Australia’s Best Coastal Drives: Unforgettable Road Trips Along the Coastline
Australia’s coastline, spanning over 25,000 kilometers, is home to some of the world’s most scenic road trips. These coastal drives offer spectacular views, breathtaking beaches, unique wildlife, and charming coastal towns that make every stop worthwhile. Here’s a guide to some of the best coastal drives in Australia, from the iconic Great Ocean Road to hidden gems along the Coral Coast and beyond.
1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
- Distance: 243 km (151 miles)
- Highlights: 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Otway National Park, charming seaside towns
Arguably the most famous scenic drive in Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a must-visit for travelers. This drive from Torquay to Allansford unveils stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and unique rock formations. The most iconic landmark along this route is the 12 Apostles, limestone pillars rising majestically from the Southern Ocean. Don’t miss Loch Ard Gorge for an up-close view of rugged cliffs and Otway National Park for lush rainforests, waterfalls, and treetop adventures. Charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay offer excellent cafes, art galleries, and warm hospitality, perfect for a scenic rest along the way.
2. The Pacific Coast Drive, New South Wales to Queensland
- Distance: Approximately 900 km (560 miles)
- Highlights: Byron Bay, Gold Coast, national parks, crystal-clear beaches
Stretching from Sydney to Brisbane, the Pacific Coast Drive is an ideal coastal road trip for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. This route takes travelers past some of Australia’s most famous beaches, such as Byron Bay, known for its laid-back vibe, lighthouse, and iconic surf culture. Further north, the Gold Coast dazzles with skyscrapers, theme parks, and expansive golden beaches. New South Wales’ Central Coast and Northern Rivers areas are dotted with beachside towns, offering cozy spots to stop and enjoy local seafood, scenic viewpoints, and unique wildlife sightings, including migrating whales from May to November.
3. The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales
- Distance: 140 km (87 miles)
- Highlights: Sea Cliff Bridge, Royal National Park, Kiama Blowhole, Jervis Bay
Starting from Sydney and ending in Shoalhaven, the Grand Pacific Drive is one of the most picturesque coastal drives in Australia. The route begins with the Sea Cliff Bridge, an architectural marvel that curves around rugged cliffs over the ocean, offering breathtaking views. Continuing south, the drive passes through Royal National Park—Australia’s oldest national park—with opportunities for hiking and spotting native wildlife. Another must-visit attraction is the Kiama Blowhole, where ocean waves shoot water high into the air. For pristine white sands, Jervis Bay is famous for Hyams Beach, one of the world’s whitest beaches, and great for snorkeling, kayaking, and beachside relaxation.
4. The Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania
- Distance: 176 km (109 miles)
- Highlights: Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay, Binalong Bay
On Tasmania’s east coast, the Great Eastern Drive is a stunning coastal journey filled with natural beauty and historical charm. Starting from Orford and ending in St Helens, this drive takes travelers to some of Tasmania’s top attractions. The Bay of Fires is known for its bright orange boulders and crystal-clear waters—ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and photography. Freycinet National Park is home to the famous Wineglass Bay, where turquoise waters meet white sands in a breathtaking crescent shape. Along the way, stop at Binalong Bay to explore its unique coastal scenery, and don’t forget to sample local wines and oysters in Swansea.
5. The Coral Coast Drive, Western Australia
- Distance: Approximately 1,250 km (776 miles)
- Highlights: Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay, Ningaloo Reef
The Coral Coast Drive from Perth to Exmouth is a journey through some of Western Australia’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes. The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park features eerie limestone pillars rising from golden sands. Further north, Kalbarri National Park boasts stunning coastal cliffs and river gorges, along with the unique Nature’s Window rock formation. Shark Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique stromatolites and friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia. A must-do experience is snorkeling or diving in Ningaloo Reef, where you can swim with whale sharks and explore one of the world’s largest fringing coral reefs.
6. Great Barrier Reef Drive, Queensland
- Distance: 140 km (87 miles)
- Highlights: Cairns, Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation
The Great Barrier Reef Drive between Cairns and Cape Tribulation is a road trip of tropical bliss. This route hugs the coast, offering views of turquoise waters and lush rainforests. Port Douglas is a popular stop with beautiful Four Mile Beach and excellent access to the Great Barrier Reef. From there, head north into the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, and cross the Daintree River to explore Cape Tribulation, where the reef meets the rainforest. This drive is not only a visual treat but also an excellent way to experience two World Heritage-listed areas in one region.
7. Southern Ocean Drive, South Australia
- Distance: Approximately 320 km (199 miles)
- Highlights: Coorong National Park, Limestone Coast, Mount Gambier, Kangaroo Island
The Southern Ocean Drive stretches from Adelaide to the Limestone Coast, offering a scenic route through South Australia’s coastal gems. Start with Coorong National Park, known for its serene lagoons and abundant birdlife. The drive continues to the Limestone Coast, where you can explore Robe, a charming seaside town with historical buildings and great seafood. Mount Gambier is another highlight, with the famous Blue Lake, which turns vibrant blue in summer. For an unforgettable detour, take a ferry to Kangaroo Island to see its diverse wildlife, rugged coastline, and stunning beaches.
Tips for Coastal Road Trips in Australia
- Best Time to Go: Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot in northern areas, while winters bring rain to the south.
- Driving Tips: Drive on the left, stay well-stocked on fuel and supplies, and check local road conditions, as some coastal roads are remote.
- Wildlife Caution: Be mindful of wildlife crossing the roads, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Conclusion
Australia’s coastal drives are some of the best ways to experience the country’s natural beauty, wildlife, and diverse culture. From the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the tropical bliss of the Great Barrier Reef Drive, each route offers unique experiences and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready to explore the stunning coastline of Australia—one road trip at a time.
To dive deeper into Australia's stunning coastal routes and plan your perfect road trip adventure, visit this comprehensive guide that highlights all the scenic stops along the way.