From the hustle and bustle of Sydney to the tranquillity of Batemans Bay, this iconic South Coast road trip is a great way to step away from the urban frenzy and discover the beauty of regional Australia. The seaside town of Batemans Bay should be an essential destination on every travel list. With some of the most stunning views in the country and plenty of attractions along the way, this is one trip you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags and hit the road; a journey to Batemans Bay awaits!
Road Distance: 275km via Princes Highway A1/M1
Driving Time: 4 hours
Where: From Sydney (NSW) to Batemans Bay (NSW)
Duration: 5-10 days
Getting There - Sydney to Batemans Bay
Car
A direct trip from Sydney to Batemans Bay will take you all of four hours, with a driving distance of 275km straight down the Princes Highway (A1/M1). Head straight to Batemans Bay and enjoy the beauty of Eurobodalla, or make a few stops along the way to really make the most of your trip. Heading there by car means you can take things at your own pace, enjoying the beautiful ocean views, stopping by the Royal National Park and exploring the plethora of hidden gems that the South Coast has to offer.
Wollongong
The road trip from Sydney to Batemans Bay begins with a scenic drive through the Illawarra region, home to the city of Wollongong. Just 90 minutes south of Sydney (via Princes Highway), Wollongong is the perfect pitstop on your roadtrip to Eurobodalla. When in Wollongong, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Spend the morning strolling along beautiful Wollongong Harbour, taking a quick detour to Wollongong Lighthouse to take in the panoramic views of the city. Before you get back on the road, take a stroll (or stop for a picnic) among the lush greenery at the Wollongong Botanic Garden.
Image: Main Beach Wollongong (credit Destination NSW)
Kiama
Just 30 minutes south of Wollongong is the charming coastal town of Kiama. This beautiful area is home to some of the most memorable attractions in the region, from the iconic Kiama Blowhole to the stunning Kiama Harbour. Spend the day exploring the rocky coastline and ambling along the Kiama Coastal Walk, or head to Bombo Beach and take a dip in the crystal clear waters. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants in town, where you can sample some of the local produce.
Image: Kiama Blowhole Point (credit Destination NSW)
Berry
Following the coastline 20 minutes south from Kiama, you’ll find the small historic town of Berry. Famous for its charming boutiques, antique stores, lolly and ice cream shops and independent cafes, Berry has something for everyone. Visitors also take a stroll through the Berry Heritage Park, which is home to a collection of restored Victorian and Edwardian buildings. If you’re stopping by on a Thursday, don’t forget to pop into their weekly Farmers Markets between 2pm and 5pm to get a taste of their fresh produce.
Image: Silos Estate, Berry (credit Destination NSW)
Nowra
Gateway to the beautiful Shoalhaven region, Nowra offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Wander along the banks of the Shoalhaven River or pop into a local museum or gallery to learn the history of the area. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Jervis Bay which is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and opportunities for swimming, fishing and kayaking.
Image: Hanging Rock Lookout, Nowra (credit Destination NSW)
Milton
The next stop on your road trip is the charming village of Milton, located just south of Nowra. The town’s main street is lined with quaint local shops and restaurants, offering a variety of options for all tastes. When stopping through this historic district, take time to admire the architecture of the old houses and buildings that Milton is known for.
Ulladulla
Ulladulla is a great place to relax and take a break after a few hours of driving. Enjoy the stunning beaches, explore the Wildflower Reserve, or enjoy some shopping at the harbour markets. Ulladulla is also home to the beautiful Ulladulla Harbour Beach and the nearby Pigeon House Mountain, which offers a challenging hike for those looking for an adventure. When heading south to Batemans Bay, don’t forget to stop by Murramarang National Park for views that are truly like no other.
Bus Services
Catching a bus or coach from Sydney to Batemans Bay is a cost-effective and convenient option for those looking to explore the New South Wales coastline. Gaze out the window at the rolling hills and crashing waves of the coast, or enjoy a quick walk through local towns when the bus stops. There are several bus companies that operate regular services between Sydney and Batemans Bay, with a journey time of around 4 hours. The buses are comfortable and well-equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi and charging outlets.
Additionally, some bus companies (like Premier Motor Service) offer hop-on hop-off travel options, which allow you to explore the coast at your own pace. With this option, you can stop at different towns and villages along the way, and continue your journey when you’re ready. This allows you to spend more time in the places that interest you the most and make the most out of your trip. This option also allows you to plan your own itinerary and tailor your journey to your preferences.
| Note: If you’re looking for the ultimate South Coast road trip, you might be interested in exploring the Eurobodalla region. If you’re coming from Sydney, you can follow the guides above, or you can take a direct flight from Sydney airport to Moruya airport, where you can hire a car and enjoy the region at your own pace. |
Batemans Bay
When you finally reach Batemans Bay, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of the town. This picturesque coastal spot is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, lush national parks, and charming local culture.
The stunning coastline and boardwalk are perfect for fishing and swimming, with numerous secluded beaches just a short drive from the main area. We recommend visitors take a detour to Malua Bay for a family-friendly beach experience. For those seeking adventure, kayaking tours offer a unique vantage point to explore the nearby islands and bays.
The region is also home to several natural wonders, such as the wildlife-filled nature reserves and hiking trails at Corrigans Beach Reserve, the Eurobodalla National Park and Murramarang National Park. These areas provide ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take in breathtaking views. Foodies will be thrilled with the diverse range of dining options available in Batemans Bay, from seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants with ocean views. Visitors can choose from a range of lovely hotels, motels, residential stays or holiday parks to end their day.
Eurobodalla Region
If you’re heading down south or you want to keep your road trip going, spend some time in Eurobodalla for the best south coast road trip in Australia. This hidden region boasts mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal road trip destination year-round. Despite being a compact region, it is best to take a few days to fully take in its beauty. Take the Coast Road south, dropping into the seaside locales of Batehaven, Tomakin and Broulee for beach days that are like no other. Alternatively, head down the Princes Highway, stopping by Mogo Wildlife Park, take a charter to Barunguba Montague Island off the coast of Narooma and walk Gulaga Mountain (Dromedary) near Tilba Tilba. No matter where you go, you’re guaranteed to experience the beauty and culture that Eurobodalla is known for.
