Grand Pacific Drive

Stretching 140 kilometres from Sydney's southern suburbs to the charming town of Nowra, the Grand Pacific Drive is one of Australia's most spectacular coastal road trips. This route hugs the dramatic Illawarra coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views, lush rainforest escarpments, and a string of laid-back seaside villages. The undisputed highlight is the Sea Cliff Bridge, a cantilevered road that clings to the cliffs between Coalcliff and Clifton, providing a thrilling drive with the Tasman Sea crashing below. Whether you're a self-drive enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie seeking fresh seafood, this drive delivers an unforgettable slice of New South Wales.

Highlights & What to See

• Sea Cliff Bridge – Walk or cycle the pedestrian path on this iconic bridge for unparalleled coastal views and photo ops.
• Stanwell Park – A top spot for hang-gliding and paragliding; watch daredevils soar above the cliffs.
• Bald Hill Lookout – Panoramic vistas of the coastline and the bridge; perfect for a picnic stop.
• Wollongong City – Explore the vibrant harbourside, the Wollongong Art Gallery, and the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere.
• Kiama Blowhole – A natural spectacle where waves shoot water up to 30 metres into the air; also check out the nearby Kiama Lighthouse.
• Jamberoo Action Park – A fun family detour with water slides and rides set in a lush valley.
• Minnamurra Rainforest – A short walk through subtropical rainforest with a stunning waterfall and canopy boardwalk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day (8–10 hours) to drive the entire route from Sydney to Nowra with stops, or break it into two days to linger in Wollongong or Kiama. Start early to avoid traffic and allow time for walks, meals, and spontaneous beach stops. The drive itself is about 2.5 hours without stops, but the real magic lies in exploring the coastal towns and natural attractions along the way.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Royal National Park – Australia's oldest national park, just north of the drive, offers coastal walks and secluded beaches.
• Southern Highlands – Inland from the drive, discover charming villages like Bowral and Berrima, known for antique shops and cool-climate gardens.
• Jervis Bay – South of Nowra, this marine park boasts some of the whitest sand beaches in the world and excellent dolphin-watching.
• Hunter Valley – A longer detour north to Australia's premier wine region, perfect for wine tasting and fine dining.
• Blue Mountains – Combine the coastal drive with a journey into the Blue Mountains for a diverse New South Wales road trip.

Please check official sources for current details.