18 Best Sydney To Wollongong Road Trip Stops
The road trip from Sydney to Wollongong is only 90 kilometres of direct travel and gives you the opportunity to explore a scenic portion of the Grand Pacific Drive. Therefore, It can quickly be done in a day, but time increases depending on what you want to do with the selection below.
I’ve visited Sydney a few times over the past 15 years. While I’ve only briefly touched on this area of New South Wales, I’m definitely planning to do a lot more in the future. I think it’s one of the best scenic drives in New South Wales, so please read on below to check out my list of stops!
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Sydney to Wollongong Road Trip Stops & Map
The Sydney to Wollongong road trip is definitely worth a look as a beautiful south coast drive with plenty of rewarding pit stops and pristine beaches. The stunning coastline boasts magnificent views, hiking and are great for taking photos or just simply relaxing.
It’s a 1.5 hours to drive (direct) between Sydney and Wollongong, but plan for a bit longer if you have plenty of stops to make!
(Please click here for the specially pinned Map to open or apply directions from your location)
➡ Compare prices for Sydney Booking.com Hotels HERE. And if your looking for things to do, then click HERE for Get your Guide, or with Viator HERE.
1. Deeban Spit
Deeban Spit lies on the outskirts of the Royal National Park (close to Bundeena and Maainbar), and our first stop today. Its shallow waters are a crucial source of sustenance for migratory birds that appear during low tide, while seagrass beds provide shelter for many fish species inhabiting the area.
I chose to visit this area for the photos and get creative with the drone, but you might like it for swimming or chilling out beside the water.
2. Karloo Rock Pools
The wild swims and stunning scenery at Karloo Pools in the Royal National Park make this area a highlight for locals and tourists alike. Visitors enjoy wild swimming in its crystal clear, natural waters on hot days while they soak up the lush bushland surroundings.
There’s also an easy-going walking track that winds its way around the pool area, giving visitors a chance to take in all of nature’s delights as they make their way along the trail. It’s a great spot to add to your itinerary when you visit this magical part of New South Wales!
3. Wedding Cake Rock
Wedding Cake Rock is a sandstone rock formation located in the Royal National Park near Bundeena. You’ll need to drive to Beachcomber Avenue to access the Royal Coastal walk, but it’s conveniently 2-wheel drive accessible.
The walking track to Wedding Cake Rock will be 6.8 kilometres return, and I recommend using the toilets available at the start of the walk. It will take roughly 2 hours to return walk and will require comfortable closed-in footwear.
The Wedding Cake Rock is one of many rock formations and is suspended 25 metres (82 ft) above sea level. Its also noted for its scenic location, tourist popularity, and an attractive location for photography.
Stepping onto the rock was closed off from Direct public access in May 2015 after a survey conducted determined that the rock was unstable. As a result, it’s believed that Wedding Cake Rock will collapse into the Tasman Sea within the next decade.
Note: You are advised not to walk beyond the fencing, stand or sit on the rock because it’s dangerously unstable.
➡ Compare prices for Royal National Park tours HERE with Viator.
4. Royal Coast Track (Royal National Park Multi-day hiking)
The Royal Coast Track is a wonderful hiking trail to experience. This 26km one-way track can take up to two days to complete. This depends on your pace and the amount of time you want to spend admiring the beautiful coastlines, landscapes, and rock formations of this loved park.
The 6km section that begins between Wattamolla and Garie Beach is particularly stunning, with its uninterrupted views across the ocean making it well worth visiting. Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls are a big part of this and are really impressive after some rain.
5. Figure 8 Pools
The Figure 8 Pools are located on a dangerous rock shelf in the Royal National Park, south of Burning Palms Beach. It’s a long and hard 6-kilometre walk ( about 4 to 5 hours) through steep, narrow, and slippery sections of the coastline (return on the same track).
Not only that, but gaining access to pools should only be done at the lowest tide and timed strategically (forecast here.), including the walk.
Be warned, it’s not suitable for young children or prams. If you are in doubt, don’t go; waves could crash over the shelf at any time and you can see first-hand what can happen in this YouTube video.
6. The Symbio Wildlife Park
The Symbio Wildlife Park is a must-see if you’re looking for an experience like no other. With the chance to interact with animals up close, it’s one of the most unique attractions in the area.
You can feed Aussie kangaroos, pet wallabies, and even take photos with koalas! Plus, there’s an exciting Splash Park With a large dump bucket, multiple water fountains, and squirters. As well as an intriguing snake tunnel to explore, brilliant for cooling off in the summer heat.
Check out my Photo Gallery for sample tourism images needed for websites, blog posts, magazines articles, Marketing and/or Advertisement’s.
7. Bald Hills Lookout over Stanwell Park
Bald Hill Lookout is often referred to as Stanwell Tops lookout on Otford road. This free car park lookout spot gives you superb views and your first look at the famous Sea Cliff Bridge (in the distance). Be prepared for gusty winds as you travel up high to the lookout and view over the gorgeous countryside scenery of Hill End.
Consider bringing some blankets to keep yourself warm in cooler months or in the evenings, so you can stay and watch the sunset to the west. There is also some seating at the top of the summit, so be sure to bring a hamper to enjoy a picnic with scenic views.
8. Paragliding from Stanwell tops
Get excited about adrenalin-pumped paragliding adventures. Paragliding from the iconic Stanwell tops offers unparalleled thrills and excitement. The stunning coastal views of Stanwell Beach and astonishing panoramas of the Royal National Park provide a magnificent backdrop during your glide.
➡ Book your Hand Gliding experience HERE with Viator.
It’s an unbeatable adventure that calls for those brave enough to experience both the adrenaline rush of soaring through the air and taking in some of the most beautiful sights nature has to offer!
9. Sea Cliff Bridge
The Sea Cliff Bridge opened in December 2005 and is located in the northern Illawarra region. The $52 million balanced cantilever bridge links the coastal villages of Coalcliff and Clifton.
It features two lanes of traffic, a cycleway, and a walkway and is known as a feature of the scenic Lawrence Hargrave Drive. It’s one of only seven off-shore parallel-to-coast bridges in the world.
There are only a few spots to park along this section, but if you get one, you can walk along and explore the bridge. It’s also a great viewing platform for migrating whales in certain seasons.
10. Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout
Firstly, this is one of the absolute best views of the Sea Cliff Bridge, but it’s not always advisable to do it. The path is free and will only take 30 to 40 minutes to complete, but it is not necessarily the safest to climb.
You can click here for my Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout blog to get a more detailed description of the pathway. But also note that areas of these cliffs are unstable and due to landslips and other safety concerns, there are warnings against trying to find it. Therefore, climb at your own risk, and please don’t take children!
11. Coledale Rock Pool
The Coledale Rock Pool creates a stunning coastal landscape as it stands against the ocean waters. This ocean pool has an impressive 50m length, perfect for swimming and basking in the surrounding oceanic environment.
The depth of the pool ranges from 1.2 meters at its shallow end to nearly 1.5m at its deep side. If you’re looking for ocean action without being too far from shore, this is the ideal spot! Whether you prefer lounging poolside or doing laps in a glorious ocean setting, this is the best way to kick off your summer holidays, and the kids will love it!
12. Wollongong
Wollongong is informally referred to as “The Gong.” It’s New South Wales’s third largest city and located 68 kilometres south of the capital. Discover a beachside buzz, extensive cycleways, and lots of adventures. You could also be tempted by Keira Street’s ‘eat street.’ As well as Kayaking, sailing, water skiing, and fishing can be popular in this waterway.
➡ Find Wollongong tours HERE with Viator, or Hotels HERE on Booking.com
In addition, it has an exciting events calendar of festivals, shows, concerts, exhibitions, and markets. Not to mention, there are lots of accommodation options, from beachside hotels to camping sites beside the ocean or Lake Illawarra.
13. Lighthouse
The Lighthouse is a beacon of light that stands tall and proud at 12 metres! It was built in 1871 and served as an important navigational aid until it was made inactive almost a century later, in 1974.
Although the lighthouse is no longer active, its legacy remains powerful today, with stunning views of the iconic coastline from its vantage point. Its lush, green surround makes it the perfect spot for a lunchtime picnic while visiting this picturesque part of Australia.
14. Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens is where gardeners and plant lovers can learn about the conservation of native plants and animals. In contrast, homeowners can learn how to save water and energy with sustainable living techniques.
For those wanting a more leisurely visit, there are plenty of spots to relax. For example, you could walk down the winding paths, through the shaded gardens, or around the ponds to city views. From large gathering events to intimate picnics, this is definitely an excellent place for visitors to explore!
15. Nan Tien Temple
The Nan Tien Temple is Australia’s largest Buddhist temple complex and a stunning example of Buddhist architecture. Located in the Illawarra region, the Buddhist temple complex spans several large acres, featuring beautiful courtyards, shrines, and pavilions that offer breath-taking views of the picturesque landscape.
Whether you’re looking to explore ancient Buddhist cultural heritage or just want to enjoy some quiet contemplation among nature, Nan Tien Temple is a must-see destination in New South Wales.
16. Port Kembla Beach
Port Kembla Beach, located south of Wollongong, is one of the city’s most prestigious beaches. It’s known for its best-in-class facilities like the Olympic Pool and much-acclaimed scenic views.
In addition, the beach features a newly upgraded cycleway, making it an ideal spot for cyclists, skateboarders, and those who wish to take a leisurely stroll. On top of that, Port Kembla Beach also has fantastic spots for recreational activities such as swimming and surfing – perfect for thrill-seekers looking for some fun!
17. Illawarra Museum
The Illawarra Museum offers a unique opportunity for the local community to interact with its history. This museum is volunteer-run and prides itself on being an extensive resource of local-history information, both ancient and modern.
Through its wide array of displays, educational talks, and interactive events, visitors receive an in-depth look into various aspects of the area’s culture and identity. So check it out if you’re looking for a more personal experience that allows you to really dig into some of Australia’s hidden gems.
18. The Grand Pacific Drive
The Grand Pacific Drive is a 140km central coast drive in Australia that starts at the Royal National Park to Shoalhaven (100km south of Wollongong). While this is a lot further than our road trip today, it is definitely worth mentioning if you’re considering extending it.
There are plenty of extra highlights to see on the road to Shoalhaven. This would include the Blow hole of Kiama, the beautiful beaches in Jervis Bay, and the Shoalhaven Zoo.
Do you need to hire a car?
Hiring a car for this journey is definitely worth it, as you can take your time and enjoy the journey. On this sealed road, all you need is a 2WD vehicle, and with several car hire companies throughout the region offering various packages. You can easily find the right one that fits your budget.
➡ Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE
I had my own car for this occasion, but found the smaller 4 cylinder car was easy to get around and fit into obscure parking places.
Where to Stay?
As one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, Sydney has plenty of options for choosing accommodations. It caters to all types of travellers, from those with plenty of money to spend on luxury pads to budget-conscious nomads just looking for a good night’s rest.
➡ Compare prices for Booking.com Hotels HERE.
Otherwise, in Wollongong, you may not have as many options as you would find in Sydney. Still, luckily the limited choices are convenient and comfortable. Opt for one of the more popular city centre hotels, or enjoy proximity to the beach with one of the many seaside accommodation options.
➡ Compare prices for Booking.com Hotels HERE
Wrap up to a Sydney to Wollongong Road Trip Stops
It’s time for an adventure – lift up those car windows and take in the salty sea air! Thanks for reading this blog post today on my best Sydney to Wollongong road trip stops and I hope you found what you were looking for. However, If you’re still researching, please explore more New South Wales Blogs HERE for inspiration.
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