The open road is calling

Sydney to Eden

The open road is calling. If you’re dreaming of a family adventure filled with coastal views, seaside towns and unforgettable natural experiences, a road trip along the New South Wales South Coast delivers it all.

Stretching from Sydney to the Victorian border, this spectacular coastline is packed with white-sand beaches, marine parks, rolling hinterland and charming towns. Whether you have a few days or a full week, this itinerary will help you plan the ultimate South Coast escape.

Ease into your road trip with a scenic drive south to Berkeley. Just under two hours from Sydney, this peaceful area offers rolling green hills and a slower pace.

Berkeley

Drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes from Sydney

Ease into your road trip with a scenic drive south to Berkeley. Just under two hours from Sydney, this peaceful pocket near Lake Illawarra offers rolling green hills and a slower pace.

Stretch your legs along the Lake Illawarra Foreshore Walk and Art trail, where flat, family-friendly paths follow the water’s edge, or stop at Berkeley Harbour for a picnic overlooking the lake. There are playgrounds and open green spaces nearby, making it an easy first stop to refresh before continuing down the coast.

Stop 2: Kiama Blowhole

Drive time: 26 minutes from Berkeley

One of the South Coast’s most iconic natural attractions, the Kiama Blowhole is a must-see. Follow the scenic foreshore pathway to the viewing platform and, when conditions are right, watch ocean spray shoot up to 20 metres into the air. The surrounding headland is perfect for a wander, with sections of the Kiama Coastal Walk offering dramatic clifftop views.

Kiama Harbour is another great place to pause, with grassy areas, cafés and plenty of space for kids to move around. Before heading further south, consider a detour to Seven Mile Beach, known for its surf breaks and sweeping coastal scenery.

Stop 3: Jervis Bay Marine Park

Drive time: 1 hour 5 minutes from Kiama

Famous for its crystal-clear waters and brilliantly white sand, Jervis Bay is a highlight of any South Coast road trip. The Marine Park is home to abundant marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling, diving or kayaking across calm, sheltered bays. If you’re visiting during winter, keep an eye out for migrating whales passing offshore. For a scenic walk, follow sections of the White Sands Walk between Vincentia and Hyams Beach, or enjoy an easy stroll along the Huskisson foreshore, where playgrounds and picnic spots make it especially family-friendly.

Where to stay in Jervis Bay

Staying overnight in Vincentia or Huskisson allows you to soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere a little longer.

Bawley Point

Drive time: 1 hour 10 minutes from Jervis Bay

If you’re looking for a quieter beach break, Bawley Point is the perfect place to slow down. Known for its white sand and clear water, it’s an idyllic setting for a swim, picnic or relaxed afternoon by the sea. Wander between Cormorant and Gannet beaches, explore nearby rock pools or follow short coastal bush tracks for fresh ocean air and peaceful views. It’s an easy, refreshing stop before continuing further south.

Batemans Bay

Drive time: 1 hour 10 minutes from Bawley Point

Batemans Bay offers a lively change of pace and plenty to see and do. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, browse boutique shops in town or enjoy a scenic cruise along the Clyde River where you might spot local wildlife. Food lovers will appreciate the region’s fresh seafood — particularly local oysters, best enjoyed overlooking the water. For a quick leg stretch, the Batemans Bay foreshore walk is flat and accessible, while a short walk up to Observation Head Lookout rewards you with expansive coastal views.

North Narooma

Drive time: 54 minutes from Batemans Bay

North Narooma is known for its spectacular water views and relaxed charm. The Mill Bay Boardwalk is a standout, offering an easy, scenic loop where you may even spot dolphins swimming in the clear waters below. For those keen to stretch their legs a little more, the walk up Mount Dromedary (Gulaga) provides panoramic views across the coastline and hinterland. Around Narooma Headlands, shorter scenic walks offer equally rewarding outlooks without the longer climb.

Bermagui

Drive time: 30 minutes south of North Narooma

A stunning spot to stop and appreciate the coastline, Bermagui and its famous Blue Pools offer heaps to see and do. Spend time swimming in the iconic Bermagui Blue Pool, wander along Horseshoe Bay Beach or follow coastal walking tracks with sweeping ocean views.

Where to stay:

Stay at Reflections Bermagui, with its array of offerings of cabins, tiny homes and campsites, dog-friendly and perfectly positioned to explore this stunning stretch of coastline.

Final stop: Eden

Drive time: 1 hour 37 minutes from North Narooma

Located in the Bega Valley, Eden marks a spectacular finish to your South Coast road trip. Overlooking Twofold Bay, this historic town is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and fresh seafood. Explore Ben Boyd National Park, take in panoramic views from Rotary Park Lookout or walk short sections of the Light to Light Walk for unforgettable ocean vistas. If you’re travelling in late winter, the Eden Whale Festival celebrates the annual whale migration and is a memorable way to round out your adventure.

Where to stay:

Choosing to stay at Reflections Eden means more than just a great location between Lake Curalo and Aslings Beach. The park offers a variety of accommodation options, from spacious powered and unpowered campsites perfect for tents, caravans and motorhomes to self-contained cabins that suit couples, families or groups, with modern kitchenettes, private bathrooms and lovely views. Whether you’re after a cosy cabin retreat or a lakeside camping spot, you’ll find something to suit your style and budget. On-site facilities include well-equipped camp kitchens with BBQs and fridges, clean amenity blocks, a laundry, children’s playground, communal lounge and games room, EV charging stations, and even a dog wash for four-legged guests.

Ready to explore?

From blowholes and boardwalks to white-sand beaches and whale watching, the NSW South Coast is made for road-tripping. With plenty of scenic places to pause, explore and stretch your legs along the way, it’s an easy and rewarding drive for families and adventure seekers alike.