Grand Pacific Drive

Experience Wollongong's spectacular new coastal drive - Grand Pacific Drive, leading between Sydney, Wollongong and beyond. The journey begins at the Royal National Park, the second oldest National Park in the world. Meander through coastal rainforests, hire a row boat or take a picnic on the Port Hacking River, visit picturesque beaches or enjoy some of the many great walking trails.

The Royal National Park ends at the point where Grand Pacific Drive meets Bald Hill- a magnificent lookout south to Wollongong. From here, watch the hang gliders and para gliders or marvel at the spot where Lawrence Hargrave first took flight.

Grand Pacific Drive then heads south through the Northern Wollongong Coastal Villages and along cliff hugging roads right above the South Pacific Ocean. Traverse along the magnificent Sea Cliff Bridge- the 665 metre over-the-ocean bridge newly opened in December 2005.

The Northern Wollongong Coastal Villages are famous for their unspoilt beaches and rock pools, unique art and crafts, great fishing and surfing spots and many terrific cafes and restaurants.

Continuing on, the Grand Pacific Drive makes its way into the bustling city of Wollongong, offering countless adventure activities, great beaches, shopping, fantastic restaurants, cafes, golf courses and art galleries. Wollongong is also a great place to stay with a huge mix of options from international hotel brands, quaint and unique B&B's to backpacker accommodation.

Leaving Wollongong, the drive takes you through to the beautiful coastal towns of Shellharbour and Kiama and ends in the spectacular Shoalhaven region. From here, experience Grand Pacific Drive's 'beyond', to the Southern Highlands and then on to Canberra. Grand Pacific Drive is also a great 'appetiser' for the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive.