Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive: 5-7 Day Itinerary

If your idea of the perfect Australian road trip blends sugar-white beaches, laid-back surf towns, wildlife encounters, and epic coastal scenery, the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is your dream route. Skipping the fast inland highway in favor of the A1 and Princes Highway, this itinerary hugs the New South Wales and Victorian coast for more than 1,000 kilometers of ocean views, national parks, and small-town charm. Whether you have 5 days or a full week, this guide gives you a flexible plan that showcases the very best of the South Coast and East Gippsland.

In the sections below, you will find a day-by-day itinerary, travel times, where to sleep, top experiences, and insider tips to help you turn the key and go. It is equal parts relaxation and adventure, and it delivers that unforgettable, only-in-Australia mix of wild nature and warm hospitality.

Highlights at a glance:

• Drive the Grand Pacific Drive and cross the Sea Cliff Bridge
• Swim or snorkel in crystal-clear Jervis Bay, famous for its white sand
• Taste fresh oysters on the NSW South Coast and in Gippsland
• See fur seals at Barunguba Montague Island near Narooma
• Watch whales and learn maritime history in Eden
• Explore Croajingolong National Park and the serene inlets of East Gippsland
• Hike granite peaks and beaches in Wilsons Promontory National Park
• Meet the penguins of Phillip Island and stroll Brighton’s colorful bathing boxes as you approach Melbourne

This is a road trip that sells itself the moment you hit that first clifftop lookout. Let’s get you on the road.

Why Choose the Coastal Route

The inland Hume Highway gets you from Sydney to Melbourne in one long day. The coastal route turns the journey into a holiday. Here is why travelers love it:

• Ocean views nearly the entire way, with pullovers, lookouts, and beach walks
• Softer driving days with frequent breaks in small towns
• Abundant wildlife, from kangaroos and wombats to dolphins, penguins, and whales
• National parks that are beautiful and easy to access
• Friendly coastal communities with great cafes, seafood, and local produce
• More opportunities for unique experiences, like seal snorkels and penguin parades

If you have 5-7 days, the coastal route is the smarter, richer choice.

Quick Facts and Trip Planning Overview

• Total distance: Approximately 1,050 to 1,150 km, depending on detours (650 to 715 miles)
• Typical drive time: 14 to 18 hours total, split into short daily legs
• Best direction: Either way, although this guide runs Sydney to Melbourne
• Ideal trip length: 6 to 7 days for a leisurely pace, 5 days if you skip a few stops
• Summary route: Sydney, Royal National Park, Kiama, Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula, Eden, Mallacoota, Lakes Entrance, Metung, Wilsons Promontory or Inverloch, Phillip Island, Melbourne
• Road type: Sealed two-lane highway with scenic detours, straightforward to drive

Best time to go:

• Oct to Dec for spring color and warm beach days without peak crowds
• Jan to early March for classic summer fun, book well ahead and start early to beat traffic
• May to Oct for whale watching between Jervis Bay, Eden, and Wilsons Prom, cooler weather but fewer crowds

The 5-7 Day Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive Itinerary

Below are three pacing options that use the same highlights. Each day includes recommended stops, drive times, top experiences, and a selection of places to stay. Adjust to your style and season.

• 5-day version: Focus on Jervis Bay, Narooma, Eden, Lakes Entrance, Phillip Island
• 6-day version: Add a night in Lakes Entrance or Wilsons Prom
• 7-day version: Enjoy Jervis Bay, Narooma, Merimbula or Eden, Lakes Entrance, Wilsons Prom, Phillip Island, and a relaxed roll into Melbourne

Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay via Royal National Park and Kiama

• Distance and time: 200 to 230 km, 3.5 to 4.5 hours without long stops
• Route: Sydney, Royal National Park, Stanwell Tops, Sea Cliff Bridge, Kiama, Berry, Jervis Bay

Start early to catch the light on the cliffs of Royal National Park, one of the world’s oldest national parks. Follow the Grand Pacific Drive, rolling past rainforest gullies and out to the Pacific.

Top stops:

• Bald Hill Lookout at Stanwell Tops for hang gliders and sweeping coastal views
• Walk along the Sea Cliff Bridge pedestrian path for that iconic curve over turquoise water
• Kiama Blowhole and Little Blowhole, best on a rising swell
• Gerringong or Gerroa for a coffee with a view of Werri or Seven Mile Beach
• Berry for boutique browsing and a bakery stop

Arrive mid to late afternoon in Jervis Bay, a marine park with famously soft, white sand and sheltered, gin-clear water. Hyams Beach is the poster child, but you will find quieter sands in Booderee National Park.

What to do in Jervis Bay:

• Swim and snorkel at Greenfield Beach, Hyams Beach, or Murrays Beach
• Join a dolphin or whale watching cruise from Huskisson (seasonal for whales)
• Sunset at Huskisson Wharf, dinner at a casual seafood spot

Where to stay:

• Huskisson and Vincentia are convenient for cafes and cruises
• Booderee National Park campgrounds for a nature-first night
• Higher-end stays around Hyams or boutique cabins in the bush

Short on time today:

• Skip the Kiama Blowhole and head straight to Jervis Bay for more beach time

Day 2: Jervis Bay to Narooma

• Distance and time: 200 to 230 km, about 3 to 3.5 hours
• Route: Jervis Bay, Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Mossy Point or Tomakin, Murramarang, Bermagui, Narooma

This is a day of small towns and beach breaks. Take it at an easy pace.

Top stops:

• Ulladulla Sea Pool for a dip if the morning is warm
• Batemans Bay for Clyde River oysters, a walk at Corrigans Beach, or a kayak on the river
• Mossy Point and Broulee for a gentle headland walk and a cafe stop
• Murramarang National Park, especially Pebbly Beach where kangaroos often graze
• Bermagui for Blue Pool, a natural rock pool with a spectacular horizon

Afternoon arrival in Narooma. The water here is electric blue, the bar is photogenic, and the seafood is superb.

Signature experiences in Narooma:

• Cycle or walk the shared path along Wagonga Inlet
• Barunguba Montague Island nature tour with fur seals and little penguins, snorkel in summer and early autumn
• Fresh oysters at waterside shacks

Where to stay:

• Narooma motels and boutique lodges with inlet views
• Campgrounds near the water in Narooma or at Mystery Bay

For a 5-day itinerary:

• Keep your stops short and aim to arrive in Narooma by mid afternoon to join a late tour or enjoy a long sunset

Day 3: Narooma to Merimbula or Eden

• Distance and time: 120 to 190 km, about 2 to 3 hours
• Route: Narooma, Central Tilba, Tathra, Merimbula, Pambula, Eden

Ease into the morning with a quick trip to Central Tilba for heritage streets and cheesemaking, then follow the coast through forest and beach towns. It is a day filled with food and views.

Top stops:

• Central Tilba for Tilba Dairy cheese tastings and heritage architecture
• Tathra Wharf for historical displays and ocean panoramas, excellent for coffee
• Merimbula Boardwalk, an easy nature stroll over the lake, good for birdwatching
• Pambula River mouth, a turquoise channel with calm swimming
• Eden for whaling history at the Killer Whale Museum and coastal lookouts

Whale season runs roughly from May to October. Eden is one of the best vantage points on the east coast, with guided offshore tours available.

Where to stay:

• Merimbula is a lively base with dining and family-friendly beaches
• Pambula for a more chilled village feel
• Eden if you are aiming for an early start to Victoria tomorrow

For a 7-day itinerary:

• Stay in Merimbula for dinner, then stroll the foreshore or grab gelato on the esplanade

Day 4: Eden to Lakes Entrance via Mallacoota and Croajingolong National Park

• Distance and time: 270 to 320 km, 3.5 to 4.5 hours
• Route: Eden, cross into Victoria, Genoa, Mallacoota, Croajingolong National Park, Cann River, Orbost, Lakes Entrance

Cross the state line into Victoria and prepare for a day of wilderness and wide horizons. The East Gippsland coast feels wonderfully untouched.

Top stops:

• Mallacoota Inlet for kayak hire, birdlife, and calm waters framed by forest
• Croajingolong National Park with short walks to beaches and tea-colored creeks
• Shipwreck Creek or Secret Beach for secluded sand and rugged headlands
• Orbost for fuel and a stretch on the Snowy River bridge
• Lakes Entrance footbridge to Ninety Mile Beach for a long, flat beach walk

Where to stay in Lakes Entrance area:

• Lakes Entrance motels, apartments, and waterfront holiday parks
• Metung for a smaller, upscale village vibe with hot springs and marina walks
• Paynesville or Raymond Island if you plan to visit koalas tomorrow

Food and drink:

• Lakes Entrance fish and chips on the esplanade
• Gippsland breweries and bakeries for a relaxed evening

For a 5-day itinerary:

• Keep Mallacoota brief, or skip it if you are short on time, to ensure afternoon beach time in Lakes Entrance

Day 5: Lakes Entrance to Wilsons Promontory or Inverloch

• Distance and time: 230 to 290 km, 3 to 4.5 hours depending on detours
• Route options:
  • Scenic inland detour to Metung, then to Yarram and Wilsons Promontory
  • Coastal arc through Paynesville, Sale, Yarram, Tarra Bulga side trip if time allows, then Inverloch

Start slow with coffee in Metung or stroll along the waterfront in Lakes Entrance. If wildlife is your thing, detour to Raymond Island from Paynesville, where koalas often lounge in trees along signed walking routes.

Detours and top stops:

• Raymond Island Koala Trail, short ferry ride from Paynesville, free foot passenger ferry at set times
• Agnes Falls near Toora, short walk to a graceful cascade in farmland
• Tarra Bulga National Park for a cool-temperate rainforest break and a suspension bridge, allow 1.5 to 2 hours
• Arrive at Wilsons Promontory National Park for granite peaks and teal-water beaches, or choose Inverloch for a coastal town base

Wilsons Prom is a highlight of the entire trip. The Tidal River area has walks for all levels and wildlife often seen at dusk.

Where to stay:

• In peak seasons, book Wilsons Prom accommodation and camping well ahead, Tidal River campground is popular
• Foster, Yanakie, Fish Creek for country stays near the park entrance
• Inverloch for beachside apartments and family-friendly facilities

For a 5-day itinerary:

• If you have to choose, base in Inverloch to streamline tomorrow’s drive and still enjoy beaches and coastal walks

Day 6: Wilsons Promontory or Inverloch to Phillip Island

• Distance and time: 110 to 180 km, 2 to 3 hours
• Route: Wilsons Prom or Inverloch, Kilcunda, San Remo, Phillip Island

Make the most of the morning. At Wilsons Prom, pick a short walk, then cruise past rolling farmland and sea views to Phillip Island. From Inverloch, drop by the Bunurong Coastal Drive between Cape Paterson and Inverloch, famous for its rock platforms and dinosaur dig sites.

Top stops:

• Squeaky Beach and Picnic Bay at Wilsons Prom, short walks with big views
• Kilcunda Rail Bridge for a coastal photo and coffee at the general store
• Phillip Island Nature Parks for the Penguin Parade at sunset, book ahead
• The Nobbies Boardwalk and blowhole area for dramatic clifftops and seal colony viewing platforms
• Cowes jetty for a relaxed lunch, ice cream, and a swim on still days

Where to stay:

• Cowes for convenience, restaurants, and family-friendly options
• Rhyll for a quieter village feel near wetlands
• Newhaven or Ventnor for beach houses and coastal walks

Dining:

• Fresh fish and chips in Cowes
• Gippsland wines and farm produce at local eateries

For a 6-day itinerary:

• You can combine Wilsons Prom highlights in the morning and still arrive in time for the Penguin Parade, but book accommodation in Cowes for a simple check-in

Day 7: Phillip Island to Melbourne via the Bayside Suburbs

• Distance and time: 140 to 160 km, 2 to 2.5 hours
• Route: Phillip Island, San Remo bridge, Bass Coast, South Gippsland Highway, Frankston, Mornington Peninsula detour optional, Brighton, St Kilda, Melbourne CBD

Your final leg can be a straight run to Melbourne, or a leisurely coastal meander with iconic photo stops.

Options:

• Direct route to Melbourne for a midday arrival and lunch at Queen Victoria Market
• Bayside route with stops at Frankston or Mornington for a beach walk
• Brighton Beach Boxes for colorful photos with city skyline in the distance
• St Kilda for cake shops, the pier, and a final beach stroll before rolling into the city

Where to end:

• Drop your car near the CBD or Southbank, then celebrate the trip with dinner on the Yarra or in vibrant laneways

For a 5-day itinerary:

• If you trimmed earlier days, you will still reach Melbourne comfortably today after breakfast on the island

Customizing Your Pace: 5, 6, or 7 Days

• 5 days:

  • Night 1 Jervis Bay
  • Night 2 Narooma
  • Night 3 Eden
  • Night 4 Lakes Entrance
  • Night 5 Phillip Island, then drive to Melbourne the following morning or later that night
  • Skip longer detours like Tarra Bulga and Wilsons Prom to keep the pace

• 6 days:

  • Nights as above, add a night at Wilsons Prom or Inverloch after Lakes Entrance
  • Slightly shorter daily drives, more time for walks and swims

• 7 days:

  • Jervis Bay, Narooma, Merimbula or Eden, Lakes Entrance or Metung, Wilsons Prom, Phillip Island, Melbourne
  • This version is the most relaxed, ideal for families or travelers who love slow mornings and sunset walks

Where to Stay and When to Book

Accommodation fills early in summer and during school holidays. For a stress-free trip, book at least the first two nights and the final two nights ahead of time. Consider a mix:

• Beachfront motels and apartments in Kiama, Jervis Bay, Merimbula, Lakes Entrance, Cowes
• Character stays in villages like Berry, Central Tilba, Metung, Fish Creek
• National park campgrounds in Booderee and Wilsons Prom for nature immersion, permits required
• Holiday parks with cabins are excellent for families

Average nightly ranges:

• Motels and apartments: AUD 140 to 300, higher in summer
• Cabins and holiday parks: AUD 120 to 250
• National park campsites: AUD 30 to 60 per site, book ahead

Top Experiences You Should Not Miss

• Grand Pacific Drive and Sea Cliff Bridge photos on Day 1
• Jervis Bay dolphin cruise or a snorkel with rays and fish in calm coves
• Bermagui Blue Pool sunrise or late afternoon swim
• Seal snorkel at Barunguba Montague Island near Narooma, seasonal
• Merimbula Boardwalk at golden hour
• Eden whale watching in season and the Killer Whale Museum for fascinating local stories
• Footbridge to Ninety Mile Beach at Lakes Entrance for a horizon-to-horizon stroll
• Wilsons Prom hiking, lookouts, and wildlife spotting at dusk
• Penguin Parade on Phillip Island with eco-friendly viewing platforms
• Brighton bathing boxes on your final approach to Melbourne

Food and Drink Along the Way

The South Coast and Gippsland are both foodie regions with fresh seafood and farm produce.

• Oysters: Clyde River in Batemans Bay, Pambula Lake, and near Lakes Entrance
• Dairy and cheese: Central Tilba, Gippsland creameries
• Bakeries and cafes: Berry, Bermagui, Merimbula, Metung, Foster, Cowes
• Wineries and breweries: Gippsland has several cellar doors and craft breweries
• Seafood: Lakes Entrance trawlers, fish and chips on the esplanade, Phillip Island eateries

Tip: Weekends can be busy in popular towns. Early lunches help you beat the rush and keep the day relaxed.

Practical Road Trip Essentials

Driving and distances:

• Expect 2 to 4 hours of driving most days, split with scenic breaks
• Wildlife is active at dawn and dusk, slow down in those periods, especially near national parks
• Most of the route is on the Princes Highway or coastal connectors, with clear signage

Tolls and passes:

• You can avoid Sydney toll roads by following signs to the Princes Highway early. If you use a toll road, arrange an electronic pass online
• National park entry fees may apply at Booderee (Commonwealth managed) and Wilsons Prom, check official sites for current pricing

Fuel and charging:

• Fuel is available in all major towns. Keep the tank healthy between Eden and Lakes Entrance where distances are longer
• EV charging is expanding across the route, with fast chargers in larger towns. Plan your stops with an EV network map in advance

Safety and conditions:

• Summer brings heat and sometimes bushfire risk. Check local alerts and heed closures
• In winter, weather can be cool and windy on headlands, pack layers
• Roads are sealed, yet narrower in sections. Overtake safely and allow faster traffic to pass

What to Pack

• Light layers, swimwear, hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with grip for boardwalks and headlands
• A compact daypack and reusable water bottle
• Snorkel set for Jervis Bay and calm coves
• Insect repellent for dusk near wetlands
• Binoculars for whales, birds, and koalas
• A small first-aid kit and a power bank for your phone
• If camping, book sites ahead and bring a headlamp

Respect for Country and Nature

You will travel through the traditional lands of the Dharawal, Dharumba, Yuin, Bidawal, Monero Ngarigo, and Gunaikurnai peoples. Many sites on this route hold deep cultural significance.

• Stay on marked trails and respect cultural sites
• Take your rubbish with you and leave no trace
• Give wildlife space. Do not feed animals and slow down on roads at dawn and dusk
• Support local businesses, artists, and cultural experiences

Budgeting Your Trip

Approximate costs for two travelers for 6 days:

• Fuel: AUD 180 to 260 depending on vehicle and detours
• Accommodation: AUD 900 to 1,500 for mid-range stays
• Activities: AUD 200 to 500 for tours like seal snorkels, penguin viewing, or whale watching
• Food and drink: AUD 400 to 700 depending on dining choices

These are ballpark figures. You can save by mixing self-catering with restaurant meals and choosing cabins or campsites for part of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive suitable for families?

• Yes. Daily distances are manageable and there are beaches, wildlife parks, boardwalks, and playgrounds along the route. Choose apartment-style stays and holiday parks for extra space and pools.

Can I do the trip in reverse from Melbourne to Sydney?

• Absolutely. The scenery and experiences work beautifully either way. Reverse the itinerary and aim for similar legs.

Is the coastal route safe for a 2WD sedan or a campervan?

• Yes. The main highways and access roads to the towns and national parks listed here are sealed. Some scenic tracks are gravel, yet you can skip those if your rental agreement restricts them.

When should I book the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island?

• Book as soon as you know your dates, especially during weekends and school holidays. Choose from general viewing or premium platforms.

Do I need a 4WD for Wilsons Promontory?

• No for the main areas. The primary roads and most attractions are accessible by 2WD. Check park alerts for any seasonal closures.

What is the best month for whale watching?

• Typically June to October, with variations year to year. Eden and Jervis Bay are standouts. You may also see whales from headlands along the route.

One-Week Slow-Travel Variation

Have 7 nights and want to linger? Try this:

• Night 1 Jervis Bay - second night optional if you love beach time
• Night 2 Narooma - add Montague Island tour
• Night 3 Merimbula or Pambula - enjoy beaches and oysters
• Night 4 Metung - evening in the hot springs
• Night 5 Wilsons Prom - full day of hikes
• Night 6 Phillip Island - penguins and coastal boardwalks
• Night 7 Mornington Peninsula or St Kilda - wineries or city beach vibes before a final short hop into the CBD

Tips for a Seamless Trip

• Start early each day to enjoy quiet headlands and easy parking at popular beaches
• Keep a flexible mindset. If a town steals your heart, linger and shift miles to the next day
• Pack a soft picnic kit and stop at farm gates or bakeries for casual lunches with a view
• Check visitor centers for local maps, tide times, and seasonal events
• If you plan national park camping, secure bookings well in advance

Sample Daily Driving Times and Distances

• Sydney to Jervis Bay: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, 200 to 230 km
• Jervis Bay to Narooma: 3 to 3.5 hours, 200 to 230 km
• Narooma to Merimbula or Eden: 2 to 3 hours, 120 to 190 km
• Eden to Lakes Entrance: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, 270 to 320 km
• Lakes Entrance to Wilsons Prom or Inverloch: 3 to 4.5 hours, 230 to 290 km
• Wilsons Prom or Inverloch to Phillip Island: 2 to 3 hours, 110 to 180 km
• Phillip Island to Melbourne: 2 to 2.5 hours, 140 to 160 km

These times exclude longer hikes or tours. Always allow time for photos, swims, and snacks.

Responsible Travel and Seasonal Notes

• Summer: Hot days and busy beaches. Book early and consider sunrise swims or later afternoon beach time to avoid midday heat
• Autumn and spring: Mild weather and clear light make for photogenic days and comfortable walks
• Winter: Crisp mornings, low crowds, and prime whale season. Pack warm layers for wind on exposed headlands
• Fire safety: Always check park alerts and heed any fire restrictions or closures, especially in late summer

Final Thoughts: Turn the Journey Into the Destination

The Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is more than a line on a map. It is the sound of waves under the Sea Cliff Bridge, the gleam of Hyams Beach in midday sun, the surprise of a kangaroo grazing by the dunes, and the satisfaction of fish and chips eaten with sandy feet. With this 5-7 day itinerary, you have a plan that balances easy driving with bucket-list experiences. All that remains is to choose your dates, book key nights, and let the coast guide you south.

Ready to roll? Start in Sydney with a full tank and a sense of curiosity. By the time you cross into Melbourne, you will have a camera full of memories, a new list of favorite beach towns, and the itch to do it all again.