Grand Pacific Drive

Stretching from Sydney’s southern suburbs to the historic town of Nowra, the Grand Pacific Drive is one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal road trips. This 140-kilometre route hugs the dramatic Illawarra escarpment, offering sweeping ocean views, lush rainforest, and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re behind the wheel for a day or taking it slow over a long weekend, the drive delivers a quintessential New South Wales experience – think sea cliffs, surf beaches, and plenty of places to stop for a flat white or a fresh oyster.

Highlights & What to See

• Sea Cliff Bridge: The iconic 665-metre bridge cantilevers over the ocean between Coalcliff and Clifton. Walk or drive it for jaw-dropping views of the Pacific – it’s the most photographed spot on the drive.
• Stanwell Tops Lookout: Pull over for panoramic views of the coastline and, on clear days, all the way to the Sydney skyline. It’s also a popular hang-gliding launch point.
• Wollongong: The region’s largest city offers a lively harbour, the Wollongong Art Gallery, and the excellent Nan Tien Temple – the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, where seawater erupts through a rock fissure. Don’t miss the nearby Kiama Coastal Walk, which passes more blowholes and the historic Kiama Lighthouse.
• Jervis Bay: A short detour south brings you to some of the world’s whitest sand beaches, such as Hyams Beach, and clear waters perfect for dolphin-watching and snorkelling.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to drive the entire route without rushing, stopping at lookouts and towns along the way. For a more relaxed pace, allow two days – overnight in Wollongong or Kiama so you can enjoy a coastal walk, a meal at a beachfront café, and maybe a swim. If you’re combining it with a longer South Coast itinerary, three days lets you add Jervis Bay and the charming villages of Berry and Kangaroo Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sydney – the natural start or end point, with its world-class harbour and urban energy
• Blue Mountains – a dramatic contrast of sandstone cliffs and eucalypt forests, just a couple of hours inland
• Hunter Valley – Australia’s oldest wine region, known for semillon and shiraz, about two hours north
• Port Stephens – a stunning bay with sand dunes, dolphins, and koalas, three hours north of Sydney
• Jervis Bay – pristine beaches and marine life, easily added as a southern extension
• Kosciuszko National Park – for alpine scenery and winter skiing, a longer detour via Canberra

Please check official sources for current details.