Sydney to Melbourne

Start your self-drive road trip from Sydney to Jervis Bay with an early departure to beat the infamous Sydney traffic. This coastal journey promises a stunning mix of dramatic sea cliffs, charming villages, and some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches. As you head south, the road will lead you through some of New South Wales' most scenic landscapes—perfect for your first taste of freedom on the open road.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Kiama Blowhole (2 hours from Sydney)
Make your first major stop at the spectacular Kiama Blowhole, where powerful ocean swells shoot water up through a natural rock formation. It's one of the largest blowholes in the world and a great spot for morning tea or a photo break.

2. Seven Mile Beach
Just south of Kiama, take a quick detour to Seven Mile Beach, known for its vast stretch of white sand and shimmering Pacific waters. It's an ideal place to dip your toes in the ocean or enjoy a picnic by the dunes.

3. Grand Pacific Drive & Shoalhaven River
Follow the Grand Pacific Drive southward, winding through lush hinterland and coastal cliffs before crossing the Shoalhaven River, where you'll catch glimpses of estuaries, wetlands, and native wildlife.

4. Berry Village
Pause in the historic town of Berry, a delightful stopover filled with antique shops, boutique stores, and cosy cafes. Try some fresh-baked treats or browse for handmade souvenirs before continuing on.

5. Arrival at Jervis Bay
Arrive in Jervis Bay in the late afternoon for a well-earned swim or surf. Famed for having the whitest sand in the world, this protected marine park sits within Booderee National Park and stretches over 15 km in length. If you’re after adventure, take your pick from bushwalking, snorkelling, kayaking, canoeing, diving, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters. Keep an eye out for dolphins!

Where To Stay

Holiday Haven White Sands

Set up camp at the popular Holiday Haven White Sands, located right on Huskisson Beach. This beachfront holiday park offers easy access to local walking trails and serves as a launch point for many of Jervis Bay’s marine tours. Known as Australia’s second-most popular dive spot after the Great Barrier Reef, Huskisson is the perfect place to kick off your coastal adventure with a splash.

Your second day on the Sydney to Melbourne self-drive road trip offers a laid-back drive through New South Wales’ picturesque South Coast, rich with marine life, local delicacies, and dramatic geological wonders. With a bit of planning, this day blends wildlife encounters with coastal beauty and natural history, all wrapped up with a relaxing seaside stay.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Morning Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise – Jervis Bay
Start your day early with a memorable wildlife experience. Dolphin Watch Cruises in Jervis Bay offers the chance to spot resident bottlenose dolphins, migrating humpback whales (May–November), and even seals. These protected waters are considered one of the best whale watching spots in the world, making it a true must-do.

2. Scenic Drive to Batemans Bay
After your cruise, head south along the Princes Highway toward Batemans Bay. Take your time and enjoy the rolling coastal landscapes. Once in town, be sure to stop for lunch and try the region's famed Clyde River Oysters—some of the freshest and most flavourful in Australia.

3. Arrival in Narooma – Australia Rock & Glasshouse Rocks
Continue along the highway to reach Narooma, a charming seaside town nestled along the sparkling Wagonga Inlet. Don’t miss a visit to the intriguing Australia Rock, a natural rock formation shaped remarkably like the map of Australia. Then, head to the Glasshouse Rocks, ancient sedimentary formations dating back over 500 million years. Located at the southern end of Narooma Surf Beach, they’re especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

4. Montague Island Nature Tour
For wildlife lovers, a half-day tour to Montague Island is unmissable. Just 8 km offshore, the island is home to New South Wales’ only colony of Australian fur seals, as well as thousands of little penguins and diverse seabird species. Tours typically include a boat trip, optional snorkelling, and a guided walk around the historic lighthouse and nature reserve.

Where To Stay

Surf Beach Holiday Park – Narooma

Nestled right on Narooma’s Surf Beach, this beachfront holiday park offers unbeatable ocean views and convenient access to walking tracks, tide pools, and sunset lookouts. Whether you're winding down after a day of wildlife adventures or planning your Montague Island tour the next morning, Surf Beach Holiday Park is the perfect place to park your camper and soak in the coastal charm.

Day 3 of your Sydney to Melbourne road trip by campervan is a relaxing coastal drive that takes you deeper into the Sapphire Coast, through quaint heritage villages, past pristine lagoons, and into Victoria’s untamed wilderness. Today’s route promises stunning coastal parks, gourmet delights, and a chance to reconnect with nature in one of Australia's most untouched biospheres.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Breakfast Stop at Tilba Tilba
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast in Tilba Tilba, a charming heritage village nestled in the foothills of Mount Gulaga. With fewer than 500 residents, the village is a beautifully preserved glimpse into 1880s Australian gold-rush life. Wander through historic buildings, browse the artisan boutiques, and don’t miss the locally made cheeses—the area is renowned for its dairy heritage, particularly the Tilba Real Dairy.

2. Swim or Picnic at Mimosa Rocks National Park
Continue south along the scenic Sapphire Coast, and take a detour into Mimosa Rocks National Park, open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Here, you can stop for a swim in the tranquil lagoon waters, enjoy a picnic amid lush coastal bushland, or stretch your legs on one of the park's easy walking trails. The crystal-clear estuaries and secluded coves make this a serene pause before crossing into Victoria.

3. Welcome to Victoria – Arrive in Mallacoota
As you cross the state border from New South Wales into Victoria, your destination is the peaceful seaside village of Mallacoota, tucked between Croajingolong National Park and the Tasman Sea. This region is rich in biodiversity and part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, one of only twelve in the country.

4. Explore the Croajingolong Coastline
Once in Mallacoota, take the scenic Pittosporum Walk, an easy 1.4 km track hugging the shoreline, ideal for birdwatching and scenic photo ops. For a more adventurous outing, consider the 13 km boat ride to Gabo Island, where you can climb the 47-metre pink granite lighthouse and enjoy panoramic ocean views. The island is also a sanctuary for seabirds and wallabies.

Where To Stay

Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park

Park up for the night at Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park, perfectly situated on the edge of the inlet with sweeping views of the surrounding bush and water. This spacious, well-equipped campground offers direct access to beaches, walking tracks, and fishing spots, making it a great base for relaxing after a full day of travel and exploration.

Today’s drive takes you deeper into Victoria’s Gippsland Lakes region, with plenty of chances to spot native Australian wildlife, enjoy pristine beaches, and unwind in peaceful lakeside towns. From coastal parks to inland estuaries, Day 4 of your Sydney to Melbourne self-drive road trip is all about nature, water, and easygoing exploration.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Gipsy Point Wildlife Viewing
As you leave Mallacoota, make a short detour to Gipsy Point, a tranquil inlet village known for its abundant wildlife. The area is home to a resident kangaroo population, often seen grazing on the foreshore. It’s a great spot for a morning coffee with a side of wildlife watching.

2. Cape Conran Coastal Park
Continue your journey westward to Cape Conran Coastal Park, a haven for native fauna including kangaroos, koalas, emus, echidnas, and diverse birdlife. The coastal scenery here is spectacular—think windswept beaches, tea-tree scrub, and rugged headlands. Take a short walk through the bush or pause for a picnic overlooking the Southern Ocean.

3. Ninety Mile Beach at Lakes Entrance
An hour’s drive from Cape Conran brings you to Lakes Entrance, a classic Aussie holiday town set where the Gippsland Lakes meet the ocean. Stretch your legs with a stroll on the iconic Ninety Mile Beach—one of the longest uninterrupted beaches in the world. While walking the full length isn’t advised, a short wander is perfect for fresh sea air and stunning coastal views.

4. Arrive in Metung – Boating & Fishing Fun
From Lakes Entrance, it’s a short, scenic drive inland to Metung, a charming waterfront village on the edge of the Gippsland Lakes. Known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque scenery, Metung is a top spot for boating and fishing. Hire a boat or join a charter to try your luck at catching local species like bream, flathead, whiting, and even snapper.

In the evening, take a peaceful sunset walk along Metung’s waterfront boardwalk, where you can admire the moored sailboats and calm lake reflections. Follow it up with a seafood dinner at a local eatery, showcasing the best of Gippsland’s fresh catch. Then drive back to Lakes Entrance for caravan park accommodation.

Where To Stay

Waters Edge Holiday Park

Waters Edge Holiday Park in Lakes Entrance, Victoria, offers a relaxed coastal escape with a mix of cabins, studios, and powered sites for caravans and campers. Just a short walk from town, the park features family-friendly amenities including a swimming pool, games room, jumping pillow, camp kitchen, BBQs, and a fish cleaning bay. Ideal for both relaxation and adventure, it's close to local attractions like the Lakes, Buchan Caves, and Dolphin Lookout, with boating, fishing, and bushwalking right at your doorstep.

Day 5 of your Sydney to Melbourne self-drive road trip takes you inland and then back to the coast, ending at one of Victoria’s most iconic natural treasures: Wilsons Promontory National Park. With lush rainforest trails, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife, "The Prom" is a must-see destination for nature lovers. But first, enjoy a taste of classic Aussie country life along the way.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Scenic Drive to Yarram via South Gippsland Highway
Depart early from Metung and head southwest along the South Gippsland Highway toward Yarram, a charming country town known for its friendly locals and hidden natural gems. The rolling farmland and eucalyptus-dotted landscapes make this a beautiful drive through the heart of Gippsland’s rural charm.

2. Minnehaha Falls & Country Pie Stop in Yarram
Just outside Yarram, take a short detour to the picturesque Minnehaha Falls, a tranquil spot perfect for a mid-morning walk and photo opportunity. Back in town, treat yourself to a lunch stop at the award-winning Yarram Bakery, renowned for their Great Australian Meat Pie Competition accolades. Whether you're after a classic steak and cheese or something gourmet, it's the perfect Aussie pitstop.

3. Explore Wilsons Promontory National Park
After lunch, continue your journey with a two-hour drive to Wilsons Promontory, the southernmost point of the Australian mainland. Covering 17,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, the park boasts granite mountains, native bushland, beaches, and marine reserves.

Choose from a variety of walking trails:

• Squeaky Beach: A short trail leading to dazzling white quartz sand that literally "squeaks" underfoot.

• Lilly Pilly Gully: A peaceful circuit through lush temperate rainforest and towering eucalypts.

• Mt. Oberon Summit: A moderately easy 7 km return hike that rewards you with panoramic coastal views, ideal at sunset.
  
  

Keep your camera ready for encounters with kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and flocks of native birds - you might spot them grazing by your trail or campground. Bring birdseed (if permitted) to gently interact with some of the feathered locals.

Where To Stay

Wilsons Prom Holiday Park (Just Outside the Park)

Wilsons Prom Holiday Park is located in Yanakie, just 5 minutes from the park entrance. It features powered sites, cabins, and stunning views over Corner Inlet. Ideal for those seeking a quieter base with easy access to all the Prom’s attractions.

Today’s journey brings you from the wild beauty of Wilsons Promontory to the coastal charm of Phillip Island, one of Victoria’s top wildlife destinations. With scenic coastal drives, creative country towns, and one of Australia's most iconic natural spectacles—the Penguin Parade—this leg of your Sydney to Melbourne self-drive road trip offers a delightful blend of nature, art, and wildlife.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Morning Swim or Snorkel at Wilsons Promontory
Kick off the day with an early swim or snorkelling session in the clear, protected waters of Wilsons Promontory Marine Park. If you're lucky, you might spot vibrant reef fish, stingrays, harmless reef sharks, and even coral gardens. It’s an unforgettable way to farewell the Prom.

2. Breakfast and Browsing in Fish Creek
Head inland toward Fish Creek, a quaint country village known for its creative arts community. With a population of around 675, this tiny township punches well above its weight in charm. Stop for a hearty breakfast at a local café and browse through art galleries, bookshops, and artisan stores for unique souvenirs.

3. Stop at the Inverloch Shell Museum
On your way to Phillip Island, make a detour to Inverloch's Shell Museum, a small but fascinating natural history museum showcasing rare shells, fossils, and the first Australian dinosaur bones discovered in 1903. Entry is free (open Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm), making it a budget-friendly gem for families and curious travellers alike.

4. Witness the Famous Penguin Parade
Aim to arrive on Phillip Island by mid-afternoon so you can grab a bite and secure your spot for the island’s star attraction: the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Park. Every evening at dusk, hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing, and it's a magical sight for all ages. Make sure to book tickets in advance during peak seasons.

Where To Stay

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island

Conveniently located close to Cowes’ shops, restaurants, and beaches, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island is an ideal base for exploring the island. The park offers powered campervan sites, modern amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere, just a short drive from the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, and local surf beaches.

Your final full day on the Sydney to Melbourne self-drive campervan road trip is packed with unique wildlife encounters, coastal lookouts, and cultural highlights before wrapping up on the tranquil shores of the Mornington Peninsula. With scenic cliffs, heritage sites, and a magical night tour through a wildlife sanctuary, this day ends the adventure on a memorable note.

Things To Do Along the Way

1. Wildlife Coast Cruise to Seal Rocks
Start your day on a high with a Wildlife Coast Cruise to Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals. This two-hour boat trip offers close-up views of these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. Watch them sunbathe, dive, and frolic just off the coast of Phillip Island—great for photography and marine wildlife lovers.

2. Cape Woolamai and Pink Granite Cliffs
Next, visit Cape Woolamai, the highest point on Phillip Island. Famous for its striking pink granite cliffs and sweeping coastal views, it's a top spot for a scenic walk or photo stop. The Cape Woolamai walking tracks are also great for birdwatching and catching views of surfers below.

3. Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Before leaving Phillip Island, cross over to Churchill Island, the site of Victoria’s first European settlement. Explore the beautifully restored heritage homestead, historic farm buildings, and blooming gardens. If your visit lands on the fourth Saturday of the month, don’t miss the Churchill Island Farmers Market, a top spot to pick up locally made produce and artisanal goods.

4. Pelican Feeding at San Remo
On your way off the island, stop at San Remo Pier (Jetty) around midday to witness the popular pelican feeding session. It's a quirky and fun sight as these large birds gather daily for their fishy feast, especially entertaining for kids and wildlife fans.

5. Explore Mornington Peninsula: Point Nepean & Arthurs Seat
Once you cross onto the Mornington Peninsula, head to Point Nepean National Park to visit the historic Fort Nepean military ruins and walk the Quarantine Station trail with views across Bass Strait. Continue to Arthurs Seat, a 305-metre summit with panoramic vistas over Port Phillip Bay from Murray’s Lookout. You can hike or take the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola for an easy ascent.

6. Night Tour at Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
Wrap up your day with a magical night tour at the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park. This 2-hour guided experience allows you to see native and endangered Australian animals in their natural nighttime habits, including quolls, Tasmanian devils, bettongs, pademelons, and gliders. An unforgettable way to end your wildlife-focused adventure.

Where To Stay

Mornington Gardens Holiday Village

Located in the heart of Mornington, this peaceful caravan park is just a short walk from the beach, cafés, shops, and local attractions. With powered sites for campervans, well-maintained facilities, and a relaxed garden setting, Mornington Gardens Holiday Village offers a comfortable final stop on your road trip before heading into Melbourne or beyond.

Your final stretch takes you from the coastal calm of the Mornington Peninsula into the vibrant heart of Melbourne—Australia’s cultural capital and a city that blends laneway charm with world-class art, sport, and food. It’s a short and easy drive, giving you plenty of time to explore Melbourne’s dynamic city centre at your own pace.

Things To Do in Melbourne

1. Take a Ride on the City Circle Tram (Route 35)
One of the best introductions to Melbourne’s CBD is aboard the free City Circle Tram. Running every 12 minutes in a loop around the central district, the tram offers a relaxed, hop-on-hop-off experience of the city’s top sights. The full loop takes about 48 minutes, with onboard audio commentary explaining Melbourne's rich history and architecture.

Stops of interest include:

• Federation Square – A cultural hub with art galleries and riverside cafés.

• Parliament House – One of the oldest public buildings in Victoria.

• Melbourne Museum & Carlton Gardens – For history and exhibitions.

• Royal Botanic Gardens – A sprawling inner-city garden retreat.

• Docklands – Waterfront precinct with shopping and dining.

2. Explore the City’s Laneways and Café Scene
After the tram ride, take a walk through Melbourne’s famous laneways—such as Hosier Lane for street art or Degraves Street for a laneway latte. With a thriving café culture, you'll find everything from artisan coffee to rooftop brunch spots and eclectic eateries representing nearly every cuisine on earth.

You may wish to drop your campervan at the Britz Melbourne branch before you explore the city, or at the end of the day as our branch is conveniently located close to the airport for your onward travel. Alternatively, you might want to kick off your next road trip with us - Melbourne is a popular starting point for a self drive trip to Adelaide or Uluru.

Timing your trip

Although this road trip can be enjoyed year round, the best time of year for a Sydney to Melbourne road trip is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These shoulder seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural scenery - perfect for enjoying beaches, bushwalks, and wildlife without the intense summer heat or winter chill. Wildflowers bloom along the coastal drives in spring, while autumn brings crisp air and golden foliage through inland and forested regions. Additionally, accommodation prices are often lower than in peak holiday months, making it an ideal time for a relaxed and scenic campervan adventure.

To book a Britz campervan today, or let us help answer any campervan related questions, contact us today!