9 days

Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

Start Location Sydney
End Location Melbourne
Code
SMCD
Starting From
$1,750 USD
Places Visited

Cowes, Jervis Bay, Lakes Entrance, Melbourne, Merimbula, Sydney

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Tour Overview

The "Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive" is a 9-day tour offering a scenic journey along Australia's southeastern coast. Starting in Sydney, the tour takes you to Jervis Bay for watersports and whale watching, then to Merimbula's charming seaside town. You'll visit Lakes Entrance, known for its fresh seafood and waterways, and explore Phillip Island's wildlife and coastal beauty, including the famous Penguin Parade. In Melbourne, enjoy the city's vibrant culture with a guided laneways tour. The journey concludes with a visit to the Grampians, featuring stunning waterfalls and panoramic views. The package includes car rental, accommodation, and guided tours, providing a comprehensive and adventurous self-drive experience.

Start Location Sydney
End Location Melbourne

Top Highlights

  • Enjoy watersports, white sand beaches, and whale watching in the pristine waters of Jervis Bay.
  • Explore the charming seaside town Merimbula with its coastal lakes, coves, rugged beaches, and numerous water-based activities.
  • Visit Lakes Entrance, known for its fresh seafood, scenic Lake Tyers, and Australia's largest inland network of waterways.
  • Discover Cowes, with coastal walks, safe swimming beaches, seal watching cruises, and the famous Penguin Parade in Phillip Island..
  • Experience Melbourne's vibrant culture, historic architecture, and enjoy a guided laneways and arcades tour.
  • Visit the Grampians, including Silverband Falls, MacKenzie Falls, and Boroka Lookout, with stunning panoramic views.
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Make this trip matter and reduce your carbon print.

As a responsible tour operator, we believe in creating experiences that not only enrich your life but also contribute to the well-being of our planet and its communities. That’s why we will be planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us. 

A person standing in a serene forest surrounded by tall trees

An unforgettable journey awaits you

Embark on a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We offer a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking thrill or relaxation, we create journeys that are truly unforgettable.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Customizable Itinerary

  • Sydney to Jervis Bay

    Surrounding the vast blue waters of the Jervis Bay National Park, Huskisson is a natural magnet for fans of watersports and for those seeking a classic Australian beach holiday. Fishing, diving, snorkelling and sailing are at their best here, while the beaches are known for their spectacular stretches of white sand and their crystal blue waters. Whale watching is a popular activity in the Jervis Bay area, with migrating whales often sighted between May and November. The most commonly sighted whales are humpbacks and southern right whales, making for some incredibly dramatic photograph opportunities and unforgettable memories in this incredibly pristine part of New South Wales.

    Overnight: Jervis Bay


  • Jervis Bay to Merimbula

    Merimbula is a true gem on the enchanting Sapphire Coast, a small charming seaside town rising on the tree-clad hills around the tranquil waters of Lake Merimbula and Back Lagoon, in fact Merimbula itself is a name translating to two lakes. Beyond the coastal lakes, there is an abundance of coves and rugged beaches including the 6km long main beach which makes for stunning views and boasts a myriad of walking trails along the coast. Moreover there are seemingly limitless water-based activities for visitors to enjoy nearby to the town including fishing, swimming, surfing, boating, lake cruises, scuba diving, sailboarding and canoeing.

    Overnight: Merimbula


  • Merimbula to Lakes Entrance

    A popular holiday spot for over 100 years, Lakes Entrance has an easy seaside charm. Located on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where the Gippsland Lakes meets the Southern Ocean, many of the local activities are water based. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its fresh seafood due to the many fishing trawlers operating in the area. Visit nearby scenic Lake Tyers, bordered by ocean and state forest. Boasting Australia's largest inland network of waterways, making it for the unique experience of getting around by boat, this Victorian he town is well equipped with accommodation, services and facilities for those enjoying their coastal escape.

    Overnight: Lakes Entrance


  • Lakes Entrance to Philip Island

    Cowes, laid out across a beautiful stretch of coastline on the north side of Phillip Island, it is the islands major town and commercial hub, a positively bustling spot during the holiday season with a number of seaside eateries and renowned restaurants. The foreshore offers fantastic coastal walks, safe swimming beaches, pretty picnic areas and the jetty is very popular fishing spot. Various seal watching cruises are also available in the area, proving the best way to see the fascinating fur seals up close. Cowes certainly makes for the ideal base whilst visiting Phillip Island, boasting more accommodation than anywhere else and just ten minutes drive from the iconic Penguin Parade.

    Overnight: Cowes


  • Explore Philip Island

    Included today is entrance to 3 parks: Koala Convention Centre, Chuchill Island Heritage Farm and Nobbies Centre included today is entrance to the famous penguin parade

    Overnight: Cowes


  • Philip Island to Melbourne

    Melbourne is Australia's cultural and sporting capital, known as much for its cafes, galleries, laneways and arcades, as for its major sporting events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Australian Open and AFL and cricket matches at the MCG. The city grew during the gold rush in the 19th century and much of this early architecture still stands today within the grid of easy-to-navigate streets of central Melbourne. From the historic buildings to the fantastic shopping precincts to the diverse bar and restaurant scene, a visit to Melbourne is all about experiencing the lifestyle that this vibrant city offers.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Tour

    Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne with this immersive tour, guided by passionate local hosts. Embrace the city's unique blend of history, culture, and creativity, where every turn reveals something new. Whether you're a curious visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to Melbourne's soul. Spend a few leisurely hours with us and discover the magic of Melbourne. Finish with a one course lunch and a glass of local wine in a Melbourne hotspot (unaccompanied).

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Grampians Tour

    We pass through the Western Plains of Victoria on our way to the historic town of Ballarat. Ballarat boomed in the 1850s with the widespread discovery of gold in the district. Learn a little about the history as we enjoy morning tea here at the site of the infamous Eureka Rebellion. Continuing on our drive through the picturesque, volcanic plains, we pass through the town of Moyston, the birthplace of Australian Rules Football. We then arrive at the foot of the Grampians Range or Gariwerd in the local Jardwadjali language. On arrival, we immerse ourselves in the Australian bush with a gentle stroll to see the Silverband Falls. We next make our way into the township of Halls Gap for a lunch break (own expense). Keep an eye open for the local kangaroos and abundant birdlife that can be seen in the main street. After lunch, we head to the Wonderland Turntable trail for a short hike to the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the high rising rock walls, crisscrossed with layering and fault lines, showcasing the area's unique geology. Stunning panoramas await at Reeds Lookout which overlooks the towering Stringybark Forest and Victoria Valley. Next stop is MacKenzie Falls. No trip to the Grampians would be complete without a visit to these majestic waterfalls. Set in a gorge surrounded by eucalyptus forest, the water cascades down over the rocks, creating a tranquil scene enticing all the senses. Walk the Bluff trail along the top of the cliffs to the panoramic viewpoint of the falls or journey down the stairs to the base of the steep gorge and gaze up at this truly impressive waterfall. Our next port of call is the Boroka Lookout. Boroka provides panoramic views of the surrounding region, overlooking the town of Halls Gap and further afield to Lake Bellfield and beyond. We then make our way back into Halls Gap for a final opportunity to spot some of the area's wild kangaroo population before beginning our return to Melbourne. A dinner stop is made on the return journey to Melbourne, then we enjoy a stunning view of the illuminated city as we complete the return journey to Melbourne. With drop off right back to your inner city accommodation.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Package Ends

    Package Ends


Download Full Itinerary
Availability:  
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
Trip start Trip End Accommodation Price Inquire
Sydney
Melbourne
Confort
$1,750 USD
We accept:
Visa Mastercard American Express

All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.

Star Icon

OUR KEY TO EARNING TRUST IS

Transparency

What’s Included

  • 8 Day Car Rental
  • 8 Nights of Accommodation as listed
  • Entrance to the Penguin Parade
  • Entrance to the Koala Conservation
  • Walking Tour of Melbourne
  • Guided Tour of the Grampians

What’s Not Included

  • International & Domestic Flights – Airfare to/from Australia is not included.
  • Fuel Costs – While car rental is provided, petrol expenses are the traveler’s responsibility.
  • Meals & Drinks – Most meals (except specified ones, such as the lunch on Kangaroo Island) are at your own expense.
  • Travel Insurance – Strongly recommended but not included in the package.
  • Optional Activities & Entrance Fees – Any excursions not listed in the itinerary, such as seal-watching cruises or additional wildlife encounters.
  • Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, shopping, and incidental costs at hotels.
  • Parking & Road Tolls – Potential additional costs while driving.
  • Visa Fees – If required for entry into Australia.
  • Additional Accommodation – Any extra nights before or after the tour dates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Booking & Flight Questions

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.

Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Tour Questions

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.

This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.

The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).

Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.

For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
Icon of chat

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

Ask A Question

or

YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881

An unforgettable journey awaits you

Embark on a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We offer a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking thrill or relaxation, we create journeys that are truly unforgettable.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Customizable Itinerary

  • Sydney to Jervis Bay

    Surrounding the vast blue waters of the Jervis Bay National Park, Huskisson is a natural magnet for fans of watersports and for those seeking a classic Australian beach holiday. Fishing, diving, snorkelling and sailing are at their best here, while the beaches are known for their spectacular stretches of white sand and their crystal blue waters. Whale watching is a popular activity in the Jervis Bay area, with migrating whales often sighted between May and November. The most commonly sighted whales are humpbacks and southern right whales, making for some incredibly dramatic photograph opportunities and unforgettable memories in this incredibly pristine part of New South Wales.

    Overnight: Jervis Bay


  • Jervis Bay to Merimbula

    Merimbula is a true gem on the enchanting Sapphire Coast, a small charming seaside town rising on the tree-clad hills around the tranquil waters of Lake Merimbula and Back Lagoon, in fact Merimbula itself is a name translating to two lakes. Beyond the coastal lakes, there is an abundance of coves and rugged beaches including the 6km long main beach which makes for stunning views and boasts a myriad of walking trails along the coast. Moreover there are seemingly limitless water-based activities for visitors to enjoy nearby to the town including fishing, swimming, surfing, boating, lake cruises, scuba diving, sailboarding and canoeing.

    Overnight: Merimbula


  • Merimbula to Lakes Entrance

    A popular holiday spot for over 100 years, Lakes Entrance has an easy seaside charm. Located on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where the Gippsland Lakes meets the Southern Ocean, many of the local activities are water based. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its fresh seafood due to the many fishing trawlers operating in the area. Visit nearby scenic Lake Tyers, bordered by ocean and state forest. Boasting Australia's largest inland network of waterways, making it for the unique experience of getting around by boat, this Victorian he town is well equipped with accommodation, services and facilities for those enjoying their coastal escape.

    Overnight: Lakes Entrance


  • Lakes Entrance to Philip Island

    Cowes, laid out across a beautiful stretch of coastline on the north side of Phillip Island, it is the islands major town and commercial hub, a positively bustling spot during the holiday season with a number of seaside eateries and renowned restaurants. The foreshore offers fantastic coastal walks, safe swimming beaches, pretty picnic areas and the jetty is very popular fishing spot. Various seal watching cruises are also available in the area, proving the best way to see the fascinating fur seals up close. Cowes certainly makes for the ideal base whilst visiting Phillip Island, boasting more accommodation than anywhere else and just ten minutes drive from the iconic Penguin Parade.

    Overnight: Cowes


  • Explore Philip Island

    Included today is entrance to 3 parks: Koala Convention Centre, Chuchill Island Heritage Farm and Nobbies Centre included today is entrance to the famous penguin parade

    Overnight: Cowes


  • Philip Island to Melbourne

    Melbourne is Australia's cultural and sporting capital, known as much for its cafes, galleries, laneways and arcades, as for its major sporting events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Australian Open and AFL and cricket matches at the MCG. The city grew during the gold rush in the 19th century and much of this early architecture still stands today within the grid of easy-to-navigate streets of central Melbourne. From the historic buildings to the fantastic shopping precincts to the diverse bar and restaurant scene, a visit to Melbourne is all about experiencing the lifestyle that this vibrant city offers.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Tour

    Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne with this immersive tour, guided by passionate local hosts. Embrace the city's unique blend of history, culture, and creativity, where every turn reveals something new. Whether you're a curious visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to Melbourne's soul. Spend a few leisurely hours with us and discover the magic of Melbourne. Finish with a one course lunch and a glass of local wine in a Melbourne hotspot (unaccompanied).

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Grampians Tour

    We pass through the Western Plains of Victoria on our way to the historic town of Ballarat. Ballarat boomed in the 1850s with the widespread discovery of gold in the district. Learn a little about the history as we enjoy morning tea here at the site of the infamous Eureka Rebellion. Continuing on our drive through the picturesque, volcanic plains, we pass through the town of Moyston, the birthplace of Australian Rules Football. We then arrive at the foot of the Grampians Range or Gariwerd in the local Jardwadjali language. On arrival, we immerse ourselves in the Australian bush with a gentle stroll to see the Silverband Falls. We next make our way into the township of Halls Gap for a lunch break (own expense). Keep an eye open for the local kangaroos and abundant birdlife that can be seen in the main street. After lunch, we head to the Wonderland Turntable trail for a short hike to the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the high rising rock walls, crisscrossed with layering and fault lines, showcasing the area's unique geology. Stunning panoramas await at Reeds Lookout which overlooks the towering Stringybark Forest and Victoria Valley. Next stop is MacKenzie Falls. No trip to the Grampians would be complete without a visit to these majestic waterfalls. Set in a gorge surrounded by eucalyptus forest, the water cascades down over the rocks, creating a tranquil scene enticing all the senses. Walk the Bluff trail along the top of the cliffs to the panoramic viewpoint of the falls or journey down the stairs to the base of the steep gorge and gaze up at this truly impressive waterfall. Our next port of call is the Boroka Lookout. Boroka provides panoramic views of the surrounding region, overlooking the town of Halls Gap and further afield to Lake Bellfield and beyond. We then make our way back into Halls Gap for a final opportunity to spot some of the area's wild kangaroo population before beginning our return to Melbourne. A dinner stop is made on the return journey to Melbourne, then we enjoy a stunning view of the illuminated city as we complete the return journey to Melbourne. With drop off right back to your inner city accommodation.

    Overnight: Melbourne


  • Package Ends

    Package Ends


Download Full Itinerary

Availability:  
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
Trip start Trip End Accommodation Price Inquire
Sydney
Melbourne
Confort
$1,750 USD
We accept:
Visa Mastercard American Express

All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.

Star Icon

OUR KEY TO EARNING TRUST IS

Transparency

What’s Included

  • 8 Day Car Rental
  • 8 Nights of Accommodation as listed
  • Entrance to the Penguin Parade
  • Entrance to the Koala Conservation
  • Walking Tour of Melbourne
  • Guided Tour of the Grampians

What’s Not Included

  • International & Domestic Flights – Airfare to/from Australia is not included.
  • Fuel Costs – While car rental is provided, petrol expenses are the traveler’s responsibility.
  • Meals & Drinks – Most meals (except specified ones, such as the lunch on Kangaroo Island) are at your own expense.
  • Travel Insurance – Strongly recommended but not included in the package.
  • Optional Activities & Entrance Fees – Any excursions not listed in the itinerary, such as seal-watching cruises or additional wildlife encounters.
  • Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, shopping, and incidental costs at hotels.
  • Parking & Road Tolls – Potential additional costs while driving.
  • Visa Fees – If required for entry into Australia.
  • Additional Accommodation – Any extra nights before or after the tour dates.
Download Itinerary

Get Full Itinerary with all includes and exclusions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Booking & Flight Questions

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.

Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Tour Questions

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.

This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.

The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).

Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.

For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
Icon of chat

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

Ask A Question

or

YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881

Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips

Get in touch with one of our local travel experts.

Contact us to discover:

  • The ideal seasons to explore your next destination landscapes, perfectly aligned with your travel plans.
  • Tips on the most convenient routes and layovers for a hassle-free trip to your next destination.
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YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-347-6881
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