"Standing at the limit of an endless ocean…" Few songs capture the spirit of Australia quite like Great Southern Land. Its sweeping lyrics evoke images of vast horizons, shifting landscapes and the sense of freedom that comes with the open road.
People travel from all over the world to witness the untouched beauty of the outback, the winding coastal highways and the remote towns of Australia that hold stories of the past.
This guide is packed with practical recommendations, must-see stops and itineraries to help you plan the ultimate road trip. So pack up your car, fuel your tank and hit play on your road trip playlist and get ready to experience the true Great Southern Land.
The Great River Road
Set between two of Australia’s most stunning natural landmarks, the Murray River and the Snowy Mountains, the Great River Road is a 155-kilometre stretch of breathtaking high-country scenery in Victoria’s North East.
Travelling from the east, the journey begins in Khancoban, a township set at the foothills of Kosciuszko National Park. As you visit the Great River Road from this direction, you’ll pass through fertile river flats and the rolling valleys of the Upper Murray, framed by the rugged beauty of the Australian bush.
If you're starting from the west, begin your adventure in Bellbridge, following the shoreline of Lake Hume as it leads you to the Murray’s upper reaches. Here, the river narrows and its waters become cleaner and clearer, guiding you toward sweeping views of the Snowy Mountains.
Keep an eye out for scar trees, ancient rock art and stories etched into the landscape, reminders of a rich natural history that runs deeper than the river itself.
Pacific Coast Touring Route
This legendary 1,000-kilometer (621-mile) drive from Sydney to Brisbane is a journey of world-class wine, stunning beaches and ancient rainforests. Whether you're after gourmet food, coastal hikes or thrilling wildlife encounters, there's something for every kind of road tripper.
Stop in the Hunter Valley for award-winning wines, take a detour to Port Stephens for dolphin spotting and sand dune adventures or stretch your legs at the iconic Big Banana in Coffs Harbour. Byron Bay offers everything from skydiving to laid-back beachside cafes perfect for people watching, while the Gold Coast tempts with surf breaks and theme parks.
The best time to hit the road? Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer the perfect balance of sunshine and mild temperatures. Expect warm coastal breezes and plenty of opportunities for ocean swims year-round.
Great Barrier Reef Drive
The Great Barrier Reef Drive, stretching 140 km from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, is an unforgettable coastal road trip that takes you through two World Heritage Areas.
Expect to encounter some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes from the vibrant coastal town of Port Douglas to the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Be on the lookout for crocodiles, cassowaries and plenty of opportunities to spot the natural wonders of the reef and rainforest.
If you're a fan of wildlife and adventure, this drive is a must. Whether you're swimming in crystal-clear creeks, taking a guided Aboriginal tour or enjoying jungle surfing in Cape Tribulation, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of the region.
The Great Barrier Reef is facing the impacts of climate change and coral bleaching, so it’s essential to be an eco-conscious traveller. Choose eco-friendly tours and activities, like reef-safe snorkelling and sustainable wildlife encounters, to help preserve this natural wonder for generations to come.
The Great Eastern Drive
The Great Eastern Drive is a scenic road trip along Tasmania’s sunny east coast, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and local culture. From the iconic wombats and Tasmanian devils on Maria Island to little penguins waddling ashore in Bicheno, the region is home to some of Australia’s most unique creatures.
Wander the flawless sands of Wineglass Bay, explore the colourful Bay of Fires or enjoy the solitude of Spring Beach. These untouched stretches of coastline are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply appreciating nature's beauty.
No road trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine, and the Great Eastern Drive delivers. Fresh seafood is a major draw, with opportunities to sample oysters directly from the source at places like Melshell Oysters and Freycinet Marine Farm.
Don’t miss a visit to the Lobster Shack in Bicheno for a waterfront feast or enjoy a wine-tasting experience at one of the many cellar doors along the East Coast Wine Trail, where cool-climate wines are paired perfectly with the stunning scenery.
Red Centre Way
The Red Centre Way is an approximately 1,130 kilometres long road trip in the heart of Australia's outback.
Starting in Alice Springs, this epic journey winds through red desert sands, dramatic gorges, and tranquil waterholes, bringing you to iconic landmarks like the West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon and the famous Uluru.
One of the highlights of this road trip is the chance to immerse yourself in the landscapes of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park. With its chasms, gorges and waterholes like Simpsons Gap and Ellery Creek Big Hole, it’s a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
And of course, no Red Centre road trip would be complete without a visit to Uluru. This iconic rock is a stunning sight and it holds a deep cultural significance for the Anangu people.
Coral Coast Highway
The Coral Coast Highway stretching 1,250 kilometres from Perth to Exmouth, is for good reason regarded as one of Australia's great scenic journeys. Travelling along the Coral Coast Highway you'll be guided to two of Western Australia's three World Heritage Areas, Shark Bay and Ningaloo.
One of the first stops on your journey is the iconic Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, just north of Perth. The eerie, ancient limestone formations rise from the golden sand, creating an out-of-this-world landscape that feels like it belongs on another planet.
Finally reaching Ningaloo Reef, home to the world’s largest fringing reef. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder offers some of the most pristine and biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet, from dolphins and dugongs to sea turtles and vibrant coral gardens.
Whether you choose to snorkel, dive or simply relax on the beach, Ningaloo’s turquoise waters and buzzing marine life provide an unforgettable way to cap off your road trip.
The Great Ocean Road
Built as a memorial to soldiers of World War I, this 243-kilometre scenic drive is an iconic experience winding along towering limestone cliffs, charming seaside towns and lush rainforests and beaches.
One of the Great Ocean Road’s most famous sights is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering limestone stacks rising from the southern ocean. Other must-visit coastal landmarks include Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and The Grotto each with its own fascinating history and stunning scenery.
While erosion has reduced their numbers over time, the spectacle of these rugged formations against the crashing waves is nothing short of breathtaking.
Anglesea Golf Course isn’t just for golfers anymore, word has spread about its resident eastern grey kangaroos. Once a local secret, this unique wildlife experience gives visitors the chance to get up close with the kangaroos as they lounge on the greens or hop playfully between fairways.
Nullarbor Plain
Spanning South Australia to Western Australia the Nullarbor takes you across ancient landscapes, towering sea cliffs and some of the longest, straightest roads in the world. Despite its name (‘Nullarbor’ means ‘no trees’) there’s plenty to see along the way.
Out here you’ll meet road-trippers, truckies and backpackers swapping stories at roadhouses, while kangaroos, wombats and wild camels roam the plains. Off the Bunda Cliffs southern right whales put on a show and when night falls, the outback sky lights up with thousands of stars.
Winter offers cooler days and prime whale-watching, while summer brings scorching heat but stunningly clear nights and refreshing swims at remote beaches.
The 1,200 km stretch between Ceduna and Norseman has plenty of roadhouses for fuel and supplies, but preparation is key. A well-checked car, plenty of water and avoiding night driving will keep your trip smooth and safe.
Heritage Highway
Originally carved out by convict road gangs in the early 19th century this historic route stretches between Hobart and Launceston, winding through sandstone towns, convict-built bridges and colonial-era landmarks.
What was once a rough track for carts and cattle is now a scenic drive packed with stories of Tasmania’s early days. The towns of Oatlands, Ross, and Perth are brimming with beautifully preserved Georgian architecture.
Oatlands alone has over 150 colonial sandstone buildings, the largest collection in Australia. And for a deeper dive into convict history, visit the Ross Female Factory Historic Site, once a probation station for female convicts and their children.
Though the Heritage Highway takes just over two hours to drive, it’s worth slowing down to explore the stories etched into Tasmania’s landscape.
The Grand Pacific Drive
The Grand Pacific Drive stretches 140 km from Sydney’s Royal National Park, winding through rainforests, across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and into seaside towns like Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama.
The road leads through the Shoalhaven where white-sand beaches, rolling vineyards and marine sanctuaries offer the perfect escape. From Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay, the coastline is dotted with hidden coves and charming towns where fresh seafood and local markets await.
Keep heading south into Eurobodalla and the Sapphire Coast, where beachside cliffs meet crystal-clear waters and national parks stretch as far as the eye can see. Stop in Narooma for its famous turquoise waters, Bermagui for its legendary Blue Pool and Eden to spot migrating whales.
Time to Hit the Road
Whether you're cruising with the family, flying solo or catching up with your besties there’s something about a road trip through Australia that just feels right.
It’s the perfect way to experience the true essence of our great southern land. The stunning contrast between the red deserts and lush rainforests, the rugged coastlines and rolling countryside. Every turn brings something new, something wild.
So pack up, hit the road and let the journey show you what Australia is all about.
