Coastal-to-Alpine: Sydney to Phillip Island via Eden, Cooma, Bombala & Orbost — 3-Day 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.

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.

6:30 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.

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 → Bombala → Cooma → Orbost → Phillip Island (drive via Monaro Highway & Princes Highway)
Eden → Bombala → Cooma → Orbost → Phillip Island (drive via Monaro Highway & Princes Highway) · Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Eden inland route: Eden to Phillip Island via Cooma, Bombala and Orbost

7:00 AM:

Start with coffee and a light breakfast at Eden Bakery & Cafe, then take a quick walk to the Eden Killer Whale Museum forecourt for seaside views and to orient yourself before the inland drive.

7:45 AM:

Depart Eden heading northwest on the Princes Highway; stop for photos and a short stretch at the Ben Boyd National Park lookout near the town to capture morning light on the coast.

9:00 AM:

Pull into Bombala for a mid-morning break-explore the riverside park, visit the historic town centre and grab a refill or morning snack at Bombala Café & Gallery.

10:15 AM:

Continue up the Monaro Plain toward Cooma; just outside Bombala, take a scenic detour onto a quiet country lane to spot grazing sheep and photogenic farm scenery typical of the region.

11:15 AM:

Arrive in Cooma and stretch your legs with a stroll through the town centre; enjoy brunch or a late-morning bite at The Royal Hotel Cooma or grab coffee and pastries at JPC Bakery & Cafe.

12:00 PM:

Before leaving Cooma, make a brief stop at the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme visitor lookout (if time allows) to learn about the region's engineering history and take sweeping valley photos.

12:30 PM:

Leave the Snowy Mountains lookout and drive south toward Bredbo for a relaxed country lunch at The Bredbo Inn, sampling their hearty pub menu while soaking up rural Monaro views.

1:30 PM:

Continue toward Cooma and stop at Cooma Rotary Park for a short walk along the riverbank to stretch legs and enjoy birdlife before the longer drive east to the coast.

2:15 PM:

Head southeast to Bombala's outskirts and take a scenic country lane detour to photograph rolling sheep paddocks and the classic stone bridges that highlight the region's pastoral charm.

3:00 PM:

Refuel in Bombala with coffee and a slice at Bombala Café & Gallery, then visit the nearby Bombala River reserve for a short riverside stroll and possible platypus-spotting at dusk.

3:45 PM:

Drive across the border into Victoria toward Orbost, pausing at roadside lookouts for sweeping views of the farmlands and to photograph the changing light over the Monaro Plain.

5:00 PM:

Arrive in Orbost; take a wander along the Snowy River foreshore and consider an early dinner at The Orbost Club Hotel, which offers classic pub fare and local produce before the final leg to Phillip Island.

6:15 PM:

Depart Orbost for the drive down the Princes Highway toward Phillip Island, timing the trip to arrive in the evening; stop briefly at a roadside lookout if the light is still good for coastal photos.

8:30 PM:

If you arrive on Phillip Island this evening, check in to your accommodation-consider a farmstay near San Remo or a seaside B&B-and unwind with a nightcap while planning the island's highlights for tomorrow.

6:45 PM:

Stretch your legs with a gentle riverside stroll along the Snowy River foreshore in Orbost, then grab a craft beer or casual meal at The Orbost Club Hotel if you didn't dine earlier.

7:30 PM:

Resume the drive toward Phillip Island on the Princes Highway; pause at a roadside lookout for a twilight photo of the coastal plain as the sun drops behind the distant hills.

9:00 PM:

Arrive in the San Remo / Phillip Island area and check in to your accommodation - consider a farmstay near San Remo for a rural evening or a seaside B&B for ocean views.

9:30 PM:

If you're staying on a farmstay, take a short after-dark walk around the property to listen for native birds and frogs; otherwise, enjoy a nightcap at your B&B and plan tomorrow's island highlights.

10:00 PM:

Unwind with a late snack or local wine on your accommodation's porch; if you prefer a coastal option, drive a few minutes to San Remo Wharf for a moonlit view of the fishing fleet and Bass Strait (check safety and parking).

Find Hotels in Eden → Bombala → Cooma → Orbost → Phillip Island (drive via Monaro Highway & Princes Highway)

Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Bundeena lookout (Royal National Park)Free
Gotham Baker (breakfast, coffee & avocado toast)$20
Wedding Cake Rock (viewing/walk)Free
Wattamolla Beach picnic area (park entry/parking)Free
Grand Pacific Drive & Sea Cliff Bridge (walk & photos)Free
The Hungry Monkey (coffee)$6
Kiama Blowhole (viewing)Free
Kiama Pavilion Kiosk (fish & chips)$18
The Gerringong Hotel (lunch/dinner)$30
Yum Yum Gelato (gelato)$6
Huskisson Beach Motel (per-person nightly share estimate)$60
Paperbark Camp (glamping per-person estimate)$160
Hyams Beach (swim & beach access)Free
The Husky Pub (light bites / iced coffee / drinks)$15
Jervis Bay wildlife cruise (dolphin/whale cruise, per person typical)$65
Jervis Bay Wild sea-kayak tour (per person typical)$95
Jervis Bay Maritime Museum (entry/donation)Free
Stonegrill Huskisson (meal / craft beer)$40
Nelsons on the Beach (seaside dinner)$45
Fish Face (seafood dinner)$35
The Huskisson Hotel (nightcap / live music)$12
Booderee National Park (park entry for non-local vehicles)$16
Café Zest (dessert / coffee)$8
The Boathouse Cafe, Batemans Bay (breakfast takeaway)$15
Mogo Wildlife Park (entry & experiences)$32
Narooma waterfront & Bar Rock (walk & photos)Free
Narooma Charters (seal/boat tour typical per person)$65
Sage on the Wharf (brunch / oysters)$30
Tathra Wharf (stroll)Free
Tathra Hotel (lunch/dinner)$30
Mimosa Rocks National Park (park access / walks)Free
Tathra SUP Hire (stand-up paddleboard per person hire)$40
Bunga Beach (beach stroll)Free
Morton National Park lookouts (scenic stop)Free
The Wharf Restaurant (dinner at Narooma)$40
Narooma Boardwalk & Glasshouse Rocks (walk & viewing)Free
The Peninsula Restaurant & Bar (nightcap/dessert)$20
Raglan Street Beach (evening stroll)Free
Eden Bakery & Cafe (breakfast)$12
Eden Killer Whale Museum (exterior visit / museum entry if chosen)$12
Ben Boyd National Park lookout (photo stop)Free
Bombala Café & Gallery (coffee / snack)$10
The Royal Hotel Cooma (brunch / meal)$25
Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme lookout (visitor viewing)Free
The Bredbo Inn (country pub lunch)$25
Cooma Rotary Park (short walk)Free
Bombala River reserve (riverside stroll / platypus-spotting)Free
Orbost Snowy River foreshore (walk & photos)Free
The Orbost Club Hotel (dinner / craft beer)$30
San Remo / Phillip Island farmstay (per-person estimate)$80
San Remo Wharf (moonlit viewing / stroll)Free
Estimated Total (per person)$1866
0