From here the 140km trip offers surf beaches, rainforest, seaside towns and activities from hang-gliding and paragliding to surfing, coastal walks and bushwalking.

Governor Game Lookout, in the Royal National Park, is a great place to stop and picnic. Between May and November you can also spot migrating humpback whales. The family will love nearby Symbio Wildlife Park, where you can see a rare Sumatran tiger and meet koalas and kangaroos.

On the way you pass Stanwell Top’s Bald Hill, an acclaimed hang-gliding destination with panoramas of the South Coast and Pacific Ocean. Nearby the Sea Cliff Bridge extends over the ocean as it hugs the coast on its way to Austinmer, which has ocean pools built in 1914.

Wollongong, NSW’s third-largest city, has fine beaches, art galleries, restaurants and cafés. Stop and refresh with lunch or coffee at Belmore Basin in Wollongong Harbour. You can also stretch your legs along the Blue Mile, where you will see near the two lighthouses of Flagstaff Hill.

Nan Tien, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, is another fascinating place to visit.

Along the way there is lots to see and do. The Historical Aircraft Restoration Society Aviation Museum (HARS) holds Tarmac Days displaying some of the unique aircraft held at its headquarters at the Illawarra Regional Airport at Albion Park. Sit in some of the aircraft cockpits including an F-111C fighter bomber. HARS also hosts the thrilling Wings Over Illawarra aeronautical event every May.

From the world-famous Kiama Blowhole and beautiful beaches to delicious fresh produce, fun adventure rides and excellent golf, the picturesque Kiama region is enticing. Check out the exciting events calendar for festivals, markets and shows includes the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festivals. The food and wine experiences are delicious too, with the Kiama region growing bountiful produce available at the Kiama Farmers Market on Wednesdays.

Other wonderful attractions include great surf breaks, giant slides in a water theme park, Australia’s highest zip-line and golf courses in breathtaking locations.

Jervis Bay is 79km from Kiama. Just south of Kiama you will pass Gerroa, a delightful seaside escape at the northern end of beautiful Seven Mile Beach. Set amongst 40 hectares of landscaped gardens and parkland, the nearby Jamberoo Action Park has awesome waterslides and attractions to thrill the kids.

A natural wonderland, Jervis Bay is a perfect seaside escape. From the crystal-blue waters and resident dolphins to splendid beaches and fun water sports, this coastal paradise will delight you with many memorable experiences.

Explore two national parks bordering the Jervis Bay Marine Park, a haven for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, sea dragons and migrating whales. Discover spectacular views from Point Perpendicular Lighthouse on the northern tip and from Cape St George Lighthouse on the southern side.

Booderee National Park is a place of outstanding natural beauty located in Jervis Bay. Explore and enjoy a wide range of walks, surf at Cave Beach or swim amongst the fish in the tranquil waters of Green Patch Beach.

Explore scenic detours by following one of the inspiring hinterland drives to beautiful towns, enticing shops and cafes, and rejuvenating day spas. Explore the hinterland favourites of Berry, Kangaroo Valley and Milton, near Cupitt’s Winery and Brewery.

The Shoalhaven River, which flows through Nowra, and the Kangaroo River in Kangaroo Valley are popular areas for kayaking and other adventure activities.