12 Day Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

Arrive in Sydney and make your way to the centrally located hotel in Darling Harbour, where you’ll check into your stylish room for a two-night stay. Spend the day settling in and enjoying the vibrant surroundings of Darling Harbour. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the nearby Chinese Garden of Friendship, or indulge in local dining and shopping. As the evening sets in, take in the glittering lights of the harbour before unwinding back at the hotel.

Today, enjoy a quintessential Sydney experience with your Sydney Harbour Discovery Luncheon Cruise. Board your vessel from Circular Quay and take in the iconic sights of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and surrounding coves while enjoying a delicious lunch on board. After your cruise, spend the rest of your afternoon exploring Sydney at your own pace—perhaps visiting Barangaroo Reserve, the Royal Botanic Gardens, or taking a ferry to Manly for coastal views.

Collect your hire car in Sydney and begin your self-drive journey south to Jervis Bay, renowned for its white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Upon arrival, check in to Paperbark Camp for a two-night stay in a Deluxe Safari Room. Enjoy the unique experience of glamping under the stars with dinner available at The Gunyah, the onsite treetop dining room.

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of the region. Relax on Hyams Beach, take a walk through Booderee National Park, or join a dolphin or whale watching cruise (seasonal). Unwind in the tranquil bushland setting of Paperbark Camp in the evening.

Continue your coastal drive to Batemans Bay, a charming seaside town known for its seafood and scenic waterways. Check in to Lincoln Downs Resort for a two-night stay in a Superior Queen Room. Spend the afternoon exploring the Clyde River region or relaxing at the resort.

Depart the coast and head inland to Australia's capital, Canberra. Check into the elegant Hotel Kurrajong for 2 nights, Spend your afternoon exploring the city's parks, lakeside promenades, and cultural institutions.

Spend the day exploring Canberra’s many highlights. Visit the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and take in panoramic views from Mount Ainslie Lookout. Stroll around Lake Burley Griffin, visit the National Gallery of Australia, or explore the interactive exhibits at Questacon. The city’s relaxed pace and green spaces offer the perfect contrast to your earlier coastal days. In the evening, reflect on your journey over a final dinner in one of the capital’s top dining precincts. 

Travel southeast toward the Sapphire Coast, arriving in Eden. Explore the town's maritime history or visit Ben Boyd National Park for dramatic coastal views. Seasonal whale watching is also a highlight between May and November.

Continue along the coastal route to Metung Hot Springs located near Lakes Entrance. Check in to a Hillside Glamping Tent for 2 nights. Soad in the thermal springs overlooking the landscape and unwind in this tranquil wellness retreat.

Spend the day enjoying the facilities, join a guided bathing experience, take a wellness walk, or indulge in a spa treatment. For those looking to explore, take a short drive into Lake Entrance for a lakeside lunch or a cruise through the Gippsland Lakes.

Depart the coast and travel inland to Victoria's premier wine region. Visit a local vineyard, enjoy fine dining or take in the views with a glass of sparkling in hand.

Drive to Melbourne and return your hire car to conclude your journey of coastal towns, national parks, gourmet produce, thermal springs and world-class wine country.