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28 Sep 2025
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New South Wales to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

NSW to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure from the bustling city of Sydney in New South Wales to the vibrant metropolis of Melbourne in Victoria. This journey takes you through some of Australia's most picturesque coastal towns and natural wonders. Start by exploring Sydney’s iconic landmarks and lively atmosphere before heading south to the scenic town of Kiama, famous for its dramatic Blowhole and beautiful beaches. Continue your journey to the pristine shores of Jervis Bay, where dazzling white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters await, making it a haven for relaxation and wildlife spotting.

Drive further south to Batemans Bay, renowned for fresh seafood and tranquil waterways, then on to the historic whaling town of Eden, where dramatic coastal scenery and whale watching opportunities abound. Cross into Victoria to discover Lakes Entrance, a gateway to the unique waterways of the Gippsland Lakes. Head on to Wilson’s Promontory National Park, with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, and then enjoy the natural and family-friendly attractions of Phillip Island. Conclude your road trip in Melbourne, a city that promises a vibrant mix of culture, art, cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.


Recommended Activities

  • Sydney offers iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, vibrant cultural experiences, beautiful beaches, world-class dining, and a bustling cosmopolitan atmosphere.
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  • Kiama is famous for its spectacular Blowhole, stunning coastal views, peaceful beaches, and charming seaside town atmosphere — perfect for relaxation and nature walks.
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  • Jervis Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, excellent opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, and access to beautiful national parks.
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    Batemans Bay

    Batemans Bay is known for its laid-back coastal lifestyle, access to fresh local seafood, scenic waterways ideal for kayaking and fishing, and nearby national parks perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
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  • Eden is a historic whaling town celebrated for its breathtaking coastal scenery, vibrant marine life including seasonal whale watching, and the fascinating Eden Killer Whale Museum.
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    Lakes Entrance

    Lakes Entrance boasts a unique network of inland waterways, beautiful beaches, opportunities for boating and fishing, and scenic boardwalks along the Gippsland Lakes.
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    Wilson's Promontory

    Wilson's Promontory is renowned for its dramatic granite mountains, pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and excellent hiking opportunities in its protected national park setting.
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    Phillip Island

    Phillip Island is famous for its nightly Penguin Parade, stunning coastal scenery, family-friendly attractions, and opportunities to spot Australian wildlife like koalas and seals.
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  • Melbourne captivates visitors with its multicultural culinary scene, vibrant arts and music, dynamic shopping precincts, fascinating laneways, and rich sporting heritage.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Boathouse Palm Beach

    3.5

    The Boathouse Palm Beach

    A picturesque café set on the water’s edge north of Sydney, combining fresh local produce, stunning views, and a laid-back beachy atmosphere.
    3.5
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    The Hungry Monkey

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Hungry Monkey

    A quirky eatery in Kiama renowned for its gourmet burgers, unique breakfasts, and retro surf-inspired decor.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    The Gunyah Restaurant at Paperbark Camp

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Gunyah Restaurant at Paperbark Camp

    Nestled in the treetops near Jervis Bay, this eco-friendly restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with native ingredients in a unique bush setting.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Wheelers Seafood Restaurant

    4.5
    $$$$

    Wheelers Seafood Restaurant

    Located in Pambula near Eden, famous for fresh oysters grown onsite, seasonal seafood, and a relaxing coastal vibe.
    4.5
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    Sardine Eatery + Bar

    4.8

    Sardine Eatery + Bar

    Situated at Paynesville near Lakes Entrance, this acclaimed small-plates restaurant showcases Gippsland’s seafood in creative ways with views over the water.
    4.8
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Hotels

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    Paperbark Camp

    4.7

    Paperbark Camp

    Experience luxury glamping in safari-style tents nestled among the trees near Jervis Bay, offering an immersive nature retreat with eco-friendly touches.
    4.7
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    The Hydro Majestic Hotel

    4.1

    The Hydro Majestic Hotel

    A lavish historic hotel perched on a ridge in the Blue Mountains with stunning escarpment views, Art Deco style, and a fascinating heritage.
    4.1
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    The Whale Motor Inn

    4.5

    The Whale Motor Inn

    A modern boutique inn in Narooma near Batemans Bay, featuring rooms with panoramic ocean views and quirky coastal artwork.
    4.5
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    Metung Hot Springs

    4.4

    Metung Hot Springs

    Recently established eco-cabins and glamping tents adjacent to natural hot springs near Lakes Entrance for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay.
    4.4
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    The Island Accommodation

    4.1

    The Island Accommodation

    A contemporary hostel-hotel hybrid on Phillip Island with rooftop decks, bold design, and a communal vibe ideal for social travelers.
    4.1
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Wanderer Festival 2025

    Wanderer Festival 2025

    The event will take place at Pambula Beach in Pambula Beach.
    Map IconPambula Beach in Pambula Beach (72.1 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Oct 2025
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    Psychic Medium John Edward

    Psychic Medium John Edward

    Approximate Run Times: Doors - 6:00pm Start - 7:00pm Finish - 9:00pm John Edward is one of the world's most sought after psychic mediums, author of serval critically acclaimed New York Times best sellers and star of TV's "Crossing Over With John Edwa...
    Map IconErindale Theatre in Wanniassa (89.79 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Nov 2025
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    Two Psychics And A Medium

    Two Psychics And A Medium

    VIP Times: Doors Open to theatre: 5.30pm VIP Meet and Greet and Photo Opp – to 6.00pm 6.00pm Pre-Show Commences 6.40pm Pre-Show Ends General Doors: 6:40pm Start: 7:00pm Intermission 8:40pm Main Act: 9:00pm Finish: 10:30pm - 11:00pm Merchandise Signin...
    Map IconErindale Theatre in Wanniassa (89.79 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Mar 2026
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    Frenzal Rhomb - ‘A Man’s (Still) Not a Camel’ 25th Anniversary Tour

    Frenzal Rhomb - ‘A Man’s (Still) Not a Camel’ 25th Anniversary Tour

    The event will take place at The Pavilion Kiama in Kiama.
    Map IconThe Pavilion Kiama in Kiama (95.22 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Oct 2025
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    The Angels - Echoes of Thunder

    The Angels - Echoes of Thunder

    The event will take place at The Pavilion Kiama in Kiama.
    Map IconThe Pavilion Kiama in Kiama (95.22 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Dec 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Event

    Event

    The event will take place at Manuka Oval in Griffith.
    Map IconManuka Oval in Griffith (96.03 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Oct 2025
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    5MONEYM

    5MONEYM

    The event will take place at Manuka Oval in Griffith.
    Map IconManuka Oval in Griffith (96.03 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Oct 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    I have marked way to many sites on Google maps to possibly do in 1 week. We want to spend a couple days in Melbourne, also go from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostols, then take ...

    Road trip from Sydney to Melbourne- campervan or hotels along ...

    I have marked way to many sites on Google maps to possibly do in 1 week. We want to spend a couple days in Melbourne, also go from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostols, then take ...

    /r/AustraliaTravel
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi all, My gf and I are planning on doing a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne via the NSW South Coast in January. We have three full days, for the

    Suggestions for Sydney - Melbourne Road Trip via NSW Coast

    Hi all, My gf and I are planning on doing a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne via the NSW South Coast in January. We have three full days, for the

    /r/australia
  • Reddit Icon

    Planning to head over to Australia for the first time ever at the end of this year and got our minds into doing a road trip to travel from Melbourne

    Road trip - Melbourne to Sydney itinerary feedback

    Planning to head over to Australia for the first time ever at the end of this year and got our minds into doing a road trip to travel from Melbourne

    /r/AustraliaTravel
  • Reddit Icon

    17 votes, 20 comments. Has anyone driven to Melbourne from Sydney going the coastal route? How did it go, what was it like? How do I plan to go that

    Sydney to Melbourne - Coastal drive

    17 votes, 20 comments. Has anyone driven to Melbourne from Sydney going the coastal route? How did it go, what was it like? How do I plan to go that

    /r/sydney
  • Reddit Icon

    Hello, does anyone know any fun activities/stops on the drive from Melbourne to Sydney?

    Fun stops on the Melbourne->Sydney drive?

    Hello, does anyone know any fun activities/stops on the drive from Melbourne to Sydney?

    /r/melbourne

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    ICEHOUSE - Great Southern Land

    ICEHOUSE - Great Southern Land

    An iconic Aussie anthem that captures the vastness and spirit of Australia; perfect for a road trip across the country.
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    Vance Joy - Riptide

    Vance Joy - Riptide

    A catchy, upbeat tune with a laid-back vibe reminiscent of coastal drives and summer adventures.
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    Men At Work - Down Under

    Men At Work - Down Under

    A classic Australian song that celebrates the nation’s culture and landscapes – a road trip essential.
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    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    A classic hit about freedom and travel, embodying the spirit of an open road journey.
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    JAY-Z - Holy Grail

    JAY-Z - Holy Grail

    An energetic rock tune with an anthemic chorus, great for boosting excitement on long stretches.
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    A joyful, uplifting track that fits the wonder of new places and exciting road trip discoveries.
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    Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane

    Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane

    Dreamy and mellow, this song’s smooth vibes match the feeling of cruising down scenic highways.
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    Empire of the Sun - Walking On A Dream

    Empire of the Sun - Walking On A Dream

    This modern classic from Australian duo Empire of the Sun gives a sense of anticipation and wonder.
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    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    Talking Heads - Road to Nowhere

    With its fun, upbeat melody, it’s a playful celebration of the journey itself.
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  • Music Icon

    Crowded House - Weather With You

    Crowded House - Weather With You

    A breezy, sing-along song about traveling and making memories, ideal for a road trip playlist.
    Listen on Spotify
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