Why fly when you can cruise the coast? This isn’t just a drive — it’s a five-day feast of seaside towns, ocean views, boutique stays, and wildlife encounters. From Jervis Bay’s white sands to Eden’s seafood and Lakes Entrance serenity, this guide plots out your dream road trip with handy driving tips, ideal stopovers, and vehicle recommendations.
Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay (~200km)
Start your journey at the Sydney Airport. Head south on the Princes Highway, and within two hours you’ll hit Kiama – the perfect pitstop to stretch your legs and check out the famous Kiama Blowhole. Grab a pastry at Flour Water Salt before continuing on to Jervis Bay.
Jervis Bay is a jewel. Hyams Beach boasts some of the whitest sand on Earth. The calm waters are perfect for a swim or even a dolphin cruise. Stay overnight in Huskisson for chilled coastal vibes.
Hot Tip: If you’re not in a rush, take the Grand Pacific Drive via the Sea Cliff Bridge — it’s a stunner.
Day 2: Jervis Bay to Narooma (~200km)
Back on the road, your next stop is Batemans Bay for a quick coffee or kayak. Continue south until you reach Narooma — often skipped by travellers, but one of the South Coast’s true gems.
Check out Australia Rock, take a scenic boat ride to Montague Island (penguins and seals galore), or simply enjoy the seafood — Narooma oysters are elite. Consider an overnight stay here.
Vehicle Tip: An SUV from Redspot gives you the space and flexibility to pack beach gear, coolers, and extra snacks without playing Tetris every morning.
Day 3: Narooma to Eden (~170km)
Drive through the lush forests of Mimosa Rocks National Park, and stop in Bermagui or Tathra for an ocean dip and fish and chips. Then it’s on to Eden — a historic whaling town turned eco-tourism haven.
If you’re travelling from May to November, Eden is prime whale-watching territory. The Killer Whale Museum is also worth a visit, and the Sapphire Coast’s views are hard to beat.
Foodie Tip: Head to Drift Eden for a beachside brunch with quality coffee.
Day 4: Eden to Lakes Entrance (~250km)
You’ll cross into Victoria today. Stop at the Cann River Bakery or take a short detour to Cape Conran for a coastal bushwalk. Lakes Entrance is a hub of Gippsland Lakes and a great overnight base.
Explore the Ninety Mile Beach, take a boat out on the lakes, or ride the scenic footbridge at sunset. Accommodation ranges from motels to luxe cabins.
Safety Tip: This part of the Princes Highway is more remote, so ensure you’ve got a full tank and snacks onboard. Mobile coverage dips in places.
Day 5: Lakes Entrance to Melbourne (~320km)
Home stretch! Stop in Sale or Yarragon (an underrated art-and-café town) on your way. If time permits, swing through the Dandenong Ranges for a leafy detour before finishing at Redspot Melbourne Airport.
This section of the drive is more freeway-focused but still scenic. If you’re travelling in summer, add an extra stop at Wilsons Promontory or Phillip Island.
Bonus Tips for the Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Drive:
1. One-Way Rental Advice: Redspot offers easy one-way rentals, so there’s no need to loop back. Just pick up in Sydney and drop in Melbourne — no fuss.
2. Weather Watch: Summer is peak season, but spring and autumn offer perfect weather with fewer crowds.
3. Budget vs Executive Packages: Our Executive Package includes zero damage liability and unlimited kms — ideal for longer trips.
4. Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, swimmers, reusable water bottles, and a sense of adventure.
5. Keep Left, Stay Chill: For international visitors — yes, we drive on the left. And Aussies are laid-back behind the wheel, but don’t mistake that for ignoring road rules. Stick to limits and take breaks.
The Sydney to Melbourne coastal road trip is the perfect blend of comfort, coast, and countryside. Whether you’re in it for the beaches, the bushwalks, or the bakeries, this journey is unforgettable — especially with the freedom of your own rental car.
So pack the boot, queue your favourite playlist, and let Redspot take you from the Harbour to the Yarra – the long, fun way.