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The Ultimate Australia Road Trippin’ Guide — 10 Itineraries For The Perfect Adventure of a Lifetime

From cities to coasts and national parks to natural beauties, an epic road trip is the best way to explore Australia!

Recently, I rented a Blue SG car with my best friend and had a wild time driving 17km from Yishun to Hougang. It barely qualifies as a road trip, but it reminded me of my last trip to Australia . If you didn’t know already, it’s one of the sweetest places for a truly epic road trip!

Across the country, there are tons of routes packed with scenery, action and adventure. And it’s friendly for beginners (a.k.a. driving noobs) too!

It’s a bummer we can’t travel right now, but I’ve found that an instant mood lifter is to get your ‘ revenge travel ‘ plans in order (i.e. a long post-COVID-19 trip that makes up for lost time) — so here are 10 of the best Australia road trips to go full throttle on once we get the green light! 🟢

1) Coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne

Journey time: 4–8 days (~1,300km) Starting point: Sydney Airport (~8hr flight from Singapore)

Between two of Australia’s largest cities, the coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) is sensational. Every inch of the way from New South Wales to Victoria offers quirky seaside towns, golden beaches and wondrous ocean views.

Part of the route includes the Grand Pacific Drive , a 140km stretch along New South Wales’s South Coast . It covers gorgeous attractions like the Royal National Park and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge .

The drive from Sydney to Melbourne is perfectly beginner-friendly. There are many stops along the route whenever you need to stretch your legs.

Read more: Sydney South Coast Road Trip — 7-Day Itinerary From Sydney to Eden

Now, onto the epic must-dos. First, sign up for some adrenaline-pumping skydiving over Wollongong . Above the magnificent coast, you’ll freefall at speeds over 200km/h, wayyy faster than you’ll ever go on your road trip!

Photo credit: @kattgao via Instagram

After Wollongong, drop by the Kiama Blowhole and be blown away. Well, not literally, but there’s a good chance of getting soaked.

Alternatively, if you’re road trippin’ during summer, spend a night or two in Jervis Bay . You might be lucky enough to catch the phenomenal sea sparkles , or bioluminescence.

Once you’ve crossed the border into Victoria , get ready for even more wow’s (and aww’s ). For nature lovers, don’t miss the adorable Penguin Parade on Phillip Island . It’s a heart-melting treat watching these little fellas waddle out of the ocean and scuttle around the beach.

Check out other island activities like scenic walks and visiting the cuddly Koala Reserve too!

Photo credit: @helenabradbury via Instagram

Before you reach Melbourne , make one last stop at Mornington Peninsula . Here, you can drink deep at exquisite wineries and explore the stellar coastline at Cape Schanck (recommended by Chris Hemsworth 🤩).

Got another week to spare? Extend your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide just next door! Alternatively, if you’re flying out from Sydney , make the return drive from Melbourne to Sydney via the inland route . After coasts and busy beaches, you can now enjoy the quiet countryside and historic gold-mining towns.

2) Ultimate Australian Outback road trip from Darwin to Adelaide

Journey time: 10–14 days (~3,000km) Starting point: Darwin Airport (4.5hr flight from Singapore)

Cutting across the vast outback, the drive from Darwin to Adelaide takes you through a series of wonderful and unusual landscapes. You’ll pass miles of red earth in the Northern Territory before reaching South Australia’s world-renowned wineries.

This adventurous route is more suited for seasoned travellers as you might be driving long distances (depending on your itinerary). Petrol stations are also few and far between, so plan carefully and refuel at every stop.

To eager first-timers, don’t let the long drives stop you from diving into this road trip! Just add a few more days for exploration and extra rest.

Photo credit: @exploreuluru via Instagram

Deep in the heart of the Red Centre , the hallmark of this outback road trip is the monumental Uluru . Get to know it your way — see it from above with a badass helicopter ride , or join a cultural tour and learn about the sacred land and Aboriginal culture.

Photo credit: @nealjennings via Instagram

Eight hours away lies the strange town of Coober Pedy . It’s the opal mining capital of the world, but the show-stealer is that the locals live underground to avoid the scorching heat!

Staying a night here is a must. It’s not every day you get to live in a posh B&B carved out of natural sandstone, especially one located 25m below .

Photo credit: @alan.timms1 via Instagram

If you thought Coober Pedy was mind-blowing, wait till you hit the Flinders Ranges .

The national park is home to incredibly dramatic landscapes like Wilpena Pound , a massive bowl-shaped crater made up of craggy mountains. The best way to see it is through an exciting scramble up to its rugged ridges or a relaxing scenic flight .

Photo credit: @ashhughesphotos via Instagram

After days of non-stop adventure, wine down in the Barossa Valley — reputed as one of the world’s greatest wine regions. There are over 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors, so take your time to swirl and sip Australia’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon or special Barossa Shiraz.

The excitement doesn’t have to end in Adelaide ! Not too far from the city, there are plenty of jaw-dropping coastlines that are ripe for exploring, which brings us to our next route…

3) Scenic South Australia road trip — Southern Ocean Drive from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island and Mount Gambier

Journey time: 5–7 days (~500–1,200km) Starting point: Adelaide Airport (~7hr flight from Singapore)

With an abundance of coastal scenery, tasty wines and native wildlife, the Southern Ocean Drive is one of the loveliest, lesser-known road trips in Australia. In fact, some consider it a ‘sequel’ to Victoria’s Great Ocean Road drive (more on this later)!

The route is great for beginner road trippers as there are plenty of stops to pull over at. Plus, attractions are relatively nearby one another. It’s likely you won’t drive for longer than three to four hours each day.

Photo credit: @officialfleurieupeninsula via Instagram

South Australia produces half of all the wine in the country, so there’s no excuse not to indulge! Make your first stop at McLaren Vale in Fleurieu Peninsula . It’s home to some of the world’s oldest grapevines, and serves the most delectable wines and local produce you might ever taste in your life.

Photo credit: @promotemytown via Instagram

Nature and wildlife lovers would adore Kangaroo Island . A good part of it is protected in nature reserves, so it’s no surprise to meet wild ‘roos and see other wildlife roaming free!

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

To make your Kangaroo Island experience more unique, stay the night in a quaint cottage by Cape Willoughby Lighthouse . You’ll enjoy a well-deserved package: Exclusive privacy, calming sounds of crashing waves, and a magnificent sunrise view.

If you only have a few days, keep the road trip short and explore Kangaroo Island fully. Otherwise, take a ferry back to the mainland and continue your coastal journey.

Photo credit: @discover_mount_gambier via Instagram

Situated along the Limestone Coast , Mount Gambier is a city built atop an extinct volcano. Its main attraction is the mysterious Blue Lake , a huge crater lake. From April to November, the water is a distinct greyish-blue colour. But once November rolls around, it transforms into a striking turquoise blue.

The Blue Lake is not permitted for swimming, but its smaller cousin is! Satisfy your urge to dip at the Little Blue Lake , a giant sinkhole filled with pleasantly cool waters. It’s free to enter, and makes an awesome photo spot too!

Photo credit: @sarahafindlay via Instagram

4) Northern Territory Top End Nature’s Way Drive from Darwin to Katherine

Journey time: 8 days (~900km) Starting point: Darwin Airport (4.5hr flight from Singapore)

Top End Nature’s Way features a fantastic mix of tropical wonders and the fascinating Australian outback. Peppered with spectacular national parks, timeless Aboriginal culture, and the charming town of Katherine — this triangular route is especially geared for outdoor lovers.

Adventurous as it may be, the drive from Darwin to Katherine is actually easy. Main attractions are about three hours from each other. Roads are also well-paved, so you don’t need four-wheel drives (4WD). What you do need, though, are your best hiking shoes!

Photo credit: @_danieltran_ via Instagram

The first must-visit is Kakadu National Park , Australia’s largest. Take a walk through  Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) , an ancient rock art gallery that showcases Aboriginal traditions. Or, pack your bathers and dip in the beautiful Gunlom Plunge Pool .

Photo credit: @traveling_yorick via Instagram

The huge park is also home to boatloads of exotic wildlife, including 10,000 crocodiles ! Feed your curiosity and join a croc-spotting cruise — you might catch these prehistoric beasts basking lazily in the sun, or silently stalking their next meal.

Photo credit: Tourism Australia

In Katherine, travellers usually make a beeline for Nitmiluk National Park , and it’s easy to see why. The highlight is the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge , a deep sandstone gorge that transports you to another realm.

While cruises are available, enjoy a bigger thrill by hiring a canoe . During the dry season (May–Sep), you’ll get enchanting views while paddling through ancient landscapes.

Photo credit: @fewdaysbetween via Instagram

Finally, after days of fast-paced action, cool off at Litchfield National Park on your drive back to Darwin. The park has plenty of lush swimming holes, great for refreshing soaks.

In need of more adventure? Fly down to Alice Springs from Darwin and explore the Red Centre Way ! The route snakes through mighty attractions like Uluru and Kings Canyon . Seasoned travellers can rent a 4WD and zip through Mereenie Loop , a dusty dirt road.

Read more: 40 Lesser-Known Things to Do in Australia Highly Recommended by Locals, Travellers and Celebrities  

5) Grand Tasmania road trip — Great Eastern Drive from Hobart to Bicheno and the Bay of Fires

Journey time: 2–5 days (~300km) Starting point: Hobart Airport (~8.5hr flight from Singapore)

Whether you’ve got a week or a weekend, Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive promises a road trip getaway that’ll clear your head. Expect breathtaking coastal drives, pristine beaches and some of the freshest seafood around.

The drive from Hobart to Bicheno is mainly on sealed roads and highways, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned travellers. Plus, attractions are less than two hours from each other!

Photo credit: Maria Island Walk / Great Walks of Australia

Start your trip by disconnecting from civilisation. Take a 30-minute ferry ride from Orford to Maria Island . Hike to the Painted Cliffs , made magical by its bold swirls of earthy colours. The best time to view it is at sunset when the colours truly pop — just be sure you make it back to the ferry on time!

Photo credit: @itsworthashot via Instagram

Back on mainland Tasmania , dedicate a full day for Freycinet National Park . Wake early (or try your best to) and follow the Mount Amos trail to see Wineglass Bay at sunrise. The famous azure bay looks completely different when it’s bathed in a warm orange glow.

For the rest of the day, treat yourself to juicy, succulent oysters from Freycinet Marine Farm . Or, you could always work a little harder and harvest oysters straight from the waters.

Photo credit: @lady_siu_mei via Instagram

Wildlife lovers, stop by Bicheno for a cute penguin tour . Every evening, little penguins splash out of the waters and waddle around their burrows on the beach. The tour lets you get up close to watch them go about their adorably busy routines.

Photo credit: @_aswewander via Instagram

Finally, drive an hour from Bicheno to the legendary Bay of Fires . Clumped together on the white sand beach, the orange lichen-covered granite boulders are a great place to rest, swim, and take lots of lit photos .

Read more: 16 Picture-Perfect Places Every Australia Itinerary Needs

6) Best of Victoria road trip — Great Southern Touring Route from Bellarine Peninsula to Great Ocean Road and the Grampians

Journey time: 5–8 days (~850km) Starting point: Melbourne Airport (~7.5hr flight from Singapore)

No Australia road trip is more iconic than the Great Southern Touring Route ! You’ll feast well at the gastronomical Bellarine Peninsula , before winding along the marvellous coastline of the Great Ocean Road , and end with adventures in the Grampians .

The weeklong, round-trip drive is great for beginners. Most attractions are within two to three hours from each other, and there are plenty of stops along the way for rest and photos. Add more days if possible — this is one brilliant journey you don’t want to rush.

Photo credit: @littlemusselcafe via Instagram

If you’re travelling to the coasts first, make a quick detour to the Bellarine Peninsula . Bring an empty stomach — the up-and-coming region serves delicious local produce, from insanely fresh seafood to full-bodied wines and decadent desserts.

Recommended eateries include the Little Mussel Cafe , Scotchmans Hill , and the Scandinavian Ice Cream Company . Or, plan your own yummy Bellarine Taste Trail !

And now, the main event: The Great Ocean Road . Take your time for this leg of the journey! It’s totally normal to stop every few minutes and take photos of the unbelievable coastline. But, make sure you’ve allocated enough time to see all its classic sights — the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, the Arch and the Grotto.

As you drive back inland, stop at the Grampians , another must-visit attraction. The National Park is popular with outdoor lovers and travellers, who come to rock climb or conquer its adventurous treks.

If you only have time for one hike, make it the Pinnacle Lookout , one of the park’s highest peaks. The journey from Wonderland Car Park is moderately challenging, but filled with scenery that makes it a highly Instagrammable spot .

For a less gruelling hike, head to MacKenzie Falls . It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria that flows all year round.

Read more: 8D Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary — The Ultimate Road Trip Around Victoria’s Best Adventures

If you’re craving more coastal scenery, extend your Victoria road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide . The route includes Port Fairy , a whimsical seaside town, and picturesque Mount Gambier .

7) Hidden gems in the Australian Capital Territory — Canberra and Coast road trip

Journey time: 5–6 days (~650km) Starting point: Canberra Airport (8hr flight from Singapore)

For an unhurried escape, go on a picturesque road trip around Canberra and the South Coast . This round-trip route meanders from the city to the countryside and coast, topped with a mix of culture, adventure, and best of all — food!

As the road trip is relatively short, it’s great for beginners. Depending on your itinerary, you might be driving for a maximum of three hours a day. But there are many places to rest and take a breather along the way.

Photo credit: @balloonaloftcanberra via Instagram

Canberra is Australia’s capital, but not many travellers get to know the place! Rent a car and explore the city, teeming with friendly locals and cultural gems.

If you’re big on views, sign up for a fancy hot air balloon ride over the city. If not, tour around the impressive Australian Parliament House or the scenic National Arboretum .

Photo credit: @avenuehotelcbr via Instagram

After ticking off the city’s attractions, drive out to the peaceful countryside. There’s an abundance of fresh, farm-to-plate produce to savour, so bring your biggest appetite! During truffle season (Jun–Aug), many truffle farms offer hunting experiences, where you get to team up with a cute truffle dog that’ll sniff for this superb delicacy.

Other places to check out include traditional cider from Sully’s at the Old Cheese Factory , and Tilba Real Dairy for some rich, premium cheeses.

Get some peace and quiet with some overnight glamping! There are many sites to choose from in the South Coast, but the one that holds a special place in our hearts is Tilba Lake Camp . Located in the middle of a sprawling green pasture, you get a cosy lotus bell tent, a comfy bed and a delicious homemade breakfast.

Further down the coast, dip into the beautiful Bermagui Blue Pool . The good news is the natural rock pool offers some of the best views of the ocean, but be prepared — the waters can be quite chilly!

Once you’ve soaked up enough of the coast, end your road trip in Canberra.

8) Fun-filled Western Australia road trip — Indian Ocean Drive from Perth to Kalbarri

Journey time: 5 days (~1,800km) Starting point: Perth Airport (5hr flight from Singapore)

Few road trips are as vibrant as the Indian Ocean Drive . From Perth to Kalbarri , you’ll get a splash of colour driving past earthy landscapes, pink lakes and rich, red gorges. Arrive between Jul–Oct, and there’s also an explosion of multi-coloured wildflowers.

This route is part of Australia’s Coral Coast , and highlights some of the most exotic things you’ll ever see in the country. It’s also fairly easy for first-timers as there are many rest stops along the way. If you’re a seasoned traveller, don’t overlook this stretch — you might just discover something new!

Photo credit: @szjanko via Instagram

Just two hours from Perth, kickstart your adventure with some rad sandboarding at Lancelin Sand Dunes ! It’s a great winter sport substitute if you’re not a fan of cold or frozen snow. Plus, the fine sand makes a soft landing too!

Like the ruins of an ancient city, the Pinnacles Desert at Nambung National Park is one of Western Australia’s definite must-sees. Each limestone structure stands perfectly unique, eroded by centuries of wind. You can stroll around in the daytime, but we’ve found that this place makes an exceptional stargazing site once night falls.

Hutt Lagoon is a classic case of “you must see it to believe it”. The high salinity is what gives the lake its striking pink hue, which changes with the seasons and time of day. Naturally, it’s an Instagram hotspot — so dress your best and get snapping!

The final stop in the Indian Ocean Drive is Kalbarri National Park . It’s one of the most spectacular parks, with beautiful natural attractions around every corner.

Peek through Nature’s Window at the rocky gorge beyond, or check out the Kalbarri Skywalk . The park’s newest addition hovers more than 100m over the Murchison River, offering panoramic views of the arid landscape below.

If you’re here between Jul–Oct, wander around the Everlasting Wildflower Trail . The space comes alive with a burst of pretty, blooming wildflowers .

Photo credit: @roadtrippersaus via Instagram

Afterwards, follow the road back to Perth on your final day. But, if you have more time, extend your road trip down the Coral Coast .

Read also: 11D Western Australia Itinerary — Coastal Road Trip From Perth To Ningaloo

9) Epic Queensland road trip — Great Beach Drive from Noosa Heads to Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island

Journey time: 4–7 days (~420km) Starting point: Noosa Heads (~1.5hr drive from Brisbane Airport, 8hr flight from Singapore)

Here’s something for the young, wild and free! The Great Beach Drive to Fraser Island is as rugged as Aussie road trips get. In a comfy 4WD, you’ll cruise over 100km of beaches, sandwiched between wild bushland and the dazzling Coral Sea.

As the road trip requires a 4WD for off-road driving, it’s perfect for seasoned travellers. The backseat drivers can handle the road trip playlist and the vehicle access permit 😛

Photo credit: @t.becs via Instagram

Starting from Noosa Heads, take a 5-minute ferry ride from Tewantin or make a 40-minute detour to Noosa North Shore . In this unspoilt paradise, enjoy some beachside activities, or play a game to see who can spot wild kangaroos the fastest.

Photo credit: @manuelo.pro via Instagram

Further up, bask in the endless white sands of Teewah Beach . It’s only accessible via a 4WD so this is where your beachy journey begins! It’s also largely undeveloped — check that you’ve packed enough water and supplies, especially if you’re camping overnight .

Photo credit: @tracks.we.travel via Instagram

Continue on to Rainbow Beach . The lovely coastal town is famous for its coloured sand cliffs, caused by minerals staining the sand over thousands of years. Take a slow stroll and observe the natural swirl of colours ranging from white to ochre and red.

Photo credit: @alexxsadventures via Instagram

Finally, brace yourself for the grand event! From Inskip Point, take a short ferry ride across the ocean to Fraser Island . It’s the world’s largest sand island, and many come to conquer the glorious ‘highway’ that is 75 Mile Beach (that’s ~120km, FYI).

During your drive, swing by the Maheno shipwreck for photos and the Champagne Pools for a natural bubbling ‘jacuzzi’. Be sure to visit Fraser Island’s amazing rainforest too — it’s the only one on this planet that grows on sand!

10) Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route from Sydney to Byron Bay

Journey time: 9–14 days (~1,000km) Starting point: Sydney Airport (~8hr flight from Singapore)

The Legendary Pacific Coast is another iconic route. The drive from Sydney to Byron Bay up to Brisbane is full of quintessential Aussie experiences — bucket-list-worthy adventures, soft, sandy beaches, and countless places to surf.

The route itself is a 10-hour stretch, but it’s pretty manageable if you break the distance down over two weeks. Following this, beginners would drive for a maximum of two hours every day on smooth, sealed roads.

If you’re not keen on exploring the famous Blue Mountains , opt for the quieter Bouddi National Park . Hop on the many scenic tracks , which feature sandstone cliffs, isolated beaches and vibrant native bush.

Photo credit: @sand_dune_adventures via Instagram

Further up north, the adventures begin! Port Stephens is where you’ll find the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving coastal dunes — and there’s no better way to explore this shifting desert than with quad bikes (your first step to a 4WD!).

Read also: 9-Day Australia Road Trip Itinerary Around The Best Of NSW — Sydney, Blue Mountains and Beyond

Warning: Once you’re in Byron Bay , you might find it terribly hard to leave. The sun-kissed seaside town is arguably the best-kept secret in New South Wales , and there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do.

Read also: Byron Bay Guide: 25 Things to Do in NSW’s Ultimate Hipster Paradise

Experiences we 100% recommend include surfing at Main Beach , dining on fresh seafood at Catch-A-Crab , and watching the sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse . Meanwhile, Chris Hemsworth recommends diving at Julian Rocks (no kidding!).

Photo credit: @goldcoast_themeparks via Instagram

If you’re itching for more road trip adventures, drive a little further up to the Gold Coast or Brisbane in Queensland . Take your pick from hair-raising Gold Coast theme parks or the mellow Brisbane Brewing Co .

Read more: 2-Week Australia Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay — Discovering NSW’s Legendary Pacific Coast

Driving tips and planning for an unforgettable road trip in Australia

In a land so vast and wondrous, not exploring Australia on a road trip is a real shame. Even then, whether you decide to stay in the cities or hit the road, this country won’t have any problems curing your wanderlust !

All you need to do is find underrated things to do , or seek out socially-distant natural wonders . Hey, safety is sexy, no?

Speaking of safety, here are some useful driving tips for the long road ahead 👇 (1) Rent a GPS or download offline Google maps. Mobile reception isn’t available in remote places like National Parks. (2) Follow the speed limit — even in rural areas. Take it from us, the fines are hefty. (3) Watch out for wildlife on the roads. Drive at the recommended speeds, so that you can slow down or brake in time if an animal crosses in front of you. (4) Similarly, avoid driving in the dark as animals are more active then. If you do, use your high beam to see further ahead. Drop it when there are cars in the other direction (they’ll do the same too).

Need more ideas to plan your next Australia road trip? Find more guides and detailed maps for self-driving itineraries here !

Featured and Facebook image credit: @tracks.we.travel via Instagram

Which Australia road trip are you keen to go on? Share your plans in the comments!

This post is brought to you by Tourism Australia .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , and Telegram !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com (@thetravelintern) on Jul 29, 2020 at 4:31am PDT

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Australia Road Trip Itinerary for up to 5 Weeks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 13, 2023

Are you looking for the best Australia itinerary ? It’s a tough choice – there are just so many options… Nevertheless, in this post, we try to give you a good starting point on how to best plan your Australia road trip itinerary . Find out!

Good to know: This 5 weeks Australia itinerary is structured in such a way that it includes separate ‘itinerary blocks’ per area (Sydney, Melbourne, Red Center, etc.). So you can just pick the areas that interest you the most and plan your own perfect Australia road trip.

We visited Australia twice. The first time we followed a standard East Coast itinerary from Cairns to Sydney and, to tell you the truth, were quite disappointed. The 5-week Australia road trip itinerary that I share in this article is based on our second road trip in Australia. We planned this trip ourselves, spent many hours perfecting this itinerary and we absolutely loved this trip!

This Australia itinerary covers many highlights that we thought were worth our time the most. After all, when you fly to the other side of the world, you really want to see the best of the best, right?

We spent more than a month in Australia with kids and visited many different regions. Our Australia itinerary started in Sydney and the Blue Mountains , followed by the Red Centre . We then visited Kangaroo Island and the Great Ocean Road . We spent 10 days in Tasmania and ended our Australian road trip in Melbourne .

Below you can find our 5-week Australia road trip itinerary in a nutshell. It includes a day to day planning of our Australian road trip and some practical tips.

Would I change anything to this Australia itinerary? Not much. I would add some extra days here and there, but this itinerary pretty much covers all the highlights in each place. And who has so much vacation time… We could only do this trip because our kids were still young and we weren’t tied to school holidays at that time…

There are a few popular regions of Australia we didn’t cover during this trip – the Great Barrier Reef and the Northern Territories around Darwin, also Western Australia.

We skipped the Great Barrier Reef because we had been there in the past and because our kids were too young to go snorkeling. We left Darwin for another time as well because we visited Australia in November and it’s rainy season in the North. But if you have more time, I definitely recommend adding these two areas to your Australia itinerary as well. Here you can find a suggested trip itinerary for Darwin area .

If you have even more time in your Australia itinerary, Western Australia is also beautiful, especially if you like nature destinations. Just keep in mind that distances are big and so you’ll need at least a few weeks extra if you want to add Perth and Western Australia to your Australian itinerary.

Planning tip: Below you can find our Australia road trip itinerary. To help you plan your trip easier, I split our Australia itinerary into separate blocks per region .

That way you can easily mix and match these ‘blocks’ depending on which areas you want to visit. This will allow you to plan your trip Down Under and create your own perfect Australia itinerary, using our tips and suggestions. Take a look!

Sydney and The Blue Mountains – 4 Days

Probably every Australia itinerary will start or end in Sydney. It’s such a beautiful city and there is so much to see – definitely worth a stop. We don’t spend much time in cities when we travel, but we spent two days in Sydney and loved it. We also visited the nearby Blue Mountains and I think that this stunning area is also a must when visiting Sydney.

Here is what our itinerary in the Sydney area looked like:

• Day 1: Arrival in Sydney. Stay in Sydney for 2 nights (we recommend InterContinental Sydney ).
• Day 2: One day in Sydney . With a family, check out these top attractions and/or Taronga Zoo .
• Day 3: Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Blue Mountains. Stay in Leura for 1 night (or you can simply book a day tour from Sydney).
• Day 4: Blue Mountains. Sleep near Sydney Airport for 1 night (we stayed at Novotel Sydney International Airport ).

TIP: You can either rent a car for the last two days or spend more time in Sydney, stay in the city, and book a day trip to the Blue Mountains . If you travel without kids, I think it’s a much better option to just stay in Sydney. Unless you want to spend more time exploring the Blue Mountains, of course. In that case, you may want to stay there for a few more days.

Australia’s Red Center – 6 Days

If there is one part I would include in every Australia itinerary, it’s the Red Center. It’s just so typically Australian and so unique that you really shouldn’t miss it. The trip between Alice Springs and Ayers Rock including West MacDonnell Ranges and Kings Canyon is probably one of the most special trips we ever did, not just in Australia.

Below is a short version of our daily schedule. Here you can find our detailed 6- day itinerary for Australia’s Red Centre, from Alice Springs to Uluru.

• Day 5: Flight Sydney – Alice Springs. Stay in Alice Springs for 1 night.
• Day 6: Alice Springs – West MacDonnell Ranges – Glen Helen. Stay in Glen Helen for 1 night.
• Day 7: Glen Helen – Kings Canyon. Stay in Kings Canyon for 1 night.
• Day 8: Kings Canyon – Uluru (Ayers Rock). Stay in Ayers Rock Resort (Yulara) for 2 nights.
• Day 9: Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park.
• Day 10: Uluru – Kata Tjuta NP and drive back to Alice Springs. Stay in Alice Springs for 1 night.

TIP: You will need a 4WD for this itinerary. It’s possible to do this trip driving only on paved roads as well, but in that case, you will need to cover the distance of almost 700 km between Glen Helen and Kings Canyon on the paved road (instead of 250km via the Mereenie Loop).

If you decide to do that, then take your time to explore the gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges a bit more and spend a night in Alice Springs again, before continuing to Kings Canyon. If you are only planning to drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, you can do it in a regular car. We always use the RentalCars website to find the best deals for car hire.

READ MORE: Red Centre Itinerary – from Alice Springs to Uluru

Adelaide and Kangaroo Island – 5 Days

I am so glad we included Kangaroo Island in our Australia road trip itinerary. It became one of our favorite places Down Under and one I’d like to return to again.

Here is an overview of our Kangaroo Island itinerary:

• Day 11: Flight from Alice Springs to Adelaide. Stay in Adelaide for 1 night.
• Day 12: Adelaide to Kangaroo Island. Stay on Kangaroo Island for 4 nights.
• Days 13 – 15: Kangaroo Island.

Good to know: You will need to rent a car in Adelaide and take a ferry to Kangaroo Island . We rented a car from Adelaide and dropped it off in Melbourne. After visiting Kangaroo Island, we continued our Australian road trip via the Grampians National Park and the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne (see further).

READ MORE: Kangaroo Island Itinerary

Kangaroo Island to Melbourne via the Grampians NP and the Great Ocean Road – 7 Days

This part of our Australia itinerary required a bit more driving, but the two main highlights – Grampians National Park and the Great Ocean Road were more than worth it. Here is how our road trip itinerary between Adelaide and Melbourne looked like:

• Day 16: Kangaroo Island to Robe. Stay in Robe for 1 night. There isn’t much to see in Robe, but you need to break the long drive somewhere in the area.
• Day 17: Robe to the Grampians National Park. Stay in Halls Gap for 2 nights.
• Day 18: The Grampians National Park.
• Day 19: The Grampians to Warrnambool. Stay in Warrnambool for 1 night.
• Day 20: Warrnambool to Lorne (Great Ocean Road). Stay in Lorne for 2 nights.
• Day 21: The Great Ocean Road. TIP: try to spot some wild koalas at the Kennett River first thing in the morning.
• Day 22: Lorne to Melbourne Airport and flight to Tasmania. Stay in Hobart for 1 night.

As you can see, we skipped the city of Melbourne at this point and flew straight to Tasmania. This is because we came back to Melbourne at the end of our Australia trip for the flight back to Europe (see further).

LEARN MORE: Best Stops on the Great Ocean Road

Tasmania – 10 Days

While not many people include Tasmania in their Australia trip itinerary, it’s really worth a trip if you have at least a week to spare. It’s probably worth it for just a few days as well, but it really depends on how much time you have. Below you can see what our itinerary in Tasmania looked like.

TIP: You will need to rent a car in Hobart for this Tasmania trip.

READ MORE: What to See and Do in Hobart

• Day 23: Hobart to Freycinet NP. Stay in Coles Bay near Freycinet NP for 2 nights.
• Day 24: Freycinet National Park.
• Day 25: Freycinet NP to Scamander or Saint Helens. We stayed in Scamander and this is one thing I would have changed in our itinerary. I suggest to drive further till St Helens and stay there instead. Visit the Bay of Fires. Stay in St. Helens for 1 night.
• Day 26: Saint Helens to Launceston. Stay in Launceston for 1 night.
• Day 27: Launceston to Cradle Mountain NP. Stay in Cradle Mountain for 2 nights.
• Day 28: Cradle Mountain National Park.
• Day 29: Cradle Mountain to Strahan. Stay in Strahan for 2 nights.
• Day 30: Strahan.
• Day 31: Strahan to Hobart. Stay in Hobart for 1 night.
• Day 32: Flight from Hobart to Melbourne. Stay in Melbourne .

Melbourne – 2 Days

• Days 33-35: Melbourne and flight back to Europe.

If you like visiting cities, you can easily spend several days in Melbourne. We spent here one full day and half a day before heading back home.

READ MORE: One Day in Melbourne

If you are looking for more things to do near Melbourne, you could also visit the nearby Philip Island . It’s a great place to see penguins in Australia.

So this is our 5 week Australia itinerary in a nutshell.

As you can see, I link to some more detailed itineraries per region here and there, so you can find more information in the related posts. I never found the time to write about all the places we visited, so feel free to leave a comment if you have any specific questions about the areas that we visited, but which are not covered on the blog.

READ ALSO: Tips for Planning a Trip to Australia

In our previous posts, you can also find tips and information for visiting Australia with kids .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Melanie Nelson

Wednesday 3rd of April 2024

I love your site..my son and I are looking forward to our trip to Australia and beyond. We intend 4-5 weeks in country. We are flying into Melbourne, being picked up by friends who live in Gippsland. They are giving us one of their cars. We are thinking of the southern part including Great Ocean rode, Adelaide and Tasmania. Hopefully to take in Kangaroo Island. You suggest booking tours and hotels. Are there any suggestions for us. We will fly out of Sydney, spending a couple of days there. Plus visiting Taranga Zoo.

Thank you for all your suggestions. I signed up for your newsletter Melanie

Thursday 4th of April 2024

Hi Melanie, we are travelling at the moment so unfortunately I really have no time for personalised suggestions. If you haven’t done yet, please take a look at our articles about Kangaroo Island, Great Ocean Road, and Sydney for some more detailed suggestions. Have a great trip!

Saturday 28th of October 2023

Hello, Your 5 week itinerary looks very interesting. Can you tell when you did it. In what year and what period of that year? Thank you for your answer.

Friday 3rd of November 2023

Hi Peter, we did this trip in November.

Wednesday 18th of October 2023

Hi, is this a brochure that I can order. I love the sound of this trip. We would like to follow in your footsteps. We are going for 3 months. So may take more time, but, in the same places!

Thursday 19th of October 2023

Hi Maureen, this itinerary is based on our personal experience and highlights some of the best places to visit in Australia, with suggestions on how to plan your time in each area. We do not organize trips and therefore don't have brochures, but you can find some additional articles linked from this one where we share more info about different areas. And yes, you can easily spend a lot more time in each of these places - there's a lot to see everywhere. With three months in Australia, you may also want to add some time at the Great Barrier Reef, Darwin, and Perth areas.

Sunday 16th of July 2023

I love all of your posts. I took your suggestions for Switzerland and Dolomites hiking. It was perfect trips for us. We will visit Australia if Feb. 2024. We only have 5 nights in Tasmania. Where do you think we stay for 5 nights? I love landscaping view, hiking, sunrise/sunset view and taking pictures. For sure we need to stay one night at Hobart for flight out. Thank you!

Tuesday 18th of July 2023

@Jurga, thank you for your quick reply. I will scribble your newsletter and keep up your travel blogs.

Hi Fei, of all the places we visited in Tasmania, I think that Hobart, Freycinet National Park, and Cradle Mountain National Park were the most impressive. Take a look at our Hobart guide for more ideas for the city and surroundings - you could easily fill a few days in that area. Hope this helps.

Thursday 20th of October 2022

Hi Jurga! I'm going to Australia for a month beginning of November and wondering if I should reserve everything in advance. So far I only have my plane tickets and I'm planning to book my accommodation as well but I'd like to be more spontaneous regarding excursions and tours. I'm planning to do a cruise in the Whitsundays Islands, a tour of the Red Center (3-4 days) and some day trips (diving for example) departing from cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns). Do you think that's doable or there's a big chance everything will be fully booked? Thanks a lot for your input! Marina

Hi Marina, if your itinerary is somewhat set and you have the flights within the country and you are booking your accommodations, then I'd also do some research for the tours. It's not just about availability (day tours should normally be ok last-minute, but for multi-day trips, I'd definitely book in advance), but also about the time that it takes to research it all. It's so much simpler to do this at home where you can quietly compare the best options, read the itineraries, customer reviews, see at what time the tours start/end and plan it all. If you use websites like GetYourGuide (which we now use for all our tour bookings), usually, most tours offer free cancelation/date change until 24 hours in advance, so you can always adjust as needed. Also, a lot has changed in recent years and so many tours/tickets do indeed sell out. I'm not sure about Australia, but we just came back from Paris, and some tours I wanted to book were already not available 3-4 weeks before our trip. I don't expect this to be a problem for most day tours in rural Australia, but - as already said - I would definitely book the multi-day trips upfront. It's so much simpler to plan the rest of your itinerary that way. Hope this helps. Have a wonderful trip!

Alice Springs to Uluru Road Trip: The Ultimate Red Centre Way Itinerary

Here’s everything you need to know to plan a one-week Alice Springs to Uluru road trip – with options for 2WD or 4WD.

Central Australia is, as its name suggests, the heart of this country, both geographically and spiritually. Home to one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, Uluru, it’s also where you’ll find plenty of adventure, nature and culture.

The stunning, often barren landscapes capture the imagination, and at night the inky black sky reveals a thick sprinkling of stars not seen in cities.

I’m sharing a one-week Alice Springs to Uluru road trip that follows the iconic Red Centre Way through Central Australia.

Having just done this Northern Territory road trip, I can guarantee you’ll get a dose of great beauty, plenty of hikes and some time relaxing in nature. This itinerary hits the highlights of this region but – fair warning – will leave you itching for more. 

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

When to do the Red Centre Way

The time of year will have a huge impact on your visit to the Red Centre Way. While you can visit at any time of year, the winter months (between May and October) are milder and more pleasant. Days are usually sunny but remember to pack plenty of layers for the freezing desert nights. (See my full guide to what to pack for Uluru for tips!)

We visited in July and had sunny days ranging from 14 degrees to 27 degrees, but nights that got down to a brisk 3 degrees. It was perfect – but this is the busiest time of year, so book accommodation and activities well in advance.

Summer months bring high temperatures (up to 45 degrees) and lots of flies in Red Centre Australia. You’re not going to be able to do a lot during the hot parts of the day. It’s also the wet season, and storms can wash out roads.

How to get from Alice Springs to Uluru

One of the questions many people ask is whether you need a 4WD to do the Red Centre Way from Alice Springs to Uluru.

While it’s certainly going to give you more flexibility and allow you to get off the beaten path and, in this itinerary, will save some driving time and doubling back, it’s entirely possible to drive around Central Australia in a 2WD. The major roads are paved and are in pretty decent condition.

In fact, we had a 2WD campervan for our Central Australia road trip and we were able to do plenty.

In this Red Centre Way road trip itinerary, I’ll give you two options: one for 2WD and another for a 4WD itinerary.

If you’re planning to stay in hotels between Alice Springs to Uluru, you can rent a regular car through DiscoverCars , which will show you a variety of rental companies so you can compare prices and vehicles.

We rented our campervan – a Toyota Hiace 2-berth Highball – from Mighty Campers through Motorhome Republic . 

We loved having our campervan and the freedom it provided: we could cook breakfast in the Uluru sunrise viewing car park after everyone had left and nap in the car park after a big hike.

Our campervan was fully stocked with bedding, towels and more kitchen equipment than we needed. The Mighty Campers team was really friendly and responsive (including quickly answering my million questions via the online chat!). I’d highly recommend renting through them for this Uluru self drive itinerary.

There are also larger motorhomes that can sleep up to six adults, as well as 4WD campers and vehicles with rooftop tents .

Just remember, you don’t need a 4WD to drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, unless you’re planning to go offroad and take the 4WD Red Centre Way itinerary I outline below. 

Whichever company or car type you go with, make sure you book well in advance during the winter months to avoid disappointment!

Also, I recommend reading the fine print to know exactly where you can and can’t drive, and if you’re allowed to drive the vehicle after dusk.

Alice Springs to Uluru itinerary

Alright, let’s get on the road and discover this bucket list part of Australia ! I’ve suggested a week for this trip – but you could easily spend two weeks or more.

You could also add this itinerary to an Adelaide to Darwin road trip if you’re making that longer drive!

Option 1: 2WD

Starting in Alice Springs, pick up your wheels.

Depending on what time your flight lands and when you’re able to hit the road, you could head straight to Uluru or you might need to stay the night along the way. Alice Springs to Uluru is a big drive, so plan accordingly so you’re not driving at night.

• Day 1: Alice Springs – Uluru: 470km/5 hours (alternative is to stop for the night at the Erldunda Roadhouse : 200km/2.25 hours)
• Days 2-3: Explore Uluru
• Day 4: Uluru – Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon: 330km/3.5 hours
• Day 5: Explore Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon
• Day 6: Watarrka National Park – Alice Springs: 475km/5 hours
• Day 7: Day trip to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges (Ormiston Gorge): 135km/1.5 hours (plus return travel to Alice Springs)

Option 2: 4WD

With a 4WD, you’ll be able to take the Red Centre Way (formerly called the Mereenie Loop), which will save you time and avoid doubling back between Kings Canyon and Alice Springs.

You will need a permit (at a cost of $5) to drive the Mereenie Loop Road section, as it passes through Aboriginal land. Information about where to buy a permit can be found online here .

The Red Centre Way itinerary looks like this:

• Day 1: Alice Springs – Uluru: 470km/5 hours
• Day 6: Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon – Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges (Glen Helen Gorge): 226km/2.5 hours
• Day 7: Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges – Alice Springs: 133km/1.5 hours

This Red Centre Way Map shows this route.

What to do in Central Australia

Now that you have an idea of how you should plan your Central Australia itinerary, I’ll give you some ideas for how long you should stay in each location and what to see and do there.

Stop 1: Alice Springs

To make the most of this central Australia road trip itinerary, I recommend getting on the road from Alice Springs straight away. You’ll come back to Alice Springs at the end of the trip.

However, this is the best place to stock up on food and water, so make sure you do your shopping before you leave the city – it’ll save you a lot of money and provide more variety.

You can head straight to Uluru or stop the night to break up the trip. I recommend the Erldunda Roadhouse which has decent-sized pull-through sites (powered and unpowered) as well as motel rooms. It also has a tavern with really good pub food and a convenience store that sells decent coffee to get you caffeinated for the next day’s drive.

On the Alice Springs to Uluru drive you’ll spot Atila/Mt Conner – also called Fooluru because it looks remarkably like Uluru! Its flat top distinguishes it from Uluru.

Stop 2: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

One of the highlights of this trip, UNESCO World Heritage Listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park deserves at least two nights of your itinerary. 

One of the most recognisable natural attractions in the world, Uluru is remarkable, towering 348 metres above the Earth’s surface. What’s fascinating is that there’s more than 2.5 kilometres of Uluru actually beneath the surface! This stunning monolith changes colour throughout the day, and you’ll never forget your first time seeing Uluru.

Uluru has been home to Aboriginal people for thousands of years – there’s evidence dating back some 30,000 years – and the Anangu people are recognised as the traditional owners. Uluru is a sacred site for the Anangu and you will see signs showing where you can’t take photos to avoid revealing special sites.

While Uluru gets a lot of the attention, nearby Kata Tjuta is just as spectacular. In fact, many people we met on our trip said that Kata Tjuta was actually their favourite site.

I’m still in two minds – both sites are jaw-droppingly magical and I really couldn’t choose a favourite. Which is why you should visit both – they’re the most beautiful things to see in the Northern Territory . 

To visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, you need to purchase a park pass. These can also be purchased at the gate, but if you’re travelling during peak seasons, I recommend buying it online in advance .

The passes are valid for three days. You do need to specify your dates when you buy online, although you can change dates if needed (but only once). Passes cost $38 for adults and are free for children 17 and under.

There’s so much to do at Kata-Tjuta National Park, making it very easy to fill your days. The top five things for your Uluru itinerary that I’d recommend are:

1. Walk or bike around the base of Uluru

The Uluru Base Walk is a great way to see Uluru up close from all angles. Start the walk from the Mala carpark and take the loop clockwise.

The walk is a 10.6km loop, which will take you around 3.5 hours. There’s interpretive signage at various points to explain interesting and important aspects of Anangu culture and life. Do be mindful of the signage showing where you can and can’t take photos.

It’s a flat walk all the way around but be warned that there’s not a lot of shade, so slather on sunscreen and make sure you have a good hat to keep you protected.

If the idea of the walk doesn’t appeal, you can rent bikes from Outback Cycling . Look for them at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre. Bike rental costs $70 for ages 11 and up.

2. Enjoy dinner under the stars 

City dwellers will be amazed by the clarity of brightness of the stars out this way, and one of the best ways to see them is to dine under the stars. 

Ayers Rock Resort has two dining experiences: Tali Wiru and Sounds of Silence . Both aren’t cheap but they are incredible experiences. 

We splashed out for the Tali Wiru dinner and were driven to a private deck with a view of Uluru. Dinner started with champagne, canapés and a yidaki (didgeridoo) performance, followed by a four-course menu featuring delicious takes on native ingredients paired with Australian wines.

The night ended with an astronomy lesson and hot chocolate and cognac around the campfire. Yes, it was expensive, but so worth it.

3. See Uluru at sunrise and sunset 

Throughout the day, Uluru changes colour, and sunrise and sunset bring the richest, deepest reds and ochres.

There are a couple of places to watch the sunrise. The Talinguru Nyakunytjaku sunrise viewing area has several shelters, viewing platforms and some walking tracks so you can stand with the crowds or find a quieter spot to marvel at the sunrise. 

For sunset, head to the clearly marked Car Sunset Viewing area to see (and capture on camera) the rich reds of Uluru as the sun sinks down over the horizon.

If you’d like to see the sunrise or sunset with fewer people, then head to the opposite viewing platform, where you’re likely to have the viewing area all to yourself. So at sunrise, go to the sunset viewing platform and vice versa for sunset. 

4. Head out to Kata Tjuta 

Kata Tjuta (previously known as The Olgas) is Uluru’s somewhat lesser-known brother, but equally as mind-blowing. They’re both located in the same national park, so it’s easy to spend a day at one and a day at the other, if you have the time on your Uluru road trip.

Kata Tjuta is a series of 36 domes pushing their way out of the flat surrounding land. The tallest dome rises almost 550 metres high and, just like when approaching Uluru, it’s incredible to see this natural beauty towering before your eyes. Kata Tjuta means “many heads” in Pitjantjatjara language, and it’s easy to understand where this name comes from.

There are two fantastic hikes here: the Valley of the Winds and the Walpa Gorge walk. Kata Tjuta is a place of great significance to the Anangu, so make sure you stick to the trails and follow any guidance. 

The Valley of the Winds hike is a 7.4km loop that will take you anywhere between two to four hours. There are shorter in and out sections if you don’t have the time or energy to do the whole hike. The hike is closed if the weather hits 36 degrees.

The first part is really rocky and there are some steep parts and rock scrambling up flat boulders. My favourite part of this hike is the Karingana Lookout, where you can gaze out between the boulders. Even with other people there, it feels incredibly tranquil.

The Walpa Gorge walk is a relatively flat, 3km track that leads into the domes, ending with a viewing platform that overlooks a lush green space.

Given the cultural sensitivity of the area, be mindful of how you photograph Kata Tjuta. Anangu ask that you don’t take any photos or video of Kata Tjuta throughout the Valley of the Winds walk, and that you keep both sides of Walpa Gorge in frame when you photograph it. 

Kata Tjuta is also a spectacular place for sunrise and sunset, when the domes are drenched in blood-red shadows.

5. Wander through the Field of Light

Bruce Munro’s spectacular light installation was only supposed to be at Uluru for a short while but has now been extended – indefinitely.  

The art installation features 50,000 light stems in various shades of red, purple, blue, green and white, laid out over a huge area with Uluru looming above. 

There are a few different ways to see the Field of Light on your Uluru trip. Passes start from $48 for adults, but you can upgrade the experience to a Star Pass (with canapés and beverages) or a dinner under the stars.

Check out more things to do at Uluru in my other blog post about this spectacular wonder.

• Where to stay at Uluru

We stayed at Ayers Rock Campground , which is well-equipped with showers, washing machines and drinking water. Plus you have access to all the other facilities on offer at Ayers Rock Resort (IGA, petrol station, cafés and restaurants). Sites here book out months in advance so book ahead!

If you can’t get a spot here, Curtin Springs Station is the next nearest option (100km away from the park).

There’s no camping allowed elsewhere in the park, so these are your only two options.

Ayers Rock Resort also has several hotels, including (in order of affordability): the Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge , The Lost Camel Hotel , Emu Walk Apartments , Desert Gardens Hotel and Sails in the Desert . If you really want to splash out, Longitude 131° is the ultimate in luxury. You can read my full guide to where to stay near Uluru for more info.

Stop 3: Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon

Watarrka National Park – specifically Kings Canyon – turned out to be my favourite part of this trip. Two nights is the minimum amount of time you should plan to stay here.

The Luritja people are the traditional owners of Watarrka National Park.

My absolute favourite hike of the trip was the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. This 6.4km loop is classed as moderate, and has magnificent views across the canyon rim. The first part of the hike is tough , involving hundreds of steep steps. Take a breather every now and then and spin around to enjoy the views before you trudge on up the steps. 

Once you get through those steps, the rest of the hike is fairly moderate. You’ll pass orange sandstone domes, through the lush Garden of Eden, into a shady pool surrounded by towering walls and around the weathered “Lost City” beehive domes.

We saw several families with young kids as well as older people, so it really is a hike for all ages.

If you want to see Kings Canyon from above, you can also book a 15-minute helicopter ride .

There are other shorter walks that depart from the same carpark, including the Kings Creek Walk (2km return, 1 hour) and South Wall Walk (4.8km return, 2 hours – this is actually a section of the Kings Canyon Rim Walk). If you’ve got a lot more time, tackle the 22km Giles Track, which will take you 1-2 days one way!

Another short walk nearby is the Kathleen Springs Walk, a flat 2.5km return trip. There’s a lot of interesting information along the way, including about local Aboriginal culture and the colonial cattle industry. It ends at a shady spring-fed pool which is lovely to sit by if you have it to yourself.

Once you’ve done with hiking, learn about local Aboriginal culture at Karrke. The one-hour Aboriginal Cultural Tour is an immersive lesson in bush tucker, natural medicine and traditional art. Tours are just a 30-minute drive from Kings Canyon Resort, and you can book online here .

Where to stay at Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon

You have a couple of options for resting your head in this area.

We stayed at Kings Canyon Resort and loved it. The powered van sites were generous in size and most are fairly shaded. There’s a deck (the Luritja Lookout) that’s perfect for watching the sunrise over Kings Canyon. Most nights there’s live music there as well as the cutest little caravan serving up drinks (cash only).

Kings Canyon Resort also has rooms and glamping tents.

Kings Canyon Resort has a service station with a convenience store – but be warned that it’s really expensive and meat/fruit/veggies variety is limited.

Kings Creek Station is about a 25-minute drive from the Kings Canyon car park. This working cattle and camel station has camping, glamping and rooms available.

It also has a great café onsite – where I tried their famous camel burger! (Spoiler: it tastes just like beef.) | Book Kings Creek Station online here

Stop 4: Alice Springs

If you’re doing the 2WD version of this Red Centre Way itinerary, the trip ends back in Alice Springs (with a day trip to the West MacDonnell Ranges).

If you’re doing the 4WD itinerary from Alice Springs to Uluru, then skip ahead to the next stop, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges.

Alice Springs doesn’t have the best reputation thanks to some not-entirely-accurate media coverage. But I really like this little town, and you can easily fill a day or two. Here are some of the best things to do in Alice Springs :

• Learn more about desert wildlife at the Alice Springs Desert Park , where you can get up close with reptiles, mammals and birds
• Wander the gorgeous Olive Pink Botanic Garden and learn about native plants and trees
• Watch the sunset from Anzac Hill/Untyeyetwelye
• Drive to the Tropic of Capricorn marker
• Visit the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve to learn about the first telegraph stations set up in the Australian desert
• Check out Aboriginal art at the Araluen Arts Centre and Papunya Tula

Where to stay in Alice Springs

We’ve stayed at both the  Alice Springs Tourist Park  (quiet, opposite the Araluen Cultural Precinct) and the  Alice Springs Discovery Park  (lots of facilities, food trucks, pancake Sundays, movie nights). I’d recommend either for camping, caravan park sites or cabins.

If you’d prefer a hotel, check out Lasseters Hotel and Casino (recognisable from the movie Priscilla: Queen of the Desert ) or DoubleTree by Hilton .

Stop 5: Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

The final stop is heading out west from Alice Springs for a day trip to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges. (If you’re doing the 4WD itinerary, this will be your previous day’s drive).

You can drive out to Ormiston Gorge and then make your way back to town via Ellery Creek Big Hole and Standley Chasm. There were several stops we didn’t have time for, but if you plan a big day (and have a 4WD for some of them) you can do it.

Ormiston Gorge is accessible by sealed road and is a great camping spot if you’re doing this Central Australia road trip via the 4WD option. There are several hikes here around the gorge. We did the Ghost Gum Walk (2.5km loop) which took us above and down into the gorge. The walk required a bit of rock scrambling!

Ellery Creek Big Hole is another water-filled gorge that’s easily accessible via a short walk from the carpark. The drive in is fine for 2WDs but it is a bit bumpy so expect to rattle around a bit! It’s a great swimming hole, but was a little too chilly for us when we visited.

Angkerle Atwatye (Standley Chasm) is amazing to wander through; you will truly feel small and get some understanding of just how long this country has been forming.

The walk to the chasm is easy, on a flat surface and should take around 15 minutes each way. Midday is the best time to visit to capture the sun glowing on the rock face.

There is an entry fee ($12 for adults) and a great café and souvenir shop. This is one of the stops along the famous Larapinta Trail and I can just imagine hungry hikers would enjoy tucking into a burger here!

Once you’ve spent the day exploring the stunning West Macs, head back to Alice Springs for your flight out.

Don’t want this journey to end? Why not head south to discover the best things to do in Coober Pedy, South Australia or continue north driving on to Darwin !

What to take on a Red Centre Way road trip

Here are a few things you must pack for your Red Centre Way trip, and I also have a full guide to what to pack for Uluru :

• Good hiking boots/sneakers that can withstand sharp rocks | I have these Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots
• Plenty of water (buy the boxed “goon bags” of water from the supermarket) and a refillable water bottle | This is a great collapsible water bottle
• Breathable clothes that are easy to wash and dry. Avoid white clothing as the red dust gets everywhere!
• Plenty of sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses
• Layers or thermals for the chilly nights | I like Uniqlo’s HeatTech range
• Bathers for a swim in one of the gorges or resort swimming pools
• A fly net – they look silly but will keep the flies out of your eyes and mouth! You can buy these in most service stations and roadhouse convenience stores in Central Australia for about $10 | Buy fly net here
• Lip balm and moisturiser to combat the dry air
• Road atlas – while it’s hard to get lost out here on the main roads, a road atlas like this one from Hema Maps is handy to have!
• Camera to capture every single amazing moment of your trip

Alice Springs to Uluru road trip travel tips

Driving in Central Australia and around the Red Centre Way – especially on the paved roads – is generally pretty easy but there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Avoid driving at dusk/night in the Red Centre. Camels, kangaroos, cattle and dingoes roam the roads when darkness descends.
• Obey the road rules. In some parts of the Northern Territory the speed limit is 130 kilometres an hour, so it can be easy to speed! But there are plenty of traffic police and surveillance so stay within the limit.
• Get fuel whenever you can. Even if you’ve only used a quarter of a tank and you’re approaching a servo, stop and fill up. While there are plenty of service stations along this popular route, not all of them are stocked all the time. We saw a couple of servos that were out of diesel when we were there (and thus a lot of frustrated/anxious drivers!).
• Drive slower (around 90km/hr) to conserve fuel – this was a tip from someone else driving a similar van to ours. With fuel at almost $2.70 a litre when we visited, it was good advice!
• Book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons like school holidays. Ayers Rock Resort in particular books out months in advance at times. 
• Similarly, book Uluru activities like the Field of Light and dinners well in advance. We met many disappointed people who had left their bookings too late.
• Buy food in Alice Springs if you can. Stocking up at the campgrounds can get expensive and there’s often limited variety in terms of fruits, vegetables and meat.
• Be aware of alcohol restrictions in parts of the Northern Territory. You can only buy takeaway alcohol during certain hours. Some communities are completely dry and you cannot take alcohol through.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Are you now dreaming about an Alice Springs to Uluru road trip? Leave a comment if you have any questions about planning your trip.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Australia travel articles:

• The best things to do in Alice Springs
• Unmissable things to do at Uluru
• The ultimate Uluru packing list
• What to do in Katherine
• The best things to do in Darwin
• How to spend a few days in Litchfield National Park
• The ultimate guide to Kakadu National Park

AUSTRALIA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book your flight to Australia online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in Australia. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Australia on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Australia will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
• Pack sunscreen (look for SPF50 or higher), a hat and sunglasses because the sun is hot!

ALICE SPRINGS TO ULURU ROAD TRIP: PIN IT FOR LATER

Save this Alice Springs to Uluru road trip itinerary so you can plan your Red Centre Way itinerary later.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

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Inspire Your Trip

The Ultimate West Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary (1-3 Weeks)

You contrary thing, you. For many roadtrippers with their own wheels, West Coast = Best Coast.

The diversity of experiences available, rare wildlife spotting opportunities and emptiness of landscapes (hellooooo, perfect Instagram shot!) makes for a magical off the beaten path experience.

How much time you have really depends on how many places you can see, we have put together two itineraries, for 7 or 21 days but both can be adapted to fit any time frames.

We’d recommend you allow a little longer for the West Coast than the East coast, due to the sheer distance between some remote places on this itinerary.

Having said that, if you’re pushed for time, you could easily spend a few less days on Shark Bay and Exmouth or opt out of exploring the Kimberleys.

Australia West Coast 1 Week Itinerary

If you’re after a real Aussie adventure with less time, a speedy one-week road trip headed north from Perth cuts the mustard.

First drive to Karrijini National park for iconic red rock gorges, natural waterfalls, tree-climbing and camping under the clearest starry sky (so clear you can legit see the galaxies).

Then swing back to the coast starting with Exmouth and its incredible coral reefs, swimming with whale sharks and sundowners on the sand dunes.

Make your way back to Perth stopping at Coral bay, Monkey Mia, Shelly beach, the pinnacles and back down to Perth.

This is a really quick and rushed itinerary but will allow you to see all the main highlights in a short period of time.

Australia West Coast 3 Week Itinerary

This 21 day itinerary starts in Perth and travels north. The itinerary can be adapted as you go.

Day 1: Starting our itinerary in Perth but before you hit the open road, we recommend you head to Rottnest Island to meet its gorgeous fuzzy residents and also see some of the most pristine beaches in the country.

Day 2: Set off up the West Coast. It’s around a two-hour drive from Perth to Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles. After a day exploring here, bed down in your camper in Cervantes, a cute coastal town nearby.

Day 3: Check out Cervantes’ Thirsty Point for views of the Indian Ocean after brekky, before driving the four and a half hours to Kalbarri, where there are plenty of campsite options.

Day 4: Explore the spectacular Kalbarri National Park!

Day 5: It’s around a four-hour drive to the first of your stops in the beautiful Shark Bay region. First stop, Shell Beach!

Day 6-8: With so many gorgeous beaches and wildlife encounters fit to rival Blue Planet, you’ll want a few days to explore Francois Peron National Park, Monkey Mia’s wild dolphin feeding grounds and Shark Bay’s amply other sandy enclaves at your leisure – they’re all within a short drive of each other.

Day 9: You can drive on to Coral Bay in three hours and pitch up for the night, or choose to rest and have lunch before continuing onto Ningaloo.

Day 10: It’s a short drive from Coral Bay beach to Ningaloo, where you can spend the day diving with whale sharks, snorkelling with turtles or boat tripping out to see humpback whales.

Day 11: Drive time between Ningaloo and Exmouth is under two hours. You’ll want to spend a few days in this heavenly beach bum’s paradise, soaking up more of the Ningaloo reef, and the marine life you missed at your last stop.

Day 13: It’s an eight hour drive from Ningaloo to Karijini National Park, so make sure you’re well rested – camping overnight under a blanket of stars here is a must.

Day 14-15: Rise early to take in Karijini’s landscapes on Day 14. On Day 15, set off on the five hour drive to Port Hedland for an overnight stop. These parts are remote, but there’s plenty of campsites with amenities.

Day 16: Port Hedland to Eighty Mile Beach is a three hour drive. Although the sea full of nasty critters you wouldn’t want to swim with, sunrise, sunset and the endless empty tidal flats here are made for photo opportunities, beers and general zenning out.

Day 17: On to Broome! Abandon your trusty campervan here, mount one of Australia’s million native camels (the Middx East does import them from here, you know) and ride down Cable Beach.

Days 18-20: Optionally tag an off-road adventure in the Kimberley region onto the end of your West Coast roadie. This area needs4WD vehicle, so we recommend a tour.

Day 21 You could decide to continue travelling up the coast to Darwin, or start your journey down back to Perth or other destinations in Australia either by car or flight from Broome.

Australia’s East Coast really does get all the love, but the West Coast will steal your heart. It is generally less touristy than the East, and although it doesn’t have famous sights like the Great Barrier Reef and WhitSunday Islands, you will absolute love travelling in this region.

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Unforgettable road trips on Australia’s East Coast

Sep 24, 2020 • 7 min read

Hop in your car for a truly epic road trip on Australia's East Coast © Photo by Raimund Linke / Getty Images

Australia ’s East Coast offers plenty to get excited about for road-tripping explorers. Along sun-bleached blacktop, you’ll find picture-perfect beaches, hip cities, lush rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef and abundant native wildlife. Driving routes can meet any interest and range from epic long-haul adventures to pinpoint itineraries of must-do experiences. So pack your surfboard, your hiking boots and your appetite and hit the East Coast road.

The Great Barrier Reef Drive – Cairns to Cape Tribulation (1 week)

By embarking on this trip, you’ll journey up the coast in far-north Queensland, passing classic old towns and luxe resort hubs with eye-popping Great Barrier Reef views en route. Starting ebullient Cairns , a snorkelling or dive trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a must. After that, pinball between the city’s botanic gardens, hip restaurants and buzzy bars.

Next up, head inland via gondola cableway or scenic railway to Kuranda for rainforest walks and the storied markets (try some macadamia nuts!). Don’t miss detours to picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls and a rainforest hike in scenic Wooroonooran National Park.

On Cairns’ northern beaches, check yourself into a plush Palm Cove resort, then pull off the road for a photo-op at Rex Lookout above Wangetti Beach further north. Port Douglas in next – an up-tempo holiday hub with fab eateries, bars and further reef-trip diversions.

At Mossman Gorge , lush (and Unesco World Heritage-listed) rainforest enshrouds the photogenic Mossman River: take a guided walk and cool off in a waterhole. At Daintree River, book yourself onto a crocodile-spotting cruise then have lunch in Daintree Village. Cow Bay awaits nearby for a few hours of beachcombing. Last stop is Cape Tribulation , a magnificent collision of rainforest and reef. Spend a few nights at one of the upmarket lodges nooked into the rainforest here.

A tale of two cities – Brisbane to the Gold Coast (7-10 days)

Watch your worries fade away as you trek out of the lovingly big-city Brisbane and out into the chilled-out Gold Coast surf towns and northern New South Wales . Before you leave Brisbane, though, you’ll want a couple days to enjoy Queensland’s river-city capital, a semitropical boomtown dappled with brilliant bars, cafes and bookshops (the pillars of civilised society).

Don’t miss the excellent Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , the Brisbane Powerhouse arts hub, craft-beer bars and live tunes in the West End. Save a night on the tiles in hedonistic Fortitude Valley and make time for a ferry trip out to North Stradbroke Island for surfing, sea kayaking and fish-and-chips on the sand. Back on the mainland, scoot west to the Granite Belt region for cool-climate wineries and some boulder-hopping in Girraween National Park .

An hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast bares its beachy, brassy soul. The epicentre here is celebratory Surfers Paradise , with its brazen sun and after-dark good times. More relaxed and surf-centric are Burleigh Heads and laid-back Coolangatta. Head a quick 50-minute dash south into New South Wales and you’ll find the alt-lifestyle haven of Byron Bay , home to endless beaches, delightful accommodation, delectable food and more. The local charisma is so strong that many wandering nomads stop in Byron Bay only to never leave.

The Great Beach Drive – Sunshine Coast & Fraser Island (10 days)

Maybe your idea of a winning road trip depends on access to high-profile outdoor adventure. If so, you want to take on the aptly named Sunshine Coast in southeast Queensland. Start by meandering through the curious geology of the Glass House Mountains, with their breath-robbing panoramas and outstanding rock-climbing. Nearby is the superb Australia Zoo – brilliant if you have the kids in tow (and even if you don’t).

Next up, sunny Mooloolaba has solid surf and chipper beach vibes and boasts fresh catches of local "Mooloolaba King” prawns. Another half-hour north and you’ll reach Noosa and its lush national park (home to sometimes-spotted koalas), river kayaking and a first-class foodie scene.

A couple of hours north is gorgeous Rainbow Beach , full of surfing, fishing, paragliding, hiking, skydiving, horse-riding and more. From here, explore the huge dunes, beach “highways”, bushwalks and crystalline lakes on the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, the largest sand island on the planet (BYO 4WD, or take a tour).

Looping south, visit historic Maryborough, the birthplace of Mary Poppins author PL Travers; then explore Tin Can Bay, home to an improbable number of sea turtles, dugongs and rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.

Offshore adventure – Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island (10 days)

Road trips and islands don’t make obvious pairing, but Queensland’s offshore offerings are so dense that you can survey a good bit of them in one trip linked with unforgettable coastal coastal drives.

Start in Airlie Beach . Here you can cut loose an unending population of travellers before booking a boat trip out to the glorious Whitsunday Islands archipelago. There are myriad Whitsunday daytrip options, but a multiday sail will let you leave your footprints on remote beaches with no one else on them. Don’t miss Whitsunday Island itself and a memorable swim off sublime Whitehaven Beach, often touted as Australia’s prettiest.

After cruising the islands, book a few nights at a swish offshore resort – Hamilton, Hayman and Daydream islands await. Feeling more adventurous? Sign up for an overnight kayaking trip with island camping.

Next you’ll want to head about three hours north to Townsville . Here, promenade along the waterfront, check out the excellent Reef HQ Aquarium , clamber up Castle Hill and lunch into Townsville’s impressive eating and drinking scene (try the seafood, of course). Experienced divers can book a dive on the famous wreck of the SS Yongala offshore.

Wind up your journey on Magnetic Island , an unpretentious isle with easy-going beach villages, rampant wildlife and scenic bushwalking aplenty.

A little bit of everything – Sydney to Melbourne (1 week)

By now, you’re far from the rugged charms of Queensland, but the coast road between Sydney and Melbourne offers an abundance of national parks, surf beaches, ocean wildlife and disarming small-town vibes.

Sydney is Australia’s biggest and brightest city, offering iconic experiences like the Sydney Opera House , the Sydney Harbour Bridge , harbour ferries to Manly and the bustling Bondi Beach . Just south, though, you’ll find the dramatic cliffs and bushwalks of Royal National Park and the elevated Grand Pacific Drive roadway, arcing out above the ocean for impressive ride.

At Jervis Bay, you’ll find white-sand beaches, cavorting dolphins and national parks. With quick detour inland, you can visit Australia’s capital Canberra to check on proceedings at parliament house and visit the nation’s best museums.

Coastal Narooma has pretty beaches and solid surf. From here, catch a ferry to Montague Island, an important Aboriginal site and an impressive nature reserve. On south-coast NSW, sleepy Eden is famed for whale watching, and don’t miss historic, picture-perfect Central Tilba.

Crossing into Victoria, you can glide through forests, farms and the Gippsland Lakes district to Wilsons Promontory, with its fab bushwalks, camping and beaches. Beyond lies Phillip Island, where penguins, seals and surfers frolic in the brine. Finally, it’s the big smoke – Melbourne.

Southern coastal classic – Melbourne & the Great Ocean Rd (7-10 days)

This classic rite-of-passage road trip tracks south from sophisticated Melbourne along the craggy Great Ocean Road – expect lovely little beach towns, great waves and epic scenery. Melbourne has enough to keep frequent-flyers grounded for months: laneway bars, galleries, live music, shopping, coffee culture, Australian Rules football and more. But an hour south, Great Ocean Road beckons.

Start in the surfing mecca of Torquay and check the swell at legendary Bells Beach , then roll into family-focussed Anglesea for a surf lesson and a riverside picnic. Aireys Inlet is just around the bend: tour the lighthouse then spend the night in urbane little Lorne.

West of here, Great Ocean Road gets wiggly and seriously scenic, winding between the churning sea and the forest-clad Otway Ranges. Unwind in the artsy fishing village of Apollo Bay for a few days (great pub!), then swing by Cape Otway to spy some koalas and the iconic lighthouse.

Next up is Port Campbell National Park and its famed Twelve Apostles rock formation: count them from the clifftops or book yourself onto a scenic flight. Scan for whales off the Warrnambool coast, then continue west to the quaint, rather Irish-feeling Port Fairy . The folk festival here every March sends the wee town into hyperdrive!

You might also like: 

Australia's 10 best road trips   The 7 best road trips from Melbourne Australian road trip: where to find the best Big Things   

This article was first published November 2016 and updated September 2020

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Our Wanders

Our Ultimate Guide To Plan A Road Trip In Australia

Are you planning a road trip in Australia? Are you crafting your most ideal Australia campervan itinerary? Not sure where to start?

No wonder. Australia is a huge and faraway land that’s likely very different from where you live. There’s so much to see (too much, it seems). Your Australia road trip might be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

We’ve been there. We visited Australia on a three week campervan trip for the first time. Since then we moved to Sydney and continue exploring this vast country on road trips and camping trips. We are here to help you plan a road trip in Australia.

This post is your guide to road trip Australia, with lots of first-timer questions clarified, tons of tips and possible itinerary ideas.

Whatever you do, road trip Australia

The very first thing: Australia is one of those countries that are just meant for road trips and campervan trips (more on that debate later). It has cool cities, but it’s the landscapes that impress the most . We had the best wildlife experiences on the road, as well.

But beware, distances are long, so make sure you plan an Australian road trip itinerary that’s not all about being in the car and driving . If you want to see places that are very far from each other, it might be worth flying between them instead of driving.

The most important questions to consider when creating the best Australia road trip itinerary

You won’t see everything within a few weeks (even within a few months). We get it, Australia is a faraway dream destination, and you want to visit all the sights that are on your bucket list.

But Australia is almost as big as the continental USA, distances are long, and some regions are not that ideal to visit in certain seasons. So you need to set priorities, and plan a road trip itinerary that fits you the best and leaves time to actually enjoy the places you end up visiting.

Do you need help planning the best itinerary for your trip? Hire me as your personal travel planner.

Here are some questions to consider:

Which places interest you the most?

Do you want to spend time on beaches? Diving? Hiking? Observing wildlife? Do you want to visit cities? Most visitors typically want a combination of these.

Our opinion is that while Australian cities are attractive, they are no match for the natural beauties and wildlife in Australia . If you like visiting cities on your travels, don’t miss them. If you’re more nature-focused, dedicate a few days to the cities and spend the rest of your time in nature.

Bucket list destinations in Australia

Here are the typical bucket list items for each region – just in case you think your bucket list is too short:

East coast:

• Great Ocean Road
• Blue Mountains
• Royal National Park
• Whitsunday Islands
• Fraser Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree National Park

Western Australia:

• beaches and ocean drive of Esperance
• Rottnest Island
• The Pinnacles
• Ningaloo Reef
• Karijini National Park

Southern Australia:

• Kangaroo Island
• Lake Bumbunga
• Limestone Coast & Blue Lake
• Eyre Peninsula
• Flinders Ranges

Northern Territory:

• Litchfield National Park
• Kakadu National Park
• Kings Canyon Rim Walk

And we missed out Tasmania – which is also Australia, yet a different world and countless more bucket list items.

When are you visiting?

Any time of the year can be good, but for different places.

Sydney and Brisbane are great destinations all year, tropical Queensland and the Northern Territory is best between April and October (Australian summer is the rainy season there, with floods and hurricanes), Victoria and Southern Australia is between October and April (Australian winter months are chilly there).

Western Australia is so large that it has several climates: the southwestern region has temperate climate with four seasons and rainy winters, the northern region is tropical with a wet and a dry season.

Christmas and Easter vacations are very busy, you better avoid them.

How much time do you have?

If you only have a few weeks, we recommend choosing between the east coast (Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland) or Western Australia. Maybe you can add a bit of the Northern Territory or Southern Australia to any of the two routes. Maybe, if you have 3+ weeks.

Car or campervan?

Let me ask the same question in a different way: would you sleep in your car, or do you prefer rooms with four walls? If you’d like to try out the campervan life, you couldn’t find a better place than Australia. That’s what we did, and we liked it very much!

But it’s not for everyone. You have a small living space (though you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors), and you make compromises on comfort.

But an Australia campervan trip is the most flexible and most budget-friendly way to explore this country . It means countless free and paid options to spend the night, and also countless opportunities to see wildlife. Australia is safe, the highways and main roads are good, and it’s usually warm outside, so you don’t need to worry about heating.

However, the word “campervan” can cover a range of vehicles . From small converted mini-vans that are suitable for only two people to large family-sized motorhomes and RVs with full amenities. But all of them have two things in common: they are suitable for sleeping, and they offer some opportunity for cooking. Cooking supplies are often provided if you rent the campervan.

Campervans usually have two separate batteries: one runs the engine, and the other runs things like interior lights or a small refrigerator. So you don’t need to worry about the engine not starting the following day, because you keep the interior lights on for too long.

How to choose the campervan that’s suitable for you?

Let’s pretend you’re in for a campervan trip in Australia. Exciting! But from all kinds of small and big, simple and luxurious campervans, which one is the best for you? Well, only you can decide that, but let us help with the most important questions.

You need to choose the size based on two criteria that are equally important: how many people are you traveling with? And how large of a vehicle are you comfortable driving?

Our car was a converted minivan that was just enough for the two of us and our stuff. But driving it was no different than driving a larger kind of car. We didn’t aim for luxury, but it didn’t cost much more than a regular car rental would have.

Should it be self-contained?

Self-contained vehicles have some sort of toilet onboard. It can make things easier if there’s no running water (or any other kind of toilet) where you camp, but you’re also in charge of dumping your waste. There are dedicated dump points for this purpose.

In our opinion, you don’t really need a self-contained vehicle in Australia. (Unless you stay out there in Nowhere). You find plenty of public toilets, especially along the densely populated east coast, even if there’s no running water (composting toilets). Most of them are nice and clean, and they are all free.

This is a dumb question to ask in Australia, by the way, since all public toilets are free to use, even in the cities. (Coming from Europe, it was not at all obvious to us.)

Should it be 4WD?

It depends. Australia is the country of extremes. But I doubt you need a 4WD for the full length of your road trip in general . Certainly not for a campervan road trip.

The most famous attractions are usually easily accessible, and no 4WD is needed if you stay on the main tourist path . However, if you’d like exploring off the beaten track, well, that’s another story. You can truly get off that beaten path in Australia, and certain mountain roads or desert roads require high clearance 4WD vehicles. Sand islands, like Fraser Island, are also in this category.

But again, in a few weeks, you’ll likely have no time to leave the main tourist route, and the most popular campervan itineraries for Australia don’t require 4WD vehicles.

Check your specific route, and if you’re in doubt, contact the rental company to make sure your car is suitable for what you want to use it for, and it’s allowed to be taken to those roads/regions. Your other option is to sign up for a tour to visit those off-the-beaten-track attractions.

Any extras you need

When choosing the right campervan and the company to rent it from, you better consider whether you need any extras. Like one-way rental, an extra driver, insurance cover, unlimited kilometers, navigation, bedding, towels, camping chairs …

They may or may not be included in the rental by default, and adding them can significantly change the overall price, especially one-way rental at certain companies.

Sample Australian road trips

There are people who drive all around Australia, but most of us don’t have that much time. Whether you plan a regular road trip or a campervan road trip in Australia, here are the most scenic routes you can choose from:

East coast: Cairns to Brisbane (~2 weeks)

One of the most popular routes for a 2 week road trip in Australia. It’s well-developed and fairly busy (by Aussie standards). The best time to do it is between April and October.

Daintree National Park is likely inaccessible in the wet season.

Highlights: Daintree National Park, Great Barrier Reef, Captain Cook Highway, Mission Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Fraser Island, Wooroonooran National Park, Noosa National Park & the Sunshine Coast

East coast: Brisbane to Sydney (3-5 days)

This is a shorter drive with mostly beaches (wonderful beaches!) on the way. It’s ideal for those who dream about a coastal campervan tour in Australia, with lots of fabulous beach stops.

You can combine this route with either the drive from Cairns to Brisbane, or you can drive down to Melbourne, with a stop at Jervis Bay. This area is enjoyable all year.

We actually combined this drive with the one from Cairns, and the one to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road. (It was a long drive.)

Highlights: Byron Bay & the Gold Coast, beach hopping, Sydney, Royal National Park, Blue Mountains

Great Ocean Road: Melbourne to Adelaide (a few days)

The Great Ocean Road is often mentioned among the best scenic drives in the world – and for a good reason. It’s likely included in any campervan itinerary for Australia, and we recommend taking your time and doing some hiking along the way, as well, to see the best of it.

The best time to do it is from October to April.

Read our guide to the Great Ocean Road!

Highlights: Twelve Apostles & Port Campbell National Park, Great Otway National Park & Kennett River Koala Walk

Through the Australian Outback: Adelaide to Darwin (~2 weeks)

This is not a typical first timers’ Australia road trip itinerary, but it runs through some uniquely Aussie landscapes and gives access to the famous Red Center. You can drive it all year, but Australian summers are extremely hot in the desert.

Highlights: Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kakadu National Park

Through the Nullarbor Plain: Adelaide to Perth (~2 weeks)

The Nullarbor is famous for being a long, straight route without a single curve. Adelaide and Perth are two of the lesser-visited cities, but whoever ends up visiting them ends up falling in love.

If you’re road tripping Australia for the first time and only for a few weeks, it’s not the best choice. But if you have more time, it can be combined with another long drive along the western coastline.

This area has four seasons, so it’s best to avoid Australian winters (from June to August).

Highlights: Cape Le Grand National Park, stargazing, cage diving with sharks in Port Lincoln

West coast: Perth to Broome (~2 weeks)

This is a remote and sparsely populated area, with some very special attractions on the coast and inland. It’s a tropical area, and the wet season (between November and March) is best to avoid.

Highlights: Ningaloo Reef, Perth, Karijini National Park, Shark Bay

Where to stay on your Australia road trip

If you prefer a room with a bed, hostels can be the most affordable option, and you find many across Australia. However, the fact that they are the most affordable places with four walls to stay doesn’t mean they’re cheap. Even a simple bunk bed in a shared room costs about 60-80 AUD/night.

Obviously, cities and more densely populated areas offer a larger variety, and you’ll be left with few choices or nothing at all in more remote regions.

Search for hostels here!

Condos or apartments

For those who’d like to have privacy, or their own kitchen to cook, you can find apartments on Booking.com or condos on . They seem to be a luxurious option compared to hostels, but if you travel with a bigger company, the price for a condo might be nearly the same as booking a separate bed for each of you in a hostel .

Campgrounds and holiday parks

However, the Aussie way to travel around is staying in campgrounds, holiday parks or free campsites. Those are your options on your Australia road trip with a campervan.

We were switching between free sites, campgrounds and holiday parks during our road trip, and it’s never a problem to find one nearby. On this note, having a campervan doesn’t mean you can pull over anywhere you fancy, and sleep in your van. This kind of “freedom camping” is not allowed anymore in Australia, at least not in the inhabited areas.

If you choose one of the more remote caravan routes in Australia, free night stays might be easier to find, but you still need water and electricity from time to time.

The average price for the simplest unpowered site for a campervan ranges from 40-70 AUD/night, depending on how fancy the park is, and where it’s located. Holiday parks are usually more expensive than campgrounds, and beloved beach areas, like Byron Bay, are also expensive. So is living in your van really a budget-friendly option? It could easily be, especially if you’re not alone. The campervan is both your car and accommodation, and also, you can spend many nights at free sights.

The advantage of campgrounds and holiday parks are the great amenities and the beautiful location. We often camped on the beach or right behind the beach, we enjoyed large and well-equipped outdoor kitchens, and clean, spacious amenity blocks. Some had coin-operated washing and drying machines, too, so we could wash our clothes. Some had private pools for guests. Sure, they can be pricey, but they actually outshined quite a number of budget hotels and hostels we’ve stayed at during our travels throughout the years.

Free sites for overnight stay with a campervan

Then there is free camping. There are lots of dedicated free sites where you can stay overnight: parking lots, public parks, rest areas, gas stations. Some hotels (mostly backpacker hostels) allow travelers to stay in their backyard overnight.

These sites differ greatly in the offered amenities though. Most of them have public toilets, but definitely not all of them have showers, drinking water, picnic benches, or even running water. Some free sites are located in nice areas, others are parking lots along the highway with no scenery (but constant noise).

We tried a lot of these free sites, and we were very happy with them. We didn’t expect a lot from them either, the point was saving some money.

How to find the free overnight sites?

With WikiCamps. Honestly, we’ve never paid for a mobile app ever before, but the WikiCamps Australia app was well worth that couple of dollars. What does it offer? All the information about the free and paid sites, campgrounds and holiday parks.

Its greatest strength is the insane amount of information about the free options. Because holiday parks have a website, anyway, but who would tell you that there is a rest area 2 kilometers from where you are, it offers toilets and drinking water, and you are allowed to stay there for 48 hours? WikiCamps will.

We could search for places to stay based on our current location. We could filter them based on tons of different criteria: free site or not, and what kind of amenities it offers. People can comment on the sites, as well, and that’s incredibly useful. That’s how we figured out whether the site is clean, crowded or noisy. There are lots of recent comments about sites along the best campervan routes in Australia.

We also found detailed information about showers in the comments. Free sites offer different kinds of showers (or not). Some are free, some are coin-operated. Sometimes you need to pay and ask for the key at the gas station. All this information is available in the comments.

Since a lot of people use this app, we found comments written some days ago about any site we were interested in. It made our trip so much easier! And this was the main reason we didn’t feel disappointed about any of the free sites: we got what we expected.

What to pack for a campervan trip

Of course, you’ll have your luggage full of clothes and stuff for the perfect holiday. But what is that you need for a campervan road trip specifically? We have good news: not much.

The most important things are usually included in the rental (or can be added easily): cooking supplies, bedding and towels. There are some items though that’s not, but they’re incredibly useful:

• Headlamp : better than a flashlight, because your hands are free. We often cooked our meals with our headlamps on when it was dark. Free sights are often not lit well.
• Hand sanitizer : even the smallest vans have their own water tank, but you better use water sparingly if you stay at free sights with no running water.
• Wet wipes : the quickest way to clean anything in the van
• Dishwashing liquid and sponge
• Toilet paper
• Chargers and spare batteries : campervans usually have an extra battery to use for the small fridge, indoor lights or charging whatever you need to charge, but the bottleneck can be the number of charging ports.

4 tips for driving in Australia

Have an offline map

You often have to survive without internet and even cell coverage in Australia. So even if you have a local SIM card with a data plan, download an offline map in advance. Maps could cost you a lot of data, anyway.

Avoid driving during the night, at dusk and down

In addition to the usual risks of driving at night, you have a special reason not to do it in Australia. Those super cute animals, like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats or possums, get active after the sun goes down. You can see many dead kangaroos by the road, and this should be a warning sign. And no, it’s not only risky for the poor kangaroo, but for you, too. Some kangaroos are big enough to cause serious damage to your car in case of a collision.

Don’t attempt “4WD only” drives in a 2WD

It’s unlikely that you need a 4WD car in general, but certain roads require it. Take that seriously.

What else could we say? Enjoy your trip and don’t ever forget to keep left. 🙂

Related articles:

10 Best Central Coast Beaches, NSW, Australia

Coogee To Bondi Walk, The Best Coastal Walk In Sydney

The 21 Most Instagrammable Places In Sydney

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Which are the best lesser-known hikes in North America?

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Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Best Restaurants
• A Nature Guide
• Planning a Trip
• In One Week
• In Two Weeks
• For Families
• Off the Beaten Track
• Inland Odyssey

In One Week in Australia

Impossible! Australia is so vast that in 1 week, you'll only be able to get in a small corner of it -- perhaps one city or a few of the natural wonders. It will be memorable, nevertheless, and careful planning will maximize your time and allow you to see some of the major sights.

Use the following itinerary to make the most out of a week in Australia, but make sure you don't exhaust yourself trying to cram everything in. Australians are a laid-back lot, generally, and in some places the pace is relaxed. And that's just the way to enjoy it. One week provides barely enough time to see the best of Sydney, which for most people is the entry point to Australia. (Luckily, you'll have a spectacular introduction to this great city: You may well get a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from the air as your plane comes in.)

If you have only a week and want to head farther afield, there are two main choices, depending on your interests. The Great Barrier Reef is a "must" for divers, but don't forget that you must allow time either side of your reef trip for flying. There are no such problems with Australia's other icon, Uluru, in the heart of the Red Centre. This triangle, of course, is something of a cliché, but it still gives you a complete Australian experience. Realistically, you will have to choose between the Reef and the Rock, or choose not to scuba dive while you are in Queensland.

Day 1: Arrive in Sydney

Check into your hotel and spend whatever time you have upon arrival recovering from the almost-guaranteed jet lag. If you arrive in the morning and have a full day ahead of you, try to stay up. Hit the nearest cafe for a shot of caffeine to keep you going. Head to Circular Quay, and from there, get a fantastic view of Sydney Harbour Bridge before strolling to the Sydney Opera House and soaking up some history at The Rocks. If you have time, take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly beach and round off a fairly easy day with fish and chips. Then head to bed for some much-needed sleep.

Day 2: Explore Sydney

Start with a ride to the top of the Sydney Tower to experience Sydney’s highest open-air attraction, Skywalk , a breathtaking 260 m (853 ft.) above Sydney. Harnessed onto a moving, glass-floored viewing platform that extends out over the edge of the tower, you can view all of Sydney’s landmarks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and even the Blue Mountains beyond. Don’t worry, it’s not actually as scary as it sounds. For an introduction to Australia’s wildlife, head to Taronga Zoo or the Sydney Aquarium . If you have time to spare, another great choice is Featherdale Wildlife Park , but keep in mind it’s about an hour and a half from the city center. If you enjoy museums, put the Australian Museum , the Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour, and the interactive Powerhouse Museum on your list for the day. For an insight into Sydney’s beginnings as a convict settlement, visit the Hyde Park Barracks Museum , a convict-built prison. Finish off your day with a twilight (or later on weekends) BridgeClimb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Day 3: The Blue Mountains

Take the train from Central Station to Katoomba for a day, exploring the beauty of the Blue Mountains—only 2 hours from Sydney. Once there, jump on the Blue Mountains Explorer bus , which allows you to hop on and off wherever you please. There are also many day-tour operators running to the Blue Mountains from Sydney. Whichever mode of transport you use, don’t miss the spectacular Three Sister rock formations, best viewed from Echo Point Road at Katoomba. Make sure you also spend some time at Scenic World , where you can ride the world’s steepest railway into a valley full of ancient rainforest, and come back up on a cable car—among other adventures that kids especially will enjoy. At the end of the day, head back to Sydney and have dinner somewhere with a view of the harbor.

Day 4: Cairns, Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

Take the earliest flight you can from Sydney to Cairns—flight time is 3 hours—and check into a hotel in the city, which on such a tight schedule will make getting to the major attractions quicker and easier than staying on the out-of-town northern beaches. Explore the city a little and see some wildlife—including a massive saltwater crocodile—in the bizarre setting of the Cairns Wildlife Dome , atop the Hotel Sofitel Reef Casino. You will have the rest of the day to head out to visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park . If you are not going to the Red Centre, this is a great place to learn about Aboriginal culture and life, albeit in a theme-park kind of way. You could spend several hours here, or save the visit for the evening, when Tjapukai by Night tours offer a different look at traditional ceremonies, including dinner and a fire-and-water outdoor show.

Day 5: A Day Trip to the Reef

Day trips to the Great Barrier Reef leave from the Reef Fleet Terminal. The trip to the outer reef takes about 2 hours, and once there, you will spend your day on a pontoon with about 300 people. Experienced divers may prefer to take a day trip with one of several dive charter companies that take smaller groups and visit two or three reefs. The pontoons of the big operators also offer the chance to take a scenic flight—a truly spectacular experience. Divers must spend another 24 hours in Cairns before flying. If you are content to snorkel, ride the glass-bottom boats, and soak up the sun, you will be able to fly the next day. After returning to Cairns, take a stroll along the Esplanade and eat at one of the busy cafes and restaurants that line the strip.

Day 6: Kuranda, a Rainforest Village

Waiting out the day after diving (you can’t fly for 24 hours after you’ve been on a dive) can give you a chance to discover another aspect of Australia—its rainforests. Take a trip to the mountain village of Kuranda aboard the steam train along the Kuranda Scenic Railway , past waterfalls and gorges. In Kuranda, explore the markets and the nature parks and maybe take a Kuranda Riverboat Tour , which runs about 45 minutes. Return on the Skyrail cableway, which carries you over the rainforest (you can get to ground level at a couple of stations on the way) to the edge of Cairns. The views are sensational. This is a big day out!

Day 7: Cairns to Sydney

In the morning, head to the airport for your flight to Sydney. Unless you are lucky enough to have an international flight directly out of Cairns, you will spend most of your last day in Australia returning to Sydney. With the time you have left in Sydney, treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant overlooking the harbor, with its bridge and Opera House illuminated. It’s a sight you’ll carry home with you.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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The Ultimate Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2023

Categories Australia

Are you planning a road trip in Australia but not sure where to start? This Australia East Coast road trip itinerary will help you make the most of your Australia adventures.

In this post, you will find the best spots on the East Coast of Australia, as well as tips for driving in Australia.

This 5 week Australia itinerary starts in Cairns and ends in Melbourne, including the Great Ocean Road. Of course, you can do it the other way around as well. Enjoy planning your Australia road trip!

Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

East Coast Australia itinerary: map

Click here for the interactive map

Australia road trip advice

Below you can read about some important tips and things to know about driving in Australia.

Australia is huge

Let's make something very clear: Australia is big. Huge. Massive. In fact, it's so big it qualifies as a continental landmass instead of just a country.

You can spend anything from three weeks in Australia to several months (or even years!) and not run out of things to see.

We spent 5 weeks driving from Cairns to Melbourne and while we didn't feel rushed, it would have been great to have more time.

There are just so many worthwhile Australian activities and highlights along the way…

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Drive on the left in Australia

First things first: in Australia people drive on the left. For the majority of the people in the world (70%), this is different than what they're used to.

It is for me, in the Netherlands we drive on the right side of the road, so be careful, especially when you're getting back on an empty road.

It can be easy to forget which side of the road you are supposed to be on without oncoming traffic and this happens quite a lot on the quiet roads of Australia.

Have you always dreamed about a Working Holiday in Australia? Check out Global Work & Travel and get a €100 discount with the coupon code PHENOMENALGLOBE .

Watch out for wildlife

We saw so many dead kangaroos and other animals on the side (and on) the road. Be careful and avoid driving in the dark if you can.

You don't want to be involved in an accident as this isn't covered by insurance. What's more, I would be horrified and traumatized if I would ever kill or injure an animal while driving…

The unique wildlife of Australia has been around a lot longer than cars, so be careful and mind the (wildlife) signs.

Be careful in strong wind and heavy rain

There are several high-wind areas on the road from Cairns to Sydney, be very careful in these areas if you have a high-top camper van (or a car with a tent on top).

Also, sometimes it rains. A lot.

We've had a couple of days when suddenly a very heavy rainfall occurred and we could barely see through the windshield even with the wiper blades at maximum speed.

In those cases, we either found a rest area or a pull-out and waited for the worst rain to pass.

Rent a campervan

In my humble opinion, there is no better way to road trip Australia than by campervan!

A camper will provide both transportation as well as accommodation, which allows for maximum freedom and flexibility.

We rented a Kuga campervan from Travellers Autobarn and were very happy with it. In the van, we had a small kitchen with a sink, fridge, 2-pit stove, and even a microwave.

There were two windows on the side of the roof, both covered with mosquito nets, so it was easy to ventilate the van without getting lots of bugs inside. The bed was very comfortable and easy to convert into a seating area.

Most importantly, however, having your own house on wheels means you can go pretty much anywhere you like!

Click here to book your Travellers Autobarn campervan

We used the free  Campermate  app to find free campsites. In the app, you can read comments from people who have recently visited a place and commented on the facilities.

You can also use the Campermate app to find (free) hot showers, drinking water, gas bottle refill points, and much more. Don't forget to download the offline maps to avoid using lots of data!

Alright, let's get to the most important point of this post: the ultimate East Coast Australia road trip itinerary!

5 week Australia road trip itinerary

Week 1: cairns, daintree national park, and townsville, day 1: cairns to mt. molley.

Distance: 120 km

Cairns Esplanade

During this lovely stroll along the ocean, you'll see pelicans and many other birds. Don't forget to bring your bathing suit for a dip in the public pool!

Trinity Beach and Palm Cove

While driving north from Cairns, be sure to stop at Trinity Beach and Palm Cove, two cute little villages with stunning beaches and tropical palm trees.

Captain Cook Highway

The further north from Cairns you get, the more beautiful the road! We pulled over a couple of times to take a snapshot of the amazing views.

Port Douglas

This beautifully situated town is the perfect spot to end your first Australia road trip day.

Visit the Flagstaff Hill Viewpoint and St. Mary’s by the Sea, a lovely little church. If you're lucky to visit around sunset on a clear day you'll see the entire bay in a magic golden glow…

Campsite: Rifle Creek Rest Area

This is a basic campsite with flat spots, both for tents and vans. There is a clean toilet, cold water shower, and rubbish bins. A small donation (2AUD) is requested to maintain the site.

Day 2: Mossman Gorge and Daintree National Park

Distance: 250 km

Mossman Gorge

A 2km walk leads to a beautiful gorge in the lush rainforest. The water is suitable for swimming and the River Track is a great little hike, perfect for an easy morning stroll.

Be sure to pay close attention to the warning signs, sometimes swimming is prohibited due to dangerous conditions (strong currents).

Note: there is also a shuttle bus from Mossman Gorge Centre to the heart of the Gorge. It runs every 15 minutes between 8 am and 6 pm. More information and prices can be found here .

Mount Alexandra Lookout

After a short trip on the Daintree river ferry, you'll arrive in the Daintree rainforest, one of the most impressive National Parks in Australia.

A twisting and turning narrow road leads further and further into the green jungle. Be sure to pull over at Mount Alexandra Lookout and enjoy the beautiful view over the forest and the ocean.

Cape Tribulation Beach and the Kulki Boardwalk

Cape Tribulation Beach is stunning, even on a cloudy day. The short Kulki Boardwalk leads to a viewpoint and you're bound to spot lots of tropical plants )and birds) along the way.

On our way back to the ferry we took a short detour to Cow Beach, which was completely deserted. Along the way, we spotted a cassowary! Unfortunately, he disappeared before we could take a picture.

Return to the Rifle Creek Rest Area (day 1) or find a campground in Cairns .

Day 3: Snorkeling and scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef

Distance: 100 km (on water, 0 on the road)

Diving is one of our favorite travel activities and diving at the biggest reef in the world was a bucket list item for us!

We went on a day trip with Tusa Dive  and saw white-tipped reef sharks, lagoon-spotted stingrays, nudibranchs, and many more cool underwater creatures.

This is definitely a recommended activity if you're a fan of the underwater world. Don't worry if you don't have a scuba certification, this excellent day tour is suitable for divers and snorkelers alike.

Click here to book a snorkeling and scuba dive tour

Campsite: Cairns

Use Campermate to find a good spot near Cairns.

Day 4: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Distance: 100 km

Board the amazing Skyrail  near Cairns and fly over the tropical rainforest. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the world's oldest tropical rainforest and learn about its delicate ecosystem from the knowledgeable rangers who man the stations.

Gaze upon the impressive Barron Falls and pick up a souvenir or two in Kuranda, situated at the banks of the Barron River.

We spent pretty much all day riding the Skyrail and exploring the different stations, however, if you're short on time you could do it in 2-3 hours.

Campsite: Kairi Lions Park Rest Area

This grassy field in Kairi village can accommodate a lot of campers. There is a (clean-ish) toilet with running water. The spots are flat and it's very quiet. Plus, it's free!

Day 5: Fig trees, lakes, and boulders

The Curtain Fig Tree

A huge strangler fig tree slowly took over its neighbor (another big tree). When the neighboring tree fell down, the fig created a curtain to support itself and continued growing (aka slowly killing) yet another adjacent tree.

Yungaburra platypus viewing platform

Unfortunately, we didn’t see any of these fascinating creatures but don’t skip this spot next to Peterson Creek, perhaps you’ll get lucky!

Lake Eacham

This easy stroll around a beautiful volcanic crater lake (3km) leads through a dense jungle. Fun facts: the lake is 65 meters deep and has no in or outflow other than groundwater (no streams flow in).

Lake Barrine and the Twin Kauri Trees

At this crater lake, you'll find two very large Kauri trees. There is a trail around this lake as well (5km), with lovely views.

Gillies Range Road

This amazing twisting and turning road leads from Yungaburra to Gordonvale. The views are stunning, however, this road requires concentration and careful driving.

Just take your time and enjoy!

Babinda Boulders

A great spot to go for a swim (in one of the designated swimming areas). Also, check out the Devil’s Pool Lookout and the Boulders Lookout.

Important: please mind the warning signs, they are there for a reason. People have died at the Babinda Boulders because of the treacherous currents.

Campsite: Babinda Rotary Park

This beautiful free camp spot is situated just outside Babinda village. There are lots of flat spots, clean toilets, and hot showers (2 dollars for 4 minutes, only 1-dollar coins accepted).

There is even clean drinking water available to refill your water tank, making it one of the best free campgrounds in Australia.

Day 6: A waterfall, a beach, and a natural pool

Distance: 300 km

Josephine Falls

This is a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall that can be viewed from three platforms. There is a 700-meter trail leading from platform to platform and you can even go for a swim.

Again: be careful, the currents can be strong.

Mission Beach

there are so many stunning beaches along the Queensland Coast, with tropical palm trees and white sands…

In and around Mission Beach there are several places with stinger nets where it's safe to go swimming.

The Spa Pool

Take a little detour off the A1 and you'll find a pretty blue pool that is perfect for an afternoon dip!

The 3km gravel road leading to the pool is in good condition and can be done in a rental car or campervan .

Campsite: Balgal Beach free camping area

This is a nice free campsite next to the beach. There are only a couple of spots so you've either got to be a bit lucky and arrive early or make a reservation online .

The toilets are clean and there is a small restaurant across the street in case you don't feel like cooking or are short on supplies.

Day 7: Townsville

Distance: 160 km

This well-kept esplanade along the beach offers beautiful ocean views. Spend a morning exploring the center of Townsville, grab a coffee and enjoy life the Aussie way.

Townsville has lots of facilities for travelers, making it a great spot for a ‘chores day'. And since you've been on the road for a week, you probably have a couple of things that need to be taken care of.

Freshen up at the public showers at the Strand, do some grocery shopping and laundry, visit the public library to charge your phone / laptop / e-reader / camera / GoPro, and use the Wi-Fi, etc.

Campsite: Home Hill Comfort Stop

While this may not be the prettiest spot of your Australia road trip, there are lots of amenities (for free!).

Free hot showers (max. 5 minutes), clean toilets, warm water on tap, and 200MB of free Wi-Fi per day at the Visitor Center. There is even a BBQ in the kitchen area in case you want to roast some meat.

Week 2: the Whitsunday Islands, Agnes Waters, and the Inskip Peninsula

Day 8: beautiful beaches.

Distance: 270 km

This is a convenient stop for groceries and fuel if you need either of those. Don't spend too much time there, instead, continue to one of the two beautiful beaches below (or visit both!).

Dingo Beach

If you're lucky, you'll have this stunning beach all to yourself. The views are amazing and it's a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.

Hideaway Bay

Another great beach in Australia is Hideaway Bay, if you've still got some time after visiting Dingo beach it's worth checking out.

You can drive up the hill and take some beautiful pictures of the vivid blue waters.

Campsite: Cedar Creek Falls parking lot

This basic free site is actually just the parking lot of Cedar Creek Falls with a toilet and non-potable water. Many other cars as well and we didn't see a ‘No Camping’ sign.

It remains to be seen how long that will last…

Day 9: Airlie Beach and around

Cedar creek falls.

The perfect place to wake up and take an early dive! The water is cold but fresh (and croc-free).

Conway Beach

If you feel Airlie Beach is too busy, go to this beach instead! It was completely deserted when we visited.

Granted, the water isn't the pretty blue color it has in Airlie, but at least you got the whole stretch of sand to yourself…

The lovely Lagoon in Airlie Beach is a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon. The swimming pool is great and there are plenty of good spots on the grass to relax.

There is a nice and friendly atmosphere and a diverse crowd (from families with young kids to backpackers and people having a quick lunch break).

Mandalay Point

Be sure to visit this beautiful viewpoint just outside Airlie Beach. You'll be able to see the Whitsunday Islands in the distance and lots of sailing yachts on the water.

Campsite: BIG4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort

This was our first paid campsite in Australia and we felt it offered excellent value for money. Yes, it’s next to the airport so it’s noisy during the day.

That being said, there is a good camp kitchen, hot showers, clean toilets, a laundromat, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi (12-hour access).

There are also a couple of villas and apartments at the BIG4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort, click here to book.

Day 10: Sailing the Whitsunday Islands

Distance: 70 km

You've probably seen pictures of the Whitsunday Islands, it looks like a postcard of paradise.

The best way to explore the Whitsunday Islands is with an organized tour. We sailed around the beautiful islands for hours on the Camira catamaran .

Along the way, we stopped at Whitsunday Island and climbed to the famous Hill Inlet Lookout (pictured above).

We relaxed at the gorgeous white sands of Whitehaven Beach and had a delicious lunch on board.

After lunch, we went snorkeling before returning to Airlie Beach. Altogether it was a great day and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book a full-day eco-cruise to the Whitsunday Islands => in the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel and head to the marina in Airlie Beach by bus. During this trip, you'll go snorkeling, learn more about the marine life around the Whitsunday Islands, go for a walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, and have free time to relax on the beach and soak up the splendid scenery. Moreover, a morning and afternoon snack and lunch are included. Check availability here .

Campsite: BP Bloomsbury

This is a good (free) spot next to the A1. We parked behind the BP where it was very dark and quieter than expected. The BP has clean toilets and a shower (you can buy a token at the counter).

There are sockets for charging your electronics as well and you can buy 1-hour WIFI for 5 dollars. However, I recommend getting a local SIM card instead, which will give you more data for less money.

Day 11: Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Distance: 470 km

Clairview Community Center and beach

You'll be covering a lot of distance today and the parking lot at the Clearview Community Center is a great place to break up the journey, have a little picnic and admire the views.

Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Desperate to stretch your legs after a long day of driving? The Botanical Gardens are a great place to do so!

You can visit the (free) zoo and spot some cool animals, such as the super-rare cassowary.

Campsite: BP Marmor

Good free camp spot, next to the A1. Several other campers, clean toilets at BP, and free hot showers.

Day 12: Agnes Waters and Seventeen Seventy

Distance: 320 km

Agnes Water Bakery

This little bakery bakes such great pies, you can even find it in the Australia Lonely Planet . Be sure to try the bacon and cheese pie, it's delicious!

Agnes Waters Beach

There are so many beautiful beaches in Australia, but this was the first beach with people on it! Probably because there aren't as many deadly marine stingers in the waters south of Agnes Waters…

Chinaman’s Beach

No crowds here, just beautiful views…

Paperbark Forest Boardwalk

A short (400 meters) and fun boardwalk through a paperbark forest.

Seventeen Seventy

This small town derives its name from Captain Cook’s landing here in 1770.

You can walk from the James Cook Memorial to the viewpoint at the tip of the peninsula (3 km return). This is a lovely walk through the forest with beautiful panoramas along the way.

Campsite: Sharon Nature Park

A nice campsite (free) with toilets, running water and a camp kitchen. It’s close to Bundaberg (15 km).

Day 13: Bundaberg

Distance: 70km

Mon Repos Turtle Rookery

This interesting turtle information center features lots of displays about the different types of turtles that nest on the beach.

The center also organizes tours and has strict guidelines to avoid disturbing the turtles.

Mon Repos Beach

Some parts of the beach are open to the public and you can walk the Turtle Trail through the forest.

Important: stick to the trails and marked areas on the beach to avoid disturbing the turtles.

Campsite: Wallum Reserve

This is a free site with plenty of spots. If you arrive early you may be able to secure one of the secluded spots under the trees.

The drop toilet is relatively clean. There is no drinking water available.

Day 14: Maryborough and the Inskip Peninsula

Maryborough.

Maryborough is one of the oldest towns in Queensland. It's pretty famous because Pamela Lyndon, the author of Mary Poppins, was born here.

There are several old buildings and a life-size (aka rather small) statue of the iconic nanny.

Inskip Peninsula and the Carlo Sandblow

The Inskip Peninsula is a narrow spit of land that feels very rugged and remote. Be sure to hike up to the Carlo Sandblow, this 120-meter-tall dune offers beautiful views over the ocean and the colorful sands.

If you've got plenty of time, consider hiking the 5-day Cooloola Great Walk. More information can be found here .

Across the Inskip Peninsula is K'gari (Fraser Island), the largest sand island in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

?If you've got time, consider taking this Fraser Island tour (from Hervey Bay). Ride along sand tracks and see dramatic sand dunes, Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, and 75 Mile Beach. Check availability .

Campsite: Roos Creek Store Rest Area

A quirky free site next to the S15. The field can be a bit muddy after heavy rainfall, however, there are clean toilets and a sink to do dishes.

The shop owners are very friendly and donations are highly appreciated.

Week 3: The Glass Mountains, Towoomba, Brisbane, and Byron Bay

Day 15: gympie.

Distance: 26 km

Despite the fact that Gympie is practically on the Sunshine Coast, it rained all day. Therefore, we didn't do anything special.

Just some basic ‘chores' such as laundry, grocery shopping, a refill for our cooking gas bottle, fuel, and a visit to the library to catch up with family and charge our electronics.

Campsite: Six Mile Creek Rest Area

This is a fairly busy site, but it's free and there are clean toilets. It's situated next to the highway, drinking water is not available.

Day 16: Mapleton Falls and the Glass Mountains

Distance: 175 km

Mapleton Falls

Because the viewing platform is above the falls you can't really tell, but this waterfall is 120 meter high! The view is beautiful and the Wompoo circuit trail (1.3km) is a nice stroll through the rainforest.

The Glass Mountains

There are 14 freestanding mountains in an otherwise flat area and from the Mountain View Lookout, you can see all of them.

There are several hikes in the area, more information about the trails can be found here . We did the 4 km Tibrogargan circuit which was perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Campsite: Kilcoy Anzac Memorial Park

This is an excellent free campsite! Free hot showers, clean toilets, and along a road with no traffic during the night. Lots of other campers and by the looks of it some of them have been staying there for a while.

Day 17: Towoomba and around

The japanese garden ‘ju raku en'.

Japanese gardens are known for their clean designs and beautiful bridges and this park is no exception. It's a lovely place for a little stroll and some contemplation.

Picnic Point

This beautiful lookout is indeed the perfect place for a picnic!

Tabletop Mountain

The trail to the top of Tabletop Mountain (600 meters high) is one of the best hikes in Australia despite it not being very long.

Parked your car at the start of the gravel road, from there it’s about a 3.6km return hike. The path is quite rocky and steep in some places, so wear proper shoes and hiking clothes.

I accidentally made the climb in my (long) dress which was far from ideal. I didn’t know it would be a climb instead of a hike, otherwise, I'd have opted for a different outfit. At least I got a cute picture out of it;-).

Campground: James Hedges Park

A nice, free and quiet place to spend the night, even though it’s next to the A2. Clean toilets and good spots, especially on the far side of the grass overlooking the river.

Day 18: Brisbane

One of the best things to do in Brisbane is to visit the GOMA. When we were in Brisbane there was a brilliant Yayoi Kusama exhibition on display.

I don’t know much about art, however, I recognized Yayoi Kusama's unique style immediately! I loved the funky and colorful installations, especially the box with all the black and yellow pumpkins.

Tip: If you find yourself longing for more than 5m2 of space after almost 3 weeks on the road, Belise Apartments is a great place to stay in Brisbane.

Day 19: Brisbane

Distance: 40 km

Brisbane South Bank

We walked along the South Bank and loved the lively atmosphere! We visited on a Sunday and there were lots of families and groups of friends chilling out by the pool and Streets Beach.

Bring your swim clothes, a towel, water, and some snacks and spend a lazy afternoon here.

Visit the Epicurious Garden

The concept of this organic city garden is amazing, you can read all about it here .

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Take a stroll in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and relax in the shade.

Brisbane City Hall

Climb the Clock Tower for great views or sign up for a free tour to learn more about City Hall (detailed information can be found here ).

Campground: Hugh Muntz Rest Area

Nothing special but when it’s free you can’t complain;-). Metallic toilets without seats, dirty in the evening but clean in the morning (thank you cleaning crew!).

There are usually many campers even though there is a sign saying it’s only for self-contained vehicles.

Day 20: Waterfalls

Cedar creek falls, curtis falls and witches falls.

You'll visit not one but three waterfalls today! My personal favorite was Cedar Creek, however, the walk through the forest (3km) at Witches Falls is nice too and the view over the valley is beautiful.

Currumbin Rock Pools

An excellent spot for an afternoon swim.

Campsite: Yelgun Rest Area

Another free site that's situated along the highway and isn't very quiet. Clean toilets despite the many campers.

There is a sign saying ‘no camping’ so spending the night is at your own risk (as with all the spots mentioned in this Australia itinerary).

You can also choose to stay at the Sleepy Hollow rest area a little north of Yelgun.

Day 21: Byron Bay

Byron bay village and beach.

We drove past the Gold Coast to Byron Bay. The atmosphere in Byron Bay is lively but laid-back at the same time.

There is a great beach that is busy no matter what time of the day and plenty of cafes for a drink or a bite.

Byron Bay Lighthouse

If you're lucky with the weather and visit on a sunny day, this stunning panorama may end up being one of the highlights of your Australia road trip.

Byron Bay Lighthouse is pretty famous and while the lighthouse is indeed very pretty, it’s the stunning color of the water that draws the eye.

It's a gorgeous bay and the waters are crystal clear, you may even spot some stingrays!

Campsite: New Italy Rest Area

This free site is next to the road and rather noisy. The cafe on site is great though, as is the small museum and shop.

The toilets are very clean. The complex is run by volunteers and donations are highly appreciated.

Week 4: Yamba, Sydney, and the Blue Mountains

Day 22: yamba.

Distance: 60 km

Go for a stroll around Hickey Island

This is a quiet and relaxing place for a short walk. The view over the bay is beautiful, even on a cloudy day.

Turners Beach

Watch the surfers ride the waves (or join them if you're a surfer yourself).

Yamba Lighthouse and Yamba Main beach

Admire Yamba's cute little lighthouse atop a hill and visit Yamba Main beach.

Treat yourself to some frozen Yoghurt from Amici

All flavors are delicious, but the cake batter one is just irresistible…

Accommodation in Yamba

We stayed at the house of a friend, but you can either look for a campground via CamperMate or check out Adrift Apartments , which offers excellent value for money.

Day 23: Yamba

Blue and green lagoon (angouri).

These two freshwater pools are situated right next to the ocean. When we visited the weather was a bit dreary but these pools are a very popular place to go for a swim on a sunny (weekend) day.

Yamba Cinema

Because it was raining, we decided to catch a movie in the small but cute Yamba Cinema. There were only 6 people (including us) which made for a special and different cinema experience.

Mutton Bird Island viewpoint

In the afternoon the rain finally cleared up and we were desperate to stretch our legs. From the Marina boardwalk, we spotted a lot of fish and even a couple of stingrays!

The view from the top of Mutton Bird Island is beautiful, it feels a bit like standing at the edge of the world.

Campsite: Burdett Park Rest Area

This is a quiet and peaceful free site next to a sports field. Clean toilets, running water, and even a place to do the dishes.

Next to the road but almost no traffic at night. Donations are highly appreciated.

Day 24: Dorigo National Park

Dangar falls.

A very impressive waterfall that's best viewed from the top viewing platform. You can walk to the platform at the bottom of the waterfall as well, it's a nice stroll but the view from the top is much better.

Dorrigo Rainforest Center

The Dorrigo Rainforest Center is a very interesting and informative visitor center about this particular section of rainforest.

The movie about Dorrigo National Park is long but very insightful and worth your time.

From the Skywalk platform, you'll have an amazing view over the forest and if you're patient you'll see and hear lots of tropical birds.

The Wonga Walk leads along two waterfalls and through the dense jungle. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the 6.6 km circuit.

Campsite: John’s River Tavern/Blacksmiths Inn Tavern

Quiet free spot a little off the road. Plenty of grassy shady spots below the trees. You can use the toilets in the tavern during opening hours, and a public toilet a little down the road when the tavern is closed.

Day 25: Sydney

Distance: not sure, but we walked a lot!

Sydney Darling Harbor

You've probably seen many pictures of Sydney's beautiful harbor but nothing beats seeing it with your own eyes!

Admire the famous opera building, the Sydney skyline, the harbor bridge, and more. The best views of the harbor are from the ferry between Manly and Circular quay.

? Travel tip: if you plan to visit multiple sights in Sydney, consider buying the iVenture Card . This card gives you up to 40% discount on SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium , Taronga Zoo , Oz Jet Boating, Sydney Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Tower, Sydney Opera House, a hop-on, hop-off boat cruise, and more. Get your card here .

Botanical gardens

While there are many impressive buildings in Sydney, there are lots of big green spaces as well.

The lovely Botanical Gardens are next to the Opera building and are the perfect place for a casual stroll. Or find a bench in the shade and relax.

Hyde Park and the ANZAC Memorial

This is another lovely park with an impressive ANZAC memorial to remember the soldiers fallen in the wars Australia has fought over the years.

A pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with beautiful old buildings, lots of shops, and restaurants.

Visiting Sydney as a family? Read about the best things to do in Sydney with kids (written by a Sydney local)

Accommodation in Sydney

We were lucky to stay with friends, but there are many accommodation options in Sydney, suitable for all budgets.

Great options are St. Marks Randwich (a lovely design apartment) and Veriu Broadway (a boutique hotel near the city center).

Day 26: Sydney

Distance: another day of walking!

Explore this small but beautiful Sydney neighborhood and get some bubble tea while you're there.

The Observatory

From the observatory hill, you can see different areas of Sydney and get a grasp of the size of the city. Did you know about 20% of the Australian population lives here?

The Harbor Bridge

It's a bit of a walk but crossing the Harbor bridge on foot is definitely worthwhile. The views over the city and the harbor are great.

This is a lively neighborhood on the north side of the bay. There is a beautiful walk from Manly wharf to Spit Bridge.

Also read:  the ultimate Sydney city walk

Day 27: the Blue Mountains

Distance: 150 km

The Jamisons, Princes Rock, and Wentworth Falls Lookouts

There are several lookouts, all offering stunning views over the beautiful blue mountains.

A short trail leads down to the Princes Rock lookout which offers a much better view of the waterfalls than the Wentworth lookout.

Wentworth Falls Lake and Reserve

This peaceful and quiet lake is a good spot for a picnic or a lazy afternoon. There is also a playground, making it a good stop for families with kids.

Campsite: Blackheath Glen reserve

Quiet campsite in the forest that's usually quite busy with campers. The toilets were dirty and smelly, there are garbage bins.

If you arrive early you may be able to confiscate one of the good spots, otherwise, you'll have to squeeze in with the rest.

Day 28: the Blue Mountains

Distance: 200 km

Echo point and the Three Sisters

Echo Point is the most well-known (and therefore busiest) viewpoint in the Blue Mountains. It's overlooking a gorgeous valley it's the best place to admire the Three Sisters, a peculiar rock formation.

Evans Lookout and the Grand Canyon trail

This is a great hike down into a moist green gorge. You'll feel like walking through the King Kong film set.

Please note this 6.6-kilometer-long trail involves lots of steps, though if you're reasonably fit you won't have any issues completing it.

Be sure to bring enough water though as it can get pretty hot, especially if you do this trail in the early afternoon. The trail took us 2 hours to complete.

Campsite: Abercrombie River Camp

This was one of our favorite campgrounds in Australia. We didn't drive all the way down to the river because we didn't want to risk getting stuck with our camper van.

If you've got a 4×4 those spots are definitely worth checking out! It was very quiet during the night and the starry night was beautiful.

The toilet is very basic, there are lots of garbage bins and it's free.

Week 5: Canberra, Daylesford, and the Great Ocean Road

Day 29: canberra exploration, explore canberra.

I'll get straight to it, I didn't love Canberra…

Maybe we didn't do the right things, for one we should have visited the Australian War Memorial and the National Museum of Australia but the city felt so… quiet. Almost deserted.

We walked along the river, across Reconciliation Plaza, and visited the National Gallery and the National Library of Australia but just didn't feel the vibe.

It was a little more lively in the area around City Hill where we went for dinner but altogether I couldn't help but be a little disappointed in Canberra, especially after falling in love with both Brisbane and Sydney.

That being said, I'd love to revisit and give the city another try as I've heard many people who love Canberra.

Campsite: parking area in Murumbateman

We spent the night at a small parking area in Murumbateman, a little village along the A25.

There were no signs saying no overnight camping and but it's in the middle of the village so I'm not sure if the locals really appreciate people camping there.

Anyway, we arrived late, left early, and behaved like responsible and considerate campers.

Day 30: to the South (via Yass and Albury)

Distance: 330 km

Visit the Murbateman farmer's market

Every Saturday there is a small farmers market in Murbateman. There are cherries, local beer, freshly brewed coffee, and raw honey for sale amongst other things.

Take a shower at Caltex in Holbrook

After not being able to take a shower for a couple of days, finding a place to do so can be a real highlight;-).

Albury museum and library

We needed to charge our electronics and some Wi-Fi to catch up with our family and the Albany library offered both. There is also a small exhibition about the area.

Campsite: Chiltern park rest area

Free, next to the highway but behind an earthen wall with trees so the noise from the highway isn't that bad. The toilets were clean.

From the parking lot, you can go for a short stroll through the forest, we even saw a kangaroo!

Day 31: Daylesford

Distance: 325 km

Lake Daylesford

There is a lovely trail leading around the lake, perfect for a quiet afternoon walk.

Check my extensive guide about the best things to do in Daylesford .

Hepburn Springs

There are several mineral springs in this cute little village. Be sure to check out the Wyuna spring, Sulfur spring, and Locarno spring.

Don't forget to bring an empty bottle to sample some of the spring water!

Campsite: Mount Franklin reserve

This was our favorite free camp spot in Australia. This picturesque campsite is situated in the heart of an old caldera.

There are lots of beautiful spots under the trees and there is a nice walk up the hill and around the edge of the caldera. There are pit toilets and that's pretty much it.

No drinking water is available and neither are garbage bins. Bring plenty of water and take your trash with you when you leave.

Day 32: Queenscliff and Bells Beach

Princes park.

Princess Park is a nice place for a stroll. Be sure to walk to the beach for beautiful views over the bay. On a clear day, you can see Melbourne in the distance.

Queenscliff Fort

This fortress was built in 1860 and there are several options to take a tour and learn more about its history. Check this website for more information.

Bells beach

Torquay is the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road and there are loads of beautiful viewpoints from here until Petersborough.

One of those is Bells Beach, where you can spend an entertaining afternoon watching the surfers ride the waves.

Campsite: Big Hill campground

It can be challenging to find a spot on this popular free campground. The toilets were surprisingly clean. Garbage bins on site.

Day 33: The Great Ocean road

Erksine Falls

The trail leading to the lower viewpoint involves lots of steps but the view of the beautiful Erskine Falls is much better than the top viewing area and worth the effort.

The Great Ocean Road

The one and only Great Ocean Road ! Be prepared to pull over lots of times (but only when it's safe to do so). This is an amazing and scenic road.

Take your time and be prepared for lots of twists and turns and phenomenal views. Basically, everything you want for a road trip.

Castle Cove Lookout

A beautiful viewpoint and a good spot to make some lunch in your campervan while admiring the view.

The Gibson Steps

The original steps have been replaced by concrete ones but the new ones are nowhere as cool.

The old steps were carved from stone by hand by a man called Hugh Gibson. The view is beautiful, both from the top as well as from the beach.

The Twelve Apostles' viewpoint

This is a world-famous and iconic view. It's usually very crowded but definitely a spot to add to your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Loch Ard wreck lookout

From this beautiful viewpoint, you can see both a natural arch as well as the location where the Loch Ard clipper went down in 1878 (after a 3-month journey from England).

Campsite: Killarney Beach Camping reserve

This was the second paid campsite of our 5-week road trip. Included in the price is the use of the outside camp kitchen, the use of the (hot) showers, and the laundry machine.

Just behind the campsite (which doubles as a sports field) is the ocean.

Day 34: Tower Hill Reserve

Tower hill reserve.

A small but beautiful park consisting of an old volcano and wetlands. In the park, you can hike several (short) trails and look for wildlife. We saw emus just before exiting the park, a mother with two chicks!

Campsite: Meredith Park

A lovely free site next to Lake Colac. Clean toilets, several trash cans, and a beautiful view…

Day 35: Back to Melbourne

Distance: 160 km (back to Travellers Autobarn )

We had planned to spend a couple of days in Melbourne and subsequently fly to Darwin to visit friends.

However, a close friend of ours unexpectedly passed away so we abruptly ended our trip and flew home to attend his funeral and be with our family and friends. 

Road trip East Coast Australia: in conclusion

Despite the very sad end of our Australia road trip, we had 5 wonderful weeks. Rain forest, coral, ocean, lakes, waterfalls, fun cities, and little villages, Australia has so much lot to offer!

I hope this itinerary will help you plan your Australia road trip! Also, check out my Australia road trip budget or read about getting a work and travel visa for Australia .

This post was updated in December 2022.

Eimi Mezzadri

Friday 22nd of May 2020

I absolutely loved your post. I'm definitely gonna use it for my travels. I have one question though. In day 10 till 12 it appears the same Campsite? BP Bloomsbury? And it looks like it's far away from the places in day 12. Did you stay more nights over there? And one more thing. Did your campervan had a shower?

Monday 1st of June 2020

Thank you for reading and I'm happy to hear the itinerary has been useful in planning your trip:-) Great catch about the campsites for day 10-12 not being correct! It seems I forgot to adjust the name, the campsite descriptions are correct. I've adjusted the post, but in any case, day 10 should be BP Bloomsbury, day 11 BP Marmor and day 12 Sharon Nature Park.

Regarding your second question, our van didn't have a toilet or shower.

Again, thank you for letting me know about the error in the post and have a great road trip! Lotte

Rubab Krogh

Sunday 2nd of February 2020

Hello Lotte, Love your blogs. Just read your 6 weeks Newzealand itinerary (absolutely marvelous) and now this wonderful Australia 5 weeks trip. We (my husband and 2 kids -age 12 and 16) are planning a 6 months trip to South east Asia, but mainly Australia, Newzealand, Malaysia and Indonesia. What time of the year were you in Australia? We will be there in december and plan to travel around in Australia for 8-9 weeks, after which we leave for New Zealand - probably 6 weeks. The rest of the plan is kind of open. Is December, January a very bad time to travel in Australia? Our itinerary is more like from Cairns down to Melbourne and then to Alice springs - road trip ofcourse:)

Wednesday 19th of February 2020

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm very happy to hear you've enjoyed reading my itineraries for NZ and Australia:-) What an amazing family trip you've got planned! Regarding your question, we were in Australia in November and December. The Summer months aren't bad times to travel around Australia, however, keep in mind the Aussies themselves are also celebrating the holiday so campsites might be a bit busier than October/November and February/March. That being said, the same is true for NZ and if you leave for NZ in February, holidays there will have ended so chances are you'll have a beautiful campsite entirely to yourselves:-)

Enjoy planning your trip and have a great time on the road! Lotte

Tuesday 1st of January 2019

Hi Lotte, as a lifelong Canberra resident I’m so sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy your visit. I hope you can come back someday and stay a little longer and see more of the city - you missed all the good bits! I’d be happy to show you around :-)

The small town you stayed in just outside Canberra is Murumbateman - not Murbateman - it’s right in the middle of the cool climate wine region and also worth exploring.

Wednesday 9th of January 2019

Dear Trish,

Thanks so much for your kind comment and offer! I'd love to give Canberra another chance as I do feel the city has more to offer and we missed several interesting sights (such as the Australian War Memorial and the National Museum of Australia). Thank you for letting me know about my spelling error, I have adjusted the name of Murumbateman:-)

I was pregnant during the time of our trip so no wine for me, but for a second visit I would definitely love to explore the wine region! Lotte

Thursday 15th of November 2018

I love this article! I've been thinking about travelling to Australia and going solo. Did you feel safe when you parked at the campsites at night? I'm wondering if its ok to do it alone...thanks!

Friday 16th of November 2018

Hi Queenie,

Thank you, I'm happy to hear you like the post! I never felt unsafe at the campsites, however, I was traveling with my husband. I think Australia is a very safe country in general and you're not very likely to run into any issues traveling alone. That being said, I would always lock your car and if a campsite doesn't feel good, leave and find another one. Also, we had a campervan with good curtains so nobody could look inside, I'd recommend this for you as well. Enjoy!

Sunday 4th of February 2018

Great post! We did this road trip a few years ago but you found a tonne more places to go. Feeling inspired to do it all over again!

Thanks Jodie! Even though we covered quite a lot, there is always more to see;-).

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: A Complete Guide

Australia’s East Coast is one of the most popular places in the world to travel. It spans the length of Queensland and into New South Wales, and features the larger cities of Cairns and Brisbane. With its world class beaches, ancient rainforests, endless adrenaline activities and charming towns, it’s truly a destination like no other. So the main aim of this guide is to equip you with everything you need to know to plan your own Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

I’ve done three road trips along Australia’s East Coast (mad, I know!). The first time, I joined an organised tour from Brisbane up to Cairns. It was fast paced and more fun than I could have ever imagined. The second time, I chose to do the journey more slowly in a camper van south from Cairns to Byron Bay. For the third visit, I did an awesome but far shorter one week road trip from Byron Bay to Noosa. So I feel I’ve got really sound experience in devising an East Coast itinerary.

One of the best things about the East Coast of Australia is the sheer variety in things to do. On each East Coast trip, I’ve ended up doing completely different things and each road trip has been equally incredible.

If you’re trying to decide which direction to travel the East Coast, there aren’t really any overarching reasons to go one way and not the other. The biggest factors will be around your plans before and after the East Coast, plus the time you have available. If you are planning to take 6+ weeks, I would suggest perhaps starting in Cairns. Then you could carry on driving south past Brisbane and on towards Sydney and Melbourne.

For the purpose of this blog post, I will share an Australian East Coast road trip itinerary starting in the tropical city of Cairns in the north. From here, the itinerary will weave south past pristine beaches, rugged mountains ranges, waterfalls, tropical rainforest, charming surf towns, some of the world’s best diving spots, as well as the epic K’gari island (also known as Fraser Island).

This guide is aimed at all travellers, with suggestions for both backpackers and those on a slightly bigger budget throughout. It can be used for anyone travelling in Australia as it covers all the best things to do along the East Coast.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Essential things to know

Wow, so where to start! Some of the most important things to consider for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary are time of year to visit, vehicle type and budget. So let’s get stuck in!

When is the best time to travel the East Coast of Australia?

First things first – when is the best time of year to plan a road trip for Australia’s East Coast?

As you can see below, Australia is a huge country. You can fit about two thirds of Europe into its land mass. And therefore, the weather across the whole of Australia does vary, especially more so in the Australian winter months (May to September). I’ve summarised this below, but do make sure to check out my detailed Australia climate guide too.

Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, is the largest northernmost town on the East Coast and has hot weather year-round. However, this is divided into two distinct seasons – wet and dry.

During the Australian winter ( May to September ), Cairns experiences warm, dry weather and low crowds .

During the Australian summer ( November to April ), Cairns is hot and humid, with plenty of rain . This tropical monsoonal starts building up in December and by January, the rains are mostly daily and can be torrential.

Although the days can still be hot and sunny, the tropical rains can make diving conditions more challenging, and visibility worse for seeing underwater life. And as Cairns is popular for diving, it could be a real shame to visit and not be able to enjoy this fully.

Another key factor with Cairns and the surrounding area is stinger season. This refers to the presence of tiny stinging box jellyfish in the water. The sting can be extremely painful, and can be fatal in some cases. If you do visit in the months when this is at its worse (Jan to March), you will have to wear stinger suits in the water.

So, where possible, visiting Cairns in the Australian winter means long, sunny days, with minimal rain and no stingers in the water. As mentioned above, conditions for diving in the Great Barrier Reef are optimal with perfect water temperatures and visibility in excess of 50m. It’s also an excellent time to see the magnificent Daintree Rainforest at its best and full of life. Furthermore, the water levels are ideal so white water rafting is an awesome activity to during this time, but can often be too dangerous during the months from January to March.

From personal experience, I found the weather in Cairns during August/September to be perfect. We were able to experience every activity and as this is the start of spring, there was plenty of colour and life in the plants and trees. On my second road trip, we were in Cairns in the month of December which was still quite good, although noticeably hotter and humid. It was early December and we experienced no rainfall, but prices for accommodation were higher. I also got stung by a rogue stinger who had made an early arrival into the waters in the Great Barrier Reef. It was very painful for about 30 minutes, and then the sting subsided.

So to summarise, it depends on the activities you plan to do in Cairns as to when is the best time to visit, but generally the months from May to September are best.

Then, at the southern end of Queensland is Brisbane. It receives some of the most enjoyable and reliable weather in Australia throughout the year. It has a warm-temperate climate, meaning there are few days you’d need a jumper.

As with Cairns, the Australian summer from January to March bring the hottest and most humid weather . During this period is the highest chance of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, although they are mostly in the late afternoon.

The best time to visit Brisbane is April to May and September to November , when temperatures are comfortable and humidity and rainfall are low. However, June through to August is also a great time to go to Brisbane, but the temperatures are slightly cooler.

I found Brisbane in the months of September and December to be really lovely, with long hot, sunny days. However, visiting Brisbane and the surrounding area in February did bring a lot of rain.

So when should I plan my East Coast road trip?

Overall, visiting Queensland, which spans from Tropical North Queensland to just south of Brisbane, is best avoided from January to March in order to have the best experience for most activities. If you’re embarking on a longer Australia trip, then it might be best to spend these months in New South Wales (Sydney and surrounds) and Victoria (for Melbourne and surrounds), as the weather here is at its peak from January to March. The same goes for visiting the Outback, which is generally best visited from April to October/November.

If your Australia trip is focused purely on the East Coast, with the Cairns to Brisbane road trip being the primary focus, then a trip from May to August would be the best time. This also avoids stinger season completely. It would be slightly cooler in Brisbane, but you would still unlikely need a jumper or a jacket.

If you’re on a longer trip in Australia, then as just mentioned, you could spend December – March exploring Victoria and New South Wales, before then heading to the East Coast from April onwards. Alternatively, you could do the Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary during August, September and/or October, before heading down to Victoria and New South Wales onwards for the better weather during the Australian summer.

How long does it take to travel East Coast Australia?

If you’re short on time, then it can be done in two weeks. This would cover the highlights. If you can spare longer, perhaps 4-6 weeks you’ll have enough time to see and do just about everything, and have some time to relax!

If you have two months or so, then an awesome adventure would be to drive from Cairns to Melbourne which would easily take in some of the very best parts of Australia. You’d traverse through some seriously different climates and experience both the tiniest beach towns as well as the huge, cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne.

Should I go for a car or a camper van for my East Coast road trip?

Any road trip in Australia is best with a camper van. The freedom is unparalleled and you can truly travel at your own pace.

With a camper van, you can adjust your itinerary more easily and generally, it offers better value as the camper van doubles up as your accommodation each night. However, a camper van isn’t for everyone as space can be challenging.

The main camper van companies in Australia are:

• Spaceships Rentals
• Wicked Campers

Pros and cons of a camper van

• Can save costs on more expensive hotel or lodging accommodation
• It can save money on food costs as you have your own stove/kitchen area in the van which is great for easy breakfasts and some dinners
• Is a good way to split fuel costs between friends if there’s a few of you
• You can easily stay longer somewhere you like if you don’t need to look for accommodation
• There are many free campsites, motorway rest stops or areas to park and sleep overnight (check Wikicamping and the state parks’ app/websites )
• You can sleep and wake up so much closer to nature
• You don’t need to carry suitcases or bags in and out of hotels
• In the busiest months, the cost of a camper van can be steep
• You will spend more on fuel as the vehicle is heavier
• Making the bed each night can get a little tiring and sand from the beaches gets everywhere
• You can’t really keep the air-con on overnight without draining the battery, so it gets hot!
• Also, it’s likely you will lose stuff within the van all the time. There are just way too many cubby holes and spaces for things to fall down
• There may be some days you go without a shower
• Can be moments where it’s difficult to park, especially if you visit cities like Brisbane
• There are many ways to lose money from your deposit with a camper van as there are so many more parts to it to break!

If you really fancy resting your head somewhere a little more comfortable each night, then a car is a great option. You still have a huge amount of freedom, but just slightly less freedom as you do need to find somewhere to sleep each night.

Pros and cons of hiring a car

• Lower initial cost for renting a vehicle
• Also lower petrol costs
• Easier to park in general
• You have a boot to keep your suitcase in, and act as an on-the-go wardrobe space
• Less risk of losing things as the vehicle is way smaller
• No need to go without showers and guaranteed a slightly more comfortable and cooler sleep every night
• May save money if hotels, lodges etc include breakfast in the rate
• Need to find a place to stay each night, which can be expensive and time consuming/stressful in peak season
• In my option, there’s a slight less feel of ‘adventure’ with a normal hire car, as opposed to a camper van

Joining an organised tour or using bus services

I joined an organised tour one year with Topdeck (read all about the trip here ). Generally, I don’t tend to join multi-week tours but it was aimed at students and more than 40 of my friends booked on. So as you can imagine, it was one of the best experiences of my life. I enjoyed some awesome adventures each day, with nearly all meals and activities included, it was excellent value. Except for skydiving, all other activities were already paid for, including bungee jumping, white water rafting and admission to the Australia Zoo.

Organised tours along the East Coast of Australia are very popular, but naturally, they don’t allow for any freedom or adjusting the itinerary at all. However, it can be a great way to meet people and have all logistics taken care of.

Some great companies include: Contiki , G Adventures , the Oz Experience, Intrepid

Stray also has a great value Cairns to Sydney bus pass, which you can book online here .

Another alternative is to use bus services such as Greyhound or Premier. Both of these companies offer dozens of buses stopping at hundreds of convenient stops across the East Coast every day. Plus, you can book the tickets just the day before and sometimes on the day, which can be really handy. If you don’t fancy driving the East Coast yourself, this is a great way to travel. They also offer hop-on hop-off bus passes which can be great value – for example, Greyhound has a bus pass that covers you for 90 days and starts at around $349.

Greyhound offers the slightly more expensive bus tickets of the two, but the buses are comfortable and offer on board Wi-Fi.

Finally, I wouldn’t recommend planning to do this trip by hitchhiking. It’s not as common as movies might suggest!

Eating on the East Coast

Three meals a day, plus snacks and coffees/drinks can add up quickly when travelling in Australia.

Fortunately, BBQ-ing in Australia is every bit as popular as you might imagine. There are gas BBQs all over Australia in parks, by beaches, in national parks and next to boardwalks. They are free to use and really easy to operate, most having utensils to use too. There’s always plenty of table space nearby and it’s one of the most easy ways to assimilate into Australian life, as these are equally popular with locals and tourists.

Supermarkets are really geared up to this, and their meat section sells all kinds of meats in different marinades, making it really easy. Furthermore, they always have a delicatessen section with choose-your-own salad bowls and side dishes. It couldn’t be more simple to pull together an amazing BBQ spread in Australia.

The big supermarket chains are Woolworths and Coles, which have the most competitive pricing and a huge range. In some smaller locations, you might find an IGA or a SPAR which can be a tad more expensive.

When you don’t feel like cooking or don’t have the chance to do a food shop, there are popular fast food chains such as Hungry Jacks and Pie Face, or smoothie chains like Boost. I personally prefer to sample the local food in cafes in town, or a family-owned fish and chip shop instead. There are also plenty of pubs in Australia, which are pretty cheap but the quality can be a bit iffy (like Wetherspoons in the UK).

A popular place for a pub-like meal on a Sunday is the local Surf Life Saving Club, and you’ll see these dotted all along the coastline – particularly in the Gold Coast. Mostly aimed at local members, they nearly all welcome in tourists (with sign-in at the door). It’s a very Australian experience if you like beer, local live musicians and ridiculously big portions of chips, nachos and battered fish!

Then of course there are excellent restaurants all across the East Coast.

Deciding where to stay on the East Coast – hotels, lodges, hostels or camping

Even if you do the road trip along the East Coast in a camper van, there will be some nights where you’ll need to opt for a campsite for its shower facilities.

And there are hundreds of campsites along the East Coast. Some are your traditional pitch and stay camping grounds, and some are huge, expansive holiday resorts. Whilst these are typically aimed at domestic travellers, everyone is welcome and you may be blown away by the facilities.

The best resources for campsites on the East Coast of Australia are:

• Pitchup (can book directly on this site too)
• Tourism Australia
• Camping in Queensland
• Camping in NSW

The East Coast is also home to hundreds and hundreds of hostels. There are also some hostel chains in Australia, and nearly always one where you’re travelling. The two biggest chains are Nomads and Base. Staying in one of these means a fairly reliable and comfortable experience. The dorms are clean and secure, and the social areas are often amazing. Staying in hostels add to a quintessential Australia experience. I’ve had some brilliant stays and met some awesome people.

However, I prefer now to travel and stay in hotels where possible. On my most recent visit to Australia, we had a hire car and spent our nights in various Airbnbs and hotels along the East Coast. We stayed in some amazing Airbnbs, including a treehouse in the Gold Coast and a Balinese style villa in Noosa.

However, throughout this itinerary I will suggest a couple of options for each destination that cover campsites, hostels and hotels. I’ve managed to stay in all three types nearly everywhere along the East Coast now, so I’ve got some good experience!

Money and Budget

The currency in Australia is the dollar (AUD). Generally across Australia card payments are widely accepted, and contactless is very popular as the limit is $200.

For slightly more remote locations or for any really small villages you visit, I would recommend keeping cash on hand.

In terms of budgeting, prices are approximately the below:

Accommodation:

• Camping site (tent) – $10-20 per night
• Camper van spot at campsite – $20 – $50 per night, depending on size and facilities of the campground/holiday resort
• Double room in a value hotel or holiday resort: $100-140
• Double room in a 4 or 5 star hotel: $200 – $300 depending on time of year you visit

Food (based on two people):

• On-the-go coffees: $9
• Fast food or take away meal: approx $20
• Local cafe or pub meal: $60
• 3 Course meal in a good restaurant: $140-200

In terms of alcohol, it’s not sold at supermarkets but instead at bottle shops such as Dan Murphy’s. Prices are a little more than in the UK and the US, but they do sell boxed wine, affectionally called ‘goon’ in Australia. Boxed wine doesn’t taste the best BUT it’s cheap and lasts longer than a bottle!

Excursions and activities are likely to be your greatest expenditure. There are so many bucket list activities on the East Coast of Australia vthat I highly recommend putting budget aside so you can make the most of these. As an indication, here are the approximate prices of several activities:

• Animal sanctuary entrance fee: approx $40 per adult
• 15,000 ft sky dive in Cairns: $359 per person (not including video or photos)
• Entry to Daintree National Park and canopy walk: $35 per adult

As an approximate guide, the AUD to GBP conversion is roughly half. So animal sanctuary entrance is around £20 ($40).

The AUD to USD conversion is about 1.5, so animal sanctuary entrance is around USD $25 (AUD $40).

Finally, fuel in Australia is similar in price to the UK, but more expensive than the USA. Fuel for the whole route could cost around AUD$600-800, or more depending on detours you might take.

Deciding where to go on your Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So you’ve decided when to embark on your epic road trip, and you’ve got your vehicles or bus pass sorted. Now the fun part – deciding where to go!

If you can’t already tell, I love the East Coast of Australia. It has everything AND warm weather year round.

As mentioned above, I have driven the route in both directions but my favourite was probably the Cairns to Brisbane drive. This would also be considered the most iconic road trip for the East Coast of Australia too. It spans world class beaches, dozens of stunning national parks as well as incredible Great Barrier Reef and the twinkly Whitsunday Islands.

So for the purpose of this blog post, we’ll be starting in Cairns but this itinerary can be modified in any way, and of course started in Sydney, Byron Bay or Brisbane. I also list the minimum to maximum number of days needed in each place to help you plan and decide where to visit.

The most important thing to remember is that Australia is BIG . The Cairns to Brisbane road trip spans 1,682km (or 1,045 miles), and that’s taking the most direct route without any detours. It’s around 19 hours of driving if you were to go straight through. There are also some seriously long stretches of driving without any major towns or stops too.

One thing you must remember is to fill your car or van with fuel whenever you can. Never leave a town with less than a full tank – I speak from experience!

So without further ado, let’s jump in with our first stop, Cairns!

Suggested time for Cairns: 3-5 days

This tropical city is one of my favourite places in Australia. Although the town is somewhat unassuming, the adventures to be had in and around Cairns are epic!

The relaxed tropical lifestyle in Cairns will ease you in to an Australia road trip, but could also make a relaxing end point too to your road trip.

Cairns could easily be one of the places where you choose to spend longer, but only if your budget allows. There are countless awesome sights to see and places to visit in Cairns , but the tours can add up and makes Cairns quite an expensive stop. That being said, one of the best things to do in Cairns is free – and that’s spending the day at the incredible Esplanade Lagoon in the heart of town.

Best things to do and see in Cairns

Free or low cost:

• Cool off and relax in the magnificent Cairns Lagoon
• Take a road trip to the Daintree Rainforest at Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas
• Spend the day in the Behana Canyon, a swimming hole surrounded by dense rainforest. Why not join this tour .
• Eat and drink your way around some of the beautiful waterside restaurant and bars
• Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre

More expensive but bucket list activities:

• Join a boat trip to the incredible Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel or learn to dive
• Take a boat out to the stunning Fitzroy Island
• Brave the ultimate leap of faith at the AJ Hackett bungee jump centre
• Go ATV riding in the rainforest
• Take the train to spend the day at the Kuranda Rainforest Skyway , an awesome journey across the rainforest finishing at the epic Mossman Falls
• Enjoy a hop on hop off beer and drinks tour of Cairns
• Join a tour of the Atherton Tablelands , and visit beautiful waterfalls and scenic lakes (including the famous Milla Milla Falls)
• Enjoy a foodie tour and wine tasting in the Atherton Tablelands
• Visit the Daintree Rainforest and enjoy Cape Tribulation .

Blow-the-budget fun:

• Book a super special day on the Sunlover Reef pontoon , where you enjoy all the activities at this mini village floating on the Great Barrier Reef
• Organise a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, a true once in a lifetime experience, or even a scenic flight !
• Enjoy an epic skydive over Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay in Cairns

In Cairns, there are no free camping options in the city centre, but there are some paid campsites on the edge of town. Make sure to check this guide on camping near Cairns .

And here are my best picks for accommodation in Cairns:

Best luxury stay: Shangri-La at The Marina (£90pn) or the Pullman Reef Casino (from £97pn)

Great value mid-range stay: Pacific Hotel Cairns (from £63pn)

Best hostel: Gilligans Backpacker Resort (dorm from £17pn, private room from £70) has some of the best facilities I have experienced anywhere. It’s a lively party place but does also offer great value if you book out a 4 or 6 bed dorm for your group.

Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest

• Suggested time for the Daintree Rainforest: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Cairns to Port Douglas: 68km (1hour) along the Captain Cook Highway
• Driving distance from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation: 75km (1h30)

This beautiful corner of Australia is home to the Daintree Rainforest, which is the world’s oldest! It is also unique as it the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

Cape Tribulation however is considered one of the most dangerous beaches in the world. This is due to the huge population of crocodiles that reside here, as well as the often-fatal stings from Box Jellyfish in the water.

Whilst driving to Cape Tribulation can easily be done as a full day trip , it’s well worth an overnight stay if you have the time. I would perhaps recommend opting for a small hire car for the day, instead of taking a camper van however. The roads can be narrow and difficult to drive, especially as you get deeper into the rainforest. Note that driving further north from Cape Tribulation towards Cooktown and the Cape York Village requires a 4WD and some previous experience essential as the tracks here are very challenging.

Port Douglas on route is also a beautiful upscale resort town which is definitely worth a stop for a few hours. The beach is beautiful and over four miles long, and its main street is packed with quirky shops and independent cafes and restaurants. If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to check out the beachside markets too.

In terms of activities in the Daintree forest, there are plenty:

• Soar above the rainforest on a zipline adventure
• Explore the rainforest from the elevated walkways
• Take on some of the best hikes, including the Mount Sorrow hike
• Spot crocodiles on a river cruise on the Daintree River
• River drift snorkelling near Port Douglas
• Explore the deserted and untouched beaches, and see where the rainforest meets the reef
• Visit the Daintree tea plantation
• Swim in the Mossman Gorge

The Cairns to Port Douglas drive is spectacular, with the road weaving between the rainforest and the azure ocean. The views are stunning. From Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation, the road is often surrounded by the dense, lush rainforest and you have to take a small ferry to cross the Daintree River. I’ve written a complete itinerary guide to driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, so make sure to check this out.

In terms of places to stay in Port Douglas or Cape Tribulation, there are some wonderful eco-stays including:

• Niramaya Villas & Spa (around £450pn)
• Noah Creek Eco Huts (around £157pn)
• Thala Beach Nature Resort (around £220pn)

In Port Douglas, there is also the beautiful Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort (from £129 pn) too or the stunning Shantara Resort (from £229 pn).

Alternatively, you can of course join a day trip, such as this one which is a full day exploring the Daintree rainforest, the Mossman Falls and Cape Tribulation . Or this day trip, which includes a stop at Port Douglas and Wildlife Habitat .

Mission Beach

• Suggested time for Mission Beach: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Cairns to Mission Beach: 139km (1h50)

Next stop, Mission Beach. In my opinion, the drive from Cairns south is stunning with the Bruce Highway bordered on both sides by sugar cane plantations, followed by banana trees. The first moderate sized town is Innisfail, which I personally don’t think is worth a stop. So I recommend heading straight to Mission Beach. Make sure to look out for cassowaries at the side of the road!

Mission Beach is popular with backpackers for its laidback vibes and excellent beaches. What it lacks in obvious activities and sightseeing opportunities, it makes up for in huge stretches of glorious sandy beaches and walking tracks in the rainforest. I’ve only ever stopped at Mission Beach in October and December which is stinger season, so we could not enter the water.

I would recommend a night in Mission Beach, especially as it provides a decent break in the long drive between Cairns and Townsville, which is the next large town (347km, 4hrs). Mission Beach is also right next to Tully’s River, which is home to some of the best white water rafting in Australia.

Book your white water rafting trip to Tully’s River here!

Where to stay in Mission Beach

• Best luxury stay: Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach (from £100pn)
• Good value mid-range stay: Mission Reef Resort (from £54 pn)
• Best hostel: Jackaroo Treehouse (from £30pn)

Townsville & Magnetic Island

• Suggested time for Townsville: half day (but longer if visiting Magnetic Island)
• Driving distance from Mission Beach to Townsville: 235km (2h40)

This large town is largely residential and also home to a big Australian military and naval base. I personally don’t think there’s a huge amount to see in Townsville but it is home to my absolute favourite wildlife sanctuary in Australia, which is the Billabong Sanctuary .

I cannot recommend stopping at this amazing wildlife sanctuary more! It’s the perfect place to meet a whole host of the most iconic Australian animals, such as the echidna, wombat, koala and kangaroo. Billabong Sanctuary is a really well-run wildlife centre, with lots of opportunities for animal interaction, plus the location itself is beautiful. It’s located 17km south of Townsville, so you could spend the afternoon there as you continue on your road trip south.

Townsville is the starting point for the ferry to Magnetic Island. This slice of paradise is popular with backpackers but a little less frequented by other types of tourists. I haven’t been to Magnetic Island, so I cannot comment from personal experience but I understand it’s super-laidback and full of beautiful, scenic spots. Make sure to book your ferry tickets from Townsville to Magnetic Island in advance here.

If you do choose to spend a night in Townsville, the Oaks Gateway Suites offer great rooms at a good price (£67 pn). Alternatively, there is a BIG4 Holiday Park at Rowes Bay with beachside cabins from £50.

Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays

• Suggested time for Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays: 2-5 days
• Driving distance from Townsville to Airlie Beach: 273km (3h10)

Airlie Beach is the gateway to The Whitsundays, and this stop is a must-do on any East Coast road trip itinerary. Make sure to read my detailed guide to visiting the Whitsunday Islands here .

The town itself is popular with backpackers, although there are few luxury hotels. Those on a slightly smaller budget or tighter time frame can visit The Whitsundays on a full day boat trip.

But if you have time, then I highly recommend splurging on a sailing trip around the Whitsundays. You can spend around 2-3 days on living onboard a sailing boat, where you can snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef and visit Whitehaven, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Alternatively, you could stay on one of the Whitsunday Islands for a couple of nights, for the ultimate barefoot paradise experience.

There are some amazing resort hotels in The Whitsunday Islands, with the InterContinental Hayman Island being one of the very best stays.

I’ve done both a sailing trip and a 3 night stay on the islands, and I honestly couldn’t say which I preferred. Both were incredible.

For day sailing trips, you could wait to book this in Airlie Beach, but you risk the boats being full, so I recommend booking a tour in advance. Here are a few excellent suggestions:

• Whitsundays Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Adventure from Airlie  (£108pp)
• Half Day Whitsunday & Whitehaven 6-Hour Cruise  £63pp)
• Whitsundays Ocean Rafting Tour: Snorkel, Walk & Whitehaven  (£85pp)

For 1 or 2 night sailing trips, you could check the below companies:

• OzSailWhitsunday s (2 day, 2 night trips) – starts at £208pp
• Whitsundays Sailing Adventures  (offer a 1 night sailing trip) – starts at £216pp
• The same company also offers an awesome  3-day, 2-night sailing and diving trip  – starts at £390pp
• Red Cat Adventures  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
• Wings Whitsundays Adventure  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
• ProSail offer 2 or 3 night sailing adventures – starting at £398pp

Back on Airlie Beach, there isn’t a huge amount to do, so if you choose to visit the islands as a day trip, you could spend a relaxing day at the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

But this could be a place to splurge and explore the Whitsundays from a difference perspective entirely. For example, this  1-hour scenic flight over the Whitsundays Island archipelago  looks incredible, or what about a  tandem skydive over the Whitsundays ?

Or you could go all out with a  helicopter trip to the Whitsunday Islands . It even lands on Whitehaven beach – possibly the most incredible day imaginable.

Slightly further inland from Airlie Beach (and slightly more affordable), there are some great hiking routes in the Conway National Park and waterfall swimming at the beautiful Cedar Creek Falls.

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

There’s a huge number of places to stay in Airlie Beach, covering every budget. In fact, you can find some seriously nice stays at very good value. Here’s my pick:

• Base Airlie Beach (dorm from £16 per night, double from £53)
• Big4 at Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort (camping from £19 per night)
• Magnums Airlie Beach (from £31 per night)
• Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach (from £57 per night)
• Airlie Beach Hotel (from £82 per night)
• Mirage Whitsundays (from £117 per night)
• Coral Sea Resort Hotel (from £139 per night)

Where to stay on the Whitsundays

I’ve written about all the various options in the Whitsundays in more detail, which I recommend you check out.

Fortunately, there’s a good range of tropical island resorts to stay on, with Daydream Island offering excellent value. Rates here start from £150 per night.

One of the most luxurious resorts to stay in in the Whitsunday islands is the InterContinental Hayman Island  (formerly the One&Only). Rates start from around £450 per night.

Alternatively, some other ultra-lux options include:

• Beach Club , an opulent hotel on Hamilton Island . Rates start from £397 per night
• Elysian Retreat  can only host 20 people at any time, and is the ultimate in barefoot luxury with all stays on all-inclusive basis. Rates start at £630 per night.
• Or, the exceptional Paradise Cove Resort. I recommend this excellent boat tour and 2 nights all inclusive in a secluded villa  at the island resort. (£311 per person)

Capricorn Caves

• Suggested time for the Capricorn Caves: 1/2 day
• Driving distance from Airlie Beach to the Capricorn Caves: 460km (5hrs)

The stretch south from Airlie Beach is a long one – I think the second longest stretch of driving on this road trip. Optional stops before the Capricorn Caves include Mackay, a small quiet town with some lovely cycling and hiking, but no essential bucket list adventures. After Mackay, the next potential stop point would be Rockhampton, where (without exaggerating) there is nothing to do.

I recommend breaking up the long drive from Airlie Beach to the next key stop (Hervey Bay/K’gari Island) with a visit to the Capricorn Caves. These are fairly near to Rockhampton, so depending on the time you arrive in this area, you may want to consider an overnight stay near Rockhampton or a little further south at Gladstone (137km/1hr41).

The Capricorn Caves are called this because they are located on the Tropic of Capricorn. They are an awesome complex of caves, with over 1.5km of passages to explore. They only way to visit is on a tour, often called the ‘Cathedral Tour’ as they all take in the incredible largest cave, which often holds wedding and special events. The acoustics are incredible and it was like nowhere I’d seen before.

Book a tour to the Capricorn Caves here!

Taking around one hour in total, it’s well worth a visit and is often missed off travellers’ East Coast itineraries.

Suggestions for affordable places to stay around this area:

• Mackay: Central Tourist Park (£41 per night)
• Rockhampton: Denison Boutique Hote l (£54 per night)
• Capricorn Caves: Capricorn Motel (£65 per night)
• Gladstone: Barney Beach Accommodation (£50 per night)

Rainbow Beach

• Suggested time for Rainbow Beach and K’gari Island: ideally 3-4 days
• Driving distance from Rockhampton/theCapricorn Caves to Rainbow Beach: 601km (6hrs40)

From the Rockhampton area onwards, there are a few stops to consider including Agnes Water/1770 and Bundaberg. The latter is famous for its rum, and visiting the Bundaberg Distillery makes for a brilliant stop. Make sure to book a tour to the local brewery too!

The town of 1770, sometimes written as Seventeen Seventy, is the second spot in Australia that James Cook and his crew landed in the year 1770. We did stop here and I was fairly disappointed with the lack of things to do and see, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend visiting.

So unless you make a brief stop at Bundaberg, I recommend driving straight through to the Rainbow Beach area. It’s a long old drive, that’s for sure! Looking back, that was why we stopped at 1770 – to break it up!

Rainbow Beach is located in the Great Sandy National Park and is a tiny backpacker town, surrounded by huge, towering sand dunes. The town is mostly a starting point for Fraser Island tours, but you can definitely spend a relaxing day here too.

One of my favourite things to do in Rainbow Beach is climb the huge Carlo Sand Blow and admire the spectacular views across the ocean. The Great Sandy National Park is well worth exploring too – you can even do this on horseback !

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

There are quite a few places to stay in Rainbow Beach, many of which offer great value stays. Here are my suggestions:

• Freedom Hostels (formerly Dingos) – from £26 per night
• Pippie’s Beach House – from £77 per night
• Rainbow Ocean Palms Resort – from £110 per night

K’gari Island

K’gari Island, previously referred to as Fraser Island, is one of the most popular things to do in Australia. Most tours here are typically aimed at a young backpacking crowd and last 2 days/1night or 3 days/2 nights. There are several other options, including day trips too but as the world’s largest sand island, there’s something special about staying overnight if you can. Unless you have a 4WD drive and significant experience driving on sand, you won’t be able to take your own car to K’gari Island. Several tours however let tourists drive the company’s 4WD vehicles though on what they call a ‘tag along’ basis .

If you book an overnight K’gari Island tour you will have a briefing the evening before departure at 6pm, so you’ll always need to stay the night before in Rainbow Beach. You may also want another night in the town once you come back from K’gari so you don’t have to rush straight off. However it’s worth nothing that you can also start a K’gari Island from trip from Noosa or Hervey, if you prefer.

K’gari Island is a bucket list activity in Australia and for good reason. For many people, K’gari Island is the highlight of their Australia trip!

You definitely should book your K’gari Island tour in advance. Do not leave it for on arrival in Rainbow Beach/Hervey Bay/Noosa, unless you’re arriving several days in advance (at least).

These are the best K’gari Island tours:

• Full day Fraser Island tour from Rainbow Beach (£125pp)
• 2 day/1 night tour from Rainbow Beach (£218pp)

Best things to do on Fraser Island

• If you’re over 21 and on a tag-along tour, you’ll have the opportunity to drive the 4WD along the sand, which is epic
• Swim in the crystal clear freshwater Lake Mackenzie
• Bathe in the beautiful Champagne Pools
• Drift along the natural lazy river at Ely Creek
• Explore the tropical rainforest
• Spot dingos (wild dogs) from afar
• If on an overnight tour, spend the evenings around the campfire drinking and relaxing with new friends
• Drive along 75 Mile Beach
• Hike up to Indian Head to spot sharks and stingrays
• Explore the Maheno shipwreck
• Hike to Lake Wobby

If you visit Fraser Island on a one day tour from the mainland, you’ll be able to do most of the above, but at a quicker pace.

• Suggested time for Noosa: 2-4 days (or as long as possible..)
• Driving distance from Rainbow Beach to Noosa: 117km (1hr37)

Noosa is an absolute must-visit on any East Coast road itinerary and is hands down my favourite place in Australia. Whether you’re a backpacker, on honeymoon, a group of friends or a family, Noosa is the perfect place. The town centre is charming with some brilliant shopping, the beaches are phenomenal and the surrounding scenery is just breathtaking. It’s also the place in Australia where I’ve seen the most koalas in the wild.

Best things to do in Noosa

• Explore the magnificent Noosa National Park, which is easily accessed whether on foot from the town centre or if you drive to its entrance and park
• Beach hopping from Noosa Main Beach to the dog-friendly waters at the Noosa Spit and over in Noosaville too
• Get surfing or take part in a surf lesson
• Go on a dolphin-watching safari by kayak , where your chances of seeing dolphins are super high
• Bar hopping along Main Street
• Tucking into some of the town’s best food, including the phenomenal Spanish set menu at 10 Hastings Street
• Kayak through the Noosa Everglades
• Hike nearby Mt Coolumb
• Get stuck into the craft beer scene in Noosa
• Drive to nearby Emundi to go to the popular Farmer’s Market, running Wednesday to Saturday until 1pm or so
• Go hiking in the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains

Most of Noosa’s main attractions revolve around the beautiful beaches, the National park, the surf and the food. It’s pretty easy to see why I love it so much.

Where to stay in Noosa

There are some beautiful places to stay in Noosa, covering all budgets and preferences.

Best luxury hotels: There are some amazing hotels in Noosa. Some of top luxury stays would be Noosa Shores (£350), Netanya or the beautiful Sofitel Pacific Resort (from £158 per night). However, there’s also the more affordable Peppers Resort on the beach (from £92 per night) and Tingirana .

Good value stays: My favourite good value spot is 10 Hastings Street Boutique Motel . It also has one of the best restaurants town downstairs! Rates start from about £60 per night.

Best hostels: Nomads Backpackers is the best spot in town. Dorm rooms start at £37, or a double is £44.

• Suggested time for Brisbane: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Noosa to Brisbane: 141km (1hr44)

Queensland’s big city! Brisbane is a modern metropolis, with year-round warm weather and unique city beaches. I like Brisbane, but not even half as much as Melbourne and Sydney.

It’s probably a great city to live in, but visiting for a couple of days at a time, I have never fallen for Brisbane. However, it does have a fantastic manmade city beach at South Bank where I have spent many hours catching the rays.

I also have to recommend my favourite restaurant in Brisbane, which is New Shanghai located in the Myer Centre on Queen Street. There’s a few of these dotted across Australia, but for me, the Brisbane one is just amazing.

Things to do in Brisbane

Brisbane as a city may not be quite as cosmopolitan and lively as Melbourne and Sydney, but it does happen to make a fantastic base to visit other nearby areas. The winter months are an especially lovely time to visit the city, so make sure to check out this guide to the top things to do in Brisbane in the winter .

For example, if diving is your thing, then there are some impressive shipwrecks at Moreton Island.

You can also visit the famous Australia Zoo near Brisbane , which is of course known for being founded by Steve Irwin himself.

• Take a boat ride along the river onboard a Kookaburra River Queens Cruise, which are old style paddlewheel vessels
• Hike a bike to explore the city or join a guided segway tour
• Spend some time in the city’s magnificent Botanical Gardens
• Join a guided kayak tour along the river
• Visit the city’s impressive collection of museums and art galleries
• Take the river boat to the popular Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on this excellent city tour
• Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island or visit on snorkelling day tour
• Take a day trip to the beautiful Stradbroke or Bribie Islands

Where to stay in Brisbane

Best luxury hotel: W Brisbane is the coolest place to stay, with rooms starting from £127 per night. Another great luxury hotel would be The Westin (from £155 per night).

Great value stay: Royal on the Park is a beautiful hotel, and a steal with rooms starting from £53 per night

Best hostel: Bunk Hostel (dorms from £21) or Base Brisbane (dorms from £11)

Cairns to Brisbane road trip itinerary

So there’s my Australia East Coast road itinerary, covering the Cairns to Brisbane drive. As you can see, this route takes in countless iconic Australian experiences. I would say this is easily one of the best road trips in the world.

For international travellers coming to the end of the trip, Brisbane makes a wise finishing point as it has an international airport.

However, for those flying onto Australian domestic destinations or with more time, then I highly recommend continuing your journey. For example, onto the Gold Coast and Byron Bay where there are domestic airports in both destinations. If you have plenty of extra time, you could do the Brisbane to Sydney drive. Although this is another 1000km and 10hrs driving, the beaches are fantastic. However, as mentioned before, the drive from Byron Bay to Sydney would be quite cool if done in the Australia winter (May to August).

Brisbane to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay

• Driving distance from Brisbane to the Gold Coast: 99km (1hr10)
• Suggested time for the Gold Coast: 1-4 days
• Driving distance from Brisbane to Byron Bay: 166km (1hr50)
• Suggested time for the Byron Bay: 1-4 days
• Driving distance between Gold Coast and Byron Bay: 93km (1hr)

Both Gold Coast and Byron Bay are popular holiday destinations with Australians as well as international travellers. And as mentioned, with domestic airports near both locations, you could potentially also finish your road trip itinerary further south of Brisbane. For example, we finished our road trip from Cairns at Ballina Airport, which is just near Byron Bay. This was really convenient as there were rental companies to return you car or camper van.

Gold Coast and Surfer’s Paradise

Gold Coast is a city made up a dozens of smaller beach areas, with expansive stretches of white sand and some of the best surfing in Australia. This whole area is the most popular tourist place in Australia. It’s like visiting a beach resort town in Florida, USA or a resort in Spain. Gold Coast is where young Australians flock to party and have fun every summer, and there are a lot of bars and activities geared towards this. Surfer’s Paradise is at the heart of all the action but I wouldn’t recommend spending long here, unless partying is something you’re keen to do.

The other beach areas surrounding Surfer’s Paradise are amazing, and a great spot to recoup for a couple of days. In fact, the challenge can be deciding which beach to spend the day at.

Alternatively, Gold Coast is packed with all kinds of tourist attractions, including theme parks like Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld . My personal favourite thing to do in Gold Coast is to visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary . This is a brilliant place to spend a full day. Plus, they have their own wildlife hospital with huge glass windows so you can see all kinds of animals being operated on. On the day we went, I saw birds, tortoises and koalas being treated!

Best things to do in Gold Coast

• Go hiking in nearby Tamborine Mountain or get your adrenaline pumping at the high ropes course
• Or why not visit Mt Tamborine and stop by the beautiful wineries and distilleries on this tour with lunch
• Explore Springbrook National Park and swim in the refreshing waterfalls
• Meet some of Australia’s most unique wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Head to the farmer’s markets at different beaches – my favourite is at Burleigh
• Rent bikes and cycle from one point to another, for example Burleigh Heads to Mermaid Beach
• Explore the stunning waterways of Coolangatta
• Join a surf lesson in Surfer’s Paradise
• Visit the World-Heritage Listed Lamington National Park and explore the beautiful waterfalls and landscape
• Check out the incredible views from the Sky Point Observation Deck

Where to stay in the Gold Coast

There is a seriously huge amount of places to stay in the Gold Coast. It’s hard to even know where to start.

If you are looking to get stuck into the nightlife, then you could stay right in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise .

Otherwise, I recommend picking a beachside community for a couple of days such as Burleigh or Coolangatta . Due to the sheer number of hotels and places to stay in the Gold Coast, you can definitely find some good value stays!

Check rates for all hotels, lodges and holiday parks in the Gold Coast here.

I’ve stayed in several areas around the Gold Coast, and I particularly love the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort . This resort is beyond stunning, with a huge lagoon beach swimming pool, and access to an amazing health club with golf and tennis.

I could have stayed here for weeks, so I’d say, if there was once place to splurge en route, it would be this resort!

Book your stay at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort here.

There’s a certain magic in the air in Byron Bay that makes so many fall in love with the town. So many travellers arrive for a couple of days, but end up staying for weeks.

The main thing Byron Bay is known for is surfing, but there’s so much going on away from the away from the waves. The town is particularly popular with backpackers who get quickly drawn into Byron Bay’s hippy, bohemian, anything-goes lifestyle. But there’s increasing appeal for honeymooners, families and even those looking for a spot of luxury.

Best things to do in Byron Bay

• Hit the waves, or take the chance to learn to surf
• Beach hop – as well as the main beach, visit Clarks Beach, Tallow Beach, Belongil Beach and The Pass
• Go dolphin-spotting from your kayak
• Hike to the Cape Byron lighthouse, the most eastern point in Australia
• Visit one of the many local markets, for example the Byron Bay Artisan Market (every Saturday evening from October to March)
• Enjoy live music at one of the awesome bars
• Shop at some the wonderful unique boutique stores
• Stop for happy hour at some of the excellent cafes
• Explore the craft beer scene in Byron Bay
• Experience a scenic hot air balloon journey over Byron Bay
• Get up and close personal with the elusive platypus a nature walk with a local guide
• Take a day trip to nearby Nimbin, a small hippie town stuck in the 60s which is famous for its very liberal attitude towards marijuana. There’s an iconic bus tour which you can book onto.
• Dance the night away with local musicians performing on Main Beach
• Explore the beautiful Nightcap National Park with waterfalls and great hiking routes
• Go hiking along the trails in the Arakwal National Park, followed by a swim in the ocean
• Have a delicious dinner at The Roadhouse , just on the edge of town
• Drive to Byron Bay Farm for day surrounded by farm animals, and for some seriously delicious food

Where to stay in Byron Bay

Best luxury hotel: Far and away, the most opulent hotel is Elements of Byron Resort & Spa . It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends and honeymooners. Rates start from around £245 per night, per villa.

Other great upscale stays include Atlantic Byron Bay (from £130 per night), Azur Villas (from £142 per night), The Bower Byron Bay (from £151 per night).

Great value stays: Bayhaven Lodge (from £71 per night) or Byron Palms (from £70 per night)

Best hostels: There are plenty of hostels in Byron Bay, as it’s so popular with backpackers and Australians visiting for ‘schoolies week’. There is the Byron Bay YHA , Nomads and Wake Up! all with similar rates for double rooms and dorm rooms (around £33 per night).

Finally, I couldn’t not mention the iconic Arts Factory Lodge . Located just outside of town in a beautiful forested area, this a mammoth campground, lodge and artsy bohemian stay all in one.

We chose to stay here with our camper van which was great – it has a pool, on-site cafes and bars, and even things like didgeridoo lessons! A dorm bed here is around £14 per night, and a double room around £68 per night.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So that rounds out my super long and very detailed itinerary guide for an East Coast Australia road trip.

I really hope this is useful for you if you’re planning a trip to the beautiful East Coast of Australia. As you can see, there is literally so much to do, particularly on the Cairns to Brisbane stretch. And as I said, you can do the highlights in two weeks, but the longer you have, the more you’ll be able to take in and soak up. Ideally, a month to 6 weeks would be the best for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

If you enjoyed my Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide, then please do consider sharing through one of the below links, that would be amazing. Also, if there’s anything else I can share or answer for you, please do let me know in the comments below.

For further Australia guides, please do check out my other guides:

• Visiting the Whitsunday Islands
• Noosa Travel Guide
• Best day trips from Cairns
• Cairns to Cape Tribulation road trip
• Taking the Ghan train from Darwin to Alice Springs

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide is based on multiple visits to Australi a . There was no involvement from any local companies or the tourist board . However icelolly.com arranged two local tours on the East Coast: dolphin watching in Noosa and entry to Currumbin Wildlife Park.

Enjoyed my guide to an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary? Pin it!

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Cairns to cape tribulation & the daintree …, new zealand travel guide: best places …, exploring the australian outback: darwin to …, noosa travel guide: best things to ….

What an incredible resource! Thank you so much! Do you have something similar for New South Wales and Victoria?

Thank you! Unfortunately no! Although I lived in Victoria, I didn’t travel the state as extensively as Queensland 🙁

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• Best Road Trips in Australia for Campervans

Australia Road Trip Planner

18 of the best road trips in australia.

Australia Road Trip Map : Click on the route for a link to the itinerary, or browse below.

East Coast Australia Road Trips

These east coast Australia road trips combine two or more of the above road trips. Itineraries range from 1 to 7 weeks.

Cairns to Airlie Beach Drive 348 km | 7 hrs drive  | 1 - 2 weeks 4 days for the road trip plus 10 days to explore the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Brisbane to Cairns Drive 2, 177 km | 26 hrs drive | 3 - 4 weeks Explore the tropical northern stretch of the East Coast. 11 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree and Port Douglas. 

Melbourne to Brisbane Drive 2,930 km | 54 hrs drive | 5 weeks 28 days for the road trip, plus 6 days to explore Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

Sydney to Cairns Drive 3,487 km | 55 hrs drive  | 5 weeks Nearly all of the east coast. 26 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns. 

Melbourne to Cairns Drive 4,787 km | 55 hrs drive | 6 - 7 weeks Explore the entire East Coast of Australia from end to end. 30 - 40 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns.

Road Trip Around Australia

We have three key routes for a road trip around Australia. 

• The first route is a simple circumnavigation of the continent, but this misses the important central desert region with Uluru, the Olgas and Coober Pedy. 
• The second route includes central Australia and can either start in Cairns and end in Adelaide, or start in Adelaide and end in Cairns. 
• The third route builds upon the second route by looping in Broken Hill, Mungo National Park and rural New South Wales. Its start and end points are Cairns and Sydney.

Road Trips by State

• NEW SOUTH WALES
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• NORTHERN TERRITORY

Driving in Australia

Australia is larger than you might think - as large as the USA without Alaska and three quarters the size of Europe. It is also extremely diverse with everything from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the outback desert and rolling green pastures. If you jet set from city to city, you'll miss all this.

The best (and cheapest) way to experience Australia is to hire a campervan and take a road trip. That way you have the freedom to can set your own itinerary, be spontaneous, take the road less travelled, and stop where you want for as long as you want.

With a kitchen in the back seat, you can pull into a stunning location, make lunch and soak in the views. It's the most convenient, affordable and memorable way to dine. And at the end of an adventure-filled day, your home is where ever you park it. 

You will soon discover the camaraderie of the campervan community - kindred spirits who like to get off the beaten path, who appreciate the beauty of Australia, and are eager to share a few tips and their favorite camping locations with you. As Edith Wharton once said  "One of the great things about travel is you discover how many good, kind people there are."

In this Road Trip Planner we detail some of the best road trips in Australia to help you plan your campervan self-drive itinerary.

• Cairns day trips
• Atherton Tablelands & Wooroonooran National Park
• Kuranda and Barron Falls
• Cairns to Hinchinbrook Is.
• Cairns to Cooktown
• Cairns to Townsville  
• Townsville day trips
• Townsville to Cairns
• Townsville to Airlie Beach
• Queensland Outback  (Townsville - Cunnamulla - Brisbane)
• Airlie Beach to Townsville  (and Cairns)
• Airlie Beach to Brisbane  (and Gold Coast)
• Brisbane to Gold Coast
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Gold Coast day trips
• Brisbane day trips

New South Wales

• Sydney's National Parks
• Sydney's Top Walks
• Hunter Valley wine region
• Central Coast
• Port Stephens
• Blue Mountains
• South Coast
• Southern Highlands
• The Snowy Mountains
• Sydney - Melbourne Coast
• Sydney - Canberra - Melbourne
• Sydney - Gold Coast
• Broken Hill
• Canberra 
• Grampians | Murray River
• Great Ocean Road
• Mornington Pensinsula
• Phillip Island
• Wilsons Promontory
• Victorian Alps | High Plains
• Yarra Valley | Dandenongs
• Melbourne - Sydney coast
• Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney
• Melbourne - Adelaide

South Australia

• Barossa Valley wines
• Murray River
• Kangaroo Island
• Mt. Gambier
• Coonawarra wine & Naracoorte Caves
• Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
• Adelaide Hills Activities 
• Fleurieu Peninsula & Coorong
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Outback: Adelaide to Sydney
• Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip
• Adelaide to Perth Road Trip
• Coober Pedy
• Eyre Peninsula

Western Australia

• 3 days in Perth - things to do
• The Perfect WA Roadtrip (South of Perth)
• Yanchep National Park
• Pinnacles Desert
• Bunbury and Busselton
• Margaret River
• Pemberton Forests
• The Kimberley - Broome to Darwin in 6 days
• Broome to Perth in 19 days
• Perth to Adelaide in 16 days

Northern Territory

• Litchfield National Park
• The Pilbara
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)
• Mataranka Hot Springs
• Alice Springs
• Uluru and the Olgas
• Macdonnell Ranges

Other Blogs & Relevant Information

• Driving Distances and Petrol Prices
• Oz Parks Australia's Newest National Caravan & Tourist Park Chain
• Top Islands to visit in Australia
• Top Australian cultural experiences
• Top Australian animal experiences
• 7 reasons why Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia
• 10 movie locations to visit in Australia

Itineraries

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Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

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• Accommodation

Planning a one week road trip in Queensland, Australia

We try to visit Australia at least once a year to spend some quality time with Vid’s nieces! And every time we are there, we try to explore at least one new place since the continent has so much to offer! But, since the first time we went to Queensland, a couple of years ago, we’ve been going back to explore little corners of the state as often as we can – it is one of our favourite states and we can never get enough.

Queensland is huge and it would be no hyperbole to say it is truly the State of endless wonders! But if you have just one week and you want to plan an epic road trip in Queensland to sample lots of different things – the rainforest, vineyards, stunning beaches, hipster hotels, urban cafés, and that incomparable Australian vibe – then here’s what we suggest:

Day 1 Fly to Brisbane & pick up your rental car

Brisbane is well connected to most major cities all around the world. We flew from New Delhi with Malaysia Airlines – an extremely convenient flight which included a short stop over in Kuala Lumpur. I’m not a big fan of airplane food but Malaysia Airlines serves some of the best food in their flights. Do try it out. And if you’re flying Business Class, then you must try their satays or noodle soups. It will transport you to bustling Asian food markets. The service, as in all our previous flights with Malaysia Airlines, was all-smiles and impeccable.

View this post on Instagram Coz there is nothing quite like the combination of books, scrumptious meals, and adventures with you; somewhere over the clouds ??? ✨ It’s always such a pleasure to fly @malaysiaairlines because they have THE yummiest food on-board (cue noodle soups and satay ??) but today was exceptional because I was running a temperature and the stewardess looked after me like a family member would – such great service. Kindness makes the world go round! ☺️? Feeling all rested now and super-excited to be going back to Australia for a fun project with @Queensland – can’t wait to take you along ✈️?? ✨ ✨ #bruisedpassports #flugoaway #MalaysiaAirlines #MalaysianHospitality #travel #australia A post shared by Travel & love : Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Aug 17, 2019 at 9:57pm PDT

Renting a car at Brisbane Airport

Once you’re in Brisbane, you can pick your rental car. A quick tip – you can also pick the car on Day 3 as you will be walking to most places in Brisbane. However we would recommend picking the car on Day 1 itself if you’re getting a good weekly rate for the rental and your hotel offers free parking.

As for rental companies, you will find booths for most major companies at Brisbane Airport. We always recommend pre-booking a car using a price comparison website like Kayak to get the best price! This is much cheaper than picking a car upon arriving at the airport.

Accommodation in Brisbane

Brisbane has a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets. There are some great Air BnBs in the area if you’re on a budget. Apartments are also ideal if you want access to a kitchen or you’re travelling with a large family.

If you’re keen on a hotel, The Calile is a favourite of ours. It’s one of the most unique hotels we’ve stayed at. Its pale-pink interior is bound to transport you to California one minute, Morocco the next. Everything from the subdued golden fittings to the vintage mini-bar is so aesthetically pleasing that you will want to photograph your room time and again. Reserve a few hours for the hotel’s now iconic pool and make sure you don’t miss breakfast at all – the fresh produce, gourmet granola, and coffee will ensure you ask for seconds.

Days 2 & 3 Explore Brisbane

Brisbane is truly one of the most exciting cities in Australia. That’s because it’s good at being both laid-back and trendy at the same time. It’s not large or overwhelming. And yet there is no dearth of things to do.

We suggest keeping aside at least 2-3 days to explore Brisbane. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Brisbane:

Take a Walking Tour

On your first morning in Brisbane, take some time to walk around the centre. You could take a free walking tour or a guided tour with Walk Brisbane . Spend the morning introducing yourself to Brisbane’s major landmarks and its exciting art scene. There are so many fascinating museums such as the Gallery of Modern Art but we loved the street art and sculptures that can be seen in little laneways in Brisbane.

Picnic with a view

Brisbane boasts of some epic sunsets. And Kangaroo Point and Mount Coot-tha are two of our favourite places to enjoy them. But if you want to take your sunset experience up a notch, why not picnic to a view of Brisbane’s skyline. You could pick yourself picnic supplies from the supermarket. But if you’re celebrating a special occasion and want a truly memorable experience, you could also book one with the Vintage Picnic Company . Their set-ups seems like they’ve crawled out of pinterest- expect twinkling lights, rustic rugs, picnic baskets, and lots of incredible food. We opted for a grazing platter (yummy!) but you could also opt for a 3 course meal.

Go Kayaking …. at night

For the adventurous souls, we would highly recommend a bout of Night Kayaking at Brisbane River. Riverlife Brisbane organise this unique tour. We have been kayaking before but this was our first time kayaking at night and we thoroughly enjoyed it. I was a bit worried about kayaking in the dark, but their guide was with us every step of the way, so all worries went out of the window. We had a great time and finished it off with a BBQ dinner by the river.

Eat to your heart’s content

There is no dearth of trendy cafés and bars in Brisbane. In fact you will find some of the world’s best coffee and fresh food here. But if there is one culinary experience we recommend it’s Eat Street . It is like nothing you would’ve experienced before – a bustling food market with live music and rides. It is reminiscent of vintage fairs but what makes it stand out is the sheer quality of the food. Everything we tried – from the steamed dumplings and nutella ice-cream to the popcorn and tacos was top notch! Eat Street is open only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Do check it out if you happen to be in Brisbane for the weekend. If you’re there during the week, then Tuckshop time in Woolloongabba is a cute option for brunch.

Day 4 Go for an adventure in the rainforest

Once you’ve enjoyed Brisbane, it is time to drive far away from the city lights, to the rainforest. An easy 3 hour drive will take you to Lamington National Park. The hinterland is one of Australia’s most unique offerings and you have to experience it for yourself.

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is one of the very few accommodation options in the area. The rooms here tend to be a bit dated but the atmosphere is unparalleled. From the second you check-in, you are bound to feel at peace. There is a lot to do in the area surrounding O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. You can go for guided bird walks. You could hike to one of the many waterfalls in the area. Or you could just spend your night star-gazing with your family.

Day 5 Enjoy Queensland’s vineyards

Chances are the hikes around the hotel will leave your muscles feeling a bit sore. So take a day to unwind and relax by exploring the neighbouring vineyards. There are plenty of vineyards in the area and you can choose any you want, but O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat offers some great wine-tasting sessions and packed picnics at their Canungra Valley Vineyards. Taste some wines, pick up a bottle if you’d like and spend a slow afternoon eating and drinking under the trees. There’s a nice stream at Canungra Valley Vineyards, that makes for the perfect picnic spot.

Day 6 Drive to the iconic Gold Coast

Once you’re all rested, it’s time to continue the road trip by driving to the iconic Gold Coast to get your beach fix. The drive is only 2 hours long, so you will have all of Day 6 to explore the area as well. From scenic points of view to water parks, there is so much to do in the area, so we would recommend spending at least 2-3 days here.

Accommodation in the Gold Coast area

There is plenty of accommodation to choose from. Avani Broadbeach offers luxurious and spacious apartments with great views of the ocean. If you choose to stay here, make sure you request for an apartment with a view. Hilton Surfers Paradise is also a good choice – they have both hotel rooms and apartments but their apartments have better views of the ocean.

If classic luxury is not your thing and you’re a fan of trendier accommodation, we highly recommend checking out Pink Hotel . It is located in one of Gold Coast’s coolest suburbs, Coolangatta and it’s retro-chic vibe will have you swooning within minutes. From vinyl players and neon signs to pink falls and flamingoes on bathrobes, you’ll find it all here. A hipster gem this!

Days 6&7 Explore, hike, and unwind at the beach

There are so many things to do in this area that even 2 weeks would not be enough. Here are some of our absolute favourites – you can pick and choose a few based on your preferences:

• Let’s start with food (of course!). There are some great cafés and bistros in the area but we would highly recommend dropping by ELK Espresso or MLK Broadbeach for brunch. If you drop by MLK, do try their sumptuous Avocado Toast, Eggs Benedict, and Acai Bowls. Both cafés also serve some of the best coffee you would’ve had, anywhere in the world (that’s a big claim coming from a coffee geek, but it’s true)

• If you’re travelling with kids or friends, then head to Gold Coast’s amusement parks – both Dreamworld and WhiteWater World have dozens of rides, food stalls, and entertainment, enough for a jam-packed day of fun.

• Kids also love the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary , where visitors can feed kangaroos and see koalas at close quarters

• If you enjoy hikes or photography, we’d highly recommend heading to Burleigh Heads . The beach is beautiful and really popular with locals. But a short hike will lead you to the Tumgun Viewpoint that offers a stunning view of the ocean.

• If you want to relax at a beach, then Miami and Currumbin Beach are great options. The Currumbin Rock Pools are a bit of a local secret and great on a sunny day! Tallebudgera Creek, Snapper Rocks, and Greenmount Beach are some gems, if you intend to spend a lot of time by the water. Tip: You MUST watch sunrise from any of these beaches – trust us, it’s an experience in itself!

• You could also hop on a whale-watching cruise with Sea World Cruises if you have an afternoon to spare (and if it’s whale watching season :)). We did this and it must’ve been our lucky day because we saw dozens of whales and dolphins playing in the water.

• For something more romantic, we would recommend booking a sunset yacht cruise with Crystal Blue Yacht Charters. It is an incredible feeling to watch the sun go down over Gold Coast as you sip on champagne. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or in the mood for a splurge, you can also book a private yacht cruise for 2 people.

• If you’re looking for a special place for dinner and enjoy sea-food, then Baskk is a great option. Everything from the cocktail menu to the main courses is an experience in itself. Make sure you dress up and make a night out of it. Its laid-back, it’s chic, and it’s memorable. Baskk is a recent addition to the achingly-cool Coolangatta, but its in a league entirely its own.

Day 8 Return your car and fly back

It’s that dreaded day – time for your day trip to come to an end. Return your car and Brisbane airport and prepare to fly back to your home country. We hope your mind is swimming with images of Queensland’s gorgeous hinterland, golden sunrises, powdery beaches, scenic hikes, and scrumptious meals. Queensland is often described as a living postcard and we hope this short road trip will help you see why!

We’ve tried to include all the details you might need to plan an amazing road trip in Queensland but if you have any questions leave them down below. This is the perfect road trip if you like a bit of adventure, gorgeous drives, and some time at stunning beaches with incredible food all along. We also have some amazing suggestions for other road trips around the world 🙂

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13 thoughts on “ planning a one week road trip in queensland, australia ”.

Nice guide and quite complete, I would like to know if you can wear all kinds of clothes, as I had read a little about the climate of this destination.

Hey Allisson – If you visit during shoulder season, as we did, then we’d recommend summer clothes but also 1 light jacket as evenings and mornings can get a bit nippy 🙂

It really looks like a beautiful place to visit. thank you for the idea!

So happy you enjoyed reading Melanie 🙂

Hey Savi…amazing itinery for a week!! But can u please let me know the best time for visiting? Nd may be an approx cost for two?

We would say July – September is a great time to visit as it starts getting quite hot after that. In terms of cost, it can vary significantly depending on where you stay and where you eat, but say if you are staying in an AirBnB, and renting a car, you could be looking at around 350-400 AUD per day for two assuming you won’t be eating at fancy restaurants at every meal 🙂

If you have the time, I would definitely recommend north Queensland. It’s much more off of the beaten track, an insight into the old and true Straya. Plus it was all the amazing wildlife that Oz has to offer like Cassawarys, Emus and tree Roos 🙂

Hey, would you have any tips or suggestions for an off beat drive or experience in Gold Coast? We live in Melbourne and have experienced Australia’s glorious beaches at the Great Ocean Road and around Sydney so I am interested to know if there are any other spots/ activities you would recommend around Gold Coast. Thanks.

Hey, would you have any tips or suggestions for an off beat drive or experience in Gold Coast? We live in Melbourne and have experienced Australia’s glorious beaches at the Great Ocean Road , the Whitsundays and around Sydney so I am interested to know if there are any other spots/ activities you would recommend around Gold Coast. Thanks.

Hey Dishita,

Yes, you can drive to Lamington National Park (Hinterland) and spend a couple of nights there. Please refer to Day 4 in this article.

Heyy, how much did your total trip cost ?? and is December good time to go ??

Hey Monika – the cost depends vastly on where you are flying from and the hotels you pick. It can get hot but December is a good time to go- do rememeber to carry your sunscreen as its peak summer in Australia

Have you planned a trip like ZNMD?

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Best of South West WA: One Week Road Trip Itinerary

When visiting Perth, exploring the South West of Australia is a must. The region has spectacular natural attractions, stunning coastal scenery and delightful food and wine. A road trip through the region is a great way to experience the best of Western Australia.

It’s a popular road trip from Perth, for both tourists and locals alike. You’ll hear us locals refer to it as a road trip “down south.”

It’s important to plan your route carefully, to make sure you maximise the time spent seeing the main attractions in the region, without finding yourself constantly on the road driving to the next spot.

To make life easier, in this guide I’ll step you through a suggested one week itinerary for a Southern Western Australia road trip.

Table of Contents

Best Time for a South West WA Road Trip

This one week south west Australia itinerary can be done at anytime of the year.

Winters (June – August) in the South West can be cold and rainy (usually more so than Perth). But there are also many sunny but mild days – which come without as many people as you might get in summer!

For the best weather for exploring many of the region’s beaches, late spring to early Autumn (November – April) would be the ideal time of the year to road trip south western Australia.

Mid December to late January are the busiest months, thanks to the warm weather and coinciding with the busy Australian school holidays. Make sure to book accommodation well in advance if visiting during this period!

During the cooler months from May to October, another Western Australia 1 week itinerary could be a Perth to Kalbarri or (slightly longer) Perth to Exmouth road trip.

If you’re spending some time in Perth before starting your road trip, make sure to check out my fun 3, 5 and 7-day Perth itineraries to make planning a breeze!

About this South Western Australia 7-Day Itinerary

Departing from Perth, exploring the whole region in one week is do-able but will require some driving.

We based ourselves in three towns over six nights to ensure we had a full day of exploring in each area.

This South Western Australia 7 day itinerary is ideal for those who want to see the key attractions and sights in the region in just a week. If you do have a few extra days, I would spend them exploring the Margaret River Region.

Distances & Driving Times South West WA

• Perth to Yallingup: 260km, ~3 hours (if driving to Margaret River, allow 3.5 hours)
• Yallingup to Denmark: 345km, ~4 hours
• Denmark to Albany: 55km, ~40 minutes
• Albany to Perth: 420km, ~5 hours

Getting Around

You will need a car for this road trip – public transport is very limited (or non existent!) in many of the towns you’ll be visiting.

You should hire a rental car in Perth, as there will be the largest range of options and availability.

I recommend using Discover Cars – this highly-rated car aggregator offer the best prices across a large range of suppliers, plus the flexibility of free cancellation.

Compare car rental prices and get the best deal here.

A 4WD vehicle is not required for this road trip, you will spend most of your time on sealed roads. There may be the occasional gravel road in some of the National Parks, but they are 2WD suitable.

South West Australia Road Trip Map

Click below for an interactive map of this suggested South Western Australia road trip itinerary.

Day 1: Perth to Margaret River

It’s road trip time! Get ready to commence the round trip on this South WA road trip itinerary, departing from Perth.

To make the most of your day, set off from Perth early to start the 3 hour drive south to the Margaret River Region.

It is an easy drive down the highway, mostly going at 110 km/h until you reach Busselton.

You could visit Black Diamond Lake or Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley on the way to Margaret River

It’s worth stopping Busselton to check out the heritage listed Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere. Walk or take a train ride out to the end of the jetty, where an underwater observatory awaits.

Grab a bite to eat in town (Shelter Brewery, in front of the jetty is a personal fave!), or continue on the 30-40 minutes to reach your destination, Yallingup or Margaret River.

TIP: Busselton or Dunsborough are good stops for groceries to pick up snacks and dinner supplies for the next few days.

After your long drive, you probably don’t want to spend too much more time in your car!

If staying in Yallingup, go for a walk down to Yallingup Beach. This sheltered lagoon that makes for the perfect swimming and snorkelling spot.  

Visit a Cave in Australia’s South West

If you have time and are feeling adventurous, check out one of the acclaimed caves in Margaret River.

Here’s a brief summary of what to expect from each of the caves. Please note some of these are self-guided, semi-guided or fully guided, depending on the cave.

Hence bookings are strongly recommended as they do sell out.

• Ngilgi Cave:  this cave offers  semi-guided tours  leading you through its distinct aspects, including awe-inspiring stalactites hanging overhead and secret nooks to crawl through and explore.
• Mammoth Cave:  immerse yourself in a  self-guided tour  showcasing the cave’s vast chambers while you learn its rich history through an informative audio guide.
• Lake Cave:  this cave has a permanent underground lake with a distinctive stalactite and stalagmite formation joining to meet in the middle.  Guided tours  are provided to access this remarkable attraction.
• Jewel Cave:  Situated near Augusta, join the  guided tour  of three large caverns displaying mesmerizing flowstone resembling frozen waterfalls.

It’s hard to pick a favourite, but if I had to choose just one to visit,  Lake Cave  would be my recommendation.

For sunset, check out the iconic Sugarloaf Rock or kick back at your accommodation to watch the sun go down with a glass of wine in hand.

Where to Stay in the Margaret River Region

In the Margaret River region, the main towns are Dunsborough, Yallingup and Margaret River town. There is a wide range of available accomodation in these towns and the surrounding areas.

Dunsborough is on the west coast, with a shopping complex including a supermarket and lots of residential houses. A 10 minute drive away is Yallingup , a small beachfront town with houses nestled onto a hill with sweeping coastal views.

Margaret River is slightly further south and inland, and has a main strip with cafes, boutiques and a supermarket.

Accommodation options in each town range from hotels/ motels, B&Bs, villas, serviced apartments, AirBnBs and campgrounds.

Margaret River has the largest range of accommodation, but is slightly further (5-10 minutes drive) from the beach.

If you are struggle to find available or cheap accommodation, also consider staying in Busselton and driving a bit further to the main sights in the Margaret River Region each day.

Dunsborough & Yallingup

• Budget – Lanterns Retreats Quaint accommodation in the heart of Dunsborough, and a 10-minute walk away from the beach
• Mid-Range – Club Wyndham Resort Dunsborough With a beach right on your doorstep, you might not even want to use the pool in this resort with immaculate gardens! Also has an on-site restaurant with outdoor patio.
• Luxury – Pullman Bunker Bay Resort You can’t beat the location of this beachfront resort with pool overlooking the tranquil Bunker Bay. This luxury resort has an award-winning spa and each villa comes with a kitchen.
• Best for Families – Seashells Yallingup I’ve stayed here multiple times and love the self-contained apartments. You can walk to Yallingup Lagoon and the property is right next door to Caves House hotel which has live music on weekends.
• Boutique – Barn Hives Yallingup Cute eco pods located in the middle of a vineyard! Only a 5 minute drive from Canal Rocks.

Margaret River & Surrounds

• Budget – Margaret River Resort Older style resort, but a great location 10 minutes from the center of Margaret River town.
• Mid-Range – Riverglen Chalets Chalets nestled in the middle of the forest, but still only a 10 minute walk from Margaret River town.
• Luxury – Burnside Organic Farm I was lucky enough to have a tour of this beautiful property, and their luxury chalets look stunning! They even have outdoor bathtubs.
• Best for Families – The Villa Margaret River I’ve stayed at this beautiful light-filled 3 bedroom villa, located in the middle of town and walking distance to the best Margaret River cafes.
• Glamping – Olio Bello Lakeside Glamping Luxurious, unique lakeside glamping on an olive farm in the heart of the Margaret River Region

Day 2: Exploring the Margaret River Region

Start the day with a coffee from the Yallingup General Store to fuel you for a busy day of exploring ahead.

Dunsborough Beaches

Head to Meelup Beach near Dunsborough to check out the long stretch of protected, calm beach. This popular spot also has SUP and Kayak hire during the summer months. There are BBQ facilities for those wanting to spend the day here.

For those wanting to avoid the crowds, Castle Rock Beach is only 5-10 minutes drive away and is equally (if not more) stunning as Meelup Beach.

Injidup Natural Spa

It wouldn’t be a visit to Yallingup unless you checked out the popular Injidup Natural Spa! Located at the end of Wydaup Rd , the natural spa is created by waves overflowing rocks into the pool.

Warning: Be very careful of the strong tides and waves that can occur here. Unfortunately, lives have been lost. You can read more about visiting this unique natural attraction in my guide here .

Another spectacular swimming spot nearby is the Natural Aquarium. This requires a short hike, which you can read about in my guide here .

After a morning of sand and sun, spend the afternoon wining and dining at one of the many wineries or breweries in the region.

Looking for more things to do in the Margaret River Region? Check out my detailed guide with 35 ideas for things to do here !

Wineries of Margaret River & Yallingup

Is it a trip to the South West of WA without a visit to at least a winery or two?

Some of my personal favourites are:

• Windance Estate : one of the first wineries you’ll come across on Caves Rd as you set off from Yallingup. Windance is a small family own and run vineyard with a stellar line up of wines. When we first came here a few years ago tastings were done in a little tin shed. These days they have a beautiful open farmhouse style cellar door with sweeping views across the vineyard. They have a beautiful range of rich reds, and we always leave with at least a few bottles!
• Stormflower Vineyard : One of the region’s certified organic wineries! Stormflower has the cutest cellar door set in a thriving garden where you can have your wine tasting outside. The Sauvignon Blanc is our pick.
• Xanadu Wines : driving through the sweeping estate near Margaret River town, this winery impresses on first entrance and then later again when trying their wines. Our favourites are the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Voyager Estate : Highly acclaimed as one of the oldest wineries in the region, Voyager Estate certainly lives up to the hype. Come here for a (paid) wine tasting or a degustation in their restaurant. You can learn more about the wine-making history of the region as you taste prized Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines with a paired wine flight and cheese tasting. Enquire here about availability . Make sure to check out the beautiful estate gardens too before leaving.

Leave the car at home and book onto a local wine tour to make the most of a day exploring and sampling at the amazing wineries in the region.

Recommended Margaret River Wine Tours

• Margies Big Day Out Beer & Wine Tours : go on a gastronomic adventure on this full-day tour with a food-loving guide. Visit three wineries, two breweries and sample chocolates and cheese. Includes pickup and drop-off from accommodations around Margaret River.
• Margaret River Wine Adventure : One for the wine lovers and aficionados. This small-group tour begins with a visit to 3 award-winning boutique wineries, before getting hands-on in an exclusive Wine Blending experience. Create your own wine to enjoy with lunch! The day ends with a visit to a local brewery and the chocolate factory. Pick up available from  Margaret River , or from  Dunsborough/Busselton

There are so many options for local craft breweries these days in the Margaret River Region.

Some of our favourites include Wild Hop (Yallingup), Beer Farm (Metricup) and Eagle Bay Brewing (Eagel Bay).

Go for a Hike

If the weather is suitable, I’d also highly recommend hiking a section of the Cape to Cape track. The “access for more” trail starting at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Sugarloaf Rock is a gentle paved trail with stunning ocean views! Another scenic hike is the trail to reach Quinningup Falls , one of Margaret River’s waterfalls.

Boranup Karri Forest & Viewpoint

While you are on Caves Rd make sure you check out the Boranup Forest Viewpoint.

The Boranup forest of towering Karri trees is located about 25 minutes south of Margaret River. There is an area to park and take in the forest in all its peaceful glory.

Alternatively, take the Boranup Drive tourist drive along an unsealed road which is located in a loop off Caves Rd.

Visit Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

At the end of 2022, the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse reopened after being renovated for the last few years. Cape Leeuwin takes the title of tallest lighthouse of mainland Australia, and watches over the point where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.

Cape Leeuwin is near the town of Augusta, 30 minutes south from Margaret River.

You can join a 30-minute guided tour to the top of the tower for a spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding coastline.

Go Whale Watching

Between late May and August, it’s not uncommon to see whales splashing in the distance as you explore the coast. For an up close and personal view of these majestic creatures, join a whale watching tour.

Tours run from Busselton, Dunsborough and Augusta. Check prices and availability here .

Day 3: Margaret River to Denmark

There are quite a few towns you could visit in the Southern Forests region between Yallingup and Denmark. I’d recommend stopping by at least two to break up the 4-hour drive.

Our first stop was Barrabup Pool, located near the quaint town of Nannup. This natural pool was a great place to stop for a snack and a quick dip, or for a walk along the nearby forest trail.

We then set off for the small town of Pemberton, about an hour’s drive away.

Other quaint country towns to stop by at include Bridgetown and Manjimup.

Pemberton is a quaint town with a few different attractions, making it a great place to stop for a few hours or spend a night or two here.

Pemberton is a great lunch stop. On the main street you have the bakery, Source Kitchen and Wild At Heart Cafe which are all great options.

One of Pemberton’s main attractions is the Gloucester Tree, an old fire lookout tree from the 1940s.

Standing over 53 metres tall, visitors can climb to the top of the tree and experience the views from the lookout on top. Note there are no safety harnesses, so it’s definitely not one for the faint hearted!

As the Gloucester tree is located in a National Park, you’ll need to pay a fee to enter or use a National Parks Pass .

If it’s warm, check out the beautiful man made swimming pool nestled next to the forest. It’s one of my favourite Unique Swimmings Spots in Western Australia.

Beedalup Falls

Jumping back into the car, drive 20 minutes to the nearby Beedalup Falls. Again, a national park ticket is required so keep your day ticket from your earlier visit to the Gloucester Tree.

The Falls feature a short walking trail which allows you to do a loop around the falls and across a suspension bridge. You can take a longer hike and visit the unique Walk Through Tree too!

If you have time up your sleeve, you could spend a night in Pemberton or the beautiful Karri Valley Resort just 20 minutes away.

Where to Stay in Denmark

Continue on your south west Western Australia road trip with a 2.5 hour drive into Denmark.

Denmark is so beautiful, with so much to do and see! If you are arriving during the week, I would recommend to plan cooking some dinners as there isn’t as many restaurants open mid-week, compared to the weekend.

Denmark accommodation is mostly chalet and self contained holiday units, some highly rated options are included below.

• Budget – Koorabup Motel A short drive from Denmark town centre with comfortable and spacious rooms.
• Mid-Range – Karri Aura  Clean and cosy units with kitchenettes and scenic views
• Luxury – Chimes Spa Retreat An adults only retreat with stylish suites. Treat yourself to a spa bath after completing the challenging Bluff Knoll hike!
• Best for Families – William Bay Cottages A range of cottages with full kitchen. Close to Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks too!
• Boutique Luxury Cabin – Upland Farm Luxury accommodation with high end amenities on a sprawling farm (adults only)

Day 4: Exploring Denmark

Start the day with a coffee and checking out the little town of Denmark, located by the river. Our favourite coffee stops are Mrs Jones or Ravens Coffee . The bakery here also has excellent pies if you feel like stocking up for lunch later or a cheeky breakfast pie.

The main attraction in Denmark is the stunning Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. Luckily, both are located in the William Bay National Park (no fee required for entry).

Denmark Wineries

The afternoon in Denmark can be well spent by visiting some of the local wineries. I recommend Rockcliffe, Forest Hill Wines and Singlefile Wines.

Boston Brewing Co is also worth a visit for a beer tasting paddle or meal.

Another great activity near Denmark is the acclaimed Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. Time permitting, visit here to walk amongst the tops of the tall tingle trees.

Other Things to Do in Denmark

• Denmark Animal Farm: pet and feed the range of friendly farm animals, including guinea pigs, alpacas, goats, highland cows, chickens and more!
• Dine at the Lake House Denmark, a picturesque winery situated by the lake.
• Hike Monkey Rock: for a panoramic view across Denmark from the top
• Taste Cheese and Wines: At Duckett Mill Wine and Cheese restaurant
• Try the Range of Ciders at Monkey Rock Cidery

Day 5: Denmark to Albany

Today is your shortest day of driving, with Albany only 45 minutes from Denmark. Start the morning with a trip out to scenic Lights Beach off Ocean Beach Rd before hitting the road.

On the way to Albany, I would recommend making the detour through West Cape Howe National Park to visit Shelly Beach and the scenic lookout platform located here .

Just before you reach Albany township you can stop in at Wilson Brewing for a craft beer and lunch stop. The portion sizes here were massive, with food made and served out of the built in food truck at the brewery.

Where to Stay in Albany

During our time in Albany, we stayed at the cutest accommodation, Jeffries Cottage . This little blue cottage has been beautifully renovated.

Some other options in Albany include:

• Budget – Park Avenue Holiday Unit Harbour front accommodation walking distance to restaurants in town
• Mid-Range – Hilton Garden Inn Australia’s first Hilton Garden Inn hotel, newly opened in 2021.
• Best for Families – Pelicans Albany Middleton Beach Close to Middleton Beach, offering self contained apartments.

After checking in, we jumped back into the car to check out Little Beach in Albany.

Little Beach & Two People’s Bay

I had seen so many photos on Instagram of Little Beach, a south west road trip icon! Particularly famous for the unusual shaped boulders in the middle of the beach. The water was also impossibly turquoise in real life.

Best of all, when we visited in late October in the afternoon we had this beautiful beach almost all to ourselves!

We spent an hour or exploring the beach, taking drone photos and enjoying the views.

While walking along Little Beach, at the end there is a short uphill trail to a hidden beach, Waterfall Beach.

To the left of Little Beach across the boulders there are some rock pools that are worth exploring too.

Cocktails in Albany

Albany has a lot of food and drink options (definitely more than Denmark) at night.

I’d recommend checking out Liberte for a cocktail. The bar is very quirky, with Parisian inspired interiors and the restaurant comes highly recommended.

Day 6: Albany & Torndirrup National Park

Some might be tempted to keep moving through Albany, but I’m glad we decided to spend two nights here!

With another big day ahead, start the morning with coffee from Bred Co . It is then a 20 minute drive from Albany to Torndirrup National Park. This National Park is incredibly varied with lots to see and do here.

Torndirrup National Park

In summary, make sure you visit the key attractions in the park outlined below (a National Park fee is required to be paid once for the day unless you have that Park Pass);

• Salmon Holes beach
• Frenchman Bay beach
• Jimmy Newell’s harbour
• The Gap & Natural Bridge
• Bald Head Trail hike

You can explore the park self-guided, or join a guided tour that includes transport to explore the sights of Torndirrup National Park whilst learning more about this history of these sights.

Albany Wind Farm

After spending a few hours exploring the National Park, head to the Albany Wind Farm.

A free attraction, we were mesmerised by how close we could get to these giant turbines!

There is a short 20 minute walk trail starting at the carpark. Here you can see the turbines up close and learn more about the science behind them.

Great Southern Distillery Visit

On the way back from the wind farm, stop at the nearby Great Southern Distillery .

Enjoy a a whisky tasting (for a small fee) or lunch at the Cellar Door. They also have a gin cellar door back in Margaret River that’s worth checking out too when in town.

National Anzac Centre

Albany is home to the National Anzac Centre . This award-winning museum overlooks the harbour from which over 41,000 men and women departed Australia for World War 1.

After exploring the interactive displays and media at the museum, explore the fortifications and large coastal guns at the heritage listed Princess Royal Fortress, one of Australia’s oldest coastal military sites.

Check ticket prices here.

Other Fun Things to Do in Albany

• Hop Aboard a Scenic Wildlife Cruise : Sail the sheltered waters of Albany’s Kalgan River on this half-day scenic cruise aboard a glass-bottom vessel. You’ll learn about Albany’s history and wildlife, with the chance to spot hawks, eagles, pelicans and kangaroos.
• Explore Albany Heritage Park on Segway: Discover the highlights of the 260 hectare Heritage Park on segway. Traverse sandy beaches and hilly terrain with ease whilst exploring more of Albany with your local guide. Learn more here.
• Explore the Granite Skywalk at the Porongorups: you can join a guided tour departing from Albany. Explore new heights from the Granite Skywalk, with a lunch and wine tasting at a local winery on the way back to town.
• Whale Watching: From June to September the magnificent humpback and Southern Right whales can be seen in the water of King George Sound near Albany. Learn more here .

Dinner & Drinks at Rats Bar

Our last dinner was over the other side of Albany in Middleton Beach.

Rats Bar caught our attention with its delicious sounding menu and great range of local wines. Notably, the risotto was one of the best I had ever had. Rats Bar is recommended for drinks and dinner while in Albany.

Day 7: Albany to Perth

Head over to Naked Bean , touted as one of the best coffee shops in Albany before hitting the road for the long 5 hour drive back to Perth.

You’ll pass nearby the Porongorup National Park, where you can hike up to the Granite Skywalk . Another option would be to do the Bluff Knoll hike in Stirling Range National Park. You can read all about it in my Bluff Knoll guide .

That wraps up your week long road trip exploring the beautiful South West region of Western Australia. There is so much to see and do, but this one week road trip South West WA itinerary gives you time to explore the main sights without feeling too rushed!

You can head further along the south coast and visit Esperance , home to some of WA’s best beaches . Allow at least an additional four nights to your journey. From Albany, it’s a further 5 hour drive to Esperance.

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30 thoughts on “Best of South West WA: One Week Road Trip Itinerary”

Wait, there is such a thing as underground yoga in a cave?! No way!!! I am adding this to my bucket list right now. That was so cool to learn and realize was a thing out there somewhere. And that name of the bar…Rats Bar. This would catch my eye too. Literally laughing out loud. The food did look delicious and will have to try it one day if I ever make it over. Thanks for sharing this!

I never been to Australia! The wineries and the forest really attracts me!

Love the imagery with the drone and land photos side-by-side. And Gloucester Tree Fire Lookout looks like an adventure worthy of a road trip!

I was booked and about to head to Aus for three months right before borders started shutting down, so reading Aus posts is so hard lol! But this road trip sounds and looks so amazing, I’m saving it for later. I definitely want to visit for more than three months now!

Road trips must be a special thing, the coast of Australia seems magical! I hope to do this someday.

Great Post. There is so much to see and do in WA, Margaret River is a particular favourite.

I’ve only been to WA once, but that was more of a romantic trip with my partner (it was our first international trip together), so we didn’t really go around much. Only chilled out in Perth and Fremantle. The next time I visit, I’d love to go on a road trip like this one!

I’ve never been to Australia but this looks like such a great road trip itinerary! Thanks for sharing 🙂

This looks like the type of road trip I would love to set off on! I’ll definitely save this itinerary for when I head to this part of Australia.

My gosh, these views are stunning and this food looks divine. I’ve just saved for my Australia bucketlist. Dying to visit one day!!

I am so amazed by this beautiful area! The landscapes are beautiful and I really appreciate the beaches! I hope to go to Australia one day!

Your pictures make me want to visit right now! I can’t wait to go back and explore WA!

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Thank you so much Tess !! We are going to use this Itenary as a rough guide for my Fiances first trip to Australia !!!

Theres some locations in here I had never even heard of !! Yoga in Caves sounds really grounding and relaxing and I love Pemberton so much !! thanks for all you included.

Weve been under the pump lately and were sure what route to take through the south west thanks for including accomodation ideas . this was such a time saver instead of writing our own itinery down so we stay on track and not waste any time in our short holiday period.

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This is great, but Texas isn’t the largest state in the U.S.! Continental maybe, but Alaska is actually 2.5 times bigger than Texas.

Hehe thanks for the correction!

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PLAN your EPIC EAST COAST AUSTRALIA Road TRip Itinerary

Planning the perfect East Coast Australia road trip Itinerary is worth a little of research, knowing the towns you don’t want to miss and getting a feel for how long you need to cover the route is a great place to start. Consider this a primer to help you on your way to creating your own great trip!

There’s a lot more to the east coast of Australia than Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef . This is a vast area, filled with small towns, amazing beaches , and lots of opportunities for adventure sports and activities. If you’re trying to plan an East Coast Australia Itinerary, then you will have your pick of places to go and things to see. To make that process a little easier, here’s some advice for seeing the best this region has to offer.

The best time to travel Australia’s East Coast

Where to begin your east coast australia road trip, how long does it take to drive the east coast, east coast australia travel map – suggested stops, hire a campervan, join a tour, the whitsundays, fraser island, choose an east coast tour.

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The east coast of Australia is extraordinarily diverse.

• The far north is tropical, which means it’s hot and humid pretty much year-round.
• The south end of the coast has the standard four seasons, and you will even need your winter woollies.

When you’re planning your East Coast Australia road trip, you’ll need to take this considerable variation into account.

How you choose to travel will probably determine when you visit.

• If you plan to camp and sleep outdoors, avoid winter (June-August) as it will be too cold to sleep outdoors in the south.
• If you like to swim or just want good weather, then don’t travel in the middle of summer. This is the wet season in the far north of Queensland, which means lots of rain. It’s also box jellyfish season, so swimming at the beaches can be dangerous – if not deadly.
• If you want to avoid these issues, try travelling in spring (September – November) or autumn (March-May).

When planning your East Coast Australia itinerary, you’ll have to choose whether to start in Cairns in the north of Melbourne in the south or if time is limited then Sydney or Brisbane . There isn’t a lot of difference between these choices. All four cities have an international airport, offer lots of places to stay and things to do, as well as places to hire everything you’ll need for your trip. The deciding factors are weather and time.

However, if you’re planning an East Coast Australia itinerary for autumn, it might be better to start in Melbourne. That means you’ll be in warm, sunny Queensland by the time the cold sets in.

Most people don’t realise just how big Australia is. You can’t drive from Cairns to Melbourne, or the other way around, in a day or even in a few days. These cities are over 3,700 km apart. It would take you at least 40 hours to get from one city to the other without stopping, slowing for traffic, or encountering hold-ups. Obviously, your East Coast Australia itinerary will have to take these kinds of distances into account.

You could drive this distance in a week if you push it, but longer is better. Around four weeks is good if you want to see all the highlights along the way. But if you want to take your time and spend a few days in all the good spots, you should probably plan for 6-8 weeks.

How should you travel the East Coast of Australia ?

This is probably the first choice you need to make when you’re planning your East Coast Australia itinerary. You can fly between cities and popular spots, but you will miss a lot along the way. Flights within Australia can be costly, so this is the more expensive option.  

The best way to see everything is to drive. Here are your choices for a driving trip:

This is the easiest way. You can hire a car in Cairns or Melbourne and drop it off at the end of the trip. This works if you’re travelling on your own or with a friend and don’t mind staying in hotels, hostels, and campsites along the way.

If you’re travelling with a family or just want your own accommodation, you can hire a campervan or motorhome for your trip. There are lots of choices of camper vans, from budget Jucy to luxury offerings from Britz. We rented from Let’s Go Motorhomes and explored the NSW section of the coast in 2020. Whatever your travel style and budget, you can find a campervan to match.

If you can’t drive, take the trusty Greyhound bus . Their routes are extensive, and you can get hop-on-hop-off passes that are fairly cost-effective. This is also one of the most comfortable ways to travel, as you can sleep while you’re on the move.

Sometimes if you are short of planning time or would rather someone else sorted out all the logistic a multi day tour makes sense. These can be loads of fun, particularly if you are travelling alone and while they are certainly more expensive than doing it yourself they offer you a quality carefree experience where you just have to enjoy yourself and let someone else do the daily worrying!

This 8 day tour covers the stretch from Cairns to Brisbane and can be a good choice if you don’t have a lot of time. You could do this tour and then do the next stretch in a rental campervan. The best of both worlds, really.

If you are not a local, we suggest you read our guide on Driving in Australia before you get behind the wheel.

The Best Places to Stop on your East Coast road Trip

And now the best part of your East Coast Australia itinerary – deciding where to go. Whether you like beaches, cities, weird little towns, international cities, or stunning landscapes, you’ll have the opportunity to see everything during your road trip in Australia.

Here are the most popular places to visit:

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and all its wonders, so it’s a not-to-be-missed stop on your trip. Located in tropical Far North Queensland, it’s a small town that’s mostly known for its reef access, so don’t expect to do a lot in the town itself. You might like to base yourself a little further north, we have written a guide to the towns near Cairns so you can decide which is right for you.

While you’re in Cairns, make sure you see:

• Cape Tribulation
• The ancient Daintree Rainforest
• The Atherton Tablelands

While you’re in the far north, you have to see the Whitsundays. Often called one of the most beautiful places on earth, the Whitsundays are a series of islands that can be accessed from Arlie Beach.

They offer unparalleled access to the Great Barrier Reef and beautiful, pristine beach experiences. Why not stop for a few days, book a one day Whitsunday’s sailing tour or find out how to charter a yacht and become an ocean explorer? For a really special experience, we recommend a night on Reefsleep.

If you enjoy the beach, then Fraser Island needs to be part of your East Coast Australia itinerary. It’s the largest sand island in the world and a World Heritage Listed site that offers untouched rainforest, animal experiences, and the chance to get lost in rugged natural surroundings.

Fraser Island is located further down the coast near Hervey Bay; if you want to see whales during your trip, then this is where to go.

If you’ve made it from Cairns to Brisbane, you probably need to stay in a big city and shake the sand from your shoes. Brisbane is the perfect place to do that.

Young and vibrant, with great weather nearly year-round, Brisbane offers lots of attractions such as:

• Shopping on Edwards Street
• Interesting local markets
• South Bank Beach
• Top restaurants
• Great hikes
• Numerous breweries and small bars
• Museums and Art Galleries

If you stop for a few days, you might like to check out our favourite day trips from Brisbane that will help you discover some of the nearby gems.

Just over the border of New South Wales Kingscliff and beauty of Kingscliff and the entire Tweed region is a surprise to most travellers. If you are not one for big cities you could skip Brisbane and head straight here.

• Discover the small communities in the Tweed Valley
• Visit Cabarita Beach – named Australia’s best beach back in 2020 and still one of our favourites
• Snorkel the rocky shore of Hastings Point
• Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillery and sample the amazing rum

Camp at Hosanna Farm – with camping spots, farm animals to meet and espresso coffee it’s a fantstic spot to call home for a couple of nights.

Byron Bay, a small town that has become a mecca for alternative living, healing and wellness, is a well established stop on any east coast road trip. Once a sleepy beach town, it’s now filled with yoga and healthy living centres. But this doesn’t detract from its beauty. Byron Bay’s beaches are simply stunning, and the natural surroundings are green, lush – just what you need to heal your soul.

While you’re in Byron Bay, take the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse walk , go surfing, swimming, skydiving, or just hang out and enjoy the vibes.

Located just south of Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo is the gateway to the ancient rainforest and dramatic waterfalls of the World Heritage-listed Dorrigo National Park. If you have time for a detour explore the Waterfall Way.

The park is just north of the town and offers:

• Walking trails
• Exhibitions on some of the local flora and fauna
• Incredible lookouts
• Accommodation to suit every budget
• Delicious local produce
• Aboriginal cultural experiences
• Lots of charming small towns

We have written about of favourite National Parks in Australia if you want to explore more

Everyone’s heard of Sydney because of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. But this city has a lot more to offer – from a fun beach vibe to easy access to the Blue Mountains .

Whether you’re visiting for the concrete jungle or want to be out in nature, Sydney should be an essential stop on your trip. Our tips for a weekend in Sydney is a good read before you hit the town.

Three hours’ drive south of Sydney, Jervis Bay is said to have some of the whitest sand in the world. It’s one of Australia’s most popular seaside destinations because of its peaceful, aqua coloured waters and summery charm.

While you’re there, go scuba diving, camping, or take a whale and dolphin watching cruise and enjoy the outdoors before you hit Melbourne’s concrete walls.

And then we have Melbourne, one of the busiest and most international cities in Australia. This is where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the country, our sporting capital, and some fantastic shopping.

Whether you’re starting or ending your East Coast Australia itinerary in Melbourne, it’s a great place to spend a couple of days. There are heaps of free things to do in Melbourne and you must explore the city’s street art , it’s world-class.

While you are in Melbourne, try to do at least a couple of these walks

How to Travel in Australia on a Budget

You don’t plan a trip to Australia if you’re on a tight budget. The fact is that Australia is fairly expensive to travel and live in, and you won’t find any areas that offer huge discounts. But if you’re looking to save as much money as you can, here are some suggestions for your East Coast Australia itinerary:

• Travel in winter to take advantage of low season prices.
• Use DriveNow to make sure you’re getting the best prices for transport. 
• Stay in local hostels or camp out whenever possible.
• Check out the bus passes if taking the Greyhound bus is part of your East Coast Australia itinerary.
• Check out relocation deals for cheap campervan rentals.

If you are travelling alone and want some company or prefer not to drive there are a number of tours that cover Australia’s east coast

• 3 Week East Coast Surf Road Trip : Melbourne to Brisbane – learn to surf every day!
• Boutique Brisbane to Cairns Australian east coast tour – 7 Day small group 4 star accommodation
• Stray Australia: Sydney to Cairns – Freestyle Pass – travel the coast over 2 weeks – valid for 12 months
• Stray Australia: Brisbane to Cairns – Freestyle Pass – allow a week to see this magical part of the coast

The best thing about an East Coast Australia trip is the freedom. You can choose where you go and when, take advantage of interesting side trips, and move on when you feel the need. This is the kind of trip that’s all about you, so get planning and enjoy the feeling of a holiday that’s literally an open road.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

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The Ultimate Western Australia Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From Esperance in the south all the way up to Broome in the north, this ultimate Western Australia road trip itinerary takes you along all the highlights of Australia’s largest state.

As soon as you hit the road and start exploring Western Australia, you’ll immediately realise why this destination is a truly unique corner of the world.

In terms of land mass, it is the biggest state in Australia. It is absolutely massive, taking up almost the entire western half of the country.

Despite its size, Western Australia is sparsely populated. Much of the land is desert, so it is extremely remote and there are few tourists here compared to places like New South Wales or Queensland.

Even when heading to the desert regions of the Outback, most travellers head to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory before considering a trip to Western Australia.

Because Western Australia is mostly rural, and there are few tourists, it’s actually one of the best spots for road trips in Australia!

Full of wildlife, national parks, coral reefs, wineries, charming towns, white sandy beaches, and rugged natural landscapes that sometimes look like another planet, Western Australia has so much to offer.

The best way to see it all is definitely a road trip. Public transport doesn’t reach all the best parts of the state, so a driving adventure allows you to get to all the most beautiful and remote places on your own schedule.

Let’s get into this epic Western Australia road trip itinerary!

Table of Contents

Where to Start?

How long is the drive, car or campervan, driving in western australia – road trip tips, day 1 – perth to dunsborough, day 2 – dunsborough to margaret river, day 3 – margaret river to albany, day 4 – albany to bremer bay, day 5 – bremer bay to esperance and cape le grand national park, day 6 – esperance to hyden, day 7 – hyden to perth, day 8 – perth to jurien bay, day 9 – jurien bay to geraldton, day 10 – geraldton to kalbarri, day 11 – kalbarri to shark bay, day 12 – shark bay to coral bay, day 13 – coral bay to exmouth, day 14 – exmouth, day 15 – exmouth to karijini national park, day 16 – karijini, day 17 – karijini to eighty mile beach, day 18 – eighty mile beach to broome, where next, wa road trip guide.

Before we get into the actual itinerary for a Western Australia road trip, we’re going to cover some of the basics.

To plan a road trip of this diverse and stunning state, you need to have a few things sorted including your transport, your time frame, your supplies, and any other logistics.

The road trip will consist of two sections: A southern loop from Perth to Esperance and back, and a northern route from Perth up to Broome and back. This is a lot of ground to cover, but it is so worth it.

To help you plan your road trip, here are some important things to consider.

Although it makes sense to start at one end of the west coast and finish at the other, this isn’t realistic for most people.

This Western Australia road trip will reach from Esperance in the south, all the way up to Broome in the north. However, flights into Esperance or Broome aren’t cheap from most destinations around Australia. Car rentals are even more scarce, and more costly in these places.

Your best option is to start your Western Australia road trip in Perth.

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, and it has the most amenities available. Flights into Perth are plentiful, and they are more affordable than other places in the state.

Fly into Perth, spend a few days enjoying the capital city, then rent a car and head out on your road trip. Return to Perth at the end to return your car and fly home.

If you already have your own car or camper van and you don’t need to rent one in Perth, you can always begin this road trip anywhere that suits you. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to drive all the way back home after the trip.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Perth!

The biggest obstacle when planning a Western Australia road trip is time!

Because the state is so huge and all the attractions are spread out, you’ll need a good chunk of time to see everything.

Give yourself 3 weeks at the very least to complete the entire Western Australia road trip and then loop back to Perth. This is the very minimum amount of time, with just one night in most places.

The first part of the road trip starts in Perth, follows along the south west edge of the state until Esperance, then loops back to Perth inland via Hyden. The driving distance is roughly 21 hours (with no stops), covering about 1,900 km.

The second part starts in Perth and heads north along the coast, with a detour to Karijini National Park, before ending in Broome. The driving distance is roughly 31 hours (with no stops) and covers about 2,800 km.

After Broome you’ll return to Perth unless you’re continuing into the Northern Territory. So the total driving time for the north and the south, plus the return drive to Perth, is roughly 75 hours. The total distance is roughly 6,700km.

Three weeks is very doable for this drive! If you have time to spare, stretch the road trip out into a month or more.

Whether you want to take your time and leisurely explore the state, or you want to see it all in 3 weeks, a Western Australia road trip is one of the best things to do Down Under .

You can do a Western Australia road trip in either one! But spoiler alert, we recommend a campervan!

A rental car is cheaper than renting a campervan. You’ll probably spend less money on petrol, and there is less maintenance required with a small car.

But you’ll have to book all your accommodations in advance. You can also pack a tent and camping gear , you’ll just have to set up camp every night.

A campervan is the most convenient option because you can just drive up to most campsites and you’re good to go.

There is a lot of hopping around on this road trip, so it is handy to just have your sleeping arrangements all set up in your van. If you don’t have your own van, you can rent one in Perth.

We recommend Travellers Autobarn , who have the biggest range of budget-friendly vans available.

Whether you rent a car or a camper van, definitely take advantage of the amazing campgrounds in the state.

Camping in the remote outback areas of Western Australia and watching the stars is an epic adventure!

Another thing to note: you don’t necessarily need a 4WD. Some more rugged areas of the road trip will definitely be easier with a 4WD, but you can still complete the road trip without one.

Here are some other road trip tips for Western Australia.

As mentioned, Western Australia is very remote. Petrol stations are usually available, but it is wise to be prepared just in case. Try to have spare fuel, spare tires, and extra necessities like food, water, and a first aid kit.

Also, be careful when driving on the outback roads. Wildlife is everywhere, and even when the road looks deserted, you never know what may jump out in front of you. Particularly at dawn and dusk, drive with caution.

In terms of weather, I would recommend avoiding a Western Australia road trip in the middle of summer.

December through February can get extremely hot, especially the further north you go.

The north of Western Australia has a tropical climate as well, meaning summer is also rainy season.

To avoid rain, floods, and potential road closures, and super hot temperatures, plan your road trip outside the summer months.

With those tips in mind, all road trips around Western Australia should run smoothly. Let’s get into the itinerary and our suggestions for the best places to go on your road trip.

Western Australia Road Trip Itineraries

As discussed earlier, we have separated this Western Australia road trip itinerary into two sections.

The Southern Route begins in Perth, follows the south west edge of the state to Margaret River and Albany, then continues to Esperance. From there, you can loop back to Perth inland.

The Northern Route starts in Perth and follows the west coast up to Exmouth. Then you can take a detour to Karijini, then continue up to Broome before heading back to Perth or continuing your road trip north.

These itineraries can be modified according to your plans. You can just do one route if you don’t have a full three weeks to spare. If you have more time, feel free to spend extra days in places you really love.

If you don’t have your own wheels you can rent a campervan in Perth .

Southern Route

The Southern Route of the road trip takes 7 days. If you only have a short time to explore Western Australia, this is the quickest road trip to choose.

Be sure to spend a few days exploring Perth before you set out. Check out Fremantle, explore the beautiful  Perth beaches , or take a day trip to Rottnest Island and play with the quokkas.

Once you’ve had your fun in Perth, pick up your car or camper van and get going!

If you’re only planning on driving south too, have a read of our Perth to Esperance road trip guide.

From Perth, it’s a 3 hour drive to Dunsborough.

Stop in Busselton along the way, a charming coastal town with plenty of  fun things to do .

Stretch your legs along the iconic Busselton Jetty, or do the Underwater Sea Walk which explores the marine life under the jetty.

You could also walk to the Cape Naturalist Lighthouse or get some delicious fresh seafood for lunch.

Continue on to Dunsborough, which has some nice wineries and beaches to check out. Meelup Beach is a great spot for a swim or surf.

Dunsborough and Margaret River are only 30 minutes apart, so you can spend the night in either place.

Today you’ll want to do some wine tasting in the Margaret River region, as this is a highlight of Western Australia. You can just drive from vineyard to vineyard on your own, or  book a winery day tour  so you can drink all the wine you want without having to drive.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Also check out Margaret River Chocolate Company and Margaret River Dairy Company to sample locally made, artisan food and buy some snacks for your trip.

Other fun things to do near Margaret River include surfing at Yallingup Beach, taking a dip at the nearby natural swimming pool called Injidup Natural Spa, and checking out the stalactites and stalagmites at Jewel Cave or Ngilgi Cave.

After Margaret River, it’s time to head towards your next destination: Esperance. If you want an extra day in Esperance, drive straight there from Margaret River. It takes 8 hours.

If you prefer to break the journey up and see more Western Australia highlights along the way, you can make a few stops on the way to Esperance.

It’s 4 hours from Margaret River to Albany.

Definitely stop in Hamelin Bay , where lots of sting rays swim through the shallow waters. You can go snorkelling here or just wade amongst the rays. 9am or 10am is the best time to see them!

Another cool stop on the way to Albany is the massive, seaside boulders known as Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park. Nearby is Greens Pool, a beautiful spot for a swim.

Just before you reach Albany there is another gem: Torndirrup National Park. Check out the unique rock formations here like The Gap and the Blowholes, and the Natural Bridge.

Read next:  The 20 Best Things to Do in Albany

It’s 2 hours from Albany to Bremer Bay, the next stop on your way to Esperance along the south west coast.

You can spend the morning in Albany. Get brekky in a cafe, go for a swim or stroll on Middleton Beach, or check out the National ANZAC Center for a bit of Aussie history. If you’re here on a Saturday, definitely stop by the Albany Farmers Market.

Once you reach Bremer Bay, consider booking an  orca whale watching tour . This is one of the best places in the world to see orcas in the wild. Between January and March, the ocean here is home to the largest congregation of Orcas in the Southern Hemisphere.

You can also go whale watching here between June and October, as southern right whales come here to calve.

You may also see humpback whales, pilot whales, and more. Anywhere on this region of the south west coast of Australia is great for whale watching during the winter months!

Also in the area is the Fitzgerald River National Park. Full of beautiful forest and walking trails, this is a nice place to explore if you’re not here during whale season.

There are two campgrounds here as well if you want to spend the night in the wilderness.

From Bremer Bay, it’s a 5.5 hour drive to Esperance.

Known for its pink lakes, stunning beaches, and active wildlife, Esperance is one of Australia’s most beautiful places.

The famous saltwater Pink Lake is right next to the town, but it isn’t actually pink anymore.

Lake Hillier is the more famous pink lake, which is located on an island off the coast of Esperance. You can access this lake by a boat tour if you wish.

Once you arrive in Esperance, spend the day exploring Cape Le Grand National Park . Lucky Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.

It’s famous for its white sand, turquoise water, and kangaroos which frequent the beach.

A great way to see all the highlights of Esperance is to do the Great Ocean Drive. It’s a 40-km loop that starts and ends in Esperance.

Along the Great Ocean Drive is the Observatory Point Lookout, Twilight Beach, Twilight Cove, Ten Mile Lagoon, Lucky Bay Brewing Company, and the Pink Lake.

You can follow the  Great Ocean Drive route  or just pick and choose the attractions you want to see while you’re here.

Check out our full list of the  best things to do in Esperance .

After enjoying Esperance, it’s time to head back to Perth. It’s an 8 hour drive on the inland route. You can do it all at once, but we recommend stopping halfway in Hyden.

You’ll reach Hyden in 4 hours. While you’re here you have to check out Wave Rock. This giant slab of granite that was supposedly formed 130 million years ago is actually shaped like a huge wave.

It has formed this way naturally over time, and it’s one of the coolest natural attractions along the route. It’s worth stopping in Hyden just to see it.

From Hyden, it’s just a 4 hour drive back to Perth! You’ve finished the southern section of this road trip.

You can choose to spend some time relaxing in Perth, or just continue straight on to the northern section.

Northern Route

This next Western Australia road trip route goes from Perth up to Broome.

As you head north towards the Coral Coast, the waters of the Indian Ocean get warmer and you’ll find the marine life is flourishing.

You’ll also see lots of dramatic natural landscapes within all the national parks and coastal drives.

The Coral Coast is majestic, colourful, and full of life. It begins in Cervantes, a small town 2 hours north of Perth and ends up in Exmouth.

Read next: Check out our comprehensive Perth to Broome road trip itinerary with more info, or continue reading below for an overview of what you should do on this part of the drive!

From Perth it’s only a 2.5 hour drive to Jurien Bay. On the way you can make a few cool stops if you’d like.

If you already have your vehicle, then you can keep on driving from the southern loop.

But if you are looking to pick up wheels here, grab a campervan from Perth and you’ll be good to go.

Stop in Yanchep National Park to explore the forest, go wildlife watching, stretch your legs on some walking trails, and seek out some limestone caves.

Lancelin is another unique stop because it has sand dunes! You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the Sahara Desert here.

If you have a 4WD you can go off roading on the Lancelin sand dunes. Or you can  rent a sandboard for $12.50  and have some fun.

But the absolute best stop is Nambung National Park, which is a real highlight of Western Australia.

The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is an otherworldly natural sight. This arid desert is full of natural limestone rock formations that were formed somewhere between 25,000 and 30,000 years ago.

The Pinnacles are a fascinating sight, and could be considered a must-see on road trips through Western Australia.

Once you arrive in Jurien Bay, enjoy the relaxed pace of this chill beach town. Walk along the white sandy beach and go for a snorkel or swim.

Camp near the beach at Sandy Cape Recreation Park and watch the stars.

After a good night’s sleep, there is one amazing adventure to do in Jurien Bay before you continue on the road: a sea lion tour!

A colony of sea lions lives on Essex Rocks, which is a 15-minute boat ride away from Jurien Bay.

Book a boat tour  so you can visit the colony and go snorkelling and swimming with some friendly sea lions.

After swimming with sea lions, drive 2 hours north from Jurien Bay towards Geraldton.

Geraldton is a pretty quiet town that is a popular stop on a road trip of Western Australia.

Spend the day visiting the cafes, markets, museums, beaches, and swimming holes in the area.

There are a few nice caravan parks in Geraldton as well, where you can rent a cabin or park your campervan.

Tomorrow you’re heading to Kalbarri National Park, which is full of fun things to do.

It’s a 2-hour drive from Geraldton to Kalbarri, a resort town framed by rugged coastal cliffs and oceans filled with wildlife.

On the way to Kalbarri you’ll pass by another pink lake called Hutt Lagoon. This lake is still pink due to the presence of a special algae, so check it out if you haven’t yet gotten a cool photo of a Western Australia pink lake.

Once you arrive in Kalbarri, spend some time admiring the stunning coastline. Visit Red Bluff, Natural Bridge, and Island Rock for impressive views of the jagged rocks towering over the ocean.

You can also head into Kalbarri National Park, which has lots of great hiking trails and some iconic landscapes.

The Z Bend Lookout is a short day trail that is quite popular.

The real highlight of Kalbarri National Park is the short, loop trail to Nature’s Window.

This is a large natural arch made of layers upon layers of dusty red sandstone. The arch creates “Nature’s Window” where you can look through over the rivers, forests, and cliffs of the national park.

Check out our list of the  best places to visit in Australia  for more travel inspiration!

Continue driving north for 4 hours until you reach Shark Bay, then spend the day exploring this very special area of Australia.

Shark Bay on the Coral Coast is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is the most westerly point of Australia, and is made up of numerous islands, reefs, national parks, beaches, and more.

Shark Bay is also home to the world’s largest and richest seagrass beds, where you can find large numbers of dugongs grazing in the waters.

There are so many other cool things to see in Shark Bay. Visit Hamelin Pool to see the oldest life forms on earth: a type of living fossil known as stromatolites. These algae colonies are millions of years old.

Another highlight of the area is Shell Beach. This is one of the few places on earth where you can find a beach with billions of tiny shells in place of the sand.

After admiring Shell Beach, visit Francois Peron National Park to see the vibrant natural colors, from the red cliffs and white sandy beaches to the turquoise waters.

Monkey Mia is a small, quiet area of Shark Bay famous for its marine life. From a huge population of wild bottlenose dolphins, to manta rays, turtles, dugongs, and more, Monkey Mia is a great spot for wildlife watching.

Denham is the gateway town to the nature of Shark Bay, so you can find accommodation here unless you want to camp at a more remote campground in Francois Peron National Park. The Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is another nice place to stay.

After marveling at the wildlife and colorful nature around Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, and the national park, drive 5 hours to Coral Bay.

On the way you can stop at the Quobba Blowholes to watch the water shoot out of natural rock crevices and up into the air.

Coral Bay is a charming spot on the Coral Coast, so enjoy your day here before heading up to Exmouth tomorrow.

There are a few nice caravan parks near the beach such as Bayview Caravan Park and People’s Park.

The Ningaloo Reef acts as a barrier from the Indian Ocean so the water here is calm, clear, and peaceful. The conditions are perfect for snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking, or stand up paddle boarding.

If you want a real treat, you can  tour the reefs of Coral Bay  on a glass bottom boat.

A highlight of the area is Skeleton Bay, a nursery for reef sharks. Stop here to add another species to your list of animals you’ve seen on this road trip of Western Australia!

From Coral Bay it’s 2 hours to Exmouth, one of the best places to visit on a road trip of Western Australia.

Stop by the  Ningaloo Visitor Centre  when you arrive for maps and information. You’ll spend a full day in Exmouth tomorrow exploring the beaches and reefs of Cape Range National Park so make sure you get some rest today in preparation for an incredible day.

Read more about the ultimate Perth to Exmouth road trip if you’re not planning on heading further north.

Exmouth is a major tourist town that marks the gateway to the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area.

The waters are filled with coral reefs and marine life, and the land is surrounded by the gorges and cliffs of Cape Range National Park.

It’s a stunning area, and it’s sure to be a highlight of your road trip.

Easily the best thing to do in Exmouth is swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants roam the warm waters of the Ningaloo Reef, alongside humpback whales and manta rays. You can book a tour to snorkel with the ocean animals during the whale shark season (March through August).

Book your whale shark tour  a few months in advance because they sell out quickly!

Other amazing things to do in Exmouth include snorkeling at Turquoise Bay or Sandy Bay, or going hiking on the Yardie Gorge Trail or the Mandu Mandu Gorge Trail.

After a big day of snorkeling or hiking, get ready for an 8 hour drive to one of Australia’s most phenomenal national parks. Be sure to fill up on petrol, water, and snacks before you leave.

Once you arrive in Karijini National Park, stop at Visitor Centre in Tom Price which is the highest town in Western Australia. Here you can get maps of the park and stock up on more supplies if needed.

If you have a camper van, a great place to spend the night is the free camping ground near Hamersley Gorge. If you aren’t camping,  Karijini Eco Retreat  is a gorgeous place to stay.

Start your day in Australia’s second largest national park with an early morning swim in Hamersley Gorge.

There is so much to see and do in  Karijini National Park , so it’s a good idea to pick which hikes you’re doing the night before

That way you aren’t scrambling to make decisions and you can make the most of your day in the park.

The park is most well known for its rich red hues, swimming holes, and gorges. Some of the best gorges to visit include Knox Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge.

Each one has a challenging hiking trail that can be done in a few hours or more depending on your fitness level.

You probably won’t be able to hike every single gorge in one day, so take your pick of which hikes you’d like to tackle.

You can also just visit lookouts to see the gorges without a strenuous hike if you prefer. Fortescue Falls, Fern Pool, and the 2km Gorge Rim Trail are also highlights of the park.

Dales Camping Area is another lovely camping spot in the park if you’d like to spend the night somewhere new. It needs to be booked in advance.

From Karijini it’s a 6.5 hour drive to Eighty Mile Beach. 

We suggest driving though Port Hedland, which is a good place to stop for petrol, food, water, and any other supplies. 

There isn’t heaps to do in Eighty Mile Beach besides enjoying the long, peaceful stretch of sand.

Go swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or walking. Definitely watch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean. 

If you have a 4WD you can drive along the beach. The Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park is a convenient place to stay. You can park your camper van at a powered or unpowered campsite, or rent a cabin for the night. 

Time to head to the last destination on your road trip of Western Australia! Broome is about 4 hours north of Eighty Mile Beach. 

Broome is the gateway to the Kimberly Region of northern Australia. The tropical resort town is best known for its pearl farms and the beautiful Cable Beach where you can ride camels at sunset. 

Some of the other  best things to do in Broome  include visiting the museums and Aboriginal art galleries, going whale watching, and checking out the views at Roebuck Bay. 

Further west from Broome lies the Gibb River Road, a scenic drive through the heart of the Outback.

Consider heading that way if you have more time to road trip, as it’s a unique part of Australia that has some beautiful gorges and lakes. 

After enjoying Broome, you have finished the most epic road trip of Western Australia!

If you have your own camper van or car, consider continuing north towards Darwin and Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. You’ve already made it this far, why not see more of the best places in Australia?

If you have a rental vehicle to return, or you’re done road tripping and you have responsibilities to get back to, get ready for a big drive back to Perth.

It’s almost a 23 hour drive from Broome to Perth via the National Highway. This route cuts inland so it’s a bit faster than heading back along the coast.

Don’t forget you can also look into one-way campervan rentals for a slight premium if that suits your itinerary more.

Hopefully this guide will help you on your next adventure out in Western Australia!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Thanks so much for this brilliant guide. We are going over in about 3 months and your excellent summary of the region will form the basis of our itinerary. Cheers.

I love the way you guide me as a reader. Amazing photos and you have a great adventure to the beautiful places. Thank you for sharing. This is what you meant by adventure, but getting there is the best part of the trip.

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Exploring wa’s south west – a spectacular 9-day road trip from perth.

How to see the best of Southern Western Australia in 9 days

So you are looking to “head West” to Perth but not quite sure where to explore, or just how much you can fit in? 

While you could easily spend a week between Perth and sister city Fremantle on the coast, most visitors like to take in at least a few side trips , or head south!  

This post is part of our Discover Australia series – learn all about travelling around Australia with kids

Your 9 day south west wa road trip itinerary.

We recommend if you have at least one week to explore southern Western Australia (WA) that you take in a circular road trip of the South West.  Our 9-day itinerary assumes you have a week starting and ending with a flight through Perth,  but there are plenty more day trips from Perth you could add onto either end of your itinerary, as well as further activities around Perth itself and Fremantle to make this into a spectacular 2-week+ WA itinerary. 

Bear in mind that distances are deceptive! It looks like a very small corner of Australia but, in fact, the South West road trip we are about to describe can take well over 1000kms! You may at a glance think you can cover it in a few days, but trust me, you will need longer, to do it any sort of justice and not spend all day in the car.

You could choose a straight forward drive from Perth to the Margaret River Region which is only around a 3-hour drive away and base yourself there just a few days before coming back to explore more around Perth.  However, we think there are so many of Australia’s natural gems you’ll miss out on if you don’t continue to head east and explore the Southern Forests and at least part of the Amazing South Coast . 

You could also choose to stay longer in each place if you hate the pack/unpack element of road tripping! We’ve given you plenty of different accommodation ideas to try along the way, but another option is to hire a campervan and bring your home with you!  Holiday Parks are an incredibly popular way to explore in Australia and make new friends along the way.

You may find holiday rental homes are subject to minimum stays and not as convenient for short road-tripping – but they are absolutely the way to go if you plan to spend a week or more. We’ve recommended a mix of hotels, holiday parks and self-catering accommodation as you make your trek “Down South”

For rental cars, we recommend you start your search on rentalcars.com .

See all our car rental savings tips here.

Day 1 Perth 

Assuming you are arriving into Perth Airport Day 1 it’s a perfectly logical place to start our round trip and get to know the most isolated capital in the world before starting your road trip.

The airport is only an 18km drive into the city centre.  The city is based around the Swan River and the newly developed Elizabeth Quay Waterfront is a real highlight. From here if time permits you can catch a river cruise or head into the city centre.  The CBD does not take long to explore, it’s quite pedestrianized and made up of a series of little arcades.

Our favourite place to head to with the kids is Kings Park . You can easily spend a whole afternoon here exploring the various parks and catch spectacular sunset views over the city. Some favourite spots include the Federation Walkway and the Rio Tinto Naturescape park. 

Where to stay in Perth

A huge range of accommodation options in the CBD and nearby suburbs. Like any city, the closer to the centre the more you’ll pay. Watch out for car parking fees if you’ve picked up your hire car from the airport.  Otherwise, there are some car rentals close in to town too but having your car ready means an early start day 2.

At the top end of the range, the Crown Towers  in Burswood is great with plenty of play parks and facilities nearby (also great if you happen to be in town for the AFL!).

We also like Mounts Bay Waters Apartment Hotels and The Westin Perth for CBD hotels, or Perth Central City Stay Apartments are also convenient to a lot of places, walking distance to Kings Park. 

There is an increasingly good range of AirBnB properties in Perth to choose from, ideal for family groups. 

Day 2 Perth to Bunbury via Dwellingup

Perth to dwelling up 1hr 30 mins – dwellingup to bunbury 1hr 20 mins;  or direct perth to bunbury 2 hours.

Start your journey south from the Mitchell Freeway/State Route 2, turning off at Pinjarra then heading into the forest around Dwellingup with your first stop at Trees Adventure ,  a ropes course in Lane Poole Reserve! This is a fabulously fun family activity in the forest, ideal for 4 years+. They have a low ropes course then 7 years+, they have various degrees of challenging high ropes courses to tackle. (Pre-booking especially at weekends and holidays is a must).

From here you can camp in the forest if you’ve come campervan equipped, or continue your journey back to the coast. 

A family favourite in Bunbury is the Dolphin Discovery Centre. This interactive zone has been set up to help foster a healthy relationship between the dolphins that like to all these warm waters home, and us curious humans who love to interact with them.

Where to stay in Bunbury

Discovery Parks on the Bunbury Foreshore or Bunbury Hotel Koombana Bay are both good family choices. 

Day 3 Bunbury to Busselton

Bunbury to busselton 40 minutes direct.

The next stop is only a short hop – though our kids will always insist on a side trip to the small farming town of Donnybrook, famous for it’s Apple Fun Park ! Its claim to fame?  The biggest FREE outdoor playpark in Australia!  There’s all manner of outdoor play equipment here for kids of all ages to enjoy, and of course, nearby bakeries to stop at for a treat before heading on to nearby Busselton.

The undoubted highlight of Busselton is the iconic   Busselton Jetty .   The longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, a huge amount of restoration work has seen a small electric train installed for those not quite up to the 1.8km walk get to the end and enjoy the Underwater Observatory in Geographe Bay.  

The Geographe Bay area generally has very calm beaches making it perfect for small children to swim.  There are a multitude of playparks along the foreshore here, or keep heading along the coast to Dunsborough and as far as the tip to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. You can also use this area for beachside walks or running and if you have a doubt on how to choose equipment for these activities, check more here .  

It’s possible to climb the lighthouse tower   (for a somewhat hefty fee).  You will also find Eagle Bay Brewing Co on this drive – well worthy of your lunch stop! 

Where to stay in Busselton

There’s a HUGE range of family accommodation here from holiday parks to motels and resorts (though don’t quite go thinking Bali ). We love and can personally recommend Big 4 Beachlands with great family sized cabins and facilities.  Staying near to the jetty in town try the Busselton Jetty Chalets  with family sized room options.

Day 4 Busselton to Margaret River (or to Augusta)

Busselton to augusta is around 1 hour direct.

Now, are there any wine lovers in the house? For us grown-ups, this can be the highlight day of a tour down south!  There are incredibly over 180 wineries in the Margaret River Region alone, many of which offer cellar door tastings – from huge conglomerates offering restaurant meals and entertainment with your lunch or dinner, through to smaller boutiques only open weekends for tastings by appointment.  The options are endless!!!

If you are coming for a full wine-tasting experience you will, of course, need to plan carefully. There are many tour companies that can do the driving for you – or take sensible precautions and allocate your skipper! Police are vigilant on you remaining below the 0.05 alcohol limit for driving – with good reason and those small sample glasses add up quickly.

You can perhaps reasonably see three to five wineries in one day without being totally rushed, but wine-lovers are best recommended to allow extra days in the region to enjoy this part of the itinerary to it’s fullest. Our full list of family-friendly favourite wineries coming soon.

If you’re more beer than wine, or drinking is not really your thing there is still PLENTY to do in the Margaret River region.  Many craft breweries double as family-friendly restaurants and are top spots for a day out, we love Cheeky Monkeys, Colonial Brewing Co & Bootleg Brewery just to name a few. 

Exploring the limestone caves along aptly named Caves Road is also an exciting part about visiting the Margaret River Region. Suited to slightly older children, take on Mammoth Caves , Jewel Caves with its enormous chambers, enjoy the underground Lake Cave or reveal in the history of the region with a guided tour through Ngilgi Cave – a complete guide here to which caves may suit your family’s ages best .

And more kiddy favourites in the region include the Yallingup Maze, the Margaret River Chocolate Company, Margaret River Ice Cream and the Candy Cow in Cowanarup. 

How have I gotten this far and not mentioned the beaches? Renown for its spectacular surf coast, there are many wonderful beaches along the Margaret River coast, most notably Smiths Beach and Prevelley Beach mouth for your surf-lovers and crashing waves. Neighbouring Gnarabup Beach is slightly calmer with the kids.

Our complete guide to Margaret River with Kids coming very soon!

Walking with the stingrays at Hamelin Bay is also a popular past-time, you will find Hamelin Bay toward the southern end of the Margaret River Region coastline.  Then the very last town you come to is Augusta.  A walk out to Cape Leeuwin lighthouse will see you at the very south-westernmost point of Australia, where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. 

Where to stay near Margaret River

Compared to the rest of the South West, the Margaret River Region is actually quite a compact part of the state between the tip at Cape Naturalist to Cape Leeuwin in the south is about 110kms.  You could choose to spend 3-4 days based in one spot in this region without moving every night. Margaret River itself is only one of many small towns, though it has grown substantially in recent years along with its reputation. 

The township of Augusta is actually quite small and quiet. There is an OK motel in town, and plenty of holiday homes spotted around, but you may prefer to stay further north in the region and just day trip down to Augusta or try out the sweet little holiday park in Hamelin Bay.

Got an accommodation suggestion? We are currently compiling our list of best Margaret River family stays for 2020 – get in touch if you have an idea or want your property to feature as the Globetrotters will be touring the region this year for updated reviews. 

Day 5 Augusta to Walpole via Manjimup

Augusta to walpole is 245kms or 3 hours direct.

Day 5 is one of those deceptively long drives, depending on which route you take and how many stops.  There are no straight lines through the spectacular forests of southern Western Australia. 

You will be utterly blown away as you head through the tall timber forests including Karri Jarrah and Tingle Tree forests.  The region has a checkered history between the need for forests and wood and the need to protect the biodiversity of the region. A trip through the Southern Forests and particularly Walpole on the south coast brings much of this to life with a combination of both plantation and old growth forest.

We have more on exploring Walpole and the Southern Forest with kids here.

Those with a good head for heights may want to stop in at one of the Fire Climb Trees in the Pemberton region (recommended for older children only). You can head to the visitor centre afterward to collect a certificate marking your achievement (I still proudly have mine from when I was 10!!)

No trip to the Southern Forests region for us would be complete without a stop in at the Manjimup Heritage Park  adventure playground. It has one of the most amazing and beautiful kid’s playgrounds with one of the tallest slides you will ever see! (The cafe seemed closed during our last visit 2018, there are otherwise several bakeries in town to grab a bite before heading to the park).

One of the most famous attractions in the region is the Valley of the Giants Skywalk and Ancient Empire Walk below.  It’s quite pricey to go in but, of course, amazing. A small tip though you can get into the Empire Walk for free, the charge is only for the treetop walk .  Otherwise, there are many other tingle forests and short walks in the region that are without charge too , learn about them here.

Where to stay near Walpole

We highly recommend heading just a little beyond Walpole to an area called Coalmine Beach. They have both normal camping sites here, cabins, and even glamping tents  – you can see our full review of their glamping tents here!

Got longer?  Stay another full day in Walpole and catch one of the morning WOW Wilderness Cruises that comes highly commended via relatives and friends.  It commences at 10am daily from the jetty in Walpole and lasts 2.5 hours.  Host Gary Muir takes you through the regions nature and history on a fabulous and fascinating excursion back in time with some amazing humour and storytelling.

Day 6 Walpole to Albany via Denmark  

Walpole to albany is 120kms, 1.5 hours if you drive direct.

There are two ways you can tackle this leg – depending on if you’ve had your fill of spectacular beaches or if you’re tending towards beer and wine – though by all means try both!

If you didn’t have time to see the Valley of the Giants then tackle this at the start of Day 6 as they are the next stop from Walpole on the South Coast Highway.

There are several inlets you can stop at but our absolute favourite and I’m sure you’ve caught dreamy photos before is Greens Pool in William Bay National Park. The stunning rock formations and brilliant white sands are to die for! (So much so this is where we had our wedding photos taken!) 

We love heading slightly further around to Mad Fish Bay . Be warned the waters here can be rougher, and you need to be very careful with your tides , but there are more little coves and better rock climbing to be found here with fewer tourists who don’t want to take on the extra dirt track – still 2WD accessible. 

Whilst you can happily spend all day here, if you are a wine-lover, you won’t want to miss Scotsdale Rd. Wind through the hills behind the coastal township of Denmark for what I would argue are some of WA’s best wineries (they just don’t shout about it as loud as Margaret River but trust me, you’ll be spoilt!!!)

A great family place to stop for a feed on the South Coast Highway is Boston Brewing Co. They have a huge garden area and playground for the sunny days, as well as a lovely warm restaurant with fire for the winter months.

Another up and coming boutique star to try just before you get to Albany is Wilson Brewing Co . (It’s definitely a designated driver day!)

We talk more about family-friendly wineries in the Great Southern region here.

Where to stay near Denmark

There are plentiful accommodation choices just in Denmark, though many holiday homes are better suited to longer stays.  Otherwise, head onward to Albany which is another 40 minutes drive and make this your base for the next two nights.

Day 7 Albany

Albany is one of the country’s most dramatic coastal towns with an incredibly rich history.  It is, in fact, WA’s oldest city being settled in 1826 as one of the first military outposts of New South Wales (it pre-dates Fremantle).

You can see our full range of family-friendly activity suggestions in and around Albany here.

We recommend you start with a morning at the Albany Heritage Park,   Mount Adelaide and Mount Clarence.  Here you will find the National ANZAC Centre and stunning views over the city from the highest vantage points as well as several memorials and exhibits from World War I and World War II.

Spend a little time in Albany High Street – if it’s raining the little WA Museum here makes an excellent refuge! Kids will no doubt want to explore the Brig Amity replica ship, very popular with the little ones.

In the afternoon, head out to the Vancouver Peninsular and Torndirrup National Park.  Once again, there are some stunning beaches.   At the end of the peninsular, you will come to whaling cove and the historic Discovery Bay Whaling Centre . It is an interesting visit, but if you’re short on time, I would save your money and stick with the spectacular natural attractions.

The most dramatic ocean stops await at the Gap & Natural Bridge and the Blowholes.  Hold on to the kids because it can be mighty blustery even on a calm day (The blowholes are not suitable for small children). The Gap has seen major infrastructure put in place so visitors can stand on a viewing platform while watching the stunning show beneath as waves fiercely crash into the rock face, a true force of nature. 

Want to add some extra days from Albany? If time permits, keep travelling east and keep enjoying the spectacular southern ocean coastline.  Our all-time favourite little patch of beach (albeit I need to shut up about it as every year more and more people are there, even in winter!) is Little Beach in Two People’s Bay.  It is that perfect. 

It goes without saying as with anywhere along this south coast, watch the tides and changes in the ocean.  Never leave kids unsupervised near the water and watch for sudden winds. 

Further afield again, you could keep heading on to Bremer Bay, 180kms further east. A much smaller town but an excellent spot for whale spotting. If you are visiting during January to March you may catch the killer whale season in the Bremer Canyon.

Where to stay in Albany

Albany has a huge range of accommodation offerings to suit all budgets.  For families, we recommend the calm waters of Middleton Beach or Emu Point with its plentiful playgrounds and access to the Ellen Cove walk.

We recommend Big 4 Middleton Beach for camping and onsite cabins, or try Emu Point Motel. There are a great number of longer-term rentals around Albany too, or more motel style accommodation closer to town. 

Route Alternative: At this point, most travellers on a tight schedule head back to Perth, but as part of a longer 2-week round-trip, you can extend your road trip along the south coast to Esperance (480km/ 5 hours). You return journey could then take you further into the Wheatbelt and past Wave Rock (approx. 8 hours return). Learn more about travelling from Perth to Esperance here.

Day 8 Albany to Perth 

Albany to perth, via the porongurups, is 5 hours driving.

You can return directly to Perth up the Albany Highway, but there still plenty of stops you can make along the way depending on time.  The direct drive will take you 4.5 hours but we recommend more stops along the way to make a full day of it.

The first stop is Mount Barker and its award-winning bakery for breakfast, then head slightly east from Mount Barker to visit the Porongurups .  An easy(ish!) morning walk is up Castle Rock and the Granite Skywalk. A fairly steep 45-minute uphill climb then some scrambling at the top to be rewarded with these views. 

As part of an extended trip down south you could take on the Stirling Ranges too, the highest point in Western Australia – often hitting the news when on the occasional coldest days of winter the peaks experience snowfall!

The drive home up the Albany Highway is rather flat and straight from this point. Williams is a nice town to make a snacking stop before climbing back through the forests of Jarrahdale andthe dramatic mountainous decent into Armadale and Perth city.

Where to stay in Fremantle

We recommend if you haven’t hit the coast near Perth yet, make your way to Fremantle for your last night. Try Quest Fremantle or Tradewinds Hotel. 

Day 9 Fremantle

Spend your final day in Fremantle before departure exploring the port city – locals will tell you they are two different cities but the sprawl of suburbs it’s hard to tell!

Fremantle is undoubtedly the industrial port but also has a unique charm that lures visitors to enjoy fish and chips on the harbour, explore the markets and the many museums. 

You can see a full guide to exploring Fremantle here.

With a little longer on your itinerary, you will want to add either a day trip or spend a few nights out at “Rotto”. Rottnest Island is a favourite with Perth families for its calm bays and car-free roads made for family cycling trips, and adorable quokkas, of course!

• See Freo to Rottnest Ferry Package options here .
• Day packages to Rottnest

The practicalities – how to road trip in Western Australia

We have a comprehensive guide on road tripping the whole state of Western Australia here , but assuming you are just tackling the South West corner, here are a few further ideas to help you plan your trip:

• Beware WA school holidays – it is exceptionally busier during the Western Australia school holidays& public holiday weekends.
• Weekends in the Margaret River region are also much busier with weekend trippers from Perth. If you can visit outside of Friday/Saturday/Sunday things might be much quieter. 
• Don’t be surprised though once you’re off the main tourist drag, many smaller businesses may be shut early in the week, only opening say Thu-Sun.

• The roads are undulating and windy; towns certainly do not connect in straight lines and speed limits vary for the conditions.  This makes it a great excuse to explore small town WA.  There are many claims to fame of having the best park or the best stopover, best bakery, you name it – this corner of the world is just thriving for that “quick stop” on the side of the road so plan your day by day progress carefully! 
• Watch for limited kms when hiring a car.  More of an issue when you hire a car in the more remote parts of Australia, they will limit the number of kilometres you can do per day without extra charge – always read the fine print.
• If driving near sunset especially, keep your eye out for ‘roos. You should always use headlights on the highways.
• Driving is on the left side of the road (steering wheel on the right) and speed limits strictly enforced.
• Like all good travellers – make sure you take out travel insurance! 

Use this comprehensive Skyscanner planning tool to price out the different parts of your WA Trip

A two week perth to the south west itinerary.

Ask anyone in Perth and I am sure they will tell you a week is nowhere near long enough to explore down south. This itinerary is just a taster so you can see what’s available and the distance that needs to be covered.

We’d highly recommend at a minimum you double this itinerary to two weeks to make the most of it and settle into places for longer.  A two-week itinerary for the south west of WA could look like:

Day 1-2: Perth

Day 3: Pinjarra & Bunbury

Day 4: Busselton & Dunsborough

Day 5-7: Margaret River & Augusta

Day 8-9: The Southern Forests

Day 10-12: Denmark & Albany

Day 13-14: Fremantle & Rottnest  

It’s entirely up to you – tailor your holiday to your families love of beaches, nature & fresh produce – there is an abundance of all of our favourite things in this most amazing corner of the world!

Bookmark this page or save it to Pinterest for later

Want to catch more of our Australian Adventures? 

Don’t miss our guides to:

• Best Australian animal encounters
• Port Douglas & things to do with kids in tropical north Queensland
• Essential stops on a Queensland Road Trip
• Broome with Kids
• Brisbane with Kids
• Unique Sydney experiences with Kids
• Melbourne with kids

Disclosures: This article contains affiliate links.  If you click on these links it may earn a small income for this blog.   Our full disclosure policy and website terms of use can be found here.,

© Our Globetrotters

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3 thoughts on “ Exploring WA’s South West – a spectacular 9-day road trip from Perth ”

Thanks Globetrotters, this is a really great guide that will help plan a holiday in the Southwest.

I saved your Pin to pinterest as well, hopefully people find it!

SO glad I found this itinerary! We have been considering a loop in South West Australia and couldn’t work out how long we would need when travelling with kids. Good to know it is achievable in 9 days and for the guidance on key stops.

Definitely do-able in 9 but you’d still need to do a lot of moving around every day or two

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These Are the Best Road Trips in Australia

Posted: June 4, 2023 | Last updated: August 3, 2023

Ultimate drives Down Under

Alice Springs to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory

After getting to know Alice’s many charms, head into the desert. Take a refreshing dip in Ellery Creek Big Hole in the MacDonnell Ranges before the long drive to Kings Canyon – stretch your legs exploring its steep sandstone cliffs and palm-filled crevices and drink in the blazing desert-scapes. Keep watch for thorny devils, magnificently spiky little lizards. Next up is the country’s most famous landmark, Uluru and the equally bewitching rock dome formation Kata Tjuta.

Sydney to Ulladulla, New South Wales

Rainforests, whales, wines and beaches, glorious beaches, are the reason to put this coastal drive on top of your hit list. Circuit south from Sydney to Royal National Park where you can follow near-empty bush trails through rainforest to wild surf beaches, lagoons and rock pools. Then follow on along Princes Highway to Wollongong – crossing the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge. Next up is Kiama with its famous blowholes, chilled seaside vibe and pleasing coastal trails, perfect for stretching limbs before you hit the road again.

Mainline for Nowra on the southern shore of the Shoalhaven River – factor in time to slip off to Greenwell Point, a gorgeous fishing village to slurp oysters then head for Huskisson, hub of Jervis Bay with its string of icing-sugar-esque sands. Greenfields and Murrays in Booderee National Park are standouts. Get on the water to spot dolphins, fur seals and migrating humpback whales (May to November) then veer inland to explore vineyards and country towns or make a beeline for coastal villages Mollymook (home to chef Rick Stein’s Aussie outpost) and Ulladulla.

Adelaide to Coober Pedy, South Australia

Visitors to South Australia are spoilt for road trips whether it’s coast, vines or outback scenery they’re looking for. The Explorer’s Way route takes you from Adelaide’s beaches past the cellar doors of Clare Valley (pick up some riesling to toast your progress later) and onto the rural townships of the Flinders – Melrose is the oldest town in the Flinders Ranges and well worth a wander to experience its archetypal outback charm. 

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Take a detour off the main highway to experience the incredible wilderness of the Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park from its remote homesteads to age-old rock art and the remarkable rock basin Wilpena Pound. Then head back to Port Augusta for the long, and fairly sight-free (bar the dazzlingly white salt bed Lake Hart), stretch north up to opal mining town Coober Pedy. Up for more? Carry on north to follow the full-length of the 1,864-mile (3,000km) Explorer’s Way journey all the way to Darwin.

McLaren Vale to Kangaroo Island, South Australia

You’re close to Cape Jervis now, the very tip of the peninsula and where car ferries cross to Kangaroo Island. Expect more belting beaches (Emu and Vivonne Bay among them) and wildlife galore. It’s a good idea to forget the car for a few days. Not just to enjoy the island’s wines and artisan spirits but to follow its many bushwalking trails – the vast Flinders Chase National Park has the famed Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch while Seal Bay is the place to see the adorable Australian sea lions at play. 

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Sydney to Byron Bay, New South Wales

Prepare to be wowed only further by the glorious coastline as you edge upwards. Among the highlights are the wild dolphins and whopping great sand dunes in Port Stephens (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere), Blueys Beach in Pacific Palms and Coffs Harbour. Call in at Yamba, touted as the new Byron with its hipster credentials, before you wind through the hinterland to beautiful Byron – a little bit boho, a little bit bling and a whole lot of fun. 

Orford to St Helens, Tasmania

If you were to pick one road trip in Tassie it would most likely be the Great Eastern Drive, which curves down along the island state’s impossibly gorgeous east coast. Start from either St Helens in the north or Orford in the south and buckle up for some soul-stirring scenery along its 109 miles (176km). You could easily manage it over a weekend, but take your time to enjoy longer bushwalks, lazy lunches at cellar doors and a trip across to Maria Island National Park to see convict ruins and walk with wombats.

You’ll pass lovely laid-back towns like Swansea and Bicheno (with wineries and artisan producers aplenty to stock up for picnics) and the Freycinet Peninsula. This is where you’ll find Tasmania’s most famous beach, the curved Wineglass Bay. Follow trails around the Hazards and onto the park’s beaches and coves to swim, kayak or snorkel. The grand finale of the route is the Bay of Fires with its striking lichen-clad boulders and white sand beaches. Time to stretch those car-weary legs: follow the one-hour return walk from St Helens to the Peron Dunes and the vast ocean beach or set off on the Bay of Fires Walk, a four-day guided hike.

Townsville to Cooktown, Queensland

Rainforest, reef, waterfalls and islands: this classic east coast road trip teems with tropical treats. Start in Townsville and you’ll see fruit plantations, sugar cane farms and coastal towns flit past your window. Stop in Mission Beach to spy cassowaries in the rainforest or nip over to Dunk Island. From here head to Cairns for a fun few days then hit Captain Cook Highway to cruise along the palm-fringed Coral Sea coastline to pretty Palm Cove and Port Douglas – stay a while for boat trips out to the Great Barrier Reef.  

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Discover the wonders of the Daintree, an ancient home of the Kuku Yalanji people, on walking tours with traditional owners to uncover the rainforest’s many secrets. Cross over the Daintree River by car ferry (stopping to spot vast saltwater crocodiles among the mangroves) and make for Cape Tribulation, a ravishing peninsula where the rainforest tumbles right down to meet the reef. To reach the even more secluded Cooktown, you’ll need a four-wheel drive to bump your way along the Bloomfield Track. 

Torquay to Allansford, Victoria

It's pretty obvious why this world-famous driving route is known as the Great Ocean Road – it is truly great. In fact, it’s glorious. Endless ocean vistas, surf-lashed wild beaches, towering cliffs and wildlife encounters aplenty. There are numerous beach towns with fab places to stay and eat too. While the coast hogs the limelight, be sure to follow meandering trails through forests of mountain ash and towering gum trees to find waterfalls and spy echidnas, koalas, wallabies and kangaroos. 

Torquay marks the start of the 116-mile (187km) route with Bells Beach (of Point Break fame) and pretty seaside town Lorne must-stops. Pick up fish and chips to eat on the beach or stroll along its pier. The approach to Apollo Bay is full of eye-popping oceanscapes so factor in plenty of stops at lookouts. From here the road leads into the lush Otway National Park –  you can detour to Cape Otway light station to look over the point where the Bass Strait meets the Southern Ocean. The final leg leads to Port Campbell National Park and its famed rock formations: the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the Grotto. 

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Derby to Kununurra, Western Australia

In the far northwest corner, Kimberley is one of the last great wildernesses of Australia and ripe for a road trip adventure. Its famed four-wheel drive track, the Gibb River Road, strikes through some of its most dramatic landscapes across 410 miles (660km), offering rich rewards for intrepid drivers that have around 12 days to spare. First up after Derby are the cascades and gorges of Windjana Gorge National Park within the Napier Ranges followed by the Bell Gorge in the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges Conservation Park.

After following trails to lofty lookouts and rock shelters etched with age-old art, drivers on the long-distance route, which was built in the 1960s to transport cattle from remote stations to Derby and Wyndham, tend to stay the night in designated campgrounds, cabins or homesteads on sprawling cattle station grounds. It’s not just the days that are full of thrills – the stars in this utterly remote part of the world are incredible. 

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Brisbane to Birdsville, Queensland

Up for big blue skies, rugged landscapes and a long and dusty drive? Four-wheel drive owners should opt for this far-flung foray from Brisbane into Queensland's parched plains and sand dunes. Get to know the charms of rural towns Toowoomba (known as the Garden City) and Goondiwindi before you call into the state’s oldest watering hole, the Nindigully Pub on the banks of the Moonie River. It dates back to 1864. Carry on west and the rolling grazing country turns to wild mulga scrub with the colours shifting gear from greens to sunburnt reds.  

After a scattering of fascinating far-flung towns like Charleville and Quilpie things really start to get intrepid. From Windorah, a gravel road takes you to the unfathomably remote Birdsville on the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert. After a well-deserved rest and cold drink or two at the Birdsville Hotel, head to the Big Red sand dune to watch the sunset. From here you could follow more dusty tracks through boundless gibber plains and past sprawling sheep and cattle stations scattered with the ruins of old woolsheds and homesteads. 

Darwin-Kakadu-Katherine, Northern Territory

Start in steamy tropical city Darwin and follow the Arnhem Highway east towards Kakadu National Park. En route, spot crocs, jabiru, kingfishers and magpie geese on an airboat safari on the floodplains of the Mary River system, before arriving at Kakadu. Whether you camp or hole up in a luxury wilderness lodge, make sure you plan in a good few days to explore this vast wilderness with its wildlife-filled wetlands and hulking sandstone escarpments rich in ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries and thundering falls.

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Next up, steer south along the Kakadu Highway towards Katherine, a cool town with hot springs and the ravishing Nitmiluk Gorge on its doorstep. Spend the next few days following bushwalking trails around the park to uncover the stories and rock art of the Jawoyn people, and canoeing along the steep-sided gorge. If time allows, drive just south for a soak in the warm pools of Elsey National Park then wend your way back along the Stuart Highway – in just three hours you'll be enjoying an icy cold beer by Darwin’s waterfront.

Sydney to Melbourne, various

Known as the Big Lap, the road-trip-to-end-all-road-trips circumnavigates the coast of Australia following Highway One as it connects Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth, Esperance, Adelaide and Melbourne. Covering a distance of 9,010 miles (14,500km) with endless things to see and do, most people take at least six months to complete the trip. But ideally set aside longer, especially if you plan to divert deeper into the country’s vast interior to explore the many must-see sights of the outback. 

If you start in Sydney follow the east coast all the way to Cairns from where you route onto the Savannah Way – this stretch alone is a staggering 2,299 miles (3,700km) that links the tropical Queensland city with the Northern Territory’s Top End and Broome in Western Australia’s Kimberley. Another remarkable portion is the road that strikes a poker-straight route across the Nullarbor Plain, past the towering Bunda Cliffs and onto South Australia’s endlessly epic Eyre Peninsula. With experiences like this, you’ll get a taste for life on the road. Next stop, Tasmania?

Melbourne to Bright, Victoria

Highs and lows are par for the course with any trip, but follow the road from Melbourne to Victoria’s High Country wine regions and the only ones you have to worry about are the pretty peaks and verdant valleys you encounter. From Melbourne, meander to Mansfield and King Valley, known as Little Italy as Italians established the vines here and the influence remains strong. From here more boutique wineries, along with bushranger history, await in Glenrowan, with its links to notorious Ned Kelly. 

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Head north towards the Murray River and the Rutherglen wine region to wend your way around more cellar doors. A scenic climb up through Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park takes you to Beechworth, a beaut of a gold-rush era town with a rich offering of restaurants, shops and heritage buildings. Linger as long as you like then follow the gorgeous drive to the Alpine Valleys wine region, scattered with welcoming family-owned wineries, all with stunning views. Finally, it's on to Bright, perfectly positioned for bushwalks into Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park.

Perth to Esperance, Western Australia

Towering waves, giant trees found nowhere else on Earth and kangaroos lounging on the whitest of white sands, the sprawling South West Edge road trip from Perth to Esperance on the state’s southern coast is as surreal as it is spectacular. The 746-mile (1,200km) route is best taken over 12 days to allow the adventures plenty of time to unfold. After Bunbury, the Margaret River is a delightful region to meander around from coastal tracks and surf beaches with mesmerising Indian Ocean sunsets, to vineyards and farmers' markets.  

Edging further to the state’s southern coast, you can gaze up (or down) at giant tingle trees at Valley of the Giants, which has an elevated walkway, and the karri trees, only found in this region. The bizarre-shaped boulders and enticing waters of Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool in William Bay National Park are other must stops followed by Albany, Hopetoun and Fitzgerald River National Park. Esperance is a suitably incredible end with its lagoons and beaches – be sure to squeeze in the Great Ocean Drive loop and Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park to spot the sun-baking ’roos.

Perth to Broome, Western Australia

Back on National Route 1, make for Hamelin Bay (check out its stromatolites) and Monkey Mia in the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Shark Bay. Here catamaran cruises take you to meet its bottlenose dolphins and spot dugongs, sharks and turtles. Coral Bay and Exmouth are the places to linger awhile for lazy beach days and snorkelling and diving on the incredible Ningaloo Reef (where whale sharks gather en masse between March and June). Finish up in tropical beach town Broome with its striking red cliff-backed beaches, heritage buildings and chilled vibe.

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