The coastal route is not the quick way between Sydney and Melbourne. That is precisely why it works. Seven days gives the South Coast, far south and Gippsland distinct chapters rather than reducing them to fuel stops.
The seven-day route
Sydney to Kiama
Leave the motorway for the Grand Pacific Drive when conditions suit, cross Sea Cliff Bridge and settle into Kiama or Gerringong. Keep the first day light enough for a coastal walk.
Kiama to Jervis Bay
Use the morning for the Kiama area, then continue south. Choose one Jervis Bay beach or walk and check park access before committing to an afternoon plan.
Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay or Moruya
This is a flexible stage. Ulladulla, Murramarang and the Eurobodalla coast all compete for time; pick one meaningful stop rather than arriving after dark.
Moruya to Narooma or Bermagui
A shorter day leaves space for headlands, coastal villages and Montague Island views. Staying in one small centre makes the evening walkable.
Far South Coast to Eden
Follow the coast through the Bega Valley. Eden is a useful final NSW base and a natural place to understand the region's maritime and whaling history.
Eden to Lakes Entrance
Cross into Victoria and allow for longer forested sections. Refuel before you need to, take a proper rest break and avoid making wildlife-active hours your arrival plan.
Gippsland to Melbourne
Choose between a direct finish or a final Gippsland stop. Melbourne traffic can add a tiring final chapter, so return the vehicle or check in before the evening peak where possible.
Where to add a day
Add it to Jervis Bay, the Eurobodalla coast or Gippsland—not to another one-night base. A two-night stay creates a weather buffer and a day without repacking the car.
Before departure
Use Live Traffic NSW for incidents and changed conditions, and check the relevant park on NSW National Parks alerts. Destination NSW presents the broader route as a four-day, roughly 1,100 km drive; this guide deliberately adds time for a less compressed trip.