Roadtrip Sydney to Wooli – A Coastal Adventure for the Family
Sydney to Wooli via Mullaway:
- Total Distance: Roughly 580-600 km (slightly shorter if you take this route).
- Total Drive Time: Around 7 to 7.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Calling all adventure lovin’ families! Prepare for an unforgettable coastal getaway with your little explorers courtesy of our exciting itinerary for a great Roadtrip Sydney to Wooli. You’ll be travelling from hectic Sydney to the tranquil shores of Wooli, and it’s tailor-made for families travelling with children. We’ve included fabulous beaches for splashing about, charming regional towns with colourful markets and wildlife parks, and of course, deliciously good food hubs! And just as importantly, there are plenty of pit stops as well for stretching little legs.
You’ll get a good taste of Port Macquarie, a recommended couple of days in Mullaway, experience Yamba and finally to tranquil, comfy Wooli with some incredible sea views. Besides the destinations, you’ll cherish quality family time in the car and out—sharing stories, playing games, and creating cherished memories along the stunning NSW coast. So, pack up, gather your kids, and hit the road for a fantastic adventure—it promises to be a mighty exciting trip!
All up, from Sydney to Wooli, you’ll be travelling by car approximately 400kms, taking 5 hrs in total.
1. Sydney to Newcastle
- Distance: Approximately 160 km
- Drive Time: Approx, 2 hrs
- Welcome to Newcastle –the perfect start to your family road trip! Begin your adventure at Newcastle Beach, where kids can splash in the waves and engineer some seriously impressive sandcastles. If the weather’s too chilly for swimming, no worries! Head to Treetops Adventure Park will send their hearts racing with high-flying thrills in the canopy! Once hunger starts, take a leisurely jaunt up to Nobbys Head Lighthouse for sweeping coastal views. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or maybe even a passing whale – you might just get lucky!
- When it’s time for a bit of brain food, Newcastle Museum serves up brilliant interactive exhibits and virtual tours that’ll captivate everyone. The Supernova science exhibition is a hit with its hands-on activities and experiments – perfect for little Einsteins!
- For lunch, the crew at Scotties or Scratchleys on the Wharf. Alternatively, if you’re craving something different, swing by the popular Bocados Spanish Kitchen for scrumptious tapas or The Hood Milk Bar for a retro vibe and lip-smacking milkshakes – ideal for a quick refuel with hot chips.
- Looking for something sweet? Newy Burger Co has the scoop on great burgers, including veggie options, while Cold Rock Ice Creamery at The Junction lets you concoct your own ice cream masterpieces – always a crowd-pleaser! Glten free? No problem! Artisan gelato is a must try here.
Newcastle Treetops Adventure NSW
2. Newcastle to Port Macquarie
- Distance: Approx. 245 km
- Drive time: 2 hrs 43 min
- Welcome to Port Macquarie – If the kids are eager to meet Australia’s favourite tree hugger, visit the Koala Hospital and learn about these cuddly critters.Afterward, take a stroll along Town Beach for some beachcombing fun or let the kids enjoy the local skatepark.
- Forgot the boards? No problem! Hike to Tacking Point Lighthouse for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and catch your breath.
- When hunger strikes, head to The Stunned Mullet for some elegant seafood, though you might need to convince the kids first! Alternatively, keep things casual with Burger Urge and fries, washed down with epic shakes.

3. Port Macquarie to Mullaway
- Distance: Approx. 182 km
- Drive time: 2 hrs
- Welcome to Mullaway! Mullaway Beach is perfect for beachcombing, where the kids can hunt for treasures washed ashore. Who knows, they might even find a message in a bottle!
- For some extra excitement, visit the local skatepark where your little daredevils can practice their moves. If nature is more their thing, hike along the headland trails and keep an eye out for kangaroos or koalas in the treetops.
- After all that adventure, refuel at a local hotspot known for hearty burgers and shakes. And for dessert? There’s a nearby spot where you can create your own ice cream flavors – sure to earn you “coolest parent” points!
- For the arty kids, Mullaway Creative offers fun workshops with beach-themed activities that spark creativity.
- Looking for somewhere to stay? Travellarks accommodation in coastal Mullaway, a short walk to the beach. Their pet-friendly and very unique accommodation is just a short walk from the beach, perfect if you’re travelling with fur babies.

4. Mullaway to Yamba
- Distance: Approx. 90 km, 1.5 hrs
- Welcome to Yamba – a friendly small town with stunning beaches! Watch dolphins perform acrobatics as you take in the views. Don’t forget the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast, and Whiting Beach is ideal for swimming and family picnics (but watch out for those sneaky seagulls eyeing your sandwich!).
- Yamba is also great for outdoor fun. Take a thrilling dolphin and whale-watching tour for up-close encounters with ocean giants. Back on land, the kids can show off their skating skills at Yamba Skate Park or enjoy bowling at Yamba Bowlo, where a light show keeps things exciting.
- When it’s time to refuel, Sea Salt and Beachwood Café offer delicious, fresh seafood. For kids, Yamba is packed with activities, from surfing lessons to kayaking on the Clarence River.
- But Yamba isn’t just about beaches. It’s also a treasure trove of local history! The Yamba Museum showcases maritime artifacts, and if you’re passing through on the 4th Sunday of the month, don’t miss the Yamba River Markets for some sweet treats.

5. Yamba to Wooli
- Distance: Approx. 45 km, 45 min
- Welcome to Wooli – Enjoy the coastal scenery around Yuraygir National Park and the Red Rock walking track. Here, you can take things slow with beach walks, shell collecting, and relaxing picnics with ocean views.
- Want more adventure? Rent kayaks or paddle boards and explore the river, or join a guided wildlife tour to spot dolphins and local birds. The kids will love building sandcastles on the beach or exploring tidal pools teeming with marine life.
- Finish the day with a casual seafood meal at a local café, or enjoy classic fish and chips by the beach.
- Looking for a place to stay? Unwind in the retro beachfront house, Kokomo @Wooli. You’ll take things real slow here and savour extra family memories in your coastal getaway with Travellarks,
Kokomo Wooli dining lounge and panoramic views to Solitary Islands
Tips:
- Timing: Start early to make the most of daylight hours and allow for leisurely stops
- Accommodation: Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons. Travellarks in Mullaway and Wooli, provide unique and comfortable stays for the family and pooch.
If you think Mullaway and Wooli are amazing holiday destinations, check out our Stays with a WOW accommodation.Â