10-day coastal drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast

 A 10-day coastal drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast is a fantastic way to explore some of Australia’s most scenic landscapes, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking national parks. Here’s a suggested itinerary with sightseeing highlights along the way.

Day 1: Melbourne to Lakes Entrance (320 km, 4h)

• Depart Melbourne and take the scenic Princes Highway (A1) east.
• Stop at Wilson’s Promontory National Park for short hikes and stunning coastal views.
• Continue to Lakes Entrance, a beautiful seaside town where the Gippsland Lakes meet the ocean.
• Stroll along the Ninety Mile Beach and enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Overnight: Lakes Entrance

Day 2: Lakes Entrance to Merimbula (270 km, 3.5h)

• Drive through the Snowy River National Park, known for its rugged beauty.
• Stop at the charming town of Orbost for coffee and a look at its historic timber heritage.
• Cross into New South Wales and visit Ben Boyd National Park for stunning coastal views and the historic Boyd’s Tower.
• Arrive in Merimbula, a lovely coastal town with great beaches and wildlife.

Overnight: Merimbula

Day 3: Merimbula to Narooma (120 km, 1.5h)

• Explore Merimbula Lake in the morning – great for kayaking or a peaceful walk.
• Stop at Tathra Wharf, a historic fishing spot with amazing ocean views.
• Visit Bermagui’s Blue Pool, a stunning ocean rock pool.
• Arrive in Narooma and see the famous Australia Rock and nearby Montague Island, home to seals and penguins.

Overnight: Narooma

Day 4: Narooma to Jervis Bay (210 km, 3h)

• Enjoy a relaxed morning in Narooma before heading north.
• Stop at Tilba Tilba, a charming heritage village with quaint shops and cheese tasting.
• Continue to Jervis Bay, home to Hyams Beach, known for some of the world’s whitest sand.
• Explore Booderee National Park, featuring scenic walking trails, botanic gardens, and stunning beaches.

Overnight: Jervis Bay

Day 5: Jervis Bay to Sydney (200 km, 2.5h)

• Take the scenic Grand Pacific Drive through Kiama (visit the famous blowhole) and Wollongong.
• Drive over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, a breathtaking coastal road.
• Arrive in Sydney, where you can spend the afternoon exploring Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, and Darling Harbour.

Overnight: Sydney

Day 6: Sydney to Newcastle (170 km, 2.5h)

• Visit Palm Beach, the northernmost beach in Sydney, famous for its scenic lookout.
• Stop at Bouddi National Park, which has stunning coastal walks.
• Explore Newcastle, a vibrant city with fantastic beaches, ocean baths, and great dining.

Overnight: Newcastle

Day 7: Newcastle to Port Macquarie (240 km, 3h)

• Take a detour to Hunter Valley for wine tasting if time allows.
• Visit Forster for a scenic break by the beach or dolphin spotting.
• Arrive in Port Macquarie, known for its Koala Hospital and stunning coastal walks.

Overnight: Port Macquarie

Day 8: Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour (160 km, 2h)

• Visit South West Rocks, a hidden gem with beautiful beaches and Trial Bay Gaol.
• Stop at Nambucca Heads, a picturesque town with stunning river and ocean views.
• Arrive in Coffs Harbour, home to the famous Big Banana and beautiful beaches.

Overnight: Coffs Harbour

Day 9: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay (240 km, 3h)

• Drive through Yuraygir National Park, known for its remote and pristine beaches.
• Stop at Yamba, a relaxed coastal town famous for Angourie Blue Pool and great seafood.
• Arrive in Byron Bay, where you can visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of mainland Australia.

Overnight: Byron Bay

Day 10: Byron Bay to Gold Coast (90 km, 1.5h)

• Enjoy a final morning in Byron Bay with a beach walk or some boutique shopping.
• Visit Tropical Fruit World near Tweed Heads for a unique food experience.
• Arrive at the Gold Coast, where you can explore Surfers Paradise, relax on the beach, or visit theme parks like Movie World or Sea World.

Trip Ends in the Gold Coast

Trip Summary

This 10-day journey offers a mix of stunning coastal scenery, wildlife encounters, national parks, charming towns, and vibrant cities. You’ll experience Australia’s most beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, lush forests, and lively coastal culture along the way.

Safe travels