Ahhhh, summer holidays! It’s the perfect time to hit the road and experience the freedom and fun of travel with family or friends. So sort out your playlist, service the car, pack the road trip essentials, and get ready to experience the stunning coastlines of Victoria and southern NSW on this 5-day Melbourne to Merimbula itinerary.
The ultimate Melbourne to Merimbula road trip in 5 days
Day 1 – Melbourne to Phillip Island
Driving distance: 142 km
Travel time: 1.5 – 2hrs
Google Maps: Route
It’s a gentle start to our Melbourne to Merimbula road trip on Day 1, with a short drive to the spectacular natural beauty of Phillip Island. There’s 101 square metres of island to explore, from idyllic beaches, rugged coastlines and natural bushland, to adventure activities or more sedate (and delicious) food and wine options.
Take a cruise 2km out from shore to see Australia’s largest seal colony at Seal Rocks, and don’t miss the famous Little Penguins dashing home across the sand at dusk at the Penguin Parade! There’s accommodation options on the island to suit every budget, and great cafes to get you caffeinated for the next leg of the journey.
Day 2 – Phillip Island to Wilsons Promontory
Driving distance: 131 km
Travel time: 1.75hrs
Google Maps: Route
Today we’ll be winding through South Gippsland and the Bass Coast, but there’s no rush, so let’s stretch our legs and come face-to-face with koalas in their natural habitat with a gentle walk through treetop boardwalks at the Koala Reserve and grab some lunch in San Remo before we hit the road.
This drive takes in sweeping ocean views and spectacular rocky outcrops. Take your time and visit the beautiful towns of Kilcunda, Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cape Paterson and Fish Creek as you wind your way to your destination: the ‘Prom’. Wilsons Promontory is one of Australia’s best kept natural secrets! Stay in luxury accommodation nearby, or pre-book a camping site (or safari tent!) in the national park itself.
Day 3 – Wilsons Promontory to Metung
Driving distance: 264 km
Travel time: 3.25hrs
Google Maps: Route
Wake early with birdsong to explore the natural beauty of the Prom. Take your pick of one of many walking tracks that wind through eucalypt forests to secluded coves, white sand beaches and granite outcrops across the 50,000 hectares of wildlife reserve. Head to the summit of Mt Oberon to take in the vast views of the park and coastline, and don’t miss ‘Squeaky Beach’, famous for its white sand, turquoise waters and squeaky quartz beach.
Now it’s time to (literally) head for the hills, enjoying the rolling green hills as you head north-east through Foster and along the South Gippsland Highway. Stop for a stretch in the pretty town of Yarram and enjoy farming outlooks as you make your way to Metung, gateway to the Gippsland Lakes.
Day 4 – Metung to Mallacoota
Driving distance: 221 km
Travel time: 2.75hrs
Google Maps: Route
Metung is an ideal spot for a bit of rest and relaxation. Make the most of the fresh seafood and local wines on the waterfront before heading to the Metung Hot Springs. Enjoy the geothermal hot spring pools, day spa and cold plunge pool from the exclusive Hilltop escarpment, where you take in views across the Gippsland Lakes. Luxury glamping accommodation is on offer, too!
When you’re ready to roll, ease into things with a gentle 20 km drive to Lakes Entrance, where a stroll along Ninety Mile Beach is a must. This 90-mile long stretch of perfect golden sand separates the Gippsland Lakes from the Bass Strait, offering an unspoilt view of this beautiful region. Next, it’s an hour further on to Cape Conran Coastal Park for some rock-rambling in the rockpools near the East Cape day visitor area, before we arrive at our final destination for the day in time for its renowned sunset: Mallacoota.
Day 5 – Mallacoota to Merimbula
Driving distance: 111 km
Travel time: 1.5hrs
Google Maps: Route
Set on the beautiful Mallacoota inlet and surrounded by the rugged wilderness of the Croajingolong National Park, Mallacoota is one of the most stunning getaway destinations in Victoria. And it’s the penultimate stop on your road trip to Merimbula from Melbourne. Pack a picnic of local produce and take the day to explore a walking track (or two!) in UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Croajingolong National Park. From rugged forest to 100km of undeveloped coastline, you’re sure to see something very special; perhaps even whales, dolphins and seals!
If you’re into fishing, there’s no better place to head out on a personalised tour of the incredible estuary systems of East Gippsland; and there’s trips to Gabo Island that are worth your while, too! Mallacoota is a terrific spot to stretch your itinerary out for a few days of adventure.
It’s only a short drive north to cross the border into NSW as you explore the sparkling Sapphire Coast. Stop at Eden for a guided dive or snorkel to explore the hidden treasures of the coast, and taste award-winning fresh oysters in the beautiful historic town of Pambula before arriving at Merimbula. Boasting the perfect balance of heathland, forest and coastal beaches, Merimbula is a stunning spot to stay and explore the Sapphire Coast; from whale-watching, to walking and unwinding. Enjoy the perfect getaway!
Ready, set, relax!
Make sure you get your vehicle road-ready before you start your journey. In the week leading up to your road trip, run through a handful of pre-checks on your vehicle to avoid any last-minute road trip stress, and if you’re due for a car service, book in! Check your tyre pressure, lights, windscreen wipers, coolant and engine oil. If your simple checks turn up anything unexpected, give us a call and we’ll help you on your way.
Summer is such a great time to explore by road. This Melbourne to Merimbula road trip is a real beauty, so don’t be afraid to stretch it out by exploring each stop for an extra day or two! Want more travel inspiration? Check out our list of the best driving roads in Victoria or take one of our favourite weekend road trips from Melbourne (like this ultimate Yarra Valley self-drive itinerary).
Share your dream road trip with us on our Facebook page and tell us all about your adventures next time you’re in for a service.
We look forward to seeing you at Cox Auto soon and wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.
