Melbourne to Sydney
Australia
Not the straight Hume Highway but the longer, scenic route, east through Gippsland's green hills, past remote Croajingolong National Park's wild beaches, across the New South Wales border to the Sapphire Coast's calm bays and surf towns, and north to Sydney. The coastal alternative that takes a few days and arrives relaxed.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Melbourne
The cultural capital of Australia, with celebrated laneways and coffee culture. Head east on the Princes Highway; Gippsland farmland begins within an hour.
- Gippsland Lakes
Australia's largest inland waterway system, stretching south to Ninety Mile Beach. Dairy farms and river valleys give way to national park and a wild, remote coast.
- Croajingolong National Park
One of Australia's most remote parks, with beaches only on foot and Point Hicks, first Australian landfall sighted by Cook in 1770. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Eden
A historic whaling port turned whale-watching hub on Twofold Bay. The Killer Whale Museum tells the remarkable story of orca and human hunters working in partnership.
- Sapphire Coast
Named for its calm blue-green bays, Merimbula and Tathra are unhurried fishing towns. Whales pass May to November; the oysters and flathead are locally caught and fresh.
- Narooma
A quiet coastal town on a pristine estuary where Wagonga Inlet meets the sea. Montague Island, 9 km offshore, hosts 10,000 little penguins and one of Australia's finest dive sites.
- Batemans Bay
A popular holiday town where the Clyde River meets the sea, surrounded by Murramarang National Park. Excellent oysters come straight from the river; surf beaches begin here.
- Sydney
Arrive from the south via the Royal National Park coastal road for a clifftop approach to the harbour. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge appear as the city opens below.
Where to Eat
- The Waterwheel Beach TavernSeafood
Enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views at this popular spot in Lake Tyers Beach.
- The QuarterdeckSeafood
Savor local oysters and seafood dishes in a relaxed waterfront setting in Narooma.
- The River MoruyaModern Australian
Experience farm-to-table dining with seasonal ingredients in Moruya.
- Saltwater CaféCafé
Enjoy coffee and light meals with stunning ocean views in Merimbula.
- The Whale RestaurantModern Australian
Dine on contemporary dishes featuring local produce in Narooma.
Things to Do
- Wilsons Promontory National ParkNational Park
Explore diverse landscapes, from beaches to forests, and spot native wildlife.
- Phillip Island Penguin ParadeWildlife Experience
Witness little penguins returning to shore at sunset in a natural spectacle.
- Buchan CavesCave System
Tour limestone caves featuring stalactites and stalagmites in Buchan.
- Montague IslandWildlife Sanctuary
Visit a haven for seals, penguins, and seabirds off the coast of Narooma.
- Mimosa Rocks National ParkNational Park
Discover rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and diverse wildlife near Tathra.