Australia is a vast and diverse country, offering some of the world's most spectacular road trip experiences. From coastal drives with breathtaking ocean views to outback adventures through the red heart of the country, there's something for every traveler. Here are our top 10 road trip destinations in Australia that should be on your bucket list.
1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Perhaps Australia's most famous road trip, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometers along Victoria's stunning coastline. The journey takes you past iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. The winding road offers spectacular views of the Southern Ocean, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, and even whales during migration season.
2. The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia
For those seeking a true outback adventure, crossing the Nullarbor Plain is an epic journey. This 1,200-kilometer stretch of road includes the longest straight section of road in Australia (and one of the longest in the world), stretching 146 kilometers without a single turn. The name "Nullarbor" comes from Latin, meaning "no trees," which perfectly describes this vast, open landscape.
3. The Great Tropical Drive, Queensland
This circular route through Tropical North Queensland takes you through World Heritage-listed rainforests, stunning beaches, and the Great Barrier Reef. Starting from Cairns, you can explore the Atherton Tablelands, Mission Beach, and the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world.
4. The Gibb River Road, Western Australia
For 4WD enthusiasts, the Gibb River Road through the Kimberley region offers an unforgettable adventure. This 660-kilometer dirt road takes you through stunning gorges, past magnificent waterfalls, and across vast cattle stations. It's a challenging drive that requires preparation, but the rewards are immense.
5. Tasmania's East Coast
Tasmania's East Coast offers a perfect combination of stunning beaches, historic towns, and national parks. The Great Eastern Drive from Hobart to the Bay of Fires features white sandy beaches, granite mountains tinged with orange lichen, and the iconic Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park.
6. The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
Explore the heart of Australia on this circular route from Alice Springs, taking in iconic landmarks such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), and Kings Canyon. The vibrant red landscape and cultural significance of these sites make for an unforgettable journey.
7. The Pacific Coast, New South Wales to Queensland
This coastal drive from Sydney to Brisbane takes you through charming beach towns, lush hinterland, and stunning coastal scenery. Highlights include the Hunter Valley wine region, Byron Bay, and the Gold Coast.
8. The Savannah Way, Queensland to Western Australia
This epic 3,700-kilometer journey crosses the top of Australia from Cairns to Broome, traversing through tropical savannahs, wetlands, and gorges. It's a true adventure that showcases the diversity of Australia's northern landscapes.
9. The Great Alpine Road, Victoria
Winding through Victoria's High Country, this 339-kilometer route takes you from Wangaratta to Metung on the Gippsland Lakes. The journey includes mountain ranges, deep valleys, wine regions, and historic gold mining towns.
10. The Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
Often overlooked by international visitors, the Eyre Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and delicious seafood. The Seafood Frontier route takes you through charming fishing towns and offers opportunities for whale watching, swimming with sea lions, and cage diving with great white sharks.
Tips for Your Australian Road Trip
- Always check road conditions before setting off, especially for outback routes
- Ensure your vehicle is suitable for the journey and in good condition
- Carry plenty of water, especially in remote areas
- Plan your fuel stops carefully as some remote areas have limited service stations
- Be aware of wildlife, particularly at dawn and dusk
- Consider renting a vehicle with BarakaRentals for a hassle-free experience
Australia's vast and varied landscape makes it perfect for road trip adventures. Whether you're looking for coastal scenery, outback experiences, or wildlife encounters, there's a road trip route that will create memories to last a lifetime.
