Itinerary Archives - Grand Pacific Drive

Family Getaway Itinerary

Wollongong, Shellharbour + Kiama

DAY 1

Morning:

You’ve barely left the city before you reach your first stop. Symbio Wildlife Park is 20 acres of regeneratively landscaped gardens and animal habitats, home to over 500 animals from around the world. Book an up-close animal encounter, or grab a map and make your own on-foot safari.
Need somewhere indoors? Check out the Early Start Discovery Space – a hands-on, interactive, playful children’s museum at the University of Wollongong.

Midday:

Head into town for lunch at Diggies North Beach – a family-friendly café with ocean views and a kids’ menu. Great for a relaxed, beachside bite in the sun while the kids run wild on the sand.
Wollongong Botanic Garden – Let the kids roam the playground and feed the ducks before hitting the road.

Afternoon:

Just south, you’ll find HARS Aviation Museum – Climb aboard real aircraft, sit in the cockpit of an F-111 jet fighter and explore the hangers on a guided tour to learn and discover the history of aviation. A hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
Get the whole family on the green with Mini Golf at The Links Shell Cove – A mini version of the full-size course with undulating greens and bunkers making it perfect for both little and big kids. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and spark a little friendly competition. Bonus: it’s right next to the tavern, so snacks and smiles are never far away.

Evening:

Enjoy an early dinner at The Links Shell Cove Tavern, with perfect sunset views over the course and a menu the even the littlest adventurer will enjoy.
Check in at NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park. Their beachfront cabins have room for the whole family as well as playgrounds, and space to unwind.

DAY 2

Morning:

Drive south to the Kiama lighthouse and blowhole – a classic stop that never fails to impress.
Walk, scoot or ride along the seaside pathway past bays and beaches to Little Earth Café where you can indulge in house-roasted organic coffee, homemade ice pops and their highly praised Reuban toasties.
If the swell is right, you might be able to see the spray from the Little Blowhole from the café. Otherwise, wander just down the road to a quieter, just-as-spectacular version for a second round of sea spray fun.

Mid-Morning:

Hop in the car and head for the hills – Minnamurra Rainforest boasts a pram-friendly boardwalk through lush rainforest, or those looking for a little more can keep climbing to the waterfall at the top. Be sure to keep an eye out for wandering wildlife like eastern water dragons, bower birds or even a sneaky swamp wallaby.

Lunch:

Crooked River Winery is set on the hills overlooking Gerringong. Offering an a la carte restaurant or a snack-sized bar menu, perfect for little mouths. Grab a picnic rug and set up on the grass to watch the light fade while the kids run off the last of their energy, or say hi to the resident farmyard animals before hitting the road and heading home.

road trip ideas

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Relax & Recharge the Senses

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Foodies’ Delight

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Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

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Salt Air & Soft Trails

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From Water to Wine

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Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

Hidden Gems Escape

Kiama, Shellharbour, Wollongong

DAY 1

Morning:

Grab breakfast and a coffee at The Farmer’s Table, tucked away in Kiama’s historic terrace houses. Featuring local produce, and capturing loads of natural light, it the perfect place to start your trip.
Head to the Little Blowhole – skip the crowds at the main blowhole and visit this dramatic, lesser-known natural wonder. It’s just as powerful, with far fewer people.

Mid-Morning:

Hidden in Gerringong’s industrial estate, you’ll find the calming, creative gem that is Soul Clay Studios – try your hand at pottery, wheel-throwing or simply browse the beautiful handmade ceramics.

Lunch:

Head just up the road to Stoic Brewing – this small-scale craft brewery blends industrial charm with vineyard views, and an all-American inspired menu. It’s laid-back, friendly, and full of character—just like the region.

Afternoon:

Take on the southernmost stretch of the Kiama Coast Walk. Starting at the northern end of Werri Beach, cross the lagoon and follow the grassy, clifftop walking track as far as feels comfortable.

Evening:

Check into The Bunker House – A sleek, architecturally designed retreat perched above the ocean in Gerringong. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass-sided swimming pool, it exudes minimalist luxury.

Dinner

Just minutes away, The Hill Bar and Kitchen serves up seasonal dishes with a panoramic view. Expect warm lighting, local produce, and a central fireplace to keep you cosy all night.

DAY 2

Morning:

Head north to Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park – Grab a takeaway coffee from The Farm Kiosk and wander down to ‘The Farm’, a local surf haven with wild beauty.

Mid-Morning:

Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience – Join a cultural workshop or bush tucker tour with local Aboriginal guides. It’s immersive, educational, and deeply grounding.
Pop into Bass Point Reserve for a coastal walk and dive into Bushrangers Bay – a snorkelling and scuba diving haven, brimming with marine life, tidal rock pools perfect to snap a photo or seven of the stunning natural surrounds.

Lunch:

The Ocean Beach Hotel is tucked in Shellhabour Village – boasting epic water views and serving traditional pub fare, lunch is sure to be an enjoyable experience.

Afternoon:

HARS Aviation Museum is only minutes down the road. Take a tour of historical aircraft where some planes still fly today. Step on board ‘Connie’ the Super Constellation – airline of the 1950s and learn about the insightful history of aviation. Talk to enthusiastic volunteers and take on the Wing Walk and step out onto the wing of a Qantas Boeing 747. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Take to the sky in a real ex-military L-36 jet fighter plane for some sky-high aerobatic fun with Jetflight – an adventure you’ll never forget.

Evening:

Check in to Argo Serviced Apartments North Wollongong, for sun-drenched spaces with sweeping city and ocean views, only moments from the city’s buzzing streets.
What might look like a surf club is also home to The Boathouse North Wollongong. With water views and local produce, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the evening.

DAY 3

Morning:

Rise early and take on the Mount Keira Ring Track – a peaceful rainforest loop that is lush, quiet, and offers panoramic views over the Illawarra.
Grab a coffee at the on-site café enjoy the slower pace at Wollongong Botanic Garden. Explore the rainforest gully and duck pond—tranquil, green, and full of hidden corners.

Lunch:

Follow the Grand Pacific Drive north through Wollongong’s coastal suburbs, before stopping at Thirroul’s South Sailor for a seafood extravaganza.
Head up Bulli pass, and inland for a rustic, flavour-filled finale at Darkes Cider Orchard. Enjoy a cider tasting paddle, pick up some local apple products, and if the timing’s right—join a seasonal orchard tour. Head home with a boot full of cider and a camera roll full of hidden gems.

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The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

An Arty Escape

Wollongong, Southern Highlands + Shoalhaven

DAY 1

Morning:

Grab a coffee and a bagel at Opus Coffee Brewers, and enjoy their light-filled CBD space.
Stop at Wollongong Art Gallery – explore their collections, take in their rotating selection of exhibitions, or engage with creatives through a series of talks and workshops.

Late Morning:

Ngununggula Regional Gallery – Nestled in the grounds of Retford Park, this contemporary gallery is a cultural gem – a heritage-sensitive, state-of-the-art gallery offering a broad range of arts and cultural experiences.
Have a little extra time? Explore Retford Park’s sculpture garden.

Midday:

The Surveyor General Inn – Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn, serving up hearty pub fare with heritage charm. Think roaring fireplaces, rustic beams, and a glass of local red to warm your soul.

Afternoon:

Peppers Manor House – Check in to this elegant country estate. With its open fireplaces, manicured gardens, and old-world charm, it’s the perfect winter cocoon.
Bendooley Estate – A quick stop to browse the Book Barn, grab a coffee or enjoy a wine-tasting fireside.

Evening:

Eschalot Restaurant – A hatted dining experience in a historic sandstone cottage. Think candlelight, local produce, and a glass of Pinot by the fire. From an a la carte menu to an 8-course chef’s selection, you’re in for a truly memorable experience.

DAY 2

Morning:

Pick up a coffee and a locally-sourced breakfast snack from The What If Society in Moss Vale, then wind your way through misty valleys and rolling hills down through Kangaroo Valley and on to the Shoalhaven.

Mid-Morning:

Arrive at Bundanon Art Museum – A cultural and architectural highlight. Explore Arthur Boyd’s legacy, including the homestead, Boyd Gallery and the rotating contemporary exhibitions, as well as the stunning building that houses it all.
Take in the scenery from their on-site eatery, Ramox Café.

Afternoon:

Located in the heart of Nowra, the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery is home to an ever-changing roster of multi-modal works. Explore the exhibition, wander the courtyard and pick up something unique from the gallery gift shop.
Take the scenic Grand Pacific Drive route north, stopping at some of the many wineries along the way for a tasting or take-away – each with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Evening:

Check in to Bangalay Luxury Villas, enjoy cocktails poolside or take a walk along Seven Mile Beach, or through the nearby National Park.
Book in to Bangalay Dining for your final dinner – a hatted restaurant with native ingredients only steps from the sand. The perfect winter lunch spot—refined, relaxed, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you sleep in and make use of the space for a remote working day, or hit the road and head home, the villas are the perfect place to relax.

road trip ideas

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An Arty Escape

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Salt Air & Soft Trails

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From Water to Wine

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Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

Relax & Recharge the Senses

Shoalhaven, Shellharbour + Southern Highlands

DAY 1

Morning:

Start with a sauna or ice bath at The Heal Zone – Reboot your body with a guided contrast therapy session. The perfect way to shake off the city and reconnect with your senses.
Brunch at Milk Haus – A wholefood café in a converted dairy, serving up nourishing, seasonal dishes in a relaxed garden setting.

Late Morning:

Sea Kayaking with Jervis Bay Kayak & Paddlesports – Glide across the calm, clear waters of the bay. It’s peaceful, meditative, and a beautiful way to connect with nature.

Afternoon:

Cultural Nature Walk with Gadhungal Marring – Learn about Country, culture, and connection on a guided walk led by local Aboriginal custodians. A grounding and enriching experience.

Evening:

Check in at Paperbark Camp – Nestled among paperbarks and eucalypts, this luxury glamping retreat offers open-air ensuites, candlelit paths, and the soothing sounds of the bush.
Dinner at The Gunyah Restaurant – Dine in the treetops with a seasonal, locally sourced menu. Expect native ingredients, warm lighting, and a peaceful, immersive experience.

DAY 2

Morning:

Breakfast at Blak Cede Gunyah Café – an Aboriginal women-led social and cultural enterprise which puts traditional bush foods on the menu.

Morning:

Head inland through lush countryside to the charming village of Bundanoon, nestled on the edge of Morton National Park. Take the Fairy Bower Falls Scenic Circuit, an adventurous 2.4km loop through rainforest and sandstone escarpments. The trail leads to a stunning waterfall and lookout all to yourself, with birdsong and trickling creeks as your soundtrack

Midday:

Explore the historic village of Berrima, filled with unique shops and some of the region’s top restaurants and pubs. Stop for lunch at the historic Taylor’s Inn which boasts the region’s largest fireplace and private sandstone dining rooms, or opt for something light from one of the many local bakeries.

Afternoon:

Check in at Peppers Manor House, a boutique hotel set in a restored country manor. Curl up by the fireplace in the lounge or your suite, sip on a glass of local wine, and let the stillness of the Highlands settle in, or take a Scenic Driving Tour through the surrounding villages, or wander the village to explore boutiques like into Suzie Anderson’s two homeware stores.

Evening:

Wander around to Flour Bar, a bakery, wine bar and deli to indulge in an intimate dining experience. Work your way through the menu, or take on the tasting menu and let the chefs decide.

DAY 3

Morning:

Wake up early and to experience the misty mornings along the tourist drive from Bowral to Robertson as you head to the coast. Stop in Robertson, check out the Big Potato’s grand new look and grab a takeaway breakfast of fresh baked croissants and house-made sourdough toasties from Moonacres Kitchen before you decent down the escarpment.
Halfway down Macquarie Pass National Park, stop in at Cascades Walk, a rainforest walk (1.6km return) through lush greenery to a stunning waterfall – the perfect way to gently awaken the senses before heading to the coast.

Midday:

Snorkelling at Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve – Dive into the crystal-clear waters of this protected marine sanctuary, part of Bass Point Reserve, and explore the vibrant world beneath the waves. On land there is plenty to discover too, including the Indigenous Cultural Walk, the coastal walking tracks and rocky platforms bursting with marine life.
Grab a bite to eat at the Farm Kiosk in Killalea Regional Park. Run by chef Mark Olive, featuring an Indigenous-inspired menu, with stunning views over The Farm Beach.

Afternoon:

Lake Illawarra Art Trail – Stroll the scenic lakeside path dotted with public art installations, sculptures, and interpretive signs. This gentle walk blends creativity with nature, offering moments of reflection and inspiration along the water’s edge, before hitting the road and heading home.

road trip ideas

Itinerary

Family Getaway Itinerary

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Hidden Gems Escape

Itinerary

An Arty Escape

Itinerary

Relax & Recharge the Senses

Itinerary

Foodies’ Delight

Itinerary

Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

Itinerary

Salt Air & Soft Trails

Itinerary

From Water to Wine

Itinerary

Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

Foodies’ Delight

Wollongong, Southern Highlands, Shoalhaven

DAY 1

Morning:

Brunch at Diggies North Wollongong – A beachside institution with fresh, seasonal dishes, great coffee and even better views.

Midday:

Take a trip northbound on the Grand Pacific Drive and walk the Sea Cliff Bridge – park up, and truly take in the expansive views before heading to the Imperial at Clifton for lunch.

Evening:

Enjoy Wollongong’s small bar scene, wandering the CBD and exploring the likes of Globe Lane to find inviting hole-in-the-wall venues with epic menus.
Dinner at Restaurant Santino (Wollongong CBD) – Modern Italian with a moody, intimate vibe and a menu that celebrates local produce and with an Italian twist.
Overnight at Hotel TOTTO Wollongong – A stylish, centrally located boutique hotel perfect for a restful night.

DAY 2

Morning

Brunch at Franquette Creperie – a French-inspired creperie, serving up traditional creations in the heart of historic Bowral. Take a post-meal wander, exploring boutiques and arcades like The Acre to uncover hidden delights.

Late Morning-Afternoon:

Jump on board a tour of local wineries with a local operator Tasting Tours Co, Vino Rosso Tours or Grape Escape Wine Tours to explore some of the region’s 20+ wineries and distilleries, including St Maur Winery, Artemis Wines, Dawning Day Farms, Joadja Estate, Joadja Distillery, Sohi Spirits, Eden Brewery, Millsheds Distillery and Cherry Tree Hill Wines.
Indulge in a fireside lunch, with a perfectly paired drop at Centennial Vineyard.

Evening:

Dinner at Harry’s on Green Lane – A botanical-inspired dining room tucked behind a bookshop, Harry’s offers a seasonal menu with European flair, surrounded by lush greenery and vintage charm. It’s intimate, elegant, and a truly delightful experience.
Overnight at Peppers Craigieburn – A grand manor house set on a historic estate, with open fireplaces, manicured gardens, and a warm country-luxe atmosphere. Perfect for a glass of red by the fire to round out the day of wineries.

DAY 3

Morning – Bowral:

Grab a coffee and light snack at The Press Shop – Start your day with a perfectly brewed coffee and a pastry at this beautifully styled café-meets-boutique. It’s cosy, elegant, and a local favourite.

Late Morning – Berry:

High Tea at The Berry Tea Shop – A charming and intimate tea room offering a curated high tea experience with delicate sandwiches, scones, and a selection of their signature loose-leaf teas.

Early Afternoon – Berry:

Lunch at South on Albany – A hatted restaurant with a seasonal, produce-driven menu. Expect refined flavours, warm service, and a relaxed, elegant setting.

Mid-Afternoon – Shoalhaven Heads:

Wine Tasting at Two Figs Winery – Perched above the Shoalhaven River, this boutique winery offers sweeping views and beautifully crafted wines. A perfect final toast to your foodie escape.

Evening – Berry:

Check in at The Berry View – A stylish, retro-inspired boutique motel in the heart of town. Unwind, explore the village, or enjoy a quiet night in.

Next Morning – Departure:

Grab a coffee for the road from iv, and head towards home.

road trip ideas

Itinerary

Family Getaway Itinerary

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Hidden Gems Escape

Itinerary

An Arty Escape

Itinerary

Relax & Recharge the Senses

Itinerary

Foodies’ Delight

Itinerary

Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

Itinerary

Salt Air & Soft Trails

Itinerary

From Water to Wine

Itinerary

Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

Kiama, Shellharbour + Southern Highlands

DAY 1

Evening:

Dinner at Silica Kiama – Enjoy a refined, oceanfront meal with seasonal produce and a warm, coastal atmosphere.
Check in at Cicada Luxury Camping – Glamp in style under the stars with a firepit, plush bedding, and views of the escarpment.

DAY 2

Morning:

Enjoy breakfast at Farmer’s Table and enjoy a paddock-to-plate menu in the historic terrace houses.
Wander through ancient Minnamurra Rainforest, following the pathway past wandering wildlife to the cascading waterfall at the top. The misty winter air makes it feel like a fairytale.

Continue up the mountain, stopping at Carrington Falls then to the village of Robertson. Take a quick selfie at the Big Potato (currently painted pink in celebration of the 30^th anniversary of the film, Babe which was filmed in the region) and browse the local shops and galleries.

Midday:

Lunch at Bendooley Estate – Dine in the book barn or cellar door restaurant, surrounded by vineyards and fireplaces. Be sure to pick up a bottle to take home with you.

Afternoon:

Retford Park Gardens – Wander through the manicured winter gardens and historic estate grounds before heading home back down Macquarie Pass.

Evening:

Overnight at Marina Vista – Waterfront Apartment – watch the crips morning colours of sunrise over the boat harbour from your own private balcony with a warm cosy blanket and a hot cup of coffee.

DAY 3

Morning:

Drive to Shellharbour Village for a light breakfast at J’s on the Deck, eat-in or grab takeaway and wander to the nearby boat harbour to enjoy the view.

Mid-Morning:

Enjoy a coastal walk through Killalea Regional Park where you can breathe in the fresh crisp air and take a stroll along the clifftop and head down to the water’s edge to see why it has been recognised as a National Surfing Reserve and Australia’s second-best beach in 2024.
Get on board a Whale Watching Cruise with Shellharbour Wild departing from Shellharbour Marina for an intimate and immersive encounter with humpback whales as they glide through the ocean just metres away.

Midday:

Lunch at The Waterfront Tavern – Indulge in their signature seafood platter, freshly shucked oysters or their refined take on bistro classics in an impressive waterfront venue, complete with uninterrupted views of the Shellharbour Marina.

Afternoon

Explore Bass Point Reserve & Bushrangers Bay – one of the most interesting archaeological sites on the NSW coast with its dramatic rocky platform abundant with marine life, and coastal bushland. Ideal for a peaceful walk and some winter wildlife spotting, or take a dive into Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve to see the marine life before heading home.

road trip ideas

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An Arty Escape

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Relax & Recharge the Senses

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Foodies’ Delight

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Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

Itinerary

Salt Air & Soft Trails

Itinerary

From Water to Wine

Itinerary

Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

Salt Air & Soft Trails

Shoalhaven, Shellharbour + Wollongong

DAY 1

Morning:

Start your day at Killalea Beach (‘The Farm’) – Grab a coffee from The Farm Kiosk, owned by chef Mark Olive, and take in the views from the top, or head down to the water’s edge to see why it has been recognised as a National Surfing Reserve and Australia’s second best beach in 2024.
Brunch at Georgia Rose at the Shellharbour Marina – a light-filled space, right by the marina. Wander along the waterfront, and along the boardwalk out the break wall for stunning views up and down the coastline.

Late Morning:

Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Illawarra – gentle, scenic, and a great way to explore the South Coast’s stunning waterways, you may even get to say hello to the local seals.

Mid-Afternoon:

Stop for lunch at Relish on Addison, in the heart of Shellharbour Village where award winning chef Tom Laws delicately prepares contemporary Australian flavours highlighting the best of local produce and delicious seafood.
Drive south to Shoalhaven (about 1.5 hours) and check in at Bay and Bush Jervis Bay.

Afternoon:

Explore the White Sands Walk in Jervis Bay – a soft adventure highlight with some of the whitest sands in the world.
Stop at Jervis Bay Brewing Co. for a refreshing craft beer and relaxed vibes.

Evening:

Dinner at The Gunyah at Paperbark Camp to make your childhood dreams come true in a treehouse-style restaurant surrounded by bushland, with an ever-changing menu.
Take a short drive to the white sands of Jervis Bay for a dark sky stargazing experience with Jervis Bay Stargazing, led by an astrophysicist.
Dream the night at Bay and Bush Jervis Bay, with cottages nestled across 27 acres of pristine Australian bush for a luxe, nature-immersed experience.

DAY 2

Morning:

Start with a sunrise paddle or kayak tour with Jervis Bay Kayak & Paddlesports – keep an eye out for local pods of seals and dolphins.
Breakfast at Blak Cede Gunyah Café in Nowra – a meaningful and delicious stop before following the Grand Pacific Drive north.

Mid-Morning:

Stop in at the Nan Tien Temple – wander the grounds, take a moment of stillness in the mediation hall, or visit the tea house.

Through Wollongong and its two lighthouses,

Lunch:

Headlands Hotel in Austinmer – oceanfront dining with a modern Australian menu and a laid-back vibe.

Afternoon:

Stop at Sublime Point Lookout or Sea Cliff Bridge for breathtaking views and a short walk to stretch your legs, before heading home.

road trip ideas

Itinerary

Family Getaway Itinerary

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Hidden Gems Escape

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An Arty Escape

Itinerary

Relax & Recharge the Senses

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Foodies’ Delight

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Winter Wonderland for Nature Lovers

Itinerary

Salt Air & Soft Trails

Itinerary

From Water to Wine

Itinerary

Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

Follow us @grandpacificdrive

02 4267 5910

Email us

From Water to Wine

Kiama, Southern Highlands + Shoalhaven

DAY 1

Evening:

Slide into the weekend with a glass of something fabulous and a few share plates at Little Betty’s a chic wine bar in the heart of Kiama.
A stylish and central stay The Sebel Harbourside Kiama offers harbour views – perfect for a relaxed nightcap and a good night’s sleep before the adventure really begins.

DAY 2

Morning:

Visit the Kiama Blowhole + Rock Pool – a classic coastal icon where you can watch the sea put on a show as it blasts through the rock, then get salty at the nearby ocean pool.
Stretch your legs with a scenic stroll along part of the Kiama Coast Walk – follow the cliffs, around the harbour, past Storm Bay and around the seaside Showground to find your breakfast location.
Making its home in an unassuming cottage, Slow Dough pumps out sourdough everything – focaccia, croissants, pastries, and perfectly brewed Little Marrionette coffee. Take a seat in their rustic garden courtyard – one bite and you’ll know exactly why everyone’s talking.

Late Morning:

A coastal vineyard with sweeping views and a relaxed cellar door, Crooked River Wines provides a true taste of the South Coast. Stick around for their a la carte lunch service or stop by The Hill Bar and Kitchen’s Kiosk to grab a delicious snack for your road trip west.

Midday:

Take the inland route via Carrington Falls or Belmore Falls —both offer short crisp walks, perfect for winter, with dramatic drops and lush surrounds they’re uber instagrammable.

Afternoon:

Book a guided wine tour to visit multiple cellar doors like Centennial Vineyards, Bendooley Estate, and PepperGreen Estate. Let someone else do the driving while you enjoy cool-climate wines and charming countryside hospitality.

Evening:

Indulge in Pure Southern Highlands luxury Bundanoon’s Osborn House with all the winter trimmings including a day spa, heated pool and sauna, fire feast dining and their signature Forest Bathing deck complete with ice bath, jacuzzi and fire pit. Indulge in pure GRAND style.

DAY 3

Morning:

Ngununggula Regional Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in historic dairy of the James Fairfax estate. Small, stylish, and thoughtfully curated – it’s an ideal slow Sunday start, complemented by a breakfast at on-site Moonacre’s Hearth café.

Late Morning:

Wind your way down through Kangaroo Valley and Nowra, arriving in time for your next water adventure. Leave plenty of time to enjoy the scenic countryside of rolling green hills and escarpment views that connects the hinterland to the coast.

Mid-Afternoon:

Join Jervis Bay Wild for a front-row seat to the humpback migration. The bay’s crystal-clear waters make for spectacular viewing.

Late Afternoon:

A hole-in-the-wall wine bar and European-inspired pantry store Small Town Provisions is the perfect to pick up a bottle or two and some gourmet snacks for the road (or your home-away-from-home).

Evening:

Check into one of Cupitt’s Estate luxe villas, soak in the outdoor bath, enjoy a sunset wine tasting, and dine at their award-winning restaurant. What better way to toast the end of your grand weekend escape.

road trip ideas

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Hidden Gems Escape

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An Arty Escape

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Relax & Recharge the Senses

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Salt Air & Soft Trails

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From Water to Wine

Itinerary

Romantic Getaway

Inspiration

The Ultimate Winter Road Trip

Dont miss these events

Christmas in Winter

23 June - 31 July

Pie Trail

1-30 June

Winter Solstice at the Marina

20-22 June

Enchanted Forest – Tides of Treasure

30 May - 22 June

Kiama Winter Street Festival

Winter Wine Festival

7-8 June

Here's what your grand escape could look like...

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Romantic Getaway

Romantic Getaway Itinerary

Southern Highlands, Shoalhaven + Kiama

DAY 1

Morning:

Ngununggula Regional Gallery – Begin your escape with a quiet wander through this contemporary gallery nestled in the grounds of Retford Park. Art, architecture, and a peaceful setting set the tone for a thoughtful, slow-paced day. Grab a coffee and fresh-baked snack at the on-site Moonacres Hearth café.
Head to Centennial Vineyards and wander through the vines before enjoying a tasting of their estate-grown wines

Lunch:

Bistro Sociale – a French-inspired bistro and gin bar, tucked away in the historic Berida Hotel.

Afternoon:

Wind your way through misty valleys and rolling hills. Stop at Fitzroy Falls for a short walk and a photo op, or simply enjoy the drive through Kangaroo Valley and on to the southern section of the Grand Pacific Drive.

Evening:

Perched on the headland overlooking Mollymook Beach, you’ll find Bannisters by the Sea – a luxurious, coastal stay.
Book in for sundowner cocktails and a seafood dinner at the renowned Rick Stein’s on-site restaurant, and dine to the sound of the waves crashing nearby.

DAY 2

Morning:

Milton’s MilkHaus is set just out of town, featuring a farm-to-table menu in a rural setting. Fuel up before hitting the road and heading north.

Mid-Morning:

Buena Vista Farm – start with a slow wander through this working farm, before really getting to understand your food with an on-farm cooking workshop.

Lunch:

Stop by Little Betty’s for an afternoon cocktail and an ever-changing share-style menu before hitting the road and heading home. Take the scenic route back along the Grand Pacific Drive.