The Grand Pacific Drive is well deserving of its reputation as one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal road trips. ELISA ELWIN hit the road to create the ultimate family road trip itinerary.
If your family is always seeking an outdoor adventure, you’re in for a treat: the beauty of nature shines at every stop and scenic vista in this region of the NSW South Coast.
Another reason this route is so special? You can tick off many of NSW’s best family holiday destinations all in a single road trip — Wollongong, Kiama and Jervis Bay, for starters — along with many ‘bucket list’ attractions like the Sea Cliff Bridge, the Kiama Blowholes and surf haven ‘The Farm’ at Killalea.
I’ve been holidaying on the South Coast for over 15 years, with and without kids, and still discover something new each time (from secret beaches to spiffy new cafes and playgrounds). When I was asked to road-test the ultimate Grand Pacific Drive itinerary in the new MG HS, I couldn’t wait to get started.
And here are the results — the ultimate kid-friendly Grand Pacific Drive road trip, tried, tested and very much adored.
Where does the Grand Pacific Drive start and end?
The official Grand Pacific Drive road trip runs for around 140 km from the Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, to Shoalhaven or Jervis Bay. Once there, you can extend the drive down to Eurobodalla and the Sapphire Coast, head back the way you came, or veer inland to return via the Southern Highlands.
It takes anywhere between three and five hours to drive the entire route non-stop, depending on traffic (both daily and seasonal fluctuations) and route of choice — whether you’re following the Princes Highway/Motorway (aka the M1 or A1) or taking the “scenic route” along the coast.
How long do you need for the Grand Pacific Drive?
I recommend spending at least three days on the Grand Pacific Drive, if not five or more. Extending and looping the road trip breaks driving time down into small, manageable chunks — typically under an hour at a time — so it’s manageable even with babies and toddlers.
A round trip is ideal for Sydney residents and visitors flying in, and gives each destination time to shine. Here’s a quick summary of my route:
Planning your Grand Pacific Drive road trip
Rest stops and amenities
There are many rest stops on the Grand Pacific Drive, from village cafes to picnic areas, parks with playgrounds and scenic lookouts — but amenities vary and they aren’t always right where you (ie. your suddenly-busting preschooler) need them.
Look for viable loo stops along the day’s route ahead of time, along with where you’ll refuel (both the car and the hungry bellies). Keep snacks and drinking water in the car in case there’s no potable water.
Petrol stations and EV charging stations are found in towns along the drive, so fuel up before heading up a national park or inland attraction (including the entire Royal National Park stretch between Kirrawee and Austinmer). Small village servos can also have limited trading hours.
Navigation and mobile reception
The main touring route and key attractions on the Grand Pacific are well signposted. GPS is reliable and there’s mobile reception for most of the trip, with rare patchy areas. However, if you take a wrong turn, miss your exit, or need to hunt down a toilet, it can be a pain to get back on track.
Admittedly, I still do this after driving the route for decades, resulting in a few not-so-delightful detours several towns over! Thankfully, the MG HS had my back this trip — it was a cinch to sync my smartphone for live navigation on the driver-side dashboard display. The two custom displays kept all my road trip must-haves handy (weather, calendar, AC, podcasts) with real-time answers on route changes, nearby servos and lookout stops. A total gamechanger for banishing driver distractions.
I didn’t have any trouble with reception, but the further you get off the main drag, the more likely it is you’ll lose phone signal. To be safe, pre-save route maps to multiple family devices in case one goes flat. A paper touring map for emergencies is never a bad idea.
Tip: Set up your itinerary as a Google or Apple calendar for hands-free, on-the-go reference via voice assistant. This is a great trip planning task for big kids to help with.
Speed limit
Speed limits vary a lot through different portions of this route, from motorway to coastal villages and winding mountain roads. Sometimes you’ll be going 40 kph, and other stretches it’s 100. If your car has intelligent speed assist like mine did, it’s a godsend. If not, keep a close eye on signage.
Tip: I know it’s tempting, but avoid slowing down on the drive to check out the view. Instead, pull over when safe and/or stop regularly at lookout points to prevent traffic bottlenecks.
Accommodation
Places to stay along the Grand Pacific Drive span the full range, from free and cheap campsites to holiday parks, short-stay rentals and boutique hotels.
My advice: it’s worth booking accommodation with a kitchen, even for one night’s stay. It’s a must if you need to prepare bottles — but also means you can “eat in” if the kids are tired and fussy, keep food cold overnight, clean and dry water bottles and Tupperware, make sandwiches or cut fruit for picnic lunches, and refreeze your ice bricks for the cooler.
Most activities on this trip are cheap or free, which can offset a higher spend on self-catering accommodation (especially if you’re not eating takeaway for every meal). Laundry facilities are a huge bonus too, especially for clean, dry swimwear and beach towels.
Tip: If you’re travelling during NSW school holidays, book early. Very, very early!
Road safety on the Grand Pacific Drive
Keep a close eye on weather and road conditions: it’s not a difficult drive overall, but the route’s famous clifftop roads and lookout ascents can be slippery — or just downright unnerving — in heavy rain, thunderstorms or fog (very common on the Sea Cliff Bridge and other coastal stretches). Stay alert to the potential for wildlife crossing the road.
My trip saw some patches of bad weather (and frankly obnoxious traffic, as I wasn’t careful enough to avoid peak times). The next-level safety features on the MG HS were a major factor in keeping my nerves calm!
I knew the Safety suite was monitoring everything happening around my car; adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe distance, and if an obstacle or impending collision is detected, it can jump in with autonomous emergency braking, which is very reassuring. The car handled beautifully throughout, but peace of mind is truly priceless.
Vehicle requirements
You don’t need a 4WD vehicle for the Grand Pacific Drive as long as you stay on trusted sealed roads. Turn-offs in national parks and inland regions can lead to gravel or dirt roads, so avoid following unknown routes.
Whether you’re hiring a car or upgrading, check the ANCAP rating for the make and model, and don’t underestimate the value of the newest safety tech. Features like the MG HS’s intelligent cruise assist also make driving less tiring and more enjoyable overall, so the driver isn’t drawing the short straw on road trip fun.
What to pack
Don’t underpack for this one — there’s a wide variety of outdoor activities to account for, including swimming, beach trips and bushwalks. The South Coast also gets colder than Sydney at night, which can catch people off guard. Go for layers so it’s easy to dress kids warmer or cooler through the day, and keep a jacket per person in the car, as the ocean breezes get nippy at lookouts.
5-day Grand Pacific Drive family road trip itinerary
Between charming seaside towns, you’ll follow the NSW South Coast along winding sea cliffs, stop to stretch your legs at breathtaking lookouts, paddle at countless kid-friendly beaches, share picnics beside sparkling creeks and waterfalls… the list goes on.
You’ll want to tweak the day’s schedule to suit your family’s interests and daily routine (eating, napping, and so on). If your kids are good car sleepers, even better: the South Coast is your oyster.
Day 1: Sydney to Wollongong (via Royal National Park)
Start your journey in Sydney, entering the lush Royal National Park. Enjoy your choice of bushwalk, lookout or waterfall stop before heading south towards Wollongong. Along the way, stop at the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge for a scenic coastal drive.
Morning: Nature escape in the Royal National Park
Feel your stress melt away as you transition from the city into the leafy Royal National Park, about an hour south of the CBD. Keep it convenient for Day 1 and choose stops with parking close to the main thoroughfare.
My top pick is Pool Flat Picnic Area in Audley — lovely year-round for a swim in Hacking River, rowboat paddle or picnic (with Audley Dance Hall Cafe nearby for coffee). For a more “off grid” experience, check out your first Grand Pacific Drive waterfalls with a stop at National Falls or trail walk to Winifred Falls (2 km return). The latter and nearby South West Arm Pool are popular swimming holes in summer, but require more bush-bashing, so approach with caution.
Tip: The two main entrances are along the along the Princes Highway near Loftus and Waterfall. Park entry costs $12 per vehicle per day – pay at the entrance or with Park’n’Pay.
Midday: Take in the views from Bald Hill Lookout & the Sea Cliff Bridge
Get excited – Bald Hill Lookout is the real starting point of your Grand Pacific Drive adventure! And what a breathtaking preview it is, getting your glimpse of the Sea Cliff Bridge in the distance. Kids can use their binoculars to watch surfers and swimmers at Stanwell Park Beach below and look for whales in the ocean.
If your picnic lunch has lasted this long, this is the perfect place to tuck in while watching hang-gliders soar on the breeze. And if it’s long gone, Flying High Cafe is on hand to supply a quick feed of chips or an ice cream treat.
Tip: Kiosk hours vary seasonally and it closes in bad weather. If it’s not open, there are several trendy cafes on the main street at Stanwell Park.
The Grand Pacific Drive’s second iconic highlight is the 665-metre Sea Cliff Bridge, a spectacular roadway structure curving over the ocean following the Illawarra Escarpment. There’s parking at each end to hop out and have a look, but be warned, it gets busy!
If there’s space, stop at the designated viewing area for photos and a stroll along the footpath (and if you can’t snag one on either end, you can try for a park on your way back north). The walk takes about 15 minutes each way if you want to do the entire length.
If you’re running early (or breezed straight through the RNP to avoid the entry fee), why not stop for a swim at one of the Wollongong Region Rock Pools? Cut right into the rock shelf, they’re generally accessible towards low tide, though it varies for each location, so tap into local knowledge by checking for “popular times” on the Google Maps listing.
Tip: If the tides aren’t right or the weather is too chilly, enjoy the heated indoor-outdoor pool at your hotel instead.
Afternoon: Explore Wollongong North Beach
North Wollongong Beach is a classic spot for a family day out. As well as the year-round patrolled stretch for swimming, there’s adjacent Stuart Park with a fabulous playground (starring an 8.6 m tower and giant tube slides). There’s also a unique All Ages, All Abilities Playground designed for teens and adults with disabilities.
For something different, take a stroll along The Blue Mile, the city’s iconic oceanfront boardwalk, or go for a wildlife-spotting walk along the Puckey’s Estate Nature Reserve boardwalk.
If it’s early enough, enjoy a coffee and beach eats from the 1930s North Beach Kiosk (open until 4pm) or further back at Diggie’s (open until 3 or 4pm), which is under the same ownership with a broader menu. For dinner, takeaway packs from Lagoon Seafood Restaurant let you haul a premium seafood feast back to the comfort of your hotel room, while The Boatshed on top of the surf club is a bit more budget-friendly with $10-$15 kids’ meals.
Stay overnight: Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong
In the city centre and close to Main Beach, the Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong provides a comfortable stay for your first night on the road. Sleeping up to four guests, one- and two-bedroom apartments have a full kitchen (so you can take a picnic lunch on the road tomorrow) and laundry appliances to wash and dry today’s swimmers and towels.
Tip: If you reach Wollongong late, there’s a pizzeria and Asian eatery on the premises. Wollongong Central Shopping Centre is close by if you need to grab any staples.
Day 2: Wollongong to Kiama (via Lake Illawarra)
Wake up to Wollongong, a thriving regional city with a mix of beaches, cafes, and outdoor adventure. On Day 2, you’ll feed the ducks at the Botanic Garden, then follow the coast to kid-friendly Kiama to see the town’s top two natural wonders.
Morning: River kayak tour or SUP on Lake Illawarra
Head south for your choice of water-based experience: a two-hour Aboriginal Cultural Canoeing Experience with Gumaraa or a self-paced SUP adventure on Lake Illawarra, which has calm, sheltered water ideal for beginners.
Reddall Reserve on the lake is home to the dreamy Red Lamp Playspace featuring an 8-metre play tower, in-ground trampolines, ziplines, a ninja park, sensory play space and an accessible carousel. There’s also the fenced Pirate Playground nearby.
Midday: Kiama Blowholes & Coast Walk
Heading further south, you’ll reach the artsy beach town of Kiama. The famous Kiama Blowhole is a must-see, shooting seawater high into the air depending on the tide and swell. Don’t forget to check out the Little Blowhole too.
The Kiama Coast Walk is another iconic landmark, stretching for 20 km from Minnamurra to Gerringong. Don’t worry, you don’t have to tackle the whole thing — just check out the map and choose a segment that appeals to you for a sunset stroll. There are picnic areas and lookouts along the way, perfect for sunset photos and whale watching if you’re visiting Kiama in winter.
If you’d rather cycle, e-bike hire is available from Kiama Cycles, or break out the kids’ folding scooters so they can plough ahead while you enjoy ocean the views.
Tip: If the wind is blowing in the wrong direction for the Blowholes, or you’re running late, try again tomorrow or stop on the way back up to Sydney.
Afternoon: Jamberoo Action Park
Jamberoo Action Park is open seasonally from September to April (inclusive). If this is when you’re visiting, get ready to experience the fun of Australia’s best water parks! Littlies will have a blast on the water playgrounds while big kids (and kids at heart) can brave the themed thrill slides and racers.
If it’s out of season, spend some time splashing in Sunny’s Aquaventure Park at BIG4 Easts Beach instead. You can also check out Kiama’s fabulous beaches or play at Hindmarsh Park, one of the best adventure playgrounds in the Illawarra.
Stay overnight: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park, Kiama
On top of its pristine beachfront location,there’s plenty to do at BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park, including a heated lounge pool and splash park, an indoor games room and multiple playgrounds for different age groups. Rated the best NSW holiday park for families in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards, cabins and villas here are a reliable and comfortable pick, many with a private balcony and barbecue and/or ocean views
Day 3: Kiama to Jervis Bay (via Berry)
Today’s the day to explore the best of Jamberoo and Berry, both charming detours just inland where rolling green hills meet kid-friendly thrills in the treetops (and some seriously epic water slides). The Jervis Bay region is a wildlife haven brimming with scenic white-sand beaches, unique national parks, and laid-back villages that invite you to slow down and explore further.
Morning: Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures & Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
Head inland to explore the rainforest, starting with Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures. Here, you can take in the views out to the Pacific Ocean on the Treetop Walk, brave Australia’s tallest zipline or hunt for fairies in the rainforest.
Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, on the edge of Budderoo National Park, has family-friendly boardwalks to explore: the Lyrebird Loop Walk (30-60 minutes) or Minnamurra Falls Walk (1-2 hours) leading you to trickling waterfalls beneath towering tree canopies. The shaded paths and waterfalls keep temperatures cooler, providing comfortable walking conditions even on warmer days.
Midday: Drive to Berry for lunch and sweet treats
Continue south to Berry, a historic and charming village renowned for its bakeries, quaint cafes and crafts. Rumbling stomachs and sweet tooths will be satisfied by a stop at the Berry Donut Van, famous for its hot cinnamon donuts, or a visit to the Treat Factory & Dairy Bar to stock up on goodies for the drive ahead.
If you need a place to stop and eat before those donuts cool down, go for the groovy Boongaree Rotary Nature Play Park, which has plenty of parking and well-equipped amenities. When you’re ready, rejoin the then rejoin the coastal route towards Jervis Bay.
Afternoon: Take a whale watching or dolphin cruise
The coastline south of Sydney is one of Australia’s top regions for whale watching, especially from May to November when humpback whales migrate. Experienced local operators like Dolphin Watch Cruises and Jervis Bay Wild run family-friendly boat tours for an unforgettable close encounter, as well as dolphin-spotting excursions outside whale season.
Evening: Jervis Bay Stargazing
If your kids are old enough, squeeze in a 90-minute tour of the skies with Jervis Bay Stargazing. Sitting on the beach and gazing skyward, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. The special stargazing spot is so secret, you’ll only find out where you’re going right before your tour, and there’s even a chance you’ll catch a rare but utterly magical biolumisecence event.
Stay overnight: Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach
Enjoy views over one of the whitest sandy beaches in New South Wales at Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach. One of 12 parks across the Shoalhaven region, it has everything you need for a fun-filled coastal family holiday, including a pool, playground, climbing spider park and a tennis court. The Family Suite has a washing machine and dryer, though there’s also a guest laundry if you choose a cabin without them.
Day 4: Jervis Bay to Shellharbour (via Booderee National Park)
Morning: Cycle on the sands of Culburra Beach
Try a totally a unique experience with a fat-tire bike tour of Culburra Beach. It’s just like regular cycling, with some extra padding to help you bounce smoothly over the sand. A local guide will take you up to Crookhaven Heads with history and culture to discover along the way.
Midday: Explore Boodaree National Park & Botanic Garden
Further along the coastline, Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay is an essential stop for curious kids and grown-ups alike. The best place to start is the Botanic Garden – the only one in Australia that’s Aboriginal-owned.
The park’s Traditional Owners, the local Koori people from the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, have been caring for the land for generations and it’s a truly special place to visit. The garden is designed around the Aboriginal use of plants, including edible and medicinal varieties. Head to the Koori Gardens to learn about local culture and technology, while the Green Hut delves into the region’s history.
If you’re still searching for adventure, you’re spoiled for choice, from the stunning Cave Beach to the ruins of Cape St George Lighthouse (a stellar whale-watching with a grisly history sure to fascinate older kids).
Tip: You’ll need to purchase a $20 Park Pass to enter Booderee National Park.
Afternoon: Surf Killalea Beach or snorkel Bass Point Reserve
On your way through, stop off at Killalea Beach (known as ‘The Farm’) in Killalea State Park, declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2009. 250ha of pristine coastal reserve and beaches are now protected for future generations to enjoy, with beautifully landscaped picnic and barbecue areas. Sit and admire the stunning views and watch avid surfers riding the waves. Alternatively, why not hire a board (or take a few lessons with Pines Surfing Academy) and join them?
If you’re not a surfer, consider scuba diving off Bass Point Reserve (including shipwrecks and Bushrangers Bay Marine Reserve) or follow the self-guided Bass Point Indigenous Cultural Walk. Little kids will find Elliot Lake (aka ‘Little Lake’) a good alternative for paddling and learning to snorkel, with crabs and fish to spot underwater.
Stay overnight: NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park
You’ll find a classic Aussie beach holiday vibe at NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park – with some newfangled additions like a wood-fired pizza oven for guest use. However, the true drawcard is the chance to stay metres from the beach and only a quick walk from the Shellharbour Ocean Pool.
Day 5: Shellharbour to Sydney (via Symbio Wildlife Park)
Morning: Yirran muru Aboriginal interpretive playspace
Enjoy breakfast out in Shellharbour and drop by Yirran muru playspace, located in the native gardens beside the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Designed as an interpretive Aboriginal culture experience for children, Yirran miru has won 11 awards in two years since its launch and provides a unique, enriching alternative to your traditional playground. The space represents the seasonal journey of local Aboriginal people across landmarks like like Jubborsay (Lake Illawarra), Merrigong (the Illawarra Escarpment), Gang man gang (Windang Island) and gadhu (ocean).
Midday: Darkes Forest Riding Ranch & Glenbernie Orchard
Take the scenic drive inland to visit Darkes Forest Riding Ranch for a trail ride (7 years and up) or pony ride (for kids 6 and under). Drop by Glenbernie Orchard for a family fruit-picking experience in season, or a stop at the farm store out of season.
For a scenic spot to eat lunch, try Maddens Falls (a quick walk from the orchard car park) or Kellys Falls near Symbio Wildlife Park.
Afternoon: Symbio Wildlife Park
Celebrate the final leg of your Grand Pacific Drive road trip with a visit to Symbio Wildlife Park, where families can meet Australian icons like koalas, kangaroos, and wombats. You’ll also see exotic species such as red pandas and meerkats, with lots of educational opportunities. There’s also a splash park here for one last water park hurrah before hitting the road back to Sydney.
Rainy day activities on the Grand Pacific Drive
Run into a rainy day? No problem – here are some great indoor activities to swap into your itinerary.
Wollongong region:
- Have a cosy cafe meal at Saltie Dog Coffee & Crepes (multiple locations)
- Check out Wollongong Art Gallery – one of the largest regional galleries Down Under
- Learning is fun and hands-on UOW’s Science Space and Early Start Discovery Centre
- Step back in time at the Junior Game Retro Arcade
- Burn off some energy at Hangdog Indoor Climbing Centre
- Enjoy Korean food and adorable indoor playgrounds at Chouchoubebe Adventure (multiple locations)
Shellharbour Region:
- Combine lunch or dinner at Dapto Leagues Club with a play at on-site Tabatinga Fun Centre
- Kids can see, touch and even climb into the cockpit of real aircraft at HARS Aviation Museum
- Challenge the family to a game of laser tag at C1 Speed or Revolution Laser Arena
Kiama Region:
- Visit the Old Fire Station, a community art centre home to Daisy the Decorated Dairy Cow
- Browse Kiama’s boutiques, including the historic Collins Street terraces and The Collective Beat indoor market
Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay Region:
- Follow the Children’s Treasure Hunt at Jervis Bay Maritime Museum & Gallery
- Catch a flick at the quaint Huskisson Pictures – tickets are just $12; an extra $10.50 scores you popcorn, soft drink and a choc top.
More Grand Pacific Drive FAQs
Crime and safety
The Grand Pacific Drive is generally safe for families, but there has been a reported uptick in car theft and property crime in the Wollongong region. Follow common-sense precautions like always locking your vehicle when you’re away, and keeping valuables with you (or out of sight). To be on the safe side, you may want to avoid leaving your car in public car parks overnight (especially if they’re remote, unlit and lack CCTV).
One brilliant feature of the MG HS is the iSMART connectivity. This lifesaving app not only remembers where you parked, but also monitors whether your car is locked, windows are closed, doors are open, fuel levels and more. You can remote activate the AC or seat heating before you get in, and lock/unlock from a distance (eg. if one of the kids needs to get something from the car). No more worries about anyone forgetting to lock up again!
What to pack for the Grand Pacific Drive
- For the beach: Swimwear, sun protection (all of the 5 S’s), beach towels and blanket, beach toys, plastic bags for wet togs and towels
- For picnics and rest stops: Picnic blanket, picnic basket, cooler and ice or ice bricks, refillable water bottles
- For bushwalks: Sturdy shoes, hats, a backpack or two, mozzie spray
- Clothing for layering: The South Coast can be colder than Sydney during winter, especially after sunset and factoring in ocean breezes. Layers are ideal to adapt throughout the day without needing a full outfit change.
- Kids’ scooters: There are some family bike hire options, but folding scooters are compact and brilliant for keeping kids entertained on walks, at rest stops, and at holiday parks.
- For littlies: Travel pram, baby carrier (for bushwalks etc), nappy bag (if needed), travel potty (great for emergencies even after kids are toilet trained), baby food or formula
- Activities for the car: Colouring books, audio books, etc. For tips on keeping kids entertained, see our family road trip guide.
- Tech: Charge cables, portable power banks, phone car mount for nav if needed, headphones for the kids
- Extras: A first-aid kit, snacks, drinking water (especially before heading to national parks), binoculars for whale-watching and lookouts
For more, check out these expert road trip packing tips.
This article is made possible by MG Motor Australia. Click here to book a test drive of the MG HS.
Opening image: The scenic Grand Pacific Coast drive along Sea Cliff Bridge at Clifton. © Destination NSW
