13 Epic Australian Road Trips for Your Bucket List

Looking for the best Australian road trips? Here are 13 of the best from around the country.

Australia is made for road tripping. With vast landscapes, stunning coastlines, and hundreds and hundreds of kilometres of tarmac stretching around the country, there’s no shortage of amazing road trips to add to your bucket list.

I’ve asked fellow travel bloggers for their favourite road trips – and together we’ve curated 13 of the best Australian road trips that are sure to inspire your wanderlust. From quick getaways to epic, weeks-long journeys, each route comes with recommended stops, the ideal duration and a glimpse into what makes each trip unique.

So, get ready to hit the open road and explore this beautiful country on four wheels.

TOP TIP! One of the best ways to road trip Australia is via a campervan. It’s easy to rent a campervan in Australia and I recommend Motorhome Republic. Prefer to stick with a regular car for these Australian trips? Check prices and availability at DiscoverCars.

Brisbane to Cape Tribulation (Queensland)

This drive up the coast of Queensland includes plenty of beautiful beach stops and walks through the oldest rainforest in the world.

Brisbane – Rainbow Beach – K’gari Island – Bundaberg – Yeppoon – Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays – Townsville – Cairns – Daintree and Cape Tribulation

Highlights: 

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, the largest reef in the world
• Visit the ancient Daintree Rainforest, where two World Heritage Sites meet
• Cruise through the Whitsunday Islands
• See sugarcane fields and learn about the rum-making process
• Spot unique Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas, dingos and cassowaries

Distance: 1,800 kilometres

Number of days: 14+

When to go: May to October, during the dry season when temperatures will be cooler than during the hot Queensland summers. It’s also safer to swim in Far North Queensland during this time when the stingers aren’t out in force.

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The drive from Brisbane to Cape Tribulation ticks off many of the highlights of Queensland and is one of the best Australian road trips for the adventurous.

Leaving from Brisbane, you can opt to stop on the Sunshine Coast or in Noosa, but I recommend driving the four hours to Rainbow Beach. This beach gets its name from the many different colours of the sand. Here, you can hike through Carlo Sand Blow to see giant sand dunes – rent a sandboard to slide down them.

Take a day trip to K’gari Island from Rainbow Beach. The island is stunning, with lakes, hiking trails and a small river you can tube down. K’gari is known for the many dingoes that live on the island – be careful around them, as they have been known to bite people!

Slightly inland is Bundaberg, home to Australia’s famous Bundaberg Rum. The town has lots of sugarcane fields and you can take a tour of the rum factory as well as the Bundaberg Barrel, where they make their iconic ginger beer. While in Bundaberg, stop at the nearby Mon Repos Turtle Centre to learn about the loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs in this area.

A quick stop in Yeppoon or Mackay will break up the drive to Airlie Beach, home to the Whitsunday Islands. You can opt to see the Great Barrier Reef from here, though it is best to wait until you are further north for a shorter boat ride. Snorkelling tours are plentiful from Airlie Beach, and no trip is complete without seeing the beautiful white sandy Whitehaven Beach.

Continuing further north, drive up Castle Rock in Townsville for beautiful views of the city, and if you have time, detour to Magnetic Island for an overnight trip.

Sign up for a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Many options are available, including flights over the reef, snorkelling tours and scuba diving trips.  

After all this time at the beach, it’s time to head even further north, crossing the river by ferry and entering the Daintree Rainforest. Cape Tribulation is the furthest north that you can drive without 4WD.

Lanie from Make More Adventures

Darwin to Broome (Northern Territory and Western Australia)

Traverse the rugged and remote landscapes of Australia’s Top End and Kimberley regions from Darwin to Broome, filled with stunning natural wonders and unique cultural experiences.

Darwin – Katherine – Lake Argyle – Kununurra – Mimbi Caves – Derby – Broome

Highlights:

• Explore the gorges and hot springs around Katherine
• Marvel at Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the southern hemisphere
• Learn about Aboriginal culture and rock art at Mimbi Caves
• Experience the rich history and culture of Broome, including Cable Beach and its famous sunset camel rides

Distance: Approximately 1,870km one-way

Number of days: 10 days to 2 weeks

When to go: During the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more temperate, and the roads are accessible.

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Spanning more than 1,870 kilometres, this journey takes you from the tropical city of Darwin to the coastal town of Broome, passing through some of the most remote and scenic areas of the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Starting in Darwin, the trip heads south to Katherine, where you can explore the stunning Nitmiluk National Park, famous for its towering gorges and rejuvenating hot springs. Continue on to Lake Argyle near the town of Kununurra, to experience the vastness of Australia’s largest man-made lake. Here, you can take a boat cruise to spot freshwater crocodiles and birdlife.

The road trip also includes a stop at the Mimbi Caves, where you can experience a guided tour that showcases ancient Aboriginal rock art and the fascinating geological formations. Further along the route, Derby serves as a gateway to the wonders of the Kimberley region, including the Horizontal Falls and the iconic Boab trees.

The adventure culminates in Broome, a town rich in pearling history and known for its vibrant sunsets over Cable Beach. Here, you can unwind on the beach or enjoy a sunset camel ride.

East Coast Australia (Victoria, NSW and Queensland)

Award-winning beaches, world-class surfing, incredible coastal hikes and whale watching make the east coast of Australia the perfect road-tripping destination.

Melbourne – Lakes Entrance – Eden – Batemans Bay – Ulladulla – Hyams Beach – Berry – Royal National Park – Sydney – Nelson Bay – Forster – Crescent Head – Hat Head National Park – Nambucca Heads – Coffs Harbour – Lennox Head – Byron Bay – Gold Coast

Highlights:

• Spot migrating humpback whales from the small town of Eden on the Sapphire coast
• Visit Hyams Beach, which has the “world’s whitest sand”
• Discover secluded beaches and spot kangaroos and wallabies in Hat Head National Park
• Soak up the laidback, surfer vibes of small coastal towns like Crescent Head and Lennox Head
• Visit Australia’s most easterly point at the world-famous Byron Bay

Distance: 2100km

Number of days: 7-10 days

When to go: From October-March, the warmest months in Australia. To avoid the summer school holiday crowds, go in October/November or February. February has the warmest ocean temperatures. For whale-watching, go between June and November.

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This east coast road trip will show you exactly why Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and laidback lifestyle.

Starting from Melbourne, head east towards the coastal town of Lakes Entrance. Follow the A1 onto Eden, one of Australia’s best whale-watching destinations. The region has been affectionately nicknamed the “Humpback Highway” because of the sheer number of whales that pass through here on their way to and from Antarctica every year.

Continue on through the small coastal towns on New South Wales’ south coast until you reach Hyams Beach. Hyams Beach frequently appears on lists of the world’s best beaches. Just one look and you will see why!

Head north through the historic town of Berry to Royal National Park. Take a scenic hike to Wedding Cake Rock or the Instagram-famous Figure Eight Pools. Drive over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge or spend a few days exploring the city. There are more than 100 beaches in Sydney alone!

As you head further north, stop off and enjoy the pure holiday vibes of towns like Nelson Bay and Forster. Hike to secluded beaches in Hat Head National Park where there is a good chance you can have an entire beach all to yourself. If you’re lucky, you might get to share it with some eastern grey kangaroos.

Stop off at laidback surfer towns like Lennox Head before reaching the famous Byron Bay, an old hippy town that is now home to the rich and famous. Finally, cross the border into Queensland and enjoy the glitz of the Gold Coast.

Liza from Atlas Rambler Travel Guides

The Explorer’s Way – Adelaide to Darwin (South Australia and Northern Territory)

This epic 3,000km journey from Adelaide to Darwin along The Explorer’s Way goes through Australia’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged outback to lush national parks and iconic landmarks. It’s one of the most iconic Australian road trips to undertake.

Adelaide – Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park – Coober Pedy – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon – Alice Springs – Karlu Karlu – Daly Waters – Mataranka – Katherine – Kakadu – Litchfield – Darwin

Highlights:

• Experience the unique underground town of Coober Pedy
• Marvel at the majestic Uluru and the sacred sites of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
• Explore the dramatic Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park
• Relax in the natural thermal pools of Mataranka
• Discover the ancient Aboriginal rock art and stunning landscapes of Kakadu National Park

Distance: More than 3,000km one-way

Number of days: 10 days minimum

When to go: During the Australian winter (May to September) when temperatures are cooler.

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The Explorer’s Way is one of the most legendary Australia road trips, stretching from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north.

Starting in Adelaide, the journey begins with a trip through the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, where you can explore ancient mountain ranges and deep gorges. Continuing north, you’ll arrive in the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, famous for its underground homes and surreal, lunar-like landscape.

The road then leads to the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, where the iconic Uluru and the mystical rock formations of Kata Tjuta await. A visit to Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon is a must, with the Kings Canyon Rim hike the best way to see the areas towering cliffs and lush valleys.

As you head towards Alice Springs, stop at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), a sacred site with massive granite boulders. Further north, you’ll discover the hot springs of Mataranka and the historic Daly Waters Pub, a quintessential outback experience.

The final stretch of the journey takes you through Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, home to stunning waterfalls, wildlife and Aboriginal rock art, before arriving in the tropical city of Darwin.

Gibb River Road (Western Australia) 

The Gibb River Road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking adventure in the heart of the Kimberley, taking you to some of Australia’s most beautiful gorges and swimming holes.

Kununurra – El Questro – Pentecost River – Mitchell Falls – Ellenbrae Station – Manning Gorge –Galvans Gorge – Bell Gorge – Tunnel Creek – Windjana Gorge – Derby

Highlights:

• Experience the beauty of Emma Gorge at El Questro
• Tackle the adventurous crossing of the Pentecost River
• Try fresh scones at Ellenbrae Station
• Swim beneath the cascading waterfalls of Bell Gorge, Galvans Gorge and Manning Gorge
• Discover dramatic cliffs and ancient rock art at Windjana Gorge

Distance: 660 km (one way)

Number of days: 7 – 14 days

When to go: The best time to tackle the Gibb River Road is during the dry season (May to October). Flooding and road closures are common during the wet season (November to April). 

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The Gibb River Road is the ultimate Outback adventure, a rough road that was once a stock route. The 660-kilometre journey can be done in either direction, starting from Kununurra or Derby.

This Australian road trip takes you through some of the country’s most untouched wilderness. The road is rough and rugged, with plenty of water crossings, so a 4WD vehicle is essential.

The first stop after Kununurra is El Questro Wilderness Park, where you can relax in natural hot springs and enjoy a swim at Emma Gorge. As you continue your journey, you’ll cross the Pentecost River, with the Cockburn Ranges providing a stunning backdrop.

Stop at Ellenbrae Station for a fresh scone. A detour to Mitchell Falls is worth the effort, though it is known as one of the roughest roads in Australia.

Have a refreshing swim at both Manning Gorge and Galvans Gorge. A highlight of the trip is Bells Gorge, where you can swim between the towering gorge walls. As you travel further towards the western end of the road, you’ll discover Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek where you can spot freshwater crocodiles lurking in the water.

The road trip ends in Derby, from where you can start your next adventure and explore the amazing things to do in the Broome region. 

Aiden & Maddy from aidenandmaddy.com 

Grand Pacific Drive (NSW)

One of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the Grand Pacific Drive lets you drive across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge while taking in the spectacular NSW coastline.

Sutherland – Bald Hill –  Sea Cliff Bridge – Seaside towns in Illawarra – Kiama Blowhole – Nowra

Highlights:

• View the dramatic NSW coastline with views of the Sea Cliff Bridge from Bald Hill
• Drive across the Sea Cliff Bridge
• Discover the charming seaside towns of Clifton, Wombarra, Scarborough, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Kiama
• Visit the Kiama Blowhole
• Finish the drive in Nowra, a hub on the NSW South Coast

Distance: 140km 

Number of days: About 1.5 hours if you don’t stop, but you’d be mad not to, so the trip can last all day.

When to go: Anytime of year – although a clear sunny day is best so you can see the coastline. Being on the coast, it can get very windy, particularly on Bald Hill.

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The Grand Pacific Drive is an iconic Australian road trip. Starting in Sydney’s southern suburb of Sutherland you’ll drive through the Royal National Park to Bald Hill. Here, you’ll get fantastic views of the NSW coastline. Bald Hill is also a popular spot for hang gliders who you might see taking off and landing.

From Bald Hill follow the road over the Sea Cliff Bridge. This bridge was built in 2005 to replace a dangerous section of the previous road that hugged the coast that was prone to rockfalls. The s-shape of the bridge cantilevers out over the ocean. You can park at the end of the bridge and walk back over the bridge for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

From here, drive through coastal villages before arriving at Kiama. Kiama is known for its blowhole which hopefully will be blowing a treat when you visit. Kiama is a vibrant village on the Grand Pacific Drive with plenty of coffee shops to enjoy a meal.

Leaving Kiama, drive through coastal villages of Gerringong and Gerroa before arriving in Nowra. You could stay in Nowra or head back to Sydney along the Princes Highway. 

Sharyn from Discover Australia Now

Great Ocean Road (Victoria)

One of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the Great Ocean Road has dramatic coastal scenery, lush rainforests and the famous 12 Apostles.

Melbourne – Torquay – Lorne – Apollo Bay – Great Otway National Park – 12 Apostles – Port Campbell – Loch Ard Gorge – The Arch – Bay of Islands – Allansford – Melbourne

Highlights

• View the famous 12 Apostles and other striking rock formations along the coast
• Explore the lush landscapes of Great Otway National Park with its towering trees and waterfalls
• Discover the seaside towns of Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay
• Visit Loch Ard Gorge and learn about the famous shipwreck story
• Enjoy panoramic ocean views along the winding coastal drive

Distance: 600km round trip 

Number of days: 2-3 days minimum

When to go: The best time to drive the Great Ocean Road is during the Australian summer (December to February) for warm weather and clear skies. But it’s actually less crowded during the shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November).

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The Great Ocean Road is an iconic Australian road trip and a great way to experience Victoria’s coastal beauty. It’s one of the best Aussie road trips for its accessibility and ease.

Starting in Melbourne, this journey takes you along a winding road that hugs the rugged coastline. Continue on to Torquay, the surf capital of Australia, where you can soak up the sun on famous beaches like Bells Beach. As you drive towards Lorne, you’ll pass through cute seaside towns with lighthouses and more lovely beaches. Fish and chips on the beach each night is a must.

The Great Ocean Road itinerary continues through the dense rainforests of Great Otway National Park, with its towering trees and cascading waterfalls.

But the highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the 12 Apostles, a series of limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean. Nearby, you’ll find the dramatic Loch Ard Gorge.

As you travel further, visit iconic formations such as The Arch and Bay of Islands before reaching the end of the road trip in Allansford. Head inland to return to Melbourne.

The Great Eastern Drive (Tasmania)

Enjoy stunning coastal landscapes and beautiful beaches on Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive, one of Australia’s most scenic coastal roads. See fairy penguins nesting, discover Australia’s colonial history at UNESCO historic sites and enjoy delicious local produce along the way.

Devonport – Tamar Valley – Launceston – Saint Helens – Bay of Fires – Bicheno – Wineglass Bay and Freycinet Peninsula – Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula – Richmond – Hobart 

Highlights:

• Wine tasting and picturesque scenery in the Tamar Valley
• The dramatic landscapes of Cataract Gorge in Launceston
• The magical coastal scenery of Wineglass Bay, Binnalong Bay and the Bay of Fires, with powder-white sand, turquoise water and rocks covered in orange lichen
• Watch fairy penguins waddle ashore at Bicheno or Devonport (September to April)
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage historic sites at Port Arthur, Richmond and Hobart

Distance: 750 kilometres (Devonport to Hobart)

Number of days: Minimum 5 days

When to go: The best time to visit Tasmania is in the summer months from November to March when the weather is warm and sunny.  

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A road trip is the perfect way to explore Tasmania, Australia’s compact island state. But, to get there from the mainland you’ll need to fly to Launceston and hire a car, or take your car on the ferry. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry leaves from Geelong in Victoria and arrives at Devonport, which is around 100 kilometres from Launceston.

A scenic drive from Devonport to Launceston takes you through the lush green landscapes of the Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s premier wine-producing region. A highlight of visiting Launceston is exploring the dramatic Cataract Gorge. From there, it’s a couple hours’ drive to Saint Helens and the start of the Great Eastern Drive where the coastal scenery is simply magical.

Take a leisurely pace and soak in the stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches. Stop to swim at Binnalong Bay and the Bay of Fires where bright orange lichen covers the rocks and waves break on white sandy beaches. Dusk in Bicheno is the best time to see the fairy penguins as they come ashore under the cover of darkness to their nests on the beach.

Hike through the pristine national park of the Freycinet Peninsula to stunning Wineglass Bay, one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. Then discover Australia’s convict history at the Port Arthur ruins, set amidst the wild coastal landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula.

Stop to enjoy charming Richmond with its pretty Georgian cottages before continuing to Hobart, the capital of Tasmania and one of Australia’s oldest cities. Once a penal colony, Hobart’s Old Town has cobbled streets, a lovely waterfront area and plenty of historical charm.

To end this road trip, drop your hire car at Hobart airport and fly back to the mainland or return to Launceston (3 hours) or Devonport (4 hours).

Linda from Muy Linda Travels

The Nullarbor (Western Australia and South Australia)

One of Australia’s most remote roads, The Nullarbor is a rite of passage for road trippers. Across the Nullarbor Plain there are endless horizons, dramatic coastal cliffs and remote outback towns.

Norseman – Balladonia – Eucla – Border Village – Nullarbor Roadhouse – Ceduna

Highlights:

• Experience the remote and unique atmosphere of the Nullarbor roadhouses
• Marvel at the stunning Bunda Cliffs along the Great Australian Bight
• Spot southern right whales at the Head of Bight during the migration season

Distance: Approximately 2,700km one-way

Number of days: 3-5 days

When to go: The best time to drive the Nullarbor is between May and October when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for long stretches of driving.

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Crossing the Nullarbor (officially the Eyre Highway) is a quintessential Australian experience that involves traversing one of the most remote and iconic landscapes in the world.

The western end of the Nullarbor officially starts in Norseman, and it’s here that you’ll notice the landscape begins to change, becoming more arid and expansive. 

Along the trip, you’ll stop in at remote roadhouses, which serve as lifelines out here with fuel, food and a place to rest. Take a photo at the iconic Nullarbor Roadhouse and wander through its dusty museum.

Stop at the Bunda Cliffs along the Great Australian Bight, where the land meets the ocean in a dramatic display.

During the whale migration season (June to October), the Head of Bight is a must-visit for an incredible opportunity to see southern right whales up close. As you continue east, the Nullarbor officially ends in Ceduna.

There’s nothing quite like crossing the Nullarbor – come prepared with plenty of food, water and fuel and a sense of adventure. 

Perth to Broome (Western Australia)

This road trip from Perth to Broome hits the best of Western Australia’s stunning coastlines and national parks.

Perth – Cervantes – Kalbarri National Park – Shark Bay – Wooramel Station – Exmouth – Karijini National Park – Eighty Mile Beach – Broome

Highlights:

• Discover the remarkable Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park near Cervantes
• Explore the rugged beauty and coastal cliffs of Kalbarri National Park
• Dive into the underwater paradise of Ningaloo Reef near Exmouth
• Experience the dramatic gorges and waterfalls of Karijini National Park

Distance: Approximately 2,600km one-way

Number of days: At least 2 weeks

When to go: The best time for this road trip is during the cooler months from May to September.

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Western Australia is Australia’s most remote state and its largest. Its size means there’s everything from pristine beaches to rugged outback scenery, and the best way to see it all is on a Perth to Broome road trip. 

Starting in Perth, the trip quickly takes you to Cervantes, where the unique limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert will astound. Further north, Kalbarri National Park offers a striking contrast of coastal cliffs and inland gorges, perfect for hiking.

Continue north to Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can experience the natural beauty of the region and meet the famous wild dolphins of Monkey Mia. From there, a stop at Wooramel Station offers a taste of station life and a chance to soak in artesian bore baths under the stars.

Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef are next on the itinerary, where snorkelling among coral reefs and swimming with gentle whale sharks are the highlights.

The road then leads to Karijini National Park, one of Australia’s most beautiful national parks, renowned for its dramatic red gorges and waterfalls. 

The trip concludes with a drive to the tranquil Eighty Mile Beach, ideal for relaxation, before reaching the vibrant town of Broome. Here, you can unwind on Cable Beach, experience the town’s multicultural history and enjoy an iconic sunset camel ride.

Perth to Esperance (Western Australia)

Experience the wild and wonderful south coast of Western Australia on an epic road trip that showcases the region’s best natural attractions on the journey to Esperance, home to some of Australia’s most stunning beaches.

Perth – Margaret River – Denmark – Albany – Esperance – Perth 

Highlights:

• Savour fine wines and explore world-renowned surf breaks in Margaret River
• Wander among the treetops at the Valley of the Giants and relax at the iconic Elephant Rocks in Denmark
• Witness nature’s power while watching the crashing waves and dramatic coastal cliffs of the Gap and Natural Bridge on the south coast of Albany
• Discover some of Australia’s most vibrant blue waters and white sand beaches in Esperance
• Travel the inland route and visit the unique Wave Rock on the way back to Perth

Distance: ~1800 km round trip

Number of Days: 10 days minimum

When to go: The warmer months. Peak season is during the summer months from December to February, but travel during October-November or March-April for that sweet spot of sunny days with fewer travellers.

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Get ready for a scenic road trip along the south coast of Western Australia, travelling from Perth to Esperance via Margaret River, Denmark and Albany, and discover some of the region’s best natural attractions.

Spend at least two nights in Margaret River, where towering karri forests meet rolling vineyards in this renowned food and wine region. Don’t miss a stop at Hamelin Bay to spot the friendly sting rays, and take time to explore one of the area’s stunning limestone caves.

Continue on your journey through the Southern Forests region, passing through quaint country towns before reaching Denmark. Be sure to visit the Valley of the Giants Tree Top walk for a stroll among the treetops and explore the crystal-clear waters of Greens Pool and the iconic Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park.

Next, head to the port city of Albany, home to Torndirrup National Park with its raw natural beauty, including the dramatic Natural Bridge and the Gap formations. For the adventurous, the Bald Head trail offers a challenging but rewarding hike with endless coastal scenery.

Upon reaching Esperance, dedicate at least one day to exploring the stunning beaches of Cape Le Grand National Park, including the famous Lucky Bay, where kangaroos are known to frequent the beach. Spend another day discovering the attractions along the Great Ocean Drive – Esperance’s version – including pink salt lakes, breathtaking beaches and coastal lookouts.

Wrap up the memorable journey by taking the inland route back to Perth, stopping to visit the iconic Wave Rock along the way. 

Tess from Tessomewhere

Perth to Margaret River (Western Australia)

Experience the beauty of Western Australia’s coastline, indulge in renowned wineries and breweries, and discover charming coastal towns on this unforgettable road trip.

Perth – Fremantle – Mandurah – Bunbury – Busselton – Margaret River

Highlights:

• Drive the scenic coastal road, stopping at beaches like Yallingup Beach and Meelup Beach
• Explore coastal towns Bunbury and Busselton, which has the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere
• Hike through forests, kayak along the coast or surf at some of Australia’s best breaks
• Indulge in fresh seafood, local produce and gourmet cuisine at restaurants and farmers markets
• Taste world-class wines from renowned wineries like Vasse Felix, Voyager Estate or Leeuwin Estate

Distance: Approximately 600km roundtrip

Number of days needed for the road trip: 3-5 days

When to go: Spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) have fewer crowds and great weather.

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Driving from Perth to Margaret River is such a scenic and unforgettable road trip that highlights the best of Western Australia’s coastline and wine region. 

Starting in Perth, wind your way south along the coast, stopping at towns including Mandurah, Bunbury and Busselton. Each town has something different, from historic sites and markets to beautiful beaches and marine life encounters.

The highlight of the trip is Margaret River, known for its world-class wineries, breweries and gourmet food. Explore vineyards, sample delicious wines and indulge in fresh local produce at farmers markets and restaurants.

Beyond the wineries, the region has plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, surfing and stunning beaches like Yallingup Beach and Meelup Beach.

This scenic road trip from Perth to Margaret River is one of the best things to do in Western Australia.

Sarah from In Search of Sarah 

Red Centre Way – Alice Springs to Uluru (Northern Territory)

Discover the heart of Australia on the Red Centre Way, a loop from Alice Springs to Uluru that showcases the country’s most iconic outback landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Alice Springs – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon – Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges – Alice Springs

Highlights:

• Witness the awe-inspiring Uluru and explore the cultural significance of this ancient monolith
• Hike the dramatic Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park, with its stunning cliffs and views
• Explore the rugged beauty of the Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges, home to gorges, waterholes and unique flora and fauna
• Experience vibrant Aboriginal culture and heritage throughout the Red Centre

Distance: 1,135km loop

Number of days: 1 week minimum

When to go: The best time for an Alice Springs to Uluru road trip is during the cooler months from May to September, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the outback.

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The Red Centre Way is a road trip through the heart of Australia, both geographically and spiritually. You can do this trip with a 2WD, but a 4WD will allow you to get into more remote areas.

The trip begins in Alice Springs, the gateway to the Red Centre, where you can start to learn about the desert at the Alice Springs Desert Park or Olive Pink Botanic Garden.

From there, travel to the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru, one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks, holds much spiritual significance for the Anangu people, the area’s Traditional Owners. Nearby, the domes of Kata Tjuta offer equally mesmerising scenery and sacred sites.

Next, head to Watarrka National Park to explore Kings Canyon, where towering cliffs and panoramic views provide some of the most breathtaking hikes in Australia.

If you’ve got a 4WD, continue through to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges, a region known for its stunning gorges, waterholes, and diverse wildlife. (If you’ve got a 2WD, you’ll need to return to the highway to get back to Alice Springs.) Spend a few days going slowly through the many gorges and swimming holes as you make your way back to Alice. 

What are your favourite Australian road trips?

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Related posts

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

• What to pack for a road trip
• Epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip
• How to travel from Darwin to Broome
• How to plan a Perth to Broome road trip
• The ultimate Great Ocean Road road trip itinerary
• The ultimate guide to crossing the Nullarbor

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