Are you a road trip enthusiast looking for your next adventure? Look no further than Australia’s stunning coastline! With miles of beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views, there is nothing quite like exploring the country by car. From the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales, we’ve rounded up five of the best coastal drives that should definitely be on your bucket list. So buckle up and get ready to hit the open road – these scenic routes are not to be missed!
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Stretching along the southeastern coast of Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives. This 243-kilometre route takes you past some of the country’s most stunning natural landmarks.
Starting in Torquay, you’ll wind your way through lush rainforests and quaint seaside towns before reaching the twelve Apostles – a series of towering limestone stacks that rise up from the ocean. Along the way, be sure to stop at Bells Beach for some world-class surfing or take a dip in Lorne’s sparkling waters.
For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping as well as breathtaking helicopter tours over the coastline. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for native wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos!
With its stunning scenery and endless activities, it’s no wonder that the Great Ocean Road is considered one of Australia’s must-see destinations. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
The Sunshine Coast, Queensland
The Sunshine Coast is a popular coastal drive destination in Queensland, Australia. This 65 km stretch of white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Explore the charming towns like Noosa Heads, Coolum Beach, Maroochydore, Caloundra and Mooloolaba that are dotted along this stunning coastline. Each town has its own unique identity and charm that will make your drive all the more enjoyable.
One of the must-visit attractions on this route is the Glass House Mountains National Park which features distinctive volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the surrounding landscape offering breathtaking views of the coast.
For those who love wildlife, there’s plenty to see too! Take a detour to Fraser Island – one of the world’s largest sand islands where you can spot humpback whales during their annual migration season or take a guided tour through Australia Zoo – a famous wildlife conservation park founded by Steve Irwin.
Whatever your interests may be, The Sunshine Coast in Queensland has something for everyone making it an ideal holiday destination for families or couples alike.
The Coral Coast, Western Australia
The Coral Coast in Western Australia is a stunning destination that offers visitors an unforgettable coastal drive experience. The region boasts over 1,100 kilometers of pristine coastline and stretches from Shark Bay to Ningaloo Reef.
One of the highlights of this drive is Monkey Mia, where you can witness dolphins swimming up close to shore. Another must-visit attraction along the route is Kalbarri National Park, which features rugged gorges and spectacular coastal cliffs.
For those who love marine life, the Ningaloo Reef provides amazing opportunities for snorkeling or diving with whale sharks and manta rays. And if you’re looking for some relaxation after all that adventure, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to unwind on along the way.
The Coral Coast delivers a unique combination of natural beauty and adventure that will leave any traveler feeling awe-inspired by its vastness and diversity.
The Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
The Sapphire Coast in New South Wales offers some of the most stunning coastal drives in Australia. The scenic route stretches from Bermagui to Tathra and is filled with breathtaking views of the coastline, forests, and wildlife.
One of the must-see sights on this drive is Mimosa Rocks National Park, where visitors can explore secluded beaches, shimmering rock pools, and impressive headlands. Another highlight is Camel Rock Beach, known for its unique rock formations that resemble a camel’s hump.
For those interested in history and culture, the town of Eden offers an insight into Australia’s whaling past. Visitors can take a tour at the Eden Killer Whale Museum or watch whales from shore during migration season.
Foodies will also enjoy their time on the Sapphire Coast as it boasts fresh seafood such as oysters harvested straight from Pambula Lake.
The Sapphire Coast drive promises unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers seeking adventure road trips down under!
The Great Southern Touring Route, Tasmania
There you have it, the best Australian coastal drives to add to your bucket list. From the breathtaking views of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to the stunning Coral Coast in Western Australia, these scenic routes offer a unique experience that’s worth exploring.
And last but not least, we have The Great Southern Touring Route in Tasmania. This 900-kilometer drive is a journey through time and history with picturesque scenery along the way. You’ll pass through quaint towns and villages such as Port Fairy and Portland before reaching iconic landmarks like Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
The route takes you through national parks offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing or simply indulging yourself in nature’s beauty. And if you’re lucky enough during winter months (June-August), you may even catch sight of southern lights illuminating skies over Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next road trip and let these Australian coastal drives take your breath away!
