Hey there, Maxxis Man here. With the end of the year just around the corner and those summer holidays now in sight – at Maxxis we’re keen to help you use your well-earned days of rest exploring some of the lovely countryside and ocean roads in this amazing country of ours. Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip, something serene and scenic with spectacular views, or even somewhere adventurous and rugged off-the-beaten-track – I could have just the suggestion* to get you exploring and enjoying. So, if you’re coming for the ride — put on those seatbelts, turn up the music and let’s get your wheels rolling….
Where are we going:
First up for all you Sydneysiders (or visitors to Sydney who want to see more than just the beautiful harbour area), let’s take a trip out of Sydney down the picturesque South Coast to Kiama, a town in the very heart of this area. There’s so much to see and do on the way, with some impressive lookouts and places to stop off for a coffee, breakfast or swim in the ocean, with our end goal of seeing the Kiama Blowhole which by the way, is not only absolutely magnificent but is also the largest in the world!
What car to drive and the all-important question of tyres:
There’s nothing better than driving with the roof down and music pumping – in a luxury sedan sports car or convertible fitted with Maxxis HP5 or MA511 tyres. For a family day out, a Toyota Kluger with HT770’s would also do the job perfectly!
What to pack:
Just before we head off, make sure that your tyres are correctly inflated and you’ve packed what you need for the day – including your swimmers/boardies, beach towel, and that all-important sunscreen! There’s a fantastic picnic area in Kiama so an Eskie with your BBQ essentials could also be a good idea. There are also plenty of great cafes and restaurants in Kiama and my personal favourite, fish and chips. And don’t forget your bike (there are some exceptional tracks along the way to explore if you choose to, and your dog (if you have one) as this is a trip that you can comfortably do in a day and he won’t want to miss out on the fun.
How to get there and where to stop:
If you want to get there more quickly you can go direct by heading out of Sydney on the Princess Highway (A1) and following this pretty much all the way. But then again, it is the holidays! So, although it will take a little longer – the scenic route is where you’ll see all the best things. If you’re going for Option 2 — travel for about an hour on the Princess Highway and head off at the entrance of the Royal National Park at Loftus (there’s an entrance fee of $12 per vehicle). You can get out and make the most of the park (on foot or bike), but otherwise it’s a lovely drive which crosses the Hacking River and takes you to the Governor Game Lookout. Another 20 minutes and you get to the stunning Otford Lookout, then about 10 more to the Stanwell Tops Lookout – which also has beautiful views and a restaurant. Breath and enjoy!
From here you’ll take Lawrence Hargrave Drive towards Coalcliff and travel the coastal road (a good dual lane road) with the ocean right there beside you – as you head over the amazing Sea Cliff Bridge. You’ll then go through lots of lovely little coastal towns including Austinmer (with a great swimming beach) and Thirroul, then wind your way through Bulli, North Wollongong and back onto the A1 (which becomes the M1) to head to Kiama.
The Sights along the Way:
Ok team – this is a big question as there is just so much to see! If you’ve read this far you’ll know there are plenty of lookouts and places to stop along the way – not to mention the pretty coastal towns, all of which have lots to offer.
Definitely take a moment to appreciate the views from Bulli Pass and take a dip at Austinmer beach (there’s a great café and ice cream shop directly across the road).
You can also make the most of your entrance fee in the National Park, by enjoying a bike ride on one of the many trails offered.
When you get to Kiama you’ll be spoilt for choice, with the lighthouse (still in operation today) and famous blowhole, rockpools on both sides of the harbour and 10 beaches in the area which are perfect for your choice of swimming, surfing or fishing. There are also many amazing walks in the area and adventure activities, with action theme park Jamberoo just 11 km away. And if you want to stay longer, there are plenty of accommodation options from self-catering apartments to hotels, right in Kiama and the surrounding areas.
And now for the fun part, it’s over to you. So… from myself and Team Maxxis, remember to check those tyres, buckle up and happy holidays!
*Please note: The information offered in this blog is of a general nature only and should in no respect replace detailed research, travel and safety preparations as relevant to your individual requirements and vehicle.
