities to fill up your gas, take a restroom break, or get some food at any of the small rural or coastal towns you pass through.

The M31 Route

This route will take you most of the way from Melbourne to Sydney. Joining it from Melbourne, one of your first stops should be at the delightful foodie destination of Shepparton, which showcases an excellent range of hip cafes and restaurants that champion local produce.

You'll also pass the pleasant small towns of Wodonga and Albury, which lie on the scenic banks of the Murray River, and the Kosciuszko National Park, home to the breathtaking Snowy Mountains.

Wagga Wagga, which is also known as the ‘city of good sports' and Australia's first inland city, Goulburn, are other notable places you will course through en route to Sydney. As is the nation's capital of Canberra, which is somewhere else you should definitely consider visiting.

The M1 & A1 Route

This is a great route for those who love driving along the coast. From Melbourne you really should detour to Paynesville, which is the boating capital of the Gippsland region. There are lots of great vessels you can catch a ride on (or simply gaze at with envy from the shore!).

Continuing past the foot of Victoria, expect to see exceptional views of immense natural beauty at Cape Conran, the Snowy River National Park and the wonderful Croajingolong National Park.

You may also want to experience the bucket-list activity of whale watching at Eden, which is located on the spectacular southern coast of New South Wales.

Joining the M1, places like the Sussex Inlet, Jervis Bay, Shell Harbour and Wollongong, (which is the last main stop of interest before Sydney), offer a collection of sensational beaches to visit - all of which are perfect for activities like kayaking, surfing, fishing, swimming and jet-skiing.

Best places to stop between Melbourne to Sydney

As the drive from Melbourne to Sydney is quite long, you will definitely have to stopover for at least one night during your road trip. We'd recommend making two or more stops, however, to make the trip as comfortable as possible and get as most out of the itinerary.

Whichever route you opt to drive, there are a number of locations you can choose to stay at. Below are some of our favourites:

Enjoy the charms of Albury & Wodonga

Situated roughly halfway between Melbourne and Sydney, on the picturesque banks of the Murray River, Albury and Wodonga are splendid options for a pit stop if you are taking the M31 Route, inland.

Close to the Snowy Mountains and the Rutherglen Wine region, the Quality Resort Siesta is a fantastic option if luxury and pampering is on your agenda as you make the most of this beautiful area.

The rooms are spacious and well appointed, with two-room suites for those such as families who want group accommodation. Guests frequently describe the hotel as feeling "like an island resort". With its lush vegetation, indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, on-site restaurants and cocktail bar, it's easy to see why!

While it would be easy to spend the duration of your stay on-site at this resort, you will in fact only be 100 yards from local restaurants, cafes and shops.

Revel in the magnificence of Batemans Bay

Around 3 hours 40 minutes' drive from Sydney, Batemans Bay is a sensible option for a refreshing pit stop before you reach your destination (along the coastal M1 & A1 Route).

A relatively unspoilt natural haven, Batemans Bay is known for its fresh seafood and pristine beaches, so if you are looking for peace and tranquility before hitting the bustle of Sydney, this could be the place for you.

We'd recommend taking a day or two to explore the magnificent local wildlife, making sure you include an aquatic adventure on the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail. This amazing underwater paradise is said to contain rocks dating back 510 million years.

If staying on land is more your scene, grab your binoculars and observe over 100 species of native birds in their glorious natural habitat. And after all that fresh air and activity, we'd heartily recommend a stay at Lincoln Downs Resort, Batemans Bay BW Signature Collection. This luxury hotel is set alongside a picture-perfect private lake, making a great spot to relax at the end of the day.

Be dazzled by the brilliant white sand of Jervis Bay

All along the A1 route is long stretches of beautiful sand, the whitest shade of which can be found at Jervis Bay.

Closer to Sydney than Bateman's Bay, Jervis Bay lies just under 200km south of your destination, meaning you have an easy day of driving ahead of you if you choose this as your penultimate stop.

A beautiful area of lush native bushland, stunning azure waters and fabulous marine life, Jervis Bay is a stunning place to refresh and recharge before hitting the buzzing metropolis that is Sydney.

If you choose to drop anchor in Jervis Bay, then a stay at The Huskisson is a convenient and stylish hotel option. Located on the beachfront - 150 yards from Shark Net Beach - The Huskisson is a great base for a range of activities from hiking to cycling. Of course, you can always choose to decline any form of activity altogether. The hotel's bar, terrace and highly-rated restaurant all cater perfectly to the traveller eager to relax, unwind and enjoy the gorgeous view of Jervis Bay and its wildlife.

Things to see on a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney

There are plenty of places to visit during your road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. You won't necessarily be able to see them all on the one journey, but there are definitely some places you should prioritize a visit too. These include the following:

• Paynesville - Take to the stunning waters around the Gippsland region - Victoria's ‘boating capital'.
• Snowy River National Park - Spectacular National Park that features huge gorges, dense forest, gorgeous waterfalls and tranquil river views. A lovely spot for rafting, bush walking, canoeing, camping and four-wheel driving.
• Croajingolong National Park - Hike, kayak, canoe or boat through a captivating environment of prehistoric forests, enchanting inlets, huge sand dunes and varied wildlife within the remote coast of far-east Victoria.
• Kosciuszko National Park - Enjoy the wonders of the Snowy Mountains, where you can scale Australia's highest mountain, check out some intriguing caves, or go hiking, mountain biking, camping and do other snow pursuits.
• Canberra - Discover the delights of the nation's capital. Marvel at its impressive architecture, enjoy its fabulous restaurant scene and check out its world class museums.
• Goulburn - Visit Australia's first inland city, a charming place that offers fantastic recreational outdoor activities like caving, rock climbing and abseiling, as well as a number of terrific museums and art galleries.
• Eden - Experience the thrill of whale watching on the phenomenal southern coast of New South Wales.
• Bateman's Bay - Bordered by breathtaking national park, this superb coastal locations features idyllic aquamarine waters, stunning stretches of sand and a genteel ambience.
• Jervis Bay - Check out the incredible expanse of coastline that showcases the whitest sand in the world.
• Sussex Inlet - Comely seaside area which is a renowned spot for boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and a range of other water sports.
• Kiama - Quaint town best known for the incredible Kiama Blowhole. Situated deep within volcanic rocks, this cavern-like fissure regularly squalls rip-roaring ' blasts' of water.
• Shell Harbour - Dive, snorkel and surf exceptional waves at one of Australia's best and only National Surfing Reserves.
• Royal National Park - Tour around the second oldest national park in the world and experience the wonder of its rugged coastal cliffs, isolated beaches and lush eucalyptus bushland.

Best time to go on a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney

A road trip from Sydney to Melbourne is one you can do at any time of the year, although you may wish to avoid the height of summer (December to February) due to peak tourist volumes and prices.

During the summer months, and particularly in the school holidays and at weekends, you are likely to experience higher levels of traffic. Hotel rates are likely to be at a premium too and you can also expect longer queuing times at most of the major tourist attractions.

If you plan to drive the M1 and A1 route to see as much of the coastline as you can, then the best time to do this is between February and April, and September to November. This is the period outside of the storm and winter season when the beaches are usually at their best.

You might want to consider making the trip to Sydney during winter, however, as temperatures are still relatively mild (compared to the US and Europe) and there are a number of great events and festivals scheduled between May and August. Sydney Film Festival falls in June and the Australian International Music Festival takes place in July.

There is literally something for all tastes scattered across the year if you're taking a trip from Melbourne to Sydney - and the stunning scenery on this iconic trip is great at any time!

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Ultimate Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

Taking the Sydney to Melbourne drive is the best way to travel between two of Australia’s best east coast cities. It’s also one of the best road trips in Australia.

Why fly when you can drive through the most beautiful outdoor scenery and visit the best destinations that Victoria and New South Wales have to offer?

Road trip along the spectacular southeastern coastline, calling in at national parks and small towns along the way.

Start your journey after exploring all the best sights and beaches of Sydney and end your road trip in Melbourne’s cool cafes!

To inspire your next Aussie adventure, here’s our guide to planning a Sydney to Melbourne road trip!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Australia (Travel Guide)

Sydney to Melbourne Drive: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Table of Contents

How Long is a Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip?

Distances in Australia are pretty vast. This is a huge country, and it’s not quick driving between any major cities. Sydney to Melbourne is one of the faster routes you can drive along the east coast.

The quickest way to travel by road is just over 500 miles, but this cuts straight through the outback and makes for a monotonous road trip. If you’re in a hurry, you could drive this in a long day, though!

A better Sydney to Melbourne road trip will take you along the coast, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the region’s incredible natural and tourist attractions.

This is a longer route, covering around 700 miles. To really appreciate the stops, we’d recommend taking a week for the road trip, that way you’re never driving for more than a few hours a day.

Quick Info:

• Sydney to Melbourne: 1109 kilometers – 690 miles on A1 (coastal drive) or 878 kilometers – 546 miles on M31.
• How long is a Sydney to Melbourne road trip: 13 hours and 29 minutes on A1 or 8 h 54 min on M31.
• How many days should a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne take? Average Sydney to Melbourne road trip takes 4-7 days depending on your stops, You can drive it in one day without stopping.
• What is the halfway point between Sydney to Melbourne? Canberra, Australia

Best Stops Along the Sydney to Melbourne Drive

This road trip itinerary predominantly sticks to the coast, where the best attractions are. After leaving Sydney, though, you have the chance to visit Canberra, the nation’s capital.

However, this will add on a few extra miles as you’ll need to head inland, then back to the coast. 

While you’re road tripping, you’ll quickly realize that there are plenty more great stops you might want to visit, too, so it’s great to stay flexible on the way from Sydney to Melbourne!

Your journey begins in Sydney, one of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Before heading out on the road, take a few days to explore the city, especially if it’s your first time in Australia.

Sydney has so much to offer, with a bustling city center packed full of attractions waiting to be explored.

Visit the Sydney Opera House before taking on the adrenaline-inducing Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb for epic views over the harbor area.

Make sure you head out to the coast before you start your Sydney to Melbourne road trip. This is a city built by the ocean, and some of the country’s favorite beaches are just a short drive from the center.

Visit Bondi Beach if you’re into surfing and take a ferry across the harbor to Manly Beach to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Sydney area:

• Park Hyatt Sydney – Luxury
• The Mercantile Hotel – Midrange
• Sydney Harbour YHA – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Sydney:

• Ultimate Sydney Arrival Package
• The Rocks Walking Tour: the Original Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks
• Sydney by Night | The Original Luxury Private Night Tour | 3 Hours
• Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney Harbour – Lunch Cruise
• Sydney Opera House VIP Tour, Opera Ticket & Dinner Package

Blue Mountains

The first stop on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip should be a slight detour into the Blue Mountains.

This spectacular area of natural beauty is located just an hour away from the city, so you can always make this a day trip from Sydney before setting off south.

The Blue Mountains National Park is a spectacular place for hiking. Visit Katoomba, where you’ll be greeted by epic clifftop walks and unique rock formations, such as the Three Sisters.

There are small mountain towns, a scenic cable car ride, and plenty more outdoor sights!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Blue Mountains area:

• Lilianfels  – Luxury
• Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery – Midrange
• Metropole Katoomba Guesthouse – Budget

Top 5 things to do in the Blue Mountains:

• Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour (Without the Crowds)
• Blue Mountains Unique Small-Group Day Adventure with BBQ Lunch
• Blue Mountains Private Tour of Scenic World and Featherdale
• Canyoning at Stunning Empress Canyon
• Blue Mountains Hanging Rock Self-Guided Mountain Bike Tour

Take the highway south from Sydney, and your first stop on the road trip will be Jervis Bay . This beautiful seaside community is home to what the locals claim is one of Australia’s best beaches.

That’s a huge claim, but when you see the beach for the first time, you might just agree. Spend your day relaxing on the soft sands or get active and enjoy the snorkeling because the water here is crystal clear.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Jervis Bay area:

• Dolphin Sands – Luxury
• Dolphin Shores – Midrange
• Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Jervis Bay:

• Jervis Bay Whale Watching Cruise
• Jervis Bay Dolphin Watch Cruise
• Hiking The Castle in the spectacular Budawang Mountain Range
• Jervis Bay Passage Cruise
• Fishermans Paradise Eco-walk

Canberra (Detour)

From Jervis Bay, you can take a detour inland to visit the nation’s capital. It’s a two-hour drive away from the coast, but it’s worth spending a full day to explore Canberra’s museums.

The city is very underrated when it comes to tourism, and most travelers miss out on the capital.

Yes, it’s purpose-built, but Canberra is where you’ll find the country’s best museums, as well as the Australian parliament building.

You can take a guided tour of the parliament to learn more about Aussie history and politics!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Canberra area:

• Jamala Wildlife Lodge – Luxury (Amazing for wildlife lovers)
• Novotel Canberra – Midrange
• Canberra City YHA – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Canberra that you simply must do!

• Cockington Green Gardens General Entry Ticket
• Skip the Line: Telstra Tower Observation Deck Ticket
• The best of Canberra Walking Tour
• Twilight Animal Tour
• Batemans Bay Overnight Kayak Camping Tour from Canberra – All Inclusive

From Jervis Bay or Canberra, you now need to drive south, because your next stop is the aptly named town of Eden. This is the most southerly town in New South Wales, so after this, you’ll be driving into the state of Victoria.

Visit the local museum, where you can learn about the town’s whaling history, before heading to the beach to admire the spectacular coastline.

In the right season, you can join a whale-watching trip to see how the locals transitioned from whaling to whale watching!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Eden area:

• Coast Resort Merimbula – Luxury
• Seahorse Inn – Midrange
• Eden Gateway Holiday Park – Budget

Drive south into Victoria and make your way to Gippsland, where you can find the glorious Gippsland Lakes.

This coastal community is a popular holiday destination for Australians because the area is known for its delicious seafood and excellent wines.

Enjoy the lakes, take a boating trip, and enjoy the great food and great wine as you relax in Gippsland.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Gippsland area:

• Astra Lodge Falls Creek – Luxury
• Gebi’s Apartments – Midrange
• Riverview Caravan Park – Budget

Your next stop in Victoria needs to be Walhalla, an old gold mining town where you can learn more about Victoria’s gold mining history.

The town has just 20 residents but sees many more thousands of visitors each year. There’s some dramatic scenery nearby, including forests and gorges.

The town itself has been preserved much as it would have looked in the mid-1800s when it was founded during the gold rush era.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Walhalla area:

• Walhalla’s Star Hotel – Midrange
• Mountain Rivers Tourist Park – Rawson – Budget

Wilson’s Promontory

One of the best stops on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip is Wilson’s Promontory.

This small peninsula juts out from the mainland and offers exceptional views over the ocean and all along the windswept southern coastline.

The national park is home to some excellent beaches, but it’s the hiking that will draw you into this protected area, and keep you for longer than you were planning.

You can find some great campsites around the area to get closer to nature and to give you the chance to take as much time as you want to enjoy this beautiful part of Australia!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Wilson’s Promontory area:

• Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Retreat – Luxury
• Tidal River Cabins Wilsons Promontory – Midrange
• Prom Gate Getaway – Budget

Top tours that includes Wilson’s Promontory.

• Wilsons Promontory Day Trip from Melbourne
• 2-Day Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory Tour from Melbourne

Phillip Island

You’re almost in Melbourne, but you’ve got a few great stops left still. For nature lovers, a trip to Phillip Island is a must, because this small, rugged, windswept island is home to thousands of friendly penguins.

If you can stay until the evening, you’ll be able to witness the world-famous Penguin Parade, when the penguins return in vast numbers from the ocean where they’ve been fishing all day, to spend the night on Phillip Island.

Stay awhile and truly feel Phillip Island:

• The Castle – Villa by the Sea – Luxury
• Phillip Island Cottages – Midrange
• North Pier Hotel – Budget

Top recommended tours for visiting Phillip Island:

• Half Day Phillip Island and Penguins Tour from Phillip Island
• Private Tour: Phillip Island, Penguin Parade and Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park from Melbourne
• Phillip Island Helicopter Tour
• Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour
• Phillip Island Twilight Cruise

Before you head into Melbourne itself, take a stop at St Kilda, where you’ll find the city’s best beach and most happening community.

St Kilda is popular amongst backpackers and travelers, and you might end up staying a lot longer than you anticipated!

Enjoy the beach and the markets, or take a trip to Luna Park, Australia’s most famous amusement park. If you’re a backpacker, why not check into a hostel and have a night out in St Kilda too?

Stay awhile and truly feel the St Kilda area:

• Pan Pacific – Luxury
• Adara St Kilda – Budget
• St Kilda Hostel – Budget

Top recommended tours in St Kilda, Australia:

• Nightlife in Melbourne: St Kilda
• Kiteboarding Lessons
• Food Tour Melbourne – St Kilda
• Meet the Artists on a Art Wine Tour in St Kilda

After several hundred miles of driving, you’ve made it to the end of your Sydney to Melbourne road trip! Take a few days to enjoy Australia’s capital of coffee and all things cool.

Take a street art tour of Melbourne to see the city’s artistic side, before visiting Queen Victoria Market, the botanic gardens, and the Old Gaol Museum.

If you’ve still got a few days at the end of your road trip, you could consider extending the itinerary to drive the Great Ocean Road.

This starts just outside of Melbourne in Torquay, and it’s often named one of the best road trips in the world!

There are many awesome things to do in Melbourne , so be sure to plan in a few extra days on the end of your road trip to hit at least the highlights.

Top 3 places to stay in Melbourne:

• The Hotel Windsor – Luxury
• Milano Serviced Apartments – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Melbourne that you simply must do!

• Melbourne Complete Walking Tour
• Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Tours
• Premium Phillip Island Penguin Express Tour from Melbourne
• Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise
• Melbourne City Sights Kayak Tour

Add On the Great Ocean Road

If you have more time in Australia and have seen the best that Melbourne has to offer, consider adding the Great Ocean Road drive to your itinerary.

This is one of the most iconic and scenic drives in all of Oceania , so if you have the time you do not want to miss it.

Doing A Melbourne to Sydney Drive Instead

Alternatively, it is possible to reverse this whole route by taking a Melbourne to Sydney road trip instead.

This will depend on if you can find cheap flights to Melbourne or Sydney when you arrive. There really is no right or wrong way to make this drive, so plan it in the direction that suits your plans best.

Road Safety in Australia

In Australia, you need to drive on the left-hand side of the road, but there are a few other things you might need to get used to on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip.

Once you’re out of Sydney, you’ll start to encounter wildlife in rural areas. You might be itching to see a kangaroo, but you don’t want to meet them on the roads!

Kangaroos are a serious danger when you’re driving along the highway, so try to avoid driving at dawn or dusk and after dark. This is when kangaroos are found bounding across the roads.

For a Sydney to Melbourne road trip, you really don’t need a fancy four by four. Roads here are great, but do remember to get breakdown cover and insurance – you don’t want to be stuck miles from the nearest town!

Supplies and Accommodation between Sydney and Melbourne

Compared to other parts of Australia, where things are much more remote and rural, the great thing about a Sydney to Melbourne road trip is that you don’t need to plan too much.

There are always gas stations and supermarkets within easy reach.

As with anywhere in Australia, though, it’s good practice to keep your gas tank full and stash a few supplies, especially water, in the car.

You’ll find lots of accommodation along the route – from guesthouses and hotels in tourist destinations to campsites along the coast and in national parks.

A great way to explore the east coast is by campervan; you’ll find these are welcome in caravan parks and campsites all the way from Sydney to Melbourne!

More on Australia:

• 25 Top Things to Do in Australia (On Your First Visit!)
• 28 Great Things To Do in Queensland, Australia
• 11 Best Things to Do in Darwin, Australia
• 10 Spectacular Things to Do on Fraser Island
• Should I Rent a Jucy Campervan in Australia?
• Oceania Travel Guide

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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We did the Sydney to Brisbane trip a few years ago. This looks amazing! We’ll have to go back for this one.

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Driving Sydney to Melbourne: Coast & Inland Guide

Considering making the drive from Sydney to Melbourne? Wondering if you should take the coast road to Melbourne or the faster inland route? Today we answer all your questions about driving between Australia’s two biggest cities. Whether you are looking for the fastest or the most scenic from Sydney to Melbourne, we have you covered. Of course, turn the page upside down, and you have a Melbourne to Sydney itinerary ready to go 😉

Easy to follow itineraries for a Sydney to Melbourne drive

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This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here .

In peak season, when airline prices surge many people from Sydney drive to Melbourne and most discover it would make a pretty good multi stop road trip when they do. Whether you need a fast a-b route or you have time to meander along the way we have plenty of suggestions below along with detailed tables of travel distances and average times.

There are two major routes for a Sydney to Melbourne road trip:

• The Coast Road via the A1, also known as the Princes Highway and the famous Grand Pacific Drive
• The inland route via the M31, the Hume Highway.

Today we will answer the most common questions we have received in our Facebook Group to help you decide which route is best for you.

Frequently asked questions about driving from Sydney to Melbourne

How do you determine best? Is the best the fastest, most scenic, easiest drive? Only you can decide that, but we can help by showing you what you can see, do and eat on the road between these two capital cities to help you make your choice.

Along the coast road, the distance between Sydney and Melbourne is 1030kms or about 640 miles. Along the inland road, it is 880km or 550 miles.

You can do the drive in a day if you leave early and don’t mind the long drive. We think it’s best to have two drivers if you want to do a non-stop trip. The fastest route along the inland road with only a stop or two for coffee takes 10 hours.

You need to leave Sydney by 6am to make good time and not get stuck in peak hour traffic. We do not recommend trying to do the coastal route to Melbourne in one day.

The coastal route is infinitely more scenic; it takes an average of 13 hours. I would not recommend you attempt this in less than 2 days. Three or more is preferable. In the summer holiday season and on long weekends, the first section from Sydney to Jervis Bay can take an hour longer.

Can you, yes, the inland road can be covered in one long day. Should you do this drive in one day? No, not unless you start early and stop and rest at least two or three times or have two drivers.

You can do the inland road in one day – especially if you have two drivers. The coast road requires an overnight stop. Ideally, allow two days for the inland road and three days or more for the coast road.

Sure is, if you have enough time to stop and smell the roses. This road trip is worth devoting a week to there being so much beautiful landscape, gorgeous beaches and cute little towns to visit. If you are in a hurry, a one hour flight is often a better option than the nine-hour inland drive.

Where do you stop when driving from Sydney to Melbourne? Well, we have come up with two different itineraries and have listed suggested brief breaks and overnight stops and even a couple of detours en route.

Sydney to Melbourne drive via the coast road in 2-5 days

This Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive itinerary is a superb choice for nature lovers, with stunning national parks and plenty of chances to see Aussie animals in the wild. The road follows the coast at least half of the way as you head south. It goes inland for short periods, but it is still very scenic.

The trip is best enjoyed over 4-5 days, although you could do it in 3 at a push or easily spread it over a week or longer to make the most of the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. We do not recommend doing this if you only have two days.

Key highlights on the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne

• Sea Cliff Bridge
• Kiama and its famous Blow Hole
• Jervis Bay and its white-sand beaches
• Mollymook and Milton
• Marramarang
• Ben Boyd National Park
• Lakes Entrance

Stopping at Ulladulla, Murramarang, Eden, Lakes Entrance, La Trobe Valley, Raymond Island and Wilson’s Promontory. Choose the number of stops based on the time you have. With only two days, do not attempt Wilson’s Promontory. You need a 4-5 day trip for this.

This itinerary is a bit stop and start at the beginning, but these stops are short and very picturesque. Your camera will get a good workout.

To help us out creating this epic post, we asked a bunch of our travel writing friends to give us their favourite stops along the way , and we have included these below. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going.

Head out of Sydney and into the Royal National Park . If you are taking a week to make this trip, consider stopping off at Wattamolla for a swim. Next, follow the Grand Pacific Drive signs, which will lead you to Bald Hill lookout at Stanwell Tops. This is a popular hang gliding spot and a great place to get some photos of the coast and the famous bridge in the distance.

Just after Stanwell Tops, you will come to the Seacliff Bridge. The bridge is a result of regular rock falls damaging cars and causing road closures. There is a safe viewing area on the southern side of the bridge. Please wait until you reach this point to stop the car for photos.

Kiama makes a pleasant detour off the highway for a morning coffee. There is also the famous blowhole and lighthouse to discover. Photographers should check out Cathedral Rocks , especially if you arrive in the early morning light.

Stay on the coast road as far as Gerroa, so you can see Gerringong and the fabulous Sir Charles Kingsford Smith Lookout over Seven Mile Beach. We are regular visitors to this pretty seaside town and have shared our favourite things to do in Kiama here .

If you want to stop for the night in Kiama, it’s probably wise to book some accommodation before you arrive as it’s a popular town, particularly on weekends and holidays.

The next major stop along the highway is Jervis Bay. We are partial to this part of the coast; it’s relatively undiscovered by international travellers, a bit of a secret spot that locals want to keep to themselves. The beaches and accommodation are bustling during the school holidays, but you can find them relatively deserted at other times of the year. Check out our detailed guide to the area if you have time to stop off for a bit.

Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too have shared why they think you should make a stop in Ulladulla.

Where is it ? Just 3 hours 30 minutes from Sydney or 223.5 km is the coastal town of Ulladulla.

Why stop here ? Ulladulla is an Aboriginal name meaning ‘safe harbour’. It has been an important fishing port since 1857. The town is well-known for its restaurants and bars offering the best of its local cuisine and seafood.

Tip: One of our favourite restaurants for Brunch is Native , with views over the pretty harbour. It also has the best coffee in town.

One of the interesting things to do is to take a local walk around Warden Head Reserve. It is an easy bushwalk and is suitable for all levels of fitness. The lookouts scattered along the walkway offer breathtaking views out to the Pacific Ocean where you may witness the seasonal migration of whales and enjoy dolphin watching.

There is the aboriginal cultural walk known as the Coome Nujunga track where while you wander down the bush track you can enjoy local aboriginal paintings painted on tree branches and scenic views.

Tip: Free parking is available at the lighthouse.

Short stay or longer visit ? We would recommend staying overnight and enjoying many of the local cafes and a wander around the Harbour foreshore.

An alternate overnight stop is just a short drive away at Murramarang.

Josh Shephard, who blogs at The Lost Passport shares one of our favourite spots along this route, Murramarang.

Where is it? Murramarang National Park is located mid-way down the NSW South Coast, about 20 kilometres north of Batemans Bay, and 270 kilometres south of Sydney.

Why stop here? The area is scattered with beautiful small beaches to explore; Myrtle Beach, Cookies Beach, Deport Beach, Pebbly Beach, and Pretty Beach, among others. It’s an excellent place for swimming, fishing, or just lazing back on the beach in the summer. Some of these beaches are accessible by car, others only by walking track.

There are also walking tracks to locations other than beaches, such as the mangrove walk, the Durras Lake Trail, and the Depot Beach Rainforest Walk . One of the most impressive sights is waking up in the early morning to see a mob of kangaroos feeding on the grass right by the beach. You couldn’t find a spot which sums up travelling Australia any better!

A short visit or overnight? If you’re looking to stay somewhere a little secluded, then Murramarang is the perfect spot to stay a night on your way down the coast from Sydney to Melbourne. The Murramarang Holiday Park, surrounded by the national park, offers cabins and powered campsites right by the beach.

Tip: For those wanting to rough it, bush camping is also available at a few campsites in the national park itself, try the Pebbly Beach, Pretty Beach or Depot Beach campgrounds.

Wherever you decide to stay, Murramarung National Park should be on your list! Now we head into the Sapphire Coast and with a name like that you know it’s going to be very pretty

The South Coast of NSW is dairy country, as you may have already noted from the number of cows you have probably passed along the way. If you are partial to a bit of cheese, consider stopping in at the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre, which has a small cafe and shop. Sadly, you can no longer tour the cheese factory but supporting the area by stopping in a never a bad idea.

Jan Wild from Retiring not Shy! explains why a stop at Eden is always a good idea.

Where is it? Once you arrive on the far South Coast of NSW, you are entering Australia’s Coastal Wilderness. The last town on the East Coast of NSW is Eden, settled on the hillside overlooking the ocean and a beautiful harbour.

Why stop here? Eden is a great place to break your journey, and a terrific choice is Sprout Café in the main street – also a good spot to pick up some local preserves and other produce. Enjoy coffee and cake or a delicious lunch.

Historically, Eden was a whaling town, and besides the beaches and natural history, the top tourist attraction is the Eden Killer Whale Museum , which is well worth a visit.

After visiting the Museum, continue on down the road to the wharves. If you have the capacity to keep some food cold, you might like to see if the boats are in and selling mussels off their decks. I guarantee these will be the most delicious mussels you will ever eat.

Tip: Just up the hill from the wharves is the Eden Smokehouse, the award-winning purveyor of smoked seafood, including those delicious mussels in several flavours.

If the smokehouse is closed, the fish shop at the wharf also carries their produce.

A short visit or overnight? This is a great spot to break your journey if you have not done so already. If you are on a longer visit, then I would happily stay a while. Eden itself doesn’t offer many exciting overnight options, but just south of Eden at beautiful Twofold Bay, you will find the boutique SeaHorse Inn . This is a lovely spot for an overnight stay (or longer) and a good meal in the brasserie or their a la carte restaurant.

An alternate overnight stop is less than 30 minutes away.

Jan has also shared her love of Mallacoota

Where is it ? Leaving NSW and entering Victoria, the first settlement you will come to is Genoa. There are not a lot of facilities here, certainly no petrol or shops, just a pub. There is, however, a very popular free camping spot . But your best option is to turn left towards the township of Mallacoota. You will then enjoy 23km of narrow winding road, so sit back and breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty. Around halfway in there is a turn to the left to Gipsy Point. This is another beautiful spot, but again there are no shops or fuel available here. But keep driving to Mallacoota, a town of just 1,000 people year round that swells to 8,000 to 10,000 in the summer.

Why visit ? Mallacoota sits on the beautiful Mallacoota Inlet, and getting out on the water here is a truly delightful experience. Pop into the visitor information centre for advice on your options.

Mallacoota is blessed not just with the lake system but also with beautiful beaches, visit the Main Beach at Bastion Point but also take a drive out to walk on Betka Beach, Quarry Beach or Secret Beach. At many times in the year, you might just find that you are the only person on the beach.

An overnight stay or a longer visit ? Mallacoota is definitely worth an overnight stay if you enjoy the natural environment. There is less accommodation in Mallacoota than some of the other stops so sort this out before you decide. For breakfast, or lunch, try Croajingolong Café where Michelle serves the most innovative food in town as well as coffee, teas, smoothies etc. and of course, cakes.

Tina from Hangry by Nature , highlights an area we hope to spend more time in one day soon.

Where is it? A rough 3-hour drive east from Melbourne, Lakes Entrance is the region’s hub; home to breathtaking lakes, golden sand beaches, quaint little towns and breathtaking nature trails. 

Why stop here? Ocean, lakes and forests – Gippsland has got them all. Regardless of what type of holiday-goer you are, a trip to this stunning corner in Victoria when taking the coastal route from Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) will tick all the boxes.

Ninety Mile Beach is a must, and as the name implies, it’s a 90-mile long stretch of soft sand that separates Gippsland Lakes from the Bass Strait. The area is popular amongst families and outdoor lovers who come here to enjoy water sports, rent houseboats or simply bask in the beautiful nature that surrounds them.

Tip: Hop on a ferry and explore Gippsland Lakes

You can hike to the top of gorgeous waterfalls, go mountain biking on one of the countless scenic trails, or even descend into the Buchan Caves and gape at the hundreds of stalactites that line the ceiling of this age-old cave. A short visit or overnight ? The activities and natural sights to be found in this region are endless – I would recommend spending, at the very least, a couple of full days uncovering the beauty.

Our friend Mark who hails from Gippsland and runs a site Travels in Gippsland recommends a quick break to visit Raymond Island.

Where is it ? Raymond Island is best accessed from Bairnsdale off the Princes Highway. Follow the signs to Paynesville. You reach the island via a free 5-minute ferry ride from Paynesville across to the island. You can take your car or board as a foot passenger.

Why visit ? The sheer excitement when you spot your first Koala in the wild at Raymond Island is amazing. There they are just sitting in the tree sleeping or eating, not a fence around them, not a zookeeper in sight.

This is the experience that awaits you at Raymond Island Koala walk-in Gippsland. The Raymond Island Koala walk is one of the most popular attractions in Gippsland, and it’s free! The Koala walk is signposted, and you can also pick up a small guidebook for a gold coin donation. We recommend grabbing some food in Paynesville, catching the ferry, having some lunch in the park on the foreshore and then doing some Koala Hunting. The clearly marked trail is 1.3 km long. The Koalas can be hard to find as their fur mixes in with the colour of the gum trees.

Bec from Wyld Family Travel is keen for you to make a stop in the beautiful La Trobe Valley.

Where is it ? The Latrobe Valley  is located 150 kilometres east of Melbourne. It comprises the largest towns in Gippsland; Traralgon, Moe and Morwell. These are the key places in the region that attract visitors. Why visit ? For those looking for some retail therapy, Traralgon is the place, with a large retail precinct dominated by the Stockland Shopping Centre. For those wanting to stretch their legs, Victory Park is on the Princes Highway while the popular Gippsland Rail Trail bike path starts in Traralgon. A short 10 kilometres away along the highway is Morwell. In Morwell, you will find Lake Kernot home of the Gippsland Immigration Museum. The story of immigration to the Latrobe Valley is told as you walk around the lake. In Moe, Old Gippstown has been a favourite of the region for decades. This historic park brings the history of the area to life with twenty-seven original relocated buildings dating from the 1840s through to the 1930s, including a Cobb and Co Inn. You will also find an extensive collection of farm machinery, trucks and cars from all over Gippsland on display. A short visit or overnight? It depends on the time you have available and your interests. There is a bit of everything for everyone in the Latrobe Valley, but even a short visit is well rewarded.

So from here, you have an easy 150km drive into Melbourne city.

Have more time to spare? A detour to the Prom is perfect if you have time to spare.

If you have time, a couple of days in Wilsons Promontory is time well spent. If you can manage an extended visit, Neil has a rundown on the best walks in the area.

Overnight stops are marked with a star; squares are suggested rest stops or detours.

Two days from Sydney to Melbourne via the inland route

Highlights on the Inland drive between Sydney and Melbourne

• Mary Poppins Statue in Bowral
• Don Bradman Museum also in Bowral
• Canberra – detour
• Dog on the Tuckerbox
• Glenrowan – Home of Ned Kelly

Suggested stops – Bowral, Goulburn, Canberra, Gundagai, Wagga Wagga, Beechworth, Glenrowan.

Travel writer Christina Pfeiffer from Travel2next suggests your first stop out of Sydney should be in Goulburn.

The 15.2m high Big Merino marks the turnoff to Goulburn along the Hume Highway. The giant sheep is a symbol of Goulburn’s agricultural past and the city’s prominence as a significant centre for Merino wool growing.

Where is it? Goulburn is in the Southern Tablelands, 195 kilometres southwest from Sydney and 90km from Canberra. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney and a perfect place for a break when travelling along the Hume Highway to Melbourne.

Why stop here? As Australia’s first inland city, Goulburn has a rich history dating back to 1885, with many Victorian Italianate, Art déco and Edwardian-style buildings. Highlights include the Goulburn Courthouse, the Post Office, designed by well-known Colonial architect James Barnet, and two majestic churches with lovely stained-glass windows. St Saviour’s Anglican Cathedral is home to an 1884 Fosters & Andrew’s organ and an attraction not to be missed is the 1883 Appleby beam engine, which is housed in the Goulburn Historic Waterworks Museum by the banks of the Wollondilly River.

A short visit or overnight? It’s possible to explore a few of the main sights in two to three hours, but if you’re keen on Australian history, an overnight stay will allow more time to explore.

Tips? The Big Merino is not just for show. The gift shop inside the giant ram is an excellent place to shop for pure Merino clothing and other quality Australian souvenirs.

There are electric car charging stations at the Goulburn Visitor Information Centre at 201 Sloan Street.

If you are not on a time limit a detour via Canberra for a night is a great idea. Australia’s capital city is home to plenty of attractions, and most of them are free to visit. Highlights include Parliament House , The Australian War Memorial and The National Museum of Australia . Canberra is 2.5 hours from Sydney and 6.5 hours from Melbourne.

Related: Check out our recent road trip to Canberra for ideas

You can also take a trip to Gibraltar Falls from Canberra if you decide to stop in Canberra for a while.

Alivio Tourist Park Canberra is a great overnight stop if you need one.

Where is it? Along the road between Canberra and Wagga Wagga. Why stop here? Home to one of the most iconic statues in Australia, The Dog on the Tucker Box.

Luke from Culture Shock Adventure shares some more fantastic Aussie history with us

Where is it? Barellan is 1.5 hours northwest of Wagga Wagga; 2.5 hours north of Albury. It’s a small town with a country pub and a museum of local history run by amateur historians, all at volley distance from the oversized racquet.

Why stop here? If you like tennis and big things, you will have a grand slam in Barellan, west of Wagga Wagga. The “Big Tennis Racquet” is a tribute to Evonne Goolagong Cawley. Despite discriminative policies at the time, the Barellan townspeople let her play, paving the way for the first indigenous Australian to reach world number one in tennis.

The monument is an exact replica of her wooden racquet, except it’s twenty times bigger. It tells the story of an underdog in a time of racial discrimination. Becoming number one, she replaced another Australian, infamous for pro-apartheid views, so her title is extra special.

A short visit or overnight? You only need a few hours in Barellan, but I recommend spending a couple of days in the Riverina region.

Each town in the Riverina has its own charm and specialty:

• There’s Cootamundra, home of cricket legend Don Bradman and the “Captains Walk”;
• Junee’s liquorice factory at Junee holds the world record for the longest piece of liquorice (now eaten, RIP);
• Temora hosts regular vintage warplane air shows.
• Wagga Wagga is home to Wawi, a Dreamtime spirit living in the Wollundry Lagoon; the excellent Thirsty Crow brewery; and the famous Chiko Roll.

With lots of local legends, great tastes and cool tales, it’s definitely worth the backspin through Barellan and the Riverina region.

Ok, so we are now leaving New South Wales and heading into Victoria.

Why stop here: History lovers will enjoy a stop at Glenrowan to learn more about Ned Kellys final siege. The visitor’s centre is home to Ned Kelly’s Last Stand, a 40-minute show featuring computerised robots that is not quite high tech, but it is interesting and breaks up the drive.

Audrey, who runs the website See Geelong , highlights why Beechworth is a worthy stop.

We visited Beechworth on a weekend getaway from our hometown  Geelong . But it makes an excellent stopover for those on a road trip travelling the Hume Hwy between Melbourne and Sydney.

Where is it ? Nestled in the Victorian High Country, Beechworth is a fascinating town steeped in Australian history.

Why stop here? In Beechworth, you’ll find wide tree-lined boulevards, shady century-old verandah-covered footpaths, and gorgeous historic buildings.

This is “Kelly Country” making Beechworth the perfect stop for anyone interested in Australian history and folklore. Travellers can visit the courthouse where Australia’s infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his mother were tried. Or take a tour of the gaol where Ned, his mother, and Kelly sympathisers were imprisoned. Other interesting buildings include the 1850s Telegraph Station, the Chinese Burning Towers, and the “Lunatic Asylum” (Yep, that’s what it’s called) that will send chills down your spine.

A short visit or overnight? Gorgeous national parks surround the town with bush-covered ranges, magical waterfalls, rivers and streams, and tranquil rural farmlands. There are loads of opportunities to explore the tracks and back roads either on a guided tour or through independent exploration. We recommend staying for a night or two to explore the whole area fully. Tip : Whether you stay overnight or not, you cannot pass through without stopping for a pie and cake at the famous Beechworth Bakery . Known throughout the state, this delightful bakery has an old-world charm, traditional recipes, and country hospitality. Treat yourself to the best vanilla slice ever! 

Now you are on the home stretch to Melbourne where all the excitement of Australia’s second-biggest city awaits.

Driving Safety tips

Fatigue – Fatigue is one of the biggest killers of drivers on outback roads. Don’t underestimate how tiring driving long distances can be. Particularly if you are driving on the opposite side of the road that you are used to. In busy periods, Driver Reviver areas, which provide free coffee and snacks, are set up along both routes. Check this map for the best places to pull over and rest. Speed – Speed cameras and radars are set up along these routes are the spots where the speed you are driving is likely to get away from you. Be extra careful during holiday periods where fines and demerit points are doubled. Wildlife – Driving at dusk and dawn brings its own dangers. Kangaroos often run into the traffic at these times of the day. Also, be extra vigilant in areas known for kangaroos, on these drives anywhere south of Ulladulla along the coast route or Canberra on the inland road. If one runs in your path slow down but don’t swerve, while the roo can do serious damage to your car, moving to the wrong side of the road can do much more.

• Check out our guide to driving the Pacific Coast Road from Sydney to Brisbane
• Or for a shorter trip, perhaps a drive to the Blue Mountains

First published 1/12/2020 Updated 2/7/24

Paula Morgan

3 thoughts on “driving sydney to melbourne: coast & inland guide”.

Your coastal drive map is wrong – it is the inland map. We have done Melbourne to Sydney along the coast and reading this has reminded me of some of the things we did. Thank you.

Thanks Lyn – the map shows both routes, you just need to click on the top left of the map and you can switch the views. Sorry for the confusion.

I’ve driven the Great Ocean Road a long, long time ago but would love to do more. Hopefully one day to Melbourne to Sydney too!

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Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary | 2024 Road Trip Guide

Connecting two of Australia’s biggest cities, a Sydney to Melbourne road trip is an amazing way to  journey the far south coast . While many opt for the shorter inland route on Hume Highway through Canberra, a coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne is  well worth the extra kilometres .  

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Lined by turquoise waters and charming seaside towns,  the Princes Highway rivals the beauty and diversity of Great Ocean Road . But despite being far lesser-known, it is loaded with hidden gems that are sure to make for a memorable road trip. This coastal route spans over  1,000 km of white sand beaches, untouched wilderness, and even penguins!

We recently travelled from Sydney to Melbourne along the   Coastal Discovery Drive  and would easily put this trip on our list of the   best road trips in Australia ! It’s an amazing way to get from Sydney to Melbourne—or vice versa—without the need to fly.

Even if you only have a few days to get from Sydney to Melbourne by car, these coastal highlights are surely worth a stop. This  Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary is best enjoyed over 2 weeks  but can be adjusted to suit any schedule.

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Sydney to Melbourne Drive: Suggested Road Trip Stops 

With so many unique places to explore, you’ll have no shortage of great stopovers on your drive. So, if you’re wondering where to stop on a Sydney to Melbourne itinerary, here’s how to make the most of your inland road trip.

Sydney – 3-4 Days

Visiting Sydney is a given on many Australian trips, whether internationally or within the country. Its bustling food scene and an endless list of city ongoings make it a vibrant destination for travellers from all walks of life. The city is jam-packed with beaches, art galleries, and restaurants  that put Sydney on the map as a top travel destination in Australia.

Things To Do In Sydney

• For day 1, go for a  3-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour  for a panoramic view of the city.   This dinner cruise  includes a 3-course meal of delicious local fare to enjoy at sunset. 
• Alternatively, you can enjoy a lavish 8-course meal amid lush greenery at   Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens  for your day 1 activity. Marvel at the vibrant foliage while indulging in some of the city’s finest cuisine.
• Hop into a see-through kayak  and explore the crystal clear waters of the Pacific on a  Kayak Hire . Glide through  Manly Cove  and go for a snorkel or lay back on the boat-in-only beaches. 
• Visit Sydney’s main attractions like Sydney Harbour and Bondi Beach on this  Highlights of Sydney Half-Day City Tour . It takes the guesswork out of planning – ideal for those on a tight schedule. 
• Join the  2.5-hour guided Pub tour  to sip on drinks at four historic pubs in The Rocks Sydney and relish the wild tales and colourful characters that figured in it.

READ NEXT: Best Day Trips From Sydney

Where To Stay In Sydney

Sydney hosts thousands of hotels, hostels, and stunning vacation rentals. If you’re new to navigating the city, our   guide to Sydney neighbourhoods  is a great place to start. Here are  a few of our top picks for hotels in Sydney: 

• Sir Stamford Hotel :  This luxury 5-star hotel is the perfect launch point to Sydney Harbour. There are plenty of enjoyable activities for both kids and adults, such as water sports, a swimming pool, and biking. It’s close to the heart of the action in downtown Sydney and boasts a Gold Level status as a TripAdvisor GreenLeader.
• Crystalbrook Albion : Located within a heritage building, this hotel offers a blend of heritage and modern details. The hotel is very eco-friendly, using tech to cut down on paper and plastics and teaming up with groups like TerraCycle, OzHarvest, and Containers for Change for sustainability.
• Sydney Harbour YHA : A sustainable, budget hostel in the historic The Rocks district. It is solar-powered, with an open-plan design for sustainability. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for amazing Sydney views.

Jervis Bay – 2-3 Days

Sydney to Jervis Bay: 198 km // 2 hours 40 minutes 

With the metropolitan views of Sydney in your rear window, head south to Jervis Bay for gorgeous waterfront scenery. Jervis Bay is a popular destination for  whale watching, scuba diving,  and  bushwalking . The area is home to  white-sand beaches  and crystal clear waters that play host to dolphins and whales. 

The drive from Sydney to Jervis encompasses one of the region’s most popular road trips and passes by the magnificent  Royal National Park.

To take in some amazing coastal landscapes, consider hopping on the  Grand Pacific Drive,  which is a 140 km stretch spanning from the Royal National Park to Shoalhaven. 

Enjoy the sweeping ocean views while driving through farmland, coastal towns, and national parks. This stretch of sun-soaked highway is sure to be a highlight on your Sydney to Melbourne drive. 

Stops on a Sydney to Jervis Bay Road Trip 

• Take in Views at Bald Hill Lookout:  Pack a picnic and enjoy the sweeping views over the hills and rugged coastline. This is a popular spot for hang gliders that overlooks the Sea Cliff Bridge. 
• Drive the Sea Cliff Bridge:  This winding bridge is iconic to New South Wales. The bridge is perched above the rocky cliffs of the NSW south coast and offers incredible views of birds, sea life, and surrounding national parks!
• Feel the Mist of the Kiama Blowhole:  Stop in the charming seaside town of Kiama to feel the mist of a blowhole formed by lava flows. With the right conditions, the blowhole can shoot 25 metres in the air!
• Visit Wollongong:  Just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney, Wollongong is a dynamic city full of activities. Scope out the surfing beaches and rock pools that line the coast road while hang-gliders launch from Bald Hill.
• Walk the Blue Mile Pathway:  Stroll on this much-loved 500m path in the heart of Wollongong. Take in coastal views while walking, cycling, and dining along the way.
• Get your adrenaline pumping with a   15,000 ft Skydive over Wollongong . This thrilling adventure promises some of the best views of the city and coastline. 
• Surf at Werri Beach:  Consistent surf breaks are the norm as waves crawl across the headlands. Werri Beach is a great place to spend a day with some fish and chips from the local fish shop. 

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

• Snorkel in the protected waters of Plantation Point:  This beautifully secluded point in Vincentia is the perfect foray into the marine world of the Bay. With its crystal clear waters, the visibility for seeing colourful fish and vegetation is spectacular. 
• Sink your toes in the sand at Hyams Beach:  Hyams Beach has some of the whitest sand in Australia. This is a popular stop on the Princes Highway journey, so be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds. 
• Enjoy a morning cruise on the Bay:  The area is no stranger to bottlenose dolphins and other marine life. A  boat cruise  is a perfect way to enjoy the sparkling waters and admire dolphins. Between May and November, you can even spot humpback whales on a   whale-watching cruise .

Where To Stay In Jervis Bay

• Paperbark Camp :  This peaceful bush retreat is the peak of glamping. It is less than 30 minutes away from Huskisson and offers access to a walking track, canoes, and kayak hire. Paperbark Camp has received an Advanced Eco Accreditation from Ecotourism Australia and implements many sustainable practices.
• Worrowing Jervis Bay :  A luxurious eco-resort, Worrowing sits on a stunning coastal farm. It offers self-contained accommodations minutes from the sandy beaches and nature reserves.
• Harbourview Serviced Apartments are conveniently located within walking distance to cafes and restaurants in the coastal town of Ulladulla.

South Coast, NSW – 2-4 Days

Jervis Bay to Eden: 313km // 4 hours 

The South Coast of New South Wales, encompassing the regions of   Eurobodalla  and   Sapphire Coast , boasts crystal clear blue waters and offers plenty of attractions.

The journey from Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay in Eurobodalla takes only 1.5 hours, or 4 hours, if you plan on making your way all the way down the coast to Eden. But you could easily spend much longer than that exploring all of the unique places that dot this coastline.

The area is known for its  oysters, whale watching,  and  the Aussie favourite Bega Cheese Factory.  It’s a beautiful part of any coastal drive from Melbourne to Sydney (or vice versa).

Things To Do In Eurobodalla

• Get a taste for the local fare at Cupitt’s Estate:  Spend an afternoon sharing a glass of local wine, beer, and cheese on this beautiful farm estate.
• Visit Ulladulla:  This coastal town is all about seafood and marvelling at the sea. A popular spot for diving, Ulladulla is a laid-back town that’s perfect for a lunch stop or a journey into the water.
• Walk alongside Kangaroos at Pebbly Beach:  Located within Murramarang National Park, Pebbly Beach is known for its resident kangaroos. If getting a photo of a kangaroo is high on the bucket list for your Melbourne to Sydney roadtrip, this is the place to do it!
• Explore Batemans Bay:  Known for its oysters and snorkelling, Batemans Bay is an underrated NSW destination. There are a few things to do in this small town. 
• Eat Clyde River Oysters at the Wray Street Oyster Shed : It doesn’t get any fresher than eating oysters picked right from the banks of the Clyde River.
• Take a Kayak Tour through Clyde River National Park:  Kayak through North Batemans Bay and eat fresh oysters along the way!
• Take a scenic flight:  Fly above the water in a seaplane over the NSW south coast for an aerial view of the beaches and waterways.
• Enjoy a picnic at Holmes Lookout:  Take in a scenic view over the Clyde River and the Pacific Ocean with a hillside picnic.
• Take in views from Observation Point Lookout:  Located just an hour south of Batehaven, this lookout point is another great picnic spot with fantastic views.
• Soak in Yuin Culture in Narooma:  Narooma is a stunning area surrounded by clear blue waters and ancient rock formations — which is how it gets its name. It is set in a traditional Yuin country with rich South Eastern Aboriginal roots. Here,   Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness offers services for travellers to get acquainted with the history and culture of the region. 
• Check out Bar Rock  at the Bar Rock Lookout.
• Walk the Mill Bay Boardwalk:  Walk past mangroves and keep an eye out for schools of fish and stingrays in the water.
• Snorkel with friendly seals at Montague Island:  Montague Island is home to a colony of fur seals, thousands of penguins, and almost 100 bird species. It’s a popular destination for diving and snorkelling just off the coast of Narooma.
• Visit historic Tilba:  Set in the lush green hills of the NSW countryside, Tilba is a beautiful escape with rich heritage. Central Tilba is a unique period village set against the backdrop of Mount Gulaga. Visit the famous  ABC Cheese Factory  to explore the cheesemaking process and enjoy some local dairy from Tilba Jersey cows.

Things to Do Along The Sapphire Coast

• Stop in Bermagui:  Bermagui is known for its amazing sport fishing and water sports on Wallaga Lake . Check the visitor information centre for info on seasonal fishing and the best places to drop a line.
• Check out Horse Head Rock and Camel Rock, which are some of the oldest rocks in NSW. Distinctly shaped like animals, these massive rocks near Wallaga Lake are a must-see on any drive to Sydney from Melbourne. 
• Eat Fish and Chips at Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf:  Indulge in the freshest seafood caught daily right off the Bermagui coast. Watch out for the seagulls! 
• Swim in the Blue Pool:  The Blue Pool is one of the coolest highlights and an iconic landmark in Australia. Its name describes it perfectly: a natural ocean rock pool filled with crystal clear blue water. It’s an amazing place for a dip in the summer! 
• Picnic at the Michael Lerner Lookout:  This lookout point offers spectacular views of the coast and makes for a scenic road trip lunch stop.
• Stop at  Mimosa Rocks National Park  and wander through the castle-like rock formations. 
• Whale Watch in Tathra:  In the Spring, the Tathra Wharf offers a prime spot to watch the whale migration with excellent diving/snorkelling opportunities. 
• Admire Kianinny Bay at the Chamberlain Lookout: The sheltered blue waters at Kianinny Bay are some of the best places to swim along the Sapphire Coast.
• Go on a Magical Oyster Tour with Captain Sponge:  Learn about oysters and the farming process behind the unique tide-to-table flavour. These oysters thrive in the nutrient-rich waters where two rivers meet; it’s obviously what makes a Sydney Rock Oyster tastes so good!
• Swim in the Blue Pool:  The Blue Pool is one of the coolest highlights of the Sapphire Coast and an iconic landmark in Australia. Its name describes it perfectly: a natural ocean rock pool filled with crystal clear blue water. It’s an amazing place for a dip in the summer!
• Stop at  Mimosa Rocks National Park and wander through the castle-like rock formations.
• Admire Kianinny Bay at the Chamberlain Lookout: The sheltered blue waters at Kianinny Bay are some of the best places to swim along the Coast.
• Explore the Waters of Merimbula:  Named after an Aboriginal word for “two lakes,” Merimbula is surrounded by calm, clear waters. The Lions Park Lookout is a lovely spot to pull over and stretch your legs or have a picnic while overlooking Lions Beach. You can also venture South to Eden for sweeping views over Twofold Bay to Ben Boyd National Park from the Eden Park Lookout.

Where To Stay Along The South Coast, NSW

• Tilba Lake House :  Stay in a luxe “pod” or hilltop glamping tent with views over the Pacific Ocean and Tilba Lake. Nestled among mountains, lakes, and the ocean, Tilba Lake House is all about sleeping under the stars in luxury. These unique escapes are the perfect way to unwind after a long day on the road. 
• Sails Luxury Apartments:  Stay in the luxurious family vacation rentals on the South Coast with a range of outdoor amenities and beautiful lake views. This property features a heated outdoor swimming pool and a BBQ area. The location is perfect for easy walks to the main beach for surfing and dining at local restaurants. 
• Kianinny Bush Cottages :  Five minutes from the whales in Tathra is 100 acres of native bushland, where Kianinny Bush Cottages offer solar-powered cabins. Set on a private lake, the grounds offer an endless list of activities for enjoying the Sapphire Coast sustainably.

Gipsy Point/Mallacoota – 1 Day

Sapphire Coast (Eden) to Gipsy Point: 71 km // 1 hour 

The state line from NSW into Victoria runs just an hour’s drive south from Eden in Sapphire Coast. The first Victoria stop on your Sydney-Melbourne road trip should be at  Gipsy Point . This  lovely riverside area  sits at the top of the Mallacoota Inlet in the  Gippsland Lakes region.  

A little further down the road, Mallacoota town serves as a launch point to sandy beaches, calm waterways, and Australian wilderness. It feels far, far away from the urban cities of Sydney and Melbourne, and makes for a  relaxing detour on a coastal road trip

Things To Do In Gipsy Point/Mallacoota 

• Visit Croajingolong National Park:  Considered a  UNESCO   World Biosphere Reserve , this park is a nature lover’s dream. It offers a pristine stretch of coast where the mountain valleys meet the lush rainforest. Some of the park trails worth exploring here are: the  Genoa Peak Walk ,  Point Hicks Lightstation Walk , and  Thurra River Dunes Walk.
• Walk the Mallacoota Coastal Walk:  With heaps of formal and informal bush walking tracks in Mallacoota, there are lots to choose from. The   Betka Beach Loop  is a short walk that winds through the rainforest along creeks and boasts sweeping views of the coast. 
• Have a picnic at Sandy Point:  The Sandy Point picnic area is a great place to eat lunch and get up close and personal with wildlife. Kangaroos are known to frequent the golf course here, while koalas can be spotted hanging out (literally) at dusk.
• Walk along Quarry Beach:  Surrounded by jagged headlands, Quarry Beach is a 1km stretch of ancient-looking rocks. It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and surfing.

Where To Stay In Gipsy Point/Mallacoota 

• Gipsy Point Lodge : This tranquil riverside retreat with river and garden view rooms and self-contained cottages was our choice of accommodation in Gipsy Point. There is an onsite restaurant and bar serving up delicious local cuisine ranging from oysters to fresh salads.
• The lodge is surrounded by  Croajingolong National Park and gives guests direct access to enjoy the extensive Mallacoota Inlet and local rivers. You can hire a canoe or kayak and spend a day exploring the inlet or opt to do some busk walking, biking, swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing in the Lodge.
• Farm Stay at 32 Zachary Drive : This  homestay in East Gippsland  is suitable for big groups, fishing trips, or romantic weekend getaways. It’s set on 30 acres of beautiful bushland with wide open fields, offering those  iconic Mallacoota sea views . This hotel is located within  walking distance from the city centre .

Lakes Entrance – 2-3 Days

Gipsy Point to Lakes Entrance: 188 km // 2 hours 10 minutes 

Detour off the main highway to soak in the seaside charm of Lakes Entrance. Known as the  seafood capital of Victoria , this quaint coastal town is surrounded by inland waterways and abundant wildlife. The area is a popular holiday destination for locals from the Great Melbourne Area and is a worthy stop to explore the  Gippsland Lakes  

Things To Do In Lakes Entrance 

• SUP with Venture Out Australia :
  Paddling through the sparkling waters of the Gippsland Lakes is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or seals.
• Go on a Bike Ride:  The area is full of mountain biking trails that range from smooth pathways to jump-filled trails. You can also hire a bike to journey down to nearby towns like Metung or Nowa Nowa.
• Dine at   Sodafish :  Enjoy the freshest seafood the region has to offer with wild-caught sustainable fish, oysters, and shellfish. We recommend their 7-course Chef’s Selection Set Meal.
• Explore the Waterways:  Hire a boat or kayak or catch a cruise to explore the coastal villages and waterways.
• Stroll along the Metung Boardwalk:  This picturesque  5 km boardwalk  follows a narrow stretch of land within the lakes. It’s a great place for a walk or cycle and is a local favourite to watch the sunset.
• Soak in the sun at Ninety Mile Beach:  This pristine stretch of sandy beach is a Victoria, Australia gem. It spans—you guessed it—90 miles (145 km) and is a popular swimming and wildlife viewing destination.
• Visit Raymond Island:  Hop on the ferry to Raymond Island for some of the best koala-spotting around. The ferry is free and takes 5 minutes to arrive at this one of the best wildlife havens.
• Visit Wineries:  Check out the East Gippsland Drink Trail to discover some of the region’s best wineries and cellar doors.

Where To Stay In Lakes Entrance

Waverley House Cottages :  After a long day on the road, these woodland cottages offer an ideal retreat. Surrounded by 8 acres of private gardens, Waverley House Cottages share the magic of the region without the crowds of town. 

With a solar-heated pool and hydrotherapy spa, the Waverley House Cottages have perfect accommodations, no matter whether you are travelling with a big family or as a couple.

Walhalla – 1-2 Days

Lakes Entrance to Walhalla: 197 km // 2.5 hours

Head inland from the coast to historic Walhalla to see what was once  one of Australia’s richest gold rush towns . Now, the sleepy town feels like a relic of the past. Home to only 20 year-round residents, Walhalla is a popular escape from the city and is particularly famous for the beautiful fall foliage between April and May. 

Upon discovering a  3 km vein of gold  called Cohen’s Reef, Walhalla became a mecca for gold seekers and miners during the gold rush era. It is tucked in a valley along the mountains of Victoria and serves as a  time capsule of the 19th-century gold rush. 

WORTHY STOP:  Be sure to take the backroads from Lakes Entrances to Walhalla through the sprawling farming country and stop for a fabulous lunch in the town of Tinamba at the Tinamba Hotel. 

Things To Do In Walhalla

• Tour the Town:  Explore the picturesque buildings that line the historic streets.
• Go on an Underground Mine Tour:  Venture into the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine to access Cohen’s Reef and explore the town’s gold mining heritage.
• Ride the Scenic Railway:   The Walhalla Goldfields Railway  runs 3 days a week through the Stringers Creek Gorge. Stopping at Thomson Station, the route winds through beautiful trees and scenic mountain views. 
• Day trip to Baw Baw National Park: If you love the outdoors and are looking for an adventure, you can explore this fragrant eucalyptus wonderland by walking or snowshoeing along the many trails through snowgum forests. You might encounter local wildlife and vibrant wildflowers along the way!

Where To Stay In Walhalla

Walhalla’s Star Hotel :  Enjoy country dining and a cozy overnight stay at Walhalla’s Star Hotel, a boutique mountain retreat. The grounds are all about preserving the original gold-era facade and disconnecting from modern technology. They have a restaurant on-site serving up great local fare, and no stay here is complete without meeting their dog, Tilly!

Wilsons Promontory – 2-3 Days

Walhalla to Wilsons Promontory: 210 km // 2 hours 50 minutes

A stop at Wilsons Promontory might seem out of the way, but this  glorious journey through the temperate rainforest  of Australia is pretty special. Head through Traralgon to  Tarra Bulga National Park  for a refreshing stroll through the lush surroundings of greenery and ferns.

You can then ogle at the  colourful murals of Yarram , which dot the town’s walls. The murals, dubbed Heescotown, display the vibrant farm history and culture that the region is known for. Be sure to check out all   12 murals  as you cruise through town. 

After veering toward the  southernmost tip of mainland Australia , you’ll arrive at what locals lovingly call  “The Prom.”  Wilsons Promontory is a  spectacular nature park  surrounded by native bush and stunning beaches. 

The Prom holds a special place in many Australians’ hearts, and we can definitely see why. The  unspoiled nature  is the perfect backdrop for snorkelling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Things to Do in Wilsons Promontory

• Visit Wilsons Promontory National Park:  Filled with a labyrinth of walking trails, The Prom is a magical destination for nature lovers. You could easily spend a week taking in everything from the fern gullies to the quartz sand of Squeaky Beach.
• For a  day tour ,  pack a flask of hot tea and catch the  sunrise from the summit of Mt. Oberon.  If you have 3 to 4 days to spare, embark on the  Southern Circuit Walk  for a magical venture through dunes, swamps, and hidden coves.
• Go on a Wildlife Watching Cruise:  This   2.5-hour wilderness cruise  will take you through the gorgeous granite-studded coast of The Prom. Ride in the world’s largest custom-built amphibious boat and keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins.

Where To Stay In Wilsons Promontory

• Tidal River Cabins:  These  self-contained cabins  are located in the heart of the national park, just steps from Norman Beach. Set in the bush, you can overlook the stunning surroundings while you eat dinner on the timber deck.
• Wilderness Retreats at Wilsons Promontory National Park:  Cozy into  insect-proof tents  perched above some of the best beaches, islands, and forests in Victoria.

Phillip Island – 2-3 Days

Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island: 134 km // 2 hours

Located just about 1-hour drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a seaside oasis of pristine beaches and rugged nature . A popular vacation spot for Melbournians looking to escape the city, it hosts some of the country’s most iconic sights. 

Koalas  hanging from trees,  surfers  catching waves, and even  penguins  waddling on the beach at dusk. Much like Wilsons Promontory, a Phillip Island detour seems like an easily skippable stop. While it is out of the way, it was  one of the highlights of our trip from Sydney to Melbourne!  It is bursting at the seams with fun activities with plenty of options for sensational local produce.

Things To Do On Phillip Island

• Dine at The Cape Kitchen:  Pair panoramic views of the Southern Ocean with an incredible locally sourced menu of dishes. Their set lunch is worth the splurge!
• Don’t miss the Red Rock Beach and Forrest Caves:  Red Rock Beach is covered in rich red rocks with impressive rock pools to explore. At low tide, discover sea caves in the cliffs at the Forrest Caves near Surfside.
• Hike Cape Woolamai:  Hike your way up to the highest point on the Island for sweeping views over the cape and surrounding ocean. There are a few different trails at Cape Woolamai, ranging from an easy 30-minute walk to a 2-3 hours 8 km loop. 
• Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve:  See koalas in their natural habitat while strolling across treetop boardwalks in natural bushland. It’s a great spot to get close to wild koalas and learn more about their life and habitat. 
• Visit Nobbies Centre:  Learn all about the animals and nature of the Island with dynamic displays at this ecotourism centre. Stroll the boardwalk at sunset for spectacular ocean views!
• Watch the   Penguin Parade   at Phillip Island Nature Park:  Head to Summerland Beach at dusk to watch the little penguins waddle their way down the shore to their burrows. The nightly show offers an unmissable opportunity to get up close to the World’s smallest penguins!
• Have lunch at the  Outback Chef’s Wild Food Farm :  Pick up a jar of preserves or grab a bite at this uniquely Australian bush food shop and café and don’t miss an opportunity to tour the grounds for a chance to learn more about Australia’s traditional plants and ways that the team at the Outback Chef has been incorporating them into their cuisine. Their Australian-grown tea sold at the shop is a perfect souvenir to take home with you. Try the Black Tea with Strawberry Gum  blend! 
• Sip wine at the Purple Hen Winery:  Sip on crisp, cool climate wines at this family-owned winery  surrounded by farmland and beautiful views of the bay. 
• Shop at The Store:  Pick up locally sourced gourmet staples like coffee beans and cheeses while browsing handmade footwear and gluten-free delights. 
• Enjoy a family-friendly cruise:  Get on the  Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise  to discover the Island’s hidden gem. Look out for dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds on this catamaran tour. You might even see the daily pelican feeding.

Where To Stay On Phillip Island

Oak Tree Lodge :  Relax and unwind at this luxurious coastal escape set in a picturesque English garden. Located in Rhyll, this lodge is located within walking distance to a local winery with easy access to the Koala Conservation Reserve. The lodge is self-contained and offers everything you need for a cozy and comfortable stay. Its beautiful farmhouse decor had us in awe!

READ NEXT:  Things To Do In Phillip Island, Victoria

Melbourne – 3-5 Days

Phillip Island to Melbourne: 141 km // 2 hours

And the final stop on your Melbourne coastal drive! Deemed  Australia’s cultural capital , Melbourne is buzzing with  unique restaurants, hip laneways, and rich history . You could easily spend weeks uncovering everything Melbourne has to offer, but here are a few things to check out while driving from Sydney to Melbourne.

Things To Do In Melbourne

• Go on a River Cruise :  See the highlights of the city from a different perspective on this 2-hour  cruise up and down the Yarra River . Enjoy a quick way to see all the must-visit places in Melbourne. The cruise passes by the iconic city landmarks, bustling ports, and serene river gardens.
• Explore the colourful Laneways :  Wander through vibrant streets dotted with boutiques, markets, vintage shops, and cafés. Learn about Melbourne’s history, exploring its  architecture, street art, and vibrant culture . Make quick stops at quirky cafes to savour the city’s unique charm.
• Tour the city by Bike :  Discover the diverse villages and landmarks that the city is known for while riding the  Melbourne Bayside Cycling Trail , a great way to explore St Kilda and Brighton on a beautiful day. Here you’ll find local neighbourhoods, enjoy scenic beachfronts, and see iconic landmarks. Don’t miss the  sustainable Rain Man Fountain , powered by solar energy and recycled water.
• Discover culinary gems on a Foodie Tour :  Melbourne is known as a culinary centre when it comes to tourism in Australia. Sample some of the best bites in the city with these local favourite spots. Sip the famous coffee, try some of the delectable dumplings and sweet treats, and cap it all off with a local-favourite bar drink.

READ NEXT:  8 Best Melbourne Weekend Getaways

Where To Stay In Melbourne

Melbourne is home to lots of unique and eco-friendly accommodations. Check out our guide to Melbourne neighbourhoods and hotels for more of our favourite spots.

• Alto Hotel : Settle into the best of both worlds at this apartment-style boutique hotel in the heart of the city. It’s in the heart of the CBD and runs off of 100% renewable energy. 
• Clarion Suites Gateway : Set on the banks of the Yarra River, this AAA Tourism Eco-Friendly Star Accredited Hotel is a great base to explore the city. Their sustainable practices are complemented by modern rooms and an onsite bar and café.
• Selina St Kilda : A good hostel for a short stay, close to shops, tram stops, and the beach. It has a wonderful community vibe, modern rooms, and an eco-friendly approach. It also has an onsite bar and café. It is a great, affordable option for your Melbourne stay.

Sydney To Melbourne Road Trip Time & Distance

How far is the route from sydney to melbourne.

The quickest way from Sydney to Melbourne is to drive along the Hume Highway (M31) for 874 km. It may be the quickest way to get to Melbourne from Sydney, but it’s not nearly as fun as the route we’ve shared above.

Total Driving Distance For Road Trip From Sydney To Melbourne (And Vice Versa)

Our Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive was  1,502 km in total distance . If you’re tight on time, you can skip some detours and still do the Sydney to Melbourne coastal trip in just over 1,000 km. If hugging the coast isn’t a priority, you can save about 600 km and do the inland route, also known as Hume Highway. 

How Many Days To Drive From Sydney To Melbourne? 

If you prioritize speed over experiences, the drive from Sydney to Melbourne can take around 8-9 hours one way, with no stops–but where’s the fun in that? For the full coastal route experience filled with unique stopovers, you should allow 2 weeks for a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne.

Of course, you can skip some Sydney to Melbourne road trip stops and do it in a few days if you’re working with a shorter time frame. 

The same goes for a coastal Melbourne to Sydney drive. The drive is a bit longer, but the stops, breathtaking seaside views, seafood, and charming towns along the way make it totally worth it.

It is  possible to do the drive in just 4-5 days , but prepare to make some tough decisions on what to skip and where to stop along the way!

Looking for other itineraries for your Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive? Check out the   Sydney to Melbourne Touring  for additional info about potential stops along the way and the best driving route from Sydney. 

Total Sydney To Melbourne Driving Time

Despite the long driving distance from Sydney to Melbourne, in total, we only spent  about 19.5 hours on the road  driving to Melbourne from Sydney. 

Where Should I Stop on a Sydney to Melbourne Drive? 

There are so many cities and spots to stop by on a Sydney to Melbourne drive, which is what makes the experience worth it! Our itinerary takes you through Sydney, Jarvis Bay, South Coast, New South Wales, Gipsy Point/Mallacoota, Lakes Entrance, Walhalla, Wilsons Promontory, Phillip Island, and finally, Melbourne. 

Plus, if you’re driving an RV or want to add camping to your road trip, there are many campsites to choose from in Mallacoota, Croajingolong National Park, Lakes Entrance, and Philip Islands, too! The best part is, that this itinerary is adjustable so you can prioritize stops that match your interests or make the most sense given the length of your trip. 

Have You Ever Taken A Road Trip To Melbourne From Sydney? What Were Some Of Your Must-See Stops?

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

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SIXT Magazine Australia

Travel Tips & News from SIXT Rent a Car

Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip Itinerary

Melbourne To Sydney Road Trip

Whether you’re looking for an alternative to flying or are just looking to embrace some of the best views and vibes Australia has to offer, you won’t do better than the Melbourne to Sydney road trip! 

Picture this: starting your morning with a scenic hike and ending your day watching the sunset from a boat on a clear water bay. No two days behind the wheel need be the same, and this itinerary will take you where you need to go to embrace nature’s best. 

This is what you can expect when travelling along and around the south eastern tip of mainland Australia, on the drive from Melbourne to Sydney. Follow this itinerary for an epic (and iconic) road trip.

How long is the road trip from Melbourne to Sydney?

If you’re driving up the Hume Highway, you can expect to get from point to point in 8 – 9 hours without a stop. But if you’re doing a Melbourne to Sydney road trip following this itinerary, the driving time will be around 12 – 13 hours. How much you break that up – and how long you spend at each stop is up to you. 

Most of the day trips on this list are an hour or so away from Melbourne’s CBD, with Phillip Island the farthest at 140 kms. If you’re hitting the road on the weekend, traffic can be congested coming out of the city but should ease as you make your way towards the highways. Leave early, and you’ll definitely be rewarded; plus there’ll no doubt be a great brunch place where you’re going.

Is the drive from Melbourne to Sydney worth it?

In this itinerary, we have called out stops where you could spend a little longer, but if you had all the time in the world, you still wouldn’t get bored taking the scenic drive from Melbourne to Sydney. 

It’s an incredible part of mainland Australia, where you can literally go from snow to surf in the same day. It’s full of hidden gems as it isn’t as well known or well trodden as the likes of the Great Ocean Road. 

Highlights to look forwards to are: 

• Wilson’s Promontory – Put your hiking boots on early in the morning and be rewarded with a Mount Oberon sunrise.
• Peninsula hot springs – Relax and unwind in the natural geothermal mineral pools
• Lakes Entrance – Learn to paddleboard on calm lake water and end your day with a stroll along the sand.
• The Penguin Parade – Head to Phillip Island in the summer to witness a magical showcase of wildlife
• Merimbula – Spot whales in the wild and then share your stories over burgers and beers.
• Narooma – Snorkel with seals on Montague Island and capture amazing photos of the emerald water.
• Jervis Bay – Take a morning dip in the crystal blue sea of Hyams Beach before heading to Berry for a famous hot donut.

Packing for your Melbourne to Sydney road trip 

If you’re planning on a hike, pack a change of clothes so you can reward yourself with a visit to a winery or cafe afterwards. For those heading towards the coast or hot springs, a towel and some thongs are a good idea to get you to and from the water. We also highly recommend taking an empty esky or reusable shopping bag to carry all the local goodies you’re going to want to bring home with you.

Make sure to pack a few swimsuits, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and a picnic blanket for impromptu stops when the scenery demands it. 

Ready, set, drive! 

Now that we’ve got all the basics out of the way, you’re almost ready to hit the road. The great news is this road trip itinerary allows you to soak up some of the best nature Australia has to offer without having to head down any dirt roads or rough terrain.

Throughout Victoria, you’ll be cruising along the South Gippsland Highway before switching to the Princes Highway in New South Wales between towns. Both are smooth and well-maintained roads, so your choice of vehicle can be left to your personal preference.

A real highlight of this trip is the scenery you’ll spot simply by looking out the window. From the huge granite mountains of Wilson’s Promontory to the sparkling waters of the Sapphire Coast, nature lovers will find a new slice of paradise at every slowdown and turn.

Ready to start? Let’s go…

Day 1: Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory

238 kilometres

3 hours 49 minutes 

*based on leaving from Melbourne 

Before embarking on your Melbourne to Sydney road trip,  you first must consider if you’ve experienced the best of the area you’re moving on from. 

Mornington Peninsula is a little hard to reach from the city, without the use of a car. It’s an hour and 20 minutes drive from the CBD, but if you’re hiring a car in Melbourne , it’s absolutely no problem and entirely worth the drive! 

Start your morning early to escape the busy traffic, the nearest SIXT location is in Frankston , but if you’re staying in the city, you can always pick up a hire car in Melbourne itself. Alternatively, SIXT has branches at Tullamarine and Avalon airports .

Head first to The Boyz 4 Breakie in Mornington to fuel up for the day. Then down the road a further 20 minutes to Arthurs Seat base station. Take the aerial gondola, or the eagle, up to the highest point on the peninsula. The views over Port Phillip and towards the city are sensational from the treetops. Once you’ve soaked up enough of the views, head over to Flinders Blowhole for a gawk and be dazzled by sparkling water.

It will have been a busy and bustling start to your Melbourne to Sydney road trip, so you should complete your time on the peninsula at the Peninsula Hot Springs for a soak in geothermal waters. If you have plenty of time on your hands, you might want to consider a spa treatment and a stop over right here. 

If you’re keen to be on the move, get back on the road and head to “The Prom”, a must visit in Victoria. This is the southernmost point of Australia and is the pinnacle of everything you will see on this drive from Melbourne to Sydney; forest, beach, granite mountains and rock formations. 

If you have followed our itinerary, it’s likely to be mid afternoon. Stop off on your way in to pick up some supplies in Meeniyan, so you don’t get stuck if the shops are closed when you arrive. Tidal River is the main area (and a completely natural playground) where you’ll find plenty of camping and accommodation options, as well as easy access to some of the best spots in the park.

Because The Prom is the southern tip of Australia, you can choose between sunrise or sunset. If you’re an outdoor lover, we recommend you indulge in both. This evening, head to Whisky Bay. It’s a 10 minute drive from the Tidal River, where surrounding islands are silhouetted with a golden glow as the sun reaches the ends of the earth.

Day 2: Wilsons Promontory to Lakes Entrance 

275 kilometres 

3 hours 30 minutes 

Depending on the time of year, gear up for another early start and catch sunrise at the top of Mount Oberon. From up there, you’ll have a vantage over most of the Prom. It can be steep in parts, but most people seem to manage the 6.8km return hike, with chairs placed for rest (or a coffee) along the way. The path is a wide-graded road for the most part. 

When it’s time to leave The Prom, ease your sadness by stopping in Sale for a bite to eat or go via Agnes Falls to see the tallest waterfall in Gippsland.

It’s just over 275 kilometres from Tidal River to Lakes Entrance, your next stop. The drive should take around 3.5 hours, but enjoy and go at your own pace. It’s the joy of driving from Melbourne to Sydney. 

Once you arrive at Lakes Entrance, you can relax after a busy and early morning, or you can take your pick of water activities; head out on a boat to explore marine life with the locals, or rent your own kayak or stand-up paddleboard and slowly cruise into all the different bays yourself.

Lakes Entrance can be quite a tourist attraction in summer, so if you prefer the quiet life, you could also stay in the neighbouring town of Metung for some tranquillity. From there, you’ll still have access to boating and fishing activities, as well as plenty of scenic walks to choose from.

Whatever you do, this area is known as the Seafood Capital, with so much to choose from vast waterways, calm surface lakes and so much more. You must absolutely try the fresh seafood shops whilst you’re in town. Wild Catch Fish & Chips is a crowd favourite, but you can hardly go wrong in this coastal town. Better yet, catch your own dinner and cook it straight from the sea on a campsite BBQ.

Day 3: Lakes Entrance to Merimbula 

267 kilometres

3 hours 10 minutes 

The next leg of your journey will bring you even closer to the ocean, away from the calmer lakes as you head further East. If you’re taking things slow, it’s very easy to find a beach to pitch and surf for the day. 

Halfway along your journey, you will find the pinnacles loop walking track. This a rugged and stunning stretch, with incredible, rich rock faces that contrast with the coastal path you can walk along. It’s a fantastic spot for photographers, nature lovers and travellers of all kinds. It’s only a 20 to 40 minute walk, but you’ll remember it forever. 

Continue on your journey to Merimbula. If you’re taking your Melbourne to Sydney road trip in the months of September to the end of November, you’re in luck. Merimbula is a whale watching hotspot due to their natural, deep bays. It is well worth a night or two to stop and make the itinerary work, just to fit this in.

If you’re travelling outside of spring, you can still venture out onto the water whilst in Merimbula or Eden to spot playful pods of dolphins. 

Another fantastic thing to do when you arrive in Merimbula is to take a stroll along the Merimbula Boardwalk, which hugs the shores of the lake and winds through mangrove forests and eucalyptus canopies. It’s a 3.4km return trip and takes about an hour and a half to complete if you’re walking leisurely.

Whether you stop for a night or a week, you absolutely have to make Dulcie’s Cottage a priority on your hit-list also. Head to this local-favourite for burgers, beers and good times in their delightful garden. There are plenty of locally sourced ingredients on the menu, and on some nights, there’s live music to enjoy. With the shortest drive of the trip coming up next, you can afford to stay out a little later.

Day 4: Merimbula to Narooma 

113 kilometres

1 hour 30 minutes 

At this point, you’re half way through your road trip from Melbourne to Sydney – well, in terms of distance travelled anyway. You will have crossed the border into New South Wales, just after Maramingo Creek on the last stretch of the road trip. 

This is a much shorter leg of the trip  and if you’re in a hurry, you can treat this part of the drive as a stop off rather than a dedicated leg. The drive from Merimbula is stunning on all sides. You’ll traverse the Princes Highway with snippets of coastal views on your right, and incredible, dramatic mountains on your left. 

You’ll pass through quaint small towns on your way to Narooma. Head straight to the waterfront for a gawk at the unbelievable Australia Rock – an eroded section of headland with an Australian-shaped hole in its middle. You won’t believe it’s all completely natural, especially when you’re standing in front of it and see the detail and the similarities. 

Continue on your walk along the rocks as you’re very very likely to come across a colony of seals bathing in the sun, frolicking in the water or calling out to one another. 

If you’re keen to be on the move, grab a pastry from abc bakery and rejoin the Princes Highway. If you’re stopping a while, why not witness those seals and the rest of this infamous part of coastline on a boat tour. 

Day 5: Narooma to Jervis Bay

189 kilometres 

2 hours 41 minutes

Just as you start to think the coastline on this trip couldn’t get any better or bluer, Jervis Bay appears on the horizon. Located in the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast, Jervis Bay is home to the whitest sand beaches in the world.

Be dazzled by the sparkling aqua blue waters of the famous Hyams Beach before comparing it with other local favourites such as Murrays Beach and Blenheim Beach. The beauty of having a car is you can flit between them to find your perfect stretch of sand.

We highly recommend early starts when in this region, particularly on the weekends before the Sydney crowd arrives. 5 Little Pigs in Huskisson has one of the best breakfast menus in the area, and the coffee is well worth sacrificing a sleep-in for.

The day is yours to do with as you please: venture out around Beecroft Peninsula to look back at the white sands of the bay or, if you’re not yet tired of the water, head out on a Dolphin watching adventure. Jervis bay is renowned for being one of the best places to spot various pods in the wild. 

Day 6: Completing your drive to Sydney

193 kilometres

2 hours 47 minutes 

It’s the final leg of the road trip from Melbourne to Sydney, setting off from Jervis Bay.  

Once you’re plenty salt and sun-soaked, there are some incredible pit stops to make on the final leg of the drive to Sydney. Don’t miss ducking into the charming town of Berry to pick up any local gifts and grab yourself a hot donut from the famous Berry Donut Van (make sure to eat it while it’s still warm). What a fantastic breakfast! 

And if the timing is right, book yourself a table for lunch at The Scarborough Hotel. This buzzy pub is perched on a cliff edge with incredible views. 

However, the most important part of this final drive is to make sure you’re taking the Sea Cliff Bridge, just north of Clifton on the coastal road. This is an incredible stretch to drive; make your final pit stop at the top of the hill to look back over the jutting out bridge and the beautiful, blue water. If you’re arriving around sunset, you’ll be treated to beautiful colours in the sky and some fish and chips if you fancy. 

It’s then just an hour (with light to moderate traffic) into the heart of Sydney’s CBD, where there is just too much to do to list all in one place. Alternatively, if you’re still craving more nature – head into the Sydney Royal National Park through to Maianbar. Check into cottages or the camp ground for a couple of nights to spend the rest of your week exploring waterfalls, swimming, climbing and trekking through this infamous park. 

You’ve completed your Melbourne to Sydney road trip.

It will have been an incredible drive and a wonderful experience. Nature is such a huge part of this drive and really what makes it so special. That’s why it’s so imperative you have your own vehicle and drive from Melbourne to Sydney or vice versa. 

Of course, you can return your rental car in Sydney or start the itinerary from this destination and do the road trip the other way around, from north to south. It’s easy to find a branch with a car you like the look of in Sydney, or just make your life so much easier and pick up a hire car from Sydney airport . 

Why not make this drive even more special and hire an electric car for the journey?

• All Sixt Australia Locations

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip – Coastal Drive with Itinerary and Cost

Normally, the route from Sydney to Melbourne is about 800 Kms. But, the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip along the coast stretches for about 1147 Kms. The road trip begins near from Sydney Harbour Bridge and takes you on an incredible coastal drive ending in Melbourne. During the road trip, you’ll cross national parks, seashores, beautiful towns, amazing landscapes, and much more. So, pack your bags and turn on the car engine for this Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip between two big cities of Australia .

Some Quick Facts about the Trip:

• Cost of the Road Trip by Car
• Cost of the Road Trip by Bike
• Best Time for the Road Trip
• Places to Visit on Route

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

• Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay
• Day 2: Jervis Bay to Eden
• Day 3: Eden to Melbourne
• Day 4 and 5: Exploring Melbourne
• Day 6: Back to Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions

Cost of sydney to melbourne road trip.

For a common understanding, we’ve taken Sydney Harbour Bridge as the starting point of this trip. Our cost estimations for the Sydney to Melbourne trip will include fuel, hotel, food, and tourist destinations fee. So, you’ll be getting a quite clear idea of trip cost. Also, as mentioned above, all the prices indicated in this guide are in US$s.

Cost of Trip by Car:

• Fuel (Petrol) – On the average of 14 kilometres per litre, the car will be consuming 164 Liters of fuel (Sydney >> Melbourne >> Sydney) which will cost you $147.
• Food – Food will cost you about $50 per day for four people. So, the approximate cost of food will be $300 maximum.
• Accommodation – You’ll easily get a decent hotel stay at $60-$100 per night, So the cost of the stay will be approximately $320 to $400. Also, we’ll be mentioning hotels in the itinerary of each day.
• Miscellaneous – For other expenses like tickets, toll taxes, repairs, etc., you can count $150 extra.
• Total – Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip by Car will cost you approximately $917 for four people .

Cost of Trip by Bike:

• Fuel – On the average of 25 kilometres per litre, the bike will be consuming 95 Liters of fuel (Sydney >> Melbourne >> Sydney) which will cost you $86.
• Food – Food will cost you about $30 per day for two people. So, the approximate cost of food will be $180 maximum.
• Accommodation – You’ll easily get a decent hotel stay at $60-$100 per night, So the cost of stays will be approximately $320 to $400. Also, we’ll be mentioning best hotels to stay in the itinerary of each day.
• Miscellaneous – For other expenses like tickets, toll taxes, repairs, etc., you can count $100 extra.
• Total – Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip by bike will cost you approximately about $686 for two people .

Best time for Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip

How much you enjoy on a trip very much depends on the weather conditions. Pleasant weather can make your trip where hot weather can ruin it. So, it is crucial to ensure that the weather must be good during the trip. The best weather for traveling on Sydney to Melbourne route will be from October to Mid February . From October to Mid February, you’ll find sunny weather, which will be suitable for traveling.

Places to Visit on the Road Trip

There are plenty of places that you can visit and experience on your Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip. Swimming in the Jervis Bay, sight whales in Eden, hiking in Wilsons Promontory National Park, sight seals, penguin, and koalas and a lot more. So, let’s hop on and see what those places are lying on your route. The list of these places will help you sort the places you want to visit and what you don’t. We’ve prepared Itinerary of Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip just after this section, so you’ll find all these places mentioned in the itinerary.

• Royal National Park, Sir Bertram Stevens Dr
• Figure 8 Pools, Lilyvale
• Garawarra State Conservation Area, Helensburg
• Old Helensburg Station, Helensburg
• Otford Lookout, Otford
• Bald Hill Lookout, Lawrence Hargrave Dr
• Stanwell Park Beach Reserve, Stenwell Park
• Coalcliff Beach, Clifton
• Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton
• Thirroul Beach Reserve, Thirroul
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse, Wollongong
• Cudgeree Islands, Lake Illawarra
• Killalea Reserve, Shell Cove
• Jamberoo Action Park, Jamberoo (A bit away from Coast)
• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, Knights Hill (A bit away from Coast)
• Budderoo National Park, Budderoo (A bit away from Coast)
• Seven Mile Beach National Park, Gerroa
• Shoalhaven Zoo and National Park, North Nowra
• Jervis Bay Marine Park, North Nowra
• Boodeere National Park, Jervis Bay
• Meroo National Park, Woodburn
• Mogo Zoo, Mogo
• Eurobodalla National Park, Potato Point
• Horse Head Rock, Wallaga Lake
• Eden Killer Whale Museum, Eden
• Ben Boyd National Park, Edrom
• Genoa Falls, Genoa
• Croajingolong National Park, Wingan River
• McKenzie River Rainforest Walk, Club Terrace VIC
• Stony Creek Trestle Bridge, Nowa Nowa (Not so Interesting Place, Abandoned Railway Bridge built of wood)
• Jemmys Point Lookout, Kalimna
• Long Jetty Port, Welshpool
• Kilcunda – Harmens Haven Coastal Reserve
• Phillip Island National Park
• Yarra River, Melbourne
• Filnders Street Railway Station, Melbourne
• Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne
• Federation Square, Melbourne
• Royal Botanic Gardens Victorial, Melbourne
• Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne
• National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
• Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne
• Melbourne Museum, Melbourne
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Museum
• Puffing Billy Railway
• Luna Park Melbourne
• Crowne Melbourne
• Royal Exhibition Building
• Healesvilee Sanctuary
• Werribee Open Range Zoo
• Fitzroy Gardens
• Port Phillip Bay
• Dandenong Ranges National Park
• Brighton Beach
• Arthurs Seat Eagle
• Cape Schanck Lighthouse

With so many places to visit on the route, you will have fantastic travel experience on this trip. The starting point of this Australian Coastal Road Trip will be Sydney Harbour Bridge. We have tried putting the maximum information we could. We hope this Itinerary will be perfect for your road trip plan or will help you with planning a new plan by yourself.

Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay (265 Kms)

Start your ride at about 7 in the morning. The nearest place we’ll be visiting on day one will be Royal National Park as it has many cliffs, beaches, and bushlands. Royal National Park is just about 35 Kms ahead of Sydney. Our first stop will be Figure 8 Pools in Lilyvale, which is a part of Royal National Park. Just a 58 Km (1 hour) drive will get you here.

Figure 8 pools are located on a dangerous rock platform. Visiting Figure 8 pools is only advised during low-tide. If you are thinking of diving in pools, then be very careful, and it’ll be better to avoid swimming in here. There have been multiple reports of death in Figure 8 pools. So, be very careful if you are diving in here.

After Figure 8 Pools, the next stop is Garawarra State Conservation Area which is about 28 Kms from Figure 8 Pools. On our way to Garawarra State Conservation area, we’ll be visiting two lookouts, first being Otford Lookout and second being Bald Cliff Lookout.

Otford lookout is about 16 Kms from 8 Figure Pools. You can take a quick break here looking at the fantastic view of the ocean. Just 2.3 Kms ahead of Otford lookout, you’ll arrive at Bald Hill Lookout . Both the places offer almost similar views, so consider stopping at one as per your choice. Garawarra State Conservation Are is located 9 Kms ahead of Bald Hill lookout. It is a peaceful spot for spending some hours or for a picnic trip and experience waterfalls. People also come to visit Garawarra State Conservation Area for mountain biking and horse riding.

Old Helensburgh Station is situated just close to Garawarra State Conservation Area. So, just a 2 km ride will get you there. It used to be a railway station, now famous as a tourist spot due to its haunting history and glow worm tunnel. Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel was closed in 1915, and now it is quite famous for photography.

Within the next 6 Kms, there are two interesting places. First is Symbio Wildlife park and second is Sri Venkateswara Temple . At Symbio Wildlife Park you can have a really refreshing time with funny koalas and cute kangaroos along with many other lovely species of animals.

Sri Venkateswara Temple is among the most famous Hindu temples in Australia. It is built at the elevation of 400 fee above the sea level. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. You’ll get to see various gods and goddesses along with proper experience of traditional Indian structures.

If you have any plan of visiting a beach, then you can take a break at Coalcliff Beach which is just a few kms away from Bald Hill Lookout. Barely a 5 minutes drive will get you at Sea Cliff Bridge Viewpoint that is quite popular as a viewpoint spot for travellers.

The next place in our list of Day 1 of Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip is Thirroul Beach Reserve . It is a park located on the Thirroul beach. We only recommend visiting here just in case you are looking for a break. Otherwise, you better continue your ride towards our next stop, which is Wollongong Head Lighthouse . Drive for about 15 Kms on Memorial Dr/B65, and you’ll arrive at Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse in about 20 minutes.

Wollongong Head Lighthouse is also known as Flagstaff Hill or Flagstaff Point Lighthouse. It is an active lighthouse that overlooks the Tasman Sea. 25 Kms ahead of Wollongong, you’ll reach Killalea Reserve which is a perfect place for a full day outing. It has is reserved as a public recreation are for surfing, fishing, picnics, bushwalking, and camping. If you want to experience Killalea, then take out a full day and spend it here at Killalea Reserve.

Day 1 is about to end, and we have only two places among which one site is optional for a visit. After visiting remaining spots, we’ll be checking in to the hotel in Jervis Bay and spending the night there. Seven Mile Beach National Park is 35 Kms ahead of Killalea Reserve. It offers a full-day outing experience pretty similar to Killalea Reserve. Our last place for the Day 1 is Shoalhaven Zoo and National Park . We would suggest you visit Shoalhgaven Zoo and National Park instead of Symbio Wildlife Park if you want to experience a complete zoo. So, consider one among the two we mentioned.

Food Places between Sydney and Jervis Bay

• Cafe Diem , 1/114 Parkes St, Helensburgh
• Raya Thai Helensburgh , 4/115-119 Parkes St, Helensburgh
• Altitude 1148 , Southern Gateway Centre, Princes Hwy, Bulli Tops
• Thirroul Beach Pavillion , 23 Cliff Parade, Thirroul
• The Scarborough Hotel , 383 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Scarborough
• The Fraternity Club , 11 Bourke St, Fairy Meadow
• Club Windang , 2-6 Judbooley Parade, Windang
• McDonald’s Warrila , Shellharbour Rd, Warilla
• Berry Donut Van , 73 Queen St, Berry
• KFC , LOT22 Princes Hwy, South Nowra

Fuel Stations between Sydney and Jervis Bay

• Metro Petroleum, Wollongong
• Caltex Kiama, Kiama
• Mobil, Bomaderry
• The Cuddy, Jervis Bay

Best Hotels in Jervis Bay

Golf View Motel

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $65 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Microwave, Heating, and more.

Sussex Shores

Ratings : 8.5/10 Price : US $62 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, and more.

Huskisson Beach Resort

Ratings : 7.9/10 Price : US $68 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, and more.

Day 2: Jervis Bay to Eden (391 Kms)

Start Day 2 early in the morning at about 5 AM. Visit Jervis Bay Marine Park to experience refreshing and breezy weather on the beach. Jervis Bay Marine Park is quite famous for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Spending some early morning hours walking on the white sand will be a memorable experience. Get back to the hotel and have breakfast and check-out as we are heading to continue our road trip for Day 2.

Our first stop for the day will be Booderee National Park which is about 13 kms ahead of Jervis Bay Marine Park via Naval College Road. Both Boodeere National Park and Meroo National Park offers you a clear view of Ocean. If you wish, you can ignore these two places or spend a few minutes here as these places don’t provide anything extraordinary to experience.

Located 53 Kms ahead of Meroo National Park, Mogo Zoo is a small privately-owned Zoo. You can spot many endangered and exotic species of animals at Mogo Zoo. Also, if you love eating meat, then this place has a variety of meat to offer, and you’ll be liking the meal here. Australian Coastal route has many national parks lying on the way. One of the national parks on coastal drive route is Eurobodalla National Park which his about 52 Kms ahead of Mogo Zoo. Eurobodalla National Park is a beautiful place for a full-day picnic. People visit Eurobodalla National Park for a picnic, camping, fishing, boating, and surfing.

Drive for another 50 kms from Eurobodalla National Park, and you’ll arrive at Horse Head Rock in Wallaga Lake. As you can see in the image, this places has a rock that resembles the shape of the head of a horse. Take a break here and spend a few minutes the continue your drive towards Eden Killer Whale Museum in Eden which is about 115 Kms away from Horse Head Rock.

Once you have explored all the places we mentioned for Day 2, we’ll be heading to the hotel for a night and taking the required rest. Next day we’ll be continuing our Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip.

Food Places between Jervis Bay and Eden

• Leonie’s Little Tree Cafe, 38 Tierney Rd, Yatte Yattah
• Pilgrims, The Settlement, Shop 8/9, 97 Princes Hwy, Milton
• Carlo’s Italian Ristorante Bar & Seafood, 18 Wason St, Ulladulla
• Innes Boatshed, 1 Clyde St, Batemans Bay
• Uncle Joe’s Cafe, 23 Village Centre Perry Street, Batemans Bay
• Na SiamThai Restaurant, 1/26 Princes Hwy, Narooma
• Beach Break, 2/65 Andy Poole Dr, Tathra
• Fat Tony’s Bar & Grill, 15 Bega St, Tathra
• McDonald’s Merimbula, 15 Bega St, Tathra
• Wharfside Cafe, Snug Cove, 3/253 Imlay St, Eden
• Sprout Eden, 134 Imlay St, Eden

Fuel Stations between Jervis Bay and Eden

• BP, 197 Princes Hwy, Ulladulla
• Metro Petroleum, 197 Princess Hwy, Ulladulla
• BP, 90 Campbell St, Princes Hwy, Narooma
• Shell, 2 Bunga St, Bermagui
• Enhance, 88 Bega St, Tathra
• Caltex Merimbula, Merimbula
• Caltex Eden, 159 Imlay St, Eden
• Shell, 26 Mitchell St, Eden

Best Hotels in Eden

BIG4 Eden Beachfront Holiday Park

Ratings : 8.5/10 Price : US $60 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Microwave, and more.

Eden Gateway Holiday Park

Ratings : 8.7/10 Price : US $54 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Balcony, Ensuite Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, and more.

Eden Nimo Motel

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $48 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Garden View, Bathtub, Minibar, and more.

Day 3: Eden to Melbourne (706 Kms)

As we have a long day on Day 3, we’ll suggest you continue the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip at around 6 in the morning. Our first stop for the day will be Ben Boyd National Park . Located about 33 Kms ahead of Eden, it is famous for snorkeling and swimming due to its crystal clear water.

Genoa Falls is 62 Kms ahead of Ben Boyd National Park. Located very close to the princess highway, Genoa Falls is a beautiful place to have a quick break. If the weather is pleasant during your visit, you can enjoy sitting by the falls and clicking some pictures.

Day 3 of this Sydney to Melbourne road trip will be more about driving and enjoying the vehicle’s journey. Croajingolong National Park is a beautiful full-day picnic spot located about 30 kms away from the princess highway. This place is quite like the previous national parks which you visited on the road trip so far. So, you can choose between going there or not. It is located on the coast, and the reason we didn’t consider it a prominent place is because of the time it requires. You can visit here on some other day when you can spend a full day here.

We know the picture above is tempting. McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is an Instaworthy place. This bridge is built over McKenzie river hanging with the help of chains. McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is about 82 Kms from Croajinglong National Park, which will take 1 hour and 26 minutes of the ride. View from McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is beautiful, and you can click amazing pictures at this place.

Our next stop will be Jemmy’s Point Lookout , which is about 106 Kms from McKenzie River Rainforest Walk. Jemmy’s Point Lookout is one of the most famous lookout points on this coastal drive. Located in Kalmina Victoria, it offers a breathtaking view of bass strait.

After a 206 Kms long drive from Jemmy’s Point Lookout, you’ll arrive at Long Jetty Port in Welshpool . Long Jetty Port in Welshpool is a long walkway to reach the jet rides. You can enjoy a walk here above the sea. Continue your journey towards Kilcunda Coastal Reserve , which is about 104 Kms from Welshpool. You don’t necessarily need to stop here, but you can enjoy the view going through this place as this is just on the left side of the highway.

Philip Island Wildlife Park is out last stop for Day 3, and then we’ll be arriving at Melbourne. It is just a ride of 25 Kms from Kilcunda. Once you are done exploring Philip Island Wildlife Park, head towards Melbourne and rest in the hotel. We’ll be exploring Melbourne in the next two days of the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip.

Food Places between Eden and Melbourne

• Cann River Bakery, 22 Princes Hwy, Cann River
• Wild Rye’s, 14A Princes Hwy, Cann River
• Cabbage Tree Creek General Store & Bushware Cafe, 12757 Princes Hwy, Cabbage Tree Creek
• Orbust Club Hotel, 63 Nicholson St, Orbost
• THE BIG ROUTE, Nowa Nowa
• Funkey Monkey Cafe, 26 Myer St, Lakes Entrance
• Albert & Co., 201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
• Over the Hedge Cafe, 201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
• Lake Whadie Cafe and Indian, 1 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• Desi Grill Bairnsdale, 1 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• McDonald’s, 232 Main St, Bairnsdale
• Wa-De-Lock Cellar Door, 76 Tyers St, Stratford
• KFC Wonthaggi, 48 Graham St, Wonthaggi
• Maccas Store and Produce Cafe, Dalyston-Glen Forbes Rd, Corinella
• Caldermeade Farm & Cafe, 4385 S Gippsland Hwy, Caldermeade

Fuel Stations between Eden and Melbourne

• Shell, 28 Princes Hwy, Cann River
• United, 89 Salisbury St, Orbost
• BP Truckstop, 5327 Princes Hwy, Newmerella
• United Petroleum, 12-20 Princes Hwy, Lakes Entrance
• United Petroleum, 96 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• BP Truckstop, Main Street, Princes Hwy, Bairnsdale
• Shell, 6 S Gippsland Hwy, Woodside
• BP Truckstop, 105 McKenzie St, Wonthaggi
• Caltex, Soldiers Rd, Bass

Best Hotels in Melbourne

Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

Ratings : 8.1/10 Price : US $41 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Ensuite Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, Refrigerator, and more.

Crown Towers Melbourne

Ratings : 9.2/10 Price : US $233 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Bathtub, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Minibar, Free WiFi, and more.

Riverside Apartments Melbourne

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $49 Per Night, 2 Adults

Day 4 and 5: Melbourne

Melbourne is the second-largest metropolitan of Australia. It continually ranks itself in the list of most liveable cities. There are several places that you can visit in Melbourne during your Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip . We are not going in dept about tthe places. Here is the list of places that you can explore on Day 4 and 5. On Day 6, according to our itinerary, it’ll be time to go back to Sydney so we can call the road trip as completed.

Places to Visit in Melbourne:

Day 6: get back to sydney.

As we have already explored the coastal route, now is the time to head back. We suggest you take the regular route that Google Maps suggests. It will take you 875 Kms and 10 hours to reach back to Sydney.

If you have a question or doubt about anything related to the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip, please let us know in the comment section below.

Is it worth traveling from Sydney to Melbourne?

Hell Yes!!! Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip is a drive along with the Coast. It offers plenty of amazing and exciting paces that you can visit on route. Many national parks, rivers, lookout points, zoo, wildlife parks, and more lies on the route. This trip is worth traveling 2000 kms round to sydney.

How much time do I need for this Road Trip?

Sydney to Melbourne can be covered in a day even in 10 hours. But, we are going for a road trip so we’ll be exploring a lot of places. This road trip will require 6 Days in which you’ll be exploring 40+ places along with 1 night stay in Jervis Bay, 1 night stay in Eden, and 2 nights stay in Melbourne. Then we’ll be getting back to Sydney on Day 6.

Where do you stop when driving from Sydney to Melbourne?

What is the cost of sydney to melbourne road trip.

Our cost estimations for the Sydney to Melbourne trip will include fuel, hotel, food, and tourist destinations fee. The cost of the trip by car will be $917 approximately by car for four people and $686 by bike for two people.

Is it safe to travel from Sydney to Melbourne by car?

Sydney and Melbourne are two big cities of Australia. Princess highway that connects Sydney and Melbourne is one of the best and safest built highways in Australia. So, without any doubt, Yes It is safe to travel from Sydney to Melbourne by Car if you know how to drive a car.

I love to travel places and write about my experiences and travel guides to help people in making their travel plans with ease. Otherthan traveling and blogging, I work on my internet ventures and provide internet business consulting.

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

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 itinerary. 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, Hertz has great car, campervan and caravan hire options with comparative prices. They also offer one way hire options.

Two Week Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

The Sydney to Melbourne distance for this exact itinerary is 1,316km which, if you drove straight without stopping would take you about 17 hours.

Of course, where would be the fun in just driving all that way without make some amazing stops along the way!

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 on your first leg of this Sydney to Melbourne itinerary.

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.

The Grand Pacific Drive – This is a beautiful stretch of coastal road with stunning beaches and breathtaking bridges that allow you to drive 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 .

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.

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 is definitely worth a stop on your Sydney to Melbourne drive.

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.

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.

What to See & Do in Jervis Bay

The first overnight stop on this Sydney to Melbourne road trip is Jervis Bay. This a year round destination is 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.

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. Guarantee this will be one of the highlights of your road trip from Sydney to Melbourne!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour – get up close with the crystal clear waters and sea life of Jervis Bay.

Boom Netting Dolphin Cruise – get as close as possible to the resident dolphins while cruise on the boom net at the back of the boat.

Where to Stay in Jervis Bay

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Huskisson Holiday Cabins

Mid-Range – Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast

Luxury – Ceespray on Owen

Read More About Jervis Bay and Surrounds

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 on your road trip to Melbourne from Sydney, the drive to Batemans Bay is about two hours from Jervis Bay 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.

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, one of the most underrated stops when driving from Sydney to Melbourne. 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.

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!

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.

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 (see tour options below) and paddle up the river spotting sting rays as they glide under the kayak. It is pristine beauty.

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.

Suggested Batemans Bay Tours

Glass Bottom Kayak Tour – see the colourful marine life through the bottom of your glass bottom kayak as you explore the Bateman Marine Park Sanctuary.

Kayaking Oyster Tour – kayak the Clyde River and stop for an oyster tasting at the famous Oyster Shed.

Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour with Snorkeling – enjoy a half-day exploring the inlets and bays of Batemans with a stop for snorkeling.

Whale Watching Sea Kayak Tour – head out on your kayak to find whales on this amazing 4 hour tour.

Where to Stay in Batemans Bay

Budget – Shady Willows Holiday Park

Mid-Range – Bridge Motel

Luxury – Bay Breeze Boutique Motel

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 (some of the best on the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive) and beautiful views where the Moruya River meets the sea.

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.

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.

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. It is a must see on this Sydney to Melbourne trip.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 – One of the most spectacular Sydney to Melbourne road trip stops is the 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.

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.

More Oysters! – If you haven’t had your fill of this delicious morsels on your trip from Sydney to Melbourne 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 .

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.

Where to Stay in Merimbula

Budget – Sapphire Valley Caravan Park

Mid-Range – Seashells Apartments

Luxury – Albacore Apartments

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, yet one of the best Sydney to Melbourne road trip stops. 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.

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

Mid-Range – Mallacoota Hotel Motel

Luxury –  The Wave Oasis B&B

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Where to Stay in the Gippsland Lakes

Here are three accommodation options in Lakes Entrance to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Bamboo Motor Inn

Mid-Range – Big4 Whiters Holiday Village

Luxury – Bellevue On The Lakes

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 – see an abundance of wildlife.
• Mt Oberon – hike to the top for sunset.
• Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk – perfect for a cloudy day walk through the rainforest.

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.

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.

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 Promotory

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 Campground

Mid-Range – Tidal Dreaming Seaview Cottages

Luxury – Limosa Rise

Finishing Your Road Trip in Melbourne

Once your time in Wilsons Promontory is finished, it is a just under 3 hours drive onto Melbourne. You’ll drive through more of the beautiful Gippsland Region before hitting the outskirts of Melbourne and the region known as Dandenong.

For a huge array of things to do, day trips and places to stay in Melbourne, check out one of my posts below.

25 Free Things to Do in Melbourne

The Best Annual Events in Melbourne

Things to Do in Melbourne

9 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Where to Stay in Melbourne

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 where’s the adventure in that!

You can also drive the inland route via the Victorian High Country, Albury, Echuca, 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.

Things to Do in Victoria’s High Country

Things to Do in Echuca

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in the Southern Highlands

Things to Do in the NSW Snowy Mountains

How to Climb Mt Kosciuszko (outside of winter)

35 Free Things to Do in Sydney

Getting Around Sydney

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.

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Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary and map

September 10, 2024

Ready to tackle the Melbourne to Brisbane road trip? Here are our top 10 stops to help you make the most of the journey.

Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a road-trip rookie, the approximately 1,700km route from Melbourne to Brisbane offers countless opportunities for exploration.

This road trip takes travellers from Melbourne through central Victoria to Sydney, then through the Blue Mountains and along the coastline, stopping in famous beach towns on the way to Brisbane.

Before you embark on your adventure, stay road trip happy by packing your  emergency roadside kit  and updating your  emergency roadside assistance  plan. Electric car owners are advised to  check EV charging availability  along the route prior to leaving.

If you prefer a coastal route from Melbourne to Sydney, check out the top 10 best stops here .

• Port Macquarie
• Coffs Harbour

This Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary is sure to delight the whole family.

Top 10 stops on a Melbourne to Brisbane road trip

Melbourne to cobram.

• Distance: 256km
• Time: 3 hours 
• Because: It's a great base to explore the Murray River

It's about a three-hour drive from Melbourne to the quaint town of Cobram , nestled on the banks of the Murray River . Not only does  RACV Cobram Resort  provide a base for world-class fishing and winery visits,  RACV Members can save on stays there .

You can also have a picnic by the river between towering red gums at Kennedy Park Thompsons Beach, pick up vintage finds at Katamatite Bazaar, or head into town to source local produce like Rich Glen Olive Oil.  Cactus Country  makes for a great day out, with Australia's largest cacti collection across the 4.8ha property. Be adventurous and try cactus cake and cactus ice cream.

Cactus Country makes for a great excursion from Cobram. 

Cobram to Beechworth

• Distance: 126km
• Time: 1.5 hours 
• Because: It has heritage architecture and beautiful walks

Drive west along the beautiful Murray River until you reach Rutherglen, then turn south-east and your destination is Beechworth. Altogether, it takes about an hour and half to get there.

Beechworth is a pretty little town in Victoria's sweeping High Country , renowned for its charming heritage architecture. This well-preserved slice of Australian history allows you step back in time. Visit the Beechworth Historic Precinct to explore beautifully preserved gold rush-era buildings, like the Beechworth Courthouse, which was the location of more than 40 trials and hearings for the Kelly Gang and its sympathisers. The Old Beechworth Gaol and Beechworth Asylum both offer guided tours for a macabre glimpse into the past.

For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Lake Sambell, Woolshed Falls and Beechworth Gorge offer stunning outdoor settings for picnicking and hiking.

Take regular breaks on your road trip and enjoy a picnic on the banks of the Murray River.

Beechworth to Canberra

• Distance: 383km
• Time: 4 hours 
• Because: It's Australia's capital

It's a longer drive today: just over 4 hours from Beechworth to Australia's capital, Canberra .

As the heart of Australian politics, the city boasts iconic landmarks such as Parliament House, where you can explore the workings of the nation’s government and enjoy panoramic views from its roof. The Australian War Memorial is a particularly poignant site that provides a deep insight into the country's military history. Canberra’s cultural precinct is home to the National Portrait Gallery, National Gallery of Australia and the National Museum of Australia, each showcasing a rich array of art and historical artifacts. You even board a jet flight simulator if you have an interest in aviation.

Canberra is also full of green spaces, including Lake Burley Griffin, which offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and paddle boating. The city’s vibrant food scene is reflected in its bustling markets and diverse eateries, where you can sample everything from top wineries and distilleries to local produce.

Canberra is a well-designed city. Image: Tourism Australia

Canberra to Sydney

• Distance: 285km
• Because: It's got everything from opera to beaches

It's a three hour drive from Canberra to Sydney, but you should take the time to stop at Goulburn along the way. Goulburn's Big Merino ('Rambo') is a famed tourist attraction just off the southern highway exit, with a gift shop next door full of Australian-made wool products. There's also several excellent cool-climate wineries in the area.

Once in Sydney , you can visit the iconic Sydney Opera House, browse the markets and cafes at the historic Rocks district, or catch a ferry to Luna Park . Bondi Beach is a must-see, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying the scenic coastal walk that stretches to Coogee Beach. Visiting  Taronga Zoo  or going on a whale watching cruise in season is perfect for animal lovers.

Sydney's Tamarama suburb offers a suburb seaside walk. Image: Tourism Australia

Sydney to Katoomba

• Distance: 102km
• Because: It's a picturesque place to explore the Blue Mountains

Just over 1.5 hours inland of Sydney is Katoomba, your ideal base for exploring the sweeping Blue Mountains. Begin your visit exploring the quaint streets of Katoomba, where you’ll find delightful shops, galleries, and cafes perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Just a short walk away is the Three Sisters at Echo Point, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic rock formation and the surrounding Jamison Valley. Hikers will also love the Wentworth Falls track (1.4km return) and the Grand Canyon track (6.3km loop) through the mountains. If you're feeling brave, try the Blue Mountains abseiling and canyoning experience to experience nature up close.

The Blue Mountains offer stunning views and are worth the inland trip. Image: Tourism Australia

Katoomba to Port Macquarie

• Distance: 461km
• Time: 5 hours 
• Because: It's close to nature

Today is your longest drive: five hours from Katoomba in the Blue Mountains to Port Macquarie on the New South Wales coastline. Strolling along the iconic Town Beach, you can bask in the sun or take a dip in the clear, gentle waves. The historic Port Macquarie Lighthouse, perched atop a rocky outcrop, not only offers stunning panoramic views but also a glimpse into the town's maritime history.

The nearby Sea Acres Rainforest Centre provides a serene walking trail through subtropical rainforest, that is teeming with unique wildlife. Don't miss the Koala Hospital, dedicated to the care of injured koalas, to add a touch of educational enrichment to your stay.

Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour

• Distance: 153km
• Because: It has world-class beaches

Just over 1.5 hours north of Port Macquarie is Coffs Harbour. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Coffs Harbour allows you to spend your days lounging on the golden sands of Park Beach or exploring the turquoise waters of the Coffs Harbour Marina.

The Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park offer close encounters with native species, while the nearby Dorrigo National Park provides nature lovers with lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls, accessible via scenic walking trails. A sunset cruise on the Coffs Harbour estuary provides a serene way to end your day, offering picturesque views and a chance to spot playful dolphins.

Before you leave Coffs Harbour, make sure to get in some thrills at the Treetop Adventure Park  and visit the iconic Big Banana Fun Park, one of Australia's best-loved 'Big Things' .

Red Rock at Coffs Harbour offers stunning views. Image: Tourism Australia

Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay

• Distance: 233km
• Time: 2.5 hours 
• Because: It's artsy and full of eclectic surprises

You'll reach the cute, hippy town of Byron Bay 2.5 hours' drive further up the coastline from Coffs Harbour. Byron Bay is nestled on the easternmost tip of Australia, meaning that the Byron Bay Lighthouse is the place where the sun touches the land first in Australia: well worth a sunrise walk.

Renowned for its bohemian vibe and stunning natural beauty, Byron Bay’s pristine beaches, including Main Beach and Wategos Beach, are ideal for sunbathing, surfing, or a leisurely swim in the gentle waves. The town's vibrant arts and culture scene is reflected in its eclectic shops, art galleries, and lively artisan markets, where you can find unique crafts and local produce.

For a touch of nature, explore the nearby hinterlands, including the mighty Minyon Falls. Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens is 20 minutes away from Bryon Bay and promoted as a place for deep relaxation, peace, healing, and self-reflection. You can sit in an ancient amethyst cave, stand between two of the tallest crystals on earth, and wander through tranquil gardens.

Catch the sunrise first in Australia at the Byron Bay Lighthouse. Image: Tourism Australia

Byron Bay to the Gold Coast

• Distance: 92km
• Because: It's the perfect blend of family activities and nightlife

A 1.5-hour drive will take you from Byron Bay in New South Wales to the Gold Coast in Queensland. This dazzling stretch of coastline is an ideal spot for a holiday filled with sun, sand, and excitement.

Famous for its iconic surf beaches like Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, the Gold Coast offers endless opportunities for water sports, from surfing to jet boating . As evening falls, the Gold Coast comes alive with its bustling nightlife, including lively bars, clubs, and entertainment venues like Dracula's Cabaret  or the Australian Outback Spectacular .

The Gold Coast is also home to some of Australia's best theme parks , including Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World and Sea World. If nature is more your style, escape to the Gold Coast's hinterlands, with scenic walks through Tamborine Mountain, glow worms at Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park, and plenty of animal interaction opportunities at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary .

Stay at RACV Royal Pines Resort , an ideal location between Surfers Paradise, the hinterland, and the Gold Coast's amazing theme parks.

Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast is a beachgoer's dream. Image: Getty

Gold Coast to Brisbane

• Distance: 79km
• Time: 1 hour 
• Because: It's a relaxed capital city near beaches, mountains and rainforests

Just over an hour north from the Gold Coast is your final destination: Brisbane , Queensland's laid-back capital. Begin your exploration in South Bank, where you can stroll along the riverside, enjoy a dip in the inner-city Streets Beach lagoon, or visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. The city’s cultural precinct also includes the State Library, Queensland Museum and the Performing Arts Centre, showcasing a rich array of local and international talent.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Brisbane Lookout at Mount Coot-tha, where you can also enjoy walking trails through lush greenery. Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle is further highlighted by the City Botanic Gardens and the scenic Riverwalk, ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides.

RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance can help keep you on track.

Related reading.

10 best stops on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip

Visiting the best scenic towns, beaches and coastal stops between Melbourne and Sydney gives you the chance to have a relaxing drive and discover new places on a road trip.

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The best things to do near RACV Resorts in Queensland

With two RACV resorts in Queensland – the RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast and RACV Noosa Resort – the best of Southeast Queensland is on your doorstep.

Guide to the Gold Coast’s best theme parks

The Gold Coast is Australia’s theme park capital. Here’s how to make the most of your next Gold Coast trip, so you can hit up all your favourite theme parks in style.

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How to plan a camper trip around Australia

Sep 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan your motor home travels around Australia with this guide to routes, seasons and vehicles. Benjamin Probert/Getty Images

There’s no better way to experience the best of Australia than on a road trip  in a camper through its stunning and wild natural landscapes.

Australia’s National Highway 1 may not be as storied as America’s Route 66, but a “lap of the map”  – via endless surf beaches, koala-dotted forests, flaming red deserts and awe-inspiring starry skies – will be life-defining. If you haven’t got time for the whole shebang, you’ll have just as much fun exploring one coast (the east coast or west?) or even a smaller region.

While there’s buckets of information out there from travelers who’ve gone before, here are the key things to consider before you hit the road for your motor home adventure in Australia.

On a short break, focus on one region

If you have only a few weeks then you’ll need to stick to one region. If you want to spend more time communing with nature and less time driving then you might want to target a small region. 

For a mix of beaches , mountains and waterfalls head to northern NSW ( Byron Bay and around) and southern Queensland (with an incredible coast and the lush Scenic Rim region). For something similar but with emptier roads, check out the coast southwest of Perth around Margaret River and inland to the old forests of Pemberton. Tasmania is also very driveable in two weeks with mountains, beaches and delicious produce everywhere.

Flying into Darwin would take you to some of the most incredible scenery in Australia around Litchfield , Kakadu and down to Uluru and back. From Adelaide , there are options to explore the coast, wineries and wetlands south, or head into the ancient interior of Ikara-Flinders Ranges via the wineries of the Clare Valley.

The coastal roads from Melbourne to Sydney through southern NSW are long and windy, and the geography doesn’t vary quite as much, but the weather is temperate and there are many family-friendly hamlets with good camping sites. Picking up a camper in Cairns means exploring the lush Atherton Tablelands, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park , managed by its traditional owners the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people (learn more on a Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge ) and the Great Barrier Reef . 

But this is just a snapshot of options . With more time you can join a couple of these itineraries together and cruise on – say from Adelaide to Darwin, or from Sydney up to Cairns via Byron Bay in one trip.

Allow at least three months for a "lap of the map"

Some travelers make it their mission to circumnavigate the whole of Australia, and you’ll find plenty of blogs online with people sharing their tips for tackling the project over anything from six weeks to a year. 

Three months is a good minimum to dedicate to the trip. It gives you enough time for detours and longer stops at places you fall in love with, but you can also manage costs (the longer you’re away the more you spend, and there's greater chance that mechanical wear and tear will blow out your budget). 

May to October is the best time for a camper trip in Australia

Assuming you have only 12 weeks, the best time to go will be during Australia’s cooler months (May to October). In the north, you’ll be traveling in the dry season (any other time of year and a lot of the roads are impassable). Down south, it’ll be cool (cold even, with potential for snow on the Great Dividing Range) in southern NSW and Victoria – but this means campsites and caravan parks won’t be as busy.

December and January are best avoided. These months are school holidays, which means contending with domestic travelers on big summer camping trips. It's also a time with sweltering days where your legs stick to the car seat and the steering wheel is too hot to touch (although this could happen anytime from November to March).

If you’re traveling on a working holiday visa you’ll be able to stop and take up job opportunities wherever they find you – or if you’re on a self-funded gap year and can spend even longer traveling around Australia in your campervan – then you will be traveling in all seasons. Just make sure that you're not attempting to visit the north outside the dry season. 

Buying a camper can be cost-effective

Some travelers choose to pull some savings together to buy a vehicle for their once-in-a-lifetime campervan trip in Australia. This can prove cost-effective if you get the right vehicle and look after it, making it possible to sell it at the end of your adventure (with some anticipated depreciation for the extra mileage). As well as the cost of the actual van, you’ll need to factor in other expenses like registration (“rego”); insurance; a roadworthiness certificate (RWC); repairs needed to get one to resell later; and equipping the vehicle with any extras you might want such as a campfire oven, outdoors shower, bikes or canoes.

Rental firms offer a large range of motor homes and vans

Another option is to rent a vehicle from a reputable hire company. In addition to international chains like Avis, there are Australia/NZ-specific ones to check out like Apollo, Maui and Britz.

You’ll have a large range of vehicles to choose from whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line motor home/RV or very minimal van set-up or roof-top tent. Age and mileage are things to take into account when choosing between companies. The less expensive brands – usually marketed to backpackers – have older vehicles. Vans with Cheapa Campa , for example, are four years on fleet and older. 

You’ll need everyone who’s planning to drive to be at the vehicle collection with their driver’s license, plus a credit card (not a debit card) and an upfront security deposit to cover any potential damage. The best advantage of using a rental company is being able to choose a one-way trip: you could drive from Melbourne to Cairns or Perth to Broome (should you decide to tackle one coast or the other) without having to backtrack. 

Peer-to-peer campervan rentals are usually well equipped

Just as there is AirBnB for homestays, the Australian company Camplify (now also in the UK and Spain) enables campervan owners to rent to travelers directly. The costs are more affordable, and are usually well set up for an off-grid camping adventure. Some come with solar panels and decent batteries to run devices like fridges and even satellite broadband, so you won’t find yourself without any internet signal in the middle of nowhere.

When booking you get the option of adding extra insurance to reduce the “excess” you pay out of pocket should you have an accident. The only downsides: you have to return the camper from where you borrowed it, and owners can refuse your request based on your age or planned itinerary leaving the door open for discriminatory decisions. Fortunately there are loads of campers available, so you can take your pick.

Be realistic about how much space and comfort you need

Discuss what style of camper you want (and can afford) with your travel crew. Don’t forget to consider things like how you’ll manage if you don’t have showers, a camp kitchen, or toilets on board: you’ll need to budget to stay in places with facilities and (if you’re in for the long-haul time) to stop to do laundry occasionally. You also need to plan for disposing of your waste and storing things carefully overnight to ensure your campsite is not raided by local wildlife. 

Living in a small space can be challenging, (especially if one of your party is not very good at putting things away), while long drives, heat, and discomfort, can all take their toll. Consider honestly whether an RV vacation is the right trip for you before you invest in buying or hiring a motor home for a long trip. You are not going to be napping with a view of the ocean every day and some days you’ll be on the road for long stretches – Australia is big.

Get breakdown cover and download useful apps before departure

As well as adequate travel insurance to cover your vehicle and any extras, it’s a good idea to join a road users' association like the RACV or NMRA for roadside assistance in case of a breakdown.

There are also some excellent apps to help you on the road. Download them and make the most of them when you’ve got data (there are plenty of places in Australia without mobile signal).

• Wikicamps is good for free or low-cost campsites
• CamperMate includes free and paid campsites as well as facilities you will need
• Hipcamp directs you to secluded spots on private property where you can pay to camp for the night.
• Fuel Map Australia directs you to the nearest petrol stop (although current fuel prices are not reliable)
• The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) app is a must-have for local forecasts – and potential weather warnings.

Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or taking your family on a special bucket-list trip, it’s time to get planning .

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The ultimate Brisbane to Sydney road trip

Kristie Lau-Adams

Travel Journalist

11 September 2024

Find out where to stop, stay and play along the Pacific Highway.

A Brisbane to Sydney drive (or the reverse) is a rite of passage in Australia. While many tread the well-worn path with just a brief pit stop in Coffs Harbour , it’s worth detouring off the highway to explore the many coastal towns dotted along the way.

Take two days to a week meandering to enjoy those nearby sights — it’s an opportunity to experience more of this beautiful country like a local.

Brisbane to Ballina: 2.5 hours drive

You can’t leave the buzz of Brisbane without a hearty feed to set you up for the day. If you’re looking for recommendations, head to West End for a haven of cafes all competing for the best brunch award.

The Gunshop Cafe is particularly renowned for its breakfast fare, including brekky burgers, coconut and passion fruit French toast, and fried chicken with waffles and poached eggs.

Head to the Gunshop Cafe for breakfast and smoothies.

Once you’re on the road heading towards Ballina, stop halfway in Burleigh Heads for a cheeky beach trip and a cold one at Burleigh Pavillion before you leave the sunshine feeling in Queensland .

Bypass bustling Byron Bay and head for the laid-back beach vibes of Ballina on the North Coast of New South Wales and its stretch of stunning beaches.

A serene spot to sip refreshing cocktails at Ballina beach. (Image: Burleigh Pavillion)

Ballina highlights

One of the cutest spots to eat and drink here is The Belle General . With a boho feel, great coffee, and a nourishing menu, it’s a great place to start your day.

Blessed with 25km of cycle paths, it’d be a shame not to get out and enjoy them. Hire a bike and enjoy the scenery along the banks of Richmond River.

Or how about heading to a crashing waterfall? Just 20-minutes away is Killen Falls offering a viewing platform to see the magnificence up close.

The enchanting Killen Falls is situated at the heart of a rainforest. (Image: Destination NSW)

If it’s raining, make your way to Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum , and when you’re ready for dinner, order a bowl of Ballina prawns at Riva Bar & Grill . Don’t forget to pass the Big Prawn on your way out, one of Australia’s iconic big things.

Accommodation tip: Ballina Palms Boutique Motel – your own private oasis in the heart of Ballina.

Stay in this cosy boutique motel on your visit to Ballina.

Ballina to Yamba: 1.5 hours drive

Situated at the mouth of the Clarence River, you won’t regret a brief stop at the beach town of Yamba .

Go on an exhilarating road trip to the coastal town of Yamba. (Image: Destination NSW)

Yamba highlights

Grab a cuppa at Bean Scene Cafe Yamba which uses beans from local North Coast roaster, Eleganza Vietato.

Soak up the friendly village vibe and stretch your legs with some leisurely browsing along Yamba’s main street where you’ll find a strong selection of surf shops, homewares, and fashion stores, including Shack Yamba – a lifestyle store filled with coastal goodies.

Al fresco dining at the Bean Scene Cafe.

Accommodation tip: Yamba Beach Motel – overlooks Main Beach and it’s close to town.

Stop by the Yamba Beach Motel to rest and rejuvenate.

Yamba to Port Macquarie: 3 hours drive

This former convict settlement of Port Macquarie has shaken off the shackles to become one of Australia’s most popular holiday towns.

Port Macquarie highlights

You’re spoilt for choice with top spots for breakfast with a side of ocean views. Start the day with coffee at Salty Crew Kiosk right on the shores of Town Beach or Sandbox Port Macquarie for beachside brunching overlooking Flynn’s Beach.

Stretch your legs with a walk along the iconic Port Macquarie beach break wall or take a dip at one of the many inviting beaches along the coast.

Have a cold brew right on the scenic Town Beach. (Image: Salty Crew Kiosk)

As you wander the city, keep an eye out for the interesting koala sculptures dotted around town. These appealing fibreglass statues have been hand painted by selected artists and are a hit with kids.

The best spot in town for seafood is Bills Fishhouse & Bar , with a carefully curated sea-to-plate selection featuring local oysters, prawns, whole fish, and seafood platters to share. With breezy interiors and a bustling bar bringing the vacation vibes, it’s a casual and contemporary restaurant you’ll want to seek out.

If you’ve got time for a detour, a winery might not be the most obvious stop on a road trip, but Cassegrain Wines has created a welcoming oasis along the M1 motorway.

Premium drops at Cassegrain Wines.

Kids and dogs can run freely on the grass, refuel with lunch at the on-site restaurant, take a winery tour and grab a bottle of vino to enjoy at your next destination.

Accommodation tip: Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel – an apartment-style hotel in the centre of town within an easy walk to shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Linger in a little longer for pictureque views at Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel.

If you’re lingering longer, check out these 14 places to eat and drink in Port Macquarie .

Port Macquarie to Newcastle: 3 hours drive

The secret’s out, the harbour city of Newcastle is enjoying an almighty revival and there’s no shortage of places to eat, drink, shop, and stay in the city.

Newcastle highlights

Arrive hungry in Newcastle and head straight to HuBro Cafe to discover the smoothest cold brew coffee you’ll ever find, or Wil & Sons is always buzzing, as its breakfast is one of the best.

Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, Newcastle is all about the beaches and a relaxed lifestyle, so take some time to chill out at Newcastle Beach, Bar Beach, or Merewether Beach for sun-soaked downtime.

Try the signature handcrafted brew at the Hubro Cafe.

If you’re an art lover, pop into one of the many independent galleries and keep an eye out for street art at every turn.

Or if history is more your pop quiz genre, explore the past of Newcastle, as well as the unique temporary exhibits at the Newcastle Museum .

Unveil the harbour city’s glorious past at the Newcastle Museum. (Image: Destination NSW)

For a hit of entertainment before you tackle the final hurdle, take in a show at the Civic Theatre, with everything from dance and music, to theatre and comedy.

Accommodation tip: The Lucky Hotel – a luxury stay without the price tag.

The Lucky Hotel is a perfect spot to chill and unwind.

Newcastle to Sydney: 2 hours drive

You’re almost there – one last push and you’ll arrive in Australia’s biggest city: Sydney! Organise your arrival time so that you don’t clash with rush hour as the traffic is often busy.

Sydney highlights

Our ultimate guide to Sydney will tell you everything you need to know but if we can drop you off with three recommendations on what to do when you get there outside of the usual contenders, they are:

• Go for a well-deserved drink at a historic pub in The Rocks.
• Enjoy your new freedom with a walk around Circular Quay and soak in the hive of activity surrounding you.
• Head to the top of the Sydney Tower Eye , the city’s tallest structure. It’s the ultimate 360° viewpoint to find your bearings, and if you arrive just before sunset, you get to view the world below you in both daylight and at night.

Be charmed by Sydney’s spectacular city skyline. (Image: Destination NSW)

Looking for more drive inspiration? Take a peek at our guide to Australia’s best road trips .

Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.

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