Grand Pacific Drive

Grand Pacific Drive — Sea Cliff Bridge & South Coast Highlights

A spectacular coastal route from the Royal National Park to Wollongong, Kiama, and beyond. Cruise rainforest-lined bends, cross the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, and explore beaches, blowholes, lookouts, and foreshore paths.

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At a glance

Distance: ~140–200 km depending on detours (Royal National Park → Kiama/Gerringong)
Time: 1 long day or 2 days with walks and beach time
Best months: Sep–May for warm weather; winter for whale watching and lighter traffic
Road type: Sealed coastal road with short, winding sections
Ideal for: Scenic lookouts, coastal walks, family beach stops, photography

Map overview

Route highlights north → south: Royal National Park (Bald Hill Lookout) → Stanwell Park → Sea Cliff Bridge → Austinmer/Thirroul → Wollongong (lighthouse, foreshore) → Shellharbour → Kiama (Blowhole, coastal walk) → Gerringong/Gerroa.

Suggested itinerary

Day trip highlights (north → south)

Bald Hill Lookout: Panoramic views over the escarpment and beaches.
Sea Cliff Bridge: Park at north or south end for a stroll; best photo ops in morning light.
Austinmer/Thirroul: Ocean pools and foreshore parks; Near Me for facilities.
Wollongong: Breakwater lighthouse and Blue Mile path; cafes and Playgrounds nearby.
Kiama: Blowhole & Lighthouse precinct, Kiama Coast Walk segments (level sections available).
Gerringong/Gerroa: Headland views and family-friendly beaches.

Two‑day relaxed

Day 1: Royal National Park → Sea Cliff Bridge → Wollongong (overnight)
Day 2: Wollongong → Kiama → Gerringong/Gerroa (walks + beach time)

Facilities and stops

Use Near Me on arrival at each foreshore precinct.
Accessible Toilets common at beaches and parks; Adult Change at larger hubs.
Public Showers near surf clubs and ocean pools.
Fuel and supermarkets in Helensburgh, Wollongong, Shellharbour, and Kiama.

Short walks and lookouts

Sea Cliff Bridge Walk: Flat, sealed bridge path with ocean views.
Bald Hill Lookout: Short access to viewing platforms.
Kiama Coast Walk: Choose shorter level segments near the lighthouse and Blowhole.
Wollongong Blue Mile: Foreshore promenade with frequent amenities.

Accessibility

Many foreshore paths are sealed and pram‑friendly with frequent seating.
Accessible viewing points at Sea Cliff Bridge ends and Kiama Lighthouse precinct.
Check seasonal beach matting via local council links in the Locations hub.

Driving tips and safety

Start early on weekends/holidays; parking fills quickly at Sea Cliff Bridge and Kiama.
Watch for cyclists and pedestrian crossings in foreshore towns.
Wind and spray can be strong on exposed sections — secure hats and cameras.
Rest every 2 hours; see Road Safety & Rest Breaks.

Where to stay

Wollongong: Central base for lighthouse, beaches, and dining.
Kiama: Great for coastal walks and Blowhole precinct.
Camping & Outdoors for holiday parks along the coast.

When to go

Summer: Beach weather and crowds; arrive early for parking.
Autumn: Mild days, warm water — ideal.
Winter: Whale watching; pack layers for wind on the bridge.
Spring: Blooming headlands; lengthening days.

FAQs

Can I walk on the Sea Cliff Bridge?

Yes. There’s a pedestrian path along the bridge. Park at either end and enjoy ocean views.

Is the drive suitable for families?

Yes. There are frequent parks, ocean pools, and level foreshore paths. Use Near Me for facilities.

How long is the Grand Pacific Drive?

Allow a full day with stops, or split across two days to include walks and beach time.

Are there accessible viewpoints?

Yes. Sea Cliff Bridge ends, Bald Hill lookout, and Kiama Lighthouse have sealed access. Check Accessible Toilets.

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