6 of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives
While the deserts might give Australia its ‘sunburnt country’ moniker, the coastal scenery is often just as spectacular. And the best way to see it is on four wheels.
Here are six of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives.
1. The Great Ocean Road (Victoria)
Sitting on a stretch of 243 of the most scenic kilometres on the south-eastern coast of Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a must for anyone visiting that part of the world, featuring lush rainforests, quaint, coastal towns and of course the captivating 12 Apostles.
2. Pacific Coast Touring Route (NSW)
Taking in some of the best tourist haunts in the Waratah state, the Pacific Coast Touring Route gives you a change to visit the lush Central Coast hinterland, Hunter Valley wineries and picturesque inlets of Port Stephens. The perfect route for a long weekend.
3. Grand Pacific Drive (NSW)
And the view in the other direction is just as good! Starting at the Royal National Park, the Grand Pacific Drive takes you through scenic coastland and rainforests, as well as giving you the chance to pop into town like Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama.
4. Indian Ocean Drive (WA)
On the other side of the country is the beautiful Indian Ocean Drive, which gives you a chance to see some of West Australia’s most picturesque sights, from white beaches to salty fishing towns and rugged national parks. A journey on WA’s Coral Coast is a must!
5. Great Sunshine Way (Queensland)
This route takes you through some of the real highlights of Queensland, letting you visit surf beaches and some of the best beaches in the world, while still being able to enjoy the hinterland of the Gold Coast and the rich, vibrant atmosphere in Brisbane.
6. The Great Tropical Drive (Queensland)
The drive from Cairns to Townsville is one to savour, taking you through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests and letting you really taking in Queensland’s tropical splendour.
Have you been on any of these drives? Let us know in the comments.
Related links:
4WD adventure on the Gibb River Road
Driving the spectacular Stuart Highway
At 69 I rode a motorbike across America