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Home » Oceania » Best Road Trips in Victoria (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips in Victoria (Insider Guide for 2024)

Victoria may be one of Australia’s smallest states – but it’s brimming with all kinds of breathtaking sights to satisfy your wanderlust. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, alone easily trumps  all  lists on the most liveable (not to mention the coolest) cities down under.

But, only a short drive outside Melbourne, and you’ve got a myriad of national parks, dope surfing, and quirky Gold Rush cities.

We say  drive  because road trips in Victoria are the best way to make the most of what this beautiful state has to offer. It gives you the freedom to really take your time and find those hidden sweet-spots where the public buses don’t go.

But when it comes to planning a road trip in Victoria – where should you  start?

Well, here! We’ve mapped out three adventurous itineraries for you to choose  from – all  you have to worry about  is what day you hit the road.

Let’s dive in and get those bags packed.

east coast victoria road trip

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Road Trip in Victoria

Why Roadtrip in Victoria?

The great ocean road – plus, alpine discovery, the melbourne inland loop , driving in victoria, insurance in victoria, what to pack for a road trip in victoria, final thoughts on the best road trips in victoria .

Not sure a road trip is the best way to get around? Well, here are five reasons why we think it’s a win-win. 

  • Year-round appeal: It’s true you’ll want your layers during the winter months. But even with a frosty nip in the air, road trips in Victoria are always a recipe for adventure. What’s not to love about snow capped mountains and diminished crowds?
  • The Great Ocean Road: Victoria is home to one of the world’s most talked-about road trips. This is a chance to see those famous limestone towers for yourself and experience some of the best surf in the world. 
  • Awesome national parks: While the Australian coast gets (and deserves) a lot of the glory, there is plenty of scope for avid hikers and rainforest lovers in Victoria. 
  • Remarkable wildlife: From koalas to penguins, Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most exotic and endangered wildlife.
  • Tasty tucker: While on the road, you can enjoy simple fish ‘n’ chips on the beach or treat yourself to some of the world’s best oysters.  Victoria is also home to some world-class wine cellars for you to pop your head into.

The Great Ocean Road – Plus (8 days)

Alpine discovery (5 days), the melbourne inland loop (4 days).

Without further ado, here are our Victoria road trip ideas in detail. Starting with:

  • From:  Melbourne
  • To:  Melbourne
  • Total Distance:  1,060 km
  • Days:  8
  • Top road trip stops:  Grampian National Park, Mount Gambier, 12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay, Torquay

The Great Ocean Road - Plus

The Great Ocean Road is arguably one of the best road trips in Australia . But why stop there? Our ultimate itinerary takes you beyond the magnificent Limestone Coast. This epic 8-day road trip also includes lush national parks, a deluxe spa town, and cities built upon ancient volcanoes.

Road trip highlights:

  • Cruise the legendary 243 kilometres that comprise the Great Ocean Road
  • Catch a wave in Torquay – Australia’s Surf Capital
  • Marvel at the volcanic landscape of Mount Gambier
  • Explore the fern gullies and waterfalls of the Grampian National Park
  • Sight whales off Logan’s Beach (May – October) and look for wild koalas in the gum trees at Kennett River

Day 1: Melbourne to Daylesford (2 hours)

Melbourne to Daylesford

Skip the freeway and take the backroads that skirt the eastern rim of the Lerderderg State Park. Stop off at Mount Macedon – a town overflowing with gardens built beneath a dormant volcano. Once in Daylesford, soak up the natural mineral waters – it’s a spa town after all.

The Hepburn Springs Bathhouse is the place to go if you’re feeling flush. The Hepburn Springs Bathhouse is the place to go if you’re feeling flush. On the other hand, the Peninsula Hot Springs cater to budget backpackers looking to get hot and muddy. Accommodation in town isn’t cheap, but you can head up the road to Hepburn Springs and score yourself a free camping spot.

  • Best stops: Mount Macedon, Trentham Falls, Wombat Hills Botanical Gardens, Lake Daylesford, Hepburn Springs
  • Where to eat: The Nook Cafe (Sunbury), Top of the Range Tea Rooms (Mount Macedon), Cliffy’s (Daylesford)
  • Where to stay: Mount Franklin Reserve (free), Dulwich Studio -a cosy 1br cottage ($$$), Albert Guesthouse and Mills Spa Suites ($$$)

Day 2-3: Daylesford to Halls Gap (2 hours)

Now that you’re feeling zen, you can tackle the sights of one of Victoria’s treasures – the Grampians. On the way, why not take a detour via 1852. The town of Sovereign Hill is basically a living museum – it’s not changed a bit since the Gold Rush.

Once at Halls Gap you’ll find hiking trails, Aboriginal rock art, the MacKenzie Falls, and natural waterslides to explore. Spend a couple of nights in Halls Gap to make the most of the park.

  • Best stops: Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Ararat
  • Where to eat: Yellow Espresso (Ballarat), Waack’s Bakery (Ararat), Bushfoods Cafe & Restaurant (Halls Gap)
  • Where to stay: Grampians Eco YHA ($), Modern Caravan ($$), The Grampians Mote ($$)

Day 4: Halls Gap to Mount Gambier (2 hours 30 minutes)

Halls Gap to Mount Gambier Victoria

We’ll leave the highlands behind and travel to one of South Australia’s best-kept secrets today: the Blue Lake of Mount Gambier. There are several places to stop for a short hike along the way, including the Mount Abrupt trail. Mount Gambier is a small town just over the state border that is built on the slopes of a volcano.

Once you’ve arrived, stroll around the cobalt blue crater lake, dive into a cenote, and wander the sunken garden of the Umpherston Sinkhole. Divers can book a magical underwater tour of the Engelbrecht Caves, while hikers can trek around the Blue Lake.

  • Best stops: Mount Abrupt, The Piccaninny, Hamilton
  • Where to eat:  Izzy’s Cafe (Dunkeld), The Roxburgh (Hamilton), Limestone Coast Pantry (Mount Gambier).
  • Where to stay: Tarpeena Recreation Ground (free) The Old Mount Gambier Gaol ($$), Annie’s Apartment ($$$)

Day 5: Mount Gambier to Princetown (3 hours)

And back into Victoria! Stop at Discovery Bay to kayak, or Cape Bridgewater to spot the furry colony  on the ‘Seal Walk’. You can even do a cage dive if you want to get even closer.

Once you leave the cute seaside town of Port Fairy, you’ll officially enter the Great Ocean Road leg of the journey, and those legendary limestone shapes will start to rise from the roaring surf.

There’ll be plenty of time to stop at the various lookouts for photos before catching the sunset over the 12 Apostles.

  • Best stops: Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Cape Bridgewater, Port Fairy, Warrnambool, London Bridge, The Arch, The Grotto,12 Apostles
  • Where to eat:  The Brass Compass (Bridgewater), Charlie’s On East (Port Fairy), 12 Apostles Inn (Princetown)
  • Where to stay: The 13th Apostle Backpackers ($), Princetown Recreation Reserve ($), Twelve Apostles Motel Comfort Queen Bedroom ($$)

Day 6: Princetown to Apollo Bay (1 hour)

Princetown to Apollo Bay

No Victorian road trip is complete without catching the sunrise. So, get up early and catch first light over the 12 Apostles.

You only have one hour behind the wheel today, which is for the best as you have your second national park on the agenda. The rugged hinterland of Great Otway is one of Australia’s best national parks , and is excellent for hiking and chasing waterfalls. Ride the local zipline for a quick adrenaline rush and view of the canopy.

The  welcoming Apollo Bay will be home for tonight. Nestled in the foothills of the park you can swim, surf, and kayak alongside the fur seals.

  • Best stops: 12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Marriner’s Lookout
  • Where to eat:  Tiny Village Cafe (Lavers Hill), Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-op
  • Where to stay: Apollo Bay Eco YHA ($), Surfside Backpacker ($$) Spa Woodfire Studio Apartment ($$$)

Day 7: Apollo Bay to Torquay (1 hour 30 minutes)

Take a break at Kennett River for a chance to spot wild koalas in the gum trees, and stop off at the lively beach resort of Lorne for lunch. We hope you like waterfalls – there are ten around the town to explore.

Park overnight up at Aireys Beach for a spot of surfing at Fairhaven Beach, or snorkelling at Step Beach. Tonight, let your salty hair down in Australia’s Surf Capital – one of the coolest places to stay on the Great Ocean Road.

  • Best stops: Carisbrook Waterfall, Kennett River, Aireys Inlet, Lorne
  • Where to eat:  Kafe Koala (Kennett River), The Salty Dog Fish & Chippery (Lorne), Fishos (Torquay)
  • Where to stay: Bells Beach Backpackers ($), The View on Grossmans ($$), Bells Beach Shack ($$$)

Day 8: Torquay to Melbourne (1 hour 30 minutes)

Torquay to Melbourne Victoria

The final stretch of the road trip is short, so take the morning to soak up the atmosphere of Torquay. The best waves are at Bells Beach, while Front Beach is less daunting for surf newbies.

On the approach to Melbourne, stretch your legs along the Geelong waterfront or explore the botanical gardens.

Further up the coastal road we’ll come to Melbourne’s first port settlement – Williamstown. Stop to ogle the tall ships, dip into the maritime heritage, and wander the gardens before heading back to one of Melbourne’s best hostels for the night.

  • Best stops: Bells Beach, Geelong, Williamstown
  • Where to eat:  King of the Castle Cafe (Geelong), Hug a Mug Cafe (Williamstown)
  • Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), The Village Melbourne ($$), Bellbird – Free wi-fi plus breakfast first morning ($$)

east coast victoria road trip

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  • From: Wangaratta
  • To: Melbourne
  • Total Distance: 960 km
  • Top road trip stops: Mount Buffalo National Park, Ninety Mile Beach, Wilsons Promontory, Phillip Island

Alpine Discovery

The Great Alpine Road is another of Victoria’s ultimate road trip destinations. Our route takes you beyond the magnificent mountains, down along Victoria’s sand-swept eastern coast.

If you travel the Great Alpine Road during the winter (June-October), don’t forget snow chains for your vehicle and keep an eye on the forecast! The weather in Victoria can be quite unpredictable.

  • Drive the 308 km that form the Great Alpine Road
  • Surf giant dunes and listen to sand that squeaks in Wilsons Promontory
  • Explore the best of the Australian Alps on foot, bike or horseback
  • Hit the slopes at the Hotham Alpine – snow permitting!
  • See the penguins on Phillip Island

*If you start this trip in Melbourne, factor in 2.5-3 hours driving time to our official starting place of Wangaratta. 

Day 1: Wangaratta to Bright (2-3 hours)

Wangaratta to Bright Victoria

We’ll follow the Great Alpine Road south out of Wangaratta. A worthy detour is the town of Beechworth, rich in Gold Rush history and wine culture. Beechworth Honey is a must-go for honey lovers – so feel free to pick up a jar or two.

After passing through a cluster of wineries, your next calling point is the Mount Buffalo National Park. Home to waterfalls, fascinating rock formations and unforgettable views across the Australian Alps, this is perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. 

Choose to camp here overnight or head to the leafy alpine town of Bright and check into a guest house. 

  • Best stops: Beechworth, a Great Alpine Road winery of your choice, Mount Buffalo National Park
  • Where to eat:  The Beechworth Pantry, Alpine Gate Cafe (Myrtleford), Bright Brewery
  • Where to stay: Lake Catani Campground ($) Alpine Sports Lodge ($), The Boathouse Bright ($$)

Day 2: Bright to Omeo (2-3 hours)

After yesterday’s flat drive through farmland, things take a total u-turn as you tackle the stretch that gives the Great Alpine Road its reputation. The road snakes steeply up the mountains, offering beauty in every direction. Stop off at Hotham Alpine resort for skiing in winter or hiking/biking in summer.

Just before you approach Omeo, stop at the Kosciuszko Lookout. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Kosciuszko and Mount Townsend in the distance – the two highest peaks in Oz. 

  • Best stops: Hotham Ski Resort, Danny’s Lookout, Kosciuszko Lookout
  • Where to eat:  Bella’s Cafe (Harrietville), Mountain Kitchen (Dinner Plain), Omeo’s High Plain Bakery
  • Where to stay: Colonial Motel ($$), Omeo Motel ($$)

Day 3: Omeo to Ninety Mile Beach (3 hours)

Ninety Mile Beach Auckland

Spend the morning pottering around the historic town before heading south, completing the Great Alpine Road in Bairnsdale. This is a great place to stop off to learn about the indigenous heritage of the Gunaikurnai people of Gippsland. But the road trip doesn’t end here.

Continue southwest and join the coast at Ninety Mile Beach. As one of the most unspoilt beaches in the country, the beach offers 90 golden miles  of glorious swimming and cycling opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for a dolphin or breaching whale.

  • Best stops: Bairnsdale, Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place
  • Where to eat:  The Pressing Shed Cafe (Tongio), The Wooden Squirrel (Bairnsdale), Redd Cat (Sale)
  • Where to stay: Paradise Beach Campground ($), Cape Cod Apartment ($$) 90 Mile Beach House & Villas ($$$)

Day 4: Ninety Mile Beach to Wilsons Promontory (2 hours 30 minutes)

Follow the coast,stopping along the way to look out at the islands sitting offshore. Today’s destination is mainland Australia’s southernmost tip: Wilson’s Promontory. 

Wilsons Prom is loaded with fun things to do, including snorkelling and surfing. If you don’t fancy getting wet, skip the waves and surf the giant sand dunes instead.

Head down to Squeaky Beach to experience sand that squeaks as you sink your toes into it. Alternatively, there’s a short but tasking hike to reach the summit of Mount Oberon.

  • Best stops: Port Albert, Port Welshpool
  • Where to eat:  Port Albert Cafe & Wine Bar, Latte Dah Cafe (Toora), Wilsons Prom Cafe & Pizza
  • Where to stay: Tidal River Campground ($), Sandy Point Beach Escape ($$), Olivi ($$$)

Day 5: Wilsons Promontory to Melbourne (3 hours 30 minutes)

Wilsons Promontory to Melbourne

All good things must come to an end. Hug the coast all the way back to Melbourne, and stop off at coastal towns and bays along the way. The Bunurong Marine National Park is accessible from Cape Paterson and offers snorkelling with huge fish. Note that the water here is only suitable for strong swimmers.

Phillip Island is one of Melbourne’s ultimate must-sees ; take a detour on the way back and watch the penguins on their sunset waddle! You can opt to stay on the island for a night, or drive the two hours back to Melbourne to complete the trip.

  • Best stops: Sandy Point, Venus Bay, Cape Paterson
  • Where to eat:  Cape Tavern (Cape Paterson), Cheeky Goose Cafe (Phillip Island), Supernormal (Melbourne)
  • Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), Leafy Room with Private Entrance & Bathroom ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

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  • From: Melbourne
  • Total Distance: 655 km
  • Top road trip stops: Daylesford, Bendigo, Mount Buller, Yarra Ranges, Dandenong Ranges

The Melbourne Inland Loop

If you’re looking for a short road trip to fill a long weekend in Melbourne , our short ‘n’ sweet inland loop is perfect. This one explores historic towns, fern glades, and fairytale forests sprinkled around Melbourne. This Victoria road trip itinerary also features mineral springs and wineries – feel free to treat yo’ selves people.

  • Pamper yourself in the spa town of Daylesford
  • Explore the Gold Rush era with Goldfields towns
  • Breathe in the Alpine National Park from the slopes of Mount Buller – plan your road trip in Victoria during winter so you can ski
  • Sip Chardonnay and sparkling wine in the Yarra Valley Wine Region
  • Take to the sky with a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges

Day 1: Melbourne to Daylesford (3 hours)

Melbourne to Daylesford

Head out of Melbourne to Ballarat and wander around the botanical gardens and the lake of this historic town. There’s also the Ballarat Wildlife Park – home to Tasmanian Devils and other Aussie wildlife. Down the road is Sovereign Hill, where you’ll often see people kitted out in 19th-century costumes and horse drawn carriages.

Once at your final destination, Daylesford, you can detox in the mineral waters of the spa town. The Peninsula Hot Springs isn’t exactly cheap, but it is one of the more wallet-friendly options in town.

  • Best stops: Geelong, Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, Hepburn Springs
  • Where to eat:  Oh My Greens (Bacchus Marsh), Tic Tok Cafe (Ballarat), Sophie & Bill’s (Daylesford)

Day 2: Daylesford to Mansfield (3 hours)

Today, you’ll cruise through Victoria’s Goldfields region. Pretty Castlemaine and colourful Bendigo have plenty of galleries, gardens, and eateries to explore. Take a subterranean voyage 225 metres below ground at Bendigo to experience a glimpse into an ancient gold mine. If that’s not for you, check out the retro tramway instead.

Get a burst of adrenaline at Bonnie Doon with some horse trekking or dirt biking. Mansfield is the gateway to exploring the Alpine National Park. In winter, Mount Buller is a powdery wonderland for skiers. Come summer, it transforms into a playground for hikers and mountain bikers.

  • Best stops: Castlemaine, Bendigo, Bonnie Doon, Mount Buller
  • Where to eat:  Fig Cafe (Castlemaine), Ex Lion Tamer (Bendigo), Mansfield Pizza
  • Where to stay: Delatite Hotel ($$), Studiolux ($$$)

Day 3: Mansfield to Yarra Glen (1 hour 30 minutes)

Mansfield to Yarra Glen Victoria

Today, you’ll loop down towards the Yarra Ranges. If you like wine and/or bushwalks, then this is pretty much one of the best things you’ll do while visiting Melbourne. There’s a huge variety of bushwalks to choose from to experience the natural beauty of the wine region.

Meanwhile, the Healesville Animal Sanctuary is home to some of Australia’s most endangered animals. You’ll stay in Yarra Glen, which is handily located close to a scattering of the vineyards. 

  • Best stops: Healesville Animal Sanctuary, Yarra Yarra Valley
  • Where to eat:  Giddy Goat Cafe (Yarck), Marmalades (Yea), Innocent Bystander (Healesville)
  • Where to stay: Yarra Glen Bed & Breakfast ($$), Yarra Glen Peaceful Retreat ($$)

Day 4: Yarra Glen to Melbourne (2 hours)

Head back towards Melbourne via the Dandenong Ranges, an extension of the Yarra Valley. There’s so much to do here, it’s become one of our best places to stay in Melbourne .

Why not start the day with a hot air balloon ride over the verdant plains? The Currawong Bush Park is a great place to stop and look for native wildlife, or try out the zipline at the Glen Harrow.

  • Best stops: Dandenong Ranges, Currawong Bush Park
  • Where to eat:  The Trail Cafe (Mount Evelyn), Miss Marple’s Tea Room (Sassafras), MoVida (Melbourne)
  • Where to stay: Melbourne Hostel ($), Studio Apartment fully furnished ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

Driving in Victoria

Roads in Victoria are a siren’s call for road trippers – they’re sealed and flanked with splendid panoramas. If you plan on driving during winter, take extra precautions as the highlands are subject to snow and ice. Yup, even the land down under experiences the odd snowfall.

Renting a Vehicle in Victoria 

Renting a car or camper in Victoria is a doddle, and a popular choice with backpackers and holidaymakers. You’ll find it easier to rent a vehicle in Melbourne, but it’s possible in smaller cities too. 

You’ll need a valid driver’s licence from your original country to rent a vehicle in Victoria (You’ll also need photo ID if your licence doesn’t have a photocard). If your license isn’t written in English you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

When you pick up your wheels, the agency may add a few fees to your agreement. Make sure you factor these costs in when planning a road trip in Victoria:

  • Age surcharge. You need to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle in Australia, but most companies charge a surcharge for renters under 25.
  • Additional driver(s). If you intend to share the driving, your rental company will add additional drivers to your paperwork. Don’t lie to save the cash – it’s all for insurance purposes!
  • Deposit. You will need to pay a deposit (bond) that covers the vehicle against any unexpected damage. In Victoria, a typical deposit ranges from $200 – $1000. Usually, you must pay by credit card rather than a debit card.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road rules in Victoria

One thing to bear in mind as you plan your road trip in Victoria is the local road rules. Every state/territory in Australia has its own laws in place, and the police don’t take kindly to reckless driving. 

Incidentally, Victoria was the very first place in the world to legislate seatbelts. Now, buckle up and familiarise yourself with a few other handy rules. 

  • Always park in the direction of traffic. That means the nose of your car should face the direction of travel. There’s a penalty of up to AU$165 if you park the other way. 
  • Think before you honk. Australia has a nationwide ban on needless honking, so only do it when it’s deemed necessary.
  • Don’t pick up any hitchhikers in Victoria. It’s illegal (weird, we know) and warrants a $30 fine. 
  • Don’t forget to lock up and roll up the windows when you’re away from your rental. It’s a road rule, but it also keeps out any curious wildlife.
  • Don’t drive too slow! Aussies are extremely laid back, but they don’t mess around. If you want to take in a view, just pull up and have a few minutes break!

Road rules in Victoria

Okay, that’s enough of the rules – it’s time to start your adventure. We’ve compiled the three best road trips in Victoria for you to choose from. Ready?

Drivers in Australia must have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This is a personal injury insurance policy usually included in the rental agreement by default. You might hear it referred to as ‘Green Slip insurance’. 

Your rental rep will give you a quote, but there’s no harm in researching your options.  Consult a third party, such as RentalCover.com who offer transparent, backpacker-friendly policies. Their no-frills, flat fee insurance policies usually include things like Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance. 

In addition, your rental desk will probably try to flog you the likes of an ‘Excess Waiver’, ‘Damage Liability Waiver’ or ‘Reduction Liability Waiver’. This is a fee that brings the remaining excess on your rental to zero. Prices vary but it usually comes in around $20 – $60 per day on top of your rental fee.

We’re sure you’d rather spend your dollars on something much more interesting. That’s why we suggest you do your research before travelling Australia , and use an independent insurance company when you plan your road trip in Victoria.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

east coast victoria road trip

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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Gifts for backpackers

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

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Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere.

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Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organize your bathroom stuff. Well worth having as it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Road trips in Victoria

And that’s it – three Victoria road trip ideas for you to take your pick from. 

All three routes offer a variety of landscapes, activities, wildlife, and gastronomy to give you a well-rounded Victorian experience. Many places we’ve covered in our itineraries aren’t accessible via public transport, so if you’re looking to strike out from the crowds, here’s your chance. 

So, what are you waiting for? Score yourself a rental deal, grab your road trip gear and hit the road. Just don’t forget the golden rule in Victoria – no hitchhikers!

east coast victoria road trip

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

Alexandria Zboyovski

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10 hidden-gem road trips in Victoria

30 October 2023

Time

Prepare yourself to take the road less travelled as we introduce you to some of Victoria’s hidden-gem road trips.

The Great Ocean Road , Mornington Peninsula , Grampians National Park – Victoria is full of hot-shot road trips that get plenty of love.

But what about the lesser-known spots that are as equally enticing? Turns out, you can embark on a number of road trips that even plenty of Victorians have never heard of.

So, here are 10 hidden-gem road trips to discover on your next driving holiday.

1. See the Silo Art of Western Victoria

Silo art trails have been popping up around Australia as the hot new way to see the countryside and get a culture fix at the same time. This particular one, located in Victoria’s west , is considered the largest outdoor gallery in Australia – stretching over 200 kilometres and linking six small country towns.

In 2016, Canberra artist Guido van Helten painted an anonymous, multi-generational quartet of female and male farmers across four 1939-built GrainCorp silos. With that action, he transformed the spirit of the Wimmera Mallee region, linking Brim with the neighbouring towns of Lascelles, Patchewollock, Rosebery, Rupanyup and Sheep Hill to create the Silo Art Trail.

Rupanyup silo art by Julia Volchkova of Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

Julia Volchkova depicted Rupanyup locals Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann on the silos. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

These days, visitors can tackle the self-guided journey by car. Stop to enjoy the allures of each region, as well as marvelling at the area’s ancient Indigenous roots and its history as one of Australia’s most important grain-growing regions.

Don’t miss: See the silos from above on a scenic flight with Grampians Helicopters . Learn about the faces and places painted by the locally born and raised pilot.

Guido van Helten's silo art in Brim depicts a multi-generational quartet of female and male farmers across four silos. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

Guido van Helten’s Brim mural was the first silo artwork to appear in Victoria. (Image: Visit Victoria/Anne Morely)

2. A detour to Otway

The Great Ocean Road is firmly at the top of most of the best Victorian road trip lists. However, one of the lesser-known towns among the many that populate this route is Otway. Hidden among its delicious produce, waterfalls and hinterland is Cape Otway National Park – a place that’s worth getting in the car for.

Inside you’ll find a rugged coastline, rock formations, beaches, ferny forests and hopefully, Australia’s largest remaining marsupial carnivore, the tiger quoll. The forests, woodlands and coastline of the Otway Ranges are one of the last remaining habitats for this special creature that is on the brink of extinction. Keep your eyes peeled.

Don’t miss: Hopetoun Falls. There’s a platform 20 metres from the car park where you can view the waterfall from the top.

Otway Rainforest

Otway Rainforest has some of the tallest eucalyptus trees in the world

3. Phillip Island to French Island

Find passionate producers, nature-based experiences and those famous surf breaks – could Phillip Island be the ultimate seaside getaway? Yes. Particularly because it comes with access to Victoria’s largest coastal island: French Island.

Car driving on road on French Island

Approximately 70 per cent of French Island is national park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

One-hundred-odd people live on this slice of island paradise. Approximately 70 per cent of its 170 square kilometres has been declared a national park and the remainder is privately-owned freehold land, including some of the most exclusive real estate in Victoria. It sits just north of Phillip Island in Western Port and is connected by daily ferries from Stony Point.

Don’t miss: Thanks to its seclusion, French Island has remained relatively untouched over the years. And the flora and fauna have thrived as a result: find almost 300 species of birds, over 100 types of bush orchids, the endangered long-nosed potoroo, and koalas are free from the chlamydia disease that’s ravaged the population on the mainland.

Sunset over the ocean on French Island

French Island has remained relatively untouched over the years. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. The other Goldfields town

Bendigo ’s reputation isn’t as notorious as Ballarat ‘s, but the other Goldfields town at the heart of Central Victoria (and one-time richest city in the world) has been drawing people from across the globe ever since the 1850s gold rush.

The city now pays homage to a wealth of a different kind as a cultural and foodie hotspot. Wineries, craft brewers and boutique food producers abound (in 2019 Bendigo was designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy) all set among the legacy of grand buildings, historic gardens, avenues and charming homes.

Bendigo Tramways

Bendigo pays homage to a wealth of a different kind as a cultural and foodie hotspot. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Don’t miss: The Bendigo Art Gallery . It’s considered one of the country’s best regional galleries and has carved a niche for itself with blockbuster fashion and design exhibitions including  Marilyn Monroe  and  Marimekko: Design Icon 1951-2018.

Bendigo art gallery

Bendigo Art Gallery is considered one of the country’s best regional galleries. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. The Bellarine Taste Trail

The wide, sun-drenched landscape that stretches along the Bellarine Peninsula is one of the country’s most fertile food bowls, with local producers offering up everything from olives to cool-climate wines .

If you’re feeling peckish, chart a course along the Bellarine Taste Trail to discover a secret gem of a road trip ready to be savoured. There are some seriously decadent foodie institutions that embrace the farm-to-fork philosophy within easy reach from the town’s centre.

Looking at Campbell Point House

Campbell Point House is breathtaking.

White Fisheries sells Port Phillip Bay fish sold on the same day it’s caught. Find Lonsdale Tomato Farm and their authentic farmgate store down an unassuming country road.  Igni was named the 2017 Regional Restaurant of the Year in the Gourmet Traveller’s national restaurant awards and the fire-driven degustation menu is truly jaw-dropping. Wattle Grove Honey produces pure Australian honey and beeswax products from their own beehives.

Don’t miss: A stay at Campbell Point House . For those who have long dreamt of staying in an elegant, 20-million dollar luxury accommodation, this is the only way to do it.

east coast victoria road trip

Words don’t do this view justice.

6. Lake Mountain

Lake Mountain  is Melbourne’s closest and most affordable Alpine Resort. It has 30 kilometres of trails and is the third most visited cross-country site in the world. It’s around two hours’ scenic drive from Melbourne.

The spot caters to ‘snow play’ – cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, etc. There is no downhill skiing or snowboarding. When the snow melts and the crowds swap snow boots for board shorts and bikinis, you’ll find rolling green mountains, itching to be hiked and biked.

Don’t miss: The nearby town of Marysville has been experiencing a marvellous rebirth after the tragic Black Saturday bushfires of 2009. The 20-kilometre drive down from Lake Mountain is one of the most picturesque alpine drives in Australia and full of adventure: the town’s surrounds are a paradise for hikers, foodies and market shoppers.

Lake Mountain

Lake Mountain is Melbourne’s closest and most affordable Alpine Resort

7. Budj Bim National Park

Budj Bim National Park isn’t a place known to most Victorians, but it very well should be. A Gunditjmara name for Mount Eccles, Budj Bim is the long-dormant volcano that once spewed lava up to 50 kilometres toward the sea. It dramatically altered the waterways and wetlands which have remained untouched some 30,000 to 39,000 years later.

Lake Surprise – which has formed in the crater of Mount Eccles – offers a scenic location and playground for an ample dose of recreation. There are spots for camping, walking, mountain biking and 4WDing, plus opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Budj Bim wetlands

Budj Bim dramatically altered the waterways and wetlands which have remained untouched some 30,000 to 39,000 years later.

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has been formally recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is the only Australian World Heritage property listed exclusively for its Aboriginal cultural values. It also features the earliest living example of aquaculture in the world, with a history of eel farming dating back over 6,000 years.

Don’t miss: Budj Bim Tours has been showcasing the important history of the Gunditjmara people since 1999. Take a tour and see remnants of a settled lifestyle that features circular stone dwellings and the remains of Australia’s first and largest freshwater stone aquaculture system.

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape’s cultural tours offer visitors an opportunity to form deeper connections to Country and the history and culture of Budj Bim, no matter what time frame they are working with. Whether you’ve only got a couple of hours or a whole weekend, there’s a tour to suit everybody .  

People walking through Budj Bim

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has been formally recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

8. Pink Lakes of Murray Sunset National Park

Pink Lakes live on the edge of Murray Sunset National Park – a location that is often referred to as Victoria’s own outback. It is pristine, untouched and in a fast-paced world, it offers a chance to get back to nature.

Thanks to the Pink Lakes’ combination of salt-loving algae and high salinity levels the pink hue of the water changes by the hour, depending on the cloud conditions above. Generally, you’ll find that on cloudy days the pinks are at their most striking, and at other times they are more of a fairy-floss hue.

The flora and fauna are varied and abundant at the Pink Lakes. Look out for the red kangaroos, the Murray Lily flower, and if you’re a bird watcher make sure to pack your guidebook as there are loads of colourful and elusive species to discover. For bushwalkers, the area offers some beautiful walks, particularly in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. There are easy walks around Lake Hardy and Lake Becking as well as the longer Kline nature trail.

Don’t miss: Murray Sunset National Park is considered a stargazing haven. Make a night of it and book a campsite to enjoy the evening spectacle.

Pink Lakes

On cloudy days the pinks are at their most striking, and at other times they are more of a fairy-floss hue.

9. The Macedon Ranges

While not as unknown as some of the others on this list, the Macedon Ranges do provide one point of bizarre difference not found anywhere else.

Hanging Rock in Victoria

Macedon Ranges is home to Hanging Rock.

Straws Lane – or Anti-Gravity Hill – is the optical illusion landmark found in few places around the world. The phenomenon is the southernmost Gravity Hill in the world. A place where cars appear to roll upwards, contradicting the laws of gravity. Where the horizon is either obstructed or curved, and the false horizon makes judging the gradient of a slope difficult. As your eyes adjust your perception of the landscape is altered.

Videos online showcase the anti-gravity magic of Straws Lane. To see it for yourself, visit Straws Lane just south of the intersection at Romsey Road.

Don’t miss: Time your journey with a visit to Woodend, famous for its unusual volcanic rock formation (better known as the perpetually spooky Hanging Rock). Pack a picnic to recreate the setting of Joan Lindsay’s novel and Peter Weir’s iconic film.

Fox in the Chamber in Woodend

Woodend is a quirky little town.

10. Black Spur Drive

The ghostly, peaceful driving experience through the tall, slender galleries of Mountain Ash along the Black Spur Drive is unforgettable.

Beginning at Healesville in the south and ending at Narbethong in the north, the snaking and steep Black Spur drive cuts through the lush rainforest landscapes of the Yarra Ranges. It links the Yarra Valley with the mountain areas around Marysville and is famous for its 27-kilometre twists of towering trees and spectacular valley views.

At the base of the Black Spur you’ll find Fernshaw picnic area with rest facilities. Dom Dom in Marysville State Forest has a few basic amenities, too.

Don’t miss: Before you begin, make a beeline for the local wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary . Forget everything you know about zoos – this bushland oasis specialises in native Australian animals, with a longstanding history of breeding programs and preservation.

Black spur drive moody

Black Spur Drive is unforgettable.

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Comments (3)

Excellent report. Some locations have never been to

I would love to receive all the info a out the unique Aussie travels. There are so many roads not travelled.

Absolutely amazing.I have seen most of the places but still get a buzz looking at them again.Thank you.

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east coast victoria road trip

20 incredible Victorian road trips

There’s never been a better time to holiday in your own backyard. So why not set aside a weekend, and venture off on one of these spectacular road trips through The Garden State.

Simone Mitchell

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east coast victoria road trip

Explore spa country

Victoria’s “spa country” got its name from the 141 mineral springs in the area. It’s now a place for glorious rest and relaxation, with more indulgent spa treatments, decadent meals and beautiful bush walks than you can poke a stick at. There are loads of great overnight accommodation options too – our top spots to stay are Daylesford (about an hour and a half from Melbourne) and Hepburn Springs. Pictured here is the Lake House in Daylesford, which is a top spot for a long lunch and an overnight stay.

east coast victoria road trip

Discover beautiful Bright

Bright is a picturesque little town at the base of the Victorian Alps, and it’s a great base if you want to explore this leafy, peaceful area. Spend your time bike riding, sampling local wines and craft beers, kayaking in the river or hiking in the nearby hills. It’s a scenic drive, about 3 hours 40 minutes from Melbourne. If you want to stay over, check out the cute apartments at Centenary Peaks.

east coast victoria road trip

Port Fairy and the Twelve Apostles

Four hours out of Melbourne you’ll find the iconic Twelve Apostles (sorry, but there are actually only eight now… you can thank erosion for that). Keep driving another 1 hour and 20 minutes and you’ll hit Port Fairy, the last stop on the Great Ocean Road . This lovely seaside village is a great spot for an over-nighter. There’s lots of great food – including cracking fish and chips – and you can often spot seals, whales and dolphins from the shore. The Laneway Apartments in Port Fairy make an ideal base.

east coast victoria road trip

Meander along the Murray River

Following the river’s path from the mountains of the Great Dividing Range in northeast Victoria to the desert country and wide open plains of South Australia is a really lovely drive. You can stop in and explore gorgeous river towns along the way (be sure to sample some of Rutherglen’s famous wines). There are even secret beaches and we recommend bedding down in the historic town of Mildura . The Quest hotel is a good budget option.

east coast victoria road trip

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

Rainforests, spectacular beaches and granite mountains… the southernmost tip of Australia has it all. Affectionately known as “The Prom” this area 2 hours and 30 minutes from Melbourne offers fabulous bushwalks, food and plenty of native wildlife. Pictured here is Refuge Cove – definitely worth a dip if you find yourself there in the warmer months. If you're after a romantic bolthole, we've discovered a spa cabin with gobsmacking views.

east coast victoria road trip

Phillip Island

A mere two hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island is where you can see super cute fairy penguins in the wild as they make their daily walk from the sea up the beach. You can also see seals if you’re lucky. The township of Cowes is a very chilled beach town, and is a great spot to crash for the night before you hit the road again. For old-school hotel elegance check out the The Castle Villa By The Sea.

east coast victoria road trip

The Great Alpine Road

Wind your way along Victoria’s Great Alpine Road , from Wangaratta in the northeast across to Metung on the jaw-droppingly beautiful Gippsland Lakes. It will take you through diverse landscapes, from lofty mountain ranges, down plunging valleys, into lush forests, and past rolling vineyards to sparkling coastal waterways. Soak up the views at 5 Knots Metung serviced apartments.

east coast victoria road trip

The Great Ocean Road

This is considered to one of the world’s most scenic drives, with windy roads offering spectacular views of the expansive ocean below. Childers Cove, pictured here, is one of the hidden gems. The Great Ocean Road kicks off near Anglesea and continues to Port Fairy. There are plenty of great little towns to visit along the way. Wye Rive r is one of the lesser known towns on the coast, but is a lovely peaceful spot for an over-nighter. Ready to go? Here's how best to drive the Great Ocean Road . For a wide range of accomm options, check out the BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park.

east coast victoria road trip

Step back in time and visit Bendigo and the goldfields

The heart of Central Victoria and one-time richest city in the world, Bendigo has been attracting people from across the globe since the 1850s gold rush. The dynamic regional centre continues to celebrate its contrasts, setting vibrant arts hubs and buzzing bars and restaurants against grand architecture and a storied history. The Mercure Bendigo Schaller is the ideal place to spend the night.

east coast victoria road trip

The Dandenongs

If you don’t want to spend heaps of time in the car, a trip to the Dandenongs is a great option as it’s only around one hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne. But it feels as if you’re worlds away. There are plenty of great walks and accommodation options and if you have kids on board they’ll love the Puffing Billy Railway. Pictured here are the very tranquil Alfred Nicholas Gardens, a lovely wooded garden park with a boathouse, waterfalls and islands.

Book Puffing Billy tickets here

east coast victoria road trip

The Grampians

Start your Grampians road trip in Halls Gap and wind your way through the majestic mountains and indigenous Australian rock art sites, stopping along the way to enjoy deliciously fresh local produce, award-winning wines and a variety of dining experiences. It’s three hours northwest of Melbourne. Pictured here is the very excellent Royal Mail Hotel at Dunkeld.

east coast victoria road trip

Get acquainted with Gippsland

Be inspired by the space and solitude in Gippsland , the vast eastern corner of Victoria. You’ll be rewarded with unspoilt beaches, pristine lakes and rolling hills of farmland. Along the way visit bustling gourmet waterfront villages, quaint seaside towns and alpine villages and uncover a fascinating rich history and old-fashioned country hospitality. Pick of the local accomm is Ross Farm with its trio of reimagined farm sheds.

east coast victoria road trip

The Mornington Peninsula

Wandering through idyllic coastal and hinterland villages, tasting fine cool-climate wines , eating fantastic food, diving into a thrilling aquatic adventure, discovering galleries, lazing in parks, playing some of Australia’s best golf courses and slipping into natural hot springs – this gorgeous peninsula is just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Melbourne and has so much to offer. If you want to lash out on some special digs, the Jackalope in Merricks North still sets the standard.

east coast victoria road trip

The area inland from The Great Ocean Road has areas of lush rainforest and picturesque bushland that make for a wonderful drive (some people like to come back to Melbourne via this route when they have finished exploring the coastal road). Be sure to check out the glorious Erskine Falls and if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a degustation at Brae (pictured here), considered to be one of Australia’s best restaurants. For a truly unique stay, check out the Cape Otway Lightstation.

east coast victoria road trip

Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula

Geelong (an hour out of Melbourne) has been reinvented as a cultural precinct with excellent places to eat and drink, galleries and boutiques. Just 30 minutes down the road, you’ll find the Bellarine and its lush vineyards, captivating bay views and charming coastal villages. Here you’ll discover delectable providores, world-class golf courses and enchanting beaches. In this picture is the tiny town of Barwon Heads – made famous by the original Seachange TV series. Stay at the schmick R Hotel Geelong which is right on the waterfront.

east coast victoria road trip

Hit the Yarra Valley winery trail

Travel through rolling hills strung with vines, secluded natural valleys set against blue mountain backdrops and lush greenery and pastures, past towering trees and pristine rivers to verdant villages like Marysville and Warburton. Dine in style and marvel at the profundity of fresh local produce at tables in Healesville and Yarra Glen. The Yarra Valley is also a great spot for an early morning hot air balloon ride. If golf is your thing, the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort offers 18 holes in a pristine bush setting.

east coast victoria road trip

Visit Victoria’s wild west

The Mallee area of Victoria is the road less travelled, but that means you’ll be more likely to enjoy some peace and quiet. This region is widely regarded as the agricultural heart of Victoria and it’s a stone’s throw from some of the best rural natural attractions in Australia. You’ll find rustic boutiques, great pubs and the spectacular murals of the Silo Art Trail along the way. There are vast wilderness parks out in the Mallee, so it’s alluring if you’re into native plants, spring flowers and birds. Explore The Mallee can sort you out with a cute cottage called The Roost.

east coast victoria road trip

Hit the surf coast

Only 75km southwest of Melbourne is where you’ll find the Surf Coast, incorporating iconic surf towns like Torquay, Anglesea, Airey’s Inlet and Lorne. Lorne in particular has some great restaurants, so this could be a good spot for an over-nighter. Don’t forget to get a selfie under the iconic sign that marks the start of The Great Ocean Road. The Mantra Lorne can sort you out with rooms starting at well under $200.

east coast victoria road trip

Explore Man from Snowy River country

Victoria’s High Country is a fabulous spot for a road trip – the 4-hour drive from Melbourne goes through some gorgeous little towns and once you get there, it’s a pristine wonderland. Explore nature trails on foot or horseback, and frolic in the snow in winter. Pepper's Marysville is a sleek and chic place to spend a night or two.

east coast victoria road trip

Head to Healesville, a foodie’s paradise

This regional food and wine hub is surrounded by stunning scenery and it’s just an hour and a half from Melbourne. You can also have iconic encounters of the wildlife kind at the Healesville Sanctuary (which makes it a great spot to come if you have international visitors keen to see a kanga or koala). If you’re into wine be sure to hit up Domaine Chandon, Innocent Bystander, Rochford Wines and Coldstream Hills and if gin is more your speed, stop in at Four Pillars distillery (pictured here). Spend the night at the uber cute Old Mechanics, a repurposed workshop now comprising four luxe apartments.

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5 of the best road trips and scenic drives in Victoria

A red car with a bike attached to its rear bumper driving through the heavily rainforested Black Spur

Posted March 27, 2023

Keen to hit the road for some fresh air? These road trips and scenic drives celebrate the diversity of the Victorian landscape, with many not far from Melbourne.

Victoria might be Australia’s second smallest state geographically but that hasn’t stopped it packing some amazing locations into a pint-sized package. Every corner of the state offers something new, from desert landscapes to magical rainforests and spectacular ocean vistas, all of which are easily traversed by car.

Pack your bags and your car safety kit and head out on one of these great Victorian road trips. For peace of mind while travelling on a road trip, ensure you have RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance in place before you depart.

Five of the best road trips in Victoria

If you take Melbourne as the starting point, freeways in all directions have you out in open country in no time, and you’re never more than five or six hours from any part of the state.

Here are five of the best, and most contrasting, drives in Victoria.

The Black Spur

  • Where:  Healesville to Narbethong
  • Distance:  20 kilometres 
  • Time:  Half/full day.
  • Because:  It’s the perfect Sunday drive. 

The Black Spur section of the Maroondah Highway connecting Healesville to the Central Highlands isn’t long, but don’t think you can do it in the blink of an eye. 

On its hairpin turns, you could well be stuck behind a logging truck or Eildon-bound caravan, but that’s to your advantage, as the majesty of the mountain ash forest you’re enveloped in needs to be absorbed slowly and deeply. 

The towering Mountain Ash trees found here are the highest flowering plants on Earth, and are so tightly packed together, the sun barely penetrates through to the forest floor. And the fern gullies are something else. 

This stretch of road has virtually no places to pull in and admire these giants up close. To do that, simply keep going to Marysville, loop back via the Acheron Way to Mount Donna Buang (a sealed but very narrow road) or return to Healesville and then up into Toolangi State Forest. Glory awaits at every turn. 

Don’t miss:  Marysville. It has regrown from the devastation of Black Saturday, and the forest is slowly but surely doing the same.

The Great Ocean Road

  • Where:  Torquay to Peterborough
  • Distance:  202 kilometres 
  • Time:  One to two days.
  • Because:  Show off your state to visitors. 

The popularity of this unique stretch of Victorian coast shows no sign of diminishing; the  Great Ocean Road  is almost as famous as Uluru or the Great Barrier Reef. 

And that’s because the journey itself is the destination. On one side, the Southern Ocean is spectacular no matter what season or time of day. On the other, you’re against sheer cliffs, but only for as long as it takes to round a promontory and dip into holiday havens such as Lorne and Apollo Bay, or pull up at beaches in the likes of Wye River, Skenes Creek or Princetown. And there are those amazing rock formations and coves near Port Campbell. 

But try pulling away from the splendour now and then, for hidden treasures off the main road. 

The region has the best waterfalls in Victoria, so seek out Beauchamp, Triplet or Hopetoun Falls (all near Beech Forest) or Carisbrook (near Apollo Bay). 

When the tide is right, walk out to old anchors embedded in the rocks at Wreck Beach. 

And try the great variety of cheese at Apostle Whey, near Princetown. 

Don’t miss:  A unique stand of Californian redwood trees planted near Beech Forest in the 1930s. Their size and colour are remarkable. 

The Great Alpine Road

  • Where:  Wangaratta to Bairnsdale
  • Distance:  310 kilometres. 
  • Time:  Two to four days.
  • Because:  It’s Victoria’s highest road. 

For a good part of the year most traffic on the  Great Alpine Road  uses only a fraction of it, the goal being the ski resorts of Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. 

For the rest of the time, it’s the ultimate Victorian road trip that needs several days to taste its variety. 

Leaving the Gippsland Lakes behind, the road north from Bairnsdale is a steady climb, the bubbling Tambo River an almost constant presence on your right. 

Omeo is a well-preserved gold town, and you’ll find other touchpoints of Victoria’s golden heritage as you approach Mount Hotham, from where the trail to Mount Feathertop is a great walk for the well-prepared hiker. 

The descent to the Ovens Valley is short but steep and winding. If it’s autumn, the foliage colour in Bright is the reward. 

Don’t ignore the side trip up Mount Buffalo, with its array of wondrous rock formations, trails and panoramic views. 

The final stretch flows through classic eucalypt country to Wangaratta. 

Don’t miss:  Milawa, the gourmet capital of the north-east, for its wine, cheese, honey and mustards.

South Gippsland Highway

  • Where:  Lang Lang to Wilsons Promontory
  • Distance:  140 kilometres. 
  • Time:  One day.
  • Because:  It’s a beautiful route to a beautiful spot. 

Gippsland is rarely less than captivating, and the road to Wilsons Promontory starts off along the prettiest section of national highway in the state. 

At first you roll through gentle green hills dotted with dairy cattle. The major towns of Korumburra and Leongatha are easily negotiated, and if you haven’t brought your picnic lunch , the Koonwarra Store is renowned for food and wine, or sample the lip-smacking Trulli Woodfire Pizzeria’s fare in Meeniyan. 

Turn off the highway here and head south through Fish Creek and Yanakie as the hills gradually give way to low coastal scrub. At every turn you’re anticipating that first view of the haunting peaks of Wilsons Promontory, the southernmost point of the mainland and one of Victoria’s great natural icons. 

Don’t miss:  Fish Creek, for its great array of art and craft outlets.

Calder Highway

  • Where:  Bendigo to Mildura
  • Distance:  400 kilometres. 
  • Time:  One to two days. 
  • Because:  A drive just for the sake of driving. 

You don’t need to go to central Australia to see the Outback. The Mallee is wide, flat and open, just not as red. Along the Calder you’ll find unique traits in each community. 

Inglewood has the intriguing eucalyptus museum, with a working still. Wedderburn’s old general store is a step back in time. At 148 metres above sea level (and just 43 metres above the surrounding town), Mount Wycheproof is the lowest official mountain in Australia. 

Whether in daylight or when the stars are out,  Lake Tyrrell , near Sea Lake, produces mesmerising reflections off its salty surface.

In between, count all the grain silos (and go looking for all the huge  Silo Art Trail  murals) and just enjoy the vastness of this fabulous part of Victoria. 

Don’t miss:  The Bridgewater Bakehouse in Bridgewater on Loddon, where you can find an award-winning  vanilla slice .  

Going on a road trip? Get RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance before you leave →

More local guides

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The best day trips from Melbourne

View of the Great Ocean Road

Ultimate Great Ocean Road itinerary: Torquay to Warrnambool

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Best historical experiences in regional Victoria

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Explore Victoria

An easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary

Everyone loves a Victorian road trip! Planning one motivates you, inspires you to discover new places in Victoria and gives you the opportunity to revisit old favourites in the state. In any season there are epic places to visit in Victoria and there are more emerging all the time. With silo art, foodie towns and activities for families in Victoria is there any reason to holiday anywhere else?

In this post we will focus on a North East Victorian road trip with accommodation recommendations, places to visit in North East Victoria and best of all some gorgeous little secrets you can’t miss on your road trip in Victoria.

An added bonus at the Discovery Parks Nagambie Lakes – The Goulburn Explorer

Facilities at discovery parks – lake hume, vic, places to visit from lake hume to bright, facilities at discovery parks bright, towns to visit on your north east victorian road trip.

After researching possible destinations in North East Victoria , we decided that the most convenient places to stay with family would be at three Discovery Parks. Not only did Discovery Parks offer a bunch of features you won’t find in hotels, but in many ways they far exceeded what was on offer anywhere else for a Victorian road trip.

We decided that we were going to visit Nagambie, Lake Hume and Bright on our 9-day great Victorian road trip, spending 3 nights in each destination to explore the highlights of each area.

Nagambie Lakes

Our first stop on our Victorian road trip was Nagambie Lakes. This amazing little lakeside village is a mecca for anyone who loves the water. You will find people out in abundance boating, fishing and generally enjoying the gorgeous surroundings. If you love Victorian wine then this is also a brilliant place in Victoria for you to visit.

The beautiful Lake Nagambie is perfect in the afternoon sun. Lake Nagambie is brilliant for boating, camping and fishing on your great Victorian road trip

Things to do at Nagambie Lakes

Here you will find the amazing Tahbilk winery and the highly-rated Mitchelton vineyard. Having teenagers on our Victorian road trip, we were able to incorporate visits to wineries and historic sites and have some fun around the park during our stay. Some of the things we did around the area were:

Goulburn Weir  – this is a great place to have lunch, whether it be a short picnic or a full-on BBQ. The weir wall is an amazing site at one of the oldest dams in Victoria, and there is a huge grassed area perfect for picnics, ball games and general relaxation.

Whroo Cemetery and Balaclava goldmines  – both of these attractions are a look back at the history of the area. As Nagambie was once a mining area, people worked hard and died young here in colonial times.

The mining area is visible from elevated viewing platforms, while a reflective walk around the cemetery brings into focus how hard life was for people living here back then.

Nagambie Balaclava mine

Kirwans Bridge  – this can easily be visited as part of the trip to Whroo. Kirwans Bridge Nagambie is 310m long, making it the longest timber bridge in Victoria. Built-in 1890, it’s remarkable that it’s still standing. Our children found it excellent, as they’ve rarely been over a bridge quite like it, especially in Australia.

Besides the above things to do in Nagambie, we also recommend a trip to The Black Caviar statue in Nagambie town, The Avenal cemetery, where you will find Ned Kelly’s father’s grave, and the Victoria Cross memorial at nearby Euroa. There are some fantastic Nagambie wineries nearby including Mitchelton, Fowles and Tahbilk for wine tasting and food.

Where did we stay at Nagambie Lakes?

We had 3 nights planned at our Nagambie accommodation in a deluxe cabin right on the water’s edge. Nagambie Lakes is 138 kilometres north of Melbourne, an ideal place to start any Victorian road trip adventure on a Friday night after work.

Our deluxe cabin on the waterfront had 3 bedrooms, which was just right, so our teenage daughters could have a room each and one for us parents. Separate bedrooms allowed all of us to have our own space, and anyone who travels with teenagers will know that is important to them.

The cabins actually felt like home with couches, flatscreens TVs, a kitchen and air conditioning. After settling in for the first night we were up early the next morning, cooked some egg and bacon toasties and planned our day out exploring the Nagambie region.

Facilities at Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes

We wanted to spend some time in the park because as we said the park had some great facilities on offer. The first thing that impressed us about Nagambie Lakes Discovery Park was the onsite Cafe and being able to grab a coffee there each morning.

For anyone on their Victorian road trip using a tent or caravan, there are some great facilities for you to use at the Nagambie Lakes Discovery Parks.

  • Cabins, caravan and tent sites
  • Swimming pool
  • Tennis court
  • Boat storage
  • Bike pump track

One of the best attractions at Discovery Parks – Nagambie Lakes is the Goulburn Explorer. The Goulburn Explorer is a riverboat with inside seating and a rooftop deck where people staying at the park can book a 2-hour cruise on the Goulburn River.

Nagambie Goulburn

The friendly staff will keep you informed on all the wildlife that calls the area home, while you can also enjoy a drink from the onboard bar and there are some light snacks on offer.

In the future, there will be full catering available for your cruise on the Goulburn Explorer. The Explorer is owned and operated by Discovery Parks and can be booked from the park office.

Read more: Want a full honest review of Discovery Holiday Parks Nagambie Lakes? Read our review here

Nagambie to Wodonga road trip

The trip from Nagambie to Wodonga is around 2 hours if you travel directly, but because we were on our Victorian road trip there were a few special sites we wanted to explore along the way.

The  Northeast Silo art trail  is easily accessible between Nagambie and Lake Hume Discovery Parks. The towns of Goorambat, Devenish, St James and Tungamah make up the trail featuring some mesmerizing artworks on Grain Corp Silos. This is not to be missed on any great Victorian road trip.

 the Goorambat Silo Art masterpiece stands tall against the sky

Goorambat:   There are 2 silo artworks for you to see at Goorambat as well as a mural in the local Uniting Church. There are public toilets located at the side of the Diggers Wife Cafe. Drop into the cafe for a coffee and a slice.

Devenish:  Located on the main street this Victorian silo artwork is unmissable. Toilets are located to the left of the silo art. Drop into the pub for a cold drink and check out the old petrol bowsers for seriously low petrol prices!

St James:  Parking is a little tricky here and if it is busy you need to be careful of people walking on the side of the road to the silos. There is a little pub right over the road with great views where you can sit on the verandah and watch the commotion the silo artworks can create.

Tungamah:  The silo here is off the main street. Public toilets are located there as well as a little milk bar that sells food too. Check out the roses that are everywhere if you visit in spring on your Victorian road trip!

Expert advice: Silo artwork in Victoria is bringing back regional towns. Find some silo art here

Lake Hume, Victoria

Heading towards the border on our Victorian road trip we decided to stay in the border town of Wodonga. Visiting Wodonga, with the amazing weather, we again found accommodation on a lake, Lake Hume.

Again this area located just out of Wodonga is a mecca for people who love water sports. Any given time there will be people fishing, boating and skiing on Lake Hume and in the summer months it is packed with people wanting to cool off.

Sun lounges by the pool at lake hume

Things to see near Lake Hume, VIC

You will find plenty of things to do near Lake Hume. We concentrated our road trip in Victoria activities on the Victorian side of the border. Wodonga also has a great shopping area with supermarkets and department stores for those looking for some retail therapy while staying in Lake Hume.

Lake Hume Weir  – Only a 5-minute drive from the park is the massive Lake Hume dam wall. You can walk across the wall and admire the views of the Murray River, which flows downstream from here. There is a day picnic area, public toilets, and a few heritage items on display.

Rutherglen  – Rutherglen is another town in the middle of the Victorian goldfields and wine region. The town has some outstanding colonial-style buildings still standing.

Visit De Bortoli cellar door, buy a pie from the award-winning Parkers pies and pick up some meat for a BBQ dinner at Rutherglen Butchery. Our kids loved the Rutherglen lolly shop

Wymah Ferry  – This is what I would call a niche attraction in Wodonga and one that is not well known except among locals. One of the helpful staff at Lake Hume told us about the last operating ferry in this region of the Murray River called the Wymah Ferry.

It is free, you can drive your car onto it, cross the river into New South Wales and drive up the road a bit and then come back onto the ferry and back into Victoria.

Colonial period jail in Chiltern

Besides the above attractions in the Lake Hume area, make sure you see the Bonegilla Migrant Experience. If you want a Lake Hume bike ride the High Country Rail Trail starts nearby.

For kids, the nearby Hunchback Mountain bike park provides fun and adventure. The Huon Hill Lookout is on your way to the park and provides breathtaking views of this North East Victoria location.

Explore Victoria:   13 amazing places to experience autumn in Victoria

Where did we stay in Wodonga?

Arriving at Discovery Parks Lake Hume in Victoria (there is also a Discovery Park – Lake Hume on the New South Wales side of the lake), you get the feeling that you have arrived in the tropics with palm trees growing everywhere.

We easily checked in and headed to our superior 2-bedroom poolside cabin that included a deck overlooking the lake and pool area.

Once again, the cabin had all the facilities you would expect at Discovery Parks Lake Hume Tourist Park such as a microwave, couches, dining table, dishwashing liquid and more. You really only have to bring yourselves and your food when you stay in this type of accommodation because everything else is waiting for you. 

Discovery Holiday Parks Lake Hume, VIC is like the Rolls-Royce of holiday parks in Victoria with so much to do onsite we could have stayed there for 3 days and never left! The sun was out, so we were able to use the pool area which also features a spa that can fit up to 8 people.

  • 3 and 2 bedroom cabins
  • Camp kitchens
  • Caravan and tent sites
  • Dog washing area
  • Jumping pillow

This Lake Hume accommodation hires out bikes and kayaks, so  we grabbed 2 kayaks  and hit Lake Hume for a paddle around. With the banks of the Hume Weir so close to your accommodation, Lake Hume fishing is popular for people staying at the park.

Mum and daughter having fun with kayaks on lake Hume

One of our favourite features was the communal rotunda on the shores of Lake Hume just near our cabin. It was a mix of a camp kitchen and a social area featuring inside couches, a fireplace, an oven, and dishwashing facilities, while just outside our door were BBQs and picnic tables.

One thing that makes holiday parks easy is washing facilities. Unlike hotels where you pay a fortune for clothes to be laundered, Discovery Parks makes it easy with washing machines and dryers that can be used for a few dollars.  Anyone with teenagers  knows that they go through clothes pretty quickly!

Lake Hume to Bright road trip

Lake Hume and Bright Discovery Parks are only around 100 kilometers apart. Explorers like us wanted to see more places in Victoria along the way, so our first stop was at Yackandandah, another beautiful heritage town in the northeast of Victoria.

There are a few amazing little and big towns to visit on your way to Bright. You will find that they are stops in themselves and you can find some brilliant things to do in these towns in Victoria.

Yackandandah: There are plenty of things to do in Yackandandah if you love food! There is a brilliant pub, a magnificent bakery and a couple of specialty shops on the main street where you can stock up on some amazing local food for your Victorian road trip.

Read more: Want a full honest review of Discovery Holiday Parks Bright? Read our review here

Woolshed Waterfalls: When headed towards Beechworth stop at Woolshed Waterfalls, it is a must before entering the town.

Beechworth: Beechworth has a long history of association with Ned Kelly and gold. The main street is lined with heritage buildings and museums, while the popular  Billson’s brewery  is a must-stop for its tasty cordials, pre-mixed vodkas and more. Billson’s was a great stop for our teenagers as you could try any of their famous cordials at the tasting bar, then wander the cellar cave before watching them make and package the products.

From here we headed for Bright and our last 3 nights with Discovery Parks.

Bright, Victoria

Arriving at Discovery Parks Bright you are immediately surrounded by trees in an amazing valley about 10 kilometres from Bright town center. The sound of the nearby Ovens River was both relaxing and welcoming as we pulled up to our 3-bedroom cabin.

The office, pool and playground area at Bright Discovery Park

The area of the park is so peaceful, with loads of birds and shady trees shedding their flowers for Summer when we were there. Just like Nagambie and Lake Hume, our cabin in Bright had all the essentials like milk and coffee for your first cuppa of the morning and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.  

Much like most hotels, it included soap, shampoo & conditioner, and body wash which we used during ou r stay in Bright . One modern convenience that the Bright cabin had over the rest was USB sockets on some power points, which were handy for charging our gear.

  All the top things to see near Bright

For anyone who loves nature, relaxation and the sounds of nature then there are so many things to do in Bright . If you have not visited Bright then this should be on your Victorian road trip itinerary.

Mount Buffalo National Park  – You can get to this popular Victorian National Park via a windy scenic road that has waterfalls and lookouts over the mountains and valleys of the area. The  Mount Buffalo Chalet  from 1910 is worth checking out and still draws visitors who appreciate the grandeur of this old building. The car park has some amazing lookouts with picnic facilities and walking trails that lead off to Alpine lakes and more

Bogong Village  – is another 50 kilometres from the park via the town of Mount Beauty and is on the way to Falls Creek. Bogong Village is owned by the electrical company AGL which operates a hydroelectric power station nearby. Outside of the snow season, the town appears deserted except for day-trippers and bushwalkers enjoying the scenic alpine lake and Alpine National Park

Bright Brewery  – Not far from Discovery Parks Bright is the beer capital of the Victorian Northeast! This big shiny new establishment brews traditional and seasonal beers to suit most tastes. There’s everything from Draught beers to concoctions like a Mandarin Milkshake beer! With seating both indoors and out, this is a popular destination for a bite to eat and drink. We recommend getting a tasting paddle that gives you a small sample of a range of their more interesting beers!

6 empty small glasses at Bright Brewery in Victoria Australia

Bike Trails  – Bright has become the biking capital of Victoria with its Mystic Mountain bike park and the Murray to Mountains rail trail. Some popular trails are the Bright to Wandiligong and the Bright to Porpunkah. These are pretty good family-friendly rides of around 6 kilometres each way.

Plan your trip to Bright with ease: All the best things to do in Bright

Where did we stay in Bright

In addition, you can find a small water park in Bright to keep cool during the warmer weather. Nearby rivers are also popular for people who like panning for gold or metal detectors. The surrounding towns of Harrietville and Myrtleford are worth visiting, and a trip to the top of Mount Hotham is certainly an experience.

Wineries like Ringer Reef serve a mean cheese platter and Nightingale Brothers Alpine Produce sell all kinds of jams, spreads, apple juices, ciders, and local artisanal produce. Yum!

Discovery Parks Bright located on the Great Alpine Road has several cool features, such as a purpose-built ramp that leads down into the Ovens River for swimming on a hot day.

  • 2 and 3-bedroom cabins
  • Herb garden
  • Communal kitchens
  • River access
  • Bike trails
  • Guest laundry

The largest common area in the middle of the park has a herb garden, fire pit, stove, tv, and a communal fridge for campers. The fridge came in handy for keeping drinks cold while cooking and eating in the area. The park often brings in bands on the weekends to perform in this area of the park, which was something we had never seen before at any holiday park.

Camp kitchen with oven, hotplate, fridge, fan and tv at Bright

On the weekend at Bright, they open the Coffee Burgh. This is their own coffee stand with a quality barista to make your coffee dreams come true, and kickstart your day with everything from a latte to fancy chai! For anyone who loves travelling with dogs, the park has a dog washing facility which shows the length Discovery Parks goes to cater for its guests.

More Victorian road trip inspiration: Discover amazing towns on the Great Alpine Road

Want to add another Victorian destination to your Victorian road trip itinerary?

If you are looking to add another North East Victorian town to your Victorian road trip itinerary Echuca is another wonderful place to add to your Victorian staycation.

Our 9 days came and went so fast that we left each location wishing for more time! An extended Victorian staycation with Discovery Holiday Parks could also include  stops at the Melbourne , Geelong and Warrnambool Parks. A road trip between these locations would include Torquay, The Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay, The Surf Coast, Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell and Port Fairy.

Seeing the sites and relaxing at each Discovery Park location was a Victorian road trip we’ll never forget. Staying with Discovery Parks made our great Victorian road trip easier and less expensive because of their facilities and the activities available to us as a family with teenagers!

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More travel inspiration for your Victorian road trip

21 best places to visit in Victoria
11 fun filled day trips from Melbourne for families
Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

evbiorebecca

Bec Wyld is the creative force behind the words, blending Explore Victora with a touch of wanderlust. With an innate ability to tell a story that resonates, Bec invites readers on a journey through her home of Victoria Australia. Beyond the keyboard, Bec works in Aged Care helping people to live a better life. With a pen in one hand and on the road in front Bec is on a quest to inspire those looking to explore Victoria through words, images and lifestyle

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10-day road trip through regional Victoria

Wind along the famous Great Ocean Road, get up high in the Grampians and discover Victoria’s gold-rush towns on this extraordinary 10-day loop.  

By Sue Gough Henly

Despite its small size, the state of  Victoria  delivers a spectacular diversity of landscapes from the Southern Ocean to the sandstone escarpments of the  Grampians National Park . Along the way, you'll learn about Aboriginal culture, pan for gold, see wildlife and wilderness, enjoy local food and wine, and soak in some of Australia’s finest thermal mineral springs.

What to expect

  • Enjoy one of the world's greatest coastal drives along the Great Ocean Road
  • Discover Aboriginal culture amid the sandstone ridges of the Grampians National Park
  • Immerse yourself in the 1850s gold rush era at Sovereign Hill living museum
  • Time: 10 days
  • Distance: 1,200 kilometres (746 miles)
  • Transport: car
  • Nearest major city: Melbourne

10-day road trip through regional Victoria

Day 1: Melbourne to the Bellarine Peninsula

Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Bellarine Peninsula, VIC © Roberto Seba

Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria © Roberto Seba

Just a 30-minute drive south of Melbourne , start your adventure with a safari at the  Werribee Open Range zoo  to see rhinoceros, giraffes, zebras and antelopes grazing on the grassy plains. You'll come face-to-face with gorillas, a pride of lions, monkeys and cheetahs on the Pula Reserve Walking Trail.

Continue for 50 minutes to the bayside city of Geelong. Stop for lunch in the funky surrounds of the  Little Creatures Brewery  or enjoy the innovative tasting menu at  Igni . Explore the nearby Bellarine Peninsula and enjoy a glass of wine at  Jack Rabbit Vineyard , with its splendid views of Port Phillip Bay, and wander around the Victorian-era seaside town of Queenscliff.

Dine this evening onboard The Q Train , a travelling restaurant that departs from the historic Drysdale Train Station. Move through a degustation of exquisite local produce and picturesque Bellarine Peninsula views.

Tonight, spend the night about 15 minutes away in Point Lonsdale at luxurious Lon Retreat & Spa . For a budget-friendly option, book in at Big4 Beacon Resort .

Day 2: Bellarine Peninsula to Lorne

Torquay Beach, VIC © Visit Victoria

Torquay Beach, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Make an early start to Torquay, where you can choose between a relaxed breakfast At The Heads and a thrilling surfing class .

Torquay is the official start of the Great Ocean Road; drive beneath the iconic memorial archway at Eastern View and continue driving about 15 minutes to the pretty coastal town of Lorne. Serious foodies will want to book lunch at  Movida Lorne , an outpost of the iconic Melbourne tapas restaurant. For a more casual affair, take a seat at  Swing Bridge Café . Ocean lovers should take a quick dip at nearby Lorne Beach. 

Families will love a daredevil zip-line through the tree canopy at Lorne Livewire Park . Alternatively, visit the 30-metre (98-foot) tall Erskine Falls in the surrounding rainforest. Enjoy superb contemporary fare at  Brae , a 30-minute drive into the hinterland (book well in advance to avoid disappointment). Stay overnight in one of Brae's luxury suites or at the oceanfront  Cumberland Lorne Resort .

Day 3: Lorne to Cape Otway

Great Ocean Eco Lodge, Cape Otway, VIC © Mark Watson

Great Ocean Eco Lodge, Cape Otway, Victoria © Mark Watson

Drive the curviest and most spectacular stretch of the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay, roughly a one-hour drive. Along the way, stop at Kennett River to see the koalas and parrots along a quiet side road.

When you start to feel hungry, have a Mediterranean-inspired lunch with a stunning bird's-eye view of the ocean at  Chris's Beacon Point Restaurant  (hint: for more casual fare, wait a bit longer to stop for lunch and a tasting paddle at the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse ). Full up on delicious cuisine, head inland to taste craft beers at the  Forrest Brewing Company  and enjoy a dusk  platypus paddle  at Lake Elizabeth.

Drive an hour through the Otway National Park rainforest and visit the  Cape Otway Lightstation , the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. After a busy day, stay at the  Great Ocean Eco Lodge  to see Australian animals in the wild and help with rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife. If time permits, see glow worms on an evening walk at nearby  Maits Rest .

Day 4: Cape Otway to Port Fairy

Helicopter over the 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC © Visit Victoria

Helicopter over the 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Visit Victoria

indigenous-symbol

If you're lucky, you might spot blue whales or orcas from Logans Beach's viewing platform.

Do a treetop walk or zip-line adventure in the heart of the rainforest at  Otway Fly Treetop Adventures . Enjoy a steak sandwich with a local Crowes Nest Steam Train brew at the Otway Central Tavern and discover other local gourmet products on the  Otway Harvest Trail  before hopping in the car for an hour drive to the 12 Apostles . Here, you can soak up a spectacular panoramic view of Victoria's famous limestone stacks on a  helicopter flight  and explore Loch Ard Gorge, the Grotto, the Arch and London Bridge from the ground. If you're feeling energetic, walk the later part of the  Great Ocean Walk , which ends at the 12 Apostles.

Drive west for an hour to Warrnambool to visit  Flagstaff Hill , a fascinating historical village showcasing life in a 19th century seaport. Between May and October, you can see southern right whales here from the viewing platform at Logans Beach. Finish your day in the nearby historic fishing township of Port Fairy, a 40-minute drive away. Enjoy dinner at one of the village's stand-out restaurants – Conlan’s Wine Store and Coffin Sally both fit the bill.

Wind down for a deluxe stay at  Drift House .

Day 5: Port Fairy to Halls Gap

Indigenous tour at Tower Hill © Rob Blackburn 2015

Tower Hill Nature Reserve, Victoria © Rob Blackburn 2015

Visit the  Tower Hill Nature Reserve , an enormous volcanic crater to the east of Port Fairy where it's easy to see koalas, kangaroos, emus and native birds. The beautiful visitor centre is managed by the Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative, which offers guided walks explaining the local Aboriginal culture and bush tucker.

Drive an hour north through the rolling farmland of the Western Districts to enjoy an informal meal at the  Parker Street Project  or an inspired tasting menu in the dining room of  The Royal Mail Hotel  in Dunkeld. Drive 45 minutes north to the  Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre  in the Grampians National Park . Watch a video of the Gariwerd creation story and enjoy didgeridoo workshops, bush food tasting, boomerang painting and throwing lessons.

Next, gain a new perspective from the park’s well-known lookouts – Boroka , Reed and the Balconies – all set with stunning views over the Mount William and Wonderland Ranges.

Stay in the stylish DULC cabins near Halls Gap.

Day 6: Halls Gap to Ballarat

Seppelt, Great Western, VIC © Visit Victoria

Seppelt, Great Western, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Your final morning in the Grampians should include exploring the area's Aboriginal rock art sites and hiking trails . Enjoy an Italian-inspired lunch at The Views . Drive 30 minutes east to explore some of the region's historic wineries, such as  Seppelt Great Western,  famous for its sparkling wines and labyrinthine cellars dug by gold miners, and  Best's Great Western , one of Australia’s oldest family-owned wineries, which specialises in old vine shiraz. Pause for lunch at  Salingers Café ; be sure to check out the beehive contained within the walls.

Learn about the gold rush from a different perspective in Ararat, the only town in Australia founded by Chinese miners. At the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, learn how Chinese miners travelling overland from Robe in South Australia discovered the Canton Lead, one of the world's richest shallow alluvial goldfields.

Drive an hour east to Ballarat and stop for a sip of artisan gin at Kilderkin Distillery  or craft beer at Hop Temple . Stay in Victorian splendour at the Provincial Hotel  and have dinner at Lola .

east coast victoria road trip

3 days in the Grampians

Day 7: Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, VIC © Visit Victoria

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Grab a locally roasted coffee at family-run Kittelty’s  before spending the day at  Sovereign Hill , a living museum goldfields town that re-creates Ballarat's first 10 years after the 1851 discovery of gold, when thousands of international adventurers came in search of fortune. It's set on 10 hectares (25 acres) of an original mining site, and costumed characters bring the shops, hotels, theatre, school, factories, gold diggings and underground mines to life. Take an underground mine tour, pan for real gold, watch a $150,000 gold pour, visit the gold museum, ride in a horse-drawn carriage and use pen and ink in the one-room schoolhouse.

In the evening, watch Sovereign Hill's multimillion-dollar sound-and-light show, Blood on the Southern Cross, which tells the dramatic story of the 1854 Eureka Rebellion, in which miners rebelled against unfair government gold taxes and swore allegiance to the Southern Cross flag.

Day 8: Ballarat to Hepburn Springs

Koalas, Ballarat Wildlife Park, VIC © Ballarat Wildlife Park

Koalas, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Victoria © Ballarat Wildlife Park

Explore the gracious city of Ballarat, built on the riches of the world's largest alluvial gold deposit. Visit the  Art Gallery of Ballarat  with one of the most comprehensive collections of Australian paintings in the nation. 

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the  Ballarat Wildlife Park  to see native Australian animals and reptiles in the natural bush or wander amid the mature trees of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens beside Lake Wendouree. Visit  Creswick Woollen Mills , the last coloured woollen spinning mill in Australia, where you can feed alpacas, see the interactive exhibit and shop for fine natural materials. If you have kids, visit  Kryal Castle , Australia's only medieval adventure park. Drive 30 minutes to Hepburn Springs to soak in mineral springs at the historic  Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa  before staying at the  Peppers Springs Mineral Springs Hotel .

Day 9: Hepburn Springs to Daylesford

Lake House, Daylesford, VIC © Visit Victoria

Lake House, Daylesford, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Just 10 minutes down the road, enjoy a class with some of the finest chefs in Australia at the Lake House  cooking school , complete with baguette or sit-down lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the region following the  Daylesford Macedon Produce Trail  to find gourmet products and meet producers. Go shopping in Daylesford , wander through the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens (home to delicious restaurant Wombat Hill House ) and visit the  Convent Gallery , which showcases the work of local artists and artisans. Enjoy a massage at the  Salus Spa , perched in a treetop stilt house above Lake Daylesford, before a sublime meal at the trailblazing  Lake House restaurant  before you tuck in for the night at the  Lake House hotel , one of the  Luxury Lodges of Australia.

Day 10: Daylesford to Melbourne

Red Beard Bakery, Trentham, VIC © Visit Victoria

Red Beard Bakery, Trentham, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Drive 20 minutes east to the pretty township of Trentham to visit Trentham Falls, the longest single drop waterfall in Victoria, plunging 32 metres (105 feet) over basalt columns. Explore the boutiques and enjoy a coffee and pastry at the  Red Beard Bakery , or take a sourdough bread making class before having lunch at the nearby café, La Trattoria, in the historic Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm . Explore the farm's historic stone buildings, which overlook the lavender fields that supply the raw materials for the farm-made lotions and creams.

Drive an hour to Mount Macedon to visit exquisite private gardens at  Forest Glade  and Tieve Tara, or climb nearby  Hanging Rock , a 105-metre (344-foot) tall, steep-sided ancient volcano, which has eroded to create bizarre rock formations. You'll see lots of Australian birds, and maybe an echidna or wallaby, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding farmland from the top. Stop in at Curly Flat Winery to taste some of the region's best pinot noir before you drive an hour back to Melbourne.

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Lake House, Daylesford, Victoria © Lake House

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7 best road trips victoria has to offer.

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Being a classic intrepid kiwi, Arden loves to show people the beauty of nature, culture and adventure that the world has to offer. While finishing off her Masters in Environment and International Development, she likes to explore unique or unspoiled destinations like Central Asia, East Timor or local NZ & Aussie tracks.

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Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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For a small state, Victoria is crammed with some mighty fine road trips. From lunar landscapes to endless coastal cruises, forest bathing, and the alpine, we’ve handpicked the seven best road trips around Victoria for your cruising pleasure! Time to hit the road!

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Whether you’re after unspoilt beaches, historic towns, native wildlife, or to indulge in some scrumptious local food and wine, there’s a road trip in Victoria for you! Call your mates, pack the car, and start your engine – we’re going on a road trip!

Also Read:  10 Super Handy Car Accessories for Your Summer Road Trip

  • Top 10 Road Trips in Queensland
  • New England High Country Best Road Trips

Coastal Road Trips Victoria

1. great ocean road extended to south australia.

Distance:  Around 600km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Mount Gambier Highlights:  12 Apostles, Great Otway National Park, Loch Arch Gorge, Lower Glenelg National Park, Mount Gambier

Probably one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the Great Ocean Road never gets old. This is definitely the Victorian road trip for you if you can’t get enough of the rugged coast.

Great ocean road, What I’ve Learnt From 6 Months of Full Time #Vanlife, shot by Elisha Donkin, outback, australia, road trip, lap, van, vanlife

@elishadonkin

Starting from Melbourne, the route has endless stop-off points and views. But instead of doing the classic trip to the Twelve Apostles and then returning to Melbourne, you take your time and go a little further.

Start off at a cute coastal town to stay the night – I suggest Lorne or Apollo Bay. If you’ve got a surfboard then it’s time to hit the waves! This is the best way to avoid the crowds and get the real Great Ocean Road experience.

Before hitting the (in)famous Twelve Apostles, take a break at the often by-passed, Great Otways National Park and check out the beautiful waterfalls and forests. For some free camping , pitch your tent at the Beauchamp Falls campground.

Post-Apostles, don’t miss all the other incredible rock formations the Great Ocean Road has to offer, including The Razorback, Loch Ard Gorge, The Arch, and London Bridge.

east coast victoria road trip

Loch Ard Gorge | @lauraalycebell

But why stop there? All the way to South Australia there are some incredible coastlines and beaches to hit up. Just make sure to stop in Warrnambool, as it’s the last major city you’ll see for a while. Don’t forget a stop in Port Fairy for quaint and cosy coastal vibes.

Along the route, feel like a kid again and visit the Giant Yumbuk Slide – is there a better way to enter a beach?! Don’t reckon.

Check out some less travelled areas such as Cape Bridgewater’s petrified forest , Discovery Bay Coastal Park, and Lower Glenelg National Park, which is cosied right up next to the South Australian border.

Read more:  Remember to leave no trace

For a change of scenery, the Princess Margaret Rose Cave is a stunning example of a limestone cave, and it’s definitely worth popping over the border to Mount Gambier to dive into the sinkholes. Check out the Little Blue Sinkhole, Ewens Ponds , and Kilsby’s sinkhole to give your trip an immersive finale.

east coast victoria road trip

@jackjbrookes

Great Ocean Road Key Stops

Melbourne – Ocean Grove – Torquay – Lorne – Apollo Bay – Great Otway National Park – Wreck Beach – Gibson Steps – Twelve Apostles – The Razorback – Loch Arch Gorge – The Arch – London Bridge – Bay of Martyrs – Mepunga – Warrnambool – Port Fairy – The Giant Yambuk Slide – Portland – Cape Bridgewater Petrified Forest – Discovery Bay Coastal Park – Lower Glenelg National Park – Princess Margaret Rose Cave – Mount Gambier

How To Get There

2. The Gippsland Coast

Distance:  Over 1000km Start point: Melbourne End point: Mallacoota Highlights:  Wilsons Prom, Tarra Bulga National Park, Briagolong Blue Pools, Golden Beach, Lakes National Park

If you’ve done the Great Ocean Road to death, but aren’t over coastal road trips, try the eastern side of Victoria and head towards Gippsland .

east coast victoria road trip

Luminaire Pictures Stills

If you have the time, start by making the long dip into Wilsons Promontory National Park , it’s definitely worth the drive and it’s an incredible gateway into Gippsland.

Before the Prom, check out Eagles Nest near Inverloch, this beach is perfect for surfing and snorkelling , with jungle-island vibes and rock pools. Once in the Prom, some highlights include Whisky Beach, the Mt Oberon hike, or even the three day Southern Circuit to reach the southernmost point of mainland Australia.

Leaving Wilsons Prom, head to Tarra Bulga National Park for some serious Jurassic Park vibes. Although this road trip offers a lot of stunning coastal views, stay inland for a little and head up to Avon-Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve to check out the Channels walk for a sweet as dip in the river-churned red rock. This spot is pretty off-the-beaten-track, so I wouldn’t miss it if you like to avoid the crowds.

For another freshwater dip, head to the Blue Pools in Briagolong , which offers some great rock jumps, free camping, and a rope swing!

6 Epic Free Campsites Near Melbourne, Pat corden, Blue Pools 1, wild swimming, victoria

Laxin’ at the Blue Pools | @patcorden

After all that, make your way down to Golden Beach (stopping via Sale if you need supplies), for some serious sand time and the beginning of your time at Ninety Mile Beach.

From here, if you’ve got the time, take a side trip to Gippsland Lake Coastal Park and camp overnight, otherwise, start heading towards the Greater Lakes Entrance area. If you can, get a boat to take you out to the Lakes National Park for some stellar secluded beaches, or take the ferry to Raymond Island for endless koala time – it’s not a road trip without some native Australian animals!

The Snowy River is another key destination on the Gippsland road trip. Leave the coast (just for a second!) and head inland from the north via Deddick Valley. Check out Little River Junction campground for a serene spot to stay!

Exploring the Wilderness of Gippsland, Matt Horspol, Croajingolong National Park, drone, kayak

Croajingalong National Park | @etchd

Make your way back to the coast, to Gipsy Point and Mallacoota, via Croajingolong National Park. This area really makes you feel like you’re the only person on the planet. Some key walks in this greater area include the Thurra River Dunes Walk and the Genoa Peak hike – give your legs a stretch and check them out!

7 Best Victoria Road Trips, Arden Haar, The Channels, Gippsland, swimming hole, river, woman

Exploring The Channels in Gippsland | @_ardenhaar

Gippsland Coast Key Stops

Melbourne – Eagle’s Nest – Wilson’s Promontory National Park- Tarra Bulga National Park – Avon Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve – Blue Pool Briagolong – Sale – Giffard – (Drive via Shoreline Drive) – Golden Beach – (side trip up to Gippsland Lake Coastal Park) then back around – Hollands Landing – Paynesville (side trip to Raymond Island) to Metung – Lake Tyers Beach – Nowa Nowa – Snowy River National Park from Deddick Valley – Goongerah – Cann River – Thurra River Dunes Walk – Genoa Peak Hike – Gipsy Point – Mallacoota

Mountain Road Trips Victoria

3. the grampians.

Distance: 200km Start point:  Horsham End point: Dunkeld Highlights: Wudjub-Guyan / Hollow Mountain, Halls Gap, Venus Baths, The Pinnacle

Starting from Horsham, take a roadie through the Grampians . Since this is a designated Grampians road trip, do it right and start it from the top. Most people coming from Melbourne will just head straight to Halls Gap, visit a couple of sights in the area and then head back to the city.

While Halls Gap is an incredible little town and definitely worth the visit, driving from the top of the Grampians, from Hollow Mountain, and heading down towards Dunkeld, really shows what the area has to offer.

This Victoria road trip is ideal for (but not exclusively so) hiking or climbing enthusiasts and is more of a hike-and-drive guide. If you can, take your time, drive slowly, camp, and visit all the lookouts and hikes the road offers you.

7 Best Victoria Road Trips, Arden Haar, Grampians, Gariwerd, mountain, car, road, drive

Gariwerd / Grampians National Park is home to unique rock formations and cultural history | @_ardenhaar

Start with the Wudjub-Guyan/Hollow Mountain hike, which is probably the closest you’ll come to Utah while in Australia. From here, take the beautiful Roses Gap Road, slowly heading to Halls Gap while stopping at the different waterfalls (especially Fish Falls) and lookouts on the way. If you can, check out Boroka Lookout at sunrise!

From Halls Gap, there are many different hikes and destinations to choose from that are close by, but some of our favourites include Mt Rosea ,  The Pinnacle , and the Venus Baths.

There’s also the classic Balconies Lookout which is a great spot to watch the sunset. If you don’t want to sleep in Halls Gap, opt for the free and epic Plantation Campground a little further up.

Once you’re done with Halls Gap, head down to Duwil /Mt William and climb the highest peak in Gariwerd /Grampians National Park – you can actually drive most of the way up, and then the summit is only 3.5km return. Hit Mad-Dadjug/Mt Abrupt, and then Wurgarri/Mt Sturgeon for some iconic peak walks.

Dunkeld is the perfect, relaxed town to end your Grampians road trip. Stay the night, check out the arboretum in the evening for a sunset view of Mad-Dadjug, and then have breakfast at the local Koopmans Cafe , which showcases artists in an industrial setting.

Grampians Key Stops

Horsham – Hollow Mountain – Beehive Falls – Wartook – MacKenzie Falls – Boroka Lookout – Halls Gap – Fish Falls – Halls Gap (side trips depending on hike choice) – Duwil/Mt William- Mad-Dadjug/Mt Abrupt – Wurgarri/Mt Sturgeon – Dunkeld

4. Lake Eildon and Mount Buller

Distance:  700km Start point: Melbourne End point: Melbourne Highlights: Cathedral Range State Park, Lake Eildon, Howqua, Mount Buller

This route is like a ‘getting out to nature’ starter pack – forests, mountains, a lake, and camping. Start the scenic way and drive via Warburton , heading towards Taggerty.

If you’re driving slowly, Taggerty is a wicked place to stop for a hike in the Cathedral Range State Park  and the Farmyard is a free hike-in campground.

The Best Day Trips From Melbourne, Arden Haar, Sugarloaf Peak, view, mountains

Sugarloaf Peak | @_ardenhaar

From there head to Lake Eildon for camping, cycling , and hiking galore! Although there are a range of places to base yourself (take your pick!), if you’re crunched for time, opt to stay in the beautiful Jerusalem Creek Campground and then head towards Jamieson.

If you’re not on a time limit, then stay at multiple campsites in the Lake Eildon area, take in the scenery and do some hikes, like the Blowhard Summit, which overlooks the lake.

To get to Mount Buller, make sure you go via Howqua ( Sheepyard Flat is a free campground), Mansfield, and Merrijig for some legendary mountain views while on the road. Either stop by one of these towns for a break, or head straight to Mount Buller and soak in as much mountain scenery as possible.

Take on the Mt Stirling summit hike, or hike up to one of the alpine cabins such as Craig’s Hut. After Mount Buller, take a drive to the lesser-known Mount Samaria State Park (or extend the trip and follow the High Country road trip, heading up to Woolshed Falls), and hike the Mount Samaria summit loop.

From Mount Samaria, head back via Barjarg and Maindample for some more country views, and take the iconic Maroondah Highway back.

Lake Eildon & Mount Buller Key Stops

Warburton – Taggerty – Eildon – Jamieson- Howqua – Mansfield/Merrijig – Mount Buller – Mount Samaria State Park – Barjarg – Maindample – Maroondah Highway

5. High Country

Distance: 550km Start point:  Healsville End point:  Mt Hotham Highlights:  Mt Buffalo, Bright, Alpine National Park, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham

Getting out to Victoria’s High Country can be a bit of a mission since there isn’t a direct route from the city, but the journey is totally worth your while. The High Country road trip is epic in both summer and winter, but it depends what you’re after!

Start from Healesville and head past Toolangi for a good combination of country and forest scenery. One of the advantages of this route is that there are a lot of enchanting lookouts that you can easily drive to – the perfect place for a bit of stop, revive, survive on a Victoria road trip.

Check out the Mount Wombat Lookout and then, after a decent drive, go for a dip at Woolshed Falls . After Woolshed, drive on the beautiful alpine road towards Mount Buffalo National Park, making the most of all the drivable lookouts on the way, particularly, Murmungee Lookout and Mount Stanley Lookout.

Once in Mount Buffalo greater area or Bright , you have an endless supply of outdoor adventures awaiting. Summit Victoria’s highest peak, Mount Bogong or take a dip at Ladies’ Bath Falls . You can even get off the beaten track at Mt McLeod . If you have a 4WD , there are plenty of epic 4WD routes you can take in Mount Buffalo and Alpine National Park.

The 7 Best Victoria Road Trips, photo by @explore_with_ab/, drone shot, road, forest, mountains, car, drive

High Country offers epic 4WD routes | @explore_with_ab

Continue taking in the alpine views, and head to Falls Creek and Mt Hotham . On the way, you could even mission it up to Johnston’s Hut or do the Hotham Huts Walk . It’s the High Country, you can go anywhere as long as it’s up!

You can combine this Victoria road trip with number two on the list if you’re heading back to Melbourne. Go via Falls Creek and then head straight to Mallacoota to take the Gippsland route in reverse.

High Country Key Stops

Healesville – Toolangi and/or Kinglake – Mount Wombat Garden Range – Mount Wombat Lookout – Woolshed Falls – Murmungee Lookout – Mount Stanley lookout – Mount Buffalo National Park – Alpine National Park – Falls Creek – Hotham Heights

Country Road Trips Victoria

6. victoria’s outback.

Distance:  Over 1000km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Mildura Highlights:  Little Desert National Park, the pink lakes, Big Desert Wilderness Park, Murray River, Mungo National Park

If you’re looking for an out-there experience for Victoria, then the road trip from Melbourne to Mildura is the trip for you. Launching from Natimuk, head to Little Desert National Park , and stop off at the Pink Lake in Dimboola.

Next, make your way up to its big brother, via Lake Hindmarsh (another, even bigger pink lake?!) to Big Desert Wilderness Park . This part of northeast Victoria is wild, cruise through and enjoy feeling like you’re on another planet.

Desert Blooms // Little Desert National Park (VIC), Isobel Campbell, Heath-myrtle (Micromyrtus ciliata), red, bush

Time your visit with spring to see the desert wildflowers | @isobelccampbell

From here, drive to Lake Tyrrell , which is a popular spot for stargazing, photography and camping – and another pink lake! If you have a 4WD, you can drive to Lake Tyrrell via the Milmed Rock Track , which lets you drive through Big Desert Wilderness Park.

When driving in Big Desert, remember that this area is very remote, so be prepared, and check with the ranger about road accessibility and conditions.

Read more:  Outback Driving Survival Guide

From Lake Tyrrell, head up to Murray-Sunset National Park to see some of the finest sunsets Victoria has to offer. Stay here for as long as you like, and pretend you never have to return to a city again!

From here, stay within the same colour-hue theme, hit Red Cliffs (the town with the 70m high red cliffs), before driving into Mildura.

Mildura is where SA, VIC, and NSW borders meet , and it’s blessed with intact Aboriginal cultural landscapes and emus! It’s also located right on the Murray River, and offers an array of activities such as the paddle steamer , houseboat trips, waterskiing, or kayaking .

If you just want to chill, find a spot on the river banks where you can sit and enjoy the unique views. Mildura has a lot more to offer than you’d expect. It’s one of Australia’s regional art hubs, with some wineries nearby to help you along. Check out Trentham Estate Winery .

How To Take Photos in Mungo National Park, Conor Moore, Walls of China, sunset, sunrise, cliffs, desert, sand dunes

The Walls of China – Mungo National Park | @conormoorephotography

If you can stretch your road trip further, make your way over to NSW and check out the Perry Sandhills and then to Mungo National Park . This park has some pretty interesting sand features, and Aboriginal sites that are over 50,000 years old. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and it features the oldest Aboriginal remains ever found.

Outback Victoria Key Stops

Natimuk – Little Desert National Park – Dimboola (Pink Lake) to Lake Hindmarsh – Big Desert Wilderness Park – GrainCorps Lascelles Silo Art – Sea Lake Silo Art – Lake Tyrrell – Murray-Sunset National Park – Red Cliffs – Mildura – Perry Sandhills – Mungo National Park

7. Historic Goldfields Track

Distance:  400km Start point:  Melbourne End point:  Echuca Highlights:  Daylesford, Heathcote, Bendigo, Echuca

Echuca’s at the NSW border, but it isn’t actually too far of a drive from Melbourne. Along the route you’ll pass through some of Victoria’s iconic towns and relaxed country scenes while driving along the general direction of the historic mining route, the Goldfields Track .

From wineries to lookouts to silo art, there’s a lot to see, especially if you’re willing to take a bit of a zig-zag route to see what the Victorian country really has to offer.

Start from Woodend and explore the greater Mt Macedon area, which has some nice and easy hikes overlooking country plains.

Then head to the beautiful Daylesford, which is a popular place for Melbourians to stay. Hepburn Springs is a highlight of the area, where you can soak and feel luxurious in mineral springs.

Following the Goldfields Track, driving via Maryborough, head to Castlemaine, where you can stop off at some lookouts as part of the Goldfields Track, including Lang’s Lookout and Shepherd’s Flat Lookout.

7 Best Victoria Road Trips, Ryan Fisher, Mt Macedon, countryside, farmland

Country scenes on the Goldfields Track | @r.yanfisher

Heathcote is a beautiful town to stay the night with an endless array of wineries. There are some worthwhile landscapes nearby, including the Pink Cliff Reserve, Viewing Rock Lookout and Mt Ida Lookout.

After checking out the greater Heathcote area, stop in Bendigo. Contrary to popular opinion, it’s a picturesque town, and the museum is definitely worth checking out.

From Bendigo, head up to Echuca, stopping in Rochester for a wander and to see the silo art. Once in Echuca, rest up along the river or hire yourself a houseboat. If you’ve got the time, Barmah National Park isn’t far and is definitely worth visiting.

Will You Murray Me? – It’s Time For A Murray Region Weekender by Conor Moore, camping, lake

Barmah National Park | @lexcello

Historic Goldfields Key Stops

Melbourne – Woodend – (via Black Forest Drive) Daylesford – Maryborough – Castlemaine – Langs Lookout -Shepard’s Flat Lookout – Heathcote – Bendigo – Rochester – Echuca – Barmah National Park

Victoria Roadtrip FAQs

How long does it take to drive the whole great ocean road.

It takes around 9.5 hours to travel the 664km length of the Great Ocean Road.

How do you go roadtripping?

The first step take is to pick a destination. Choose the route you want to take and make sure you have a reliable vehicle before you leave. It’s a good idea to have your car checked by a mechanic. Once you set off, remember to keep your car adequately fuelled for the distance ahead, and stock up on essentials like food, medicines, and water.

What tourist attraction is located in Victoria that is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in Australia?

The Great Ocean Road is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in Australia. The iconic road hugs the coastline offering incredible rock formations and stunning views.

Where can I go for a long drive in Melbourne?

One of the best long drives that begins in Melbourne is the Gippsland coast. It’s over 1000km and takes in the gorgeous scenery of Wilsons Promontory and the Great Lakes national park.

Where to go in Victoria in the summer?

Summer in Victoria is hot! It’s best to stay near the coast or at least riverside where you can cool off. The Great Ocean Road and Gippsland Coast are great options.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out of Melbourne, hit the road, and discover some of the best national parks and road trips in regional Victoria!

Feature photo by @ben.savage

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our  Editorial Standards .

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east coast victoria road trip

Claire's Footsteps

All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Overland Itineraries

East coast australia road trip itinerary and ultimate guide.

east coast victoria road trip

Show-stopping beaches, charismatic little towns, eden-like national parks and unforgettable adrenalin filled activities mean it’s no wonder why the east coast of Australia is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.

And it’s all relatively easy to explore; you just need a vehicle or a coach pass, a chunk of time (I’d recommend 6-8 weeks if you really want to see everything, or 4 weeks if you’re just after the highlights), sufficient funds and a sense of adventure!

This east coast Australia road trip itinerary will take you from just above the tropical city of Cairns, to hidden gems such as Mission Beach and Innisfail, through world famous sites like Magnetic Island and the Whitsundays, down through little surf towns and some of the best diving sites on the east coast to the bucket-list destination of Fraser Island, through south Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and its capital, Brisbane.

It will then traverse the Brisbane to Sydney drive, through the backpacker haven of the Gold Coast, then to northern New South Wales, an area that includes Byron Bay (one of my favorite places in the world) and its surrounding quirky towns and beautiful hinterland.

The route then follows the Pacific Coast Highway and travels through various beautiful New South Wales coastal towns before arriving at Sydney.

From Sydney, the east coast Australia road trip is directed to Melbourne via the coastal route, where the road calls at various other New South Wales and Victorian towns, national parks, and even an island before finishing in the state capital of Victoria; the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne.

It’s a long way, it will take you through a range of different climates and cultures, through tiny in-the-middle-of-nowhere towns to backpacker hubs and bustling cities, and will span some of the most gorgeous beaches on the planet as well as breathtaking inland natural scenery nearly every step of the way.

east coast victoria road trip

Are you ready for the ultimate east coast Australia road trip itinerary? This route is completely customisable to your wishes and needs. It could be done in reverse, or in chunks – if you’re flying into a different city, you might want to start elsewhere.

There are international airports in Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne and the Gold Coast on this route – check out this Gold Coast airport review to learn about this point of entry to the east coast of Australia.

If you’re not doing the whole Cairns to Melbourne drive, use this nifty table of contents to take you to just the part of the road trip that you want to go on.

Organise your vehicle for your East Coast Australia Road Trip

east coast victoria road trip

I traveled all over Australia in my trusty Subaru Forester, and I’d highly recommend to anyone to make this odyssey in your own (or rented) vehicle.

Not only does your own car or van give you the freedom to travel at your own pace, editing your itinerary if you want to stay longer or shorter somewhere, it often works out cheaper, because you can split fuel costs with friends and stay at free campsites.

I had my own car for this trip and all of my Aussie road trips, and if you are planning on traveling more than just the east coast (which you should, as the rest of the country is spectacular) then I’d recommend you buy a car of your own.

But if this road trip is a one-off or you don’t want the hassle and commitment of buying a car, renting is also an option.

I haven’t used any of these myself, but some popular companies are:

  • Jucy campers
  • Wicked Campers

If you’re planning on drinking 24/7 or just don’t fancy driving all of that way then taking the coach is probably the best bet for you.

Greyhound and Premier both plough the east coast daily – Greyhound is known for having better facilities, offering free (temperamental) wifi, power sockets, and comfier seats – but Premier is slightly cheaper.

Greyhound’s southern service from Sydney goes inland and pretty much straight to Melbourne via Canberra, but Premier follows closely to the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive I have suggested.

Once you get to Eden, which is right near the New South Wales/ Victoria border, V Line will get you through eastern Victoria and into Melbourne.

Once you’ve sorted your car, van or coach pass out, you’re ready to hit the road!

Do you want some more information about transport in Australia, where to stay, and what to eat in the land down under? Check out this Australia travel guide for some really helpful information.

When to Go On the East Coast Australia Road Trip

east coast victoria road trip

This East Coast Australia road trip itinerary begins in Cairns and travels south to Melbourne.

This is a great way to do your trip if you’re traveling in Australia’s autumn, as Victoria takes a while to heat up!

The reverse is true if you’re journeying in the spring.

If you’re road tripping in winter, brace yourself for cold temperatures in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Queensland but look forward to near-perfect weather in Central and North Queensland.

In the summer, you’ll be sweltering everywhere – but watch out for tropical storms and seriously hot temperatures in the North, and make sure you wear stinger suits everywhere that they’re recommended.

Where to stay on the East Coast of Australia – hostels or camping?

east coast victoria road trip

Nowhere quite does hostels like the East Coast of Australia – and I’m pretty sure that no hostels are quite as expensive as the East Coast of Australia.

You’ll make some great friends in the East Coast’s hostels and it would be a shame to miss them out completely, as they are a part of the coast’s backpacking experience.

But you may have to declare bankruptcy if you stay at all of them.

That’s why I’ve recommended selected hostels in some of the tourist hotspots, that I’ve either stayed at personally or that have come highly recommended by fellow travelers.

In all the gaps where hostels haven’t been mentioned, there are plenty of free camping options – which are perfect if you have your own vehicle.

If you’re intrigued about free camping in Australia and want to find out more, click on the below link.

If not, there are plenty of hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels in most of the tourist spots on your East Coast Australia road trip.

Cairns to Brisbane Drive Itinerary

Perhaps the most iconic road trip in all of Australia, the Cairns to Brisbane drive odyssey spans over 1700 kilometres, through countless national parks, beside hundreds of postcard-perfect beaches and a huge reef and takes you from the tropics to the subtropics.

There are so many reasons why the Cairns to Brisbane road trip is a world-famous travel journey; and this itinerary takes you through all of the best!

Suggested time frame – 3-4 days

east coast victoria road trip

Cairns is a backpacker hotspot, with many travellers to Australia beginning their trips here – which makes it the perfect place to start your Cairns to Brisbane drive.

The tropical city is a great place to accustom to Australian lifestyle and a few days can easily be passed chilling by the lagoon, dining at the many cafes and restaurants of the city and enjoying its nightlife scene.

However, amidst all of this hardcore relaxing, do save some time to venture to the outstandingly beautiful areas around the city.

Things to do in Cairns

  • Cool down with a dip in the lagoon
  • Dine and drink at the many establishments in the city
  • Do a free fitness class on the esplanade
  • Go on a tour of the Atherton Tablelands This area is a fantastic day trip from Cairns (although longer can be easily spent in the region) and includes gorgeous waterfalls , scenic lakes, outstanding lookouts and quirky towns. Take a self-drive trip or book a day tour.
  • Do a Great Barrier Reef tour I went with Ocean Freedom, who are fantastic for first time divers. People who are not certified (I was one of the only two on my boat who were!) have the chance to dive with an instructor after a safety briefing. It’s a great chance for anyone who’s thinking about learning to dive but is unsure if it’s for them. If you are certified, you’ll likely get the chance to go an a semi-private dive – I got whisked away on a speedboat for my second dive which was just me and the instructor.

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Where to stay in cairns.

Which hostel to pick in Cairns largely depends on how much you want to party. Cairns City Backpackers is pretty chilled out, with a BYO alcohol policy and quiet time late at night. It’s set in tranquil, rainforest-like setting and is a bargain price for a smaller dorm room. Click here for more information and to book .

If you do want to party, then there’s only one real option; the infamous Gilligans. Some people love it, some people hate it, but it’s without a doubt one of the busiest, loudest and most raucous hostel in Cairns.

It’s spread out over four levels, with amazing facilities such as free airport pick up, free WiFi and a lagoon swimming pool, and has an entertainment venue with bars and clubs within the hostel. They also offer cheap dorm rates and $5 dinners with free drinks. Click here for more information and to book .

There aren’t any free camping options within the city itself, but some in the local area. There are also a few paid campsites in and around the city. Drive north to Daintree National Park – 1 hour OR take a tour from Cairns

The Daintree Rainforest

Suggested time – 1-2 days

east coast victoria road trip

The Daintree can be done in a day trip from Cairns, but I think it’s worthy of a section all of its own. It’s a huge national park north of the city, with a tarmac road driving straight through the thick of the rainforest; and every so often, you’ll get a glimpse of the sea, which the road runs directly parallel to.

This is exactly why the ‘rainforest meets reef’ slogan of Far North Queensland was invented. There are short walks, cultural experiences, croc spotting cruises and four wheel drive tracks to be enjoyed within the breathtaking national park.

east coast victoria road trip

Things to do in the Daintree National Park

  • Hike through the rainforest and around the beautiful Mossman Gorge
  • Explore the Daintree tea plantation
  • Have a picnic overlooking the beautiful Cow Bay
  • Walk through the jungle at the Jindalba Boardwalk, Dubuji Boardwalk and Kulki Boardwalk
  • Take on the challenging Mount Sorrow hike
  • Enjoy the ‘reef meets rainforest’ vistas of Cape Tribulation beach
  • Go croc spotting at Daintree River
  • Check out the gorgeous Emmagen Creek at the start of the Bloomfield Track
  • If you have a 4WD vehicle, drive the Bloomfield Track; an unsealed road heading north to Cooktown

Daintree National Park Tours

Don’t have your own vehicle? There’s plenty of tours from Cairns to the Daintree National Park.

From Daintree National Park, drive 23 minutes/ 23.5 km south to Port Douglas. If you are on a tour, some also stop in Port Douglas.

Port Douglas

east coast victoria road trip

Between Cairns and Daintree National Park is Port Douglas, a hip town which has luxury restaurants, quirky cafes and a busy backpacker scene.

It’s a fun place to pop in for an afternoon or spend a couple of days in; depending on how much time you have! I know a few people who have lived and worked in the town as well.

Things to do in Port Douglas

  • Browse the beachside Sunday markets for tasty food and arty souvenirs
  • Drive or hike up to the top of Flagstaff Hill for a spectacular lookout over the town and four mile beach
  • Sample coffee at the various cafes of the town
  • Laze back on the gorgeous four mile beach

Where to stay in Port Douglas

If you’re after a bustling backpacker scene, Dougies is located just 300 metres from the beach and is fully equipped with everything you could want in a hostel in the tropics; an outdoor pool and barbecue, a bar and free parking. Choose from a 4 or 7 bed dorm or a private room and bathroom.

For rates and to book, click here . From Port Douglas, drive south back through Cairns, which takes 1 hour 5 minutes. Or return to Cairns on your tour!

The Port Douglas to Cairns drive is known as ‘Far North Queensland’s Great Ocean Road’ and the views of vibrant green rainforest bordering onto turquoise blue ocean are nothing short of spectacular. It’s one of my favourite drives in Australia (and I’ve drove around nearly all of it!) so take your time and stop off at as many viewpoints as possible. Either stay another night in Cairns, or begin your journey south to Innisfail and Mission Beach

Drive or catch a coach from Cairns to Innisfail, which is a distance of 88 kilometres and takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. 

Suggested time – 1 day

east coast victoria road trip

Known by many to be ‘the place where everyone does farm work’, many road trippers whizz past Innisfail. But there’s lots to do in and around the town to pass a day or more; so if you have time on your East Coast Australia itinerary, be sure to check this beautiful town out!

Things to do in Innisfail

  • Check out Josephine Falls, located between Cairns and Innisfail
  • Stroll around the town and enjoy the art deco architecture, which has bene in place since 1918
  • Sunbathe on the gorgeous sands of Etty Bay – and watch out for cassowaries!
  • Explore the rainforest from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk

Drive or take the coach from Innisfail to Mission Beach, which takes 40 minutes and is 52 kilometres in distance.

Mission Beach

Suggested time – 2-3 days

east coast victoria road trip

Mission Beach isn’t on every Tropical North Queensland itinerary, but it damn well should be – it’s one of my favourite parts of the east coast. The beaches here are absolutely mesmerising – when I walked down to my first I actually let out a little yelp of joy.

There’s a variety of walking trails through the rainforest region, opportunities to spot cassowaries (we didn’t see any, boo), some absolutely delightful cafes and restaurants, and, as the name suggests, kilometre after kilometre of gorgeous beachfront.

If I could get an ‘I HEART MISSION BEACH’ t-shirt, I would.

east coast victoria road trip

Things to do in Mission Beach

  • Hike up to Bicton Hill for a stunning view
  • Laze on 14 kilometres of beaches – but remember to use the stinger nets from October to May!
  • Eat at the quirky Bingil Bay Café
  • Take a water taxi to Dunk Island and do some of the walk tracks and marvel at the beaches there
  • Go scuba diving – the Great Barrier Reef stretches along most of Tropical North Queensland including all of Mission Beach

Accommodation in Mission Beach

east coast victoria road trip

If you’re looking for accomodation to relax and unwind in for a few days, Jackaroo Hostel is just the place. The treehouse-style hostel is set in beautiful grounds with a spectacular view, and just being there basically screams zen. Choose from a 6 bed dorm room or a private double room, all which come with included breakfast. For rates and to book, click here . Drive south 2 hours 48 minutes, which is 235 kilometres, or take the coach to Townsville.

east coast victoria road trip

On the Bruce Highway, I’d recommend taking a pit stop at the Frosty Mango restaurant, an eatery that serves all things mango, including delicious dairy-free ice cream. There’s also a huge mango outside (if you don’t know already, Australia loves its huge things) to snap a picture with!

east coast victoria road trip

Suggested time – 2 days

east coast victoria road trip

Townsville, ‘the capital of Northern Queensland’ is the gateway to Magnetic Island.

But there’s plenty within Townsville to occupy a day or two too, so before you hop over to the paradise that is Maggie Island, take some time to explore what Tropical North Queensland’s largest city has to offer.

Things to do in Townsville

  • Learn about wildlife in Tropical North Queensland, the history of scuba diving, ancient shipwrecks and more at the Museum of North Queensland
  • Learn about the region’s history at the Herbert River Museum
  • Visit the historic Old Brandon Church
  • Enjoy the bars and restaurants of the city
  • Walk around the picturesque marina

Accommodation in Townsville

Rambutan YHA is a popular backpacker hangout, located in the centre of the city. It doesn’t cut any corners, with facilties such as a rooftop pool, outdoor bar and restaurant and $10 dinner specials. Choose from a 5, 6 or 8 bed dorm or private rooms in different sizes.

Click here for rates and to book .

Take the ferry over to Magnetic Island, which is a 20 minute journey, costing around $19 per person.

Magnetic Island

east coast victoria road trip

A pure slice of paradise, Magnetic Island is worlds away from the city of Townsville.

The entire island seems to run at its own time, with a chilled-out pace that it seems you could only find within a certain number of degrees to the equator.

On Magnetic Island, there are historical walks, climbs to hidden beaches, snorkelling, safe swimming spots, and amazing sunset viewing areas… or there’s the chance to get very merry on cocktails and general island life and spend the day lazing in a hammock. The choice is yours.

east coast victoria road trip

Things to do on Magnetic Island

  • Take the forts walk to learn about the wartime history of the island and spot koalas
  • Go snorkelling at Geoffery Bay – you can pick up a self guided snorkelling tour from the visitors centre for $5
  • Hike to Balding Bay (which is Maggie’s unofficial nudist beach, FYI) or Radical Bay, both beautiful spots that are much quieter than the main beach!
  • Go for a dip in Nelly Bay’s stinger net
  • Discover more of the island’s history at the Magnetic Island History and Crafts Centre
  • Catch an amazing sunset at one of the many spots around the island

Where to stay on Magnetic Island

The home of Australia’s only full moon party, Base Backpackers is set in stunning surroundings and enjoys a bar, BBQ facilities and a swimming pool. The bar hosts themed nights and activities.

For rates and to book, click here .

From Magnetic Island, take the ferry back over to Townsville and start heading south. Drive from Townsville to Bowen, which is around 2 hour 20 minutes and 202 kilometres, or take a southbound bus.

Suggested time – stopover/ half a day

east coast victoria road trip

Although some people stop to do their farm work in Bowen, for many it’s not really much more than a quick pit stop. But the laid back town vibes, beautiful beaches and hikes to impressive lookouts do make it a worthwhile stopover on a southern drive!

Things to do in Bowen

  • Check out some of the eight amazing beaches that make up the area around Bowen
  • Learn about the tropical town at the Bowen Historical Musuem
  • Take a ferry over to Stone Island
  • Check out Horseshoe Bay from the Rotary Lookout
  • Snap a photo with yet another big mango!

Drive from Bowen to Airlie Beach, which is about 77 kilometres and takes around 58 minutes, or hop on a coach. 

Airlie Beach

east coast victoria road trip

Airlie Beach is somewhere you’ll constantly hear about as you’re travelling down the East Coast of Australia – and it is definitely a backpacker hub.

The town is catered for tourists, but if you’re looking for somewhere for a cheap dinner, a couple (dozen, maybe) beers and to meet some new travel mates, Airlie is your go to. Most people who are at Airlie Beach are coming off a Whitsundays tour, or about to get onto a boat. But there are a few things to do in the town itself.

Things to do in Airlie Beach

  • Take a dip in the refreshing Airlie Beach Lagoon
  • Browse the markets, which are held every Saturday
  • Check out the gorgeous Cedar Creek Falls, located en route to Proserpine
  • Visit the rainforest Conway National Park and go hiking

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

Nomads pretty much dominates the backpacker accommodation in Airlie Beach, and it’s easy to see why. The establishment is half hostel half campsite, with options for any type of backpacker.

The entire hostel is al-fresco based and as well as the standard amenities (kitchen, laundry, chill out area etc), it enjoys two bars, a swimming pool and free wifi. For rates and to book, click here .

The Whitsunday Islands

Suggested time – 3 days

east coast victoria road trip

The Whitsunday Islands are one of the ‘must see’ Australian odysseys that make the east coast famous. It’s vital to include visiting the islands in your east coast Australia road trip itinerary, and I’d advise doing the full 3 day 2 night tour to get the full experience.

east coast victoria road trip

I went with Wings , who offer a chilled out, sociable atmosphere with stop offs to all of the most beautiful spots of the islands. Also included was:

  • SO MUCH FOOD including buffet-style meals, snacks every time any of us got a twinge of hunger, and tea and coffee. They catered for dietary preferences really well and even let the special diets have first choice, which gave me yet another reason to love vegetarianism!
  • A shared cabin-style dorm – I slept in a little cubby hole, but it was pretty cosy!
  • All the snorkelling gear and four stops to see some of the best marine life in the area
  • A guided walk to Whitehaven Beach and to a look out
  • Slideshows of photos in the evening
  • Friendly, knowledgeable staff

Alcohol was brought on a BYO term. The boat isn’t an in-your-face party kind of boat, but a few of us got very merry on beer/ goon in the evenings.

east coast victoria road trip

If you want an in-your-face party style boat, I’d go with Clipper .

This isn’t the boat to choose if you want a good night’s sleep – but it’s hugely popular with travellers on the east coast! (it does also have a huge inflatable slide which looks awesome).

And if you’re looking for a bit more luxury, Ride to Paradise offers the same style tour, but instead of the boat, stays in luxury accommodation. There are dozens more Whitsundays tours, so if none of those take your fancy don’t fret – you’ll almost certainly find a great tour for you.

Whitsundays Tours

Your Whitsundays boat tour will take you back to Airlie Beach. Spend another night there, if you wish (there will most likely be an after party!), or head straight back to the road. Coaches leave Airlie Beach to Mackay, or drive the distance – just under 2 hours and 150 kilometres. 

I had a fantastic time in Mackay, although I didn’t do much other than get a subway (a sandwich, not an underground train). I’ve never felt so immediately welcomed into a city – at first, I thought everyone knew each other, but when they all greeted me with equal cordiality, I realised that people in Mackay are actually just that friendly.

Mackay is a launching point for the southern Great Barrier Reef and is home to some fantastic parks to the north and the west.

Within the town, there are lookouts, great food, lagoons and cycling trails. It’s a tropical city that’s worth a spot on your East Coast Australia itinerary.

Things to do in Mackay

  • Cycle on the Bluewater Trail
  • Take a dip in the Bluewater Lagoon
  • Visit Lambert’s Lookout for a Pacific view
  • Explore a sugar cane mill
  • Camp with kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough
  • Go hiking and platypus spotting at rainforest-based Eungella National Park

Take a coach or drive the distance to Rockhampton, which is 3 hours 40 minutes and 336 kilometres. 

Rockhampton

Suggested time – 1 day When I told a few people I was adding Rockhampton to my east coast Australia road trip itinerary, they laughed and said there was nothing there. I then looked up the best things to do in Rockhampton – and discovered that 5/9 revolved around the beef industry – not exactly a vegetarian’s dream. But, dig a little deeper and there’s some great things to do in Rocky that don’t involve meat of any kind.

Things to do in Rockhampton

  • Visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre which tells significant stories of the state and country’s Aboriginal population and their Dreamtime stories which is the basis for their culture
  • Catch the sunset over Mount Archer
  • Cross over the tropics at the Tropic of Capricorn Spire
  • Explore Quay Street and marvel at the historic, opulent buildings
  • Admire the works at the Rockhampton Art Gallery

Take a coach to Agnes Water, or drive the 2 hour 30 minutes, 225 kilometre journey.

Agnes Water/ 1770

east coast victoria road trip

A lot of people just stop in Agnes Water for a break up between the long bus between Airlie Beach and Rainbow Beach (although hopefully I’ve convinced you to make a few extra stops along the way too!).

But the surf town is a cool place to hang out for a few days. If you aren’t pushed for time on your Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary, take the chance to kick back on the beach for a few.

Things to do in Agnes Water/ 1770

  • Take a surf lesson for either $17.70 or $25 (I chose the $25 option, which is allegedly better – saying that, I chose it because it was the only one running in the afternoon. But I definitely felt like I got more than my money’s worth).
  • Do the Scooteroo tour – the tour takes you around the twin towns on scooters that are made out to look like huge badass motorbikes. I didn’t do it, but it looks like a lot of fun!
  • Check out some of the local national parks, such as Eurimbula, which has breathtaking coastline, 4WD tracks and scenic sunset spots.

Tours Around Agnes Water

Where to stay in agnes water/ 1770.

Southern Cross Backpackers is a super chilled out hostel with a variety of accommodation options – there’s a campsite that you can drive onto, or dorms.

Set in beautiful subtropical grounds, the hostel has a pool and a great chill out/ bar area. But the best thing about this hostel is that it has a really nice community feel, with staff who take the time to get to know and help you out and encourage guests to socialise. It’s not a mad party hostel, but rather one where you can enjoy a few beers of an evening with like minded travellers.

For rates and to book, click here . Journey to Rainbow Beach by driving 3 hours 40 minutes and 322 kilometres, or taking a coach.

Rainbow Beach

Suggested time – 1 day Rainbow Beach is a tiny little town (if you can call it a town!) nestled between Agnes Water and the Sunshine Coast. It’s an ever popular backpacker destination because… here is where you go on your Fraser Island tour. But Rainbow Beach is lots of fun too – kick back here for a couple of days if you have the chance.

Things to do in Rainbow Beach

  • Sandboarding at Carlo Sand Blow
  • Surfing and sunbathing at Double Island Point
  • Driving around the gorgeous Great Sandy National Park

If you’re booking on a Fraser Island tour, you’ll need to be at the safety briefing for 6pm the day before. This means staying at least one night in Rainbow Beach – and it’s a good idea to book for the day after too, so you’re not rushing after your tour and have some time for drinks with your group!

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

Dingos is one of the only hostels in Rainbow Beach, but it’s ran so well that there’s really no need for any competition. It’s outside-based, with two fun bars often featuring live music, $7 dinners every night and free vegan pancakes for breakfast each morning.

Choose from a hostel dorm room or sleep in your car or campervan for just $10.

Fraser Island

east coast victoria road trip

For Fraser Island you have two options. If you have a four wheel drive vehicle with a large clearance, 4WD knowledge, are sure that your car won’t break down on the island, good car knowledge in general and a sense of adventure then go ahead, do a self-guided tour of the island.

If you don’t (the only criteria of these I really met was a sense of adventure – unless I can count hair-raisingly navigating down the Gibb River Road in Western Australia as 4WD knowledge?) then the best thing is to book a tour.

I went with Dingos – who are ran by the same people as Dingos hostel – and highly recommend them. The tour involves four 4WD vehicles drove on a ‘tag along’ basis – so everyone who has a licence and is 21+ gets a chance to drive the cars.

The tour definitely burns the candle at both ends – so if you want to drive first thing in the morning you really have to limit the drinking the night before. There’s video footage of me on night two, dancing around a gazebo with a bag of goon. Needless to say I was not on the list of designated drivers the following morning.

Dingos Tours: What Do They Include?

  • Knowledgeable and friendly guides
  • Three meals a day – if you have any dietary requirements just state at the time of booking and they will provide an altered meal plan
  • Use of the 4WD vehicle for three days
  • Ferry crossing to Fraser Island
  • Campsite accommodation

east coast victoria road trip

Now, I’m never really a huge fan of tours – I much prefer hitting the open road with my own car and stopping wherever I want to, for however long I desire. But for Fraser it is kind of a necessity, and it’s a great place to meet new people.

Highlights of Fraser Island

  • The brilliantly blue Lake Mackenzie
  • 4WD – ing through the subtropical rainforest
  • Being drifted away in Eli Creek, a natural lazy river
  • The spectacular Champagne Pools
  • Gazing over the island from Indian Head lookout
  • Drinking (and dancing with) goon back at the campsite. Backpackers eh…

Other Fraser Island Tours

Return back to Rainbow Beach with the tour – you’ll probably want to stay another night at Dingos.  The next day, drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 134 kilometres to Noosa Heads or jump on a coach.

Noosa and the Sunshine Coast

east coast victoria road trip

Noosa is a charming town nestled in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. It’s loved by backpackers and locals alike, because of its beautiful surroundings and bustling atmosphere.

Things to do in Noosa

  • Exploring the coastal and inland tracks of Noosa National Park – which is very easily accessible from the town, even if you don’t have a car
  • Lazing, BBQing or swimming on one of the town’s many beaches
  • Café hopping and seeing who really does the best soy cappuccino in Noosa
  • Similarly, check out every breakfast spot in town (warning: you’ll need a huge appetite or a few days)
  • Climb up Mount Tinbeerwah for amazing panoramic views of the whole coastline
  • Go on a kayak tour of Noosa Everglades
  • Go stand up paddleboarding in Little Cove

Where to stay in Noosa

Nomads Noosa is located right in the heart of town, making all of Noosa’s main attractions easily accessible. There’s options to play beach volleyball or pool and drink at the on site bar. Choose from 8, 10 and 16 bed dorms and click here for rates and to book today . Trav el 141 kilometres, 1 hour 45 minutes, to Brisbane.

east coast victoria road trip

You’ve reached the big city!! I was most excited to get to Brisbane because it meant I could go to LUSH and stock up on shampoo bars, but there are lots of other things to do in Brissy too.

The city has a certain air of glitz and glamour about it, and within Brisbane, there are some great museums, fantastic restaurants and bars, a bridge climb and city beaches.

Things to do in Brisbane

  • Visit the museum of Queensland and learn all about the state you’ve just been exploring
  • Explore the world of contemporary art at Queensland Gallery of Modern Art
  • Rent a bike and ride around the city and its ‘burbs
  • Take a Kookaburra River Queens cruise – which use old style paddlewheel vessels – around Brisbane’s river, taking in the city’s attractions.
  • Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island
  • Climb the city’s Story Bridge and get impressive views of the entire cityscape
  • Enjoy all sorts of artwork at Queensland Art Gallery
  • Visit South Bank Parklands and laze away a hot Brissy day at one of the city beaches
  • Go on a whale watching tour (seasonal) to see humpback whales travel from the Antarctic to Queensland’s more mild waters

east coast victoria road trip

Note – one of the most popular Brisbane attractions is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

I’ve omitted it off this list because I don’t think that any institution, sanctuary or not, is ethical if it allows you to hold a wild animal who normally likes its space. If you can hold it, it has likely been unnaturally domesticized. If you want to see koalas, head to Magnetic Island or the Great Ocean Road where there are plenty in their natural habitat.

Where to stay in Brisbane

Brisbane City Backpackers is a friendly, well-equipped hostel with a bar and a roof terrace that boasts a fantastic view of the city’s skyline. Many people choose to stay in the hostel while working, but it’s equally welcoming to short-term visitors.

The on-site bar stands out for its $10 dinner options every night and fantastic drink deals. The atmosphere here encourages a party mood, but if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience or recovering from dancing with a bag of goon on Fraser Island (like me), getting a good night’s sleep is easy. The staff are always ready to offer helpful daytime activity recommendations.

One notable perk is the availability of free parking, a rare find in the heart of Brisbane.

Brisbane to Sydney Drive Itinerary

  You still with me? The Cairns to Brisbane drive itinerary was the longest chunk of your trip – but that’s not to say that the next two segments aren’t just as epic. If you’re venturing south of Brisbane, let me show you the very best spots to visit on this Brisbane to Sydney drive! Drive 1 hour, 78 kilometres, to reach Surfers Paradise. You can also jump on a Greyhound to do the distance, or take local buses and trains.

east coast victoria road trip

  If Australia was a cupboard of condiments, Gold Coast would definitely be marmite – you either love it or you hate it. (it wouldn’t be Vegemite, Australia’s answer to Marmite, because every Aussie young or old loves it).

Gold Coast is home to lots of beaches, plenty of good surf, parties until 6am and high rise buildings. The centre of the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise, which is where most of the backpacker hangouts are.

Things to do in Surfers Paradise

  • Go out – it’s what the city built its popularity on. Surfers Paradise has all night parties, day sessions, boozy BBQs – you name it
  • Believe it or not, it’s a popular destination for surfing – although the waves definitely seem for the more advanced, there’s some spots that are great for beginners too
  • Go to the all-vegan Lord of the Fries. These burger stalls are all over Melbourne and Sydney, but I think the Surfers Paradise joint was the first to be completely vegan. It mainly serves mock meat, which was a bit strange to eat – but it’s tasty comfort food and it saves animals and the world
  • Check out views of the city from the Sky Point Observation Deck
  • Head to Infinity, which is a house of optical illusions and a fantastic place to spend a rainy day!
  • Browse the beachfront markets on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night
  • Check out some more free things to do on the Gold Coast here .

east coast victoria road trip

Pssst… I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you’re after a lively backpacker scene and crazy parties, stick to Surfers. BUT there’s lots of quieter beaches in the Gold Coast that are amazing for a more chilled out holiday; make sure you visit some of these hidden gems on your Brisbane to Sydney drive!

Other beaches on the Gold Coast

  • Burleigh Heads
  • Coolangatta
  • Kirra Point
  • Mermaid Beach

east coast victoria road trip

Check out this Gold Coast Beaches Guide for some more information about alternative beaches.

Where to stay in Surfers Paradise

A well-facilitated hostel that’s perfect for both chill and party, BUNK is centrally located, with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. The hostel offers free breakfast, and each dorm has ‘privacy pods’ with individual lights and power sockets. However, if you want to socialise, there’s plenty of areas perfect for meeting new travel mates.

Drive 1 hour 2 minutes and 78 kilometres from Surfers Paradise to Mullumbimby. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to fast track straight to Byron Bay.

Queensland/ New South Wales Border

Crossing over into New South Wales from Queensland is pretty uneventful – if you’ve ever crossed into Western Australia, you’ll know how painful border crossings can be!

You’re not too far from Byron Bay, one of the best places on the planet in my humble opinion , but there are a few gorgeous spots that are worth visiting before you reach the hippy town.

Mullimbimby

Suggested time – stopover Slightly inland is the charming town of Mullimbimby – which many regard to be ‘Byron Bay 20 years ago’. It’s one of those towns where great pleasure can be had just by strolling around.

Things to do in Mullimbimby

  • Stroll around the Mullimbimby Community Garden
  • Check out the local Rainforest Walk
  • Enjoy the markets – Mullum Community Market runs on the 3 rd Saturday of every month and the Mullum Farmers Market is every Friday 7-11am
  • Check out some of the charismatic cafes
  • Stroll around the murals painted by local artists
  • Attend a yoga or pilates class or unwind at the day spa

Drive 10 minutes or 7.7 kilometres (yes, that’s it!) to Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads

Suggested time – stopover

east coast victoria road trip

Photo via Flickr by Richard Rydge Heading out to the coast from Mullimbimby is the tranquil Brunswick Heads, home to bushland opening out onto serene beaches.

Things to do in Brunswick Heads

  • Canoe, birdwatch or hike in the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
  • Catch a surf on the local beach
  • Jump from the old wooden bridge into the clear river (at high tide!)
  • Enjoy the vistas of the bush opening out to beach
  • Go stand up paddleboarding at Torakina Beach

Drive 18 minutes or 18 kilometres to Byron Bay

Suggested time – 3-4 days

east coast victoria road trip

Ahhh… Byron Bay. My second home and the only place in 18 months of travelling that could persuade me to stay longer than a month. I actually lived in Byron Bay, in a tent, for five beautiful months and I would go back in a heartbeat. There’s lots of reasons why so many people fall in love with beautiful Byron Bay, and it will no doubt be a highlight on your Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Here’s why it changed my life . I’d recommend staying in Byron Bay for as long as possible – but if you only have a few days, here’s the highlights.

Things to do in Byron Bay

  • Walk up to the lighthouse
  • Catch a wave at The Pass
  • Go scuba diving at Julian Rocks
  • Catch some live music at The Rails or the Northern
  • Watch the sunset while dancing away at the drum circle
  • Watch some of the amazing entertainers (often fire spinners or buskers) at Main Beach
  • Catch the Arts Factory’s talent show

I genuinely feel a pang in my heart while writing about Byron Bay – I miss it every day.

Byron Bay Tours

Where to stay in byron bay.

east coast victoria road trip

There’s no better place to stay at in Byron Bay than The Arts Factory.

Spreading out over 5 acres of gorgeous grounds, The Arts Factory is less of a hostel and more of an experience.

It’s got a name as a bit of a hippie hangout, and it definitely attracts the free-spirited and artistic – but really, there’s something for everyone at the Arts Factory.

Enjoy didgeridoo lessons, yoga classes, bush walks, the weekly talent show, and more at the Arts Factory, while staying in one of their dorms, private rooms, or even on the attached campsite, which is affectionately known as ‘The Jungle’.

I lived here for five months and couldn’t get enough of it.

The Hinterland of Byron Bay

east coast victoria road trip

Byron Bay’s famous for its beaches, but don’t forget to check out its amazing hinterland too. Home to waterfalls, national parks, forests and quirky towns, there’s something kind of magical about the Byron Bay hinterland.

east coast victoria road trip

Things to do in Byron Bay’s Hinterland

  • Eat locally sourced food in Newrybar’s Harvest restaurant
  • Head to Nimbin, which is possibly the hippiest town in Australia. Enjoy the laidback, organic lifestyle of the town and stock up on some erm… treats… if you’re into that kind of thing!
  • Hike to the top of Mount Warning to be the first in mainland Australia to see the sun rise
  • Walk to the base of the spectacular Minyon Falls
  • Stroll through rainforest of the Nightcap National Park to the gorgeous Protestor Falls
  • Have a swim in the plunge pool of Killen Falls

Drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 126 kilometres from Byron Bay to Yamba, or catch a coach heading south

east coast victoria road trip

Yamba is a sleepy little coastal town with lots of natural beauty and attractions. While it’s not the most visited town on the east coast by any means, it’s gaining popularity with backpackers and travellers doing the Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Things to do in Yamba

  • Go surfing at the many beaches
  • Bask in the stunning natural beauty of the Angourie Blue and Green Pools
  • Take the Angourie Walking Track along the stunning coastline
  • Enjoy the vista with a picnic at the Yamba Lighthouse
  • Do ‘Shane’s 10 buck tour’ which takes you around the town, telling you its stories in the tour operator’s own wicked humour

Where to stay in Yamba

Yamba YHA Backpacker Beach Resort is located right in the centre of town, and has the option of dorms or private rooms with en suite bathrooms. There’s an on site café and bar, BBQ facilities and free parking, and the hostel is where the famous ‘Shane’s Tour’ begins. For rates and to book, click here .

Catch a coach heading toward Coffs Harbour, or drive the 1 hour 38 minutes, 138 kilometre distance

Coffs Harbour

east coast victoria road trip

Photo by Andrea Schaffer via Flickr   Famed mainly for ‘The Big Banana’, there are some other attractions in Coffs Harbour that aren’t big fruit. Some of the best attractions are coastal, but my favourite bit of Coffs is its hinterland.

Things to do in Coffs Harbour and the surroundings

  • The gorgeous waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park
  • The Big Banana’s waterslides and activities
  • Koala spotting in Bongil Bongil National Park
  • Visit the rugged Muttonbird Island
  • Admire the boats at the marina and jetty

Drive 27 minutes, 34 kilometres, sout-eastwards from Coffs Harbour to Bellingen. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to skip this part and head straight to Port Macquarie. 

east coast victoria road trip

Bellingen is a wonderful little country town; I was there just after same-sex marriage was passed in Australia, and was uplifted by all the banners and signs throughout the town expressing their joy at equality.

Pair this with stunning buildings and fantastic cafes set in the most picturesque setting, and you’ve got yourself a perfect little town.

Drive westwards from Bellingen toward Armidale. It’s 155 kilometres, and would take around 2 hours with no stops – but let’s face it, you’ll be stopping a lot. 

The Waterfall Way

The Waterfall Way has some of the most scenic falls in the country. It’s a 185 kilometre road traversing no less than five national parks.

Waterfalls along the way

  • Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Skywalk Lookout
  • Crystal Shower Falls
  • Tristina Falls
  • Dangar Falls
  • Wollombi Falls
  • Chandler Falls
  • Red Cedar Falls (which a difficult 8km hike is necessary to reach – but definitely head there if you have the time!)  

From Armidale, travel down the Oxley Highway to reach Port Macquarie. At a distance of 250 kilometres, it’s just over 3 hours of driving.

Port Macquarie

east coast victoria road trip

Whether you head back out to the coast via the Waterfall Way return route or head south in the hinterland, you’ll eventually find your way to the Central NSW town of Port Macquarie. Famed for its stunning beaches, this town has a lovely laid back atmosphere and plenty to pass a few days.

Things to do in Port Macquarie

  • Check out the artistically painted rocks along the breakwall
  • Check out a sunrise or sunset on the many beaches
  • Grab a beer and watch the waves at the Beach House
  • Walk the 9km coastal walk which traverses most of the town’s beaches
  • Visit the ‘brothers’ and drive to the summit of the North Brother mountain, which offers spectacular views of the local area

Head 244 kilometres south to Newcastle, which should take you about 2 hours 10 minutes. Or hop on a coach heading in the same direction.

Suggested time – 1 day Just two hours north of Sydney, Newcastle is a buzzing town basking in scenic surroundings. Head to Newcastle to check out the coastal national parks and the charming atmosphere of the city itself.

Things to do in Newcastle

  • Glenrock State Conservation Area
  • Minmi Cemetary Walk, which tells some of the tales of the coal mining boom
  • Enjoy the vistas of Nobbys Beach and the city’s lighthouse
  • Visit the Newcastle Museum to learn more about the surrounding area’s history
  • See some local art at the Newcastle Art Gallery  
  • Go to the nearby Port Stephens and do the Tomaree Head Summit Walk .

From Newcastle, head to Palm Beach, which is a 173 kilometre or 2 hour 16 minute drive. If you are taking the coaches, you’ll need to head straight to Sydney.

east coast victoria road trip

Photo by Suzanne via Flickr You’re technically in Sydney’s northern beaches now! Palm Beach was made famous for being the setting of Home and Away, but there’s plenty to enjoy within the vicinity for not-so-big fans of the Aussie soap.

Things to do in Palm Beach

  • Take in a great view from Barrenjoey Lighthouse
  • Go paddleboarding from the beach
  • Walk around the Home and Away set
  • Dine at some of New South Wales’ classiest eateries  

Drive 43 minutes, 30 kilometres, along the side of the Pacific Ocean towards Manly, one of Sydney’s northern suburbs.

Manly  

east coast victoria road trip

I’m really dragging out this entrance to Sydney, aren’t I? You’re almost there – well, you’re technically there – Manly is and isn’t part of Sydney. It’s only a ferry ride to Darling Harbour, but the beaches and community atmosphere of the suburb make it an entity of its own. Many backpackers choose to stay, work and live in Manly over Sydney ‘proper’, and there’s plenty of draws to this part of the city.

Things to do in Manly

  • Visit the resident penguins at Collins Beach
  • Have a BBQ and catch the sunset at Shelley Beach
  • Do the 9km North Head Sanctuary loop walk from Shelley Beach, which will give you fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and wildlife spotting opportunities
  • Walk along the northern beaches via the Manly to Split walk
  • Check out the bustling markets of the town

Where to stay in Manly

If you don’t fancy staying in Sydney proper, check out Manly Bunkhouse, which boasts en suite dorms and rooms, communal areas, central location and outdoor spaces. Click here to find out more . Take the ferry over to Sydney Central, which costs $15 – or $2.60 if you are going on a Sunday! Or drive the 18 kilometre distance, which should take about 30 minutes (traffic dependent). 

east coast victoria road trip

Suggested time – 4 days You made it! Congratulations on reaching Australia’s largest city. Sydney’s definitely a bucket list city that every keen traveller should visit at least once in their lifetime. Although it’s not my favourite place in Australia, it was the first part of Australia I ever went to and that makes it very special for me.

Things to do in Sydney

east coast victoria road trip

  • Walk around the iconic Opera House
  • Stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, right by the harbour
  • Walk to Mrs Macquarie’s Seat and snap a great picture of the Opera House
  • Head to the Australian Museum to learn all about this weird and wonderful country
  • Explore the funky suburbs such as Newtown
  • Brunch in the upmarket Surry Hills
  • Head to the Eastern Beaches; admire the outdoor pool at Bondi and complete the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
  • Go to the NSW Royal National Park to check out sights like the Figure 8 Pools and Wedding Cake Rock
  • Check out this local’s guide to Sydney for more ideas

Sydney Tours

Where to stay in sydney.

Where you decide to stay in Sydney largely depends on what kind of scene you’re after; whether you want to enjoy the fast-paced life of the CBD, one of its quirky suburbs or chill out on Bondi Beach.

east coast victoria road trip

If you’re after a stay in Central Sydney, Railway Square YHA is a hostel with a difference – half of it is located in disused railway cabins! It also offers cheap breakfasts, excellent facilities and great events. For more information and to book, click here .

Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary

So many people fast track from Sydney straight to Melbourne, and I think it’s such a shame. This area of the country is spectacular, with amazing coastline, unique national parks and quirky townships. Take some time for your Sydney to Melbourne drive; to explore a little of southern New South Wales and eastern Victoria, and I promise you won’t regret it!

The Blue Mountains

Suggested time – 2-3 days To reach the Blue Mountains, drive 55 minutes or 62 kilometres from Sydney to reach the edge of the National Park. It’s an extra 30 minutes/ 40 kilometres to reach the three sisters, the most prominent landmark in the park. Alternatively, you can take the train to the national park from Sydney Central.

east coast victoria road trip

I’m sending you on a little detour here, but it’s well worth it. The Blue Mountains are located 62 kilometres west of Sydney, and they are nothing short of spectacular. If you’re taking the Greyhound down the coast, I’d really recommend renting a car, taking the train or taking a tour to this national park – it’s definitely an Australia must-see. Covered in eucalypt forests, the Blue Mountains are named so because of how the oil from the trees mixes with water vapour. They span over  11,400 km2 and encompasses hills, waterfalls, lookouts and spectacular panoramic vistas.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains

  • Three Sisters Lookout, the most popular and iconic spot in the Blue Mountains
  • Evans Lookout, my personal favourite
  • Traverse some of the many tracks of the mountains
  • Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre

Psstt.. If you’re visiting the Blue Mountains on a day trip from Sydney, head there on a Sunday, when the train fare is just $2.60

Blue Mountain Tours

From Bathurst, which is located at the other end of the Blue Mountains National Park, drive 253 kilometres to Canberra, which should take you around 3 hours 13 minutes.  Alternatively you can reach Canberra by bus or train from Sydney Central.

east coast victoria road trip

Tell anyone you’re planning on a trip to Canberra on your east coast Australia road trip and their response will be ‘why’? Famed for its dullness, the capital of Australia isn’t the top spot on anyone’s itinerary. Why am I recommending you go there then? Well, for all my history and politics fans, there’s lots to do in Canberra if you’re interested in getting to know how Australia works and has worked in the past. And I think if you’re travelling in a country, these are things you have a duty to know. Canberra can be done in a day trip from Sydney – it’s a three hour drive to the city (just down the road, you know), or you can take a coach or train between cities. There is enough to keep you occupied for longer though – check out this post for some ideas of what to do in 2-3 days in Canberra . If you’re self driving down the east coast, you can head south-east from Canberra and then continue your Sydney to Melbourne drive via the coast.

Things to do in Canberra

  • Visit the Parliament House and sit in on a question time (which is 2pm when the parliament is running)
  • Walk around the Old Parliament House, home of the Museum of Australian Democracy
  • See the Australian War Memorial
  • Enjoy a sunset over Lake Burley Griffin
  • See artwork at the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery
  • Look out over the city from the top of Mount Ainslie

Check out this guide to Canberra for more ideas.

Where to stay in Canberra

A spacious hostel in the city centre, Canberra City YHA offers a swimming pool, sauna, rooftop terrace and an onsite bar and café. Choose from double, twin or dorm rooms and check here for rates and to book . From Canberra, drive 2 hours 55 minutes/ 222 kilometres eastwards to Jervis Bay. If you are taking public transport, taking a bus to Wollongong and then local transport south to Jervis Bay is an option.

east coast victoria road trip

Bladdy magical. That’s what Jervis Bay is. Three hours south of Sydney, it’s a spectacular beach with white-as-it-gets sand and the bluest of blue waters. If it’s hot on your visit, it’s a great place to have a beach day – or there are hiking trails and swimming spots to enjoy. Whatever the weather, it will no doubt be a highlight on your Sydney to Melbourne drive!

Things to do in Jervis Bay

  • Have picnic at Greenfield Beach and enjoy the beautiful rockpools
  • Take the White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach along the bay
  • Go on one of the walking tracks of Booderee National Park
  • Walk the Abrahams Bosom Reserve which leads to some of the most secluded beaches in the area

From Jervis Bay, travel 1 hour 12 minutes or 87 kilometres to Ulladulla. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast of Australia, Premier serve this area of the country.

  Ulladulla

Suggested time – half a day

east coast victoria road trip

On your drive south, Ulladulla is worth a stop over on your Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive, mainly for the ‘one track for all’ walk which describes Aboriginal culture of the area, describing what happened when Europeans invaded and settled.   From Ulladulla, drive 50 minutes or 63 kilometres south to Mogo, or hop back on the Premier coach service.

east coast victoria road trip

Mogo is a quirky village that is really no more than a cluster of buildings on the side of the road, but it’s worth checking out to see some of the eccentric and arty shops, and admiring the treasures within each! From Mogo, drive 2 hours 20 minutes, 189 kilometres, to Eden, stopping in at some of the New South Wales state forests (many of which are also free campsites!) along the way.

New South Wales State Forests  

Suggested time – stopover or overnight stop

east coast victoria road trip

Away from the beach, New South Wales is home to some spectacular state forests. There are lots of free camping spots within these forests, each which contains walking trails and makes for a great leg stretch en route south. Look for signs to rest areas between Mogo and Eden; you’ll find information about local walking trails along this route.

Eden  

east coast victoria road trip

It’s scenic beaches all the way down now, and Eden is no exception. If you fancy lazing back on a beach, there’s plenty of those; or seek some adventure at one of the surrounding national parks.

Things to do in Eden

  • Visit Woboyn Beaches – located on the shores of Disaster Bay! – to enjoy the spectacular oceanic vistas
  • See the Ben Boyd National Park for 4WD tracks and short walks
  • Enjoy the heritage of the town through the Heritage Walk or Heritage Drive

From Eden, head toward the New South Wales/ Victoria border and then drive to Lakes Entrance. Total driving time 2 hours 46 minutes distance 242 kilometres. If you’re taking public transport, transfer to a V Line coach to reach Lakes Entrance.

New South Wales/ Victoria Border

Just south of Eden is the New South Wales/ Victoria border, another unassuming crossing that only involves passing a sign.

Lakes Entrance  

east coast victoria road trip

A somewhat sizable town under 200kms from the NSW/ Victorian border, Lakes Entrance is a perfect mix of idyllic water, beautiful beaches and fascinating history. It’s a laid back kind of town which is perfect for holidaying, camping and unwinding. It’s also one of the most beautiful spots of the south coast, in my humble opinion!

Things to do in Lakes Entrance

  • The Entrance to the Lakes walk which showcases some of the best natural scenery of the area
  • Hire bikes and explore the town with two wheels
  • Take an eco cruise to see some local marine life
  • Explore the limestone formations of Buchan Caves Reserve  

From Lakes Entrance, drive 3 hours 34 minutes or 273 kilometres westwards towards Wilson’s Promontory. If you are taking public transport, it is easiest to travel from Lakes Entrance straight to Melbourne and organise day trips to Wilson’s Promontory and Phillip Island from there.

Wilson’s Promontory  

east coast victoria road trip

A national park bordering the beach, and the southernmost point of Australia, Wilson’s Promontory is a fantastic place to stop on a Victoria road trip.

The park is free to enter and explore, and includes hikes and beaches. Its   natural beauty makes it an essential stop on your Sydney to Melbourne drive.

east coast victoria road trip

Things to do in Wilson’s Promontory

  • Walk to Sealers Cove, which is a 19 kilometre day walk
  • Stay at Wilsons Promontory Lightstation
  • See the world’s most southern mangroves
  • Hike to the top of Mount Oberon
  • Squeak around on the sands of Squeaky Beach  

Day Tour to Wilson’s Promontory

Drive just under 2 hours, 134 kilometres, to reach Phillip Island. The island is connected to Australian mainland by a 26 kilometre long bridge, so you don’t need to worry about ferry crossings!

Phillip Island

east coast victoria road trip

Located off the coast just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a great pit stop.

Famed for its wildlife, water sports and motor sports, there’s plenty of great reasons to visit Phillip Island if you’re not quite ready for big city life and the end of your east coast road trip.

Things to do on Phillip Island

  • Surf from one of the many beaches
  • See some of the spectacular wildlife, including penguins, seals and koalas
  • Go go-karting and learn about the history of motor spots at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre
  • Check out the crashing waves of Cape Woolami along the rugged coastline of the island

Phillip Island Tours

Drive 1 hour 50 minutes, which is 141 kilometres, from Phillip Island to Melbourne

Melbourne  

Suggested time – 4 days or more!

east coast victoria road trip

Bet you thought you’d never get there, right?

Nearly 3000 kms from Cairns – although if you’ve taken all of my suggested detours, you’ll have racked up a good few more kilometres – your arrival in Melbourne is a long time coming.

Melbourne is a vivacious, ever-changing city with a great community feel and upbeat spirit. It reminds me a lot of Bristol, my adopted hometown, and it has tons of amazing things to see and do.

Things to do in Melbourne

  • Visit some of the amazing museums or galleries throughout the city
  • Café hopping in funky Fitzroy or other suburbs
  • Discover some literature gems at the State Library of Victoria (and of course snapping a photo of )
  • Support  Melbourne’s most sustainable restaurant, Lentil as Anything
  • Enjoy seaside vibes at St Kilda
  • Watch the penguins at St Kilda
  • Get lost in the other endless suburbs
  • Catch a live music event at one of the many venues around the city
  • Eat at some of the best restaurants in Melbourne
  • Get out and exploring some of the surrounding towns and natural wonders. These include: the Grampians National Park, the Great Ocean Road, the city of Ballarat, the quirky town of Daylesford.
  • If you’re not quite road tripped out yet, check out this Victoria road trip itinerary to see the best of the west of the state.

Where to stay in Melbourne  

For well-equipped accommodation at budget rates, there’s nowhere better than Urban Central. This busy hostel has lots going on, with cheap dinners, an on site bar and complimentary bike hire, rice, pasta, tea and coffee. The dorms are great for a good night’s shut eye; each bunk has its own light, a comfy mattress and a large locker with a power point inside each. For rates and to book, click here.

There are so many more things to do in Melbourne, and it’s a great place to set some roots down and live for some time. If you’re looking to find a job after your Cairns to Melbourne road trip, working a while in Victoria’s capital could be the answer!

East Coast Australia Tour

If you don’t fancy doing the whole trip by car or coach, guided tours from G Adventures travel the popular East Coast route. They’re a great company who have a sustainable influence with their tours. Click here to find out more.

east coast victoria road trip

Your ultimate Cairns to Melbourne road trip guide

If you’ve managed to read this Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary from beginning to end, I salute you – it’s one long post! But please do save it for later and check back – this is just the beginning of a series of posts on the East Coast of Australia. Expect destination specific hostel guides, packing lists, driving tips and example budgets online over the course of the next few weeks! Subscribe to never miss a post, or come and say hello over on Facebook !

Hey! I’m on YouTube too!

I’m currently travelling from Bali to London without taking a single flight! I’m documenting my journey on YouTube and would love it if you could follow me there! Here is a video detailing the journey a bit more:

Click here to go to my channel – I’d love it if you subscribed and joined the community! Thinking of exploring the rest of Australia? Please do, it’s awesome! I’ve written a few more handy guides like this one, which are perfect to put your wanderlust into action!

Related Posts

  • Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
  • Melbourne to Perth Drive Itinerary
  • Perth to Broome Drive Itinerary
  • Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary (via the Gibb River Road)
  • Darwin to Adelaide Drive Itinerary
  • Adelaide to Cairns Drive Itinerary (via the Inland Way)

If you’re yet to head to Australia, check out my packing list to make sure you’ve got everything and send your friends and relatives this Australia gift guide so they can get you a little something before you head off!

Finally, if you have a lot of questions, I now offer travel coaching! Here’s some more information about this service .

Disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This is just one of the ways I keep this blog running!

Pin me baby, one more time

Searching for an east coast Australia road trip itinerary? This suggested route will take you through the highlights and hidden gems of the east coast of Australia, including spots in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Split into three sections: Cairns to Brisbane drive, Brisbane to Sydney drive and Sydney to Melbourne drive, and with Australia hostel recommendations and plenty of travel tips for Australia, this is the only Cairns to Melbourne drive itinerary you'll need. Click through to read more!

5 thoughts on “ East Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary and Ultimate Guide ”

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Nice blog and great places to visit

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Brilliant guide Claire, love the format and all the information you provide. Can I ask if you remember where the spot was from the photo you have of Eden in NSW? Looks amazing! (Not planning on visiting just yet thought due to the bushfires)

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Hi Jake, thanks so much for your comment. the photo would have been from the Main Beach in the centre of town. Hopefully the bushfires get better soon there!

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Hey, brilliant road trip Itinerary! We are halfway between our Cairns to Brisbane road trip and your post has been really helpful so thank you!

We will be going to Agnes water in a couple of days, can you tell me the company you did your afternoon surf lesson with please?

Thanks! Amber

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Thanks for sharing the itinerary. Definitely gonna use this itinerary for my upcoming trip to East Coast Australia.

Comments are closed.

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A 4WD on Rainbow Beach in Queensland.

Scenic routes: five of the best road trips along Australia's east coast

From Wilson’s Prom to Cape Tribulation, Jennifer Ennion has lost count of her trips up and down Australia’s east coast – here she shares her highlights

With Billy Joel blaring through the 4WD, surfboards and Sups strapped to the roof racks and the boot packed to the brim with skateboards, sand buckets and wetsuits, I travel Highway 1, up and down Australia’s east coast.

As a travel writer, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve done the trip from the chilled-out tropics of far north Queensland down to the empty wilderness of Victoria, on extended holidays and long weekends.

Whichever you’ve got time for, the Pacific coast of Australia has a beach bag full of salty adventure. So, as borders reopen, here are a handful of my favourites.

The (extended) Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Perfect for: A five-day trip Trip type: One way Leave from: Torquay (one hour out of Melbourne)

Cape Otway Lightstation: a worthwhile detour along the Great Ocean Road

We’ve all seen the photos of surfers at Torquay and the crumbling 12 Apostles, but there are plenty of other worthy and lesser-known stops along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. The route officially starts in Torquay, about 104km south-west of Melbourne, and ends at Allansford, just shy of Port Fairy. It stretches 243km and, contrary to popular belief, doesn’t skirt the coastline the entire time, winding its way through farmland too.

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Aside from Torquay, Lorne and those famous limestone stacks, make tracks to wild Johanna Beach, historic Cape Otway Lightstation and the tiny culinary town of Timboon . The best time to go is summer, when the Southern Ocean loses some of its bite, but avoid public holidays, when holiday park prices spike and you can get caught out paying $100 per night for a site.

Central Coast loop, NSW

Perfect for: A long weekend Trip type: Loop Leave from: Sydney

Patonga and the headland at Brisbane Water National Park on the Central Coast of New South Wales.

With countless surf beaches, hiking trails, ocean pools and mountain biking, it’s no surprise plenty of Sydneysiders spend their holidays on the Central Coast. Only 90 minutes north of the city, it’s an idyllic getaway centred around sand and sea. Start a road trip in the pretty fishing village of Patonga, where you can stay at the chic Boathouse Hotel Patonga and pop over to Pearl Beach for swimming.

You’ll then want to make your way to Killcare, where highlights include hiking through Bouddi National Park to a sandy cove for a picnic, and grabbing coffee in peaceful Hardys Bay. Your next stop should be Terrigal, where you can bed down at the Crowne Plaza , enjoy a spot of boutique shopping and eat out at some of the Coast’s best restaurants. Round out your stay visiting Norah Head Lighthouse and surfing at Soldiers Beach. A great locals’ secret is Bateau Bay beach , between Terrigal and Norah Head. It’s a hidden cove of sand with child-friendly swimming, snorkelling and surfing.

Sunshine Coast hinterland loop, Queensland

Perfect for: A week-long trip Trip type: Loop Leave from: Brisbane

The view at sunset from the top of Mt Ngungun, in the Glass House Mountains of Queensland

If you’re craving an east coast adventure away from the sea, the Sunshine Coast hinterland makes for a wonderful week-long road trip that blends nature and great food.

For holiday exercise, start at the Glass House Mountains, about an hour’s drive north of Brisbane. There are a tonne of hiking trails across the 11 peaks that make up the Glass House Mountains and I highly recommend scaling the short but sweet Mt Ngungun (2.8km return) to catch sunset from the peak.

Your next stop should be the hinterland hub of Maleny, where the main street is lined with bustling cafes, artisan producers (check out Maleny Food Co .) and boutique clothing and homewares stores. Be sure to stock up on your road-trip snacks in The Maple Street Co-op .

Heading north, you’ll then want to make time to stop in Montville, another cute one-street town with boutiques and cafes worth wandering into. A hinterland road trip isn’t complete without spending time in Eumundi. Admittedly, it is popular and can get busy, especially when the sprawling markets are on (Wednesdays and Saturdays), but you’ll find a slice of serenity in local favourite The Store Eumundi , where you can grab a bite to eat and pick up gourmet goodies for the road.

The Great Barrier Reef drive, Queensland

Perfect for: A week-long trip Trip type: One way Leave from: Cairns

Coconut groves at Thala Beach Nature Reserve between Cairns and Port Douglas

What better way to banish Covid cabin fever than by heading underwater to explore the Great Barrier Reef? Spend a couple of days in Cairns taking advantage of the numerous snorkel, scuba dive and island tours, then hit the Great Barrier Reef drive, a short but oh-so-scenic 140km stretch north to Cape Tribulation.

Give yourself a full week to savour the route, first meandering from Cairns to the resort village of Palm Cove, where days are spent dining on mud crab and devouring beachside gelato (splurge on dinner under the palms at Nu Nu Restaurant ). Then head to Thala Beach Nature Reserve , one of Australia’s best eco lodges. You’ll want a night or two here so you can really soak up the serenity – it is a little on the pricey side, but for your money you get a private beach with foreshore hammocks, free guided walks around the expansive grounds, as well as the tiered pools and an open-air restaurant with impressive views.

Next, it’s on to Port Douglas, where the pace picks up and you can lap up great restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. It’s also a good spot from which to hit the water for another reef visit, as plenty of boat operators leave from here.

Afterwards, make your way to Cape Tribulation but be sure to detour via Mossman Gorge , where you can immerse yourself in Kuku Yalanji culture.

Once you catch a car ferry across the Daintree River to eventually reach your final destination, you’ll be tempted to stop and flop, but instead visit The Daintree Discovery Centre for an overview of the area’s incredible biodiversity, before stopping at The Daintree Tea Company ’s roadside stall to pick up some pure local tea.

The ultimate east coast itinerary: Melbourne to Cairns

Perfect for: Six weeks or longer Trip type: One way Leave from: Melbourne

The Pacific Highway near Collombatti on the NSW north coast.

If a week away really isn’t going to cut it, there is no better road trip in Australia than the east coast top to bottom, or vice versa. The best way to tackle this epic jaunt is to hire a motorhome in Melbourne and spend a few months calling into regional towns on your way to Cairns, where you can return your camper and fly home.

A great place to kick off your trip is in Victoria’s Wilsons Promontory , where you can unwind on empty beaches and enjoy some of Australia’s most sought-after campsites. Fishermen will then love spending time in a tinny at Lakes Entrance, and it’s worth stopping a while in Mallacoota to spend much-needed tourism dollars in the bushfire-ravaged community.

In NSW, call into Narooma for the famous oysters , go kite-surfing in Gerroa, enjoy café culture ( and remnants of counter culture ) in Bellingen, and peace-out in Lennox Head, the smaller, surfie sister of Byron Bay.

When you cross over into Queensland, you’re spoilt for choice with destinations. Bypass the city crowds and catch the ferry to Moreton Island , a playground for 4WDers and wreck divers.

The large, free beachside Yeppoon pool in Queensland

Rainbow Beach should be your next stop but don’t simply chill in town; instead, watch the tides and journey to Double Island Point for a surfing and swimming adventure. Other stops you’ll want to make are Yeppoon (where there’s a great, free beachside pool), Bowen (an underrated Whitsundays gem), and Mission Beach (where you can mountain bike through the rainforest ). Once in Cairns, day-trip to tropical islands like Fitzroy or Green for snorkelling and an end-of-trip high.

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east coast victoria road trip

Travel Australia By Campervan

12 Breathtaking Road Trip Stops Between Sydney And Melbourne

A road trip from Sydney to Melbourne is one of the best ways to explore the southeast coast of Australia. No matter what your preferred style of road trip is, this itinerary has something for everyone - making  choosing a campervan itinerary for your upcoming road trip simple!

Oysters

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Winding its way through 800km of mountain ranges, national parks, wondrous forests, stunning coastal waterways and bushlands, this route offers breathtaking views at every turn. Simply pick up your camper rental from a Britz campervan branch in  Sydney or  Melbourne and hit the road. To help you make the most of your Aussie campervan holiday, we’ve compiled a list of the top 12 stops along the way you won’t want to miss!

Is driving between Sydney and Melbourne easy?

Driving between Sydney and Melbourne is around 878 km and takes around 8 hr 48 minutes if you were making a direct trip. The roads are all sealed and well-marked, making for a very easy drive. However, we recommend taking a longer scenic route so you can fully enjoy the road trip experience. It is also safer to break your trip up and take stops. These simple  road safety precautions will ensure you and your group arrive at your destination safe and sound. Taking lots of breaks is also important when  planning a family campervan holiday to keep little travellers happy.

What’s the best driving route between Sydney and Melbourne?

The  Sydney-Melbourne coastal road trip offers exceptional views and plenty of great places to stop along the way. Getting there via campervan means you can stop as often as you like for as long as you like. There is also a range of campsites and  free camping options to make stops along the way simple, convenient and cost-effective. There are so many reasons to hire a campervan to travel Australia ’s southeast coast!

12 of the best stops between Sydney and Melbourne

1. the royal national park.

Located around 50km south of Sydney is the Royal National Park . The park is home to koalas, kangaroos and wallabies, and over 1,000 plant species making it a great place to take in Australian nature and wildlife. Here you’ll also find the famous Wattamolla Lagoon (a popular swimming spot amongst Sydney locals) and plenty of opportunities for hiking along the many walking tracks through the park.

Another top attraction is the figure eight rockpools - a series of stunning oceanside rockpools scattered along a rock shelf in the park. Just be aware of  staying safe in the water and checking the tides before planning your visit.

NSW Royal National Park - Mark Clinton - driving scenic exterior 86.jpg

Kiama  is a small coastal town located on the South Coast of New South Wales. Kiama’s most famous landmark is its blowhole - a geyser that spouts water up to 10 meters high off an exposed rock face south of town. But there are plenty more reasons to stop by this relaxed seaside village. While in town, be sure to check out the Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience . This tour offers guided walks through the rainforest and indigenous artwork demonstrations by local artists and is easily one of the best Aboriginal Experiences in Australia . Another must-do is a stroll along Cathedral Rocks Beach for views of limestone formations jutting out into the ocean, stunning doesn’t even begin to describe it.

NSW Kiama Blowhole - Mark Clinton - coastal scenic 66.jpg

3. Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay  is an easy drive from Sydney and Melbourne and makes for an amazing day trip or weekend getaway! You can easily spend several days exploring this beautiful area. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go scouting for dolphins or whales, hike along a coastal walkway, adventure out on the short but scenic  White Sands Walk or have a picnic by the sea, there are so many activities to choose from.

4. Ulladulla

If you’re interested in the history of Australia, then  Ulladulla is the place for you. Located on the South Coast of New South Wales, Ulladulla is a town that boasts an impressive array of historical sites to visit and things to do. From museums and galleries to history walks and fossil trails, there’s plenty here! The top things in town include the Gondwana Coast Fossil Walk , which takes you through some amazing coastal scenery as you get some hands-on experience with the fossils.  The Alley Gallery is also well worth stopping in at for a glimpse into this coast's history and culture.

Narooma  is a small town on the far south coast of New South Wales, an hour south of Batemans Bay. It's easy to see why it's such a popular destination for travellers passing along this route. Spend your time exploring national parks and nature reserves (the most popular being Narooma Nature Reserve), visiting local attractions like Handkerchief Beach and Montague Island Tourist Park or having a picnic at one of its many picturesque picnic areas.

east coast victoria road trip

6. Central Tilba

Central Tilba  is a village tucked away on the south coast hinterland of New South Wales, known for its history in the dairy industry. The rich volcanic soil is the secret sauce to the success of the thriving local dairy farms and has helped them cultivate world famous cheese! While in town, some of the top things to do include going snorkelling at Mystery Bay , experiencing the local flavours on a Taste of Town and Country Tour, and enjoying the local flora and fauna on the Bellbrook Farm Loop Walk .

7. Bermagui

Bermagui  is a small coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, known for its spectacular harbour and lakes, perfect for summer adventures. While you’re in Bermagui, rent a kayak or SUP and explore Wallaga Lake. Alternatively, head to the incredible saltwater ocean  Blue Pools for a day of seaside relaxation.  Camel Rock is another popular attraction for geology enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture this ancient formation.

8. Croajingolong National Park

Croajingolong National Park  is said to be one of the most beautiful national parks in Australia, with dramatic coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. The park draws its name from two Aboriginal words that mean "long stretch of water". Its description doesn’t lie. The wilderness coast takes you along 30 km of spectacular Victorian coastline with vistas across rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and rocky headlands.

If you love birdwatching, then this is your perfect road trip stop! Visit Point Hicks Lightstation, where more than 230 species have been recorded. Or choose to explore the wildlife in the waterways on a kayak over to the Tamboon, Mallacoota and Wingan Inlets.

9. Lakes Entrance

If you’re looking for a place to stop between Sydney and Melbourne that is beautiful, scenic and peaceful,  Lakes Entrance is the perfect destination. Located in Victoria on the shores of Lake Entrance, this town is a tourist destination known for its warm climate and pristine beaches.

Here you will find plenty of restaurants to dine at while watching boats sail past, or if you prefer something more casual, why not enjoy a short drive and have a drink or meal at one of Lake Tyers beachside cafes? If you want to get out into nature and experience the abundance of wildlife, there are also lots of great bushwalking trails in Lake Tyers.

10. Buchan Caves

Buchan Caves  is tucked away in the far east corner of Victoria, Australia and is home to Victoria’s largest cave system. There are several caves that are open for guided tours so that you can experience this remarkable cave system for yourself! Wander through spectacular caves, vast open caverns as well as an ancient flowing stream on this experience to remember.

11. Wilsons Promontory

Wilson's Promontory  is the most southerly point of the Australian mainland. It’s home to many rare and endangered species as well as scenic hiking trails and beaches to explore. This is the perfect road trip stop for nature lovers.

One of the top things to do in this island paradise is swim at Normans Beach, which sits between Cape Liptrap and Cape Pillar. Prefer to work up a sweat? Climb Mount Oberon or Mount Bishop for panoramic views of Wilsons Promontory National Park; keep your eyes out for wombats, kangaroos and emus as you hike through the bushland for unparalleled views of this region.

12. Phillip Island

Nestled on the edge of Bass Strait,  Phillip Island is a great place to visit for its beaches, wildlife, food and wine. The town itself has a small-town vibe with local shops and cafes scattered throughout the island. If you're looking for some family-friendly fun, then head to  A Maze'N Things or join one of many  whale discovery trail experiences around the island.

Best of all, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head out in search of our famous penguins at the  Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Park. Here you'll see hundreds coming ashore each evening during the summer months from October to March.

east coast victoria road trip

Experience Australian culture in a Britz Campervan

If you're looking for an opportunity to see some of southeast Australia's most breathtaking and unique natural landscapes, a drive from Sydney to Melbourne is it. There's no better way to see all these amazing sights than in the comfort of your own vehicle. This is especially important if you are travelling in a campervan with young kids . Booking a campervan hire means you can stop whenever they want (or need), rather than having to stay on a schedule set by tour guides or bus drivers. And since there are so many attractions along the way between Sydney and Melbourne, a campervan hire makes planning your trip (and adjusting as you go) super easy!

Ready to hit the road to experience Australian culture in a Britz campervan?  Book a campervan with Britz today. We have a range of campers from the compact  Britz Venturer to our spacious  Britz Frontier - there is something for every group size and budget. For more information on renting a Britz campervan ,  choosing the right campervan as well as  tips for family campervan holidays and more, check out our blog.

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

8 Best Road Trips in Victoria to Take This Summer

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The best way to explore the variety of landscapes in Victoria is on a road trip. Whether driving along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, or admiring the jaw-dropping views on the Great Alpine Road, there’s an endless amount of road trips in Victoria to get out into nature and discover the different region’s of the state.

Whether here or overseas, there’s something special about exploring the countryside on a road trip. And I’ve been lucky enough to take many road trips around Victoria, visiting various national parks and historic towns.

This guide will breakdown the 8 best road trips in Victoria, from famed roads to more secluded hidden gems. Whether you have a long weekend or a week to spare, these road trips will take you through the best parts of the state.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Best Time to Road Trip Victoria

Summer is undoubtedly the season where Victoria comes to life. It’s the warmest and nicest time of the year to enjoy the outdoors and go for a road trip. However, this is also the busiest time to explore the state, with most towns crowded with visitors and accommodation booked out in advance.

This is why I tend to opt for spring or autumn when it comes to road trips in Victoria. This is when the weather is more mild and the crowds have well and truly gone home. If I had to choose, I would say autumn presents the best weather, as you can still get some warm days on the coast.

best road trips in victoria pin

Tips for Road Tripping in Victoria

  • Don’t forget roadside assistance and/or travel insurance as you never know what might happen along the way
  • Download Petrol Spy or similar app to find the cheapest fuel on the way, as some of the fuel stations charge a lot more on the coast
  • If you do road trip during summer, be prepared for plenty of crowds with campgrounds and accommodation often booked out well in advance, so plan ahead
  • Avoid driving at night as this is the most dangerous time to drive, especially with wildlife on the road. Ensure you reach camp or a town before sunset
  • Use the  Wikicamp app  to find camping spots or booking.com to find accommodation in any of the towns

Childers Cove Beach

Road Trip Packing Essentials

  • Reusable coffee cup
  • Reef safe sunscreen
  • First aid kit
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Walking shoes
  • Healthy snacks

Best Road Trips in Victoria

If you’re looking to hit the road and explore Victoria this summer, then I highly recommend going on one of these road trips. From famous coastal routes like the Great Ocean Road to lesser known gems of regional Victoria like the Silo Art Trail, these roads trips explore a different part of the state.

A couple of important things to note. These recommendations below are assuming that you’ll begin your road trip in Melbourne, but you could easily alter them based on where you live. These trips are also ideal for those who have longer than a weekend to dedicate to a trip; most of them cover a few hundred kilometres which would be too rushed for a weekend.

Driving the Great Ocean Road

1. Great Ocean Road

Distance: 380 km one way Recommended time: 2-5 days

Kicking the list off with the most famous road trip of them all; the Great Ocean Road. Traditionally stretching 240km from Torquay to Allansford on the southwest coast of Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is regularly considered one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world.

Winding its way along the surf breaks and dramatic cliffs of the coast west of Melbourne, the road is much more varied than most think. It takes in pretty coastal towns, golden beaches, limestone sea stacks, waterfalls, dense rainforest, and pine plantations.

The biggest question is how long does it take to drive the Great Ocean Road. While you can technically do it in a weekend, I highly recommend allowing 4-5 days to really appreciate it. Popular overnight stops along the road include Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, which you could easily spend one night in each. Or, continue to Port Fairy past Warrnambool, if you have time for an extra night.

For more in-depth guides for the Great Ocean Road, check these out:

  • Ultimate Road Trip on the Great Ocean Road
  • A Weekend Guide to Torquay
  • 10 Best Walks on the Great Ocean Road
  • 8 Best Sunset Spots on the Great Ocean Road
  • 9 Best Waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road
  • 15 Best Campsites on the Great Ocean Road
  • 12 Unique Places to Stay on the Great Ocean Road
  • Complete Guide to the Great Ocean Walk
  • A Weekend Guide to Port Fairy

Alternative return: Head up to the Grampians National Park and head back to Melbourne from there, see #7 below.

Right Point carpark

2. Gippsland Coast – Melbourne to Mallacoota

Distance: 650 km one way (without side trips to Phillip Island and Wilsons Prom) Recommended time: 5-10 days

A little more rugged and wild than the Great Ocean Road, the Gippsland coast runs the full length of Victoria’s coast from Melbourne to Mallacoota/NSW border on the eastern side of the state.

It’s a lengthy drive and the roads don’t hug the coastline like they do on the Great Ocean Road. However, there’s plenty of opportunities to explore long beaches, surf breaks, coastal forest, and pretty towns.

If you take the South Gippsland Highway east of Melbourne, which then joins with the Princes Highway A1 in Sale, it’s roughly 650km to reach Mallacoota. This could probably be done in a 3-4 day road trip with stops at Foster, Paynesville or Lakes Entrance, and Orbost. However, I’d highly recommend adding a few extra days and allowing for detours to Phillip Island and Wilsons Prom.

Day 1-2: Head to Cowes on Phillip Island Day 3-5: Explore Wilsons Prom Day 6: Continue to Yarram and take a few hours to explore Tarra-Bulga National Park Day 7-8: Spend a night or two in Paynesville or Lakes Entrance near the Gippsland Lakes National Park Day 9: Stop in Orbost, Marlo and Cape Conran to explore the mouth of the Snowy River Day 10: Mallacoota

Potential extension: Continue over the border into NSW and explore the South Coast or on your way back to Melbourne head up to the High Country on the Great Alpine Road from Bairnsdale see #5 below

Read more: Ultimate Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip Itinerary (coastal route)

Lascelles silo art

3. Silo Art Trail in Northwest Victoria

Distance: 870 km loop Recommended time: 4 days

For something a little unique, head up to northwest regional Victoria to explore the Silo Art Trail. This road trip in the Wimmera Mallee region is considered the largest outdoor gallery in Australia, with impressive murals painted on eight different grain silo sites across a number of rural towns. 

The trail now extends from Rupanyup up to Patchewollock and across to Nullawil in North West Victoria (towns I’m sure you’ve never heard of!). It’s been credited with breathing new life into these small rural towns which had otherwise very little appeal to visitors. While it might not have stunning views like other road trips on this list, it does offer an insight into the important grain growing region of the state with hundreds of kilometres of wheat, barley, rye and legumes.

To complete a loop road trip from the city, I recommend heading from Melbourne to Brim, then the next day from Brim to Sea Lake. From Sea Lake, down to Bendigo and then return to Melbourne the following day. It’s the perfect long weekend road trip, if you don’t mind stopping at multiple silo art sites along the way. To find out where to stop on the Silo Art Trail, make sure you read my complete guide below.

Additional side trips: You could easily add a few days in the Grampians National Park to the beginning of this road trip see #7 below, and then add a few days exploring the Goldfields and Macedon Ranges on the way back see #4 below

Read more: Complete Guide to the Silo Art Trail in Northwest Victoria

Bendigo

4. Historic Goldfields Drive – Ballarat and Bendigo

Distance: 400 km loop Recommended time: 3-5 days

An iconic road trip into regional Victoria wouldn’t be complete without including the powerhouse towns of Bendigo and Ballarat. This road trip trip will take you back in time to the 19th century, through the history of the Gold Rush in Victoria.

First stop has to be Ballarat, just 1.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne. Ballarat quickly became a thriving boomtown that had huge wealth and influence in the 1850s. Today, you can still see plenty of remnants of the gold rush, especially at Sovereign Hill. While the streets in the town centre are now home to trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Heading north from Ballarat, you’ll definitely want to stop in Daylesford for a night. The iconic weekend getaway in the Macedon Ranges, Daylesford is known for its quaint streets filled with boutique stores and natural hot springs and spas that has earned it a reputation as the wellness centre of Victoria.

Then, drive through Castlemaine and head to Bendigo, another historic gold town from the 1850s. What was once a thriving city has become a regional hub, with a rich arts and culture focus. The centre still boasts old gold rush era architecture, plus art galleries and gastropubs making it a nice place to spend the night before heading back to Melbourne.

Driving to Hotham

5. Great Alpine Road Trip

Distance: 590 km one way (Melbourne to Wangaratta via Bairnsdale and Bright) Recommended time: 3-4 days

The ultimate mountain road trip in Victoria is the Great Alpine Road, running from Bairnsdale on the Gippsland coast all the way up through the Alpine National Park to Wangaratta in northern Victoria. This windy, steep road is an unforgettable journey through the Victorian Alps and is a great way to approach the towns of Bright and Myrtleford.

If you want to complete the full road trip, then you have to drive out east of Melbourne to Bairnsdale in Gippsland. From there, you can jump onto the Great Alpine Road as it heads north snaking it’s way along the Tambo River to Omeo.

From the historic town of Omeo, you can continue on the Great Alpine Road up to the ski fields of Dinner Plain and Hotham. In summer, this road is spectacular, with some of the best mountain views you’ll get in the state and is fairly quiet most of the time. However, in winter, you’ll have to carry snow chains and pay entry into the resort areas.

From Hotham, the road steeply winds down to the beautiful towns of Harrietville and Bright , before eventually reaching Wangaratta. You could easily do this drive in 2-3 days if you wanted, although I recommend around 4.

From Wangaratta, you’ve got plenty of options to explore the pretty town of Beechworth or the foodie destination of Milawa , before heading back to Melbourne.

To form a loop back to Melbourne: From Wangaratta, head down through Whitfield and the King Valley to Mansfield and back to Melbourne via Black Spur Drive see #6 below

Black Spur Road

6. Black Spur Drive to Lake Eildon and Mount Buller

Distance: 250 km one way (from Melbourne to Mount Buller) Recommended time: 3-4 days

If you want to combine the mountains with good food and wine, then this road trip is unbeatable. Taking you through the Yarra Valley to the top of the Victorian Alps in a short time, it packs a lot of punch in a short 3-4 days.

From Melbourne, drive up to Healesville on Maroondah Highway and then continue on the famous Black Spur Road up to Marysville . The following day, head to Eildon to admire the beautiful view of one of the largest artificial lakes in the state.

Then continue to the regional town of Mansfield, from where you can drive up to Mount Buller. This beautiful, zig zagging drive is stunning in summer, as it takes you through the lush forest on the slopes of Mount Buller, culminating in panoramic views from the top (which requires a shot walk to reach h the actual summit).

Despite the short length of this road trip, there are plenty of things to explore along the way if you have the time. Healesville, Marysville and Mansfield are all worthy places to spend a night to explore a bit more around these pretty towns.

Some guides that might help:

  • 10 Best Walks in the Yarra Ranges National Park
  • Best Lake Mountain Walks to Do This Summer
  • Discovering the Waterfalls on Lady Talbot Drive in Marysville
  • A Guide to Hiking in the Cathedral Ranges State Park
  • Summer Guide to Mount Buller Hikes
  • Local’s Guide to Marysville

This road trip offers a taste of the Victorian High Country, which you could easily extend into the King Valley or further to Wangaratta and Bright.

Road to Halls Gap

7. Melbourne to Grampians National Park

Distance: 335 km one way (Melbourne to Dunkeld and then Halls Gap) Recommended time: 3 days

One of my favourite places in Victoria, a road trip to the Grampians National Park is a must. This road trip is more about the destination than the journey, as I recommend you head straight from Melbourne to Dunkeld in the southern Grampians on the first day.

This gives you enough time to explore the southern Grampians, before driving up to Halls Gap and spending a couple of days there. If you have time, I recommend also driving up to the northern Grampians from Halls Gap and then driving back to the city via Stawell and Ararat.

Exploring the Grampians is all about the walks and waterfalls within the park. Depending on your fitness level and enthusiasm, there’s hikes to do for all different people. Check out my guide to the best walks in the Grampians National Park to find something to suit you.

You can also find some incredible places to stay in Dunkeld and Halls Gap, from caravan parks to secluded eco lodges within nature. Check out my top 10 uniques places to stay in the Grampians .

Read more: Ultimate Travel Guide to the Grampians National Park

Surfing on Phillip Island

8. Port Phillip Bay Loop

Distance: 230 km loop Recommended time: 3 days

This is somewhat of a unique road trip idea on this list, but it’s something that is super easy to do to escape the city without actually going too far. The Port Phillip Bay Loop can be done in either direction, but follows the coast down to Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula, before crossing over on the ferry to Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula and heading up to Geelong and back to the city.

Along the way, there’s plenty of opportunities to go for a surf, walk or swim in the many beautiful beaches. This could easily be done in a day, but I would recommend taking at least a weekend or long weekend so you can stop on the way. Sorrento or Ocean Grove are nice options to spend the night.

Want to Explore More of Victoria?

  • 15 Best Campgrounds in Victoria (Paid Campgrounds)
  • 20 Best Free Camping Spots in Victoria
  • Ultimate 1 Week Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary
  • 10 Best Day Hikes in the Victorian High Country

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Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: A Complete Guide

Australia’s East Coast is one of the most popular places in the world to travel. It spans the length of Queensland and into New South Wales, and features the larger cities of Cairns and Brisbane. With its world class beaches, ancient rainforests, endless adrenaline activities and charming towns, it’s truly a destination like no other. So the main aim of this guide is to equip you with everything you need to know to plan your own Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

I’ve done three road trips along Australia’s East Coast. The first time, I joined an organised tour from Brisbane up to Cairns. It was fast paced and more fun than I could have ever imagined. The second time, I chose to do the journey more slowly in a camper van south from Cairns to Byron Bay. For the third visit, I did an awesome but far shorter one week road trip from Byron Bay to Noosa. So I feel I’ve got really sound experience in devising an East Coast itinerary.

One of the best things about the East Coast of Australia is the sheer variety in things to do. On each East Coast trip, I’ve ended up doing completely different things and each road trip has been equally incredible.

If you’re trying to decide which direction to travel the East Coast, there aren’t really any overarching reasons to go one way and not the other. The biggest factors will be around your plans before and after the East Coast, plus the time you have available. If you are planning to take 6+ weeks, I would suggest perhaps starting in Cairns. Then you could carry on driving south past Brisbane and on towards Sydney and Melbourne.

For the purpose of this blog post, I will share an Australian East Coast road trip itinerary starting in the tropical city of Cairns in the north. From here, the itinerary will weave south past pristine beaches, rugged mountains ranges, waterfalls, tropical rainforest, charming surf towns, some of the world’s best diving spots, as well as the epic K’gari island (also known as Fraser Island).

This guide is aimed at all travellers, with suggestions for both backpackers and those on a slightly larger budget throughout. It can be used for anyone travelling in Australia as it covers all the best things to do along the East Coast.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Essential things to know

Wow, so where to start! Some of the most important things to consider for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary are time of year to visit, vehicle type and budget. So let’s get stuck in!

Mission Beach in Northern Queensland

When is the best time to travel the East Coast of Australia?

First things first – when is the best time of year to plan a road trip for Australia’s East Coast?

As you can see below, Australia is a huge country. You can fit about two thirds of Europe into its land mass. And therefore, the weather across the whole of Australia does vary, especially more so in the Australian winter months (May to September). I’ve summarised this below, but do make sure to check out my detailed Australia climate guide too.

Map of the country for an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, is the largest northernmost town on the East Coast and has hot weather year-round. However, this is divided into two distinct seasons – wet and dry.

During the Australian winter ( May to September ), Cairns experiences warm, dry weather and low crowds .

During the Australian summer ( November to April ), Cairns is hot and humid, with plenty of rain . This tropical monsoonal starts building up in December and by January, the rains are mostly daily and can be torrential.

Although the days can still be hot and sunny, the tropical rains can make diving conditions more challenging, and visibility worse for seeing underwater life. And as Cairns is popular for diving, it could be a real shame to visit and not be able to enjoy this fully.

Another key factor with Cairns and the surrounding area is stinger season. This refers to the presence of tiny stinging box jellyfish in the water. The sting can be extremely painful, and can be fatal in some cases. If you do visit in the months when this is at its worse (Jan to March), you will have to wear stinger suits in the water.

So, where possible, visiting Cairns in the Australian winter means long, sunny days, with minimal rain and no stingers in the water. As mentioned above, conditions for diving in the Great Barrier Reef are optimal with perfect water temperatures and visibility in excess of 50m. It’s also an excellent time to see the magnificent Daintree Rainforest at its best and full of life. Furthermore, the water levels are ideal so white water rafting is an awesome activity to during this time, but can often be too dangerous during the months from January to March.

A stunning sunset over Cairns

From personal experience, I found the weather in Cairns during August/September to be perfect. We were able to experience every activity and as this is the start of spring, there was plenty of colour and life in the plants and trees. Cairns in the month of December was also good, although noticeably hotter and humid. It was early December and we experienced no rainfall, but prices for accommodation were higher. I also got stung by a rogue stinger who had made an early arrival into the waters in the Great Barrier Reef. It was very painful for about 30 minutes, and then the sting subsided.

So to summarise, it depends on the activities you plan to do in Cairns as to when is the best time to visit, but generally the months from May to September are best.

Then, at the southern end of Queensland is Brisbane. It receives some of the most enjoyable and reliable weather in Australia throughout the year. It has a warm-temperate climate, meaning there are few days you’d need a jumper.

As with Cairns, the Australian summer from January to March bring the hottest and most humid weather . During this period is the highest chance of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, although they are mostly in the late afternoon.

The best time to visit Brisbane is April to May and September to November , when temperatures are comfortable and humidity and rainfall are low. However, June through to August is also a great time to go to Brisbane, but the temperatures are slightly cooler.

I found Brisbane in the months of September and December to be really lovely, with long hot, sunny days. However, visiting Brisbane and the surrounding area in February did bring a lot of rain.

Whitsunday Islands Paradise on an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So when should I plan my East Coast road trip?

Overall, visiting Queensland, which spans from Tropical North Queensland to just south of Brisbane, is best avoided from January to March in order to have the best experience for most activities. If you’re embarking on a longer Australia trip, then it might be best to spend these months in New South Wales (Sydney and surrounds) and Victoria (for Melbourne and surrounds), as the weather here is at its peak from January to March. The same goes for visiting the Outback, which is generally best visited from April to October/November.

If your Australia trip is focused purely on the East Coast, with the Cairns to Brisbane road trip being the primary focus, then a trip from May to August would be the best time. This also avoids stinger season completely. It would be slightly cooler in Brisbane, but you would still unlikely need a jumper or a jacket.

If you’re on a longer trip in Australia, then as just mentioned, you could spend December – March exploring Victoria and New South Wales, before then heading to the East Coast from April onwards. Alternatively, you could do the Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary during August, September and/or October, before heading down to Victoria and New South Wales onwards for the better weather during the Australian summer.

Beautiful beaches in Tropical Northern Queensland

How long does it take to travel East Coast Australia?

If you’re short on time, then it can be done in two weeks. This would cover the highlights. If you can spare longer, perhaps 4-6 weeks you’ll have enough time to see and do just about everything, and have some time to relax!

If you have two months or so, then an awesome adventure would be to drive from Cairns to Melbourne which would easily take in some of the very best parts of Australia. You’d traverse through some seriously different climates and experience both the tiniest beach towns as well as the huge, cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne.

Locals in Noosa, Queensland

Should I go for a car or a camper van for my East Coast road trip?

Any road trip in Australia is best with a camper van. The freedom is unparalleled and you can truly travel at your own pace.

With a camper van, you can adjust your itinerary more easily and generally, it offers better value as the camper van doubles up as your accommodation each night. However, a camper van isn’t for everyone as space can be challenging.

The main camper van companies in Australia are:

  • Spaceships Rentals
  • Wicked Campers

Pros and cons of a camper van

  • Can save costs on more expensive hotel or lodging accommodation
  • It can save money on food costs as you have your own stove/kitchen area in the van which is great for easy breakfasts and some dinners
  • Is a good way to split fuel costs between friends if there’s a few of you
  • You can easily stay longer somewhere you like if you don’t need to look for accommodation
  • There are many free campsites, motorway rest stops or areas to park and sleep overnight (check Wikicamping and the state parks’ app/websites )
  • You can sleep and wake up so much closer to nature
  • You don’t need to carry suitcases or bags in and out of hotels
  • In the busiest months, the cost of a camper van can be steep
  • You will spend more on fuel as the vehicle is heavier
  • Making the bed each night can get a little tiring and sand from the beaches gets everywhere
  • You can’t really keep the air-con on overnight without draining the battery, so it gets hot!
  • Also, it’s likely you will lose stuff within the van all the time. There are just way too many cubby holes and spaces for things to fall down
  • There may be some days you go without a shower
  • Can be moments where it’s difficult to park, especially if you visit cities like Brisbane
  • There are many ways to lose money from your deposit with a camper van as there are so many more parts to it to break!

If you really fancy resting your head somewhere a little more comfortable each night, then a car is a great option. You still have a huge amount of freedom, but just slightly less freedom as you do need to find somewhere to sleep each night.

Driving from Cairns to Brisbane in a camper van on an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Pros and cons of hiring a car

  • Lower initial cost for renting a vehicle
  • Also lower petrol costs
  • Easier to park in general
  • You have a boot to keep your suitcase in, and act as an on-the-go wardrobe space
  • Less risk of losing things as the vehicle is way smaller
  • No need to go without showers and guaranteed a slightly more comfortable and cooler sleep every night
  • May save money if hotels, lodges etc include breakfast in the rate
  • Need to find a place to stay each night, which can be expensive and time consuming/stressful in peak season
  • In my option, there’s a slight less feel of ‘adventure’ with a normal hire car, as opposed to a camper van

Drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation

Joining an organised tour or using bus services

I joined an organised tour one year with Topdeck (read all about the trip here ). Generally, I don’t tend to join multi-week tours but it was aimed at students and more than 40 of my friends booked on. So as you can imagine, it was one of the best experiences of my life. I enjoyed some awesome adventures each day, with nearly all meals and activities included, it was excellent value. Except for skydiving, all other activities were already paid for, including bungee jumping, white water rafting and admission to the Australia Zoo.

Organised tours along the East Coast of Australia are very popular, but naturally, they don’t allow for any freedom or adjusting the itinerary at all. However, it can be a great way to meet people and have all logistics taken care of.

Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef

Some great companies include: Contiki , G Adventures , the Oz Experience, Intrepid

Stray also has a great value Cairns to Sydney bus pass, which you can book online here .

Another alternative is to use bus services such as Greyhound or Premier. Both of these companies offer dozens of buses stopping at hundreds of convenient stops across the East Coast every day. Plus, you can book the tickets just the day before and sometimes on the day, which can be really handy. If you don’t fancy driving the East Coast yourself, this is a great way to travel. They also offer hop-on hop-off bus passes which can be great value – for example, Greyhound have a bus pass that covers you for 90 days and starts at around $349.

Greyhound offering the slightly more expensive bus tickets of the two, but the buses are comfortable and offer on board Wi-Fi.

Finally, I wouldn’t recommend planning to do this trip by hitchhiking. It’s not as common as movies might suggest!

Topdeck tour group playing in the water

Eating on the East Coast

Three meals a day, plus snacks and coffees/drinks can add up quickly when travelling in Australia.

Fortunately, BBQ-ing in Australia is every bit as popular as you might imagine. There are gas BBQs all over Australia in parks, by beaches, in national parks and next to boardwalks. They are free to use and really easy to operate, most having utensils to use too. There’s always plenty of table space nearby and it’s one of the most easy ways to assimilate into Australian life, as these are equally popular with locals and tourists.

Supermarkets are really geared up to this, and their meat section sells all kinds of meats in different marinades, making it really easy. Furthermore, they always have a delicatessen section with choose-your-own salad bowls and side dishes. It couldn’t be more easy to pull together an amazing BBQ spread in Australia.

The big supermarket chains are Woolworths and Coles, which have the most competitive pricing and a huge range. In some smaller locations, you might find an IGA or a SPAR which can be a tad more expensive.

When you don’t feel like cooking or don’t have the chance to do a food shop, there are popular fast food chains such as Hungry Jacks and Pie Face, or smoothie chains like Boost. I personally prefer to sample the local food in cafes in town, or a family-owned fish and chip shop instead. There are also plenty of pubs in Australia, which are pretty cheap but the quality can be a bit iffy (like Wetherspoons in the UK).

A popular place for a pub-like meal on a Sunday is the local Surf Life Saving Club, and you’ll see these dotted all along the coastline – particularly in the Gold Coast. Mostly aimed at local members, they nearly all welcome in tourists (with sign-in at the door). It’s a very Australian experience if you like beer, local live musicians and ridiculously big portions of chips, nachos and battered fish!

Then of course there are excellent restaurants all across the East Coast.

Deciding where to stay on the East Coast – hotels, lodges, hostels or camping

Even if you do the road trip along the East Coast in a camper van, there will be some nights where you’ll need to opt for a campsite for its shower facilities.

And there are hundreds of campsites along the East Coast. Some are your traditional pitch and stay camping grounds, and some are huge, expansive holiday resorts. Whilst these are typically aimed at domestic travellers, everyone is welcome and you may be blown away by the facilities.

The best resources for campsites on the East Coast of Australia are:

  • Pitchup (can book directly on this site too)
  • Tourism Australia
  • Camping in Queensland
  • Camping in NSW

The East Coast is also home to hundreds and hundreds of hostels. There are also some hostel chains in Australia, and nearly always one where you’re travelling. The two biggest chains are Nomads and Base. Staying in one of these means a fairly reliable and comfortable experience. The dorms are clean and secure, and the social areas are often amazing. Staying in hostels add to a quintessential Australia experience. I’ve had some brilliant stays and met some awesome people.

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns

However, I prefer now to travel and stay in hotels where possible. On my most recent visit to Australia, we had a hire car and spent our nights in various Airbnbs and hotels along the East Coast. We stayed in some amazing Airbnbs, including a treehouse in the Gold Coast and a Balinese style villa in Noosa.

However, throughout this itinerary I will suggest a couple of options for each destination that cover campsites, hostels and hotels. I’ve managed to stay in all three types nearly everywhere along the East Coast now, so I’ve got some good experience!

Money and Budget

The currency in Australia is the dollar (AUD). Generally across Australia card payments are widely accepted, and contactless is very popular as the limit is $200.

For slightly more remote locations or for any really small villages you visit, I would recommend keeping cash on hand.

In terms of budgeting, prices are approximately the below:

Accommodation:

  • Camping site (tent) – $10-20 per night
  • Camper van spot at campsite – $20 – $50 per night, depending on size and facilities of the campground/holiday resort
  • Double room in a value hotel or holiday resort: $100-140
  • Double room in a 4 or 5 star hotel: $200 – $300 depending on time of year you visit

Food (based on two people):

  • On-the-go coffees: $9
  • Fast food or take away meal: approx $20
  • Local cafe or pub meal: $60
  • 3 Course meal in a good restaurant: $140-200

In terms of alcohol, it’s not sold at supermarkets but instead at bottle shops such as Dan Murphy’s. Prices are a little more than in the UK and the US, but they do sell boxed wine, affectionally called ‘goon’ in Australia. Boxed wine doesn’t taste the best BUT it’s cheap and lasts longer than a bottle!

Activites to do on the East Coast Australia

Excursions and activities are likely to be your greatest expenditure. There are so many bucket list activities on the East Coast that I highly recommend putting budget aside so you can make the most of these. As an indication, here are the approximate prices of several activities:

  • Animal sanctuary entrance fee: approx $40 per adult
  • 15,000 ft sky dive in Cairns: $359 per person (not including video or photos)
  • Entry to Daintree National Park and canopy walk: $35 per adult

As an approximate guide, the AUD to GBP conversion is roughly half. So animal sanctuary entrance is around £20 ($40).

The AUD to USD conversion is about 1.5, so animal sanctuary entrance is around USD $25 (AUD $40).

Finally, fuel in Australia is similar in price to the UK, but more expensive than the USA. Fuel for the whole route could cost around AUD$600-800, or more depending on detours you might take.

Sailing day trip to the Whitsunday Islands

Deciding where to go on your Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So you’ve decided when to embark on your epic road trip, and you’ve got your vehicles or bus pass sorted. Now the fun part – deciding where to go!

If you can’t already tell, I love the East Coast of Australia. It has everything AND warm weather year round.

As mentioned above, I have driven the route in both directions but my favourite was probably the Cairns to Brisbane drive. This would also be considered the most iconic road trip for the East Coast of Australia too. It spans world class beaches, dozens of stunning national parks as well as incredible Great Barrier Reef and the twinkly Whitsunday Islands.

So for the purpose of this blog post, we’ll be starting in Cairns but this itinerary can be modified in any way, and of course started in Sydney, Byron Bay or Brisbane. I also list the minimum to maximum number of days needed in each place to help you plan and decide where to visit.

East Coast Australia Map

The most important thing to remember is that Australia is BIG . The Cairns to Brisbane road trip spans 1,682km (or 1,045 miles), and that’s taking the most direct route without any detours. It’s around 19 hours of driving if you were to go straight through. There are also some seriously long stretches of driving without any major towns or stops too.

One thing you must remember is to fill your car or van with fuel whenever you can. Never leave a town with less than a full tank – I speak from experience!

So without further ado, let’s jump in with our first stop, Cairns!

Suggested time for Cairns: 3-5 days

This tropical city is one of my favourite places in Australia. Although the town is somewhat unassuming, the adventures to be had in and around Cairns are epic!

The relaxed tropical lifestyle in Cairns will ease you in to an Australia road trip, but could also make a relaxing end point too to your road trip.

Cairns could easily be one of the places where you choose to spend longer, but only if your budget allows. There are countless awesome sights to see and places to visit in Cairns , but the tours can add up and makes Cairns quite an expensive stop. That being said, one of the best things to do in Cairns is free – and that’s spending the day at the incredible Esplanade Lagoon in the heart of town.

The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a must visit on an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

Best things to do and see in Cairns

Free or low cost:

  • Cool off and relax in the magnificent Cairns Lagoon
  • Take a road trip to the Daintree Rainforest at Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas
  • Spend the day in the Behana Canyon, a swimming hole surrounded by dense rainforest. Why not join this tour .
  • Eat and drink your way around some of the beautiful waterside restaurant and bars
  • Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Best things to do in Cairns on an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

More expensive but bucket list activities:

  • Join a boat trip to the incredible Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel or learn to dive
  • Take a boat out to the stunning Fitzroy Island
  • Brave the ultimate leap of faith at the AJ Hackett bungee jump centre
  • Go ATV riding in the rainforest
  • Take the train to spend the day at the Kuranda Rainforest Skyway , an awesome journey across the rainforest finishing at the epic Mossman Falls
  • Enjoy a hop on hop off beer and drinks tour of Cairns
  • Join a tour of the Atherton Tablelands , and visit beautiful waterfalls and scenic lakes (including the famous Milla Milla Falls)
  • Enjoy a foodie tour and wine tasting in the Atherton Tablelands
  • Visit the Daintree Rainforest and enjoy Cape Tribulation .

The Kuranda Skyrail from Cairns

Blow-the-budget fun:

  • Book a super special day on the Sunlover Reef pontoon , where you enjoy all the activities at this mini village floating on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Organise a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, a true once in a lifetime experience, or even a scenic flight !
  • Enjoy an epic skydive over Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Overnight stay on the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay in Cairns

In Cairns, there are no free camping options in the city centre, but there are some paid campsites on the edge of town. Make sure to check this guide on camping near Cairns .

And here are my best picks for accommodation in Cairns:

Best luxury stay: Shangri-La at The Marina (£90pn) or the Pullman Reef Casino (from £97pn)

Great value mid-range stay: Pacific Hotel Cairns (from £63pn)

Best hostel: Gilligans Backpacker Resort (dorm from £17pn, private room from £70) has some of the best facilities I have experienced anywhere. It’s a lively party place but does also offer great value if you book out a 4 or 6 bed dorm for your group.

Enjoying Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest

  • Suggested time for the Daintree Rainforest: 1-2 days
  • Driving distance from Cairns to Port Douglas: 68km (1hour) along the Captain Cook Highway
  • Driving distance from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation: 75km (1h30)

This beautiful corner of Australia is home to the Daintree Rainforest, which is the world’s oldest! It is also unique as it the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

Cape Tribulation however is considered one of the most dangerous beaches in the world. This is due to the huge population of crocodiles that reside here, as well as the often-fatal stings from Box Jellyfish in the water.

Whilst driving to Cape Tribulation can easily be done as a full day trip , it’s well worth an overnight stay if you have the time. I would perhaps recommend opting for a small hire car for the day, instead of taking a camper van however. The roads can be narrow and difficult to drive, especially as you get deeper into the rainforest. Note that driving further north from Cape Tribulation towards Cooktown and the Cape York Village requires a 4WD and some previous experience essential as the tracks here are very challenging.

Port Douglas on route is also a beautiful upscale resort town which is definitely worth a stop for a few hours. The beach is beautiful and over four miles long, and its main street is packed with quirky shops and independent cafes and restaurants. If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to check out the beachside markets too.

Port Douglas from Cairns

In terms of activities in the Daintree forest, there are plenty:

  • Soar above the rainforest on a zipline adventure
  • Explore the rainforest from the elevated walkways
  • Take on some of the best hikes, including the Mount Sorrow hike
  • Spot crocodiles on a river cruise on the Daintree River
  • River drift snorkelling near Port Douglas
  • Explore the deserted and untouched beaches, and see where the rainforest meets the reef
  • Visit the Daintree tea plantation
  • Swim in the Mossman Gorge

The Cairns to Port Douglas drive is spectacular, with the road weaving between the rainforest and the azure ocean. The views are stunning. From Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation, the road is often surrounded by the dense, lush rainforest and you have to take a small ferry to cross the Daintree River. I’ve written a complete itinerary guide to driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, so make sure to check this out.

Driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation on an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

In terms of places to stay in Port Douglas or Cape Tribulation, there are some wonderful eco-stays including:

  • Niramaya Villas & Spa (around £450pn)
  • Noah Creek Eco Huts (around £157pn)
  • Thala Beach Nature Resort (around £220pn)

In Port Douglas, there is also the beautiful Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort (from £129 pn) too or the stunning Shantara Resort (from £229 pn).

Alternatively, you can of course join a day trip, such as this one which is a full day exploring the Daintree rainforest, the Mossman Falls and Cape Tribulation . Or this day trip, which includes a stop at Port Douglas and Wildlife Habitat .

Beaches in Cape Tribulation on an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

Mission Beach

  • Suggested time for Mission Beach: 1-2 days
  • Driving distance from Cairns to Mission Beach: 139km (1h50)

Next stop, Mission Beach. In my opinion, the drive from Cairns south is stunning with the Bruce Highway bordered on both sides by sugar cane plantations, followed by banana trees. The first moderate sized town is Innisfail, which I personally don’t think is worth a stop. So I recommend heading straight to Mission Beach. Make sure to look out for cassowaries at the side of the road!

Mission Beach on the East Coast of Australia

Mission Beach is popular with backpackers for its laidback vibes and excellent beaches. What it lacks in obvious activities and sightseeing opportunities, it makes up for in huge stretches of glorious sandy beaches and walking tracks in the rainforest. I’ve only ever stopped at Mission Beach in October and December which is stinger season, so we could not enter the water.

I would recommend a night in Mission Beach, especially as it provides a decent break in the long drive between Cairns and Townsville, which is the next large town (347km, 4hrs). Mission Beach is also right next to Tully’s River, which is home to some of the best white water rafting in Australia.

Book your white water rafting trip to Tully’s River here!

Where to stay in Mission Beach

  • Best luxury stay: Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach (from £100pn)
  • Good value mid-range stay: Mission Reef Resort (from £54 pn)
  • Best hostel: Jackaroo Treehouse (from £30pn)

Townsville & Magnetic Island

  • Suggested time for Townsville: half day (but longer if visiting Magnetic Island)
  • Driving distance from Mission Beach to Townsville: 235km (2h40)

This large town is largely residential and also home to a big Australian military and naval base. I personally don’t think there’s a huge amount to see in Townsville but it is home to my absolute favourite wildlife sanctuary in Australia, which is the Billabong Sanctuary .

Koalas at the Billabong Sanctuary

I cannot recommend stopping at this amazing wildlife sanctuary more! It’s the perfect place to meet a whole host of the most iconic Australian animals, such as the echidna, wombat, koala and kangaroo. Billabong Sanctuary is a really well-run wildlife centre, with lots of opportunities for animal interaction, plus the location itself is beautiful. It’s located 17km south of Townsville, so you could spend the afternoon there as you continue on your road trip south.

Townsville is the starting point for the ferry to Magnetic Island. This slice of paradise is popular with backpackers but a little less frequented by other types of tourists. I haven’t been to Magnetic Island, so I cannot comment from personal experience but I understand it’s super-laidback and full of beautiful, scenic spots. Make sure to book your ferry tickets from Townsville to Magnetic Island in advance here.

If you do choose to spend a night in Townsville, the Oaks Gateway Suites offer great rooms at a good price (£67 pn). Alternatively, there is a BIG4 Holiday Park at Rowes Bay with beachside cabins from £50.

Wildlife on the East Coast of Australia

Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays

  • Suggested time for Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays: 2-5 days
  • Driving distance from Townsville to Airlie Beach: 273km (3h10)

Airlie Beach is the gateway to The Whitsundays, and this stop is a must-do on any East Coast road trip itinerary. Make sure to read my detailed guide to visiting the Whitsunday Islands here .

The town itself is popular with backpackers, although there are few luxury hotels. Those on a slightly tighter budget or tighter time frame can visit The Whitsundays on a full day boat trip.

Airlie Beach

But if you have time, then I highly recommend splurging on a sailing trip around the Whitsundays. You can spend around 2-3 days on living onboard a sailing boat, where you can snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef and visit Whitehaven, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Alternatively, you could stay on one of the Whitsunday Islands for a couple of nights, for the ultimate barefoot paradise experience.

There are some amazing resort hotels in The Whitsunday Islands, with the InterContinental Hayman Island being one of the very best stays.

I’ve done both a sailing trip and a 3 night stay on the islands, and I honestly couldn’t say which I preferred. Both were incredible.

The stunning white sands of Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays

For day sailing trips, you could wait to book this in Airlie Beach, but you risk the boats being full, so I recommend booking a tour in advance. Here are a few excellent suggestions:

  • Whitsundays Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Adventure from Airlie  (£108pp)
  • Half Day Whitsunday & Whitehaven 6-Hour Cruise  £63pp)
  • Whitsundays Ocean Rafting Tour: Snorkel, Walk & Whitehaven  (£85pp)

Sunset in the Whitsundays on an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

For 1 or 2 night sailing trips, you could check the below companies:

  • OzSailWhitsunday s (2 day, 2 night trips) – starts at £208pp
  • Whitsundays Sailing Adventures  (offer a 1 night sailing trip) – starts at £216pp
  • The same company also offers an awesome  3-day, 2-night sailing and diving trip  – starts at £390pp
  • Red Cat Adventures  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
  • Wings Whitsundays Adventure  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
  • ProSail offer 2 or 3 night sailing adventures – starting at £398pp

Exploring the Whitsunday Islands National Park

Back on Airlie Beach, there isn’t a huge amount to do, so if you choose to visit the islands as a day trip, you could spend a relaxing day at the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

But this could be a place to splurge and explore the Whitsundays from a difference perspective entirely. For example, this  1-hour scenic flight over the Whitsundays Island archipelago  looks incredible, or what about a  tandem skydive over the Whitsundays ?

Or you could go all out with a  helicopter trip to the Whitsunday Islands . It even lands on Whitehaven beach – possibly the most incredible day imaginable.

Slightly further inland from Airlie Beach (and slightly more affordable), there are some great hiking routes in the Conway National Park and waterfall swimming at the beautiful Cedar Creek Falls.

Whitehaven beach in the Whitsundays

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

There’s a huge number of places to stay in Airlie Beach, covering every budget. In fact, you can find some seriously nice stays at very good value. Here’s my pick:

  • Base Airlie Beach (dorm from £16 per night, double from £53)
  • Big4 at Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort (camping from £19 per night)
  • Magnums Airlie Beach (from £31 per night)
  • Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach (from £57 per night)
  • Airlie Beach Hotel (from £82 per night)
  • Mirage Whitsundays (from £117 per night)
  • Coral Sea Resort Hotel (from £139 per night)

Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands

Where to stay on the Whitsundays

I’ve written about all the various options in the Whitsundays in more detail, which I recommend you check out.

Fortunately, there’s a good range of tropical island resorts to stay on, with Daydream Island offering excellent value. Rates here start from £150 per night.

One of the most luxurious resorts to stay in in the Whitsunday islands is the InterContinental Hayman Island  (formerly the One&Only). Rates start from around £450 per night.

Staying on a resort in the Whitsundays

Alternatively, some other ultra-lux options include:

  • Beach Club , an opulent hotel on Hamilton Island . Rates start from £397 per night
  • Elysian Retreat  can only host 20 people at any time, and is the ultimate in barefoot luxury with all stays on all-inclusive basis. Rates start at £630 per night.
  • Or, the exceptional Paradise Cove Resort. I recommend this excellent boat tour and 2 nights all inclusive in a secluded villa  at the island resort. (£311 per person)

Capricorn Caves

  • Suggested time for the Capricorn Caves: 1/2 day
  • Driving distance from Airlie Beach to the Capricorn Caves: 460km (5hrs)

The stretch south from Airlie Beach is a long one – I think the second longest stretch of driving on this road trip. Optional stops before the Capricorn Caves include Mackay, a small quiet town with some lovely cycling and hiking, but no essential bucket list adventures. After Mackay, the next potential stop point would be Rockhampton, where (without exaggerating) there is nothing to do.

I recommend breaking up the long drive from Airlie Beach to the next key stop (Hervey Bay/K’gari Island) with a visit to the Capricorn Caves. These are fairly near to Rockhampton, so depending on the time you arrive in this area, you may want to consider an overnight stay near Rockhampton or a little further south at Gladstone (137km/1hr41).

The Capricorn Caves are called this because they are located on the Tropic of Capricorn. They are an awesome complex of caves, with over 1.5km of passages to explore. They only way to visit is on a tour, often called the ‘Cathedral Tour’ as they all take in the incredible largest cave, which often holds wedding and special events. The acoustics are incredible and it was like nowhere I’d seen before.

Book a tour to the Capricorn Caves here!

Visiting the Capricorn Caves on an East Coast Australia road trip itinerary

Taking around one hour in total, it’s well worth a visit and is often missed of travellers’ East Coast itineraries.

Suggestions for affordable places to stay around this area:

  • Mackay: Central Tourist Park (£41 per night)
  • Rockhampton: Denison Boutique Hote l (£54 per night)
  • Capricorn Caves: Capricorn Motel (£65 per night)
  • Gladstone: Barney Beach Accommodation (£50 per night)

Rainbow Beach

  • Suggested time for Rainbow Beach and K’gari Island: ideally 3-4 days
  • Driving distance from Rockhampton/theCapricorn Caves to Rainbow Beach: 601km (6hrs40)

From the Rockhampton area onwards, there are a few stops to consider including Agnes Water/1770 and Bundaberg. The latter is famous for its rum, and visiting the Bundaberg Distillery makes for a brilliant stop. Make sure to book a tour to the local brewery too!

The town of 1770, sometimes written as Seventeen Seventy, is the second spot in Australia that James Cook and his crew landed in the year 1770. We did stop here and I was fairly disappointed with the lack of things to do and see, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend visiting.

So unless you make a brief stop at Bundaberg, I recommend driving straight through to the Rainbow Beach area. It’s a long old drive, that’s for sure! Looking back, that was why we stopped at 1770 – to break it up!

Rainbow Beach is located in the Great Sandy National Park and is a tiny backpacker town, surrounded by huge, towering sand dunes. The town is mostly a starting point for Fraser Island tours, but you can definitely spend a relaxing day here too.

One of my favourite things to do in Rainbow Beach is climb the huge Carlo Sand Blow and admire the spectacular views across the ocean. The Great Sandy National Park is well worth exploring too – you can even do this on horseback !

The Carlo Sand Blow near Rainbow Beach

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

There are quite a few places to stay in Rainbow Beach, many of which offer great value stays. Here are my suggestions:

  • Freedom Hostels (formerly Dingos) – from £26 per night
  • Pippie’s Beach House – from £77 per night
  • Rainbow Ocean Palms Resort – from £110 per night

K’gari Island

K’gari Island, previously referred to as Fraser Island, is one of the most popular things to do in Australia. Most tours here are typically aimed at a young backpacking crowd and last 2 days/1night or 3 days/2 nights. There are several other options, including day trips too but as the world’s largest sand island, there’s something special about staying overnight if you can. Unless you have a 4WD drive and significant experience driving on sand, you won’t be able to take your own car to K’gari Island. Several tours however let tourists drive the company’s 4WD vehicles though on what they call a ‘tag along’ basis .

If you book an overnight K’gari Island tour you will have a briefing the evening before departure at 6pm, so you’ll always need to stay the night before in Rainbow Beach. You may also want another night in the town once you come back from K’gari so you don’t have to rush straight off. However it’s worth nothing that you can also start a K’gari Island from trip from Noosa or Hervey, if you prefer.

K’gari Island is a bucket list activity in Australia and for good reason. For many people, K’gari Island is the highlight of their Australia trip!

Exploring Fraser Island on a full day tour

You definitely should book your K’gari Island tour in advance. Do not leave it for on arrival in Rainbow Beach/Hervey Bay/Noosa, unless you’re arriving several days in advance (at least).

These are the best K’gari Island tours:

  • Full day Fraser Island tour from Rainbow Beach (£125pp)
  • 2 day/1 night tour from Rainbow Beach (£218pp)

Best things to do on Fraser Island

  • If you’re over 21 and on a tag-along tour, you’ll have the opportunity to drive the 4WD along the sand, which is epic
  • Swim in the crystal clear freshwater Lake Mackenzie
  • Bathe in the beautiful Champagne Pools
  • Drift along the natural lazy river at Ely Creek
  • Explore the tropical rainforest
  • Spot dingos (wild dogs) from afar
  • If on an overnight tour, spend the evenings around the campfire drinking and relaxing with new friends
  • Drive along 75 Mile Beach
  • Hike up to Indian Head to spot sharks and stingrays
  • Explore the Maheno shipwreck
  • Hike to Lake Wobby

If you visit Fraser Island on a one day tour from the mainland, you’ll be able to do most of the above, but at a quicker pace.

Driving on the sand in Fraser Island

  • Suggested time for Noosa: 2-4 days (or as long as possible..)
  • Driving distance from Rainbow Beach to Noosa: 117km (1hr37)

Noosa is an absolute must-visit on any East Coast road itinerary and is hands down my favourite place in Australia. Whether you’re a backpacker, on honeymoon, a group of friends or a family, Noosa is the perfect place. The town centre is charming with some brilliant shopping, the beaches are phenomenal and the surrounding scenery is just breathtaking. It’s also the place in Australia where I’ve seen the most koalas in the wild.

Spotting koalas in Noosa Heads National Park

Best things to do in Noosa

  • Explore the magnificent Noosa National Park, which is easily accessed whether on foot from the town centre or if you drive to its entrance and park
  • Beach hopping from Noosa Main Beach to the dog-friendly waters at the Noosa Spit and over in Noosaville too
  • Get surfing or take part in a surf lesson
  • Go on a dolphin-watching safari by kayak , where your chances of seeing dolphins are super high
  • Bar hopping along Main Street
  • Tucking into some of the town’s best food, including the phenomenal Spanish set menu at 10 Hastings Street
  • Kayak through the Noosa Everglades
  • Hike nearby Mt Coolumb
  • Get stuck into the craft beer scene in Noosa
  • Drive to nearby Emundi to go to the popular Farmer’s Market, running Wednesday to Saturday until 1pm or so
  • Go hiking in the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains

Most of Noosa’s main attractions revolve around the beautiful beaches, the National park, the surf and the food. It’s pretty easy to see why I love it so much.

Noosa Main Beach on the East Coast Australia

Where to stay in Noosa

There are some beautiful places to stay in Noosa, covering all budgets and preferences.

Best luxury hotels: There are some amazing hotels in Noosa. Some of top luxury stays would be Noosa Shores (£350), Netanya or the beautiful Sofitel Pacific Resort (from £158 per night). However, there’s also the more affordable Peppers Resort on the beach (from £92 per night) and Tingirana .

Good value stays: My favourite good value spot is 10 Hastings Street Boutique Motel . It also has one of the best restaurants town downstairs! Rates start from about £60 per night.

Best hostels: Nomads Backpackers is the best spot in town. Dorm rooms start at £37, or a double is £44.

  • Suggested time for Brisbane: 1-2 days
  • Driving distance from Noosa to Brisbane: 141km (1hr44)

Queensland’s big city! Brisbane is a modern metropolis, with year-round warm weather and unique city beaches. I like Brisbane, but not even half as much as Melbourne and Sydney.

It’s probably a great city to live in, but visiting for a couple of days at a time, I have never fallen for Brisbane. However, it does have a fantastic manmade city beach at South Bank where I have spent many hours catching the rays.

The city beach in Brisbane's South Bank

I also have to recommend my favourite restaurant in Brisbane, which is New Shanghai located in the Myer Centre on Queen Street. There’s a few of these dotted across Australia, but for me, the Brisbane one is just amazing.

Things to do in Brisbane

Brisbane as a city may not be quite as cosmopolitan and lively as Melbourne and Sydney, but it does happen to make a fantastic base to visit other nearby areas. The winter months are an especially lovely time to visit the city, so make sure to check out this guide to the top things to do in Brisbane in the winter .

For example, if diving is your thing, then there are some impressive shipwrecks at Moreton Island.

You can also visit the famous Australia Zoo near Brisbane , which is of course known for being founded by Steve Irwin himself.

  • Take a boat ride along the river onboard a Kookaburra River Queens Cruise, which are old style paddlewheel vessels
  • Hike a bike to explore the city or join a guided segway tour
  • Spend some time in the city’s magnificent Botanical Gardens
  • Join a guided kayak tour along the river
  • Visit the city’s impressive collection of museums and art galleries
  • Take the river boat to the popular Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on this excellent city tour
  • Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island or visit on snorkelling day tour
  • Take a day trip to the beautiful Stradbroke or Bribie Islands

Best things to do near Brisbane

Where to stay in Brisbane

Best luxury hotel: W Brisbane is the coolest place to stay, with rooms starting from £127 per night. Another great luxury hotel would be The Westin (from £155 per night).

Great value stay: Royal on the Park is a beautiful hotel, and a steal with rooms starting from £53 per night

Best hostel: Bunk Hostel (dorms from £21) or Base Brisbane (dorms from £11)

Where to stay in Brisbane

Cairns to Brisbane road trip itinerary

So there’s my Australia East Coast road itinerary, covering the Cairns to Brisbane drive. As you can see, this route takes in countless iconic Australian experiences. I would say this is easily one of the best road trips in the world.

For international travellers coming to the end of the trip, Brisbane makes a wise finishing point as it has an international airport.

However, for those flying onto Australian domestic destinations or with more time, then I highly recommend continuing your journey. For example, onto the Gold Coast and Byron Bay where there are domestic airports in both destinations. If you have plenty of extra time, you could do the Brisbane to Sydney drive. Although this is another 1000km and 10hrs driving, the beaches are fantastic. However, as mentioned before, the drive from Byron Bay to Sydney would be quite cool if done in the Australia winter (May to August).

Cassowaries on the East Coast Australia road trip

Brisbane to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay

  • Driving distance from Brisbane to the Gold Coast: 99km (1hr10)
  • Suggested time for the Gold Coast: 1-4 days
  • Driving distance from Brisbane to Byron Bay: 166km (1hr50)
  • Suggested time for the Byron Bay: 1-4 days
  • Driving distance between Gold Coast and Byron Bay: 93km (1hr)

Both Gold Coast and Byron Bay are popular holiday destinations with Australians as well as international travellers. And as mentioned, with domestic airports near both locations, you could potentially also finish your road trip itinerary further south of Brisbane. For example, we finished our road trip from Cairns at Ballina Airport, which is just near Byron Bay. This was really convenient as there were rental companies to return you car or camper van.

East Coast road trip itinerary

Gold Coast and Surfer’s Paradise

Gold Coast is a city made up a dozens of smaller beach areas, with expansive stretches of white sand and some of the best surfing in Australia. This whole area is the most popular tourist place in Australia. It’s like visiting a beach resort town in Florida, USA or a resort in Spain. Gold Coast is where young Australians flock to party and have fun every summer, and there are a lot of bars and activities geared towards this. Surfer’s Paradise is at the heart of all the action but I wouldn’t recommend spending long here, unless partying is something you’re keen to do.

The other beach areas surrounding Surfer’s Paradise are amazing, and a great spot to recoup for a couple of days. In fact, the challenge can be deciding which beach to spend the day at.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Alternatively, Gold Coast is packed with all kinds of tourist attractions, including theme parks like Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld . My personal favourite thing to do in Gold Coast is to visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary . This is a brilliant place to spend a full day. Plus, they have their own wildlife hospital with huge glass windows so you can see all kinds of animals being operated on. On the day we went, I saw birds, tortoises and koalas being treated!

Best things to do in Gold Coast

  • Go hiking in nearby Tamborine Mountain or get your adrenaline pumping at the high ropes course
  • Or why not visit Mt Tamborine and stop by the beautiful wineries and distilleries on this tour with lunch
  • Explore Springbrook National Park and swim in the refreshing waterfalls
  • Meet some of Australia’s most unique wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Head to the farmer’s markets at different beaches – my favourite is at Burleigh
  • Rent bikes and cycle from one point to another, for example Burleigh Heads to Mermaid Beach
  • Explore the stunning waterways of Coolangatta
  • Join a surf lesson in Surfer’s Paradise
  • Visit the World-Heritage Listed Lamington National Park and explore the beautiful waterfalls and landscape
  • Check out the incredible views from the Sky Point Observation Deck

Where to stay in the Gold Coast

There is a seriously huge amount of places to stay in the Gold Coast. It’s hard to even know where to start.

If you are looking to get stuck into the nightlife, then you could stay right in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise .

Otherwise, I recommend picking a beachside community for a couple of days such as Burleigh or Coolangatta . Due to the sheer number of hotels and places to stay in the Gold Coast, you can definitely find some good value stays!

Check rates for all hotels, lodges and holiday parks in the Gold Coast here.

Where to stay on the Gold Coast

I’ve stayed in several areas around the Gold Coast, and I particularly love the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort . This resort is beyond stunning, with a huge lagoon beach swimming pool, and access to an amazing health club with golf and tennis.

I could have stayed here for weeks, so I’d say, if there was once place to splurge en route, it would be this resort!

Book your stay at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort here.

Best places to stay on the Gold Coast

There’s a certain magic in the air in Byron Bay that makes so many fall in love with the town. So many travellers arrive for a couple of days, but end up staying for weeks.

The main thing Byron Bay is known for is surfing, but there’s so much going on away from the away from the waves. The town is particularly popular with backpackers who get quickly drawn into Byron Bay’s hippy, bohemian, anything-goes lifestyle. But there’s increasing appeal for honeymooners, families and even those looking for a spot of luxury.

Things to do near Byron Bay

Best things to do in Byron Bay

  • Hit the waves, or take the chance to learn to surf
  • Beach hop – as well as the main beach, visit Clarks Beach, Tallow Beach, Belongil Beach and The Pass
  • Go dolphin-spotting from your kayak
  • Hike to the Cape Byron lighthouse, the most eastern point in Australia
  • Visit one of the many local markets, for example the Byron Bay Artisan Market (every Saturday evening from October to March)
  • Enjoy live music at one of the awesome bars
  • Shop at some the wonderful unique boutique stores
  • Stop for happy hour at some of the excellent cafes
  • Explore the craft beer scene in Byron Bay
  • Experience a scenic hot air balloon journey over Byron Bay
  • Get up and close personal with the elusive platypus a nature walk with a local guide
  • Take a day trip to nearby Nimbin, a small hippie town stuck in the 60s which is famous for its very liberal attitude towards. There’s an iconic bus tour which you can book onto.
  • Dance the night away with local musicians performing on Main Beach
  • Explore the beautiful Nightcap National Park with waterfalls and great hiking routes
  • Go hiking along the trails in the Arakwal National Park, followed by a swim in the ocean
  • Have a delicious dinner at The Roadhouse , just on the edge of town
  • Drive to Byron Bay Farm for day surrounded by farm animals, and for some seriously delicious food

Hiking to the lighthouse in Byron Bay

Where to stay in Byron Bay

Best luxury hotel: Far and away, the most opulent hotel is Elements of Byron Resort & Spa . It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends and honeymooners. Rates start from around £245 per night, per villa.

Other great upscale stays include Atlantic Byron Bay (from £130 per night), Azur Villas (from £142 per night), The Bower Byron Bay (from £151 per night).

Great value stays: Bayhaven Lodge (from £71 per night) or Byron Palms (from £70 per night)

Best hostels: There are plenty of hostels in Byron Bay, as it’s so popular with backpackers and Australians visiting for ‘schoolies week’. There is the Byron Bay YHA , Nomads and Wake Up! all with similar rates for double rooms and dorm rooms (around £33 per night).

Finally, I couldn’t not mention the iconic Arts Factory Lodge . Located just outside of town in a beautiful forested area, this a mammoth campground, lodge and artsy bohemian stay all in one.

We chose to stay here with our camper van which was great – it has a pool, on-site cafes and bars, and even things like didgeridoo lessons! A dorm bed here is around £14 per night, and a double room around £68 per night.

Things to do in Byron Bay

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So that rounds out my super long and very detailed itinerary guide for an East Coast Australia road trip.

I really hope this is useful for you if you’re planning a trip to the beautiful East Coast of Australia. As you can see, there is literally so much to do, particularly on the Cairns to Brisbane stretch. And as I said, you can do the highlights in two weeks, but the longer you have, the more you’ll be able to take in and soak up. Ideally, a month to 6 weeks would be the best for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

If you enjoyed my Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide, then please do consider sharing through one of the below links, that would be amazing. Also, if there’s anything else I can share or answer for you, please do let me know in the comments below.

For further Australia guides, please do check out my other guides:

  • Visiting the Whitsunday Islands
  • Noosa Travel Guide
  • Best day trips from Cairns
  • Cairns to Cape Tribulation road trip
  • Taking the Ghan train from Darwin to Alice Springs

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide is based on multiple visits to Australi a . There was no involvement from any local companies or the tourist board . However icelolly.com arranged two local tours on the East Coast: dolphin watching in Noosa and entry to Currumbin Wildlife Park.

Enjoyed my guide to an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary? Pin it!

You may also enjoy:

Cairns to cape tribulation & the daintree …, best time to visit australia – climate …, exploring the australian outback: darwin to …, best day trips from cairns: 10 activities ….

What an incredible resource! Thank you so much! Do you have something similar for New South Wales and Victoria?

Thank you! Unfortunately no! Although I lived in Victoria, I didn’t travel the state as extensively as Queensland 🙁

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Narooma and Bermagui road trip; lighthouses of South coast NSW

Ultimate Road Trip on the East Coast of Australia (2024)

Embark on an unforgettable road trip along the mesmerising East Coast of Australia, where every stretch of highway unfolds a new chapter of scenic wonders. From the vibrant cityscape of Sydney to the tropical paradise of Cairns, this journey is a kaleidoscope of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Going on a road trip along the East Coast of Australia is truly a remarkable experience. The coastal route unveils breathtaking scenery, adorned with picturesque towns and cities that add a layer of beauty to this unforgettable journey. Each town possesses its charm, making the entire trip a collection of memorable moments. Travelers will find themselves traversing through not just roads but also through the unique characters of charming and adorable towns along the way.

Narooma and Bermagui road trip; lighthouses of South coast NSW

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Ultimate Road Trip on the East Coast of Australia

PIN for later reference - Ultimate Road Trip on East Coast of Australia

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

East Coast Road Trip Route and Important Information

The journey kicks off from the southern region of Victoria, gradually making its way northward towards Queensland. This route spans three distinct states: Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. To enhance the travel experience, I have segmented the road trip into two parts. The first leg stretches from Lakes Entrance to Sydney, while the second leg takes you from Sydney to the tropical destination of Cairns.

Important considerations for your road trip:

  • Vast Distance: Australia’s sheer size makes the road trip from Lakes Entrance to Cairns cover approximately 3400 kilometres.
  • Toll Roads: Be aware of toll roads along the route that may impact travel expenses.
  • Time Zone Changes: Note the time zone differences between Victoria/New South Wales and Queensland as you journey through diverse regions.
  • Highway Conditions: While the highways are well-maintained, the long stretches can become monotonous, so plan for breaks to stay refreshed.
  • Wildlife Caution: Exercise caution regarding kangaroos, especially during dawn and dusk when they are more active.
  • Petrol Stations: Shell and BP petrol stations are conveniently located along the route for fueling up.
  • Mobile Coverage: Enjoy good mobile coverage in all the towns and cities mentioned in this post, ensuring connectivity throughout your journey.
  • Time Investment: To fully explore all the recommended destinations, allocate at least 2 to 3 weeks for the road trip.
  • Optimal Seasons: The ideal time for this road trip is spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is pleasant. Summers (December to February) bring warmth, especially as you head north, while winters (June to August) may limit water activities due to freezing temperatures. For a winter road trip, refer to the provided winter packing list for a comfortable journey.

For fun big things to see on the road trip, read 11 big things to see in NSW .

Section 1 – Lakes Entrance to Sydney

Section one of this road expedition spans from Lakes Entrance to Sydney, covering a distance of approximately 750 kilometres. Travellers have two options: a more inland path and a scenic coastal route. Regardless of the chosen path, both roads are excellently maintained, and a 2WD vehicle is adequate for a smooth and enjoyable drive.

During a previous adventure, my friends and I embarked on a journey from Sydney to Lakes Entrance . In my post, I have meticulously outlined the comprehensive itinerary and documented the associated expenses.

Towns and cities between Lakes Entrance and Sydney

While there are numerous charming coastal towns and cities scattered between Lakes Entrance and Sydney, I have curated a list of the ones I personally explored and found to be particularly enchanting.

For an alternative starting point, consider commencing the road trip from Melbourne. Covering a distance of approximately 320 kilometres (a 4-hour drive) to Lakes Entrance, this route offers a different perspective. Consult my post on things to do in Melbourne for a comprehensive guide to navigating the city before embarking on your journey.

Starting point of the road trip – Lakes Entrance.

Lakes Entrance

Situated in the state of Victoria, Lakes Entrance is a captivating coastal town nestled at the edge of Ninety Mile Beach. Renowned for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, this town offers a scenic blend of natural beauty and biodiversity.

Things to do

  • Griffiths Shell Museum – A small museum with a collection of seashells and preserved marine life. The entry fee to the museum is AUD 9 per person and can be purchased at the entrance.
  • Cunninghame Arm Footbridge – A beautiful footbridge where you can see spectacular sunsets. There is no entry fee to the bridge.
  • Reeve Landing jetty – A relaxing walk by the jetty is a fantastic way to spend an evening.

Sydney to Lakes Entrance

New South Wales

A great place to spot humpback whales during the whale migratory season is Eden, a beautiful coastal town on the Sapphire coast of New South Wales (NSW). It is also known as a humpback highway and has a tale of wild killer whales who hunted with the Yuin people . Eden is a place that is straight out of a fairy tale. It has breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

Distance between Lakes Entrance and Eden – 242 kilometres.

  • Eden Killer Whale Museum – A museum dedicated to killer whales. The entry fee is AUD 12 per person and can be purchased at the entrance. You can also follow the Killer Whale Trail to learn more about how killer whales worked with sailors to catch the humpback whales.
  • Watching sunrise – A great spot to watch sunrises at any beach in Eden.
  • Light-to-Light Walk – A stunning 3-day hike is a light-to-light walk . The walk starts at Boyd’s Tower and ends at Green Cape lighthouse in the Ben Boyd National Park.

Sydney to Lakes Entrance

One of my most favourite places along the coast in NSW is Narooma . Narooma is the most charming city along the East coast, which has very pretty beaches and Narooma name is derived from an aboriginal word that means “clear blue waters”.

Distance between Eden and Narooma – 134 kilometres.

  • Horse Head Rock – A very unique rock formation in the shape of a horse head. There is no entrance fee to see the rock.
  • Australia Rock – There is a rock formation that is in the shape of Australia map. There is no entrance fee to see the rock.
  • Swimming with seals – Narooma is a great place to see and swim with wild seals . It is one of those most beautiful experiences where one can interact with the beautiful seals.
  • Read my detailed post about Narooma and Bermagui here .

Narooma and Bermagui road trip; lighthouses of South coast NSW

Batemans Bay

Batemans Bay is a popular spot for kayaking and snorkeling. The beaches are part of the Batemans Bay Snorkeling Trail, a 12 kilometres snorkeling trail between Batemans Bay and Maloneys Beach.

Distance between Narooma and Batemans Bay – 70 kilometres.

  • Mogo Wildlife Park – This wildlife park has a wide variety of unique animals including the smallest monkey in the World. The entrance fee is AUD 38 per adult and the tickets can be purchased on their website .
  • Walk along the beach .
  • Snorkeling – As I mentioned above, Batemans Bay is part of Batemans Bay Snorkeling Trail.

Corymbia Batemans Bay is one of the best NSW beach resorts and you could look up staying at one of these to get spectacular views of the ocean.

Huskisson is a coastal town on the shores of Jervis Bay. Known for its white sand beaches with pristine blue waters, Huskisson is favourites among the locals.

Distance between Batemans Bay and Huskisson – 108 kilometres.

  • Hyams beach – Watch the amazing moon rise at this white sand beach.
  • Point perpendicular lighthouse – Located on the Beecroft Peninsula, this lighthouse was first lit in the year 1899. There is no entrance fee.
  • Scuba diving – Jervis Bay is amazing for scuba diving with very beautiful dive sites.

Diving at the Docks, Jervis Bay

Nowra is a cute little town which is known for its beautiful buildings and graffiti. And this town is a quiet town when compared to all other towns.

Distance between Huskisson and Nowra – 24 kilometres.

Honestly speaking, Nowra is a small town and does not have much to do. I had done a separate road trip to Nowra, Huskisson and Fitzroy Falls .

  • Street art – Soak in the amazing and huge street art around the town.
  • Old buildings – Visit the old buildings.

I also suggest trying the authentic Kerala cuisine (from India) at Adithya Kerala Restaurant . Note: The food is pricey.

Berry is a beautiful village in the Shoalhaven region. This village is definitely a favorite to the Sydneysiders as it makes a perfect one day trip over the weekend.

Distance between Nowra and Berry – 19 kilometres.

  • Donuts – Tasting the amazing donuts is a must in Berry.
  • Cafes and restaurants – Berry has a street of cafes and restaurants which are beautiful.

Famous for its blowhole, Kiama is a famous coastal town for Sydneysiders as it provides a perfect one day getaway on a nice sunny day. The town as quaint cafes and restaurants.

Distance between Berry and Kiama – 24 kilometres.

  • Kiama blowhole – The blowhole is where the sea water rushes through the gaps between the cliffs and makes a huge noise. There is no entrance fee.
  • Kiama lighthouse – A great spot to have a picnic or watch the sunset. There is no entrance fee.
  • Memorial arch – An arch in recognition of all those who sacrificed in the Great War between 1914 and 1918.
  • Be careful while visiting this place as there are too many rocks and it can be dangerous with the waves.

Kiama coastline

Wollongong , adorably known as the Gongs, is a coastal city in NSW. Famous for its surfing beaches and rocky cliffs, Wollongong is an awesome place to spend a weekend.

Distance between Kiama and Wollongong – 36 kilometres.

  • Lighthouses – There are two lighthouses at Wollongong which are gorgeous. There is no entrance fee.
  • Nan Tien Temple – A Buddhist temple that also offers retreats.
  • Sea Cliff Bridge – A famous touristy spot is the Sea Cliff bridge .
  • If you love visiting Hindu temples, then visit Helensburgh temple in the Royal National Park.

Wollongong

Part 2 – Sydney to Cairns

Part 2 of the road trip is from Sydney to Cairns.

  • The distance covered is around 2700 kilometres.
  • The roads are very well maintained and a 2WD is sufficient for the drive.

Towns and cities between Sydney and Cairns

Sydney is one of the largest cities in Australia and is the capital city of NSW. Very famous for its Opera house, this city happens to be my home in Australia. For a detailed guide on Sydney, read my post Travel guide to Sydney .

Distance between Wollongong and Sydney – 95 kilometres.

There are plenty of things to do in Sydney. One needs at least a week to just see the Central Business District (CBD) .

  • Sydney Opera House – Visiting Sydney is incomplete without seeing the Sydney Opera House.
  • Bondi and Manly beaches – The two famous touristy beaches with lovely views of the ocean.
  • Coastal walks – Sydney is blessed with charming coastal walks .

Sydney Opera House

Newcastle is a harbour city with a lot of beaches. It is the second most populated cities in NSW. It is one of my favourite cities in NSW.

Distance between Sydney and Newcastle – 170 kilometres.

  • Beaches – It has quite a few beaches like Nobbys and Newcastle beaches.
  • Fort Scratchley – A historical site in Newcastle.

Newcastle beach

Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is special to me as it was one of the initial destinations I traveled to solo in Australia. It is a coastal town at the mouth of the Hastings River. An excellent destination for surfing and fishing.

Distance between Newcastle and Port Macquarie – 244 kilometres.

  • Tracking Point lighthouse – An amazing lighthouse that gives great views of the ocean. Also, a great spot to see whales and dolphins.
  • Surfing – The beaches are spectacular for surfing.

Sunset at Port Macquarie

Coffs Harbour

Known for its Big Banana, Coffs Harbour is a city in the north coast of NSW. It is a great destination for family holidays.

Distance between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour – 153 kilometres.

  • The Big Banana – The Big Banana is one of the big structures that you can see in Australia.
  • Whale watching – Coffs Harbour is a great location to spot whales during the whale migratory season.
  • Dolphin Magic Marine Park – A place where you can get kissed by a dolphin and a seal.
  • Butterfly Park – This park is amazing where you can see so many types of butterflies.

Coffs Harbour

A very vibrant town with lots of travelers and backpackers is Byron Bay. It is known for surfing and has one of the best dive sites in Australia.

Distance between Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay – 234 kilometres.

If you are short on time and have only one day at Byron Bay, then read my post one day in Byron Bay .

  • Scuba diving – Julian Rocks dive site is one of the most famous dive sites in Australia. It has turtle nurseries and because of which there are higher chances of seeing turtles while diving.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse – The most eastern point of Australia is where the Cape Byron lighthouse is located.
  • Walks – There are plenty of coastal walks one can do in Byron Bay.
  • Street art – There is so much of street art on the streets of Byron Bay. Definitely spend sometime walking around the town.
  • For a complete guide to Byron Bay, read my post travel guide to Byron Bay .

Street art at Byron Bay

  • Note: The timezone changes from Byron Bay to Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast is a coastal city in the state of Queensland. It is known for theme parks and is also a party city. The city is also famous for its sandy beaches and surfing spots.

Distance between Byron Bay and Gold Coast – 94 kilometres.

For stay at Gold Coast, I definitely suggest staying at Monte Carlo Serviced apartment . The views from the balcony are amazing and the place is situated at a very convenient location.

  • Warner Bros. Movie World.
  • Dreamworld.
  • Wet n Wild.
  • Ripley’s believe it or not.
  • Night life – Gold Coast is the most famous destination among Aussies for nightlife. The party life is absolutely amazing.
  • Ride in Quack boat – The Quack boat is a one hour bus/ boat ride. The bus actually turns into a boat in the water. The ticket for the ride can be purchased at one of the tourist shops in Gold Coast and the cost is AUD 38 per person.
  • Surfers Paradise Observation Deck – I have been to plenty of observation decks till date during my travels but I have never seen anything like the Surfers Paradise one. The views from the Surfers Paradise Observation Deck are mind blowing and totally worth the visit.
  • Read 7 things to do in Gold Coast for more details.

Surfers Paradise Observation Deck at Gold Coast

Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland and is one of the major cities in Australia. It is slowly becoming a very popular destination for locals to live and many argue that Brisbane is a better city to live in when compared to Sydney and Melbourne.

Distance between Gold Coast and Brisbane – 79 kilometres.

Brisbane, as a city offers plenty of things to do. However, some of the things that I did and visited are:

  • Brisbane city botanical gardens .
  • Museum of Brisbane .
  • The Wheel of Brisbane .

I also visited the Stradbroke Island for one day when I was in Brisbane.

Hervey Bay is the whale watching capital of Australia. It is a great place for observing the humpback whales during the whale migratory season.

Distance between Brisbane and Hervey Bay – 286 kilometres.

  • As I mentioned already, one cannot miss observing the whales in Hervey Bay.
  • Hervey Bay is the gateway to the Fraser Island .

Airlie Beach

Airlie beach is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands . The Whitsunday islands are a collection of around 74 islands. It lies between the central coast of Queensland, Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in Australia with some of the really luxurious island resorts.

Distance between Hervey Bay and Airlie Beach – 863 kilometres.

  • Scenic flight to see Heart Reef – The view of the Heart Reef is amazing and breathtaking. Heart Reef is a natural reef in the shape of a heart. One can only take a seaplane or a helicopter to go view this amazing natural wonder.
  • Whitehaven Beach – One of the top five spectacular beaches is Whitehaven beach. This is a protected 7 kilometres stretch that is famous for its blue crystal clear waters with white sand.
  • Sailing on Whitsundays – The trip to Whitsundays is not complete without sailing over the Whitsundays. A sailing experience – definitely a must-do!
  • Snorkeling – There are options to snorkel in the Whitsunday Islands. However, I wouldn’t recommend snorkeling in the Whitsunday Islands. But one can always enjoy the warm waters and go for a swim.

Whitsundays Islands

Townsville is a coastal city in the state of Queensland in Australia. Popular for its beaches and the reef from the Great Barrier Reef, Townsville is a very beautiful city to visit in Queensland.

Distance between Airlie Beach and Townsville – 272 kilometres.

  • Maritime museum – Visit the maritime museum in Townsville. The ticket can be purchased at the entrance.
  • Magnetic Island – Offshore from the city, Magnetic Island is an island with coral reefs and a national park full of wildlife. The Magnetic island is famous for its coral reefs and marine life. Ferries run very frequently between Townsville and Magnetic Island.

Cairns is the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef (GBR). It is a laid back city in Queensland. And is best enjoyed outdoors. The city plays a huge role in Australia’s tourism economy and is one of the most popular destinations for all tourists.

Distance between Townsville and Cairns – 347 kilometres & Ending point of the road trip – Cairns.

  • Scuba diving/ Snorkeling – Number one thing to do when in Cairns is to scuba dive or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef .
  • Daintree Rain Forest – The Daintree Rain Forest is the largest tropical rain forest in Australia and is around 1200 square kilometres. Visiting one of the oldest rain forests in the World is an amazing experience.
  • Port Douglas – The town is about 1-hour drive from Cairns and for scuba diving in Great Barrier Reef, I would definitely consider Port Douglas rather than Cairns.
  • Green or Fitzroy Island – There are daily day trips that run to both Green and Fitzroy Islands. Spending a day at these islands are an awesome way to get a taste of some more of Great Barrier Reef.

Scuba diving at Port Douglas

Safety for solo female travelers

Australia is very safe for solo female travelers. I have traveled to most of these places solo and have never had any issues whatsoever. However, like any other place in the World, be cautious and know your surroundings, especially at nights.

Narooma and Bermagui road trip; lighthouses of South coast NSW

Closing Notes

The road trip from Lakes Entrance to Cairns is one of the most epic adventures one can have along the east coast of Australia. If not at one go, I would recommend at least doing these in bits and pieces and visiting the astonishing towns and cities along the way.

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Ultimate Road Trip on the East Coast of Australia (2024)

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Getaway weekend in your future? Try this 5 iconic road trips along the East Coast

east coast victoria road trip

Planning your next adventure doesn't have to involve booking a flight.

Instead, gas up the car and take the family on a road trip.

According to Wealth of Geeks , a website that publishes content about money and pop culture, road trips offer families an exciting adventure that includes an inexpensive way to vacation.

Additional factors like exploring new places with scenic views, stunning coasts, epic mountains, music and bourbon trails determine placement on the list of the most iconic road trips in every state .

And these iconic road trips from the tri-state area like New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and neighboring states such as Delaware and Connecticut offer enormous thrills that will inspire your next holiday.

More: Here are 20 day trips you can take with the family around NJ

Here are the towns:

Connecticut: Lisbon to North Woodstock

This 32-mile road trip has a National Scenic Byway State Route 169 is perfect for a day trip or staycation. Leave the crowds behind and explore small, quaint New England towns and countryside. Particularly beautiful in the fall, explore The Quinebaug and Shetucket River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Mashamoquet Brook State Park, and historical museums in Canterbury, Brooklyn, and Woodstock, says WealthofGeeks.

Delaware: New Castle to Fenwick Island

Explore the entire length of the state on this 100-mile road trip. In New Castle, hop on the Bayshore Byway, a scenic two-lane road that hugs the Delaware River and Bay. Stop in historic Dover and explore the tranquil small towns far away from the interstate. At the end of the byway, take Highway One to beloved shore towns Rehoboth, Dewey, and Bethany Beach, says WealthofGeeks.

New Jersey: Englewood Cliffs to the Delaware Water Gap

The Garden State has a wide range of destinations filled with natural beauty. While traveling I-80, this 75-mile road trip hugs the Manhattan Skyline views in Englewood Cliffs. Stop at Paterson State Falls National Historical Park to see the 77-ft. waterfall that Alexander Hamilton used to launch the country’s first industrial city. Enjoy a relaxing and quiet getaway at one of the many Bed and Breakfasts in Sussex County, says WealthofGreeks.

New York: Albany to Niagara Falls

Take a week-long road trip covering the length of the Empire State along I-90 West on this 303-mile road trip. Start in the state capital to experience America's Main Street before visiting quaint towns and farms on your way to Syracuse. It's a large city and college town in one chock full of museums, shops, amusement parks, and a zoo. Next up is family-friendly Rochester with The Strong National Museum of Play and boat rides on the Erie Canal. Continue your road trip by driving along Lake Ontario to witness where the lake meets the Niagara River. Enjoy a day exploring Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, says WealthofGreeks.

Pennsylvania: Jim Thorpe to Milford

For over 100 years, the Pocono Mountains have attracted visitors to their quiet beauty and outdoor adventures. The small towns along Route 209 are known for their seasonal celebrations, historical sites, and family-friendly activities. This 137-mile road trip starts in Jim Thorpe, dubbed America’s Switzerland for its international architecture. Whether you’re an advanced hiker, train fanatic, biker, or white water rafter, it's a great place to kick off your vacation. Next, enjoy Stroudsburg’s downtown as you make your way to The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area. This 70,000-acre park offers endless outdoor adventures and stunning views of the Delaware River Valley. Dingman’s Falls, right off US-209, is a must-do stop even if you’re short on time. End in Milford to tour their historical sites and Raymondskill Falls, the largest waterfall in the state, says WealthofGreeks.

Family Travel Magazine

7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

T he Northeast is the perfect region for a road trip. Filled with diverse cities and towns, the East Coast offers ski resorts, beaches, attractions, history, and so much more.

Road trips can be a great way to be more impulsive in your travel because you aren’t going to be bound by flight reservations. They can also be a wonderful way to save money on your vacation. When road-tripping, you don’t have to pay for airline tickets or rent a car.

If you are thinking of road tripping, and are looking for some inspiration, here are 7 East Coast road trip ideas. I’ve selected specific start and end points for demonstration, but keep in mind that you can adjust these trips based on where you live and where you want to end up. If you are looking for an epic East Coast road trip itinerary, you may consider combining some of these road trips along the East Coast to make a longer trip.

Here are some tips for long road trips if you plan to be in your car for a while.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. All opinions are my own. We may have been hosted at one or more of these destinations but all opinions are my own.

7 of the Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Canada – boston road trip.

I have so many fond memories of traveling to Canada each summer from my home in Rhode Island. If you live in the Northeast , there are several great Canadian destinations to visit, including Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec City .

Our favorite road trip to Canada is from Boston to Quebec City. There are two main routes to take, and to see more sites, you may want to take one route on the way there, and one route on the way back.

The first route takes about 7 hours and goes through the White Mountains National Forest . We typically try to stay overnight part of the way through that trip – usually stopping in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Our pick in Lincoln, NH is the Mountain Club on Loon

  • Great location
  • Nice family rooms
  • Indoor and outdoor pools

The second route takes about an extra half hour and goes through Maine, including the southern coast of Maine. Although it isn’t halfway, you may consider staying in Portland, Maine . There’s so much to do, including some fantastic restaurants and great shops.

Our pick in Portland Maine is the Press Hotel

  • Fantastic theme with some great fun touches
  • Member of the Autograph Collection

If you’d rather visit Montreal, you’ll travel through both New Hampshire and Vermont. A good stopping point is right on the NH/Vermont border, near Hanover, NH. That trip, from Boston to Montreal, takes a little over 5 hours. It can definitely be done in a day, but it’s also nice to stop over in New Hampshire/Vermont on your way.

See hotels in Montreal

See hotels in Hanover, NH

New England Road Trip

You could easily explore much of what New England has to offer with a road trip. For this type of trip, you’ll want to start and end at the same point. There are so many scenic drives as well as historic sites in the area.

During your trip, you may want to visit the following places:

  • Rockport, MA
  • Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
  • Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor
  • Lincoln, NH
  • Cape Cod, MA
  • North Conway, NH
  • Portland, Maine
  • New Haven, CT
  • Newport, RI

A few years ago, we did a culinary road trip from Portland, Maine to New Haven, CT. This trip was a great way to sample some delicious food and see some fabulous museums. Make sure you do research in advance to figure out which attractions you definitely want to see on this type of trip.

If you aren’t from the New England area, I’d recommend starting and ending your trip in Boston. It’s a good central location, and that’s the largest of the airports in the area. Getting a flight to Boston from most larger United States airports is pretty easy.

Northeast – Florida Road Trip

When I was a kid, my family road-tripped from our home in Rhode Island down to the Orlando area in Florida several times. This journey, which takes about 24 hours, can seem very long. But there are also some great places to stop along the way.

To break things up, you’ll want to have several drivers or stop at least overnight. You can also make several stops, seeing varying sites along the way.

For much of this trip, you’ll be traveling down I-95. Ideas for stops include:

  • New York City
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Washington DC
  • Richmond, Virginia
  • Fayetteville, North Carolina
  • Savannah, Georgia
  • Jacksonville, Florida
  • Daytona Beach, Florida
  • St. Augustine, Florida (the oldest city in the United States)

Other popular spots, like Bethany Beach Delaware, and Charleston South Carolina, would be detours of the route. But if they are must-dos, definitely built some time for those side trips.

Typically, we would do this type of road trip to visit Walt Disney World. However, you could definitely go beyond that, and visit the Southernmost point of the United States, all the way in the Florida Keys at Key West. Just keep in mind that you will likely need to make several overnight stops. Those are best reserved in advance for the best availability.

Northeast – Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular summer destination. If you are thinking of traveling there, a road trip from the Northeast can be a great option. Overall, the trip will take about 12 hours (depending on where you depart from), and there are several stops you can make along the way.

  • New York City, NY
  • Norfolk, Virginia
  • Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston-Washington DC Road Trip

A few years ago, we drove from our home in the Boston area to Washington DC. This trip takes about 8 to 8 ½ hours if you drive straight through. However, if you are trying to make it more of a journey, there are several East Coast road trip stops you can make along the way.

  • Hartford, Connecticut
  • New Haven, Connecticut

During our trip, we decided to leave after school on the last day before spring break. So, we drive in the evening until we reached Greenwich, CT. We stayed overnight there and then continued on to DC. On our way back, we wanted to get home, so we drove the whole way back straight through.

If you want to stop at multiple cities for a longer stay, I’d recommend stopping in NYC and Philadelphia. These two large US cities offer so many attractions and historical sites that they are great for a family vacation.

Our pick in Philadelphia is the Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia City Center

  • Fun boutique hotel
  • Unique rooms
  • Fantastic location

Boston-NYC Road Trip

It’s a short trip, but there are tons to see on the journey from Boston to New York City. It’s a bit longer, but if you are looking to see a few places along the way, I’d recommend taking Route 95. This trip will take you through Rhode Island and the coast of Connecticut.

On your trip, you can stop in Mystic, Connecticut, and New Haven, Connecticut to visit their attractions and eat the delicious local food (don’t miss trying the iconic New Haven pizza).

You can easily do this trip in one day. If you do choose to do that, I’d recommend picking one attraction in Mystic to visit. With younger kids, the Mystic Aquarium is probably the best choice. It’s one of my favorite aquariums and is usually a big hit with kids.

Revolutionary War/Hamilton Road Trip

The East Coast is home to so many US history sites that you could easily plan a road trip right around those sites. One idea is a Hamilton road trip, which will take you to many of the sites mentioned in Hamilton: An American Musical.

For this road trip, I’d recommend the following stops. This itinerary starts in the south and moves north, but of course, you could do it in the opposite direction.

  • Yorktown Battlefield Virginia (Mentioned in the song Yorktown (the World Turned Upside Down)
  • Monticello (Mentioned in the song What Did I Miss?) – Charlottesville, VA)
  • James Madison’s Montpelier (not explicitly mentioned in the musical, but Madison is a main character in the second act)
  • George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Mentioned in Right Hand Man and Stay Alive)
  • Washington Monument/Thomas Jefferson Memorial (Washington Monument mentioned in Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story)
  • The Bureau of Engraving and Printing
  • Weehawken, NJ (Mentioned in My Obedient Servant)
  • Richard Rodgers Theater, NYC

The post 7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

The Northeast is the perfect region for a road trip. Filled with diverse cities and towns, the East Coast offers ski resorts, beaches, attractions, history, and so much more. Road trips can be a great way to be more impulsive in your travel because you aren’t going to be bound by flight reservations. They can …

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Maybe you want to see the driving time instead? Or if you're driving a long distance, you might want to check the midpoint of your trip to find a hotel.

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Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!)

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!)

Dotted with charming fishing towns and ruggedly beautiful beaches, the Oregon Coast is one of the best places in the USA to take a road trip. We’ve put together a detailed guide filled with things to do, where to eat, and driving times so you can plan the perfect Oregon Coast road trip itinerary. We even have a free map just for you!

Oregon Coast Road Trip | Two Wandering Soles

With 363 miles of coastline, it should come as no surprise that one of the quintessential things to do in Oregon is to take a road trip on the coast. The iconic Highway 101 hugs the shoreline and quaint fishing towns dot the ocean’s edge.

Some of my fondest memories as a kid were traveling on a classic West Coast road trip through Washington, Oregon and California with my family. And as an adult, I’ve got Ben hooked on this region too. In a span of just a few years, we’ve taken two Oregon coast road trips, and they sure as hell won’t be our last!

Oregon Coast Road Trip

The Oregon coast is full of cute fishing towns, amazing fresh seafood, driftwood-strewn beaches, winding roads with epic viewpoints, and picturesque picnic spots. The only other place we know of like this in the world is the South African Garden Route . 

There’s so much to do and see that it can be a little overwhelming to figure out where to start and what stops to make along the way.

We’re going over all the top places to see on an Oregon coast road trip to help you plan the perfect route, no matter how much (or how little!) time you have.

Oregon Coast

We’re sharing our honest opinions of some of the most popular coastal towns in Oregon so we can help you decide which ones to put on your road trip itinerary and which ones to skip. Spoiler Alert: Some of the most popular towns are ones we’d give a miss!

This detailed guide has everything you’ll need to plan the perfect Oregon coast road trip!

Whether you’re traveling around Oregon for the first time or you’ve lived in the state all your life, there are sure to be some tips in this article for everyone!

In this article you’ll find:

We’re sharing the best stops along the Oregon coast, from north to south. Some stops are towns while others are state parks or landmarks.

We’ll describe what makes each place unique, as well as our honest opinion of whether it’s worth the stop.

We’ve got all sorts of tips on what to do and where to eat.

Between each destination, we have the driving time listed so you can plan your route accordingly.

Near the bottom of this article, we have some sample Oregon coast itineraries with different amounts of time so the hard work is done for you!

Note: We’ve included plenty of tips for vanlife travelers in this article. If you’re curious about vanlife and want to test it out, here are some resources that will be super helpful:

  • This guide to the best campervan rental companies in the US includes exclusive discounts for our readers.
  • If you’re starting your trip in Portland, this guide details the best campervan rentals in Portland specifically.

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Tips & Things to Know about the Oregon Coast

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Surfer+Oswald+West+State+Park

First things first, we have some important advice to share with you before you hop in your car and head to the coast.

There are some common mistakes people make, and we want you to be prepared!

The weather can change drastically. It’s not uncommon for it to shift from fog and wind to cloudless sunny skies to rain all in one day.

Don’t plan on your trip being filled with sun-soaked beach days. (You may want to go to southern California for that!) But if you get a beautiful sunny day or two, stop everything and rejoice because you’re lucky!

Understand the Marine Layer. If you’re not already familiar, this phenomenon occurs in many coastal areas and makes for thick fog, cooler temperatures, and overall gloomy conditions. (See the picture below!) Sometimes it can last all day, while other times the sun will burn it off mid-morning and you’ll be rewarded with blue skies. Even if the marine layer is thick, you can often head inland just a bit and find very different weather, blue skies and all!

See how thick the marine layer can get?! The ocean is just in front of these surfers, but you can’t see the water!

See how thick the marine layer can get?! The ocean is just in front of these surfers, but you can’t see the water!

Put on sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy. Don’t be deceived, you can get burned through the marine layer (and also through clouds!).

Cell service can be spotty. 

Insider Tip: Download offline version of Google Maps and AllTrails because there will likely be times when you’re without service on the Oregon coast. 

Seafood lovers will be in heaven! Plan to eat as much fresh fish, oysters, crab, and clams as you can while on the coast.

Mo’s Seafood & Chowder is a staple chain that you’ll see all over the coast, but the original location is in Newport.

Psst! This article is packed full of food suggestions, so be sure to take notes!

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Clam+Chowder

Good hotels book up well in advance, especially in the summertime and even more so on the weekends. Same goes for campgrounds and Airbnbs, so book in advance if possible.

Where can you camp overnight in your campervan? You can’t park just anywhere, after all… Our advice is to download The Dyrt, an app that’ll take your campervan game to the next level. Use this link to get 30 days of the Pro Membership totally free (no strings attached). We’ve also got a whole article all about ways to find free camping if you want more info!

The road along the coast (Highway 101) is windy and narrow in parts. Drive carefully.

Plan to have picnics on your Oregon coast road trip. There are many perfect opportunities, so pack your favorite picnic foods, utensils, and a blanket so you’re prepared. 

Pay attention to the tide tables. While you won’t be able to plan out every stop along the way according to high and low tides, it’s good to know what to expect. For instance, if you want to see tide pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide. 

This website is a good resource for tide tables.

If you want to check out cool marine creatures in tide pools (like this one!), be sure to pay attention to the tide tables.

If you want to check out cool marine creatures in tide pools (like this one!), be sure to pay attention to the tide tables.

Weekends in the summer can get crazy busy. Everyone from Portland migrates to the coast on the weekends… or so it seems. Be prepared.

Trailheads can get super busy and often times people park alongside the (narrow) road.

  • Tip: Check out all the best Oregon Coast hikes to plan your hikes before you arrive and get to the trailheads early!

An Oregon State Park Pass is good to have and will likely save you money in the long run!

Be prepared for wind! Some beaches and lookout points can get incredibly windy. Like, sand whipping in your eyes, windy! You’ve been warned.

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You can have bonfires on the beach. There are places all along the coast that sell firewood for $5 a bundle.

Native lands: The first people to call the Oregon coast home are the following native peoples (in order from north to south):

Tillamook and Siletz

Athabaskans

Find more info here

Catch as many sunsets as you can! You’re on the West Coast after all, and there are some spectacular opportunities for watching the sun sink into the deep blue oblivion of the ocean. 

If you’re traveling in a campervan , pay careful attention to signage for overnight parking.

Whew, that was a lot! But we hope this helps get you prepared for an epic trip. Now let’s move on to the fun stuff… the planning!

Oregon Coast Road Trip Map

Oregon Coat Road Trip Map | Two Wandering Soles

Oregon Coast Road Trip

Ecola state park, cannon beach, oswald west state park, neahkahnie beach viewpoint.

Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Rockaway Beach

Tillamook creamery, netarts bay, three capes scenic route, pacific city, lincoln city.

Thor’s Well

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Sea lion cave, shore acres state park, samuel h. boardman state scenic corridor.

Things to Pack for an Oregon Coast Road Trip

Sample Oregon Coast Itineraries

Coolest Places to Stay on the Oregon Coast

Astoria Oregon Coast

At a Glance: Harbor town with history & a good food and beer scene

Driving to Astoria from Portland: 98 miles / 1 hour 50 minutes

This quaint riverside town on the very northern edge of the Oregon coast has a special, unpretentious kind of charm. We’ve heard people describe it as a “small San Francisco”. 

Both are harbor towns with a strong tie to fishing. Both have (steep!) hills and green space. And while Astoria lacks San Francisco’s diversity and lively nightlife, it has an undeniable allure that we think you’ll dig.

With a pretty decent food and brewery scene, as well as lots of things to do, Astoria makes a great first stop on your Oregon coast road trip (especially if you’re coming from Portland , as it’s not a long drive).

Things to Do in Astoria

east coast victoria road trip

We have a big ol’ guide of the best things to do in Astoria , so definitely check that out before planning your trip. But here’s a glance at some of the highlights:

  • Climb to the top of the Astoria Column. Towering at 125 feet tall, this column is a town icon and offers unrivaled views of the Columbia River below. 
  • Walk the Cathedral Tree Trail: Take a 1.5-mile out-and-back walk through a forested trail that passes a giant sitka spruce tree.
  • Fort Stevens State Park: Just about 20 minutes from town, this state park is known for its wide sandy beaches and a shipwreck, the Peter Iredale. 
  • Astoria Museums: If you’re into museums (or are just looking for a way to spend a rainy day), there are several museums in the town of Astoria.
  • Sample local craft beer: If you’re a beer-lover, you’ll have no shortage of options in Astoria. There are tons to choose from! 

Food & Drink in Astoria

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For tons of food and drink suggestions, check out our Astoria, Oregon guide !

Where to stay in Astoria

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Airbnb Suite with River View – This cozy guest suite comes complete with a claw foot soaking tub and sauna! The one bedroom space sleeps 4 comfortably and offers views of the Columbia River Basin from its central Astoria location.

Driving from Astoria to Seaside: 17 miles / 30 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Seaside

At a glance: Popular beachside town with a large resort feel

I’m going to be blunt right off the bat: We didn’t love Seaside.

But it’s one of the most popular towns on the Oregon coast, so we couldn’t very well leave it off this list. Keep reading to see if it’s a place you’d enjoy…

My dad put a photo lab in Seaside back in the 70’s (yep, he traveled around the US and helped set up photo labs!) and said at that time it was a really cool little beach town. Well, fast-forward to today and it almost has a mini Atlantic City vibe.

There are some diner-style restaurants, an arcade, and cheesy souvenir shops with graphic tees sporting phrases like “I pooped today” printed across the chest (yep, that gem of a shirt was on display when we walked through town). And to top it off, there’s a towering timeshare resort that’s kind of an eyesore right along the beach. 

I think I would have liked this town back in the day… But in my opinion, there are many other towns I prefer along the Oregon coast.

Our opinion on Seaside: There’s no hiding how we felt about Seaside. But here’s the thing… some people must love it because it was packed with families and teenagers who looked super stoked to be there. So if you’re in the area and have time to check it out, don’t let our opinion dissuade you. But if you’re pressed for time, this is one city that could be given a miss (in our opinion, of course).

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Things to do in Seaside

Sunset at the beach: The sunset at Seaside is pretty wonderful. But it’s also wonderful all along the coast, so Seaside isn’t necessarily a stand-out in any way. But if you’re there in the evening don’t miss the sunset. M‘kay?

Grab Gelato: The one saving grace about our time in Seaside was that we popped into a gelato shop — the only one still open after 9 p.m. when we got those ice cream cravings — and we waited in a long line for what I anticipated would be a mediocre cone. But damn, it was gooooood. Their sign says they are voted the “best ice cream in Oregon”, and while we can’t vouch for that, I can say it was pretty dang good. Other than Tillamook, it was my favorite cone on our trip.

Psst! If you like cheesecake, I’d highly recommend the cheesecake flavored gelato (paired with a berry flavor, perhaps?!). It tasted like a cheesecake was frozen and made into ice cream. Yum!

Go Hiking in Ecola State Park: We’ll dive a little deeper into this state park in the next section, but if you’re big on hiking, there is access to a pretty sweet trail (Tillamook Head) from the southern limit of Seaside.

Walk the “Prom” (aka the 1.5-mile long promenade that borders the ocean). Lined with beachgrass and sandy dunes, this walk is a good place to people-watch or just get a morning jog in. Along the Prom, you’ll spot a monument dedicated to Lewis and Clark, as this was a place the expedition group supposedly made salt with which they preserved their meat.

Driving from Seaside to Cannon Beach: 9 miles / 15 minutes

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Sprawling along 9 miles of coastline between Seaside and Cannon Beach sits Ecola State Park, and it is well worth a stop on your road trip.

With cliffside lookouts, secluded beaches, clusters of sea stacks, and thick old growth forest, Ecola State Park is a coastal gem.

Points of interest in Ecola State Park

Indian Beach: Beautiful beach for surfing, or relaxing (and watching the surfers!). There are also tide pools on this beach.

Clatsop Loop Trail: This 2.5-mile hike follows a historical interpretive route.

Tillamook Head Hike: With a path that winds through dense forest and brings you to epic ocean lookouts, this is an excellent hike to add to your itinerary. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with views of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, which is perched on an island just offshore. This hike can be started from either the trailhead at Indian Beach or the Tillamook Head trailhead at the very southern edge of Seaside. The hike is 6 miles from end to end, but unless you have two cars (one to park at either end of the trail), you’ll likely have to hike out and back, making the hike roughly 12 miles in total.

Feeling adventurous?! You have the option of spending the night at one of the 3 huts at Hikers Camp. Each cabin is equipped with 4 basic wooden bunk beds and a canvas door. There is also a fire pit, bundles of firewood for sale, and a covered picnic area. This is a free spot to camp, but make sure you are packing everything you bring out with you and carefully following the Leave No Trace principles .

Cost: $5 per car to enter (or free with an Oregon State Parks Pass)

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Cannon+Beach

At a Glance: Charming beach town with iconic sea stack formations and tide pools

Unlike it’s larger neighbor 7 miles to the north (aka Seaside), Cannon Beach still retains some small town charm despite it also being a very touristy town.

The shops and houses all have the cedar shingles and white shutter combo that are ubiquitous in upscale ocean towns. The attraction for which Cannon Beach is most well known is the iconic Haystack rock formation that sits just off the beach.

Things to do in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Explore the tide pools around Haystack Rock . Get a timetable from the visitor center and make sure you’re in town for a low tide so you can explore the tide pools. There are so many little sea critters that come out when the waters are low, like purple starfish and bright orange anemones, to name a couple!

Responsible Travel Tip: Be careful of where you step so you don’t crush any living rock clams. Only step on solid rock or sand, and watch when the tide starts to come back in.

Explore Ecola State Park. See some recommended trails in the section above.

Have a bonfire on the beach. Bring snacks, music and blankets (it can get cold and windy at night!) and enjoy an unparalleled view of Haystack Rock.

Explore Hug Point and walk to the waterfall on the beach. (More info in the section below.)

Spend the afternoon at Arcadia Beach.

Check out our complete guide to Cannon Beach for all the information you need to plan a trip here.

Food & Drink in Cannon Beach

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Fish+&+Chips

Wake up at Sleepy Monk: With excellent coffee and the best pastries in town, this is an excellent place to get your morning fix before heading to the beach. Their entire bakery case looked amazing, but this is what we ordered (and loved!):

signature lemon poppyseed cake with layers of yummy lemon zest frosting

savory scone… bacon, bleu cheese and chives, can I get a hell yeah?!

Another good spot for a caffeine fix is Insomnia Coffee Co. With a cozy feel, friendly staff and strong coffee, we sure didn’t have any complaints.

Grab happy hour at Driftwood Restaurant – Get there for happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily for $6 Chowder Bread Bowls and $6 glasses of wine to enjoy around an outdoor fire pit.

Sample local beer at Pelican Brewing. ‘Nuff said.

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Cannon+Beach-1

Where to stay in Cannon Beach

Where+to+stay+in+Cannon+Beach++_+Photo+credit_+Airbnb

Airbnb: Comfy Guest Room in Cannon Beach – Rent a guest room in this recently renovated inn, complete with a rose garden courtyard for relaxing. The room features a kitchenette, making it the perfect base for a couple exploring Cannon Beach.

Driving from Cannon Beach to Hug Point: 4.5 miles / 6 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Hug+Point+Beach

At a glance: Beach with an oceanside waterfall and cave

As you drive south of Cannon Beach, keep your eyes peeled because it can be easy to miss the small parking area. If you’re there on a weekend (like we were), you might notice cars clustered along the side of the highway before you even get to the turnout, signaling that the parking lot is likely full.

The beach itself isn’t all that large, but the thing that makes this beach special is the small waterfall that spills out onto the beach and flows into the Pacific. Next to it is a shallow cave that provides a nice spot of shade for those wanting to get out of the sun. 

Fun Fact: Apparently this area got its name in the late 19th century before Highway 101 was constructed. At the time, the only way for those on the Oregon Trail to travel along the coast was along the beach. On this narrow section of coastline, the settlers had to wait for low tide before driving their stagecoaches… being sure to hug the point. We didn’t see it, but supposedly, you can still see some stagecoach tracks that had been carved in the rocks along the shore.

Driving from Hug Point to Oswald West: 5 miles / 6 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Oswald+West+State+Park

At a glance: State park with secluded sandy beaches and old growth forests

Located just 9.6 miles south of Cannon Beach, stopping at this state park should definitely be on your itinerary!

A short and easy hike through an old growth forest will bring you to an idyllic beach, bordered by towering trees, strewn with smooth rocks and driftwood, and dotted with surfers trying to catch a wave.

This was one of our favorite beaches along the Oregon coast!

Good to know: If you visit on a sunny Saturday in July (like we did!), you might barely find a spot to park. But even on the most crowded of days, a visit to this gem of a state park is well worth your time.

Driving from Oswald West to Manzanita: 5 miles / 8 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Neahkahnie+Beach+Viewpoint

At a glance: Stunning viewpoint that overlooks the beach below

If we were going to share all the stunning viewpoints along the Oregon coast, this article would never end. Seriously.

There are countless viewpoints along Highway 101, and we’d encourage you to pull over whenever you get the urge — as long as there’s a safe pull-out spot, of course! It can be quite difficult in some areas to turn around and go back to a viewpoint you missed, so if you see a pretty spot, slow down.

Part of the fun of an Oregon coast road trip is discovering hidden viewpoints and pulling over just for the hell of it. You can find some serious gems this way! But we are sharing this particular viewpoint because it’s quite special.

Keep an eye on your map so that you have time to pull over. There are a few different pull-out points, and the vantage point from the cliffside overlooking a long stretch of sandy beach is absolutely breathtaking, especially on a sunny day when the water shimmers with turquoise hues, almost resembling a tropical destination.

Have some extra time? There are some epic hikes on the Neahkahnie Mountain, overlooking the beach below.

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Manzanita

At a glance: Artsy little town with a low-key vibe

Flanked on one side by pine forests and the ocean on the other, this tiny town is less crowded than many of its busier neighbors.

Manzanita is essentially comprised of a cluster of small shops lining one main street that follows the coastline, but the town is undeniably charming.

Things to do in Manzanita

Browse the shops: Pop into the boutiques lining the street as you make your way down to the ocean.

Get a sandwich to go! If you’re hungry, grab a sandwich at Manzanita Grocery & Deli and bring it down to the beach to enjoy with a view. Just be warned that this stretch can get particularly windy!  

The Winery at Manzanita is a great spot for relaxing with a glass of pinot noir and enjoying a beautiful rooftop view. When it’s cool outside, they turn on the outdoor fire pits and even offer all the fixings for s’mores.

MacGregor’s Whisky Bar: With beautiful charcuterie boards, whiskey tastings and handcrafted cocktails, this quaint little bar is not to be missed if you’re in town during the evening.

Shop the Farmers Market. Open seasonally on Friday evenings, you’ll find fresh produce, artisan goods and live music.

Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery: Great pasties and breakfast offerings in a friendly, casual atmosphere (just outside Manzanita).

Rising Star Cafe in the nearby town of Wheeler looks fantastic if you want a nicer dining experience. Be sure to check out their website, as they are only open seasonally.

Explore Nehalem Bay State Park: With trails and sand dunes, this is a beautiful place to wander.

Where to stay in Manzanita

Modern+Home+in+Manzanita+_+Photo+credit_+Airbnb

Airbnb: Whispering Pines Modern Home – This beautiful modern 3 bedroom home is full of natural light and just a short walk from the shops, restaurants and beach in Manzanita.

Camping:  Nehalem Bay State Park has a large campground with lots of amenities, and even yurts you can stay in.

Driving from Manzanita to Kelly’s Brighton Marina: 8 miles / 13 minutes

Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Kelly's+Brighton+Marina

At a glance: Marina with a casual seafood restaurant, cheap beer, outdoor seating, and camping

This is less of a restaurant than it is a destination.

This marina-restaurant-campground-bait shop is the perfect blend of everything we love about the Oregon coast. There’s a fun, laidback vibe, reasonably-priced seafood, and a postcard-worthy view (especially if you’re there on a sunny day!). 

If you’re limited on time, you can choose to order a seafood meal and enjoy it at a dockside table. But on the flip side, you can make a day of hanging at the marina…

Grab your camping chairs and bring them out to the dock to try your hand at crabbing! It’s pretty simple, really. You’ll be given a crab ring (essentially a ring the size of a small hula hoop with a rope netting around it and bait inside). You’ll toss it out into the water and wait 10-15 minutes before pulling it in. 

You’re only allowed to keep male crabs, so the females can continue to reproduce more (delicious) crabs! And they must be over a certain size. Chances are you’ll have to throw many back into the water, but cross your fingers that you get one big enough to keep. If you do, Kelly’s will cook it for you for free. That’s right, FREE!

Oregon Coast Road Trip: Crabbing

Insider Tip: the best crabbing happens in the morning when the tide is coming in (bringing crabs right to you!). We went two times: Once earlier in the day and once later, and the morning was far superior. 

Rental costs:

$15 for a crab ring and bait (aka a fish head)

$3.50 for a bucket and crab measuring tool

Also, if you’re up for it, pop into the convenience shop and pick up a beer (or two!). At around $3.50 per can of craft beer, they’re very reasonably priced.

Camping? Kelly’s offers camping packages that are actually quite a good deal. Looking for a free spot to stealth camp? Head onto Rockaway Beach and read our tip below…

Driving from Kelly’s Brighton Marina to Rockaway Beach: 4 miles / 6 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Rockaway+Beach

At a glance: Town with lots of vacation rentals situated along a very long beach

Another cutie, the town of Rockaway Beach is more or less concentrated right around Highway 101, which hugs the ocean. The town is long , and there’s not exactly a main walking street, as you’ll find in many other coastal towns.

While not as polished as Cannon Beach or as picturesque as Oceanside, Rockaway Beach makes a great stop as there are a lot of vacation rentals in this town, and a large beach to be explored.

Things to do in Rockaway Beach

Photograph Twin Rocks. These iconic sea stacks lie just off shore, and one has an archway that you can see through.

Hike to the Rockaway Big Tree. Just off Highway 101 is a trailhead that leads to this massive Western Red Cedar tree. Towering at 154 feet tall and just under 50 feet in circumference around the base, this tree is well worth the .5-mile walk to see. The newly constructed boardwalk makes getting there easy for travelers of all abilities.

Wander around the peculiar Troxell’s Rock Garden. This quirky “garden” is full of all sorts of rocks, fossils and art, and is free to visit. If you find a rock you’d like to keep as a souvenir, you pay what you think is fair. And if you’re into mini golf, there’s a course that is $3 per person for unlimited play.

Walk along Manhattan Beach. Just north of Rockaway, this beach is quiet and beautiful.

Food & Drink in Rockaway Beach

Offshore Grill and Coffee House: Sandwiches, salads, coffee and baked goods in a cozy space

New Taste of India Food Truck: If you’re craving something other than seafood, this food truck is said to have amazing food

Old Oregon Smoke House: This town staple is the place to come for seafood

Littoral Bar: Excellent cocktails as well as eclectic paninis and soups in a cozy setting with an outdoor deck

Where to stay in Rockaway Beach

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Airbnb: Storybook Beach Cottage – This adorable 3 bedroom cottage is just steps away from Twin Rocks Beach. Cozy up in front of the wood burning fireplace, or relax in the sun on the front porch.

Camping: If you’re in a campervan, there’s a parking lot right on the beach where to you can stay overnight for free. There aren’t any parking restrictions and there’s  a public restroom nearby. This place get bonus points because there’s a shop serving big scoops of Tillamook ice cream right across the street!

Driving from Rockaway Beach to Garibaldi: 5 miles / 9 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Garibaldi

At a glance: Fishing village with a pretty marina

If you’re into fishing villages and not into the touristy thing, Garibadi will be your jam. It’s cute. It’s not crowded or packed with selfie sticks. It’s a real, true fishing town.

While there’s not a ton to do in the town itself, it’s worth getting out of your car and stretching your legs, if only just to glimpse the picturesque marina.

Things to do in Garibaldi

Take a scenic train ride. The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad runs between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach. You can begin your journey in either town, enjoy a 30-minute layover, then return to your starting point. The train runs daily during the summer months, and only on weekends during the fall . Check their website for times and ticket availability.

Cost: $22 for adults

Photograph the marina. It’s beautiful!

Check out Fishpeople Seafood. Find fresh catches of the day, packaged items, and merch in this sustainable fish market.

Try your hand at fishing! Whether you’re new to fishing or are an expert angler, Lewis and Clark guide service can cater a fishing trip to you. Fish for salmon or halibut, and cross your fingers that you catch something for dinner!

Eat some fresh fish & chips. Sea Baron Fish & Chips is a food truck in Garibaldi that’s known for serving up some tasty (and super fresh!) fish.

Driving from Garibaldi to Oceanside: 19 miles / 30 minutes

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Tillamook+Creamery

At a glance: Famous Oregon creamery that offers tours

This farmer-owned creamery is a state institution and a must-visit on your Oregon coast road trip.

If you’re not from Oregon and haven’t tried Tillamook ice cream or cheese, you’re in for a real treat. And if you’re an Oregonian through and through you already know the magic we’re talking about… Where better to indulge than at the source?!

Visit the Tillamook Creamery and take a self-guided tour of the newly-constructed facility and learn all about how your favorite dairy items are made.

Once you’ve seen the process, it’s time to give these dangerously delicious dairy creations a taste! Order from the dairy-heavy menu (would you expect anything less?!) at the onsite restaurant.

With items like gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese curds, mac ’n cheese, and of course, their famed ice cream, you’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy… unless you’re lactose intolerant, of course. In that case, I’m very sorry!

Other things to do in Tillamook

While visiting the creamery is the biggest draw of this town for most outside visitors, there are other things to do in town that don’t involve dairy!

Go kayaking! Kayak Tillamook offers tours that run along 100 miles of waterways in the area. Choose from scenic trips to moonlight tours, or learn how to dig for clams from a kayak!

Stock up on picnic supplies. Blue Heron is a shop nearby where you can pick up cheeses, salads, or even a Tillamook ice cream cone. It’s an alright alternative if you’re needing some dairy and can’t make it to the Tillamook Creamery.

Wander around downtown Tillamook. In addition to the creamery, downtown Tillamook is pretty cute, so give it a gander if you have the time.

Grab a beer at Pelican Brewery.

Enjoy fresh oysters and wine at JAndy Oyster Co.

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Oceanside

At a glance: Quaint cliffside town with a unique beach

This is one of the most picturesque towns on the Oregon coast (in my humble opinion).

With cliffs dotted with cedar-shingled houses that jut up from the ocean, sea stacks just off shore, and far fewer tourists than many other coastal towns, Oceanside kind of feels like a hidden gem.

First things first… this town is very small. There are only a couple cafes in town, and not much going on. If you’re looking for lots of things to keep you busy, Oceanside won’t be the best base.

But if you’re looking for a romantic getaway at the ocean, there are few places better suited. Rent a cute Airbnb ( like this one! ) and wake up on vacation time.

Things to do in Oceanside:

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Sea Stacks: There are sea stacks just off the shore that you’ll see as you drive into town. One of the rock formations has an arch!

Tunnel beach: This is kind of just what it sounds like… a tunnel that leads to a “hidden” beach! Compared to many beaches on the Oregon coast, this one tends to be less crowded and is a good place to spot mussels, starfish and cool rocks. Plus, from this beach, you’ll see even more sea stacks off in the distance.

Cape Meares Lighthouse: Just north of town, you can visit this beautiful lighthouse.

See the Octopus Tree! This massive spruce tree appears to have many trunks, making it look like an octopus! Located near the Cape Meares Lighthouse, stop by the tree while you’re in the area.

Cozy up in one of the cute cafes in Oceanside:

Blue Agate Café: excellent breakfast and lunch with a focus on fresh seafood.

Rosemary’s: Breakfast, lunch and dinner with an ocean view.

Good to know: We got very patchy cell service in Oceanside, and it seemed kind of like a dead spot (at least for Verizon), so just be prepared!

Where to stay in Oceanside

east coast victoria road trip

Airbnb: Little Luxe Retreat – This one bedroom home is ideally located in Oceanside, just a few minutes walk from restaurants and the beach. Enjoy the sweeping ocean views from your private wraparound deck (complete with hot tub!).

Driving from Oceanside to Netarts Bay: 2.6 miles / 6 minutes

Fresh Oysters Seattle

At a glance: Best place for fresh oysters

The small town of Netarts is situated at the north end of the bay after which it takes its name. This is one of the lesser-developed ares along the coast, and as you drive the road along the bay, the marshy wetlands may make you forget for a moment that you’re on the ocean.

If you like fresh oysters, you’ll be in heaven as this is one of the best places along the coast to enjoy your favorite shellfish. Just be sure to look up the hours of the establishments in the area, as they are only open for the afternoon.

JAndy Oysters: This garage-turned oyster bar in downtown Tillamook (just north of Netarts) may seem unassuming, but the oysters are top-notch and so is the wine.

Insider Tip: Their house-smoked oysters are fantastic!

Nevor Shellfish Farm: Another place to enjoy oysters in a no-frills setting is at Nevor. We met a girl from Portland who is obsessed with oysters (she even has an oyster tattoo!) and comes here weekly to get her fix to-go, then she enjoys them on the bay.

Jacobsens Salt: This bay is known for its high salinity and is a perfect place for harvesting sea salt. You can see how its made and buy some of their gourmet sea salt products. I actually saw an interview with the owner on an international flight and have been intrigued ever since! Sadly, this locally-famous establishment was closed at the time we visited, but next time we’re on the coast we’re determined to get here. 

This beach is a short walk from the parking lot at Cape Lookout.

This beach is a short walk from the parking lot at Cape Lookout.

This scenic drive starts just north of Oceanside and ends at Pacific City. It passes by — you guessed it! — three scenic capes along the way (they didn’t get very creative with naming the route!).

Cape Meares: Just north of Oceanside, this steep bluff is great for spotting whales during migration season. Also, Cape Meares has two extremes — the largest Sitka Spruce in Oregon as well as the shortest lighthouse in Oregon.

Cape Lookout: This day use area is popular with families and has lots of excellent picnicking areas, walking trails and secluded beaches.

Cape Kiwanda: The smallest of the three capes, this area just north of Pacific City is known for some epic waves! There are also some nice hiking trails in the area.

For this section of your road trip, you’ll want to veer off Highway 101, which takes a more inland route at this point. Instead, you’ll hug the shoreline.

Driving from Cape Meares to Cape Kiwanda: 29 miles / 45 minutes (though that’s without any stops, and you’ll definitely want to make some!)

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At a glance: Popular surf town with a sandy dune

We were there on a weekend day and holy crap, it was BUSY! There were no parking spots in town whatsoever. We ended up parking on the highway in a kind of sketchy spot and walking to town. Yikes.

So, is it worth it? I suppose it depends.

In our experience (on a crazy-busy-sunny-summer-weekend!), we didn’t love it. But that is mostly because of how crowded it was when we visited. Had we gone at a less busy time, our feelings may be different.

Pacific City is really popular with surfers. And to us, it felt like the closest thing to southern California that you’ll find on the Oregon coast. So if that’s the vibe you’re after, you may love it.

What’s there to do in Pacific City?

The original Pelican Brewing (a coast favorite!) is right on the beach, so that’s a must for all beer lovers like us.

Go surfing! If you’re up for it, Pacific City has great waves.

Cape Kiwanda is one of the three scenic capes in the area and is worth exploring!

The Great Dune is just off the main beach in Pacific City, and can be climbed to the top for a great view and a fun place to hang out for a bit.

Driving from Pacific City to Lincoln City: 22 miles / 30 minutes

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At a glance: Larger coastal town with 7 miles of beach to explore (more than any other city on the Oregon coast)

One of the bigger towns on the coast, Lincoln City is known for their bi-annual kite festivals, glass blowing community, and like just about every other coastal town, fresh seafood!

As we approached Lincoln City on Highway 101, the strip malls and chain stores made me question how much I’d like this town… but it turns out once you get off the highway, it get progressively more charming.

While not as quaint as many of the smaller and less commercialized towns on the Oregon coast, Lincoln City has a relatively large and spacious beach as well as a bourgeoning foodie scene, making it a good place to add to your Oregon coast itinerary if you have the time.

Things to do in Lincoln City

Stock up on smoked salmon at Barnacle Bill’s. Situated just off Highway 101, this small shop doesn’t look like much, but don’t be fooled and pass it by. Barnacle Bill’s is known for their excellent smoked salmon, and there was a long (but quick-moving!) line on the day we visited. They also have a selection of fresh seafood that varies by availability, but don’t leave without trying the smoked salmon. Seriously.

Good to know: This place is cash only (but there is an ATM on site)

Search for blown glass on the beach. Finders Keepers is a program where local artisans hide blown glass “floats” on the 7-mile stretch of beach from Siletz Bay (south) to Roads End (north). Each year, there are 3,000 glass floats that are up for grabs. And as the old saying goes… finders keepers! I so wish we would have known about this cool program before our visit. Read up on the details of the program here so you don’t miss out.

Make or design your own blown glass creation. Whether you didn’t get lucky enough to find a glass float on the beach or you want to awaken your inner artist, Lincoln City is a great place to learn the art of glass blowing. Check out the Lincoln City Glass Center’s website to see their current offerings or visit AlderHouse where you can have their resident artists customize a piece for you.

Hike to God’s Thumb. On the very north end of town is a grassy mound that vaguely resembles a giant thumb. (I personally think in general people took a bit of liberty with the names of many rock formations on the Oregon coast!) The trailhead for this 4.8-mile out and back hike is a bit difficult to find, and the entrance point has recently changed. Follow these instructions for getting there so you don’t accidentally trespass.

Good to know: Beware that this trail can get very muddy, so come prepared and look up trail conditions before you begin the hike.

Photograph the creepy “ghost forest beach”. Neskowin Beach is just north of Lincoln City, and if you hit it at the right time of day (aka low tide), you’ll see an eerie sight… tree stumps sticking up in the sand. These are the remains of 2,000-year-old Sitka spruce trees that once populated a forest towering 200 feet tall. Plan your visit around low tide, because you won’t be able to see them during high tide (we made that mistake!). Another feature of Neskowin Beach is a sea stack called Proposal Rock, which you can’t miss!

Enjoy a splurge-worthy meal at The Bay House: This award-winning restaurant offers 3- or 5-course tasting menus that rotate with what’s seasonally available as well as menu items a la carte. It is said to be excellent (though we can’t speak from experience), and looks to be a memorable dining experience.

Wander through the Connie Hansen Garden: This one-acre garden isn’t huge, but it’s a nice little oasis in the middle of town and is a change of scenery. The focus of this free garden is on different varieties of rhododendrons (because they thrive in Lincoln City’s cool and damp climate), but there are other seasonal blooms as well.

Entry is free (though donations are appreciated), and the garden is open daily from dawn ’til dusk.

Where to stay in Lincoln City

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Airbnb: The Starfish – This one bedroom condo features a private balcony with ocean views to watch the sunset each night. Beach access, a gas fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen make this the perfect home base in Lincoln City.

Driving from Lincoln City to Depoe Bay: 12 miles / 19 minutes

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At a glance: Whale watching capital of Oregon

Depoe Bay has traded the expansive sandy beach you’ll find in neighboring Lincoln City for a rugged coastline dotted with whitecaps and… resident whales!

Often touted as the “whale watching capital of Oregon”, Depoe Bay is the best place to try your luck at spotting these gentle giants on the Oregon coast.

Fun Fact: Apparently Depoe Bay has the world’s smallest harbor!

Things to do in Depoe Bay

Dopoe Bay

If you look really closely, you’ll see a whale peeking out of the water to the left of the boat. The thick marine layer made it a bit difficult to see (or photograph!).

Try to spot a whale (or two!). Between the months of March and December, a resident pod of grey whales call the waters just offshore of Depoe Bay home, giving visitors an excellent chance of spotting them. In fact, after just a few minutes of strolling along the ocean walk, we saw a whale-tail-slap (is that what it’s called?!) in the distance.

Insider Tip: If you want a close up view of the whales, you might want to book a whale watching tour. There are several operators in town. According to them, the best time for whale watching is between July and September.

Wander the main strip and pop into one of the many boutiques.

Grab coffee at Pirate Coffee Company or LEFT COAST Coffee Co. and stroll along the oceanfront walkway. (Be sure to look to the water for whales!)

Enjoy breakfast and a harbor view at Whale Bites Cafe.

Visit Devil’s Punchbowl. This formation was created by erosion, and it makes for a pretty cool stop, especially at low tide when it’s possible to go down into it. Be warned that it can get extremely (like, EXTREMELY!) windy here! If you need something to warm you up, there’s a Mo’s Chowder just beside the viewpoint.

Where to stay in Depoe Bay

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SCP Hotel Depoe Bay is a sustainability-focused hotel that is beautifully designed with reasonable rates. The onsite restaurant offer healthy, locally sourced dishes you can enjoy on the outdoor deck overlooking the marina.

Driving from Depoe Bay to Newport: 13 miles / 19 minutes

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At a glance: Bustling coastal city with a busy fishing port

This town is pretty big (one of the larger cities on the coast), and is complete with a Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum… My childhood self would have been stoked, but adult me rolls my eyes when I see a Ripley’s. However, no matter your stance on Ripley’s, there is more to Newport than oddities in a museum.

The town is split in two sections — north of the river and south of the river.

You’ll smell the port before you see it… and if you’re there at the right time, you might see what you’re smelling as they transport it from the docks to the processing center.

Things to do in Newport

Oregon Coast Road Trip Newport

Yaquina Head Lighthouse is well worth a visit. Just north of town, this lighthouse is stunning and the rocks just offshore are perfect for birdwatching. I felt like we had been transported to Iceland for a minute!

Walk onto the jetty and (hopefully!) spot sea lions. On both the north and south side of the river, a jetty stretches out into the ocean and you can walk pretty far along the rocky structure. We were told by a local that the north jetty is an excellent spot for viewing sea lions, but on the day we went it was so foggy that we couldn’t see more than 10 feet in front of us. So maybe the sea lions were there, but we didn’t see them! The sandy dunes in the Yakina Bay recreation area were pretty cool to see and we watched a few surfers ride into the mist!

Wander the historic Nye Beach neighborhood. If you work up an appetite, there are plenty of great restaurant options to choose from in this area.

Go brewery hopping. Choose from the three local breweries (or sample them all!)

Newport Brewing

Bier One Brewing

Learn about the ocean. Nestled in the southern part of town, the Hatfield Marine Science Center and Oregon Coast Aquarium are just blocks apart.

The Science Center is part of Oregon State University, and offers educational tours.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium was once home to Keiko, the orca that starred in Free Willy , and today it is one of of the most famous aquariums in the US. We aren’t big fans of aquariums or zoos, so we chose to pass on this.

South Beach Fish Market: Get your fish and chips fix here!

Mo’s Seafood: This popular coastal chain was started in Newport (established in 1946). Visit the original location and get a bowl of their signature chowder.

Local Oceans Seafood

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This restaurant gets its own little section because we think it’s well worth adding to your itinerary if you can.

If you’ve got the budget for a nice seafood dinner on your trip, we’d highly recommend dining at Local Ocean’s Seafood in Newport. They call their restaurant concept “dock to table”, and you dine with a view of the dock where the catch is brought in daily. Can’t get much fresher than that!

Their dishes feature locally caught seafood in classic preparations (like crab cakes and fish and chips) as well as some inventive fusion styles (like salmon bruschetta and a tuna Rueben).

Okay, now the fun part; I’m going to tell you what we ordered! 

Grilled Calamari Salad: We ordered this dish as an appetizer and it was fantastic. I’m usually a huge fan of the fried version (with yummy dipping sauces!), but this version was so fresh and had been grilled over charcoal and it beats the deep-fried stuff any day. Served as a “salad” with roasted fennel, nicoise olives, poblano peppers, orange, shiitake mushrooms, and queso fresco, it’s a combination that I never would have come up with, but damn, it was fabulous.

Crab Po’ Boy: While the sandwich seemed a bit small at first, it was loaded with fresh crab! And of course, it was served with a generous portion of fries.

Moqueca: This was the star of the show! If you order just one of these suggestions, let this be it. This seafood stew apparently has origins in Brazil, and has a light coconut milk base. It is absolutely stuffed with giant prawns, rockfish and piles of fresh Dungeness crab. Oh, and then there’s some veggies (tomato, bell pepper and mushroom) to balance it out. So, sooooo good.

Total Bill: We both ordered a drink, an appetizer, two entrees, and with gratuity, our total bill was just shy of $100. It’s not exactly cheap, but the food was of the highest quality and the portions were large. It was a fun “splurge” meal.

Where to stay in Newport

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Airbnb: King Ocean View – This room in a boutique hotel in Newport is perfect for a couple exploring the coast together. Guests of the hotel appreciate the ideal location and amenities like the indoor pool, spa and sauna.

Driving between Newport & Seal Rock: 11 miles / 15 minutes 

Oregon Coast Road Trip Seal Rock

At a glance: Long beach with rock formations and tide pools

Unlike the name suggests, you aren’t likely to find seals here. Apparently one of the large rock formations resembles a seal… but I didn’t really see it.

Don’t be disappointed though. This beach is well worth a stroll and is a fantastic spot for seeing tide pools filled with little creatures.

Driving from Seal Rock to Yachats: 14 miles / 18 minutes

Yachats Oregon Coast

At a glance: Sleepy town set on a stretch of beautifully rugged coast

Instead of sandy beaches, you’ll see waves crashing against rugged black basalt rock, for a very different vibe than some of the more northern coastal towns.

Yachats (pronounced ya-hots… yep, I was saying it wrong too!) is home to fewer than 700 people and the center is just a few blocks. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. It is said that Arthur Frommer (yes, of that Frommer’s), once listed Yachats as one of his top 10 destinations in the world.

Things to do in Yachats:

Grab a coffee and stroll by the ocean. Green Salmon Coffee Company is an eco-friendly coffeehouse that serves up fair trade brews. Double bonus!

Browse rocks and fossils at Planet Yachats. This cute little rock store has good prices, and if you’re a rock nerd (like me!), you’ll probably find a few souvenirs! (Open Friday – Monday)

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a pastry at Bread & Roses Bakery. (Only open on the weekends)

Enjoy live music and seafood at Luna Sea Fish House. This casual town staple is known for their scratch-made menu featuring only the freshest seafood.

Cheers with a local craft brew at Yachats Brewing + Farmstore. With a menu focused on farm-to-table fare and an inviting atmosphere with lots of plants (yay!), this is a great stop for both beer and food.

Explore Cape Perpetua and visit Thor’s Well. More info on that below!

Psst! Check out our guide to Yachats, Oregon for more recommendations!

Where to stay in Yachats

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Airbnb: Ocean Way Cottage – If you’ve ever wanted to try out living in a tiny home, this is your chance. This centrally located cottage is perfect for a quiet romantic getaway in Yachats.

Thor’s Well

Thors Well Oregon Coast

At a glance: Naturally formed rock hole near the ocean that creates a cool illusion

Right about smack dab in the center of the Oregon coast lies the natural wonder known as Thor’s Well. You’ll want to be sure to stop here to get a glimpse of this phenomenon!

Located just 3 miles south of Yachats in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, a short walk toward the sea will bring you to what has been nicknamed the “drainpipe of the Pacific” and even the “gate to hell”. Yikes!

The volcanic rock that lines the shores has a gaping hole that fills with water each time a wave comes in. Just as quickly as it fills, it drains away, appearing to be sucked down into the center of the earth (hence those intense nicknames!).

While it’s sometimes referred to as a “sink hole”, experts believe that Thor’s Well likely began as a sea cave. Over time the roof collapsed, leaving us what we see today. Though it appears to be bottomless, it’s actually only around 20 feet deep. But don’t dangle anything valuable above it because there’s no way you’re getting it back!

High tide and low tide look different… If you have time, try to see both. But overall, high tide is more impressive, so plan your visit accordingly if possible.

Good to know: Photos of the hole can be a bit misleading… we were expecting something much larger, but when we arrived we realized it is just about 10 feet across at the widest part. That said, it’s still impressive and worth seeing.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area Oregon Coast

Thor’s Well is the most famous attraction on Cape Perpetua, but there are other “blow holes” (is that a real term?) where you can see more activity. Devil’s Churn and Spouting Horn are two that you’ll find nearby.

How to get to Thor’s Well: We’d recommend parking at the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center and taking the easy and well-marked 10 to 15-minute walk down toward the ocean. Check out this guide to visiting Thor’s Well Oregon for all the information you need!

Fee: A National Forest pass or day use fee is required for parking (an interagency pass, like America the Beautiful , works as well).

Driving between Thor’s Well & Heceta Head: 11 miles / 14 minutes 

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At a glance: Postcard worthy lighthouse requiring a short hike

I have a thing for lighthouses. My parents both really love them, and we’d always visit them on family trips, touring the living quarters and hearing scary stories about storms and shipwreck. Why am I so intrigued by creepy things?!

Anyway, I’ve always had a fascination with lighthouses and find myself dragging Ben to them all around the world.

If you visit one lighthouse on the Oregon coast, Heceta Head should be it.

From the parking lot ($5 day use fee or state park pass required), you’ll follow a forested trail for a half-mile, passing the lighthouse keeper’s residence just before you reach the lighthouse.

Oregon Coast | Heceta Head Lighthouse

Insider Tip: While it’s stunning to see it up close, we recommend taking the path to the right of the trail just before you reach the lighthouse. It’s a short hike up, but you’ll get views from the top overlooking the lighthouse with the ocean in the background. You can turn around and head back down the way you came, or you can continue on the trail which leads to Hobbit Beach.

The state park offers tours of the lighthouse and property between the hours of 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (summer) and 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (winter).

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Looking for a splurge? If you’re into lighthouses and have the budget for it, you can rent out a room in the lightkeeper’s house at Heceta Head and let your imagination run wild. Starting at $250 for the cheapest room, it’s not a very budget-friendly accommodation, but it’s sure to be one of the most unique stays on your trip!  

Driving time between Heceta Head & Sea Lion Cave: 1.5 miles / 4 minutes 

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At a glance: Sea lion conservation and observation

This was something we were really skeptical about.

For starters, we are always really wary of any “animal attraction” because often times these attractions are not ethical or created with the animals’ best interests in mind.

Secondly – I hope this doesn’t sound snobby – but the branding and signage at the Sea Lion Caves just seemed… dated and cheesy.

And lastly, we’ve never needed to pay to see wild sea lions. Usually we just park, walk, and look at them. So we were wondering why there was an admission fee in the first place.

Essentially, we were picturing an overpriced kiddie attraction where they were gouging tourists with an unnecessary admission fee.

Buuuut, admittedly sometimes we’re wrong. And this was one of those times.

When we arrived at 11 a.m. it was busy and a line stretched along the highway. It ended up taking 45 minutes before we got inside.

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Good to know: Be very cautious when crossing the road from the parking lot to the entrance because it is a super dangerous stretch and we saw one too many close calls!

After paying the entrance fee, we walked down to an outdoor viewpoint where there were about 150 sea lions (pretty far away!) just chillin’ in the sun on some rocks. I was still a little hesitant because, well, we had just paid a fee to look at sea lions in the distance. But the next stop got better.

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We took an elevator down where we were able to enter the main attraction: America’s Largest Sea Cave.

This naturally-formed cave is on private land that the owners have passed down through generations. At 12 stories tall and the length of a football field, the cave itself is pretty massive and was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and water erosion.

Inside the cave, there are some informational plaques, a short video, small exhibits and views of Heceta Head Lighthouse in the distance. But the main draw, of course, is being able to view the playful and noisy sea lions from an observation “window” that is quite a distance from the animals themselves, so as to not disturb their habitat.

During our visit there were about 50 sea lions in the cave, but supposedly more seek shelter inside during the winter months. The northern Steller sea lions are found along the west coast as well as in Alaska, and they are completely wild.

Entrance fee: $14 adults, $13 seniors, $8 kids 

Driving time between Sea Lion Caves & Florence: 10.5 miles / 14 minutes 

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At a glance: Cute “Old Town” with sand dunes just beyond the city center

We both studied abroad in Florence, Italy, and let’s just say there’s not much these two towns have in common other than their name…

That said, this Florence is ah-freaking-dorable (the Old Town section, at least) and has some adventurous things to do to top it off.

Oregon Coast Sandboarding

Situated near the mouth of the Siuslaw River, the center of Florence actually has a river view instead of looking out into the ocean, making it feel a bit different from many of the other towns on the Oregon coast. The combination of river + ocean + sand dunes makes this town pretty unique.

While Italy will always have my heart and be my number one, Florence, Oregon is pretty damn cool in its own right.

Things to do in Florence (Oregon!)

Florence Oregon Coast

Go sandboarding. If you’re adventurous and have time to do one thing in Florence, let it be this! It is such a fun activity you can’t do in very many places, so if you have the opportunity, take it! Our first time sandboarding was in Huacachina, Peru , and I’ve gotta say, I was surprised to find giant dunes in Oregon. Sand Master Park is the place for all your sandboard questions and rentals. The guy who was working when we stopped in competes regularly in sandboard competitions (yep, that’s a thing!) and you could tell he was suuuuper passionate about the sport. He shared his favorite spots with us and answered all our silly questions. While you’re there, be sure to check out their HUGE collection of sand from around the world which is pretty fascinating.

Insider Tip: There are two laundromats in town that have showers (yipee!), which was super helpful since we were traveling in our campervan. (We showered at this one .)

Wander “Old Town”. The facades of the pastel-painted shops are oozing with historic charm.

Pop into the many antique shops, art galleries, boutiques and book stores.

Enjoy a coffee with views of the Siuslaw River bridge. Old Town Coffee Roasters & River Roasters both serve fantastic brews.

And when you get hungry, you’ll have the difficult job of deciding between one of the floating seafood restaurants or cute cafes.

If you’re visiting Florence on a weekend in the summer, check out the Boardwalk Farmers Market.

Explore the freshwater lakes and parks in the area. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon wandering ‘till your heart’s content.

Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park (this is where we went sandboarding!)

Tahkenitch Dunes & Three Mile Lake

Go horseback riding on the beach. And while you’re at it, pretend you’re acting out a scene from a nineties rom-com. We passed by C&M Stables and also saw a few people on guided rides, and I’ve gotta say I was pretty jealous. Being that Ben is somewhat scared of horses (don’t tell him I told you!), he takes a lot of convincing when it comes to horseback riding. Next time we’re in the area, you better believe I’m going to twist his arm and get him on a horse because there are seldom more picturesque places to ride than on a rugged Oregon beach.

Go hiking! Below are two of the best hikes near Florence, Oregon.

Hobbit Trail and China Creek Loop: This 4-mile loop is popular for good reason. Hikers weave through lush forests and wind up on a beautiful beach.

Insider Tips: If you’re able, try to plan your hike at low tide. Also, download the AllTrails map for this hike ahead of time because there is limited cell service in the area.

Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse. It’s like something out of a postcard. (Look at the section above for more info!)

Visit the Sea Lion Caves. Again, we’ve got a whole section dedicated to this attraction, so scroll up to get more information about visiting.

Food & Drink in Florence, Oregon

Homegrown Public House & Brewery: We came for the beer and clam steamers and left super satisfied.

Mo’s Chowder: One of the many locations of this famous coastal chain is located on the water in downtown Florence.

Bridgewater Fish House & Zebra Bar: Cute restaurant in the heart of Old Town serving fresh seafood.

Lovejoy’s Tea Room: This British tea room serves up favorites like sticky toffee pudding , Scotch eggs and of course a proper pot of tea. Lovejoys also serves high tea and has Indian Dinner nights.

Old Town Coffee Roasters & River Roasters: Both of these coffeeshops in Old Town are cute and serve excellent coffee as well as baked goods.

Where to stay in Florence, Oregon

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Airbnb: Glamping in the “Chicken Coop” – This unique Airbnb stay is an affordable little gem in central Florence. Stay in a converted chicken coop turned bedroom, with a shared and well groomed yard space including a fire pit. A complementary bottle of wine and fresh chicken eggs make this a worthwhile stay for an adventurous couple on a budget!

Driving time between Florence & Shore Acres: 58 miles / 1.5 hours 

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At a glance: Impressive array of gardens and ocean viewpoints that are all free to explore

Before we set off on our trip, we got recommendations from at least two different people to make sure we stopped at this state park, just north of Bandon. And we’re glad we heeded their advice.

There are viewpoints and hiking trails, but Shore Acres is most well-known for its botanical gardens that are free to the public as long as you have a state park pass (or pay the $5 day use fee).

We’re huge fans of Japan and everything associated with the country and its culture, so exploring the Japanese zen garden — complete with a lily pond — was a highlight for us. There is also a rose garden and a large English-style garden as well.

Shore Acres State Park Japanese Garden

The gardens are open year round, and you’ll find it changes with the seasons (even in the winter!). In fact, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, there is a holiday lights display that looks pretty cool.

While you’re in the area, we’d recommend stopping at Simpson Reef Overlook. While it’s not anything entirely special, you can see sea lions on a large rock offshore. And at the next viewpoint, Cape Arago, a couple waved us down and pointed out some whales in the distance. Try your luck, and pack binoculars if you have them!

Additional Stop: The Umpqua River Lighthouse is located between Florence and Bandon (north of Shore Acres), and if you’re really into lighthouses it may be worth the stop (at least to stretch your legs!). The lighthouse tours are $8 and supposed to be pretty good, as is the small onsite museum. There are also yurts you can rent for the night in the adjacent state park. However, if you’re short on time this lighthouse isn’t nearly as scenic as others in the area, like Heceta Head.

Driving time between Shore Acres & Bandon: 25.5 miles / 35 minutes 

Bandon Oregon Coast

At a glance: Quaint town known for seafood and interesting art

With just over 3,000 residents, this small oceanside town is a picturesque and laid-back place to stop during a road trip along Oregon’s coast.

Wander past cute shops on the main street, enjoy amazing seafood, dig your toes in the sand, and see a unique art exhibit that will both disgust and inspire you. (We’ll explain in a minute!)

Things to do in Bandon

Bandon Oregon Washed Ashore

Explore Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. Discover tide pools at low tide or watch the sunset behind these beautiful sea stack rock formations.

See the disgustingly cool art at Washed Ashore. With the tag line “art to save the sea”, Washed Ashore builds and exhibits artwork made from trash that has washed up on the beach. Their intention is to educate the public about plastic pollution in our oceans and inspire people to make positive changes. How cool it that?! Check their website to see if they’re open during your visit. And if not, you can at least see a few of their pieces just outside the gallery.

This is the Circles in the Sand labyrinth at the beach in Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint.

This is the Circles in the Sand labyrinth at the beach in Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint.

Walk a labyrinth on the beach. Circles in the Sand is a community art project with a mission to “share love, joy and kindness”. This group turns the beach at Face Rock Viewpoint into a work of art unlike anything you’ve ever seen. You’ll find a labyrinth path and other designs that fit a common theme. Since this is a temporary type of art, the design and path is always different. Visitors can walk the path, reflect and enjoy this unique experience. We’ve known people who have driven to Bandon from hours away to see these unique works of art, so be sure not to miss it if you’re in the area!

Cost: It is free to walk the path, but donations are greatly appreciated.

When can you see Circles in the Sand? We spoke with the coordinators of this project, and they said they create sand labyrinths around 50 times per year (more frequently in the summer months). Check their website or Facebook page for their updated schedule.

Want to help create the sand art? Circles in the Sand accepts volunteers to help with their creations. In order to partake, message them via email or through Facebook Messenger.

Watch the sunset with the Coquille River Lighthouse in the backdrop. It’s a stunner.

Go exploring in Floras Lake State Natural Area. This undeveloped section of the coast is the perfect place to escape the crowds. You can walk down to the beach and most likely enjoy the views in solitude. While in the area, be sure to make it down to Blacklock Point for some dramatic views of the stunning sandstone cliffs. The trail to get there is 4.2 miles out and back, but it’s well worth the effort.

Food & Drink in Bandon

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Sample the local seafood. Tony’s Crab Shack and Bandon Fish Market sit across from each other with ocean views, and both restaurants are highly rated and long-time favorites. We’ve been to both, and enjoyed each.

Tony’s Crab Shack: We ordered a crab sandwich, clam chowder and steamer clams in a butter, garlic, and white wine broth at Tony’s and thoroughly enjoyed our meal, though the portions were a bit small in our opinion.

Bandon Fish Market: We had clam chowder, fish and chips, and a crab sandwich. Portions were larger, but it seemed like there were fewer fresh items on the menu than at Tony’s (heavier on the deep-fried dishes).

Edgewaters is a good spot for a nicer sit down dinner. 

Grab a local brew at Bandon Brewery. We enjoyed the beer, pizza and live music at this cozy joint a couple years ago, but have seen some negative review about their customer service and handling of Covid lately.

Face Rock Creamery for all your ice cream and cheese cravings!

Bandon Coffee Company has good brews and delicious breakfast sandwiches.

Where to stay in Bandon

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Airbnb: Bandon Beach Shack – Stay in this classic A-frame beach house that has been completely remodeled with modern comforts. Two bedrooms sleep a family of 4 comfortably just across from the beach.

Driving time between Bandon & Gold Beach: 55 miles / 1 hour

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip-2

At a glance: One of the southernmost towns on the Oregon coast

While not the cutest costal town on this list, Gold Beach still has its allure. Situated at the mouth of the Rogue River and bordered by the Siskiyou National Forest, Gold Beach can be a good hopping off point for many adventures.

Things to do in Gold Beach

Do a Jet Boat tour on the Rogue River. If you want to see the nearby Rogue River in a unique way and get a little adrenaline rush while you’re at it, book a tour with Jerry’s Rogue Jets . They run jet boat trips daily from May 1st through October 15th. Choose from a calm 64-mile trip on the river or a longer whitewater trip that traverses whitewater rapids through the deep river canyons into the wilderness. (We’d definitely opt for the latter!)

Spot a shipwreck! The wreck of the Mary D. Hume is just off shore at the mouth of the Rogue River and much of it is still exposed, so it’s cool to see while you’re in Gold Beach. The ship was built in 1881 in Gold Beach and was used commercially for 97 years before being retired and later sunk.

Hike around Otter Point. Just north of town, this state recreation site has lots of trails and cool sandstone rock formations.

Get lost in a book. Whether you want to kill some time on a dreary day or you love a good indie bookstore, Gold Beach Books will check both boxes.

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor: Lovely trail through cliffside forests and down to a secluded beach.

Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint: Just a bit past Cape Sebastian, this scenic viewpoint features small sandy dunes and cool rock formations just offshore.

Woggy’s Fish & Chips: Open seasonally, this is the place in Gold Beach to get a casual seafood dinner.

Barnacle Bistro: This casual seafood joint is set in a yurt-style building and is a local favorite. They’re known for fresh seafood, reasonable prices and insanely good garlic fries!

Arch Rock Brewing: This is a small tasting room, but worth a stop if you like beer. Just as a heads up, they have a limited selection of just 3 beers: a lager, a pale ale, and a porter.

Where to stay in Gold Beach

The+Blue+Bird+House+in+Gold+Beach+_+Image+source_+Airbnb

Airbnb: The Bluebird House – This unique Airbnb stay is in an actual tree house! The cozy house features modern comforts and comfortably sleeps 3. The private deck offers sweeping views of the Oregon Coastline.

Driving time between Gold Beach & SHB State Scenic Corridor: 13 miles / 15 minutes 

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor Oregon Coast

At a glance: Park on the rugged coastline of southern Oregon with secluded beaches & stunning viewpoints

At the very southern tip of the Oregon coast lies one of the most beautiful spots along this journey… Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

While this is a bit out of the way – unless you’re heading to or from California, of course – it is well worth adding it to your road trip itinerary if you have the time.

With interesting sea stack rock formations and hiking trails, you can easily spend a day (or three!) getting lost in the beauty before your eyes.

There are many turnouts that are worth stopping at for epic views. And you’ll also find some nice hikes along the way.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Hikes and Points of interest in Samuel H. Boardman:

The Natural Bridges is a short hike with some pretty spectacular views. (Note: These are the iconic views you typically see of Samuel H. Boardman.)

Secret Beach is a short hike down to the sandy beach when there is low tide. The trailhead for this is just north of Miller Creek on Highway 101. 

Indian Sands trail is known for wildflowers (during some parts of the year) and has some cool sand dunes to explore. Beware that the trail can be hard to see at times.

Whaleshead Beach is another beautiful beach to check out. There is a picnic area near the beach, which is really nice!

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Beach+Sunset

First things first: How long do you have for your Oregon coast road trip?

This road trip itinerary can be adjusted to pretty much any length of time, but it’s best to start with a number of days in mind so you know how much you’ll be able to fit in. 

Also, really think about what type of trip you want this to be…

Do you want to do short stops in many places and pack in as much as possible?

Or would you prefer staying in a couple of towns for longer periods of time? 

Short on time? This is just our opinion, but our favorite towns are south of Seaside. If you’re limited on time, we’d recommend heading straight to Cannon Beach (or further south, depending on where exactly you want to explore). 

Have extra time? If you have the luxury of extra time, be sure to stretch your route down to Samuel H. Boardman, because it is absolutely spectacular.

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Oregon+is+Magic+Mural

3 Days: Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook (circle back to Portland) 

Insider Tip! If you like cheese, there’s a little goat cheese stand just off Highway 6 on your route back called Fraga and they have goats on site!

5 Days: Astoria, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)

7 Days: Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport.

10 Days: Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Hugs Beach, Oswald West State Park, Oceanside, Tillamook, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport, Seal Rock State Park, Yachats, Thor’s Well and Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, Heceta Head Lighthouse, Sea Lion Caves, Sandboarding in Florence.

14 Days: Instead of repeating ourselves, start with the 10-day Itinerary above and then include: Shore Acres State Park, Bandon, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, and then continue to California or then travel back up I-5 to Portland.

Note: Are you staying in Airbnbs and hotels along the way, or are you driving a campervan? You may want to shape your itinerary around lodging. If you’re planning to camp, check out this article which explains how we find free camping !

Oregon Road Trip Bucket List

Oregon+Coast+Road+Trip+_+Sandboarding+Florence-1

Here are the highlights from our trip on the Oregon coast. We hope this helps you as you create your itinerary!

Craft Beers in Astoria

Hiking in Ecola State Park

Bonfire near Haystack rock on Cannon Beach

Walking to the waterfall at Hug Point

Oswald West Beach

View from Neahkahnie Viewpoint

Wandering around the cute towns of Manzanita and Oceanside

Crabbing at Kelly’s Brighton Marina

Tillamook ice cream and cheese at the creamery

Fresh Oysters and wine in Netarts Bay

Local Oceans Seafood Dinner in Newport

Exploring tide pools at Seal Rock

Seeing Thor’s Well “erupt”

Wandering the “Old Town” in Florence

Observing sea lions at the Sea Lion Caves near Florence

Going sandboarding in Florence

Wandering the Shore Acres Botanical Garden

Bandon in general: the seafood, the town, the sand labyrinth

The freaking-incredible views at Samuel H. Boardman state park

Places we thought were overrated

I want to start by saying that our expectations and timing come into play here. However, we know how helpful it is when planning a trip to know where we can cut if needed. Two towns that were weren’t so stoked on are:

Seaside: Felt kind of like a mini Atlantic City (in our opinions), and the large time share resort was kind of an eyesore.

Pacific City: It was just too busy when we visited for us to really enjoy.

What to Pack for an Oregon Coast Road Trip

Yachats Oregon Coast Road Trip

State Park pass: There are tons of state parks listed on this itinerary, and having a pass will save you money along the way (as well as the headache of having to pay at each individual point). Buy an annual pass for $30 at the first state park you stop at.

raincoat and/or umbrella

battery pack

layers: The coast can be notoriously chilly even in the height of summer. Bring warmer clothes than you think you’ll need.

Shoes that can get wet and are good for hiking

we usually pack Chacos as well as a pair of closed toe shoes

Camera & tripod

motion sickness remedies

light hiking gear

picnic blanket

binoculars (if you want to try your luck at spotting whales)

We spotted some with our naked eyes, but they were quite far away. So if you have binoculars, you may want to pack them!

Be sure to download our ultimate road trip packing list !  It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your next road trip. And it’s completely FREE , so why not!?

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Camping on the Oregon Coast

If you’re traveling in a campervan or simply hoping to save money on your Oregon Coast road trip by camping along the way, we have a deal for you!

The Dyrt is our favorite campsite locating app with the largest database of campgrounds (44,000+ campsites and counting!) and over 1 million user-submitted reviews.

Plus, it’s super user-friendly, and has some pretty cool features, like outdoor gear contests and forums to connect and seek advice from fellow campers, that you won’t find on any other camping app.

Try their Pro Membership for FREE for 30 days and gain access to the offline version of the the app, utilize their trip planning feature AND get exclusive discounts on campsites and gear!

The+Dyrt+Banner

We’ve taken the guesswork out of camping for you and put together a list of the best Oregon Coast campgrounds over on our sister site. Split up be region, this list features campgrounds and their facilities plus advice to help you plan your camping trip.

Best Oregon Coast Hotels

Arch+Cape+Inn+Oregon+Coast+_+Image+source_+Booking

Arch Cape Inn is a unique European inspired retreat located on the Oregon coast between Cannon Beach and Manzanita near Hug Point. The beautiful boutique inn offer many activities to plan the perfect coastal getaway.

Whale+Cove+Inn+Oregon+Coast+_+Image+source_+Booking

Whale Cove Inn is one of the most exclusive luxury boutique inns on the Oregon coast, located in Depoe Bay. With jaw-dropping views, onsite dining and activities, you’ll have everything you need to plan a luxury vacation.

Tu+Tu'+Tun+Lodge+Oregon+Coast+_+Image+source_+Tu+Tu'+Tun

Located slightly inland on the Rogue River, Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge is a magical place to immerse yourself in nature. They offer rooms, suites and houses to accommodate groups of many sizes. Plus plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay.

Stay in a Yurt by the beach!

The Oregon State Parks program has a handful of yurts that are available for rent along the coast:

Beverly Beach State Park

Umpqua Lighthouse State Park

Devil’s Lake (near Lincoln City)

Fort Stevens State Park

For more information, check out this brochure .

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Are you planning a trip to Oregon?

Being that Oregon is our home state, we have TONS of content to help you plan your trip. Start with our Oregon Homepage and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!

  • Check out all the weirdly awesome things to do in Portland .
  • You’ll wanna keep this guide handy if you’re passing through Astoria, Oregon .
  • Read up on all the fun things to do in Cannon Beach .
  • Read this if you’ll be making your way through Yachats, Oregon .
  • You’ll want to keep this road trip planning guide handy.
  • Just in case, here’s an itinerary for an epic Oregon road trip . 
  • And you’ll want to hang on to this list of our favorite things to do in Oregon .

Save this article for later on Pinterest!

Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip | Two Wandering Soles

We want to hear from you!

Are you planning an Oregon coast road trip? What areas sound most appealing to you? What questions do you still have? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you! 

Comments (21) on “ Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!) ”

I travel solo since my husband passed away and most of the time in Europe. I would like to do a road trip by myself and have always wanted to drive along the Oregon Coast and thinking of doing it this coming August. Would this be a good time to do it? How many days would it take to see everything? Thank you so much for sharing your awesome pictures and information and ideas about the Oregon Coast. I would appreciate any advice.

My mom lived in the Willamette Valley for a period of time as a kid. She loves Oregon and has gone often, but not in 30+ years. We vacationed there when I was 14 and 18, then once Mr. T. and I took my mom and grandmother when Josh was about 4 months old (he went too). The itinerary was always the same, fly into Portland, drive up to Mount Hood and see it, stay at that Dam Hotel while look at the Dalles, then through the mountains and Salem down to Eugene to cut over to the coast arriving in Florence and staying at the Driftwood Hotel. No reservations after that as we worked our way up the coast (finding hotels as we went) stopping at Newport Beach, Devil’s Punchbowl, Devil’s Elbow, etc. up to Tillamook and then back to Portland to fly home. It is beautiful. So.. now I am thinking about it. I think I would change it up to where it was primarily the coast maybe getting a vacation rental midway between Florence and Tillamook or similar or two vacation rental destinations and satellite out of those versus the find a hotel along the way concept. I need to confirm the weather for the window we are considering. Mr. T. states he knows I’d love it, he thinks if my mom could go anywhere in the world, that is where she would choose and that we can’t go without taking my parents. BUT unless things have changed in the last 30+ years, not sure it is an option as I don’t know mobility and access wise that it works for my parents. And I’d hate for her to be upset that we went without her. Thoughts on how if this would be a good or bad plan to take my parents? They are in their 80s, they can do some walking, but it would be somewhat limited. Also thoughts on a mid-point (or 2 points) to satellite out of it? Thanks so much!

I just wanted to say thank you for this very detailed post. I used so many of your suggestions on our family’s first trip to Oregon’s northern coast last summer. I am back again to look at your ideas for the southern coast this time!

I’ve been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thank you, I will try and check back more often. How frequently you update your website?

Hello friends, thanks for this very informative article. We’re going to put it to good use. But we need advice. We will be taking a road trip from Seattle to California on the Oregon coast, we want to make a detour and visit Portland for a few days but looking at the map we realize we might miss the northern part of the coast. Where would you recommend we turn inland and where to rejoin the beach on the way back from Portland. Thank you for your time it is greatly appreciated

Hello! I’m surprising my husband for his birthday by taking him on a road trip on the Oregon Coast. We live in Auburn, CA and plan on driving up to Portland and then over to the coast. I’m looking for a trip planning guide of cool spots. I love your blog and would love to have a print out of the best spots to stop. We will have 5 days to explore the coast. Any ideas? Thanks!

We are planning a last minute spring break trip with two boys (10 and 12) from Portland to SF for a 5 day trip, not sure where to book the hotel (what location) if we are driving on Thursday morning from Astoria towards SF to get there on Sunday morning., Can you please help?

Great Blog! I am planning a trip along the Oregon Coast this Sept. Staying for a few days in Astoria. From there visit Fort Clapsop (sp), driving to Seaside (maybe) and Cannon Beach from Astoria. Then off to Tillmook, Lebanon and then Bend and finally back home in Seattle. Since I am driving what do you suggest to get my car in order for the drive. Any information for the areas I mentioned on COVID status. Besides staying away from people and wearing a mask. I would need to eat 3 meals out every day on my trip. I can’t download anything these days so could you send anything to my email please.

Will be visiting Oregon for the first time this July. How do I receive the free map? I am a little overwhelmed, there are soooo many beautiful sights that I am interested in seeing. We will have 4 days on the coast and then down to the tip of California to the Redwoods and then up to Crater Lake.

Just say no to Oregon. Too cold on the beach, too hot in the high desert. Too many druggies, too many liberals. And a governor who’s nuts.

This is amazing y’all! I am a traveling nurse staying in Boise, Idaho at the moment. I’m driving to the Cannon Beach area tomorrow, Friday, September 3 and am staying through Monday, September 6. I have a yurt in that area for the entire length of the stay but would like to drive up and down the coast to see as much as possible in those three days. Is there a specific route y’all would suggest I take? I’m trying to time it as best I can to see as much as I can. I was thinking of starting on a northern end and making my way down. What do you think? I will have Friday afternoon, all of Saturday and Sunday, and a small portion of Monday morning. Any advice is so appreciated. Thank you so much!!!

Being off and on an Oregon Coast Resident (Grew up in Tillamook, worked for Lincoln City and Coos Bay, Lived in Newport) and worked for Oregon State Parks, i thought I could offer some tips. In most of the cities (they may be small, but still a city) deal with things on the right side of 101 as you go through town, then turn around and go back and do the same. It is a lot easier than trying to cross the highway on foot.

Lay over on summer weekends and stay off 101. It is just a parking lot anyway, and your time is better spent looking at something interesting.

Astoria, Newport, Florence, Coos Bay, Bandon, and Brookings have good things off the road and worth exploring. Bandon’s Golf Course is world famous. Cranberry Bogs are along the southern coast. Gold Beach had gold rush. Fort Stevens on the north coast was fired on by the Japanese in WWII. More symbolic than damaging. A fire balloon landed east of Brookings in WWII. Inspect the Blimp hangers at Tillamook. One of 6 such installations in the United States. Sized to house 6 inflated US Navy blimps. Largest wood framed buildings in world when constructed. A small air plane has flown through one. Lewis and Clark wintered over just south of Astoria. A trail connects that site to Fort Stevens. Look at Bay Ocean, a town that washed away into the Pacific.

Great post but wish you wouldn’t promote crab catching. Very abusive. Also you seem bent on sustainable things so why fish or eat fish?

Great blog! My husband and I heading out from Portland tomorrow. Even though we’re both native Oregonians, we haven’t seen many of the places you mention. I do have to say you missed a gem in Florence though. The Waterfront Depot is great, we’ve had the crab encrusted halibut (yum) and arroz con marisco bowl. Both are excellent dishes!

Wow! This post is absolutely packed full of anything anyone might want to know about an Oregon Coast road trip. So well done!!! Thank you for taking the time.

Wooow, such detailed and informative post and so many stunning landscape pictures. I´m also getting hungry now haha, cause the food looks amazing as well. To be honest I had no clue this part of the West coast is so nice?! Looks like an awesome road trip 🙂

It was an awesome road trip! The Oregon Coast is so nice to visit. Sorry (but not really 😉 to make you hungry, the food was just too good not to share!

wowo, what a comprehensive article with so many details and great tips! Even for me who calls Portland her home for 15 months still lots of new places to discover. 😉

I know what you mean! There is so much to see and do on the Oregon Coast! We’ve been living in Oregon for 12 months and I feel like our list just keeps growing!

Tillamook Ice Cream is the absolute greatest! Best tip ever to grab some in Oregon!

Yes! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! SO GOOD!

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east coast victoria road trip

USC Athletics

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Mia Fleming vs. Hofstra

3/8/2024 | 1:00 PM

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Game Recap: Women's Lacrosse | March 05, 2024

No. 17 USC Lacrosse Ends Road Trip with a Win over VCU

The women of troy move to 4-1 this season on the east coast and 21-21 all-time in the eastern time zone.

  •  Senior  Maggie Brown was the goals leader for the Trojans, as she posted five goals in the first half for the Women of the Troy. Redshirt junior Isabelle Vitale posted the most points with six (two goals & four assists).
  • Redshirt freshman Hannah Barron scored her first career goal at 12:52 in the third quarter. Barron also picked up four ground balls, caused one turnover, and had one draw control. 
  • The Women of Troy used three goalies in the game. Highlighting the group was junior Mia Fleming , who filled in after VCU converted four shots into four goals. Fleming allowed six goals in 30 minutes of play and accumulated two saves. 
  • Freshman Anna Regan dominated the circle as she successfully won 14 draw controls. 
  • Graduate transfer Kayla Frank caused two turnovers and picked up one ground ball in the win. 
  •  Right out to the gate, the offenses were showing out in this game, as USC cashed in on their first goal just 43 seconds into the game. Senior Shelby Tilton was the first to find the net, picking up one of her two goals in the quarter. VCU would tie at 13:30, but the Trojans offense was unhappy about that. In slightly over five minutes, USC scored six straight goals, as Brown secured a hat trick in the first with three of the six, while Tilton picked up the sixth goal at 5:01. The Rams would minimize the damage with three straight goals, but the first quarter would end 7-4. The Women of Troy earned these numbers as they were four-for-four on free-position shots in the first and overall outshot VCU 10-6, eight of which were on goal. 
  • The second quarter was much the same, as USC secured six more goals, and the Rams posted a 3-0 run to finish the quarter. Brown was at the forefront with two of those goals, as well as junior Maddie Dora , senior Ella Heaney , and Vitale. The Trojans initially started on a 6-0 run, with their first goal at 12:45 and their last goal at 6:57. While USC continued its offensive onslaught, VCU's defense picked itself up with five saves. All that work came from the Ram's backup goalie, who entered the game after USC scored its seventh goal in the first quarter. 
  • The third quarter was pretty tame compared to the other quarters, as both teams posted three goals apiece. However, it was a quarter of firsts, as Barron posted her first career goal at 12:52, and junior Christina Gagnon scored her first goal of the season at :03. On the defensive side, USC forced six turnovers and picked up seven ground balls in the quarter. 
  • For most of the fourth, it was an opportunity for the younger players to get some in-game experience. Freshman goalkeeper Annie Shields got her first two career saves as she started the fourth quarter for the Women of Troy. Redshirt sophomore Callie Cirilli added her second career goal, scoring on a behind-the-back shot for the lone goal from the Trojans in the fourth at 6:15. 
  • USC is now 21-21 on the East Coast and 62-31 in road games. 
  • The Women of Troy are 116-18 against IWLCA unranked teams all-time. 
  • USC played VCU for the first time in program history. The Trojans are 3-1 this season when they play an opponent they have never played before. 
  • Anna Regan's 14 draw controls is tied for the fifth most in a game in USC history. The freshman now has 57 for the season.

Players Mentioned

Hannah Barron

#15 Hannah Barron

Maggie Brown

#21 Maggie Brown

Callie Cirilli

#4 Callie Cirilli

Maddie Dora

#6 Maddie Dora

Mia Fleming

#25 Mia Fleming

Christina Gagnon

#8 Christina Gagnon

Ella Heaney

#10 Ella Heaney

Shelby Tilton

#5 Shelby Tilton

Isabelle Vitale

#1 Isabelle Vitale

Annie  Shields

#51 Annie Shields

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    Road to Halls Gap. 7. Melbourne to Grampians National Park. Distance: 335 km one way (Melbourne to Dunkeld and then Halls Gap) Recommended time: 3 days. One of my favourite places in Victoria, a road trip to the Grampians National Park is a must.

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    Suggested time for Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays: 2-5 days. Driving distance from Townsville to Airlie Beach: 273km (3h10) Airlie Beach is the gateway to The Whitsundays, and this stop is a must-do on any East Coast road trip itinerary. Make sure to read my detailed guide to visiting the Whitsunday Islands here.

  19. Ultimate Road Trip on the East Coast of Australia (2024)

    East Coast Road Trip Route and Important Information. The journey kicks off from the southern region of Victoria, gradually making its way northward towards Queensland. This route spans three distinct states: Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. To enhance the travel experience, I have segmented the road trip into two parts.

  20. Road Trip Route Planner, Map and Trip Guides

    The ultimate road trip planner to help you discover extraordinary places, book hotels, and share itineraries all from the map. ... Improve this map; Remove Ads. Start New Trip. Share Map. Start New Trip. Trip Guides. About; Membership; Magazine; Contact; Help; Did you know: If you use the Roadtrippers mobile app, your trips will instantly auto ...

  21. Road Trip Planner

    The Trippy road trip planner automatically calculates the optimal itinerary including stops recommended by Trippy members, favorite restaurants and hotels, local attractions and things to do based on what people who live in the area have suggested, and more. Once you have a quick trip planned, you can customize every detail, adding or removing ...

  22. Epic family road trip: 5 scenic drives to take this summer

    Delaware: New Castle to Fenwick Island. Explore the entire length of the state on this 100-mile road trip. In New Castle, hop on the Bayshore Byway, a scenic two-lane road that hugs the Delaware ...

  23. Take A Scenic Drive Along The East Coast On This Must-Do US Road Trip Route

    Somehow, Ocracoke Island remains one of the best kept secrets on the East Coast. The entire island is only 16 miles long and 3 miles wide and was once a favorite hideout of the notorious pirate ...

  24. 7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

    The Northeast is the perfect region for a road trip. Filled with diverse cities and towns, the East Coast offers ski resorts, beaches, attractions, history, and so much more. Road trips can be a ...

  25. Driving Distance Calculator

    Travelmath helps you find driving distances based on actual directions for your road trip. You can get the distance between cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes to figure out the best route to travel to your destination. Combine this information with the fuel cost tool to find out how much it will cost you to drive the distance, or ...

  26. Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (+ Free Map!)

    Astoria. At a Glance: Harbor town with history & a good food and beer scene. Driving to Astoria from Portland: 98 miles / 1 hour 50 minutes. This quaint riverside town on the very northern edge of the Oregon coast has a special, unpretentious kind of charm. We've heard people describe it as a "small San Francisco".

  27. No. 17 USC Lacrosse Ends Road Trip with a Win over VCU

    RICHMOND, Va. - No. 17 ranked USC lacrosse (5-2) wrapped up its East Coast road trip with a 17-14 win over VCU (1-5) on Tuesday, Mar. 5 at Cary Street Field. KEY PLAYERS: Senior Maggie Brown was the goals leader for the Trojans, as she posted five goals in the first half for the Women of the Troy. Redshirt junior Isabelle Vitale posted the most points with six (two goals & four assists).