- Headlands Austinmer Beach
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Discover the Best Places to Stay along The Grand Pacific Drive
From luxury coastal escapes to budget-friendly stays. One of the most iconic coastal road trips in Australia, the Grand Pacific Drive is as much about where you stay as it is about the journey itself. From Wollongong through to the Shoalhaven, here’s a curated guide to the best accommodation options along the way — whether you’re chasing luxury, value, or something a little more unique.
Luxury Coastal Accommodation
- Sage Hotel Wollongong – A modern coastal hotel perfectly positioned near the harbour, offering spacious rooms, event facilities and easy access to beaches, dining and the waterfront. Ideal for a polished weekend escape or city-meets-coast stay.
- Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong – Stylish, self-contained apartments designed for comfort and flexibility, featuring full kitchens, balconies and generous living spaces — perfect for longer stays or a home-away-from-home experience.
- Novotel Wollongong Northbeach – A beachfront favourite overlooking North Wollongong Beach, combining ocean-view rooms, a lively atmosphere and resort-style amenities including a pool, bar and restaurant.
- Headlands Austinmer Beach – Set high above the coastline, this relaxed yet refined retreat offers sweeping ocean views, modern apartments and a stunning clifftop location ideal for slow coastal escapes.
- The Sebel Kiama Harbourside – An iconic harbourfront stay with front-row access to Kiama’s coastline, coastal walks and blowhole, offering spacious rooms and uninterrupted water views.
- Bellevue Accommodation Kiama – A boutique-style stay known for its thoughtfully curated interiors, warm hospitality and central location just moments from Kiama’s cafes, shops and ocean outlooks.
- The Cove Jervis Bay – A truly special beachfront escape set on pristine white sand, offering luxury houses and a private, secluded feel — perfect for group getaways, weddings or special occasions.
- Bannisters by the Sea – A premium coastal retreat famed for its oceanfront location, infinity pool and award-winning dining, delivering a refined yet relaxed South Coast luxury experience.
Mid-Range Accommodation
Comfortable, stylish and perfectly located for a coastal getaway
- Quest Wollongong – Centrally located serviced apartments offering space, convenience and reliability, ideal for both short stays and extended visits in the heart of the city.
- Hotel TOTTO Wollongong – A design-forward hotel with a fresh, urban feel, featuring compact yet stylish rooms and a vibrant on-site dining experience.
- Nova Kiama – A contemporary and well-appointed stay just moments from Kiama’s beaches, cafes and attractions, offering comfort with a clean, modern aesthetic.
- Bannisters Pavilion – A modern, beach-chic escape near Mollymook Beach, featuring light-filled rooms, private balconies and a rooftop pool and bar that brings a relaxed yet elevated coastal vibe.
Motels
Classic road trip stays with coastal charm and great value
- Thirroul Beach Motel – Simple, no-fuss accommodation just steps from the beach, perfect for a quick coastal stop or laidback overnight stay.
- Surfside 22 Motel – A refreshed boutique-style motel that reimagines the classic roadside stay with elevated interiors, clean design and a relaxed coastal feel
- Berry View Motel – A comfortable and convenient base in the heart of Berry, within walking distance to popular cafes, boutiques and local favourites.
- Motel Molly – A vibrant, retro-inspired motel brought to life with colour and personality, offering a fun and stylish stay close to the beach.
- Hillcrest Merimbula – Perched above the coastline, this relaxed motel offers sweeping ocean views and a peaceful base on the Sapphire Coast.
Budget- Friendly Accommodation
Affordable options without compromising on location
- Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort – A laidback coastal stay with cabins, villas and great facilities, ideal for families, groups and longer stays near the beach.
- The Palms Motel Wollongong – A simple, centrally located motel offering great value and easy access to Wollongong’s beaches and CBD.
- Sky Accommodation – A modern and affordable option with clean, comfortable rooms suited to short stays and quick stopovers.
- Lakeside Inn Wollongong – Positioned between Lake Illawarra and the ocean, this scenic and budget-friendly stay offers a relaxed coastal setting.
- Boat Harbour Motel – A well-located, no-frills stay near Wollongong Harbour, perfect for travellers wanting to stay central on a budget.
Unique Accommodation
Memorable escapes that go beyond the ordinary
- Paperbark Camp – A luxury safari-style glamping experience immersed in bushland, combining nature, comfort and a truly unforgettable atmosphere near Jervis Bay.
- Bangalay Luxury Villas – Architecturally designed villas nestled among native bushland, offering a refined, peaceful retreat just moments from the beach.
- The Lodge Jamberoo – Located on a stunning riverfront, surrounded by acres of natural grounds. Find stylish rooms, beautiful resort pool, outdoor hot tub, indoor gym & spa.
- Cupitt’s Estate – The perfect place to unwind and enjoy a country escape at the Villas, take in sweeping vineyard views, luxury accommodation and an award-winning restaurant, winery and cellar door right at your doorstep.
