Australia's vast and diverse landscapes make it the perfect country to explore by road. From coastal drives with breathtaking ocean views to outback adventures through the red heart of the continent, road trips offer the freedom to discover Australia at your own pace. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most iconic Australian road trips that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Perhaps Australia's most famous road trip, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometers along Victoria's spectacular southern coast. Built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932, this heritage-listed route combines dramatic coastal scenery, rainforest, and charming seaside towns.

Highlights:

  • The Twelve Apostles: These iconic limestone stacks rising majestically from the Southern Ocean are the road's most photographed attraction. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
  • Loch Ard Gorge: Named after an 1878 shipwreck, this stunning formation tells the dramatic story of survival and loss on the Shipwreck Coast.
  • Great Otway National Park: Detour inland to discover lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the magical glow worm grottos at Melba Gully.
  • Bells Beach: Famous for its powerful surf breaks and the annual Rip Curl Pro competition, this is a must-stop for surf enthusiasts.
  • Seaside towns: Charming coastal communities like Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell offer perfect overnight stops with excellent dining options showcasing local seafood.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 243 kilometers (Melbourne to Allansford)
  • Recommended time: 2-3 days minimum, 5-7 days ideal
  • Best time to visit: Year-round, but shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds
  • Starting point: Torquay, 100 kilometers from Melbourne

The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory

Experience the spiritual heart of Australia on this circular route through the Northern Territory's Red Centre. Connecting Alice Springs with iconic sites like Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), and Kings Canyon, this drive showcases the otherworldly landscapes and rich Indigenous culture of Australia's interior.

Highlights:

  • Uluru: Witness the changing colors of Australia's most famous natural landmark at sunrise and sunset. Join a guided tour with Traditional Owners to learn about the rock's cultural significance.
  • Kata Tjuta: Often overshadowed by Uluru, these 36 weathered rock domes offer spectacular hiking trails and equally impressive sunset views.
  • Kings Canyon: Tackle the rim walk for breathtaking views over the sheer sandstone cliffs and the lush Garden of Eden waterhole below.
  • West MacDonnell Ranges: Discover a series of dramatic gorges, natural swimming holes, and ancient landscapes, including Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Ormiston Gorge.
  • Stargazing: Experience the clearest night skies imaginable, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and photographers.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 1,135 kilometers (loop from Alice Springs)
  • Recommended time: 5-7 days
  • Best time to visit: April to September, when daytime temperatures are more moderate
  • Road conditions: Partially sealed. The Mereenie Loop section requires a permit and a 4WD vehicle is recommended, though a 2WD alternative is available via the sealed Ernest Giles Road

The Great Barrier Reef Drive, Queensland

This relatively short but spectacularly scenic coastal drive connects Cairns with Cape Tribulation, offering the rare opportunity to experience two World Heritage sites side by side: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Highlights:

  • Palm Cove: Start with breakfast at this charming beach community known for its palm-lined esplanade and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Port Douglas: Explore the sophisticated resort town, with its boutique shopping, dining, and the stunning Four Mile Beach.
  • Mossman Gorge: Take a guided Dreamtime Walk with Indigenous guides to learn about the cultural significance of this pristine rainforest ecosystem.
  • Daintree River Crossing: The vehicle ferry marks your entry into the ancient Daintree Rainforest, the world's oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest.
  • Cape Tribulation: Where the rainforest truly meets the reef. Walk on the beach where Captain Cook's troubles began when his ship struck the reef in 1770.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 140 kilometers one-way
  • Recommended time: 2-4 days
  • Best time to visit: May to October during the dry season
  • Road conditions: Fully sealed to Cape Tribulation; 4WD required to continue north on the Bloomfield Track

The Savannah Way, Queensland/Northern Territory/Western Australia

One of Australia's ultimate adventure drives, the Savannah Way traverses the tropical north from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia. This epic journey crosses three states and territories, 15 national parks, and five World Heritage areas.

Highlights:

  • Undara Lava Tubes: Explore one of the longest lava tube systems in the world, formed by volcanic eruptions around 190,000 years ago.
  • Cobbold Gorge: Queensland's youngest gorge, featuring narrow sandstone cliffs, can be explored by guided boat tours or the spectacular glass bridge.
  • Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park: Paddle through emerald waters in this outback oasis, home to the spectacular Lawn Hill Gorge.
  • Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk): Cruise or canoe through this system of 13 stunning gorges carved through ancient sandstone.
  • Kimberley Region: Discover one of Australia's last wilderness frontiers, with highlights including the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, and the Gibb River Road.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 3,700 kilometers
  • Recommended time: 3-4 weeks minimum
  • Best time to visit: May to September (dry season)
  • Vehicle requirements: 4WD essential for many sections

The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales

Beginning just south of Sydney, this coastal drive features the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, which curves dramatically around the cliffside above the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

Highlights:

  • Royal National Park: The world's second-oldest national park features diverse landscapes from coastal cliffs to rainforest.
  • Sea Cliff Bridge: This engineering marvel offers pedestrian access alongside the road, perfect for capturing spectacular ocean views.
  • Kiama: Visit the famous Kiama Blowhole, where water can spout up to 25 meters high during the right conditions.
  • Jervis Bay: Home to some of the world's whitest sand beaches and abundant marine life, including dolphins and migrating whales.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 140 kilometers
  • Recommended time: 1-3 days
  • Best time to visit: Year-round, with whale watching opportunities from May to November
  • Road conditions: Fully sealed, suitable for all vehicles

The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia/Western Australia

Crossing the Nullarbor Plain is an iconic Australian road trip experience. The name "Nullarbor" comes from Latin for "no trees," and this vast limestone plateau lives up to its name with an almost treeless landscape stretching to the horizon in all directions.

Highlights:

  • Eyre Peninsula: Before hitting the Nullarbor proper, explore this spectacular coastal region known for its seafood and marine wildlife.
  • Great Australian Bight: Stop at the lookouts to view the dramatic cliffs where the desert meets the Southern Ocean, and watch for whales between June and October.
  • Nullarbor Links Golf Course: Play the world's longest golf course, with 18 holes spread across 1,365 kilometers.
  • Cocklebiddy Cave: One of the world's largest cave systems, stretching more than 6 kilometers underground.
  • Eucla Telegraph Station: Discover the ruins of this historic site, partially buried by shifting sand dunes.

Practical Information:

  • Distance: 1,200 kilometers (Port Augusta to Norseman)
  • Recommended time: 3-5 days
  • Best time to visit: April to October, avoiding the extreme summer heat
  • Road conditions: Fully sealed, but very remote. Carry extra fuel, water, and supplies

Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Preparation

  • Have your vehicle serviced before departure, especially for longer or remote drives.
  • For outback journeys, consider renting a 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance.
  • Learn basic vehicle maintenance like checking oil and water levels and changing a tire.

Safety Considerations

  • Carry plenty of water (at least 4-5 liters per person per day for outback travel).
  • Pack a first aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
  • For remote areas, consider carrying a satellite phone or personal locator beacon.
  • Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
  • Check road conditions before departing, particularly during the wet season in northern Australia.

Accommodation Options

  • Book accommodation in advance for popular routes during peak seasons.
  • Consider diverse options from motels and caravan parks to unique stays like station homesteads or glamping.
  • For flexibility, traveling with a campervan or camping equipment allows you to stay in national parks and remote locations.

Australia's vast and diverse landscapes are perfect for road trip adventures, offering everything from short scenic drives to epic cross-continental journeys. Whether you're hugging the coastline with views of crystal-clear waters, traversing the red heart of the outback, or winding through ancient rainforests, hitting the road is one of the best ways to experience the true essence of Australia.

Remember that distances in Australia can be deceptive – it's not just about the kilometers but also about the many incredible places to stop and explore along the way. Take your time, drive safely, and embrace the journey as much as the destination.