Key Highlights
- Australia is known for amazing coastal drives. Each one gives you something special to see and so much natural beauty.
- Some well-known drives are the Great Ocean Road and the road from Sydney to Byron Bay. Here you can see the 12 Apostles and the Sea Cliff Bridge, both great places for people who love good scenery.
- If you drive across Western Australia, you find clean, sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets full of color, and sometimes there are kangaroos along the way.
- Tasmania has drives that go through national parks, show off clear blue water, and let you visit the Bay of Fires, which is famous for being very pretty.
- Queensland has a road from Cairns to Airlie Beach. You can see the coastline, the Great Barrier Reef, and lots of peaceful, sandy beaches.
- Each of these drives brings adventure, local treats, and more natural beauty, so they are perfect if you want to get out and explore.
Are you looking for the best coastal drive? Australia is full of natural beauty along its coastline. You can see places like the amazing Sea Cliff Bridge and famous areas on the Great Ocean Road. When you go out on these roads, you find beaches with sand and cliffs with pretty views. Some places have rainforests by the coast, too. All of these roads in Australia share one thing—you get scenes that you will not forget.
Take your time on your trip, relax a little, and look around at the beauty around you. If you want adventure, these routes will give you a day full of good sights and a new feel for the coast. The coastline has so much to offer, so go out and explore!
Top Coastal Drives in Australia: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Australia’s coastal drives are not just normal roads. They open the way to great beauty and fun trips. Every drive brings you near famous places and secret spots. You can see Victoria’s limestone apostles or relax at Western Australia’s lovely beaches. As you drive, you will notice sharp changes, like the busy Gold Coast or quiet areas in Tasmania. Make sure you pack what you need, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready to enjoy all of Australia’s charm. No matter where you start, each trip gives you memories you will not forget.
Go on these road trips to see the best of Australia’s beautiful coasts. Here are some key routes that show just how diverse and full of life this country can be.
1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Starting at Torquay, the Great Ocean Road in Victoria is a must-see if you want those perfect views. This famous road trip takes you to tall cliffs, quiet and pristine beaches, and green rainforests. As you go, you get to see great places like Cape Otway Lightstation and the Gibson Steps. Each spot makes the coastline look even better.
The biggest part of your journey will be seeing the 12 Apostles. These big rock stacks stand tall in the ocean. If you see the sunset here, it will blow your mind. The cliffs turn golden and the whole place lights up in a special way.
If you want more than just the coast, you can find waterfalls and trails in the hills around the area. The Great Ocean Road gives you adventure, quiet moments, and breathtaking views all in one amazing road trip. Get ready for some of the best beauty in Victoria — this road knows how to wow you around every turn.
2. Sydney to Byron Bay, NSW
Traveling from Sydney to Byron Bay gives you a beautiful coastal drive through New South Wales. You start by crossing the Sea Cliff Bridge, where you can see the ocean waves under you and take in the wide views all around. There are calm beaches in places like Port Stephens and good wineries in the Hunter Valley for you to visit.
Byron Bay is a place that has a relaxed feel. It is well-known for its tall cliffs and all the surfers. It is the best place for your trip to end. You should see the Cape Byron Lighthouse. It gives you sights that never seem to stop and make you feel like you are on top of the world.
This trip mixes the lovely coast with the rich local culture. As you pass places like Kiama Blowhole and Hyams Beach, you can see native animals and clean, clear water. Every minute on this route has something new to offer. It keeps everyone’s love for travel going strong right up to the last stop.
3. Perth to Ningaloo, WA
Western Australia offers a beautiful road trip from Perth to Ningaloo. This drive is known for its pristine beaches and wildlife you can see along the way. You will start in Perth. Then, you get to visit Monkey Mia where you can see dolphins playing in the water. After that, you can check out Kalbarri National Park. The area is full of natural wonders that will amaze you.
As you get closer to Ningaloo Reef, the trip gets even better. The main joy here is swimming and snorkelling in clear water full of bright coral and rare sea creatures. The colors under the water will make you want to stay longer. It is easy to see why people want to explore these parts of australia.
You can spot kangaroos on quiet beaches which is something you do not forget. Coral Bay is great when you just want to relax and see the views. The sunsets here turn the sky shades of orange and pink and look so nice in the evening. It does not matter if you want adventure or quiet time. This road trip along Western Australia’s coast has something special for everyone.
4. Hobart to Bay of Fires, Tasmania
Few trips match the beauty you see on Tasmania’s coastal drive from Hobart to the Bay of Fires. On the way, you get breathtaking views of white sand, blue water, and rocks that glow a bright orange.
You start in Hobart and travel through the fresh air of national parks, like Freycinet. Grab your boots to walk on the trails that take you to Wineglass Bay. It’s a place that feels almost too beautiful to be real.
The best part is the Bay of Fires. People love it for how calm it is and how clean the coastline feels. With every stop—small towns and forests that pop up now and then—you see why Tasmania has such charm. You can snap photos of the amazing scenery or sit down to enjoy some local seafood. This trip is all about peace, nature, and has everything you want in a relaxing day out.
5. Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, SA
Drive from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island for an amazing South Australia adventure. This trip is known for the wonderful coastline and quiet, country feel. On the way, you can see the Fleurieu Peninsula. Then take a ferry to Kangaroo Island. Many people call this place the heart of the area.
On the island, there are lots of animals. You may see kangaroos, penguins, and other wildlife here. The place is perfect if you want to get close to nature. There is also fresh seafood. Try oysters and local fish. The food will make your trip even better.
You will find big sights, like Seal Bay Conservation Park and Remarkable Rocks, along this drive. When you travel by car, stop to take in the peaceful coastline. You will often meet friendly people, too. There is a good mix of adventure and comfort while you see some of the best that South Australia has to offer.
You get to enjoy lovely new views, good food, and many reasons to love this part of Australia.
6. Brisbane to Airlie Beach, QLD
Queensland invites you to get on a road trip from Brisbane to Airlie Beach. This trip takes you through a world of sunshine and warm air. You start out by the ocean and move past the busy Gold Coast and many sandy beaches right beside the famous Great Barrier Reef drive.
You can stop in Townsville where you will be able to learn lots about marine life. Or, you could just have a nice swim in the blue water at Palm Cove. When you get to Airlie Beach, you find a whole area with calm water and friendly people. This town is the gateway to the amazing Whitsundays.
The sandy beaches go together well with green rainforests you see on the way. On this road trip, you will get to know the different sides of Queensland, taste some great local food, and find time to just enjoy nature. It gives you some truly peaceful moments.
7. The Coral Coast Drive, WA
Western Australia’s Coral Coast Drive is full of things to see. The wildflowers show bright colors. The turquoise oceans and the red cliffs make every view special. Start your trip in the town of Geraldton. From there, go to Kalbarri National Park. You will see deep gorges and winding rivers formed across the land.
As you follow the coastline in western Australia, you will reach Shark Bay and Shell Beach. Here, there is so much nature to enjoy, with unique animals all around you. Ningaloo Reef is also on the way. This reef is home to many kinds of marine life and has colorful coral gardens that come to life under the sun.
The Coral Coast is well known in Australia for its bright sunsets. Red and orange colors light up the area at the end of the day. At every stop along the way, there are chances to enjoy these western Australia views. You can climb to the top of lookout points or just sit by the shoreline to relax and take it all in.
8. Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory, VIC
Victoria’s drive from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory is a trip for people who love nature. It starts in the city and goes through nice country towns and old sites. This road trip ends with the special views of Wilsons Promontory National Park.
The park is a peaceful place. There are green rainforests, tall granite mountains, and lots of wildlife to see. You can walk on scenic hiking trails or go for a walk at the quiet Sandy Point Beach. The clear water at the beach makes it even better.
On the way, local wineries offer great food and wine. This drive gives you both time to relax and a chance to see new things. You will also get to see the best parts of Victoria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to embark on a coastal drive in Australia?
The best time to go for a coastal drive in Australia is not the same everywhere. It changes with the region and the seasons. Many people find spring and autumn to be good, as the weather is mild in most places during those times. Summer is great if you want it to be warm for the beach. Before you start your coastal drive, always check what the season is like where you want to go. This will help you plan for the best trip in Australia.
Are there specific vehicle requirements for Australian coastal drives?
You do not need a special vehicle for most coastal drive routes in Australia. But if you plan to go on roads like Gibb River Road, you may need a 4WD. It is important to always check the road conditions before you go. Make sure your vehicle is safe and ready for the different things you might face on Australia’s coastal drive.
What are must-see stops along the Great Ocean Road?
The Great Ocean Road is full of good places you will want to see. People love the 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, and Cape Otway Lightstation for their beauty and history. You should not miss other things nearby, like waterfalls and forests with koalas. These spots show the special magic of Australia’s coastline.
How long does it typically take to complete the Sydney to Byron Bay coastal drive?
The Sydney to Byron Bay coastal drive is about 480 miles long. It will take around 9 to 10 hours by car. This drive has many things to see, like the Sea Cliff Bridge and the surfers in Byron Bay. To really enjoy these places, you might want to make the trip over more than one day. This way, you can take your time on the coastal drive and see all there is along the way.
Are there any safety tips for driving on Australian coastal roads?
Safety steps for your Australian coastal drive include checking the road before you go. Use a GPS that you can trust. Make sure you have good insurance too. Watch out for animals crossing the road. Always drive carefully, especially in rain or when there are other precautions to keep in mind along winding routes.
Can these road trips be done on a budget?
Yes, road trips along the coast in Australia can be a good way to save money. You can camp to cut down on what you spend on a place to stay. Take your own food with you so you do not have to spend a lot at places to eat. Also, you can use apps to find good deals while you travel. When you plan, it is possible to see a lot of Australia without spending too much.