Australia is blessed with diverse landscapes, incredible terrain, and wildlife that is unique to this destination. An island continent, its coastline extends to about 50,000 kilometers. It is home to over 11,500 beaches, making it a haven for travelers who love adventure, the wide open spaces, and jaw-dropping views that are hard to come by elsewhere. It also offers a great mix of nature with high chances of wildlife encounters, wine countries, and gourmet delicacies to savor as you explore this oceanic country.
But what’s the best way to explore this gorgeous oasis for vacationers? If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys the freedom to plan your itinerary, then pick some of the best-hidden gems to stop at and watch the landscape change before your eyes, then a road trip through the great outback is the perfect way to explore Australia! The coastline also offers several camping spots where you can get priceless views for a fraction of the cost. But with 50,000 kilometers of breathtaking coastlines, what’s the best route for a road trip?
Luckily, this guide to the best road trips across Australia should help you craft your holiday that will promise to be one of the best trips of your lifetime!
1. The Tropical North Queensland Drive
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip, journeying 2,000 kilometers from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown. Drive through World Heritage-listed reefs and rainforests to the golden outback savannah, experiencing the best of tropical Queensland.
Drive here for: Nature, UNESCO sites, and breathtaking water bodies
2.Drive Through Tasmania’s Western Wilds
Spanning over 1172 kilometers, it’s a 6-day drive through Tasmania. Tasmania's spectacular western region offers more than just its famous rugged coastline. Begin your adventure in Hobart and explore stunning National Parks like Mount Field, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers, and Lake St Clair. On Day 3, stop at the Iron Blow Lookout in the ghost town of Gormanston. In Strahan, catch Australia's longest-running play, 'The Ship That Never Was,' and enjoy a ride on the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway. The list of activities here is endless and this drive will leave you spellbound with an eclectic mix of trails and experiences best experienced by road.
Drive here for: Tasmanian national parks, gorgeous lakes, and postcard-perfect cafes
3. Driving to Kangaroo Island
Are you craving for an epic road trip? Well, think of a place where the only traffic is a mob of bouncing kangaroos and the only visitors stealing your spot on the beach are Australian sea lions. We are talking about Kangaroo Island, a showstopper family holiday destination brimming with unique wildlife experiences, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling attractions both natural and manmade. Begin your adventure in Adelaide, driving through the picturesque roads of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the charming port town of Cape Jervis – the gateway to Kangaroo Island. This journey promises unforgettable moments and stunning vistas at every turn.
Drive here for: Iconic views, lavender farms, kangaroo and seal spotting
4. The Grand Pacific Drive
Set off on the Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney and watch the city fade into the distance. This mini-break invites you to unwind as the road stretches out before you. Roll down your window and let the fresh coastal breeze fill the car. A beloved destination for summer vacationers, the stunning South Coast of New South Wales is renowned for its warm, welcoming locals and beautiful beaches. Extending all the way to the Victorian border, the South Coast offers endless areas to explore. If you can't see it all at once, enjoy a long weekend sampling both the coast and the countryside.
Driver here for: Whale watching, catching waves, and wineries
5. The South West Australian Road Trip
Set out on an unforgettable road trip through the extraordinary landscape of Western Australia's South West. Take your time to relax, soak in the stunning scenery, and savor the incredible food and wine this region has to offer. The South West Edge adventure spans 14 days and 1,200 kilometers from Perth to Esperance, highlighting the best of the area while allowing plenty of time to enjoy life's simple pleasures. Begin with a visit to the picturesque Rottnest Island, home to the world’s cutest and most photogenic marsupial, the quokka. Explore boutique wineries and breweries, or tackle the scenic hiking and mountain biking trails of Wellington Forest National Park. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Ngilgi Cave, with its vast cavern illuminated by stalactites and stalagmites. This journey promises to be a feast for the senses and a true escape into nature's wonders.
Drive here for: Raw nature, exotic wineries, and adventure activities
6. A 6-Day Road Trip to Grampians National Park
Just three hours west of Melbourne, the Grampians boast spectacular sandstone ridges, creating a breathtaking landscape of peaks and valleys, perfect for an action-packed six-day family road trip. This adventure lover’s paradise also offers activities from hiking and horse riding to hand-feeding kangaroos. Explore charming historic towns, marvel at jaw-dropping waterfalls, enjoy panoramic lookouts, and immerse yourself in adrenaline-pumping activities. The Grampians promise an unforgettable escape into nature's wonders, where you can meet more than 160 native and exotic species of animals at Halls Gap Zoo, go for a canoeing tour, and more. An absolute treat, this is a road trip you’ll wish would never end.
Drive here for: Beautiful landscapes, water activities, and kids-friendly
7. Sunshine Coast Road Trip
Queensland's Sunshine Coast is a paradise for families, boasting some of Australia’s best beaches and a hinterland brimming with hidden treasures. Stretching over 150 kilometers of pristine coastline, it's perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. But there's so much more to discover! Hit the roads with your family and venture inland to explore lush forests, charming farms, and quaint villages, all while enjoying a vibrant food and wine scene.
Drive her for: Nature trails, water activities, white sandy beaches, meet the koalas
8. Darwin to Katherine Road Trip
If you're visiting the Northern Territory, embark on a road trip that immerses you in the cultural and spiritual richness of Kakadu, Arnhem Land, and Katherine. Katherine, a tropical town just three hours from Darwin, feels worlds away from the modern hustle, and the journey there plunges you into the outback's timeless beauty. This five-day round trip from Darwin showcases the region's iconic landmarks and hidden gems, offering a blend of ancient culture and authentic Australiana. Experience the primeval landscapes and unforgettable adventures that make this journey a must for any traveler.
Drive here for: Museums and art galleries, National Parks
You’ve probably guessed by now that Australia has so much to offer and it’s difficult to choose a single route through this phenomenal country. It’s been luring adrenaline junkies and nature lovers for decades. The well-developed network of roads and connectivity also makes it the ideal destination for road trips. Whether you enjoy a self-drive experience, prefer having a driver, or opt for a tour organizer, there’s little to worry about when it comes to exploring the great outback.
A road trip doesn’t have to mean a lack of comfort and luxuries - choose from driving a 4X4 over challenging terrain for an adrenaline rush, Caravan through picturesque locations with the comforts of home or glamp out under the stars in style, Australia has plenty of options to choose from.
Renting a car in Australia: Five major operators are available at airports for hires - Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, and Europcar. Depending on where you’re starting your road trip, you can also check for local operators but be sure to understand the scope of operations.
Preparing for a road trip in Australia: Based on the route you will be opting for, make sure to read up on the terrain, choose the right kind of car, and ensure you plan for breakdowns. It’s important to have a good insurance plan and also budget for tolls that you may have to pay across the route. When hiring a car, you might need to sign a document with the terms and conditions - be sure to understand them well before embarking on your journey.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to rev your engine and head out to the incredible Australian outback. I bet you’ll return with stories as captivating as the sights you’ll see. It’s time to come and say G’day and find your adventure!
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In association with Tourism Australia
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