Best Aussie Road Trips to Start 2025 With a Bang

Nothing says “new year, new adventure” quite like a good ol’ Aussie road trip. From coastal highways and lush rainforests to desert plains and rolling vineyards, Australia’s diverse landscapes offer unforgettable journeys. The best part? You don’t need a 4WD or rugged off-road gear for these iconic trips—just pack your bags, fuel up, and hit the open road!

Here’s your ultimate guide to the best road trips in Australia for 2025, with one must-see touring route in every state. Let’s roll!

 

 

The Great Ocean Road – Victoria

• Distance: ~240 km
• Route: Torquay to Allansford

Kicking off in Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is arguably the most iconic road trip in Australia. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, the Twelve Apostles, and quaint seaside towns, this coastal drive is perfect for a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.

Highlights:

• Stop at Bells Beach for surfers catching waves.
• Snap photos of the Twelve Apostles at sunset.
• Explore the charming town of Lorne for coffee and local bites.

Tip: Allow at least 2–3 days to make the most of this route—there’s just too much to see!

 

 

Sydney to Byron Bay – New South Wales

• Distance: ~770 km
• Route: Sydney to Byron Bay via Pacific Highway

If laid-back beach vibes are your thing, the coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay is a must. Following the sparkling Pacific coastline, you’ll cruise past beach towns, stunning national parks, and foodie hotspots.

Highlights:

• Take a dip at Newcastle’s ocean baths.
• Stop in Port Macquarie for its coastal walk and koala hospital.
• Spend time in Byron Bay—Australia’s most easterly point.

Tip: Byron’s cafes and surf culture will have you wanting to stay longer—plan accordingly!

 

 

The Nullarbor Plain – South Australia to Western Australia

• Distance: ~1,200 km
• Route: Ceduna SA to Norseman WA

Ready for an Australia road trip with lots of driving and a serious wow factor? The Nullarbor Plain offers one of the most unique and open stretches of road in Australia, and it’ll take you from South Australia to Western Australia! Straight, endless highways surrounded by rugged desert landscapes guarantee this route is unlike any other.

Highlights:

• Drive on Australia’s longest straight road (90 Mile Straight).
• Stop at the Great Australian Bight for jaw-dropping coastal cliffs.
• Spot native wildlife—kangaroos, emus, and wombats abound.

Tip: Fuel up whenever you can—towns are few and far between!

 

 

The Great Alpine Road – Victoria

• Distance: ~300 km
• Route: Wangaratta to Bairnsdale

Victoria gets a second mention because the Great Alpine Road is too good to miss. Winding through the Victorian Alps, this Australian winter road trip delivers alpine beauty, scenic mountain towns, and excellent local produce.

Highlights:

• Visit Bright for its picture-perfect streets and local breweries.
• Take in views from Mount Hotham, even in summer.
• Stop by Gippsland Lakes for boating and fresh seafood.

Tip: Even in summer, pack a jacket—the mountain air can get chilly!

 

 

The Cairns to Cape Tribulation Drive – Queensland

• Distance: ~140 km
• Route: Cairns to Cape Tribulation via the Captain Cook Highway

Lush rainforests meet crystal-clear waters on this stunning drive in Far North Queensland. The road trip route follows the coast, and will take you on a drive from Cairns to the Daintree Rainforest—the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

Highlights:

• Visit Palm Cove for a tropical beach escape.
• Stop at Mossman Gorge for swimming and a rainforest walk.
• Take a ferry across the Daintree River to Cape Tribulation.

Tip: Keep an eye out for cassowaries, Australia’s elusive and ancient rainforest birds!

 

 

Hobart to Freycinet – Tasmania

• Distance: ~200 km
• Route: Hobart to Freycinet National Park

Tasmania’s east coast provides an epic Australian road trip and a laid-back vibe. With pristine beaches, wineries, and coastal scenery, the drive to Freycinet National Park is the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Highlights:

• Stop in Orford for a coffee with beachside views.
• Visit Freycinet to hike Wineglass Bay for panoramic vistas.
• Taste fresh oysters at Coles Bay—it doesn’t get fresher than this.

Tip: Consider staying overnight near Freycinet to catch sunrise over Wineglass Bay.

 

 

Darwin to Mataranka – Northern Territory

• Distance: ~425 km
• Route: Darwin to Mataranka via Stuart Highway

The Top End’s tropical landscapes are a road-tripper’s dream! The drive from Darwin to Mataranka is a mix of waterfalls, hot springs, and Indigenous culture. It’s also an easy, sealed road that any vehicle can handle.

Highlights:

• Swim at Litchfield National Park’s stunning waterfalls.
• Visit the natural thermal pools around Mataranka.
• Explore Katherine Gorge by boat or kayak.

Tip: The wet season brings lush beauty, but check for road closures during heavy rains.

 

 

ACT: Canberra to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

• Distance: ~70 km round trip
• Route: Canberra to Cotter Dam to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

This ACT road trip showcases the best of city and nature, all in one adventure. Starting in Australia’s capital, you’ll explore iconic attractions before escaping into tranquil bushland and charming small towns.

Highlights:

• Check out the Parliament House and Australian War Memorial.
• Stroll the wetlands trail at The Sanctuary.
• Witness the engineering marvels along the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail.

Tip: You can complete this trip in a day, but 2 days will give you more time to enjoy each stop!

 

 

Perth to Margaret River – Western Australia

• Distance: ~270 km
• Route: Perth to Margaret River via Kwinana Freeway

Calling all foodies and wine lovers! The drive from Perth to Margaret River is as delicious as it is beautiful. Rolling vineyards, coastal cliffs, and endless gourmet stops make this an indulgent yet easy Western Australia road trip.

Highlights:

• Stop at Busselton Jetty, the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Taste world-class wines in Margaret River’s cellar doors.
• Enjoy a picnic at Hamelin Bay and spot stingrays in shallow waters.

Tip: Allow time to explore the local produce—cheese, chocolate, and coffee are just the start!

 

FAQs

Q: Do I need a 4WD for these road trips?
A: Nope! All the routes mentioned here are sealed and suitable for campervans.

Q: What’s the best time of year for these road trips?
A: Summer (December to February) is ideal for coastal trips in states like Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania. Autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) are great for avoiding the extreme heat in states like Western Australia and Queensland. It is best to visit Darwin during winter (June-August), which is the dry season.

Q: How long should I allow for each road trip?
A: Most of these routes can be done in 2–7 days, depending on how many stops you plan to make.

 

Ready to Hit the Road?

These are some of the best Australian road trips! Whether you’re chasing coastal views, ancient rainforests, or outback horizons, you can find a stunning drive in Australia just about anywhere! So, where will your 2025 adventure begin?

If you’re looking for some more inspiration for your road trip, check out our itineraries! We also have a guide that can teach you some thrifty seasonal tips for stretching your budget.

Ready to start your trip? Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans we have available at our branches!