Grand Pacific Drive. Welcome to one of Australia's most underrated scenic coastal road trips.
This easy day trip from Sydney is worth extending out to a weekend away, or even a week's escape. This section of the NSW South Coast is often bypassed by travellers taking the highway straight to Bulli Pass or further south. However, thanks to the unique Sea Cliff Bridge and a trend towards younger families moving into these coastal townships, the whole coastline is enjoying a revival. The boarded-up hotels have re-opened as trendy gastro-pubs. The old-school takeaway fish and chip shops are being taken over by a welcome mix of cuisines and dine-in options. There are farmers markets, sourdough bakeries and quirky coffee shops dotted along the drive and it's worth taking your time on the journey to explore and enjoy.
Royal National Park
 | Start your drive in the Royal National Park, less than an hour from Sydney. You could spend your whole first day just enjoying this region. Picnic and BBQ spots are dotted throughout for families and larger groups to meet and enjoy. If you love to get amongst nature, there are over 100kms of cycling and walking trails winding their way through the National Park. Explore at your own pace, taking on cliffs, beautiful rainforests and beaches. There are secret beaches to be found and explored and then of course there are also the Insta-worthy attractions, like Wedding Cake Rock (pictured) and the Figure 8 Pools. |
Bald Hill & Stanwell Tops
| As you make your way out of the Royal National Park, you'll want to stop at one of the South Coast's most popular lookouts, Bald Hill, sometimes known as Stanwell Tops. If for no other reason, pop out to snap the incredible panoramic view overlooking the famous Sea Cliff Bridge and scenic South Coast cliffs. If you've got a little more time, have a seat and take in the feeling of being on top of the world. Bald Hill is also known internationally for hang gliding. Watch as they glide through the bright blue sky and over the cliffs down to Stanwell Park. Maybe you'll have the nerve to try it yourself one day. |  |
Sea Cliff Bridge
Make your way down the mountain via steep hairpin turns and you'll begin to drive past an eclectic mix of dilapidated homes. Some hanging on the cliffside, contrasting with modern architectural feats straight from Grand Designs. Soon, you'll approach the jewel in the crown, the Sea Cliff Bridge (pictured). An iconic 665m bridge. It snakes out over the Pacific Ocean, following the curves of the cliff sides. While driving over the bridge is a fun experience (I still often video my journey over it, despite having done it a hundred times), stopping at either end and walking the bridge is highly recommended.
| While the drive is a one-of-a-kind experience, the road barriers limit the view to mostly sky, but beautiful as it is, it's the ocean you want to see! There is a wide walkway along the full length of the bridge to make it easy and safe. Stop along the bridge and enjoy the sweeping ocean views and beautiful clear aqua waters. Early morning and late afternoon make for the best photo opportunities and the least crowds. |  |
From here, the options are endless. It depends on how long you've got! Continue your journey south and take in the incredible beaches, cafes, wineries, orchards and bars on offer throughout the coastal townships of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Huskisson, and Shoalhaven.
If you like the sound of spending more than just a day trip, send me a message and I'll be in touch. I can personalise a recommendation to suit how long you have to explore this picturesque, underrated jewel of this amazing country we call home.
