Best Australian Road Trips to do this summer

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Summer 2025/26 is shaping up to be one for the books. And if road trips Australia-wide are already calling your name, you’re not alone. As the mercury rises and the days grow longer, the call of Australia’s open roads gets harder to ignore.  

It’s the season for salty air, sunset swims and cracking open the esky at a roadside lookout. Whether you’re planning a big family adventure or a relaxed coastal escape, nothing beats the freedom of choosing your own route, waking up somewhere new, and knowing everything you need is travelling with you. 

To help you make the most of it, we’ve rounded up seven incredible road trips across Australia. Every route is packed with unforgettable views, hidden gems, and the kind of wide-open beauty that stays with you long after the journey ends. 

Why road trips are the ultimate summer adventure 

There’s nothing quite like an Australian summer road trip. It’s that electric feeling of freedom as you leave the city behind, with the windows down, breeze in your hair, music playing, and the whole country stretching out ahead of you. 

What makes it one to truly remember is the way it blends flexibility, comfort and connection all in one unforgettable journey. You’re not locked into schedules or fixed destinations on the open road. Simply follow the sunshine, find the best surf, or stay longer when a spot steals your heart. 

And the beauty of travelling by caravan? You take the comforts of home with you. With space to cook, sleep and unwind—plus cool air on warm nights—you can focus on what really matters; that is, slowing down, sharing moments, and soaking up the road together. 

From toasting marshmallows by the fire and slow brekkies with a view, to stumbling across a hidden beach with no one else in sight, road tripping opens up a side of Australia most people never get to see. 

Top Australian road trips for summer 

With the van packed, the esky chilled, and the whole family buzzing with excitement, only one question remains—where to first? 

To help you plan the ultimate road trips Australia has to offer this summer, we’ve rounded up seven unforgettable hotspots worth adding to your list. Each one offers its own flavour of freedom, wonder and wide-open beauty. 

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1. The Great Ocean Road (VIC) 

A classic coastal drive with cinematic views at every turn. Wind your way along dramatic cliffs, past golden beaches and sleepy seaside towns. This route is iconic for a reason.

Don’t miss:  

  • Marvel at the towering Twelve Apostles rising from the wild Southern Ocean. 
  • Grab classic fish and chips and watch the waves roll in at Lorne. 
  • Take a refreshing dip in the calm, clear waters of Apollo Bay. 
  • Wander beneath ancient ferns and towering gums in Great Otway National Park. 

Perfect for: 

  • Families 
  • First-time road trippers 
  • Ocean lovers 

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2. Tasmania’s East Coast 

Slow-paced and spectacular, Tassie’s east coast is all about white sands, turquoise waters and cool-climate treats. With fewer crowds and endless scenic pull-ups, it’s made for those who like their summer with a side of serenity. 

Don’t miss:  

  • Stroll the glowing orange boulders and white sands of the Bay of Fires. 
  • Hike to the lookout at Wineglass Bay for one of Tasmania’s most iconic views. 
  • Savour just-shucked oysters by the water in Freycinet National Park. 

Perfect for: 

  • Couples 
  • Nature lovers 
  • Gourmet travellers 

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3. The Savannah Way (QLD to WA) 

This legendary transcontinental route stretches over 3,700 kilometres from tropical Cairns in Queensland to the pearling town of Broome in Western Australia. 

Crossing through the heart of the Top End, it’s one of Australia’s great overland adventures. Rich with Indigenous history, outback towns, and natural wonders carved by time. Expect long red dirt roads, remote national parks, and the kind of silence that only exists in true wilderness. 

Don’t miss:  

  • Wander through the ancient underground world of Undara Lava Tubes. 
  • Glide past towering cliffs and serene waters in a canoe at Katherine Gorge. 
  • Watch the sun paint the sky over the otherworldly domes of the Bungle Bungles. 

Perfect for: 

  • Seasoned travellers 
  • Grey nomads 
  • Those in fully off-road setups like the Hornet 

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4. Sydney to Cairns (East Coast) 

This classic Aussie coastal adventure covers more than 2,400 kilometres of ever-changing scenery. It’s a road trip that’s all about variety, offering everything from golden beaches and surf towns to lush rainforests and vibrant regional hubs.  

You’ll cruise past rolling vineyards, explore national parks teeming with wildlife, and dip into warm coastal waters whenever the mood strikes. With theme parks, aquariums and beachside playgrounds along the way, it’s a true winner for adventure-loving families. 

Don’t miss:  

  • Sip your way through cellar doors in the Hunter Valley. 
  • Soak up the sun and surf at Port Macquarie’s golden beaches. 
  • Snap a selfie and grab a treat at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour. 
  • Get your adrenaline fix at the Gold Coast’s world-famous theme parks. 

Perfect for: 

  • Families 
  • Surfers 
  • Lovers of culture, sunshine and sea 

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5. Eyre Peninsula Loop (South Australia) 

Rugged and remote, this loop is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. The journey takes you along dramatic coastal cliffs, windswept beaches, and quiet fishing towns where the seafood is as fresh as it gets. 

Expect wild scenery, world-class oysters and unforgettable wildlife encounters, from dolphins and sea lions to great whites (if you’re game!). 

 Don’t miss: 

  • Slurping fresh oysters straight from the source in Coffin Bay. 
  • Cage diving with great whites off the coast of Port Lincoln 
  • Swimming with sea lions at Baird Bay for a playful, once-in-a-lifetime encounter. 

Perfect for: 

  • Foodies 
  • Fishing enthusiasts 
  • Those seeking space to themselves 

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6. Perth to Exmouth / Ningaloo Reef (WA) 

A journey that takes you from the bustle of Perth to one of Australia’s most untouched marine wonderlands.  

Along the way, you’ll travel through striking desert landscapes, explore national parks, and arrive at the world-heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. Here you can swim with whale sharks, snorkel vibrant coral gardens, and unwind in laid-back coastal towns. 

 Don’t miss: 

  • Gaze up at a sky full of stars above the staggering limestone spires of the Pinnacles Desert. 
  • Follow rugged cliffside trails with ocean views through Kalbarri’s dramatic coastline. 
  • Drift through turquoise waters and explore Coral Bay’s vibrant marine life. 
  • Come face-to-fin with gentle giants on a once-in-a-lifetime whale shark swim at Ningaloo Reef. 

Perfect for: 

  • Snorkellers 
  • Marine life lovers 
  • Those with rugged off-grid setups 

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7. Cairns to Cape Tribulation (QLD) 

Short in distance but big on beauty. This lush tropical drive takes you deep into the Daintree, where the rainforest meets the reef and every twist in the road feels like another world. 

Don’t miss: 

  • Cruise the Daintree River and spot crocs gliding through the mangroves. 
  • Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Mossman Gorge. 
  • Set up camp right on the sand and fall asleep to the sound of waves at Cape Tribulation. 

 Perfect for: 

  • Young families 
  • Wildlife lovers 
  • Eco-conscious explorers 

Tips for a successful Australian summer road trip 

Planning to hit the road this summer with kids in tow? Here are a few easy tips to help keep your road trip cool, comfortable and stress-free, especially when the scorching summer temperatures climb. 

  • Beat the heat: Use awnings for shade, travel early in the day, and keep hydration front of mind.
  • Stay cool: Reverse-cycle air con and built-in fans in your Wonderland RV help regulate temperatures, even in the tropics.
  • Book ahead: Popular caravan parks along the coast fill quickly, so secure your stays early.
  • Check your setup: Before hitting the road, do a full safety check on tyres, water tanks and power systems.
  • Respect the land: Teach kids about caring for Country and always follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles. 

Why choose Wonderland RV for your summer road trip 

If you’re dreaming of the open road this summer, your caravan matters just as much as the map. A Wonderland RV isn’t just built to take you there. It’s built to make every kilometre more comfortable, capable and memorable. 

  • Designed for tough conditions: Heavy-duty suspension and durable builds handle heat, dust, and rough terrain with ease.
  • Go off-grid longer: With solar, lithium batteries and custom grey water tanks, you’re free to roam far from powered sites.
  • Layouts for real families: Bunks, smart storage and tailored interiors mean space and comfort for every crew.
  • Built to go the distance: Award-winning craftsmanship, premium materials and serious attention to detail ensure peace of mind every kilometre. 

Start your summer adventure in a Wonderland RV built for the road ahead 

This summer, don’t just travel. Explore! From coast to outback, rainforest to reef, Australia’s most unforgettable road trips are waiting. And with a custom-built Wonderland RV behind you, the journey becomes just as memorable as the destination. 

Tailored to your lifestyle and tough enough for any terrain, our caravans offer the freedom to roam, the comfort to relax, and the space to bring everyone—and everything—you love along for the ride. 

So where will you go first? Wherever the road takes you, make it your best summer yet with a van that’s built for adventure. Reach out to our friendly team today about getting your custom build ready for summer. 

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