Why a Coastal Road Trip Makes the Perfect Weekend Getaway

When you have only two days, the biggest challenge is maximizing scenery without spending hours in traffic. I found that a 200‑kilometre loop around a lesser‑known stretch of the coast lets you see three distinct beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a boutique seafood shack—all before the sun sets on Sunday.

South Coast of New South Wales: From Narooma to Tilba Tilba

The drive starts in Narooma, where the harbour is framed by the 1.2‑kilometre-long “The Narooma Bridge” that arches over crystal‑clear water. From there, follow the Princes Highway north for 45 km to the tiny village of Tilba Tilba. The road hugs the shoreline, offering pull‑outs at every turn; I stopped at three spots to snap photos of the red‑sand cliffs that are only visible at low tide.

• Stay: The Tilba Tilba Guesthouse offers a single‑room cottage for $95 per night, including a complimentary breakfast of locally sourced smoked salmon.
• Eat: At “The Seafarer” in Tilba, the grilled barramundi with lemon myrtle costs $28 and arrives on a sea‑salted stone slab.
• Explore: Walk the 2.5‑km coastal track to “Murramarang Beach” – a secluded stretch where tide pools hide tiny octopuses.

The entire loop can be completed in under five hours, leaving plenty of time for a sunset picnic on the beach.

Western Australia’s Coral Coast: Geraldton to Kalbarri

If you’re on the opposite side of the continent, start in Geraldton and head north on the Indian Ocean Drive. The first highlight is the 12‑minute “HMAS Sydney Memorial” at Bluff Point, where a single bronze plaque tells the story of the ship’s 1942 sinking. Continue 80 km to the town of Port Denison; the road narrows here, forcing you to slow to 60 km/h, which surprisingly lets you soak in the wildflower‑covered dunes.

• Stay: The “Kalbarri Shores Resort” offers beachfront cabins for $120 per night, each with a private deck overlooking the sea.
• Eat: Try the “Rock Lobster Roll” at the Kalbarri Marina Café – $22 and served with a side of mango salsa.
• Explore: Hike the 3‑km “Z‑Bend” trail for a panoramic view of the Murchison River’s winding gorge.

Driving the 210‑km stretch takes about three hours, but the real reward is the sudden appearance of hidden coves that are inaccessible by larger tour buses.

Victoria’s Gippsland Coast: From Lakes Entrance to Mallacoota

The Gippsland stretch is a series of small towns linked by the Princes Highway, each with its own character. Begin at Lakes Entrance, where the “Boardwalk” runs 2 km along the Ninety‑Mile Beach, and you can spot dolphins leaping every few minutes. After a short 30‑minute drive, you’ll reach the fishing village of Mallacoota, where the road ends at a tiny harbor that only accommodates boats under 12 m.

• Stay: “The Mallacoota Bungalow” rents a sea‑view studio for $85 per night, including free Wi‑Fi.
• Eat: The “Harbor Café” serves a fresh oyster platter for $30, sourced from the same waters you’ll be sailing later.
• Explore: Rent a kayak and paddle the “Snowy River” estuary for an hour – the water is calm, and you’ll see pelicans nesting on the reeds.

All told, the round‑trip distance is 180 km, and you can comfortably fit a morning surf session at “Sapphire Beach” before heading back.

When the Road Ends, the Fun Continues

After a day of salty air and sunrise hikes, many of us unwind with a bit of indoor entertainment. I’ve discovered that a quick online gaming session can be the perfect way to relax while waiting for the next ferry or simply to cap off a long drive. The platform ozwin offers a range of casual games that fit neatly into a short break without demanding a big time commitment.

Which Coastal Loop Should You Choose?

If you crave historic charm and a short drive, the New South Wales loop is your best bet. For dramatic cliffs and wildflower scenery, the Western Australian stretch delivers. And if you prefer a blend of beach, river, and small‑town vibes, Gippsland’s hidden gems won’t disappoint. All three routes fit within a typical weekend, cost under $250 total for fuel and accommodation, and provide enough variety to keep you coming back for another two‑day adventure.