Whether South Australia, Western Australia, the northern territory or even the east coast, there are numerous side attractions for everyone on an Australia road trip.

The national parks, the dense forests, and the oceans are some of the major ones. Apart from these, Australia is home to various species of animals and wildlife; the country has many marine creatures that can easily be found on the beaches and various other waterways. Let’s discuss in detail some famous Australian road trips.

1. Tropical North Queensland

On this trip, you can visit world heritage sites like the rainforest-clad mountains and the Great Barrier Reef. Start with a 3-day drive from Cairns to Townsville and then from Townsville to Airlie Beach.

Some other amazing activities on the way could be visiting Mission Beach, diving in the reef, viewing wildlife, unique tropical fruits, waterfalls of the famous Wooroonooran National Park, Hinchinbrook Island, and various swimming holes.

2. Sunshine Coast

It is a 4-8 days long drive from Mission Beach and ends at Brisbane. The road trip is filled with amazing views of beaches and tropical waters that pass along the Great Barrier Reef.

Some of the highlights of this road trip include the barrier reef drive and hopping on the Airlie beach. You can view the Agnes waters, the Eungella National Park, Fraser Island, the Glasshouse Mountains, the Great Sandy National Park, Cape Hillsborough, Noosa Heads, and Lady Musgrave Islands.

You will also get to witness the whale sharks at Hervey Bay. The road trip from Airlie Beach to Brisbane will be about 1,120 km in total.

3. Queensland Outback Drive

It is a 4-6 day road trip that includes a journey from Townsville-Cunnamulla to Cunnamulla-Brisbane. The total trip is about 1,700 km.

Start the journey from Brisbane and drive towards the west coast of Cunnamulla. There are several towns and beautiful places that tourists can explore along the way. You will witness the fantastic landscapes of the outback of Australia before returning to the tropical coastal Townsville city.

The highlights of this road trip include stargazing, outback art, bilby encounters, red dunes, dinosaur footprints, canyons, numerous wildlife, museums, and historic towns. In addition, you will also get the chance to witness the Charters Towers.

4. East Coast Australian Road Trip-I

It is a 5-9 day trip covering an area of about 1050 km. The road trip covers the area of Sydney to Brisbane.

The major highlights of this trip include camping on the beautiful beaches, surfing on the surf beaches, visiting the glow-worm tunnels and the ancient forests, witnessing kangaroo life on the kangaroo island, and visiting the Wollemi National Park.

5. East Coastal Route Australian Road Trip-II

The total area of this road trip is 1200 km and stretches from Sydney to Melbourne. It is a 5-10-day trip that includes Australia’s coastal towns and regions. If you love swimming, listening to the sound of the waves, star gazing and spending time on the seashore, this road trip is definitely for you.

The main highlights of this trip are seeing the Royal National Park, climbing the Pigeon House mountain, spending time with the friendly wildlife of Booderee National Park, diving into the ocean with the seals, eating cheese in the famous Tilba Tilba, and watching the graceful whales. The Freycinet National Park is also a great location on this route.

In addition, you can also see fresh oysters and go for a swim at the Mornington Peninsula.

6. Snowy Mountains

The total area covered on this trip is around 1,450 km and is a 5-10 day. While travelling on this route, you will be able to see the snow-capped mountains of Australia.

The major highlights of this road trip are engaging in some favourite activities and visiting famous spots in Australia. Witness the spectacular view of the mountain landscapes, experience the wine of the cool climate, witness the bright autumn colours, and see the penguins and other wildlife.

The trip covers some areas of Sydney, Snowy Mountains, Melbourne and Canberra.

7. Great Ocean Road

The epic Great Ocean road trip lasts 7-12 days and covers about 1,500 km. Ocean views, surfing, excellent scenic routes, and wine define this superb road trip.

Some of the major highlights of the Great Ocean Road trip are hiking, self-driving, visiting wine regions of various kinds, witnessing the unique wildlife at Kangaroo Island, visiting the very famous glow warm cave, and the ancient forests and vineyards.

8. Outback And Broken Hill

The road trip covers some parts of Sydney and Adelaide Drive. The estimated duration of this road trip is around 7-14 days, and the distance covered is 1,800 km. During this trip, you can witness the national park of Blue Mountain, which consists of infinite walks, orchards, and art colonies.

While driving along the path, you will also get the opportunity to see the fantastic landscapes of Australia.

9. Grand Pacific Drive

The fantastic road trip of the Grand Pacific Drive passes along some of the unique townships of Australia, like Shell Harbour, Wollongong, Shoalhaven and Kiama. On this 140 km drive from Sydney, you will witness some of Australia’s best beaches, amazing landscapes, rugged islands and many other mesmerizing views. The Sea Cliff Bridge is a major attraction of this trip. Drive over the Sea Cliff Bridge, a well-designed architecture spread over the ocean.

10. The Savanna Way

If you are an adventurer, this road trip is just for you. Drive from Tropical North Queensland to the western Australia Kimberly region via northern territory.

You will find different national parks weaving through the outback cattle stations and get the opportunity to visit some world heritage-listed places and wildlife of western Australia. In addition, there are turquoise waters, waterfalls, and other waterways to experience.

11. Great Alpine Road

The fantastic 500 km journey covers some of the best areas of Australia, namely, Wangaratta, Gippsland Lakes Area, Victorian High Country and many other towns and villages.

If you take this trip during the summer season, you can horse ride and fish. During winter, it is advised to pack some boots and skis.

12. Pacific Coast

Drive through the Pacific coast in a 5-day trip and enjoy the tropical paradise of the northern coast.

The 900 km Australia road trip crosses through unique places such as Coffs Harbor, Central Australia coastal towns, Port Stephens, Newcastle, Byron Bay and Ballina. The road also hits the Gold Coast and stops at Brisbane City.

13. Big Lap

This is probably the longest among all other Aussie road trips. It covers Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane, Broome, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and Esperance.

The 15,000 km road trip will take over a week or two to conclude. You will need at least a few months to complete the road trip.

14. Gibb River Road

It is a 660 km road trip that passes through famous ancient lands like Derby, Kimberly, and Wyndham. Major attractions along this road trip include dipping in the cold waterholes known to be fed by waterfalls.

15. Darwin To Port Augusta

This road trip goes through the Stuart Highway and explores some of the rich regions in Australia.

Some fun activities on this trip include exploring the rock formations, canyons and gorges. You could also visit the Red Centre and the Kakadu National Park. There are also several lakes and rivers in South Australia that you will encounter on your way.

End the drive on a beautiful note at the Port Augusta town on the east coast of Australia’s Spencer Gulf.

16. The Eyre Peninsula

Visiting the Eyre Peninsula in Australia will enable you to explore the native wildlife and the national parks. Down the south coast of Australia, you will get the opportunity to enjoy seafood served fresh with authentic taste.

17. The Coral Coastal Drive

The Coral Coastal Drive is a very famous touring place in Australia. There are amazing coastal sceneries and unique desert colours to see.

The road trip winds between Broome and Perth and has rock formations, gorges, rugged islands and turquoise waters.

18. Nullarbor Plain

Nullarbor Plain is a treeless land that is situated on the Eyre Highway. It is a 146 km long road, also known as the longest straight road in the world. Nullarbor Plain links to many cities and towns in Australia, such as Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne. You can indulge yourself in the fantastic view of this place.

19. Cairns To Cape York

This road trip is filled with beautiful sceneries and coastal views, including that of the Cape Tribulation. Feel free to admire the beauty of this place. It is the perfect travel destination for nature lovers. Enjoy wildlife and marine creatures on the empty beaches, Just like in almost every forest and beach in this country.

20. Perth To Pilbara

Pilbara is one of the ancient regions of Australia. The top-notch scenes and scenery are what make this place famous. View indigenous rock, swimming holes, gorges, various waterways and mesmerizing landscapes.

Rounding Up

Australia offers some of the most spectacular road trips. There is so much to see with everything from coastal beauty to lush green rainforest. There are practicable activities for everyone, from kids to adrenaline seekers. Whether you are planning a short trip or a long vacation, Australian road trips won’t disappoint.

Last Updated on May 13, 2024 by Arnab