Exploring Australia by Road: Best Destinations for Your Next Drive
Australia, with its vast landscapes and diverse scenery, is a paradise for road-trippers. Whether you’re looking to experience the rugged outback, pristine beaches, or lush rainforests, there's a perfect drive waiting for you.
But before setting off on your adventure, ensure you have a reliable vehicle by checking out reputable car rental services like East Coast Car Rentals. With your car sorted, here are some of the best places in Australia to drive to, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable views.
1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
A Coastal Marvel
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic drives in Australia, and for a good reason. Stretching over 240 kilometers along the south-eastern coast, this road offers stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and lush rainforests. Start your journey in the surf town of Torquay, known for its great beaches and vibrant atmosphere.
As you continue, you'll encounter the famous Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean. The views here are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Along the way, stop at the Great Otway National Park, where you can take a break from driving to explore waterfalls and ancient rainforests.
Where to Stay
Lorne and Apollo Bay are popular stops along the Great Ocean Road. Both towns offer a range of accommodations, from cozy motels to luxurious resorts.
2. The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
A Journey Through the Heart of Australia
If you’re seeking a true outback experience, the Red Centre Way is the drive for you. This route takes you through the heart of Australia, where you’ll witness the stark beauty of the desert and explore some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
Start your journey in Alice Springs, a town rich in history and culture. From here, drive to Kings Canyon, where you can hike the Rim Walk for panoramic views of the rugged landscape. Continue on to Uluru, the massive sandstone monolith that is sacred to the Indigenous Anangu people. Watching the sunset over Uluru is an experience you’ll never forget.
Where to Stay
Campsites and resorts are available at Kings Canyon and near Uluru. These places offer unique accommodations that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the outback experience.
3. The Savannah Way, Queensland to Western Australia
An Epic Cross-Country Adventure
For those who crave a long-distance adventure, the Savannah Way offers a journey across the top of Australia. This 3,700-kilometer route takes you from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, passing through some of the country’s most remote and beautiful regions.
As you drive, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes, from tropical rainforests to vast savannahs. Highlights include the Undara Lava Tubes, the largest lava tubes in the world, and the stunning waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. This route also provides the opportunity to visit remote Indigenous communities and learn about their culture and history.
Where to Stay
Given the remote nature of this drive, it’s essential to plan your accommodations in advance. Caravan parks, campsites, and remote lodges are available along the route.
4. Tasmania’s East Coast, Tasmania
A Journey Through Untouched Wilderness
Tasmania’s East Coast offers a driving experience like no other, with its pristine beaches, historic towns, and stunning national parks. Begin your journey in Hobart, Tasmania’s charming capital, before heading north along the coast.
One of the highlights of this drive is Freycinet National Park, home to Wineglass Bay, often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Continue north to the Bay of Fires, where you’ll find crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches bordered by striking orange-hued boulders.
Where to Stay
The towns of Bicheno and St Helens offer a range of accommodations, including beachfront cottages and luxury lodges.
5. The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia
Crossing the Great Australian Bight
The Nullarbor Plain offers one of Australia’s most iconic and remote drives. This route spans 1,200 kilometers across a vast, treeless plain, from Ceduna in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia. The name "Nullarbor" comes from the Latin "nullus arbor," meaning "no trees," which perfectly describes the landscape.
While the drive is long and isolated, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Highlights include the dramatic Bunda Cliffs, where the land meets the Southern Ocean, and the Nullarbor Links, the world’s longest golf course. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and even whales during the migration season.
Where to Stay
Rural roadhouses along the Nullarbor offer basic accommodations, including motels and caravan parks. It’s essential to plan your stops in advance, as services are sparse.
6. The Great Alpine Road, Victoria
Australia’s High Country Drive
For those who enjoy mountain drives, the Great Alpine Road is a must. This 339-kilometer route takes you from Wangaratta in Victoria’s northeast to Bairnsdale in Gippsland, passing through the stunning Victorian Alps.
As you wind your way through the mountains, you’ll encounter alpine forests, rolling hills, and charming towns. In winter, the region is a popular destination for skiing, while in summer, it offers hiking, fishing, and wine tasting. One of the highlights is the town of Bright, known for its autumn foliage and excellent local produce.
Where to Stay
Bright and Mount Hotham are popular stops along the Great Alpine Road, offering a variety of accommodations from cozy cabins to luxury lodges.
7. The Coral Coast, Western Australia
A Coastal Paradise
Western Australia’s Coral Coast offers a driving experience filled with natural beauty and marine wonders. This 1,100-kilometer route takes you from Perth to Exmouth, passing through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country.
Highlights include the Pinnacles Desert, where thousands of limestone pillars rise from the sand, and the Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can swim with whale sharks. Along the way, you’ll also encounter stunning beaches, national parks, and vibrant marine life.
Where to Stay
Cervantes, Kalbarri, and Exmouth offer a range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts to family-friendly campsites.
8. The Waterfall Way, New South Wales
A Scenic Drive Through the Hinterland
The Waterfall Way is one of Australia’s most picturesque drives, taking you through the lush hinterland of New South Wales. This 185-kilometer route starts in Coffs Harbour and ends in Armidale, passing through several national parks and showcasing some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country.
Highlights include Dorrigo National Park, where you can walk through ancient rainforests and visit the Skywalk lookout for panoramic views. Further along, stop at Ebor Falls and Wollomombi Falls, two of the highest waterfalls in New South Wales.
Where to Stay
Bellingen and Armidale offer a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.
Final Thoughts
Australia is a country that begs to be explored by road. Each of these drives offers something unique, whether it’s the coastal beauty of the Great Ocean Road or the remote wilderness of the Red Centre Way. Before you hit the road, make sure to arrange your vehicle through reputable car rental services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
As you embark on your Australian road trip, remember to take your time, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the incredible diversity that this vast country has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there’s no better way to experience Australia than by hitting the open road.