A Scenic South Coast Drive: Stanwell Park to Wollongong
Few drives capture the drama and beauty of the NSW South Coast like the short journey from Stanwell Park to Wollongong. Whether you’re cruising in a Jayco motorhome or just taking a day trip, this stretch of the Grand Pacific Drive delivers ocean views, charming seaside towns and plenty of reasons to linger. I grew up on the South Coast and now live in Thirroul, so I know this coastline well and can share all the little local spots that make it truly special!
North Wollongong Harbour, NSW, Australia
Key towns & highlights along the way:
Bald Hill Lookout (Stanwell Tops) – breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and hang-gliding launch site
Stanwell Park – beachside village, great for surfers!
Coalcliff – home to the picturesque ocean pools
Scarborough – stop for lunch with a view at the Scarborough Hotel
Darkes Forest – detour inland to Glenbernie Orchard for apple picking & award-winning Darkes Cider
Coledale – beachside caravan park, perfect for an overnight stay
Thirroul – charming seaside town known for its boutiques and restaurants
Bulli – another beachfront caravan park with stunning sunrise views
Wollongong – vibrant coastal city with the famous Diggies Café and the Blue Mile foreshore path
Whether you’re in a Jayco motorhome or just out for a day trip, this stretch of the Grand Pacific Drive delivers the best of the South Coast in one easy, unforgettable journey.
Stanwell Park & Bald Hill Lookout
Begin at Bald Hill Lookout at Stanwell Tops, one of the most famous lookouts in New South Wales. From here you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, ice-cream vans a-plenty, and the colourful sight of hang-gliders launching into the sky. We will say, this lookout gets busy—especially on weekends—so aim for an early morning visit or plan a mid-week stop if you’d like a little more space to take in the view.
Just below lies Stanwell Park, known for its wide sandy beach framed by the steep escarpment. I (Hannah) grew up here and the waves are HUGE - surfers love it, but it’s a patrolled beach so you can jump right in. I spent my childhood with some of my favourite memories of Friday nights when families would meet up for BBQs at the park and dinners at the local Stanwell Park Beach Kiosk. If you're after a quicker stop, grab a coffee at the Stanwell Palms Café or Husk.
For the active types, take the short climb up Mount Mitchell, a nearby bush track that rewards you with even more panoramic views of the coastline and the escarpment.
Coalcliff Ocean Pools
A few minutes south, stop at the Coalcliff Ocean Pools. These natural rock pools sit right on the edge of the Pacific and are perfect for a refreshing dip in summer or cold bath plunge in winter if that’s your thing!
Sea Cliff Bridge & Scarborough Hotel
Continue to the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, a 665-metre bridge that seemingly curves above the ocean. Park up and walk the pedestrian path for uninterrupted sea views - especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset and (don’t forget to keep an eye out for whales in migration season from May - October!)
Afterwards, stop at the Scarborough Hotel, a South Coast landmark that’s been welcoming guests since 1887. Its clifftop beer garden is famous for uninterrupted ocean views and a relaxed spot to enjoy a casual pub lunch.
Glenbernie Orchard for Cider
Take a short inland detour to Glenbernie Orchard in Darkes Forest to sample their award-winning Darkes Cider. It’s a scenic spot to pick up locally made apple cider or fresh produce before heading back to the coast.
Coledale & Bulli Caravan Parks
If you’re travelling by camper or motorhome, you’ll find two of the region’s most picturesque beachside stays at the Coledale and Bulli Beach caravan parks. Both sit right on the sand, offering unbeatable sunrise views and easy access to the beach - perfect for an overnight stop.
Thirroul: A Seaside Gem
As a Thirroul local, we couldn’t leave this town off the list. It’s a charming seaside town with a relaxed vibe. Firstly, Sareven Bakery is a must for their epic homemade pies, and for coffee & brunch lovers you can’t beat Black Market Roasters - they roast on site and serve what many locals claim is the best coffee on the South Coast.
Thirroul Beach is a patrolled beach and perfect for a quick dip, and if you’re feeling energetic, jump on the scenic cycle route that hugs the coastline all the way into Wollongong - it’s a stunning ride with ocean views the whole way.
If you have a little extra time, check out Anita’s Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s venue that hosts live music and performances throughout the year.
For an overnight stay you’ve got options: book a coastal Airbnb for a cosy beach-house feel, or, if you’re travelling in your van, roll into Bulli caravan parks just a few minutes south and again right on the beach and surrounded by parks and cafes.
Arriving in Wollongong
Wrap up the trip in Wollongong, a laid-back coastal city with both sweeping beaches and an active working harbour.”
Start your visit at North Beach with coffee or brunch at Diggies Café, then follow the harbour foreshore walk past the two historic lighthouses. For lunch or dinner, the Harbourfront Restaurant is known for its superbly fresh local seafood and uninterrupted harbour views. It’s a little on the pricey side, but their seafood platters are outstanding and well worth the splurge.
Wollongong is easy to explore on foot or bike. The Blue Mile path runs along the waterfront, and there’s a network of cycleways that link the beaches. The city centre, just a short walk from the foreshore, offers small galleries, street art, and a mix of casual and contemporary dining.
Travel Tips
Distance: About 30 km (roughly 30–40 minutes driving, not including stops).
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds at the Sea Cliff Bridge and Bald Hill.
Parking: Plenty of beachside parking in Stanwell Park, Thirroul and Wollongong; ample space for motorhomes at the caravan parks.
Perfect for RVs: The route is fully sealed and ideal for larger vehicles like our Jayco Destiny.
From Bald Hill to the harbour lights of Wollongong, this short drive packs in more than its share of scenery and good eats. It’s the kind of trip that reminds me why I love calling the South Coast home.
