Coastal Highlights: Royal National Park to Phillip Island — 3-Day Sydney-to-Melbourne Road Trip (Mar 15–17, 2026)

Royal National Park → Kiama → Jervis Bay / Huskisson · Sunday, March 15, 2026

Sydney to Jervis Bay via Royal National Park and Kiama Blowhole

7:00 AM:

Begin with a scenic drive into Royal National Park, stopping at the Bundeena lookout for coastal photos and a short stroll along the cliff-top path.

8:00 AM:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Gotham Baker in Bundeena (coffee and avocado toast recommended) before heading to the next viewpoint.

8:45 AM:

Take the short walk to Wedding Cake Rock for dramatic white sandstone views and ocean panoramas (note: respect any safety closures and viewing barriers).

9:30 AM:

Drive north through the park toward the coastal road, pausing at the Wattamolla Beach picnic area to stretch legs and admire the lagoon and waterfall.

10:15 AM:

Continue along the Grand Pacific Drive, crossing the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge with a quick stop to walk the bridge and take photos of the exposed coastline.

11:00 AM:

Arrive in Kiama for a coffee at The Hungry Monkey then stroll to the Kiama Blowhole to catch the sea spray and explore the nearby rock platforms.

11:45 AM:

Grab an early lunch or light bites at The Gerringong Hotel or sample fish and chips from Kiama Pavilion Kiosk before continuing toward Jervis Bay.

12:30 PM:

Drive toward Jervis Bay and stop at Gerringong for a quick walk along the foreshore and a gelato from Yum Yum Gelato to refresh before continuing south.

1:15 PM:

Arrive in Jervis Bay / Huskisson and check in at your accommodation - consider a beachfront stay at Huskisson Beach Motel or a charming option like Paperbark Camp (nearby) if you prefer a nature-focused stay.

2:00 PM:

Take a relaxed afternoon on Hyams Beach to admire its famously white sand and swim; grab light bites or an iced coffee at The Husky Pub afterward.

3:00 PM:

Join an afternoon wildlife cruise from Huskisson Wharf to spot dolphins and (seasonally) migrating whales, or opt for a guided sea-kayak tour with Jervis Bay Wild for a closer coastal experience.

4:30 PM:

Return to Huskisson and wander the village shops and galleries, stopping by Jervis Bay Maritime Museum for a quick local-history fix or a craft beer at Stonegrill Huskisson.

5:30 PM:

Head to Nelsons on the Beach or Fish Face for a seaside dinner focusing on fresh local seafood as the sun begins to set over the bay.

7:00 PM:

After dinner, take an easy evening stroll along Huskisson Beach or relax at your accommodation; consider a nightcap at The Huskisson Hotel if you're in the mood for live music or atmosphere.

8:30 PM:

If the night is clear, drive a short way to Booderee National Park's nearby dark-sky areas for stargazing; bring a blanket and a thermos from The Husky Pub to enjoy the southern constellations.

9:30 PM:

Return to Huskisson for a relaxed dessert or late coffee at Café Zest (check opening hours) or sample local craft beers at Stonegrill Huskisson while soaking up the night ambience.

10:30 PM:

Head back to your accommodation-unwind on the deck at Huskisson Beach Motel or sit by a campfire if staying at Paperbark Camp, listening to waves and preparing for the next day's drive.

Find Hotels in Royal National Park → Kiama → Jervis Bay / Huskisson
Royal National Park → Kiama → Jervis Bay / Huskisson → Batemans Bay → Narooma → Mimosa Rocks National Park (near Tathra)
Batemans Bay → Narooma → Mimosa Rocks National Park (near Tathra) · Monday, March 16, 2026

South Coast gems: Batemans Bay to Mimosa Rocks National Park

6:30 AM:

Coffee and a quick breakfast at The Boathouse Cafe, Batemans Bay before setting off; grab a takeaway sandwich or warm pastry to eat at scenic stops along the coast.

7:15 AM:

Drive the Princes Highway south toward Narooma with a short detour to stretch legs at Mogo Wildlife Park-spot koalas and feed-friendly kangaroos (check opening times).

8:30 AM:

Arrive in Narooma and wander the waterfront boardwalk; stop for photos at Bar Rock and enjoy morning light on the basalt formations.

9:00 AM:

Take a short wildlife cruise or glass-bottom boat with Narooma Charters to view seals and marine life near Montague Island from the bay (book ahead for spots).

10:30 AM:

Refuel with late-morning snacks or brunch at Sage on the Wharf-try local oysters or their seasonal breakfast dishes while overlooking Wagonga Inlet.

11:15 AM:

Drive toward Tathra and stop at the Tathra Wharf for a stroll along the restored timber wharf and enjoy coastal views; excellent spot for photos and a short break.

11:45 AM:

Continue south toward Mimosa Rocks National Park, pulling over at a scenic turnout for a short walk among the headlands or a quick swim if the day is warm.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Tathra Hotel (or Tathra Wharf Cafe if you prefer waterfront seating), sampling fresh local prawns or a grilled fish special before heading on.

1:30 PM:

Take a relaxed walk along the headlands at Mimosa Rocks National Park-follow the short coastal track to discover rock pools and hidden beaches, keeping an eye out for seabirds and wallabies.

2:15 PM:

Drive a short distance to Tathra Beach for a swim or to try stand-up paddleboarding with Tathra SUP Hire, enjoying calm waters and coastal views.

3:15 PM:

Stop at Bunga Beach for a quieter beach stroll and a photo-op among coastal scrub and dramatic surf; this is a great spot to relax and stretch legs.

4:00 PM:

Head back toward Narooma and pause at Morton National Park lookouts (via local scenic turnouts) for sweeping views across the coastline and chance to catch late-afternoon light for photos.

5:00 PM:

Arrive in Narooma township; grab an early dinner at Sage on the Wharf or try the seafood at The Wharf Restaurant while watching the inlet calm as the sun lowers.

6:30 PM:

If staying nearby, take an evening stroll along the Narooma Boardwalk to spot seals on the rocks at low tide and soak up the sunset reflections over Wagonga Inlet.

8:00 PM:

Wind down with a nightcap or dessert at The Peninsula Restaurant & Bar (check local opening hours) or relax at your accommodation-consider a coastal cottage or a country B&B near Tathra for a restful night.

5:30 PM:

Walk the Narooma Boardwalk as golden hour begins, pausing at the Glasshouse Rocks lookout for photos and to watch seals bobbing near the inlet.

6:15 PM:

Dine at Sage on the Wharf or The Wharf Restaurant for fresh local seafood while enjoying waterside views as the light softens over Wagonga Inlet.

7:30 PM:

Take a short drive to the quiet sands of Raglan Street Beach for a post-dinner stroll and to listen to the surf; bring a light jacket as coastal evenings can be cool.

8:15 PM:

Head to The Peninsula Restaurant & Bar (if open) or your accommodation's lounge for a relaxed nightcap and local wine or craft beer selection.

9:00 PM:

If the sky is clear, drive a few minutes to a nearby low-light spot near Mimosa Rocks National Park for stargazing; spread a blanket and look for the Southern Cross and Milky Way.

9:45 PM:

Return to your accommodation-consider a cozy coastal cottage or a B&B in Tathra-and unwind with a warm beverage, planning the next day's drive further south.

Find Hotels in Batemans Bay → Narooma → Mimosa Rocks National Park (near Tathra)
Batemans Bay → Narooma → Mimosa Rocks National Park (near Tathra) → Eden → Mallacoota → Lakes Entrance → Phillip Island (optional extension)
Eden → Mallacoota → Lakes Entrance → Phillip Island (optional extension) · Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Coastal push into Victoria: Eden to Phillip Island option (via Mallacoota/Lakes Entrance)

6:30 AM:

Fuel up with breakfast and takeaway coffee at Eden Fishermen's Club Café, then take a short walk to Twofold Bay lookout to watch morning light on the harbour and fishing boats.

7:15 AM:

Drive south along the Princes Highway; pause at Boydtown Beach for a brisk coastal walk and photos of the historic Boyd's Tower from the shoreline.

8:00 AM:

Stop at Ben Boyd National Park picnic area for a quick nature stretch and to scan the headlands for migrating whales (seasonal) or local birdlife.

8:45 AM:

Continue toward Mallacoota with a scenic pull-over at a roadside lookout to admire sweeping coastal heath and take short photos breaks.

10:15 AM:

Arrive in Mallacoota and explore the waterfront; grab fresh pastries and coffee at Seawild Café before a stroll along the inlet boardwalk.

11:00 AM:

Take a short scenic detour to Gipsy Point (if time allows) for calm estuary views and a peaceful picnic spot, or visit the Mallacoota Visitor Information Centre for local trail suggestions.

11:45 AM:

Head back on the road toward Lakes Entrance, stopping at a roadside bakery such as Bemm River Bakery if you prefer a late-morning snack before the afternoon drive.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch at Mallacoota Inlet, picking up fresh sandwiches and pastries from Seawild Café or a salmon roll from a local deli, then stroll the boardwalk for estuary views.

1:15 PM:

Drive south toward Bemm River, stopping for coffee and a sweet treat at Bemm River Bakery before continuing along the scenic coastal route.

2:00 PM:

Take a short nature walk at Cape Conran Coastal Park (if open) to stretch your legs among coastal heath and look for seabirds and wildflowers along the headlands.

3:00 PM:

Pause in Lakes Entrance for panoramic views from the Lakes Entrance lookout and a late-afternoon stroll along the timber footbridge near the channel.

3:45 PM:

Refuel with an early seafood snack or coffee at The Boathouse Cafe, Lakes Entrance, sampling local prawns or a fish taco while watching boats in the lakes.

4:30 PM:

Continue the drive west toward the Gippsland Lakes, taking a scenic detour to the Ninety Mile Beach access points for dramatic long-beach views and a chance to dip your toes in the surf.

5:30 PM:

If time allows and you're continuing to Phillip Island over the next day, check into a Lakes Entrance or nearby coastal accommodation such as Ramada Resort by Wyndham Lakes Entrance or a country B&B to rest before the final leg.

6:15 PM:

Dine at The Esplanade Hotel, Lakes Entrance or sample waterfront seafood at The Galleon on the Esplanade, enjoying local produce as the sun lowers over the lakes.

7:30 PM:

Take a gentle evening stroll along Suttons Beach or the Lakes Entrance foreshore to watch the changing light, then pick up a local wine or craft beer for a relaxed night in.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Esplanade Hotel, Lakes Entrance, sampling their local seafood specials and watching boats bob on the water as the light fades.

9:15 PM:

Take a short post-dinner stroll along Suttons Beach or the Lakes Entrance foreshore to listen to the surf and enjoy the cooling coastal breeze.

9:45 PM:

Stop by The Galleon on the Esplanade bar for a nightcap-try a local Gippsland wine or craft beer while soaking up low-key harbour views.

10:30 PM:

If skies are clear, drive a few minutes to a low-light spot near Ninety Mile Beach access points to stargaze and look for the Southern Cross; spread a blanket and savor the quiet coastline.

11:15 PM:

Return to your accommodation (consider Ramada Resort by Wyndham Lakes Entrance or a nearby B&B) to unwind, lay out plans for the final leg to Phillip Island, and rest for the drive ahead.

Find Hotels in Eden → Mallacoota → Lakes Entrance → Phillip Island (optional extension)

Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Bundeena lookout (Royal National Park)Free
Gotham Baker (breakfast: coffee + avocado toast)$18
Wedding Cake Rock (walk/viewing)Free
Wattamolla Beach (picnic area)Free
Grand Pacific Drive / Sea Cliff Bridge (walk & photos)Free
The Hungry Monkey (coffee)$5
Kiama BlowholeFree
Lunch at The Gerringong Hotel (typical meal)$25
Kiama Pavilion Kiosk (fish & chips)$15
Yum Yum Gelato (gelato)$6
Huskisson Beach Motel (per person, per night estimate)$75
Paperbark Camp (nature glamping per person, per night estimate)$160
Hyams Beach (swim & beach time)Free
The Husky Pub (light bites / iced coffee)$12
Wildlife cruise from Huskisson Wharf (dolphin/whale cruise)$60
Jervis Bay Wild sea-kayak tour$95
Jervis Bay Maritime Museum$5
Stonegrill Huskisson (craft beer / casual meal)$20
Nelsons on the Beach (seafood dinner average)$40
Fish Face (seafood dinner average)$35
The Huskisson Hotel (nightcap/drinks)$12
Booderee National Park (entry / vehicle fee)$11
Café Zest (dessert/coffee)$8
The Boathouse Cafe, Batemans Bay (breakfast takeaway)$12
Mogo Wildlife Park (entry)$24
Narooma waterfront / Bar Rock (walk & photos)Free
Narooma Charters (wildlife / seal cruise)$65
Sage on the Wharf (brunch / oysters)$30
Tathra Wharf (stroll)Free
Mimosa Rocks National Park (walking / beach access)Free
Tathra Hotel / Tathra Wharf Cafe (lunch)$25
Tathra SUP Hire (stand-up paddleboarding)$45
Bunga Beach (beach stroll)Free
Morton National Park lookouts (scenic stop)Free
The Wharf Restaurant (dinner, Narooma)$40
Narooma Boardwalk (evening stroll & seal spotting)Free
Raglan Street Beach (post-dinner stroll)Free
The Peninsula Restaurant & Bar (nightcap/dessert)$15
Eden Fishermen's Club Café (breakfast)$12
Twofold Bay lookout (viewing)Free
Boydtown Beach / Boyd's Tower (walk & photos)Free
Ben Boyd National Park (picnic / wildlife viewing)Free
Mallacoota Seawild Café (pastries + coffee)$10
Gipsy Point (estuary picnic spot)Free
Bemm River Bakery (snack)$8
Mallacoota Inlet picnic (self-catered)$12
Cape Conran Coastal Park (short walk)Free
Lakes Entrance lookout & timber footbridge (viewing)Free
The Boathouse Cafe, Lakes Entrance (snack/coffee)$12
Ninety Mile Beach (access & beach time)Free
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Lakes Entrance (per person, per night estimate)$90
The Esplanade Hotel, Lakes Entrance (dinner)$35
The Galleon on the Esplanade (nightcap)$12
Estimated Total (per person)$247
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