Australia is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse terrains, making it a paradise for road travel. From the rugged outbacks to the scenic coastal roads along breathtaking shorelines, Australia features some of the world's most iconic and memorable road trips. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or an insider's view of this land's unique culture and history, there is a perfect road trip for you. Here are seven of the finest road trips in Australia that will provide you with a taste of natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and unforgettable memories.
The Great Ocean Road is renowned as one of Australia's most iconic and beautiful road trips. It stretches 240 kilometres from Torquay to Allensford along the southeast coast of Victoria. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and charming towns that attract locals and tourists. There are numerous places to visit along the Great Ocean Road, including Torquay, Bells Beach, Lorne, and Apollo Bay. You can enjoy this destination year-round, but the best times to visit are September to November and March to May.
The Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales is one of Australia's most stunning coastal drives. It stretches approximately 140 kilometres from the Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, to the coastal city of Wollongong. This drive features dramatic beaches, beautiful rainforests, and charming seaside towns, making it a highly scenic route. Begin your adventure by driving through the Royal National Park, and stop at Bald Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views over Stanwell Park and the coastline. The best times to visit are September to November and March to May.
Western Australia's Coral Coast Highway offers a scenic drive along the coastline from Perth to Exmouth and even as far as Carnarvon. This route features beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes, and abundant marine life, making it one of the most stunning journeys in Australia. The total distance is approximately 1,200 kilometres, so it's best to take your time and appreciate the numerous attractions and breathtaking natural wonders along the way. The ideal times to visit the Coral Coast Highway are in March and October.
The journey from Hobart to Bruny Island in Tasmania is a beautiful and enjoyable drive, making it one of Australia's most enticing destinations for food enthusiasts. It typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the ferry terminal, followed by a ferry ride across the D'Entrecasteaux Channel to Bruny Island. While on the island, visit the Neck Lookout, which offers breathtaking views of the narrow isthmus that connects North and South Bruny. The best times to visit Bruny Island are from December to February and March to May.
Queensland is home to one of the most famous and beautiful coastal drives: the Great Barrier Reef Drive. This scenic route extends approximately 140 kilometres from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. It winds through sandy beaches, rainforests, and crystal-clear waters, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef and its surroundings. Along the Great Barrier Reef Drive, you can stop at various attractions such as Cairns, Trinity Beach, Palm Cove, and Ellis Beach, among others. The best time to visit is from May to October.
The Explorer's Way is a road trip that takes you through South Australia and into the Northern Territory, offering an adventurous journey with plenty to explore at each stop. Travellers can experience diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and a rich history. This route extends approximately 3,000 kilometres, beginning in Adelaide, South Australia, and ending in Darwin, Northern Territory. As you travel, you will encounter various landscapes, ranging from the red desert and arid outback to the lush tropical regions in the north.
The Red Center Way is one of the Northern Territory's most exciting tours, offering a journey through the heart of Australia. It's the perfect way to explore some of the country's most famous natural wonders and Indigenous culture. This route connects Alice Springs to major outdoor destinations, allowing visitors to experience the stunning desert landscapes and ancient rock formations that define the region. The Red Center Way is a circular route of approximately 1,140 kilometres, starting and ending in Alice Springs. The tour showcases some of the most iconic landscapes of Australia's outback, including Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon, and the West MacDonnell Ranges. The best time to visit the Red Center Way is from April to October when the weather is cooler.