900km of Stunning Coastline Between Australia's Two Largest Cities
The Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is one of Australia's greatest road trips. Hire a campervan and experience white-sand beaches, rugged coastline, charming seaside towns, and incredible wildlife along this iconic 900km route.
The drive from Sydney to Melbourne along the coast is a journey through some of Australia's most beautiful scenery. Covering approximately 900 kilometres via the Princes Highway and coastal roads, this route takes you past white-sand beaches, through ancient forests, along dramatic clifftop roads, and through charming seaside towns that feel a world away from the big cities.
A one-way campervan hire from Sydney to Melbourne is the perfect way to experience this route. You'll have the flexibility to stop wherever catches your eye, spend extra time at the places you love, and camp at beautiful beachfront locations along the way. Most travellers take between 3 and 7 days, though the route rewards a slower pace.
We compare one-way campervan hire deals from Sydney to Melbourne across all major rental companies. This is Australia's most popular one-way route, so competition keeps prices low and relocation specials are common.
One of Australia's top-rated road trips with stunning ocean views, pristine beaches, and charming towns.
Pick up in Sydney, drop off in Melbourne — no backtracking. One-way fees are competitive on this popular route.
Spot whales (seasonal), kangaroos, wombats, penguins at Phillip Island, and seals along the coast.
Camp at beautiful coastal campgrounds with ocean views and beach access throughout the journey.
Extend your trip to include Victoria's famous Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles.
Here's our recommended 7-day itinerary for the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive, with time to enjoy the highlights without rushing.
The Sydney to Melbourne coast is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here are the must-see stops:
The Princes Highway is a well-maintained two-lane highway for most of the route. It's suitable for all vehicle types including large motorhomes. Fuel stations are regular, with the longest gaps being around 60–80km in some sections through East Gippsland.
If you have extra time, consider detouring via the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne — one of the world's most scenic coastal drives. You can return your campervan in Melbourne after completing the loop, or arrange drop-off at Avalon Airport.
Collect your campervan from any of our 10 depots across Australia