The road trip from Sydney to the Shoalhaven and South Coast is part of the experience. Whether you’re heading down for a weekend escape or a longer stay in our villas, breaking up the drive with a few well-chosen stops makes the journey far more enjoyable. This guide covers the best places to stop between Sydney and Ulladulla for coffee, lunch, leg stretches, dog-friendly breaks, and a few treats worth detouring for.

Leg Stretch + Scenic Views

Southern Gateway (Bulli)

Approx. 1 hour from Sydney CBD.

This lookout offers 180-degree views of the Wollongong coastline. Drop by theVisitor Info Centrefor a coffee and stretch your legs before continuing along the South Coast.

From here you could join the Grand Pacific Drive 

It’s a 140km scenic coastal drive taking you over theSea Cliff Bridgeand through the coastal townships of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and then into the Shoalhaven. The vistas are worth the detour. The views over the Sea Cliff Bridge are even better if you do this section on your return trip north.

Kiama Little Blowhole

Approx. 50 mins from Bulli

Often overlooked in favour of the main blowhole,Kiama’s Little Blowholeis a quieter, more relaxed stop preferred by locals. Slightly off the main tourist path, it offers fewer crowds, easier parking, and more space to enjoy the coastal scenery. On the right swell, the blowhole is just as impressive, without the busyness of the main precinct. It’s also a great place to stretch your legs, take a breather from the car, and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views before continuing south.

Billy’s Lookout - Kiama Bends

Approx. 40mins from Bulli

Unfortunately no toilet facilities,Billy’s Lookoutis best for having that leg stretch you may need with a beautiful view looking down onto the town of Gerringong.

Sweet Stops

Berry Donut Van (Berry)

Approx. 1 hour from Bulli

An iconic South Coast business, theBerry Donut Vanserves hot, freshly made cinnamon donuts straight from the van. They’re simple, nostalgic, and absolutely worth queuing for. Avoid long weekends if possible as it can get very busy.

Espresso Boy Donuts (Nowra)

Approx. 75 mins from Bulli

Located just off the highway after crossing the bridge, this is the ideal mid-drive pick-me-up.Espresso Boy Donutsoffers fresh, generously filled donuts paired with good coffee making it a perfect stop before the final section through to Ulladulla.

Lunch Stops Worth Planning Around

The Hungry Monkey (Kiama)

Approx. 50 mins from Bulli

A classic South Coast stop,The Hungry Monkeyis known for generous burgers and relaxed vibes. Perfect for a stop that is long enough but not too long.

Fatty Dumpling (Nowra)

Approx. 75 mins from Bulli

Elvina serves up dumplings without fuss from her food truck squeezed between McDonalds and a service station. Recently reviewed by the SMH,Fatty Dumplingwas praised as “rich, warming and gloriously textural stuff: silky dumplings glossed in chilli oil; slow-braised spiced pork served tongguan roujiamo-style in a crisp golden bun; and beef soup noodles, tightly coiled in a pool of garlic-heavy red Sichuan heat.” This stop is not to be missed!

Dog-Friendly Stops

Black Head Reserve (Gerroa)

An excellent off-leash option (check local signage),Black Head Reserveis great for dogs to burn off energy during the drive while you enjoy beautiful views.

Camp Quality Park at Boongaree (Berry)

A convenient, grassy stop for a quick dog run before the final stretch to Ulladulla.Camp Quality Parkoffers a toilet stop for you as well.

Final Stop: Arriving in Ulladulla

From Nowra, it’s a relaxed and easy drive through the forest-lined highway to Milton and then Ulladulla. We suggest heading to Mollymook or Narrawallee Beach on your arrival day to breathe in the beautiful ocean air and feel like you’ve arrived at your destination, ready to slow down. After your road-trip stops, arrive at Cupitt’s Estate ready to unwind, enjoy a cellar door tasting, dinner or to settle into your villa for a relaxing stay.