Who said you can’t experience nice things when you’ve got kids? Pack your bags, it’s road trip time.

There comes a time in every parent’s life when they no doubt ask themselves…will I ever enjoy a nice restaurant again? Let alone a weekend away that doesn’t involve multiple meltdowns in the car. And replacing romantic hotels and bottles of red wine by the fire with Airbnbs with bunk beds, optional high chairs and plastic plates in the cupboard.

But maybe you can have it all. We discovered that something magical happens when you combine stunning coastal drives, farm adventures, seaside cafes and more along the Grand Pacific Drive. Stretching 140 kilometres from Sydney’s Royal National Park through five distinct regions, including Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, and the Southern Highlands, this scenic route delivers the perfect blend of sophistication and kid-friendly adventure.

We mapped out the best stops where discerning parents can enjoy quality food and wine while children discover wildlife, science, and outdoor adventures.

First Stop, Wollongong: Animal Encounters and Waterfront Views

Feed kangaroos at Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh

Most parents living in South Sydney have probably been to or heard of Symbio. No doubt, plenty even have the annual pass. Spread across 20 beautifully landscaped acres, it houses over 500 animals from Australia and beyond. The real drawcard? Tickets include animal feed, guaranteeing those coveted up-close kangaroo encounters that make kids (and parents) squeal with delight. Plenty of photo moments! Located in nearby Helensburgh, it’s the perfect first stop when driving from Sydney. Cost: $44 per adult, $29 kids 3-15, family pass

Enjoy fine dining by the water at Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant, Wollongong

For over 30 years, this Wollongong institution has been serving fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views. The harbour-facing windows provide natural entertainment for restless diners (play spot the pelican), while the fresh menu keeps adults satisfied. The portions are very generous for both parents and kids, and they have colouring-in supplies ready to go. So mum and dad can sit back and relax with their sashmi platter and king prawn spaghetti nero, while the kids enjoy good old fish and chips.

UOW Science Space, North Wollongong

This is NSW’s only dedicated immersive science experience and is sure to engage both kids and adults. Interactive exhibits demonstrate how scientific discoveries translate into real-world applications. It’s the kind of place where children absorb learning without realising it, and parents discover they’re just as fascinated by the demonstrations.

Kiama: Airbnb Dreamstay, Coastal Walks and Sweet Treats

Relax and unwind at Bask at Loves Bay, Kiama Heights

Perched directly on the shoreline and literally positioned on the Kiama Coast Walk, this boutique accommodation redefines family-friendly luxury. This place caters to both romantic getaways and family adventures. The location means you can walk straight from your back door onto one of NSW’s most spectacular coastal walks. There are four bedrooms; two with queen beds, one with bunks and one with two single beds, so there’s room for two families if you’re choosing to holiday with friends or grandparents. We absolutely loved this house, it’s perfect for a relaxing weekend away.

Do part of the Kiama Coast Walk

This 20-kilometre journey threads through natural wonders including Cathedral Rocks, Boneyard Beach, and hidden coastal caves. We suggest tackling it in sections with kids, focusing on the most dramatic viewpoints rather than attempting the full distance. The beauty lies in experiencing the rugged coastline at your own pace, with plenty of spots to stop for snacks and photos.

Have breakfast with the locals at Penny Whistlers Cafe, Kiama 

This local favourite cafe is all about relaxed seaside dining and is perfect for a family breakfast. Expect decent coffee and plenty of menu options for everyone to choose from. The seaside location adds that holiday atmosphere that makes even a simple breakfast feel special.

Pro tip! The Kiama Seaside Markets are right in front of the cafe on the third Sunday of each month. Stroll through over 150 stalls filled with locally made crafts, boutique fashion, art, jewellery, homewares, and gourmet treats.

Grab takeaway from The Hill Kiosk at Gerringong

Sometimes the best family experiences come from the simplest pleasures. This local favourite has some seriously delicious doughnuts and cinnamon scrolls. Time your visit for mid-morning when everything’s fresh from the oven, grab some takeaways and head to the beach for a play in the sand, coffee in hand.

Soak up the views at Sea Vista Cafe, Gerringong

Sea Vista Cafe offers elevated views across Werri Beach and a menu that is sure to satisfy the whole family.  You can’t go wrong with the kids’ hotcakes (ice cream for breakfast is totally acceptable when you’re on holiday). They also make a delicious lassi smoothie. Their generous portions will help sustain a day of whale-watching adventures and coastal walks.

Shellharbour: Aviation Experiences and Marina Dining

Walk on the wing of a plane at HARS Aviation Museum

While only adults can walk across the wing of the Boeing 747, this remarkable museum creates an aviation adventure the whole family can share. The guided tour works well for mixed age groups. Parents can take turns on the wing walk while kids explore the aircraft interior, spotting details and capturing photos. The attention span of our 3 and 4-year-olds lasted about half an hour, but the older children were genuinely fascinated by the displays. This would also be a great place to bring the grandparents.

Order pizza and the seafood platter at Waterfront Tavern, Shellharbour Marina

Overlooking the marina’s sparkling waters, this venue delivers the kind of relaxed waterfront dining experience that makes parents remember why they love travelling with kids. Ordering is easy, straight from your table, and there are plenty of options. The margarita pizza was a hit with our kids while we enjoyed the seafood platter. We also took a little card game to play while we waited for our food, and the big screens in the background were showing sports, which Dad was happy about.

Shoalhaven: Whales and Waterfront Dining

Go Whale Watching with Jervis Bay Wild, Huskisson

Often whale watching promises more than it delivers, but Jervis Bay Wild go out of their way to provide rare encounters with migrating humpback whales. The intimate vessel size and knowledgeable crew, combined with Husskison’s pristine waters, provide an ideal backdrop for spotting these magnificent creatures. The entire experience lasts around 2-2.5 hours, and some sections can be quite rocky, making it less ideal for seasick children. But despite the small patch of complaining and sick bags at the ready, the kids said this was one of the best things on the whole trip and have been talking about the whales ever since. So it’s a success in our eyes. Pricing for the whale watching is $75 per adult, $38 for kids under 2-14 years, and free for those under 2.

Try the lasagna at Pasta Buoy, Huskisson

This unassuming pasta shop proves that authentic Italian doesn’t require white tablecloths or lengthy wine lists. We love venues that master one thing exceptionally well – fresh pasta made daily with genuine care. The option to take your meal down to Huskisson Beach transforms a simple lunch into an impromptu seaside picnic.

Pro tip! Leave room for gelato next door.

Experience native Australian ingredients at Bangalay Dining, Shoalhaven Heads

This multi-award-winning restaurant incorporates native Australian ingredients into creative yet approachable dishes. Their commitment to regional produce creates flavours that reflect the landscape you’ve been exploring. Although it’s mainly couples enjoying date night on a Saturday evening, we found the early sitting fine for kids. Their kids’ menu is seriously delicious with options such as grass-fed beef bolognese, house-made free-range chicken nuggets, and steamed cod with seasonal vegetables and potatoes. For the adults, their cocktails are a must-try, as is their olive oil focaccia with whipped black garlic butter and the Ulladulla bluefin tuna crudo with blood orange, pickled daikon and smoked oyster emulsion.

Southern Highlands: Farm Encounters, Photoshoots and French Dining

Meet farm animals and capture new family photos at The Swallow’s Nest, East Kangaloon

This working farm offers hands-on animal encounters. We watched the children’s faces light up as they brushed Highland cows and collected rainbow eggs. Host Belle creates genuine connections between visitors and farm life, making this more than just an animal petting session. She’s also an excellent photographer, and part of the experience includes a photoshoot. She sends a link to the images afterwards for you to download and keep. She offers private, guided animal encounters. You’ll meet, feed and interact with a variety of animals including Highland cows, horses, yabbies, peacocks and chickens. Bookings are by appointment only. Thursday- Sunday. 10am, 12:30pm & 3:30pm. $240 for groups of 1-6 people. Suitable for all ages 60-90 minutes.

Pack the iPads and enjoy a romantic dinner at Bistro Sociale, Bowral

This European-style bistro serves French-inspired seasonal cuisine in the picturesque setting of the Southern Highlands. We appreciate restaurants that understand sophisticated dining doesn’t mean excluding families. The relaxed atmosphere creates an environment where parents can savour quality food while children feel comfortable. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the leafy surroundings that make the Highlands so appealing during cooler months.

Planning Your Grand Pacific Drive Adventure

The Grand Pacific Drive proves that family travel doesn’t require compromising on quality; it simply requires knowing where to look for experiences that cater to everyone’s needs.

Each region offers distinct experiences, and the two-hour drive from either Sydney or Canberra makes this achievable as either a weekend escape or an extended holiday

For more information and to plan your route, visit grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand