Sea Cliff Bridge, Australia

 

A Breathtaking Journey on the Sea Cliff Bridge: A Local's Guide #Kiama Blowhole #Sea Cliff Bridge #Wollongong

Have you ever driven along a road with a dramatic mountain on one side and a deep blue ocean on the other? That's exactly what you'll experience on your way to the Kiama Blowhole! And perched right at the edge, there's a hidden gem - the Sea Cliff Bridge.

On our return trip from Sydney, we decided to stop over at this incredible spot. The bridge itself is quiet and peaceful, a haven for those who know about it. It offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the mountains, making it a perfect place to take a break and soak in the scenery.

A Bridge with a History

Did you know? The Sea Cliff Bridge, along with the adjoining Lawrence Hargrave Drive Bridge, are twin bridges carrying scenic Lawrence Hargrave Drive across the Illawarra escarpment near Wollongong. Construction began in 2004 and was completed in just two years. It's a marvel of engineering, combining cantilever and girder bridge designs.

For the most breathtaking vista of the bridge and the vast ocean, head to Bald Hill Lookout. Photographers flock here to capture the bridge's grandeur against the endless blue. However, parking can be limited, with only space for about 15 cars.

Planning Your Visit

There are a few ways to reach the Sea Cliff Bridge:

• By Car: From Sydney, take the M1 (Motorway 1) and exit at Helensburgh. Follow signs to Stanwell Park and then stay on Lawrence Hargrave Drive. The drive from Wollongong takes about 40 minutes via Memorial Drive to Bulli and then right onto Lawrence Hargrave Drive.
• By Train: Take the South Coast Line from Sydney Central (around 1.5 hours). The trip itself is scenic, especially through Helensburgh and Thirroul.
• By Bus: The Premier Illawarra Bus runs Monday-Saturday between Stanwell Park and Wollongong (excluding public holidays) and stops on either side of the bridge.

Important Safety Tips

The area around the Sea Cliff Bridge can be quiet, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

• We experienced very light traffic on the bridge ourselves, which can feel a bit unsettling.
• Avoid climbing the mountain behind the bridge. The track can be dangerous with loose dirt, mud, and steep inclines. Warning signs are posted for your safety. Climbing requires proper mountaineering gear and footwear.
• The walk from south to north on the bridge takes about 15 minutes. For the most stunning visuals, aim for sunrise (8-9 am) when the sun paints the horizon with vibrant colors.

The Verdict: A Must-See!

Despite some safety considerations, walking and driving the Sea Cliff Bridge is an experience not to be missed. The breathtaking views and unique bridge architecture make it a true gem of the New South Wales South Coast.

Pictures of the Sea Cliff Bridge,

Text and Photos by- Ashok Karan,

Ashokkaran.blogspot.com