There's something magical about hitting the open road in Australia – a land of vast distances, dramatically changing landscapes, and unexpected discoveries around every corner. Whether you're seeking coastal beauty, outback adventure, or cultural experiences, an Australian road trip delivers unforgettable memories. Here are our favorite road trip itineraries for exploring the Land Down Under on four wheels.

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The Classic Coastal Journey

Distance: 243 kilometers (151 miles)
Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
Best Time: Year-round, though summer (December-February) offers warmer beach weather and longer daylight hours

The Great Ocean Road is perhaps Australia's most famous scenic drive, and for good reason. This stunning coastal journey takes you along Victoria's dramatic southern edge, showcasing breathtaking ocean vistas, lush rainforests, and iconic rock formations.

Highlights:

• Twelve Apostles: These towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are the route's signature attraction. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic views and fewer crowds.
• Loch Ard Gorge: A beautiful, sheltered cove with a tragic shipwreck history, just minutes from the Twelve Apostles.
• Apollo Bay: A charming seaside town perfect for a seafood lunch and a stroll along the beach.
• Great Otway National Park: Take a detour inland to walk among ancient ferns and towering eucalyptus trees, and spot koalas in the wild.
• Bells Beach: Famous for its world-class surfing competitions, this beach near Torquay is a must for surf enthusiasts.

Insider Tip: While most visitors drive from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles and back in one day, consider driving from Melbourne to Warrnambool and then returning to Melbourne via inland routes. This allows more time to explore hidden beaches, rainforest walks, and charming towns like Port Fairy.

The Pacific Coast, New South Wales to Queensland

Beach Hopper's Paradise

Distance: 900 kilometers (560 miles) from Sydney to Brisbane
Ideal Duration: 7-10 days
Best Time: Spring (September-November) for mild temperatures and whale watching opportunities

Australia's east coast offers an incredible variety of beaches, laid-back towns, and lush hinterland areas. This route connecting Sydney and Brisbane showcases some of the country's most beloved coastal destinations.

Highlights:

• Port Stephens: Known as the "Blue Water Paradise," this area offers dolphin watching cruises, massive sand dunes for sandboarding, and 26 beautiful beaches.
• Port Macquarie: Visit the Koala Hospital, explore the Sea Acres Rainforest, and enjoy the numerous beaches and waterways.
• Coffs Harbour: Home to the iconic Big Banana and beautiful beaches, this is a perfect midway stopping point.
• Byron Bay: Australia's easternmost point has become a beloved haven for surfers, artists, and wellness enthusiasts. Don't miss the walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.
• Gold Coast: Famous for its surf beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife, the Gold Coast offers something for everyone.

Insider Tip: Take detours to the hinterland areas along this route. The Byron Bay hinterland offers charming towns like Bangalow and Newrybar, while the Gold Coast hinterland features the stunning Lamington National Park with its ancient rainforests and waterfalls.

The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory

Heart of Australia

Distance: 1,140 kilometers (708 miles) loop from Alice Springs
Ideal Duration: 5-7 days
Best Time: April to September (the cooler months) for comfortable daytime temperatures

For those seeking to experience the spiritual heart of Australia and its iconic red landscapes, this loop through the Red Centre is unbeatable. It combines famous landmarks with lesser-known gorges and sacred Indigenous sites.

Highlights:

• Uluru (Ayers Rock): Experience the changing colors of this sacred monolith at sunrise and sunset, and learn about its significance to the Anangu people through cultural tours.
• Kata Tjuta (The Olgas): Just 30 kilometers from Uluru, these 36 domed rock formations offer spectacular walking trails through ancient valleys.
• Kings Canyon: Take the rim walk for breathtaking views of the sheer sandstone walls, lost city of eroded dome formations, and the lush Garden of Eden waterhole.
• West MacDonnell Ranges: Explore dramatic gorges, swim in refreshing waterholes, and hike sections of the Larapinta Trail in this mountain range near Alice Springs.

Insider Tip: A 4WD vehicle is recommended for parts of this route, particularly the Mereenie Loop connecting Kings Canyon with the West MacDonnell Ranges. If you don't have a 4WD, you can still do this trip by taking the sealed highway via Alice Springs, though it adds extra distance.

The Great Tropical Drive, Queensland

Rainforests and Reef

Distance: 2,080 kilometers (1,292 miles)
Ideal Duration: 10-14 days
Best Time: May to October (the dry season) for pleasant temperatures and less rainfall

This spectacular journey loops from Cairns through the tropical north of Queensland, combining World Heritage-listed rainforests, stunning coastal drives, and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef.

Highlights:

• Port Douglas: A sophisticated resort town that serves as a gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
• Daintree Rainforest: The world's oldest tropical rainforest, where you can experience pristine wilderness and spot cassowaries if you're lucky.
• Cape Tribulation: The rare place where two World Heritage sites meet – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Atherton Tablelands: This fertile plateau offers waterfalls, crater lakes, and charming rural towns.
• Mission Beach: A laid-back coastal community with 14 kilometers of pristine beach, where the rainforest meets the sea.

Insider Tip: While the main route can be driven on sealed roads, consider adding the Bloomfield Track if you have a 4WD vehicle. This adventurous coastal route between Cape Tribulation and Cooktown takes you through rugged, untouched landscapes.

The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia

The Ultimate Outback Crossing

Distance: 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) for the Nullarbor section; approximately 2,700 kilometers (1,677 miles) from Adelaide to Perth
Ideal Duration: 7-10 days
Best Time: April to October for milder temperatures

For the ultimate Australian road trip adventure, it's hard to beat crossing the Nullarbor Plain. The name "Nullarbor" comes from Latin meaning "no trees," and this vast limestone plateau stretches as far as the eye can see. The journey includes driving on Australia's longest straight road – 146.6 kilometers without a single curve!

Highlights:

• Great Australian Bight: Dramatic cliff edges where you can watch for southern right whales between June and October.
• Bunda Cliffs: These spectacular sea cliffs extend for more than 100 kilometers along the Great Australian Bight.
• Eucla Telegraph Station: Partially buried by sand dunes, these ruins offer a glimpse into the area's communication history.
• Nullarbor Links Golf Course: The world's longest golf course spans 1,365 kilometers with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse.
• Cocklebiddy Cave: One of the world's largest underwater cave systems (though you'll need special equipment and permits to explore it).

Insider Tip: Preparation is essential for this remote journey. Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition, carry extra water and fuel, and let someone know your travel plans. Roadhouses are spaced every 200 kilometers or so, providing fuel, food, and accommodation.

The Gibb River Road, Western Australia

Kimberley Adventure

Distance: 660 kilometers (410 miles)
Ideal Duration: 7-14 days
Best Time: May to September (the dry season)

This legendary outback track cuts through the heart of the Kimberley region, one of Australia's last wilderness frontiers. Once a cattle route, the Gibb River Road now attracts adventurous travelers seeking to experience dramatic gorges, refreshing waterholes, and ancient landscapes.

Highlights:

• Windjana Gorge: Walk between the 100-meter-high walls carved through the Napier Range, spot freshwater crocodiles, and learn about the area's significance to Aboriginal people.
• Bell Gorge: One of the most photographed gorges in the Kimberley, featuring a stunning waterfall and swimming hole.
• Manning Gorge: Take a refreshing swim across the Manning River to reach the trail leading to this impressive waterfall and deep pool.
• Mitchell Falls: Though requiring a detour, this four-tiered waterfall is considered one of the most spectacular in Australia.
• El Questro Wilderness Park: This million-acre property offers gorges, thermal springs, and diverse accommodation options from camping to luxury.

Insider Tip: A 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance is essential for this journey. Road conditions can vary dramatically depending on the season and recent maintenance. Always check road conditions before departing, as the road is typically closed during the wet season (November to April).

Road Trip Planning Tips

Preparing for Australian Road Conditions

• Distances: Never underestimate the vast distances in Australia. Plan for regular breaks every two hours to avoid driver fatigue.
• Wildlife: Avoid driving at dawn, dusk, and night in rural areas when animals like kangaroos are most active.
• Fuel: In remote areas, fill up whenever you can as fuel stations may be hundreds of kilometers apart.
• Weather: Check seasonal conditions – roads may be closed due to flooding in the wet season or bushfires in summer.
• Communication: Mobile coverage is limited in remote areas. Consider hiring a satellite phone or personal locator beacon for outback journeys.
• Water: Always carry plenty of drinking water, particularly for outback trips.

Vehicle Selection

Choose your vehicle based on your planned routes:

• Standard 2WD vehicles are suitable for most coastal routes and major highways.
• For outback adventures like the Gibb River Road or parts of the Red Centre Way, a 4WD vehicle is essential.
• Campervans or motorhomes offer accommodation flexibility but may limit access to more remote areas.

Accommodation Options

Australia offers diverse accommodation choices for road trippers:

• Camping: From national park campgrounds to caravan parks with facilities.
• Motels and roadhouses: Common along major routes, offering basic but comfortable accommodation.
• Farm stays and station stays: Unique opportunities to experience rural Australian life.
• Boutique accommodations: Increasingly available even in remote areas for those seeking more luxury.

Australia's vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems make it one of the world's greatest road trip destinations. Whether you have a few days or several weeks, there's an Australian road trip itinerary to match your interests and timeframe. The open road awaits – time to start planning your Australian driving adventure!