Want to get out of the city but don’t know where to go? While overseas travel is still off the agenda, we can take advantage of the many wonders nestled across Australia and head out on a family road trip.
Below are some of our top picks for road trips and detour hot spots, all of them great when you’ve got the kids in tow.
Mossman, QueenslandÂ
We’ll start our road trips countdown up in the tropical Far North Queensland. Cairns to Cape Tribulation to be exact. The drive from Cairns to Port Douglas is insanely amazing (I can vouch for it, I live in Cairns!) with sea views for DAYS (okay, not days).
Mossman is the perfect detour. It’s a picturesque little town nestled at the foot of the mountains among bright green fields of sugar cane. When visiting the town, you can’t miss the World Heritage-listed site, Mossman Gorge, ideal for a quick dip in one of the freshwater swimming holes.
Crescent Head, New South Wales
Moving down the coast we get to Crescent Heat. This easy-going surfside town is just under five hours north of Sydney. It’s an ideal stop if trekking from Coffs Harbour or Byron Bay,
What makes Crescent Head so spectacular is the beautiful sandy beaches and lush national parks, ideal for ALL out outdoor activities – walking, camping, whale watching. Family memories here we come!
Bingi, New South Wales
Bingi is a long stretch of coastline on the south coast of New South Wales, which runs between Moruya and Tuross Heads. The Bingi Bingi Point is the perfect spot for scenic views, swimming and fishing, with golden beaches surrounded by untamed bushland and jagged rock formations.
There is also a 14-kilometre walking track if you’re game. The track passes through different types of coastal habitat and stops for picnics or swimming. It’s definitely worth the effort but make sure you pack lots of snacks for the kids!
Apollo Bay, Victoria
We can’t have a best road trip post and NOT include the Great Ocean Road! And Apollo Bay doesn’t disappoint!
The scenic drive will offer awesome views of sandy beaches below your clifftop route. To get a panoramic view of the town and the bay, take a drive to Cape Otway Lightstation to see Australia’s most famous lighthouse and Barham River Road for grassy hills and lush rainforest.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
We’re moving into South Australia now and taking the Adelaide to Cape Jervis route. This scenic drive is next level and Kangaroo Island should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Stretch your legs and get your taste buds buzzing in the world-famous McLaren Vale wine region. With over 17 hikes, quad biking, adventure caving and art galleries there is a little something spesh for everyone in the car.
Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory
If you find yourself in Northern Territory this summer, we highly recommend taking a drive to Litchfield National Park. Located south of Darwin, Litchfield National Park is possibly the Northern Territory’s best-kept secret.
The park is filled with stunning waterfalls and cool water holes that are surrounded by walkways and termite mounds. One of the most popular and easily accessible swimming spots in the park is Wangi Falls, which is a sacred waterfall and plunge pool surrounded by lush, monsoonal rainforest.
Walker Creek also has its own secluded campsites and private swimming spot. How’s the serenity?
Penguin, Tasmania
Finally, let’s trek down to Tasmania. The coastal road between Ulverstone and Wynyard is a beautiful scenic drive with sweeping ocean views and great picnic spots. Our top spot to stop? Penguin.
This picturesque seaside town is located on the north-west coast of Tasmania. When entering the town you won’t miss the 10-foot fibreglass penguin that resides on the beachfront, which stands as a monument to the feathered friends.
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