Every March, Melbourne transforms into the world stage when the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix roars into town. Fans fly in from all over the globe, hotels fill quickly, and the city pulses with energy. But here’s a secret: the best way to arrive isn’t by rushing through airports or hailing taxis — it’s by taking the scenic road trip from Sydney to Melbourne.
With a rental car, you’ve got the flexibility to turn the journey into an adventure. The Sydney to Melbourne coastal route is one of Australia’s most stunning drives, filled with national parks, charming seaside towns, rolling hills, and golden beaches. You can blitz through in two or three days, but to really enjoy it, we recommend taking a full week. That way, by the time you roll into Melbourne for the Grand Prix, you’ll have already experienced one of the most unforgettable road trips in the country.
Here’s how to plan the ultimate drive.
Why Drive Instead of Fly?
Flying gets you there quickly — but you miss everything in between. Hiring a car means:
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Freedom to explore — stop when you like, detour to hidden gems, and soak in the coastal scenery.
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Comfort and convenience — luggage in the boot, air-con set to your liking, no baggage fees.
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One-way options — with Redspot, you can hire in Sydney and drop off in Melbourne (or vice versa).
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Unlimited kilometres — drive as much as you want without stressing about the odometer.
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Peace of mind — with $0 damage liability and 24/7 roadside assistance, you can relax and enjoy the ride.
Day 1: Sydney to Nowra
Sea Cliff Bridge
Kick off in Sydney and head south through the Royal National Park, one of the oldest national parks in the world. The Grand Pacific Drive sets the tone with breathtaking ocean views, especially from Stanwell Tops Lookout and the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge that sweeps out over the water.
Stop for lunch in Kiama (don’t miss the Blowhole) or head inland to Berry or Kangaroo Valley for boutique cafés and historic pubs.
End the day in Nowra, with plenty of accommodation options to suit every traveller.
Day 2: Nowra to Batemans Bay
Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay
Start your morning in Jervis Bay. Dip your toes into the dazzling white sands of Hyams Beach, often claimed to be the whitest in the world. Explore Booderee National Park with its mix of beaches, bushwalking trails, and wildlife.
Grab lunch in Ulladulla or visit Pebbly Beach, famous for its resident kangaroos. As the afternoon sets in, drive through Murramarang National Park before settling in for the night at Batemans Bay.
Day 3: Batemans Bay to Eden
Central Tilba
This stretch is packed with charming towns. Stop at Mogo for quirky boutiques or the historic Central Tilba for heritage shopping. Cheese lovers should detour to Bega, while oyster fans can’t miss Pambula.
Nature enthusiasts will love Ben Boyd National Park, with its coastal walks and picnic spots. Spend the night in Eden, a town famous for whale watching (May to November) and exceptional seafood year-round.
Day 4: Eden to Bairnsdale (Victoria)
Gippsland Lakes
Cross the NSW border into Victoria and visit Mallacoota, set on a sparkling inlet surrounded by national parks. If time allows, take a tour to Gabo Island’s penguin colonies or explore Croajingolong National Park.
Continue on to Metung in the Gippsland Lakes, Australia’s largest inland waterway, then stay overnight in Bairnsdale. This laid-back town also offers wineries, breweries, and plenty of local charm.
Day 5: Bairnsdale to Walhalla
Maffra – Cheddar Cheese
Kick off the day at the Sale Wetlands, with its boardwalk perfect for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Drive through lush dairy country to Maffra, known for its historic main street and delicious cheddar.
End the day in Walhalla, a preserved gold rush town tucked in the Victorian Alps. Explore underground mines, stroll through history, or enjoy a hearty meal at the Star Hotel.
Day 6: Walhalla to Wilsons Promontory
Squeaky Beach, Victoria
Head south to Wilsons Promontory National Park, one of Victoria’s most beloved natural escapes. Highlights include the Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk, Squeaky Beach, and endless wildlife spotting. Stay overnight in Foster, a charming town close to the Prom.
Day 7: Foster to Phillip Island
Penguin Parade, Phillip Island, Victoria
Drive through Fish Creek (great galleries and cafés) and stop for lunch in Inverloch, a seaside favourite. Cross the bridge to Phillip Island, famous for its Penguin Parade, fur seal colonies, and shearwater rookeries. Overnight in Rhyll or Cowes, depending on whether you prefer village charm or a buzzing seaside vibe.
Day 8: Phillip Island to Melbourne
Before finishing your journey, visit the Koala Conservation Centre or hike up Conservation Hill. Then continue onto the Mornington Peninsula, a playground of wineries, beaches, golf courses, and fresh produce. Try berry picking, enjoy a vineyard lunch, or swim with dolphins before finally arriving in Melbourne.
You’ll have seen the best of coastal NSW and Victoria — and you’ll still make it in time for the Formula 1.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Drive
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Book early – Car hire, accommodation, and even attractions book out quickly around F1 season.
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Choose the right vehicle – Compact for solo or couples, SUVs for families, people movers for groups.
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Consider your cover – With $0 damage liability, you won’t be left with surprise bills.
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Tolls – Sydney and Melbourne have toll roads. Add a toll pass waiver for unlimited, stress-free use.
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Pack snacks and water – Some stretches between towns are long and remote.
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Share the drive – Distances are manageable, but swapping drivers makes it easier.
Beyond Formula 1
Not coming for the Grand Prix? This road trip is a year-round adventure. Summer means beaches and swimming, winter offers cosy alpine towns, spring brings wildflowers, and autumn paints the countryside gold.
Why Redspot Car Rentals is the Perfect Partner
Redspot makes road trips simple:
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🚗 Airport locations in Sydney and Melbourne for easy pick-up and drop-off.
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🚗 One-way rentals so you can start in one city and finish in another.
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🚗 Unlimited kilometres for total road trip freedom.
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🚗 Modern fleet of compact cars, SUVs, and people movers.
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🚗 Transparent Rates with no hidden extras.
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🚗 24/7 roadside assistance for peace of mind.
Whether you’re chasing the roar of Formula 1 or the quiet beauty of the coast, we’ve got the right car for your trip.