NSW South Coast

The South Coast stretches from Wollongong to the Victorian border across hundreds of kilometres of coastline. From towering blowholes and cliff-top walks to sophisticated country cafes, family-friendly beaches, and pristine national parks, the South Coast offers destinations that feel worlds apart. Towns are typically 30-60+ minutes between each other, meaning longer trips unlock access to different coastal experiences – working fishing villages, foodie hubs, wilderness beaches, and heritage towns.

The South Coast is perfect for road trip adventurers, those seeking coastal scenery and variety across distance, and travellers with 3+ nights to properly explore the region’s beaches and villages at a slower pace.

Below you’ll find our recommended destinations on the South Coast. Each destination guide includes activities, accommodation and dining options as well as recommended day-by-day plans for making the most of your holiday. At the end, you’ll find road trip guides, including full day-by-day itineraries for exploring the South Coast.

Weekend Escape Guide

This South Coast weekend guide focuses on the region’s most accessible destinations – KiamaBerry, and Gerringong – all within 2 hours of Sydney and perfect for 2-3 night getaways. This is the accessible South Coast – close enough for spontaneous weekends.

Kiama Ocean Pool

Destinations

Road Trips

These road trips travel through the South Coast region. Each road trip guide includes a full itinerary with recommended accommodation, dining and activities for each day, as well as ideas for tailoring the itinerary.

  • South Coast Road Trip (6 days)

    Total drive: 732 km

    Destinations: Kiama, Mollymook, Narooma, Huskisson

    A longer South Coast return trip from Sydney through Kiama, Mollymook, Narooma and Huskisson, with coastal walks, seafood, wildlife tours, beaches and manageable daily drives.

  • South Coast Road Trip (4 days)

    Total drive: 300 km

    Destinations: Kiama, Gerringong, Berry

    For an easy long weekend away from Sydney, this shorter South Coast loop keeps driving light between Kiama, Gerringong and Berry.

Next Escape is your guide to real places and real experiences, with practical, independent travel advice based on first-hand visits: the places we’ve explored, the restaurants we’ve eaten at and the walks we’ve done. More about us.

Missed a spot? If there’s a destination, hotel, restaurant or sight we’ve missed (or you think we should revisit), just let us know.

Get inspired for your next escape

NSW regions to explore