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Australia’s open roads are front row seats to some of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. From stretches of coastline where waves smash against sheer cliffs, to desert tracks that vanish into the horizon, every state and territory offers drives worth the fuel and the time.
The beauty is in their variety: lush rainforests, coral-fringed shores, windswept plains, and heritage-rich towns all feature along the way.
Here’s a closer look at ten standout routes that deliver both the scenery and the experiences to match.
1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Stretching about 243 kilometers between Torquay and Allansford, the Great Ocean Road is a blend of raw coastline, thick forest, and relaxed beach towns.
Many travelers take two or three days to enjoy it fully, though it’s possible to drive in a day. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can still enjoy the route by picking up a reliable rental from https://www.eastcoastcarrentals.com.au/.
What makes it special
- The Twelve Apostles: towering limestone stacks that rise from the ocean, especially striking at sunset.
- Great Otway National Park: rainforest walks, waterfalls, and eucalyptus trees with sleepy koalas.
- Shipwreck Coast: a stretch of history and mystery along the water’s edge.
- Apollo Bay: seafood markets and a yearly festival celebrating fresh catches.
When to Go
September to early December avoids peak crowds yet still delivers warm weather. Conditions change fast, so pack a jacket.
Travel Tips
- The curves are gorgeous but can be slippery in wet weather – slow down and enjoy the view.
- Book accommodation ahead in towns like Lorne or Apollo Bay.
- A campervan offers flexibility, though you’ll want to plan fuel stops in larger towns.
Whale sightings are possible from May to October, adding another reason to linger.
2. Legendary Pacific Coast, NSW & Queensland
From Sydney to Brisbane, this 900-kilometer journey shifts from urban skylines to sandy bays and hinterland greenery.
The full trip can take five to seven days if you allow time for detours into wine country or coastal national parks.
Key stops
- Hunter Valley: over 150 vineyards with tastings and gourmet food pairings.
- Dorrigo National Park: boardwalks through ancient rainforest and lookout points over cascading falls.
- Surfers Paradise: wide beaches paired with high-rise glamour and water sports.
- Seacliff Bridge: an elevated curve above the Pacific, ideal for photographs.
When to Go
August to November balances whale migration season with lighter tourist traffic.
Travel Tips
- Be ready for toll roads near Sydney.
- Pack for humidity, especially further north.
- Insect repellent is a must in rainforest areas.
3. Great Barrier Reef Drive, Queensland
Only 140 kilometers from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, yet this stretch packs in more variety than many longer drives.
Reef meets rainforest here, both of them UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Don’t Miss
- Daintree Rainforest: 150 million years old, with rare wildlife like cassowaries.
- Mossman Gorge: cultural tours by Kuku Yalanji guides and cool swimming spots.
- Port Douglas: your gateway to snorkeling on the reef.
- Cape Tribulation: an off-grid mix of hiking trails and eco-lodges.
When to Go
May to October for dry, sunny conditions and safe swimming.
Travel Tips
- Check crocodile safety signs before entering any water.
- Book reef tours ahead – the best operators fill up fast.
- A 4WD is worth it if you want to explore side tracks.
The combination of reef and rainforest in one short drive is something you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Gibb River Road, Western Australia
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At 660 kilometers, this is no Sunday drive. Running from Derby to Kununurra through the Kimberley, it’s a red-dirt route that demands preparation and rewards with remote beauty.
Standout Features
- Bell Gorge: swimming under waterfalls framed by ochre rock.
- Cockburn Range: rugged peaks that glow in the early and late light.
- El Questro Wilderness Park: hot springs, canyon hikes, and helicopter tours.
- Boab trees: some more than 1,500 years old.
When to Go
Dry season between May and September, when tracks are accessible.
Travel Tips
- A high-clearance 4WD and spares for tires.
- Ample fuel and water – services are few.
- Satellite phone for areas with no reception.
Its origins as a cattle route give it a history as rich as the scenery.
5. Nullarbor Plain, SA & WA
From Norseman to Ceduna, the Eyre Highway takes you across 1,200 kilometers of treeless plain.
It’s a hypnotic drive of big skies and long horizons, with coastal cliffs and outback roadhouses breaking the monotony.
Points of interest
- Great Australian Bight: high cliffs and whale watching in winter.
- Nullarbor Links: an 18-hole golf course spanning 1,365 kilometers.
- Bunda Cliffs: panoramic drop-offs to the Southern Ocean.
When to Go
May to October for cooler days.
Travel Tips
- Fuel up whenever you can – stations can be 200 kilometers apart.
- Watch for kangaroos and camels, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Expect basic amenities in many stops.
Its name means “no trees” in Latin, yet its wildlife and sense of space make it anything but empty.
6. Explorer’s Way, SA to NT
Adelaide to Alice Springs – and on to Darwin if you have time – this 1,500-kilometer route along the Stuart Highway is Australia’s spine. Six days is the minimum, but extra time opens more side trips.
Highlights
- Flinders Ranges: fossil-rich ranges and hikes with wide views.
- Coober Pedy: underground homes in an opal mining town.
- Uluru & Kata Tjuta: sacred monoliths best seen at sunrise or sunset.
- Kings Canyon: rim walks with dramatic drop-offs and desert flora.
When to Go
April to September for comfortable desert temperatures.
Travel Tips
- Respect local Indigenous sites and book guided tours for context.
- Underground hotels are a novelty worth trying.
- Carry plenty of water and watch for wandering stock or wildlife.
7. Coral Coast Highway, Western Australia
Perth to Exmouth is 1,250 kilometers of coastal and desert contrast, best enjoyed over two weeks. The rewards range from surreal rock formations to marine encounters.
Key stops
- Pinnacles Desert: thousands of limestone spires in golden sand.
- Shark Bay: stromatolites, dugongs, and friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia.
- Ningaloo Reef: swim with whale sharks from March to July.
- Cape Range National Park: gorges and beaches near Exmouth.
When to Go
Year-round, but whale shark season is the big draw.
Travel Tips
- Book marine tours early, especially during peak wildlife seasons.
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen to protect fragile ecosystems.
- Spring wildflowers can transform the scenery if your timing is right.
8. Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania
@travelwithkids3 We had so much fun doing a road trip all the way from Sydney to Tasmania. From the moment we drove off the overnight car ferry in Tasmania, the scenery just never stopped surprising us. Stunning mountains, small historic villages, white sand beaches. Tasmania really does have it all. Looking forward to the next time we return and can explore even more of the rustic landscape ? #tasmania #bayoffires #hobart #australia #roadtrip #traveltips #itinerary
From Hobart northward, the east coast is a mix of quiet bays, convict history, and seafood stops. Four to five days lets you enjoy it at an easy pace.
Must-see
- Bay of Fires: white sand and orange-tinted boulders.
- Wineglass Bay: one of Australia’s most photographed beaches.
- Port Arthur: preserved convict settlement with guided tours.
- Bicheno: small-town charm and penguin colonies.
When to Go
Summer for swimming, though cooler months bring fewer visitors.
Travel Tips
- Evenings can be chilly – bring layers.
- Clockwise travel offers better coastal views.
- Include wine tastings along the way.
9. South West Edge, Western Australia
A loop from Perth to Esperance, covering about 1,200 kilometers in ten days, this route takes in vineyards, forest canopies, and pristine beaches.
Highlights
- Valley of the Giants: treetop walkway above towering karri trees.
- Margaret River: famous for wine, surf, and gourmet food.
- Lucky Bay: where kangaroos lounge on the sand.
- Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park: caves and coastal trails.
When to Go
Late summer into early autumn for orca sightings offshore.
Travel Tips
- Standard cars are fine for most stops, but 4WD is needed for some beaches.
- Book popular wineries ahead.
- Glamping sites and boutique stays elevate the experience.
10. Lap of Tasmania
A full circuit of Tasmania, starting from Hobart or Launceston, covers 1,988 kilometers and can fill two weeks.
Stops Worth Planning
- Cradle Mountain: alpine hikes and abundant wildlife.
- Tamar Valley: wineries and fresh produce.
- Maria Island: car-free national park with rich history.
- Bruny Island: cheeses, oysters, and lighthouse walks.
When to Go
Summer offers the best weather for hiking and camping.
Travel Tips
- A campervan allows access to free campsites.
- National park passes are required.
- Be ready for winding roads and changing conditions.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s scenic drives aren’t just routes on a map – they’re stories told through landscapes, wildlife, and the people you meet along the way.
Whichever you choose, a little planning goes a long way: check local conditions, respect cultural sites, and give yourself time to explore. The road will take care of the rest.
