Best of AUSTRALIA
The 5 Best Family-Friendly Road Trips in Australia
Curated countdown of the highest-rated, safest, and most engaging family road trips in Australia with plenty of kid-friendly stops.
Indian Ocean South: Shipwrecks & Dolphins
A breathtaking coastal journey starting from the historic port of Fremantle, winding through the maritime history of Coogee, the dolphin-rich waters of Rockingham, and culminating in the serene, canal-laced waterways of Mandurah. This route is a masterclass in Western Australian coastal beauty, blending industrial maritime heritage with pristine marine sanctuaries.
“Always check the weather and swell reports before heading to the Coogee Maritime Trail; if the wind is blowing from the west, the visibility underwater will be significantly reduced.”
Capital to Coast: Canberra to Jervis Bay
A breathtaking journey from the high-altitude elegance of Australia's capital through historic pastoral lands to the world's whitest sands.
“Beware of wildlife at dawn and dusk; kangaroos and wombats are extremely active along the Kings Highway and can cause serious accidents.”
Fraser Coast: Humpback & Turtle Trail
Embark on an evocative journey through the heart of Queensland's aquatic wonderland. This road trip spans the vibrant sugar-cane landscapes of Bundaberg to the world-renowned whale-watching sanctuary of Hervey Bay. Along the way, you will traverse sun-drenched coastal hamlets, encounter ancient marine life, and witness the meeting of the river and the reef. It is a route designed for slow travel, where the rhythm of the tides dictates your schedule and the hospitality of the locals warms your soul.
“Book your Mon Repos turtle encounter months in advance if traveling between November and March; tickets sell out almost instantly.”
Phillip Island: Grand Prix & Penguins
An immersive journey through Victoria's premier wildlife and motorsport destination, tracing the rugged coastline from the north-facing beaches of Cowes to the fishing village of San Remo.
“Beware of wildlife at dusk: Phillip Island has a high density of wallabies and penguins. Avoid driving at night if possible, or reduce speed significantly to 40-50 km/h in marked zones.”
Gippsland Lakes: Waterland Odyssey
A breathtaking voyage through the Southern Hemisphere’s largest inland waterway system, where vast coastal lagoons meet the wild Bass Strait.
“Beware of wildlife at dawn and dusk; the Gippsland region is home to high concentrations of kangaroos and wombats that frequently cross the roads near the lakes.”