by Zoe Ng
posted on 1 February 2025
Welcome to the Grand Pacific Drive — touted as one of the top must-do road trips of Australia (sorry Great Ocean Road), this is one of the most stunning road trips you could take. To tackle the drive through quaint coastal villages, national parks with lush rainforests, and stunning beaches, you’ll need the perfect car which you can rent on Turo. This way, whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or solo, you can enjoy every moment of the journey with the right set of wheels.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- An overview of the Grand Pacific Drive
- Expert tips for the Grand Pacific Drive
- Grand Pacific Drive: stop-by-stop itinerary
- Sights you’ll see along the Grand Pacific Drive
- Grand Pacific Drive: FAQs, answered
Grand Pacific Drive: An overview
If you’re looking for the ultimate drive down the south coast, you’ll find untouched rainforests and plenty of places to stop for a dip and completely switch off from your daily life. The drive begins in the 2nd oldest national park in the world — the Royal National Park — and takes you through the coastal towns of Wollongong, Shellharbour, and Kiama, before ending in the Shoalhaven region for the endless ocean views and breathtaking scenery.
- Drive time: About 2.5 hours (direct route)
- Drive distance: 140 km
- Driving difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best time to go: Spring (September to November) or Autumn (March to May)
- Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way: Readily available in major towns like Wollongong, Kiama and Stanwell Tops. Check the NSW Government site for official locations.
- Recommended vehicle: Volkswagen Jetta, Tesla Model 3 or Jeep Wrangler
Where is the Grand Pacific Drive?
The Grand Pacific Drive is one of Australia’s most epic road trips, perfect for anyone who loves coastal views and exploring coastal townships.
So, where does the Grand Pacific Drive start and finish? It kicks off in the Royal National Park, about a 45-minute drive from Sydney, and winds its way south through jaw-dropping scenery, including lush rainforests, cute seaside villages, and the famous Sea Cliff Bridge (a total Instagram star). The journey wraps up in the laid-back dairy-farming town of Nowra in Shoalhaven River, about 140 kilometres later.
Whether you’re chasing beach vibes, looking for delicious food and wine, or just some fresh sea air, this drive has it all!
How long is the Grand Pacific Drive?
The 140-kilometre scenic coastal drive begins in Sydney and ends in Shoalhaven, but the adventure doesn’t have to stop there! If you’re keen to keep exploring the southern highlands, you can extend your trip to the Sapphire Coast or even further south into Victoria.
Whether you tackle it in a few days or spread it out over a long weekend, there’s plenty to see and do along the way — think stunning beaches, scenic lookouts, and cosy little towns perfect for pit stops. It’s a road trip that’s as flexible as it is unforgettable!
If you’re situated in Sydney and looking to drive north instead, check out our ultimate Sydney to Cairns drive guide.
How to get to the Grand Pacific Drive
Getting to the Grand Pacific Drive is super easy and part of the fun! The adventure kicks off 45 minutes from Sydney CBD. Just hop on the Princes Highway, and before you know it, you’ll be cruising along the Grand Pacific, past stunning coastlines and lush green landscapes.
If you’re coming from further away, fly into Sydney Airport, rent a car on Turo, and you’re all set for your coastal adventure. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, getting to this iconic drive is as straightforward as it gets — and totally worth it!
Expert tips for the Grand Pacific Drive
Planning a trip along the Grand Pacific Drive? Here’s the scoop: keep an eye on the weather in Wollongong and Kiama NSW, as coastal conditions can change quickly, and some of the best views are much better enjoyed on sunny days.
While most areas have decent mobile reception, there are a few spots where it might drop out, so download maps or guides in advance just in case. Pack comfy shoes for scenic walks, a fully charged camera for all those jaw-dropping views, and don’t forget sunscreen — it’s Australia, after all! Now, let’s dive into more tips to make your drive easier and more comfortable.
What to bring for the Grand Pacific Scenic Drive
Save this list for your packing day so you’re well-prepared for your trip:
- Comfy shoes – Perfect for scenic walks and beach stops.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses – For that Aussie sunshine.
- Reusable water bottles – Stay hydrated and eco-friendly.
- Snacks or a picnic – Great for enjoying at coastal lookouts.
- Camera or smartphone – Capture those epic views.
- Weather-appropriate clothing – Layers for changing conditions.
- Portable phone charger – Keep your devices powered up.
- First-aid kit – Handy for minor bumps or scrapes.
- Map or offline navigation app – Just in case mobile reception drops out.
- Beach gear – Towel, swimwear, and flip-flops for spontaneous swims!
Where to stay along the Grand Pacific Drive
No matter who you’re travelling with — whether you’re flying solo, adventuring as a couple, or road-tripping with the whole family — the Grand Pacific Drive offers accommodation options to suit everyone’s needs and budget.
- Camping:
- Bulli Beach Tourist Park – Beachfront camping with cabins and powered sites.
- Killalea Regional Park – Perfect for nature lovers, fishing and places to rest and eat.
- Budget-friendly motels:
- Shellharbour Village Motel – Clean, spacious and affordable. Ask the staff for local foodie recommendations.
- Metro Hotel Miranda – Free parking, close to Westfield and clean rooms.
- Mid-range hotels:
- Sage Hotel Wollongong – Modern amenities and ridiculously close to the beach.
- The Sebel Kiama – Relaxing stay overlooking Kiama Harbour.
- Luxury stays:
- Novotel Wollongong Northbeach – Upscale beachfront hotel with top-notch dining.
- The Homestead – Popular wedding location, serene, modern and giant bathtubs!
- Unique stays:
- South Coast Escape Pods – Escape the daily grind and disconnect in a serene oasis.
- Cicada Luxury Camping – Situated at the entrance to Kiama, this is a must-try glamping experience.
Grand Pacific Drive: stop-by-stop itinerary
The Grand Pacific Drive is a road trip that’s as much about the journey as the destination. Here’s a stop-by-stop guide to help you plan your adventure, complete with driving distances and times.
- Stop 1: Royal National Park to Wollongong:
- Distance: 60 km
- Drive time: 1 hour, 13 minutes
Starting in the Royal National Park, Australia’s oldest national park, before crossing the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. Arrive in Wollongong to enjoy its vibrant city vibe, beaches, and great cafes.
- Stop 2: Wollongong to Shellharbour:
- Distance: 20 km
- Drive time: 25 minutes
Explore the coastal townships of Wollongong before continuing south to Shellharbour, where you can explore the quaint village, surf at Killalea Beach (a national surfing reserve), or snorkel at Bushrangers Bay.
- Stop 3: Shellharbour to Kiama:
- Distance: 14 km
- Drive time: 17 minutes
Head to Kiama, famous for its spectacular Blowhole and serene coastal walking tracks. Be sure to grab a bite at one of the local bakeries or cafes.
- Stop 4: Kiama to Shoalhaven Region:
- Distance: 45 km
- Drive time: 45 minutes
Drive through rolling green pastures to reach Nowra, situated in the Shoalhaven region and known for its riverside charm. We also highly recommend making a stop at Berry on the way for boutique shopping and incredible treats.
- Stop 5: Shoalhaven Region to Jervis Bay:
- Distance: 38 km
- Drive time: 38 minutes
Your final stop is Jervis Bay, home to pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend your time swimming, snorkelling, or spotting dolphins and whales. There are great options for camping in Huskisson and don’t forget to check out Greenfields Beach or Blenheim Beach while you’re there.
If you’re craving more adventure, keep driving south to Batemans Bay, Narooma, and the Sapphire Coast for even more breathtaking views and coastal charm.
Sights you’ll see: Grand Pacific Drive stops
Get ready for a road trip full of incredible views and epic stops along the iconic Grand Pacific Drive! Here are some of the top ones to make a stop at along the way.
Royal National Park
Just an hour from Sydney, this nature wonderland is packed with beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, and jaw-dropping cliffs — all spread across 15,000 hectares! There are plenty of fun activities to do like kayaking or paddle boarding through the stunning Port Hacking waterway, meeting Aussie icons like kangaroos, koalas, and dingoes at Symbio Wildlife Park, and picking fresh apples and stone fruit at Darkes Glenbernie Orchard. Don’t forget to check out the Appleshack for tasty ciders and jams.
If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided tour to uncover hidden beaches and dreamy bays. Or soak in epic ocean views framed by lush forest at Governor Game Lookout. Keep an eye out for colourful birds and migrating whales if you’re visiting between May and November.
Sea Cliff Bridge
Opened in 2005, this beauty is a favourite with locals and a big hit with visitors from all over. This 665-metre stunner is the star of the Grand Pacific Drive — it’s like walking (or driving) on air over the ocean! Make sure you park safely, hop out of the car and take a breezy walk along the bridge — trust us, those views are next-level.
Author’s tip: Swing by during whale migration season for some adrenaline-pumping adventure activities, like spotting whales cruising past. It’s like they planned the show just for you.
Kiama Blowhole
Kiama is home to the world’s largest blowhole — get ready for nature’s ultimate showstopper when the southeast swell hits, you’ll see water shoot over 30 metres high.
The blowhole’s first recorded sighting dates back to 1797 by explorer George Bass. Now, it draws nearly 900,000 visitors a year. With picnic spots, parking, and a nearby rock pool, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the scenery.
Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures
This famous Treetop Walk lets visitors stroll along a 1.5-kilometre loop with a 500-metre elevated steel walkway, taking you 20–30 metres above the forest floor. You won’t want to miss the Knights Tower — a spiral climb to 45 metres above ground, offering breathtaking views of the rainforest, beautiful coastal towns, and the Pacific Ocean.
Other must-try activities are the Illawarra Fly Zipline Tour which lets you soar through the treetops on ziplines and suspension bridges, all 35 metres above the forest floor, and the archery experience where you can take aim and challenge your friends and family to see who can hit the bullseye.
Jervis Bay
Kick off your day with a glass (or two) of sustainable wine at Mountain Ridge Wines, a family-run gem. Try their macadamia liqueur, soak up the views, and treat yourself to a local feast in their cosy restaurant — just make sure you have a designated driver appointed.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy some fresh oysters at Jim Wild’s Oysters, shucked on the spot and best enjoyed by the river, see some seals, dolphins, penguins, and whales from May to November at the Jervis Bay Marine Park, or jump on a cruise with Jervis Bay Wild or Dolphin Watch Cruises to get up close to marine life, there’s something for everyone.
Grand Pacific Drive: Frequently asked questions
How long does the Grand Pacific Drive take?
It takes roughly 2 hours from start to finish if you’re driving direct, however, it’s recommended you spread the drive over 3–6 days to allow yourself the time to explore all the sights and local towns. This way you’ll be able to savour and enjoy everything this beautiful coastal drive has to offer.
Is Grand Pacific Drive free?
Yes, the Grand Pacific Drive is free. However, fees may apply for parking and national park entry.
Where does the Grand Pacific Drive start in Sydney and end?
The official route begins at Royal National Park and ends at Jervis Bay. You can easily extend your trip to the Sapphire Coast. Make your start from Sydney, just 45 minutes away or drive in reverse from Canberra or Melbourne.
What is the most scenic drive in New South Wales?
The Grand Pacific Drive is hands down the most scenic in New South Wales, offering an unbeatable mix of rugged cliffs, sparkling beaches, lush rainforests, and breathtaking coastal views that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for something more inland, why not try and tackle the incredible Sydney to Perth drive instead?
Explore the Grand Pacific Drive with the perfect car
The Grand Pacific Drive is all about freedom, adventure, and unforgettable views — so why not make the journey as exciting as the destination? Whether you want a spacious SUV for the family, a zippy convertible for that wind-in-your-hair experience, or an eco-friendly option to explore sustainably, having the right car can make all the difference.
With Turo, you can find the perfect ride to match your road trip style. Choose from a wide range of vehicles hosted by locals, tailored to your needs and budget. Book your car in just a few clicks, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!
Start your Grand Pacific Drive journey and rent the perfect car on Turo today — where every car has a story, and your next one is ready to take you there.
Zoe Ng
Zoe is a writer from Malaysia who now calls Sydney home. With a background in crafting engaging campaigns and writing for one of Asia’s largest airlines, Zoe loves creating compelling travel content and sharing her experiences and insights. When she’s not off planning her next big trip, Zoe enjoys discovering new food spots and living vicariously through Google Maps.
