Australia Road Trip!

· Travel team
Hi Lykkers, Australia is one of the most remarkable countries to experience by road.
From the rugged coastline to the red desert landscapes, every route reveals unique natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Road trips here combine freedom, adventure, and unforgettable scenery, making them ideal for travelers seeking diverse experiences. This guide explores some of the best routes, including travel details, entrance fees, highlights, and practical tips.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Stretching 150 miles along the southern coast, the Great Ocean Road is among the most iconic scenic drives in the world. Famous for dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, it offers endless stops worth exploring.
Getting There: Begin the journey in Melbourne and drive southwest towards Torquay, the official starting point. Car rentals are widely available in the city.
Highlights:
- The Twelve Apostles, rising majestically from the Southern Ocean.
- Loch Ard Gorge, a dramatic cove with golden sands.
- Otway Rainforest, ideal for short walks and waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring (October to November) or early autumn (March to April) provides mild weather and fewer crowds.
Entrance Fee: Viewing platforms and most stops are free, but Otway National Park parking may cost around US $5 per vehicle.
Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
This route connects Alice Springs with the heart of Australia’s desert landscape, showcasing ancient geology and Indigenous heritage.
Getting There: Start in Alice Springs, accessible by domestic flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Darwin. A 4WD is recommended for the journey.
Highlights:
- Uluru, Australia’s most sacred monolith, glowing red at sunrise and sunset.
- Kata Tjuta, a cluster of striking rock domes with excellent hiking trails.
- Kings Canyon, famous for the Rim Walk with panoramic desert views.
Best Time to Visit: May to September offers cooler desert temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
Entrance Fee: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park charges US $25 per person for a three-day pass.
Pacific Coast Touring Route, Queensland to New South Wales
This coastal drive links Sydney and Brisbane, covering more than 600 miles of beaches, surfing towns, and national parks.
Getting There: Start in Sydney or Brisbane, both major international gateways. Rental cars and campervans are popular for this journey.
Highlights:
- Byron Bay, known for Cape Byron Lighthouse and pristine beaches.
- Gold Coast, offering theme parks and surfing culture.
- Port Stephens, famous for dolphin cruises and sand dune adventures.
Best Time to Visit: September to November brings warm weather without the summer crowds.
Entrance Fee: Most beaches are free, while Cape Byron Lighthouse parking costs about US $6 per vehicle.
Tasmania’s East Coast Drive
Tasmania’s eastern coastline presents a slower-paced trip filled with untouched beaches, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife.
Getting There: Fly into Hobart or Launceston and rent a car. The drive typically starts in Hobart and winds up to the Bay of Fires.
Highlights:
- Freycinet National Park with the world-famous Wineglass Bay lookout.
- Bay of Fires, renowned for white sands and orange-lichen rocks.
- Maria Island, a haven for wildlife such as wombats and kangaroos.
Best Time to Visit: December to March is the peak season with pleasant summer conditions.
Entrance Fee: Tasmania National Parks pass is required, costing around US $24 per vehicle per day.
Perth to Exmouth, Western Australia
A drive along Western Australia’s Coral Coast uncovers remote beauty and aquatic wonders stretching over 750 miles.
Getting There: Begin in Perth, a city well-connected by air to other Australian capitals. Car or campervan hire is essential for this long route.
Highlights:
- Pinnacles Desert, a surreal landscape of limestone formations.
- Shark Bay, home to stromatolites and wild dolphins.
- Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO site where snorkeling with whale sharks is possible.
Best Time to Visit: April to October provides warm conditions and opportunities to see marine wildlife.
Entrance Fee: National park entry is about US $11 per vehicle per park.
Essential Road Trip Tips
Driving Rules: Australia follows left-hand driving, and distances between towns can be vast. Plan fuel stops in advance.
Accommodation: Choices range from roadside motels and holiday parks to luxury eco-lodges. Campervans are popular for flexibility.
Safety: Wildlife often crosses roads at dawn and dusk, so extra caution is needed. Carry sufficient water when traveling in remote regions.
Australia’s road trips are more than just drives—they are immersive journeys into landscapes that shift from lush coasts to ancient deserts. With clear routes, iconic attractions, and practical tips in hand, every traveler can craft a memorable adventure. So Lykkers, when the open road calls, Australia offers the perfect setting for a journey that lingers long after the final sto