Lawrence Hargrave Drive in NSW is one of the most beautiful coastal roads
Located on the south coast of New South Wales, in Australia, Lawrence Hargrave Drive is said to be one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the country.
Why is it called Lawrence Hargrave Drive?
The road is named in honor of Lawrence Hargrave, a pioneering Australian engineer, inventor, and aviator who made significant contributions to the development of human flight. Born in 1850 in England and later settling in Australia, Hargrave is best known for inventing the box kite, which played a vital role in the early study of aerodynamics. In 1894, he used a series of box kites to lift himself off the ground at Stanwell Park, a coastal area the road passes through. Hargrave chose not to patent his inventions, believing that scientific progress should be freely shared — a decision that helped inspire future aviation breakthroughs, including those by the Wright brothers. The road bearing his name follows part of the dramatic coastline where he once conducted his experiments, serving as a lasting tribute to his vision, courage, and contributions to flight.
When was Lawrence Hargrave Drive built?
Part of the Grand Pacific Drive, this popular tourist drive is totally paved. The road was originally constructed in the 1870s and had a long history of rockfalls and embankment failure.
How long is Lawrence Hargrave Drive?
The road is 19.8 km (12.30 miles) long and runs south-north from B65 Road near Bulli (a northern suburb of Wollongong) to Princes Highway, on Stanwell Tops.
Is Lawrence Hargrave Drive worth it?
Located in the northern Illawarra region, the road allows drivers to experience Wollongong's spectacular coasts. The most famous sections of the road are two bridges known as Sea Cliff Bridge and the adjoining Lawrence Hargrave Drive Bridge.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez