Looking for the ultimate adventure in your campervan? This Sydney to Melbourne road trip is packed with stunning coastal views, national parks, and incredible food. Over nine unforgettable days, you’ll cover 1,475 km of Australia’s scenic southeast, discovering beautiful beaches, charming towns, and natural wonders along the way. Whether you’re after epic drives or hidden gems, this Sydney to Melbourne road trip has it all. Let’s hit the road!
Day 1 – Sydney to Jervis Bay
To kick start your journey, begin in Sydney and head towards Jervis Bay, a three-hour drive along the New South Wales coast. You can drive along the Grand Pacific Drive, where you will see stunning ocean views. The drive takes you from the Royal National Park to the Sea Cliff Bridge, where you can see breathtaking views.
Why not stop at Symbio Wildlife Park to see some koalas or visit Kiama, a stunning seaside town with the famous Kiama Blowhole? If you want to make more out of the first leg of your road trip, we recommend a stop at Berry. The quaint town has plenty of unique stores, and many cafes to enjoy a coffee and mingle with the locals.
Spend the night in Jervis Bay, where you can make the most out of its sandy beaches. Hyams Beach, Murrays Beach, Callala Beach, and Hare Bay are some of the best beaches.
Day 2 – Jervis Bay to Central Tilba
The next day involves a 3.5-hour drive from Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay and Central Tilba. There is plenty to see and do, including a cruise on Jervis Bay where you can see dolphins, seals, and even humpback whales. As you drive, take a stop in Milton. This stylish town has plenty of cafes for the perfect spot to rest and recharge.
It’s also worth stopping in Batemans Bay to enjoy fresh oysters. There is even an oyster-tasting kayak tour where you can enjoy fresh oysters and soak up some views of the Clyde River. At Central Tilba, you can explore the heritage-listed village and soak up the history before resting and resuming your journey.
Day 3 – Tilba to Merimbula
Today is a shorter drive, only one hour, as you drive to Merimbula to enjoy the scenery, national parks, and stunning villages. Extend the drive with some stops, like at Wallaga Lake, where you can take in the largest lake in the region and see the Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock. The Blue Pool at Bermagui is also worth a visit, with some restaurants around it where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
At Merimbula, you can enjoy resting in a beautiful seaside town. You can enjoy swimming in the lake and stroll along the boardwalk.
Day 4 – Merimbula to Mallacoota
It’s another short drive today, driving to Mallacoota, where you can stop along the way to soak up more sights. There are oyster tours you can enjoy, bars serving local ales, and former whaling towns where you can enjoy.
As you drive into Victoria, you will find plenty of local parks to enjoy and small towns to explore. You can spend the night at Gipsy Point if you want to make the most of your stay.
Day 5 – Mallacoota to Lakes Entrance
Mallacoota to Lakes Entrance is a 2.5-hour drive, but you can extend the day with plenty of stops. It’s worth visiting Gabo Island, home to colonies of seabirds and seals. There are chartered tours too, where you can spot dolphins and tour a 19th-century lighthouse to soak up some history and culture.
Croajigolong National Park is an excellent coastal reserve, and the Buchan Caves are also worth visiting if you want to take some time away from the sea. Before heading to bed, Ninety Mile Beach should be explored too. The beach can feel endless, and the options for fresh seafood will send you to sleep with a full belly.
Day 6 – Lakes Entrance to Walhalla
As you leave Lakes Entrance, you will travel inland, soaking up the history that Victoria has to offer. Metung Hot Springs is the perfect place to recharge, while Gippsland has plenty of small towns to explore. The botanical gardens are a must, as well as visiting Sale.
Many historical sights exist, like Windsor House, Goldfields Railway, and Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine. You can find something for everyone to enjoy in this part of your trip!
Day 7 – Walhalla to Wilson Promontory
Moving from Walhalla to Wilsons Promontory allows you to soak up rainforests, coastal national parks, and charming towns, giving you plenty of opportunities to break up your drive. Make sure you allow plenty of time to explore Wilson’s Promontory National Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and stunning beaches. Make sure you have your camera, as you will find plenty of photo opportunities.
If you are up for adventure, climb Mt Oberon and enjoy 360-degree views of Wilson Promontory. You can also enjoy a wildlife walk to see kangaroos, wombats, and wallabies in the wild.
Day 8 – Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island
A 1.5-hour drive will take you down coastal roads as you reach Phillip Island. Take a break at South Gippsland for local wineries and breweries and a delicious lunch. You can also trace the coastline to soak up fantastic views, and cruise around Phillip Island, where you can see the wildlife and learn about the island’s history.
Day 9 – Phillip Island to Melbourne
Your journey ends today, as you drive 2 hours to Melbourne. You can soak up your time in Phillip Island and stop at Mornington Peninsula hot springs to enjoy outdoor pools, spa treatments, and even a private bath. Finish your trip in Melbourne, where you can take advantage of everything the fantastic city offers.
Start your Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip in a Campervan Trip
Now that you have your route, it’s time to start planning your trip. A campervan is best, as you can rest while you travel and enjoy plenty of comforts on the road. Travellers Autobarn offer some of the best prices for campervans and can help you kick-start your trip. See deals on campervan hire in Sydney to begin your journey today.
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