Originally published on February 11, 2025 | Last updated on February 11, 2025
Ever dreamed of tackling rugged outback trails, coastal highways, and rainforest roads? Buckle up for an adventure of a lifetime!
Looking for epic scenic road trip routes through Australia? Australia is home to some of the most scenic drives with stunning coastlines, rugged outback terrain, lush rainforests, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Whether you’re looking for Australian road trip adventures, scenic Australian driving routes, or iconic Australian road trips to explore, this ultimate Australian road trip guide will take you through the best journeys the country has to offer.
Here are 14 of the most unforgettable Australian road trips, perfect for every kind of traveler.
1. Great Ocean Road Victoria
One of the most scenic coastal drives in Australia, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 km from Torquay to Allansford. Along the way, you’ll encounter the iconic Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. This drive also features breathtaking rainforest scenery, secluded beaches, and charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay. For those planning an Australian west coast road trip, this route offers a spectacular mix of rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and world-famous surf breaks.
2. The Legendary Pacific Coast, New South Wales & Queensland
A must-drive for those exploring the top Australian road trip destinations, the Legendary Pacific Coast stretches 900 km from Sydney to Brisbane, offering the best of Australia’s coastline. From the scenic byways in Australia of the Hunter Valley wine region to the golden beaches of Surfers Paradise, this route is ideal for wine lovers, beachgoers, and adventure seekers alike.
Don’t miss Dorrigo National Park, where ancient rainforests meet stunning waterfalls. Perfect for couples, this is one of the most romantic road itineraries in Australia, blending fine dining, ocean views, and cultural experiences.
3. Cairns to Cape Tribulation, Queensland
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path Australian road trip route, the journey from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is a must. This route takes you through the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest, where ancient trees and rare wildlife create a truly magical atmosphere. The road itself is a mix of well-paved highways and adventurous dirt tracks, leading to hidden beaches and crystal-clear creeks. A highlight of this journey is the opportunity to experience the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, one of the best Australian scenic byways for road trips.
4. Hobart to Freycinet, Tasmania
Tasmania is home to some of the best national parks for a road trip in Australia, and the drive from Hobart to Freycinet is a perfect example. This route offers travelers the chance to explore Wineglass Bay, one of Australia’s most photogenic beaches. Along the way, stop at the historic town of Richmond and visit the stunning Maria Island National Park. Whether you’re planning a romantic road itinerary or a family-friendly adventure, this drive offers stunning coastal views and wildlife encounters.
5. The Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania
A scenic drive along the Great Eastern Drive is perfect for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Stretching from Orford to St Helens, this route showcases some of the best Australian road trip destinations for families, featuring picturesque vineyards, fresh seafood, and stunning ocean vistas. The Bay of Fires, known for its orange-hued granite rocks and pristine white beaches, is a highlight along this drive. For a romantic road tour, stop at one of the many wineries along the route and enjoy a glass of Tasmania’s finest wine.
6. The Nullarbor Plain – South Australia & Western Australia
Stretching over 1,200 km from South Australia to Western Australia, the Nullarbor Plain is one of the best cross-country road trips for those seeking wide-open landscapes and stunning scenic roads. This legendary route follows the Eyre Highway, taking travelers through vast, treeless plains and along the cliffs of the Great Australian Bight, where you can spot whales from June to October.
With quirky roadside attractions like the Nullarbor Roadhouse and Australia’s longest straight road (90 Mile Straight), this scenic Australian driving route is an adventure in itself. This is one of the most remote but rewarding Australian road trips for solo travelers.
Hidden gems on Australian road trip routes include the famous Bunda Cliffs, where the land dramatically meets the Great Australian Bight. Make sure to prepare your Australian road trip packing essentials, as fuel and supplies can be scarce in this remote area.
7. Broome to Perth, Western Australia
For an unforgettable west coast road trip route, the journey from Broome to Perth showcases some of Australia’s most unique landscapes. Along the way, travelers can explore the striking Pinnacles Desert, the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef, and the breathtaking gorges of Karijini National Park. This road trip also features charming coastal towns like Exmouth and Coral Bay, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this is one of the most rewarding iconic Australian road trips.
8. The South West Edge: Western Australia
The South West Edge is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets, offering a stunning mix of coastline, forests, and wine country. This scenic byway in Australia takes you through the Margaret River wine region, where you can enjoy world-class wines and gourmet food. The towering karri forests of Pemberton and the white sandy beaches of Esperance make this one of the best Australian road trip destinations for families. For those who love adventure, explore the underground caves of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.
9. Sydney to Melbourne, New South Wales & Victoria
This classic Australian road trip adventure offers the perfect balance of coastal beauty and countryside charm. Travelers can take the direct inland route or opt for the scenic coastal drive, which passes through charming towns like Eden and Merimbula. The scenic roads along this journey take you past rolling hills, lush forests, and stunning beaches. If you’re planning a romantic road trip, consider stopping in the Yarra Valley for some wine tasting before reaching Melbourne.
10. The 75 Mile Highway, Fraser Island
One of the most unique scenic roads in Australia, the 75 Mile Highway on Fraser Island is actually a sandy beach! This iconic stretch allows travelers to drive along the world’s largest sand island, with stops at natural wonders like Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required to navigate this stunning terrain, offering an adventurous experience for thrill-seekers. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting dingoes, sea turtles, and humpback whales along the way.
11. Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
One of the most iconic Australian road trips to explore, the Red Centre Way unveils the magic of the Australian Outback. This 1,135 km loop from Alice Springs takes you through some of the best national parks for a road trip in Australia, including Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kings Canyon. The drive offers jaw-dropping views of Uluru’s changing colors at sunset, stunning rock formations, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path Australian road trip routes in the heart of the country. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and fuel—this scenic drive is best suited for those prepared for the rugged terrain.
12. Gibb River Road, Kimberley Region
For a true Australian road trip adventure, the Gibb River Route in Western Australia is a legendary 660 km stretch of unsealed road cutting through the heart of the Kimberley region. A west coast road trip route unlike any other, it features hidden gorges, Indigenous rock art, and stunning waterfalls like Bell Gorge and Manning Gorge. This drive requires a 4WD vehicle, and the best time for driving in the summer here is between May and September, when the weather is dry. With remote beauty and rugged terrain, it’s one of the most unforgettable Australian road trips, perfect for adventure seekers.
13. The Great Barrier Reef Drive
For those looking for scenic coastal drives in Australia, nothing beats the Great Barrier Reef Drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. Covering 140 km, this breathtaking drive hugs the coastline where the rainforest meets the reef, offering spectacular views of turquoise waters and lush greenery. Along the way, stop at Port Douglas, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world. As part of an ultimate Australian road trip guide, this drive is ideal for nature lovers and photographers wanting to capture Australia’s most unique landscapes.
14. The Explorer’s Way: South Australia & the Northern Territory
One of the longest scenic Australian driving routes, The Explorer’s Way spans over 3,000 km from Adelaide to Darwin, making it one of the best cross-country road trips for adventurers. Following the route taken by explorer John McDouall Stuart, this drive takes you through the famous Flinders Ranges, the Red Centre, and remote outback towns like Coober Pedy, known for its underground homes.
It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path Australian road trip routes, showcasing breathtaking desert landscapes, Indigenous heritage sites, and unique Australian wildlife. Be sure to check out road trip tips for Australian travel, including how to stay safe in the outback and where to find fuel stops along the way.
Planning For Scenic Road Trip Routes Through Australia: FAQs
From the wild landscapes of the Red Centre Way to the breathtaking ocean views along the Great Barrier Reef Drive, Australia offers some of the most scenic drives in Australia. Whether you’re planning a romantic road tour, seeking hidden gems on Australian road trip routes, or looking for a family-friendly adventure, these iconic Australian road trips deliver unforgettable experiences.
Be sure to pack the right Australian road trip packing essentials, prepare for varying weather conditions, and take your time exploring the best Australian road trip destinations for families. Whether you’re embarking on a west coast road trip or a scenic coastal escape, Australia’s highways and byways promise adventure at every turn.
What is the most beautiful road trip in Australia?
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is widely regarded as the most beautiful road trip in Australia, offering a breathtaking blend of rugged coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone formations. This scenic drive spans 243 kilometers and provides travelers with unparalleled ocean views, diverse wildlife encounters, and picturesque stops in charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay.
What is the best road trip planner in Australia?
The best road trip planner in Australia depends on individual needs, but Roadtrippers Australia, Wikicamps Australia, and CamperMate are highly recommended for their comprehensive mapping, campsite locations, fuel stops, and itinerary planning features. For those seeking a seamless experience, Google Maps and Hema Maps offer excellent route navigation, while NRMA Trip Planner provides expert travel insights, scenic routes, and essential road trip tips.
How long do you need to road trip around Australia?
A full road trip around Australia via Highway 1, which spans approximately 14,500 km and connects major cities and coastal regions, typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on driving pace and sightseeing stops. However, a more immersive journey, allowing time to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, national parks, and cultural sites, can extend to 12 months or more for a truly comprehensive experience.
How much does it cost to drive around Australia for 3 months?
The cost of a three-month road trip around Australia can vary significantly depending on factors such as vehicle type, fuel efficiency, accommodation choices, and travel style. As a general estimate, expenses can range between US$10,000 to US$25,000, covering fuel, food, campsite or hotel stays, park fees, and essential supplies, though consulting a local travel business can provide a more tailored budget based on specific needs and group size.
What is the best time of year for an Australian road trip?
The ideal time for an Australian road trip depends on the region, with spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offering mild weather nationwide. For an Australia East Coast Road Trip, winter (June–August) provides pleasant temperatures in Queensland, while summer (December–February) is great for beach lovers but can be humid. The Red Centre and Outback are best visited in cooler months to avoid extreme heat. Tasmania’s scenic drives are most enjoyable in summer for warmer conditions.
Are there fuel stations along remote road trip routes?
While fuel stations are readily available on major highways, remote routes like the Nullarbor Plain and the Outback Way have limited refueling points. Travelers should plan fuel stops in advance and carry extra fuel for long stretches without service stations. Apps and maps with fuel station locations are helpful for planning. Some roadhouses provide emergency fuel, but prices may be higher than in urban areas.
What are the must-see attractions on the Great Ocean Road?
The Great Ocean Road features world-famous sites, including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the scenic coastal town of Lorne. Visitors can explore rainforests in Great Otway National Park, home to waterfalls and native wildlife like koalas. Surfing enthusiasts often stop at Bells Beach, while history buffs visit shipwreck sites along the coast. The route is a mix of dramatic ocean views, limestone cliffs, and lush hinterlands.
🤍 A Little Creator Recommendation
If you love creating travel content like I do, you'll enjoy Travelpayouts. It's free to join, easy to use, and a lovely way to earn from sharing the adventures you already inspire.
✈️ Join Travelpayouts♡ This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my journey!
Feature Your Travel Brand
Next to premium hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators, through editorial stories.
Categories: Destinations & Journeys • Culinary Travel • Culture & Heritage • Stays & Hospitality • Lifestyle & Fashion
Accepted based on editorial fit & availability.
