Grand Pacific Drive Road Trip (Including Jervis Bay), Australia
Updated January 2026 (originally published January 2021)
The Grand Pacific Drive is a spectacular coastal journey in New South Wales, starting south of Sydney and winding through dramatic cliffs, beaches, and national parks. The official route ends in Kiama (~131 km), but extending to Jervis Bay (world-famous white sands) and inland waterfalls makes it even better (~296 km one way).
Quick Info
- Core Route: 131 km / ~2.5 hours driving to Kiama (no stops).
- Extended: ~296 km / ~5.5 hours to Jervis Bay/Belmore Falls.
- Best Season: Summer (Dec–Feb) for swimming; avoid Sydney peak traffic (depart pre-6am or post-10am).
- Car Rental: Sydney options via Expedia, Rentalcars.com, or Skyscanner.
- Tip: Comprehensive insurance essential for coastal roads.
Itinerary Highlights (Sydney Southbound)
- Royal National Park: World’s second-oldest NP. Hike to Figure 8 Pools (tide/low-wave only—check safety; fatalities have occurred).
- Bald Hill Lookout & Sea Cliff Bridge: Epic views; walk/drive the ocean-hugging bridge (built 2005).
- Wollongong & Austinmer Beach: Relaxed vibes, beaches, lighthouse.
- Shellharbour, Bass Point & Kiama: Fish & chips; rugged cliffs; Kiama Blowhole (impressive in swells).
- Gerringong & Werri Beach: Long sandy stretch; optional coastal walk.
- Seven Mile Beach: Surf, dolphins, windy—pack dry bag for gear.
- Jervis Bay: Guinness-recognized whitest sand (Hyams Beach). Explore Booderee NP; camp at Honeymoon Bay (book ahead).
- Belmore Falls (Return Inland): 130m drop in Morton NP; wildlife spotting.
Staying Along the Route
Multi-day ideal. Camp in parks (e.g., Honeymoon Bay via NSW Parks—books fast). Hotels/Airbnbs in Wollongong, Kiama, or Huskisson (Jervis Bay). Shop Booking.com.
This drive blends ocean drama and paradise beaches—perfect NSW escape. Questions? Comment below!