Hitting the Open Road: Unforgettable Australian Road Trips
Australia, a land of sprawling landscapes and breathtaking vistas, is a road tripper’s paradise. The vast distances, coupled with stunning scenery and pleasant weather, create the perfect conditions for an incredible holiday. Whether you’re dreaming of cruising along picturesque coastlines, discovering secluded beaches, or venturing into the heart of the outback under a canopy of stars, a self-drive adventure is the ideal way to experience the magic Down Under.
But with so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning your perfect Australian road trip can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
That’s where we come in! The SIXT Australia team has pooled its local expertise to create a list of the absolute best road trip destinations in Australia. We’ll also share some essential driving tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Make sure to also check out the SIXT website at https://www.sixt.com.au/.
Why Choose a Rental Car for Your Australian Adventure?
Before we dive into the destinations, let’s explore the advantages of renting a car for your Australian travels.
Australia’s sheer size – nearly 4,000 km wide and 3,800 km long – makes public transport a less-than-ideal option for those seeking to explore beyond the major cities. Many of the country’s most stunning natural wonders are tucked away in national parks and remote areas, often inaccessible by other means of transportation.
A rental car offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility. You can set your own itinerary, explore at your own pace, and linger longer in places that capture your heart. Discover a hidden gem? Stay an extra day or two! The choice is yours.
Australia’s Top Road Trip Destinations
Narrowing down the best road trips in Australia was no easy feat. However, after careful consideration, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks.
Sydney and its Surroundings (New South Wales)
Sydney, the vibrant capital of NSW, is a global icon, renowned for its magnificent harbor, idyllic beaches, and iconic landmarks.
With a car at your disposal, you can effortlessly explore all that Sydney has to offer. Begin with a scenic drive across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, followed by a visit to the Sydney Opera House for a tour or performance.
From there, a short 20-minute drive will take you to the world-famous Bondi Beach. Enjoy an afternoon swim in the surf, followed by a relaxing sunset stroll and dinner at a local restaurant.
Beyond the city limits, a wealth of experiences awaits. Take a day trip to the Hunter Valley for wine tasting and gourmet dining, explore the breathtaking Blue Mountains, soak up the sun and surf in Wollongong, or discover the thriving arts scene in Newcastle.
If you have a few extra days, consider a drive down the Hume Highway to Canberra, Australia’s capital city. From Canberra, you can easily continue your road trip to Melbourne.
The Great Ocean Road (Victoria)
The Great Ocean Road, winding along the southwest coast of Victoria, is undeniably one of Australia’s most spectacular drives.
This 240-kilometer stretch of road begins in Torquay, about 90 minutes from Melbourne, and ends in Allansford, near Warrnambool. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the lush Great Otway National Park.
Between admiring the stunning scenery, take advantage of the numerous walking trails, cool off with a swim at a secluded beach, and explore the charming coastal towns that dot the route.
The Outback (Northern Territory and South Australia)
For those seeking adventure, the vast and awe-inspiring Outback is a must-see.
This unique landscape offers an experience unlike any other, with its endless blue skies (perfect for stargazing), dramatic deserts, and striking rock formations.
Key destinations include Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs. A classic way to experience the Outback is a 3,000-kilometer drive from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, traversing the very heart of Australia.
Tropical Far North Queensland
Tropical Far North Queensland is a region of extraordinary natural beauty, where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Here, everything is larger than life, from the vibrant coral and fish beneath the waves to the towering flora and fauna on land. When you’re not snorkeling or hiking, hop in your car and explore the scenic coastal drives to popular towns like Port Douglas and Mission Beach.
Consider an epic road trip from Brisbane to Cairns, or a shorter but equally stunning drive from Mackay to Cairns.
Tasmania
Known as the Apple Isle, Tasmania offers some of the best wilderness road trips in Australia.
Home to one of the world’s largest temperate wilderness areas, Tasmania boasts incredible natural beauty. Highlights include Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires, and Freycinet National Park, famous for its perfectly shaped Wineglass Bay.
A rental car allows you to access these and other remote locations, including secluded beaches, picturesque villages, and fantastic hiking trails. You can even embark on a culinary road trip, exploring Tasmania’s thriving food scene, or drive from Hobart to Launceston.
Perth and Western Australia
Perth, located approximately 3,000 kilometers west of Sydney, is renowned for its beautiful beaches and diverse landscapes.
Start your journey in the city, then head to Fremantle to delve into convict history and the Swan Valley to sample wines at over 40 different wineries.
From there, embark on the Indian Ocean Drive, a 1,226-kilometer route showcasing dramatic red rock gorges, vibrant wildflower meadows, and charming fishing villages. Must-see attractions include the Pinnacles Desert and Kalbari National Park.
With ample time, you could extend your road trip all the way from Perth to Broome, culminating in a memorable camel ride along the beach at sunset – a truly iconic Australian experience.
Essential Road Trip Tips for Australia
Before you set off on your Australian road trip, it’s important to familiarise yourself with a few key driving rules and regulations.
Driving in Australia is on the left-hand side of the road, and speed limits are strictly enforced. Typically, speed limits are around 50 km/h in residential areas and 110 km/h on freeways, but always check the posted signs as they can vary.
All drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts at all times, and drink driving is strictly prohibited. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, and it’s even lower for certain drivers, such as those on provisional licenses.
Careful planning is essential for a successful Australian road trip. Navigation can sometimes be challenging, so consider downloading a reliable navigation app like Google Maps.
Other useful apps include WikiCamps (for finding campsites), Roadtrippers (a road trip planner), National Public Toilet Map, and Emergency AUS (for alerts about bushfires, floods, and other emergencies).
Distances between towns and facilities, including petrol stations and accommodation, can be significant, especially in remote areas. Plan your fuel stops, breaks, and overnight stays in advance.
Now, you’re ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! A road trip in Australia is an experience you’ll cherish for years to come. For more inspiration and road trip ideas, be sure to check out the SIXT Australia Magazine on https://www.sixt.com.au/magazine/.
