Perched high above the stunning Illawarra coastline, Bald Hill Headland Reserve offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in New South Wales. Famous worldwide as a premier hang-gliding and paragliding site, you can watch thrill-seekers soar gracefully over the ocean, creating a truly unforgettable backdrop. The reserve is also steeped in aviation history, featuring a memorial to pioneer Lawrence Hargrave, who conducted his famous box kite experiments right on this spot! Take a moment to breathe in the fresh ocean air, grab a coffee, and gaze out over the endless blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean. From this vantage point, you also get a picture-perfect, bird’s-eye view of the winding Sea Cliff Bridge below. It is the absolute perfect photo stop and a breathtaking introduction to the coastal scenery of the South Coast.

Experience the thrill of travelling along the Grand Pacific Drive, one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal touring routes! The absolute crown jewel of this journey is the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. A true marvel of modern engineering, this sweeping, 665-meter-long bridge is beautifully suspended right over the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, curving gracefully away from the sheer sandstone cliffs. As you drive across, you will feel as though you are gliding directly above the ocean waves. The bridge doesn't just offer an incredible driving experience; it provides unmatched, uninterrupted views of the dramatic coastline and the endless horizon. Keep a close lookout out to sea, as this elevated vantage point is excellent for spotting majestic manta rays, pods of playful dolphins, and even migrating whales during the season!

Prepare to be completely captivated by the sweeping vistas at Sublime Point Lookout. Situated perfectly on the edge of the lush Illawarra Escarpment, this incredible vantage point towers 400 meters above sea level, delivering breathtaking 180-degree panoramic views over the spectacular South Coast. As you stand at the edge, the entire Illawarra region unfolds dramatically before your eyes. You can trace the stunning string of golden beaches, deep blue ocean, and vibrant green rainforests stretching all the way down to Wollongong and far beyond. It is an extraordinary spot for photography, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the diverse landscape where the rugged mountains meet the sea. Take a peaceful moment to soak in the crisp mountain air, listen to the native bird calls, and marvel at the sheer scale of Australia's natural coastal beauty.

Nestled on the stunning Illawarra Escarpment just south of Sydney, Glenbernie Orchard in Darkes Forest is a beautiful, 6th-generation family farm with over 80 years of history. This picturesque property is famous for its fresh produce, award-winning beverages, and authentic farm experiences. During your visit, you will stop by the famous "Apple Shack" to indulge in a delicious tasting session. Sample a variety of farm-fresh products, including their signature local honeys and award-winning Darkes Cider. Adults can enjoy guided tastings of boutique alcoholic ciders and unique honey meads, while non-alcoholic fresh apple juices are available for everyone to enjoy. Take a stroll through the scenic grounds, soak up the fresh mountain air, or treat yourself to their famous homemade apple pie! Depending on the season, you may even have the opportunity to pick your own fresh apples, peaches, or nectarines straight from the branch. It's a deliciously authentic slice of Australian farm life!

Nan Tien Temple & Lotus Gardens Experience a profound sense of peace and spiritual tranquility at the magnificent Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the lush Illawarra region, this architectural masterpiece blends traditional Chinese palace design with modern grandeur. As you wander through the immaculate grounds, you will be captivated by the stunning gardens and the serene atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. A true highlight of your visit is the magnificent lotus pond. In Buddhist culture, the blooming lotus symbolizes purity, spiritual awakening, and resilience. Whether you are marveling at the towering golden statues in the Main Shrine or soaking in the quiet beauty of the lotus gardens, it is an unforgettable cultural retreat.

Step into a prehistoric world at the spectacular Minnamurra Rainforest, nestled within Budderoo National Park. This rare, protected remnant of subtropical rainforest offers a deeply immersive nature experience, fully accessible via a beautiful network of elevated boardwalks and suspension bridges spanning crystal-clear streams. As you wander the peaceful Rainforest Loop Walk, you will be surrounded by a lush green canopy, exotic ferns, and an incredible diversity of wildlife. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the famous superb lyrebird, friendly water dragons, and vibrant native parrots! The absolute highlight of this trail is standing face-to-face with nature’s true giants: the magnificent, 1,200-year-old Ficus trees (Strangler Figs). These ancient sentinels of the forest feature massive, intricate buttress root systems that stretch across the forest floor. Getting up close to these towering, millennium-old living wonders is an awe-inspiring, highly photogenic experience!

Prepare to witness the spectacular power of nature at the world-famous Kiama Blowhole! As the largest blowhole of its kind on Earth, this incredible geological marvel was formed from volcanic lava flows over 260 million years ago. When the ocean swells surge into the subterranean sea cave, seawater is violently forced upward, erupting into magnificent plumes that can shoot over 30 meters (100 feet) into the sky! The thunderous "whoosh" and the refreshing ocean spray make for a truly thrilling, multi-sensory experience. Standing proudly right beside this natural wonder is the beautiful Kiama Lighthouse. Established in 1887, this immaculately preserved, gleaming white beacon sits 36 meters above sea level and provides the ultimate photogenic backdrop for your visit. Enjoy the accessible viewing platforms to capture the perfect photo of a massive ocean eruption with the historic lighthouse in the frame. It is a spectacular blend of raw maritime power and rich local history!

Discover a true slice of coastal paradise at the world-famous Hyams Beach, located on the stunning shores of Jervis Bay! Renowned globally—and famously noted in the Guinness Book of Records—for having some of the whitest sand on Earth, this pristine stretch of coastline is an absolute must-see. As you step onto the beach, listen to the unique "squeak" of the ultra-fine, pure quartz sand beneath your toes. Enjoy ample free time to soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. Take a relaxing, barefoot stroll along the brilliant white shoreline, swim in the calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters, or simply lay down your towel and bask in the Australian sun. Framed by lush native bushland, Hyams Beach offers an incredibly photogenic and tranquil escape. Keep your eyes peeled out toward the bay, as playful dolphins are frequently spotted cruising just offshore. It is the perfect spot to unwind and capture postcard-perfect photos of your holiday!

Cap off your South Coast adventure with a truly authentic Australian wildlife encounter! While many tourists only see native animals in crowded zoos or enclosed parks, your expert guide will take you to a carefully selected, secret bushland location in the Jervis Bay area to observe wild kangaroos roaming completely free. Boasting an incredible 90% success rate for sightings, this exclusive experience allows you to quietly step into the natural habitat of the magnificent Eastern Grey Kangaroo. During the late afternoon, these gentle marsupials become highly active, emerging from the shade to graze peacefully in the coastal clearings. You will have the rare and magical opportunity to watch them through the bush—sometimes even with tiny joeys peeking out from their mothers' pouches! Enjoy plenty of time to take respectful, close-up photographs of these iconic Australian animals in the wild, creating a memory that will last a lifetime.