Is there anything better than hitting the open road with your favourite people and visiting the most beautiful places in Australia? Whether you’re craving coastal views, outback wonders, or a lush rainforest escape, make this weekend the best one yet with an ‘Australian Weekend Road Trip’.

This guide will share with you the seven greatest routes to embark upon on your next road trip, which are an absolute must for the bucket list. These road trips are perfect for anyone, whether it’s a romantic date weekend, with families wanting a getaway or with your closest friends who want to venture to new places.

Are you ready to discover new places to go?

1. The Sydney To Eden Road Trip

Distance: ~475 km
Time: ~6 – 6.5 hrs
Start Point:  Sydney, NSW
End Point:  Eden, NSW

Highlights:

Eden is a beautiful coastal town in the South Coast region of NSW. Eden has some of the most magical beaches for swimming, but is also most well-known for the occasional humpback whale appearances. If that captures your attention, there are unforgettable whale-watching experiences that can be booked through various cruise lines, which allow you to get up close and personal with the humpbacks. This is a highly recommended experience that will take your average weekend plans and turn them into an adventure.

Eden also features other exciting activities such as gorgeous hiking trails and mountain bike riding tracks. The drive from Sydney is a great scenic road trip, and can easily include a stopover in Canberra, if you adjust the route slightly. With fantastic views of the water, it remains one of the best ways to see the other beautiful parts of the New South Wales’ coastline.

Stops we recommend:

Sydney To Eden Map

2. The Grand Pacific Drive Road Trip

Distance: ~170 km
Time: ~2 hrs and 15 mins
Start Point: Royal National Park, NSW
End Point: Jervis Bay, NSW

Highlights:

Another one for the Sydneysiders, the Grand Pacific Drive is a shorter, but nevertheless, a stunning road trip. This drive takes you through the coastal towns of NSW, starting conveniently from 36 km out of the Sydney CBD, and providing many activities to stop at along the way. It begins at Royal National Park and takes you through the Sea Cliff Bridge, a must-see photo stop, Bald Hill lookout, the Wollongong beaches and rainforest drives. Finally, the road trip concludes at Jervis Bay, which is a stunning place to explore with a partner, friends or the whole family. Along the bay, there are many towns and beaches that you can stay at for overnight trips.

Stops we recommend:

Grand Pacific Drive Map

3. Coral Coast Highway Road Trip

Distance: ~1,250 km
Time: ~13 hrs
Start Point: Perth, WA
End Point: Exmouth, WA

Highlights:

The Coral Coast Highway road trip is a nature lover’s dream, showcasing WA’s turquoise coastline and red-dirt landscapes. Pack your snorkel and sense of wonder. If you are up for an adventure, then this is the road trip for you. Ningaloo Reef is where you have the opportunity to swim with whale sharks and live on the edge (with safety). The coral coast also offers a relaxing destination, with the calm, turquoise water filled with bright coloured fish; there is no better place for relaxation. Given it’s a long drive, best to book a stay or two along the way and make a nice weekend out of the trip.

 Stops we recommend:

 Coral Coast Highway Map

4. The Great Ocean Road Trip

Distance: ~250 km
Time: ~4 hrs
Start Point:  Torquay, VIC
End Point: Warnambool, VIC

Highlights:

One of the most famous Victorian road trips, the Great Ocean Road, offers clifftop views, a dramatic coastline, and small-town charm. This destination has many attractions, such as the 12 Apostles with breathtaking sights, as well as a wide array of surf towns if you love to catch a wave. The Great Ocean Road trip also has a beautiful national park called Loch Ard Gorge, where you can have a scenic walk and look at nature’s natural beauty.

 Stops we recommend:

Great Ocean Road Map

5. The Adelaide To Uluru Road Trip

Distance: ~1,600 km
Time: ~16.5 hrs
Start Point:  Adelaide, SA
End Point: Uluru, NT

Highlights:

Uluru offers landscapes that you will remember forever. The ultimate Aussie outback attraction, this Adelaide to Uluru road trip is an unforgettable drive through desert landscapes, cultural history, and remote beauty. Whilst it is a 16-hour journey, the travel time is very much worthwhile. Uluru has sunset views with the rock changing colours and offers the Mala Walk, learning about the land. If you are looking for a place to stay during your road trip to Uluru, visit the famous Faye’s underground home for a cool new underground experience.

Stops we recommend:

Adelaide To Uluru Map

6. Launceston To Hobart Road Trip

Distance: ~200 km
Time: ~2 hrs and 20 mins
Start Point:  Launceston, TAS
End Point:  Hobart, TAS

Highlights:

Tasmania’s east coast is filled with rolling hills, gourmet food stops, and quiet coastal roads. The perfect blend of indulgence and natural beauty, not only is it a sight to see, but this destination also comes with many activities. You can explore the Tasmanian wildlife at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, an opportunity to learn and see the amazing animals of Tasmania. They also have Ben Lomond National Park, Hike to the summit for panoramic views, or you can even explore the park’s trails, a way to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery after a long drive. 

Stops we recommend:

Launceston To Hobart Map

7. Brisbane To Noosa Road Trip

Distance: ~150 km
Time: ~2 – 2.5 hrs
Start Point: Brisbane, QLD
End Point: Noosa Heads, QLD

Highlights:

This Brisbane to Noosa road trip is short, sunny, and full of good vibes. Perfect for families or a last-minute weekend escape. Highlights of this road trip would be visiting the one-of-a-kind view at Glass House Mountains, exploring Kondalilla National Park and its mesmerising waterfalls, and enjoying the beaches and markets of the Sunshine Coast.

Stops we recommend:

Brisbane To Noosa Map

What To Prepare Before Your Next Road Trip

Before setting off on your next adventure, take a few quick steps to avoid running into trouble while on the road:

  • Check your tyre pressure and tread depth
  • Test the battery and replace it if it’s weak
  • Top up engine oil, coolant, and wiper fluid
  • Make sure your lights, indicators, and brakes are working
  • Pack an emergency kit (including jumper cables, water, and first aid

Consider booking a full vehicle inspection before your next long drive, or explore Ultra Tune’s Roadside Assistance options if you’re going remote or interstate.

Booking A Service With Ultra Tune

Planning your next road trip? Let Ultra Tune help get your vehicle road trip ready with expert checks and fast, friendly service. Find your nearest Ultra Tune here, before the adventure begins. Trust the team that helps all Australians travel safely on the road.