The Best Coastal Road Trips in Australia to Take with Your Caravan

Australia is blessed with a vast and varied coastline, offering some of the most breathtaking road trips in the world. From the tropical shores of Queensland to the rugged cliffs of Western Australia, the country’s coastal routes offer caravan travellers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing sun-drenched beaches, marine life, or charming seaside towns, these road trips provide unforgettable experiences for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best coastal road trips in Australia to take with your caravan.

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

One of Australia’s most iconic road trips, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford, offering unparalleled views of the Southern Ocean. This winding coastal drive is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, rainforest scenery, and picturesque beaches. The Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering limestone stacks, is a highlight, but you’ll also encounter charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, which are perfect stops for caravanners.

Best Caravan Parks:

BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park: Positioned with stunning ocean views.
Torquay Holiday Park: Perfect for a starting point to explore the coastline.

Must-See Attractions:

Twelve Apostles: A world-renowned natural wonder.
Great Otway National Park: Home to lush rainforests and waterfalls.
Loch Ard Gorge: Another spectacular coastal feature steeped in maritime history.

Pacific Coast, New South Wales & Queensland

The Pacific Coast road trip from Sydney to Brisbane (or the other way around) offers caravanners a stunning journey through some of Australia’s best coastal towns and beaches. Stretching over 900 kilometres, the route takes you through the beautiful Central Coast, the vibrant city of Newcastle, the bohemian town of Byron Bay, and the Gold Coast’s famous beaches.

Best Caravan Parks:

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort in Umina Beach: Ideal for those seeking tranquillity by the ocean.
Reflections Holiday Parks Byron Bay: Perfect for exploring the Northern Rivers region.

Must-See Attractions:

Hunter Valley: Known for its wineries and gourmet food.
Coffs Harbour: Visit the Big Banana and enjoy the tropical weather.
Gold Coast Theme Parks: Fun for families and thrill-seekers alike.

The Coral Coast, Western Australia

If you’re seeking adventure, the Coral Coast is a road trip that offers some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes in Australia. Starting in Perth and heading north to Exmouth, this route spans over 1,100 kilometres of coastline, home to turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and unique wildlife. You’ll encounter the Ningaloo Reef, one of the world’s largest fringing reefs, where you can swim with whale sharks and manta rays.

Best Caravan Parks:

RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park: Ideal for exploring Ningaloo Reef.
Coral Bay Caravan Park: Situated near the stunning Coral Bay.

Must-See Attractions:

Pinnacles Desert: A surreal landscape of limestone formations.
Monkey Mia: Famous for its friendly dolphins.
Ningaloo Reef: Perfect for snorkelling, diving, and marine wildlife spotting.

The Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

The Eyre Peninsula offers a less-travelled but equally rewarding coastal road trip. Known for its rugged coastline and abundant seafood, this route spans from Port Augusta down to Port Lincoln, looping through quaint coastal towns. Travelling with your caravan gives you the freedom to explore remote beaches, taste the region’s famous oysters, and possibly even swim with sea lions or go cage diving with great white sharks.

Best Caravan Parks:

Port Lincoln Tourist Park: With waterfront views of Boston Bay.
Streaky Bay Foreshore Tourist Park: Set on a beautiful beachfront.

Must-See Attractions:

Coffin Bay: Famous for oysters and stunning national parks.
Whalers Way: A dramatic stretch of coastline with fascinating geological features.
Baird Bay: Swim with sea lions and dolphins for an unforgettable experience.

Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania

For those keen to explore Australia’s southernmost state, the Tasman Peninsula offers a road trip filled with history and jaw-dropping coastal views. Starting in Hobart, this route takes you through Eaglehawk Neck, with its striking rock formations, and on to the famous Port Arthur Historic Site. The scenery here is rugged yet serene, making it a perfect escape for caravanners who love peace and nature.

Best Caravan Parks:

BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park: Convenient for the start or end of your trip.
White Beach Tourist Park: Peaceful and close to Port Arthur.

Must-See Attractions:

Port Arthur Historic Site: One of Australia’s most significant convict sites.
Tasman Arch & Devil’s Kitchen: Spectacular coastal rock formations.
Cape Raoul: A challenging yet rewarding hike with incredible views.

Sunshine Coast to Fraser Island, Queensland

The Sunshine Coast to Fraser Island is a road trip that combines stunning beaches, charming hinterland towns, and the world’s largest sand island. Starting in Noosa, known for its surf beaches and national parks, the route takes you north to Rainbow Beach, where you can catch a ferry to Fraser Island. On Fraser Island, caravanners can experience 4WD adventures, pristine lakes, and ancient rainforests.

Best Caravan Parks:

Noosa River Holiday Park: Perfect for exploring Noosa’s waterways.
Fraser Island Beachfront Camping: Experience nature up close.

Must-See Attractions:

Noosa National Park: Known for its coastal walks and wildlife.
Fraser Island: Swim in the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie or explore the island’s famous sand dunes.
Cooloola Recreation Area: Known for its coloured sands and great fishing spots.

East Coast of Tasmania

Tasmania’s East Coast is renowned for its quiet beaches, charming villages, and diverse wildlife. Starting in Hobart, this coastal road trip takes you up to Bay of Fires, passing through stunning locations like Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay. With beautiful beachside caravan parks, this trip offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for caravanners.

Best Caravan Parks:

Swansea Holiday Park: Located in the heart of Tasmania’s east coast.
BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park: A great spot to explore the Bay of Fires.

Must-See Attractions:

Wineglass Bay: Known for its perfect crescent-shaped beach.
Bay of Fires: Famous for its orange lichen-covered rocks and clear blue waters.
Maria Island: A wildlife haven, accessible by ferry for a day trip.

The Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania

Another gem in Tasmania, the Great Eastern Drive is a scenic route that hugs the island’s eastern coastline, offering breathtaking views at every turn. This journey is perfect for caravan enthusiasts wanting to experience world-class beaches, fresh seafood, and iconic landmarks like Wineglass Bay. From the rolling green hills to the sapphire waters, the Great Eastern Drive is an unforgettable experience.

Best Caravan Parks:

BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park: Nestled near Freycinet National Park.
Swansea Beach Chalets: Offers stunning ocean views and access to beautiful beaches.

Must-See Attractions:

Freycinet National Park: A must-see for hikers and beach lovers.
Bicheno Blowhole: A natural wonder that never disappoints.
Devil’s Corner: Stop for wine and panoramic coastal views.

Sydney to Jervis Bay, New South Wales

A short but sweet coastal road trip, the Sydney to Jervis Bay route offers stunning coastal landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and world-renowned white-sand beaches. Jervis Bay is home to Hyams Beach, often claimed to have the whitest sand in the world. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful national parks, charming seaside villages, and lookout points with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.

Best Caravan Parks:

Jervis Bay Holiday Park: A great base to explore the region.
Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach: Located right on the waterfront.

Must-See Attractions:

Hyams Beach: Known for its powdery white sand.
Booderee National Park: A haven for birdwatchers and bushwalkers.
Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours: Jervis Bay is renowned for its marine life.

Australia’s diverse coastline offers endless opportunities for memorable caravan road trips, whether you prefer the laid-back beaches of Queensland, the wild beauty of Western Australia, or the cool temperate shores of Tasmania. Each route offers something unique, from coastal walks and marine life encounters to historic towns and mouth-watering seafood.

No matter which coastal road trip you choose, Australia’s coastal beauty and the freedom of travelling with your caravan ensure an unforgettable journey.

Conclusion

Australia’s coastal road trips offer an extraordinary mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation for caravan enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the famous Great Ocean Road, the pristine shores of the Coral Coast, or the tranquil beaches of Tasmania, each route offers unique experiences—from breathtaking landscapes to vibrant wildlife encounters. With the convenience and flexibility of travelling by caravan, these coastal journeys promise unforgettable memories, no matter your destination.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What are some must-see attractions along the Great Ocean Road?
Highlights of the Great Ocean Road include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the lush rainforests of Great Otway National Park. Seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay are also popular stops for caravanners.

2. Is the Coral Coast suitable for off-road caravan adventures?
Yes, the Coral Coast in Western Australia offers rugged terrain and pristine natural beauty, including the Ningaloo Reef and Pinnacles Desert, making it a great choice for off-road caravan enthusiasts.

3. Can I explore Fraser Island with a caravan?
While you can’t directly tow caravans on Fraser Island, you can set up camp at Rainbow Beach and catch a ferry to the island. Once there, you can explore Fraser Island with a 4WD and enjoy its unique landscapes.

4. What are the best caravan parks for a trip along the Pacific Coast?
Some recommended parks include NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort in Umina Beach and Reflections Holiday Parks Byron Bay, offering great access to the Pacific Coast’s beautiful beaches and attractions.

5. What makes Tasmania’s East Coast a great caravan destination?
Tasmania’s East Coast offers stunning coastal scenery, peaceful beach towns, and attractions like Freycinet National Park and Bay of Fires, making it perfect for caravanners looking for both adventure and relaxation.