South Coast & Country Tour from Sydney with Local Guide

Summary

Private day trip from Sydney with coastal walks, blowholes & waterfalls

You’ll ride along Sydney’s Grand Pacific Drive with a local guide, walk across Sea Cliff Bridge high above the ocean, watch sea spray blast from Kiama Blowhole, and hear rainforest birds near Fitzroy Falls. With hotel pickup and all national park fees included, you’ll get real glimpses of Australia’s wild coast — moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen a wave explode straight up into the sky?” That’s what our guide, Mark, asked as we leaned over the rail at Kiama Blowhole. I’d just wiped salty spray off my glasses — didn’t expect to get that close, honestly. The drive down from Sydney had already felt like a slow exhale: eucalyptus smell drifting in through the van windows, bits of ocean flashing between trees. We’d stopped at Stanwell Tops earlier and I swear the coastline just kept going forever. Mark pointed out a wedge-tailed eagle circling above us — he said they’re locals too.

The Grand Pacific Drive itself is kind of hypnotic. There’s this part where you walk out over the Sea Cliff Bridge, and it feels like you’re floating above the water. I could hear waves slapping underneath and someone’s dog barking back on shore. At Thirroul, we grabbed coffee (I tried to order “flat white” with my accent — got a grin from the barista) and wandered past murals and little bookshops. Apparently D.H. Lawrence wrote here for a bit; can’t say I blame him.

After lunch up near Cambewarra Mountain — big windows, farmland rolling out below — we wound down into Kangaroo Valley. It was quieter there; cows chewing in the shade, magpies doing their weird warbling song. The walk to Fitzroy Falls was muddy but worth it for that cold mist on your face at the top. Mark told us to listen for lyrebirds mimicking camera shutters (I thought he was joking until I heard it myself). Still think about that sound sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Grand Pacific Drive & Coastal Views

• Drive past Royal National Park, stop at Stanwell Tops
• Walk Sea Cliff Bridge, watch for manta rays
• Morning tea stop at Thirroul
• Visit Kiama Blowhole and lighthouse
• Explore Kiama township and boutique stores
• Lunch option with panoramic views at lookout
• Drive from Cambewarra Mountain to Kangaroo Valley
• Walk rainforest track to Fitzroy Falls

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this South Coast tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your private tour.

How long does the drive from Sydney to Kiama take?

The drive from Sydney to Kiama typically takes about two hours each way.

Are entry fees or national park fees covered?

Yes, all required National Park fees are included in your booking.

Is this South Coast tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Can infants join? Are car seats available?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request for this tour.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

No, lunch is not included; you can purchase food at local cafes along the route.

Is this private tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this private South Coast tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear for weather or walking conditions?

The tour operates in all weather; dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sydney, bottled water throughout the journey, all National Park entry fees covered by your guide, plus private transport in an air-conditioned minivan so you can just relax between stops like Sea Cliff Bridge and Fitzroy Falls before heading back home at sunset.