5-Day Scenic Road Trip from Sydney to Melbourne via the Coastal Route

Day 1: Sydney Exploration

Sydney, Australia on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this beloved Sydney café known for its rustic Australian dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House to learn about its history and architecture; tours typically last an hour and showcase backstage areas.
AUD42, 1h

11:00am

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy a relaxing walk in this stunning garden offering great views of Sydney Harbour and a peaceful natural setting.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Fish Market Sydney

Savour fresh seafood at the iconic Sydney Fish Market, which offers a variety of options including grilled fish, oysters, and sushi.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Kiama (Approx. 2 hours)

Begin your road trip heading south to the coastal town of Kiama.
Fuel costs only, 2h

4:15pm

Visit Kiama Blowhole

Witness the powerful natural blowhole which shoots sea water high into the air, especially spectacular during high tide.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Hungry Monkey

Enjoy a casual dinner featuring locally sourced produce and delicious seafood dishes.
AUD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Coastal Charm

Kiama, Australia on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kiama Coffee Traders

Fuel up with great coffee and light breakfast options featuring fresh local ingredients.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Jervis Bay (Approx. 1 hour)

Enjoy scenic coastal views on your drive to Jervis Bay, famed for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Fuel costs only, 1h

10:30am

Hyams Beach visit

Spend the morning at Hyams Beach, known for having some of the whitest sand in the world and great swimming conditions.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Huskisson

Enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine with seafood and vegetarian options in this charming seaside town.
AUD45, 1h

2:00pm

Booderee National Park Botanic Gardens

Explore indigenous flora in the beautiful botanic gardens inside this national park; open from 9am to 5pm.
AUD15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Optional dolphin and wildlife cruise

Take a late afternoon cruise to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds (check times with local operators).
AUD70, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bay Villa

Relax with a sunset dinner featuring fresh local seafood in a casual waterfront setting.
AUD55, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nature & History

Jervis Bay, Australia on May 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Paper Daisy

Enjoy a gourmet breakfast with excellent coffee and fresh local produce.
AUD30, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Batemans Bay (Approx. 2 hours)

Travel south along the coast to Batemans Bay, known for its river estuary and coastal charm.
Fuel costs only, 2h

11:15am

Walk in Murramarang National Park

Explore scenic coastal trails and spot local wildlife including kangaroos on the beach.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Rick Stein’s Restaurant

Savour seafood specialties from world-famous chef Rick Stein in this stylish setting overlooking the water.
AUD60, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Clyde River National Park

Enjoy riverside walks and photography opportunities in this beautiful natural reserve.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Bulls Restaurant

End the day with modern Australian cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients in Batemans Bay.
AUD55, 1h30m
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Day 4: Scenic Drive

Batemans Bay to Melbourne, Australia on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Café 247

Grab a wholesome breakfast to energize for a longer driving day ahead.
AUD25, 1h

8:00am

Drive along Princes Highway south towards Melbourne

Enjoy the scenic coastal and forest landscapes as you head towards Melbourne with stops for coffee and photos.
Fuel costs only, 6h total with breaks

1:30pm

Lunch Stop at Lakes Entrance

Refresh with seafood or light meals at a local café near the Gippsland Lakes.
AUD40, 1h

7:00pm

Arrive and Dinner at Chin Chin

Celebrate arrival in Melbourne with a vibrant dinner at one of the city’s most popular Asian fusion restaurants.
AUD65, 1h30m
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Day 5: Melbourne Highlights

Melbourne, Australia on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

A Melbourne favourite, this café offers creative breakfast dishes and excellent coffee.
AUD30, 1h

9:30am

Federation Square and ACMI Visit

Explore Melbourne’s cultural heart with a visit to Federation Square and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image; open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Sample different world cuisine options at this iconic market with fresh produce and casual eateries.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens

Relax and enjoy scenic walking paths featuring Australian native plants in a tranquil garden setting.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Eureka Skydeck

Take in panoramic views of Melbourne from the 88th floor observation deck; open until 10pm.
AUD25, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Vue de Monde

Experience fine dining with spectacular views of Melbourne, offering contemporary Australian gourmet cuisine.
AUD150, 2h
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