Sydney to Jimmys Beach weekend road trip: where to stop along the way

Looking for an easy coastal escape from the city? The Sydney to Jimmys Beach road trip is a relaxed drive north that swaps city traffic for fresh sea air, quiet beaches and laid-back coastal towns.

The drive takes around 2.5–3 hours (about 220km) via the M1 Pacific Motorway and Pacific Highway. While it’s an easy trip to do in one go, adding a few stops along the way turns the journey into a mini road trip, a good leg stretch and some suggestions on where to grab a snack for the kids to keep them going...

From waterfalls and wildlife parks to classic highway cafés, here are some of the best stops between Sydney and Jimmys Beach to break up the drive.

Road trip snapshot

• Distance: around 220 km
• Driving time: 2.5–3 hours
• Route: M1 Pacific Motorway and Pacific Highway
• Best for: quick coastal escapes, easy stops and scenic breaks

Stop: Somersby falls

Driving time from Sydney: ~1 hour 10 minutes

Just a few minutes off the M1 in Brisbane Water National Park, Somersby Falls is one of the most beautiful natural stops along the drive north.

A short walking track leads to a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush forest and sandstone rock formations. It’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs and take a break from the road.

There are picnic tables and shaded areas if you’d like to pause for a snack before continuing the journey.

Stop: Australian Reptile Park

Driving time from Sydney: 1 hour 15 minutes

Located right off the M1 at Somersby, the Australian Reptile Park is one of the Central Coast’s most famous attractions and a fun stop along the way.

Home to crocodiles, snakes, koalas and kangaroos, the park is well known for its wildlife shows and conservation programs. Even a short visit gives you time to wander the grounds, grab a coffee and enjoy some wildlife encounters before getting back on the road.

It’s an especially good stop if you’re travelling with kids.

Stop: Old Road Café, Peats Ridge

Driving time from Sydney: 1 hour 20 minutes

If you’re looking for a classic road trip café stop, Old Road Café at Peats Ridge is a favourite with travellers heading north.

Located just off the M1, this casual roadside café is known for its hearty meals, great coffee and relaxed country atmosphere. It’s a great place to stop for breakfast, lunch or a quick coffee.

Stop: Wyong milk factory

Driving time from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes

Just a few minutes from the highway, the Wyong Milk Factory is a popular stop known for its local produce and relaxed riverside setting.

Here you’ll find cafés, artisan food stores and the well-known Little Creek Cheese. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, pick up some snacks or enjoy a sweet treat before continuing your road trip north.

The outdoor seating area overlooking the river makes it a pleasant place to pause before getting back on the road.

Stop: Tea gardens

Driving time from Sydney: ~2 hours 40 minutes

Just before reaching Hawks Nest and Jimmys Beach, the riverside town of Tea Gardens is the perfect final stop.

Located on the banks of the Myall River, this relaxed coastal town has a charming waterfront with cafés, bakeries and walking paths. It’s a great place to grab lunch or an afternoon coffee before the final few minutes of your journey.

From here, it’s only a short drive across the Singing Bridge to Hawks Nest and Jimmys Beach.

Start planning your coastal escape to Jimmys Beach NSW

Located just a few hours from Sydney, Reflections Jimmys Beach is an easy getaway for a weekend or longer stay. The park sits just moments from the sand, with a swimming pool on site and plenty of space to relax.

Everything you need is close by: it’s an easy walk to the local IGA and cafés for your morning coffee, while the charming riverside town of Tea Gardens is just a short drive away for restaurants, shops and scenic walks.

Whether you're staying in a cabin, bringing the caravan or pitching a tent, it’s a relaxed base for exploring the beautiful Port Stephens and Myall Lakes region.