From breathtaking coastal landscapes to rugged outdoor adventures, Australia is an ideal family road trip destination for everyone.
When you think about family-friendly vacation spots, Australia easily comes up top. Having personally explored the vibrant city life of Melbourne and Sydney, as well as the stunning wildlife of Queensland, we know firsthand that this continent has something for everyone. The perfect way to immerse yourself in the best of the land Down Under? An unforgettable trip on wheels, of course! Imagine the freedom of exploring hidden gems and iconic landmarks at your own pace, while clocking in quality family time. So, buckle up as we share three must-visit Australian road trip destinations for your next family adventure.
Best road trip destinations in Australia for families
1. Jam-packed with things to do and see: New South Wales and Canberra
Kids can’t sit still? With under-the-radar activities at every turn, this road trip destination will give them plenty to stay busy. Suit up, step inside an apiary, and live your beekeeper dreams at Bowral Beekeeping. This fascinating activity is led by a passionate beekeeper and includes a delicious honey tasting experience.
Another unique spot is Iris Lodge Alpaca for a taste of Aussie farm life. Set in the picturesque countryside, the farm lets you meet friendly alpacas, llamas and sheep amid lush pastures. Prefer the allure of the ocean? Head to Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters for a deep dive into ocean ecosystems and up-close encounters with marine life like reef sharks and smooth rays.
Just a three-hour drive away lies Australia’s capital, Canberra, which beckons with rich history and culture. How about hopping on an eco-friendly GoBoat to experience the city from a different lens? With no boat licence required, you’re free to charter your course on Lake Burley Griffin. Make it a family outing with up to eight pax – and furry friends – welcome onboard!
Nope, you’re not seeing things. Thanks to the wonders of technology, from April to August, Corin Forest transforms into a snowy spot in Canberra’s backyard. Don your warm puffers, race on toboggans, build snowmen, and slide through the majestic Mountain Ash forest. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are also available if you or the little ones need to brush up on their skills.
Looking for more underrated things to do? Try your hand at glass creations – beads, vessels or tiles – at Canberra Glassworks, or marvel at skeletons and fossils at the National Dinosaur Museum, one of Australia’s biggest permanent collections of interactive dinosaurs.
2. Visually stunning drive for all ages: Victoria and South Australia
From Victoria’s show-stopping coastline to South Australia’s lush wine regions, this road trip destination in Australia is a treat for the eyes. But more than a visual delight, it’s a beginner-friendly route with interesting stops and attractions nearby.
Kick off your drive from Victoria with a visit to Phillip Island, a haven for the little penguins. No trip is complete without watching the iconic Penguin Parade at sunset, while spotting other resident wildlife like swamp wallabies and Eastern barred bandicoots. With a plethora of galleries and museums, awe-inspiring trails and world-renowned wetlands, you can easily spend a day or more on the island.
From there, coast along the iconic Great Ocean Road to be awestruck by the Twelve Apostles – magnificent limestone rock stacks that rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean. For some well-deserved R&R, park yourself at the Mornington Peninsula. This seaside spot boasts natural hot springs to melt stress away, as well as world-class wineries and breweries like Chiefs Son Distillery and Jetty Road Brewery for more indulgence.
Let the scenic drive continue towards South Australia, starting with a plunge into the wilderness at Kangaroo Island. Jump onboard an immersive tour to see the island’s amazing wildlife (think kangaroos, koalas and sea lions), try adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding, biking and snorkelling, and sample local produce and wine.
Other must-visit spots? We love wineries like McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley for sweet vino and a peek behind the wine scene, and Beerenberg Farm for a family-friendly spot with strawberry picking, local produce tasting and cooking demonstrations. We can’t say no to freshly made fruit jams, chutneys and relishes!
3. Families with a spirit for adventure: Tasmania
Hands up if your ideal vacation lets you dive headfirst into the action! With diverse landscapes and unique experiences, Tasmania is the perfect spot to soak in the outdoors and excitement.
Not to be missed is Tasmania’s iconic wilderness spot, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Nestled in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this natural beauty is a must-visit in all seasons, featuring moss-covered ancient rainforests, deep river gorges and snow-covered mountain peaks. From short, easy strolls to trails that take up to six days, the array of walking trails suits families of every fitness level. While you’re clocking in your steps, keep an eye out for wildlife like Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus and echidna.
Didn’t manage to spot any? No fret. Devils@Cradle, a world-class conservation sanctuary dedicated to the Tasmanian devil, sits right at the start of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Pop by for a free-and-easy or guided tour to learn about the Tasmanian devils, Eastern quolls and spotted-tail quolls. Oh, and your ticket will contribute to the conservation of these animals!
Animal lovers should also make time for the Bicheno penguin tour that departs at dusk from Bicheno. Visit a private penguin rookery to see the adorable creatures in their natural habitat, while the kiddos can learn about the importance of conservation. If your road trip is set between December and September, don’t miss out on a truffle hunting adventure at The Truffle Farm. Follow skilled farmers and trained truffle-hunting dogs to unearth precious truffles, learn about the premium ingredient, and have a taste.
Beyond nature and wildlife, pay a visit to Port Arthur Historic Site for a glimpse of Tasmania’s rich history. The former convict settlement built in the 18th and 19th centuries offers various guided tours, but we recommend the 90-minute, lantern-lit ghost tour. Taking you through infamous buildings and ruins, it’s not for the faint of heart!
See the land Down Under on four wheels
From the underrated capital of Canberra to the captivating state of Tasmania, a leisure road trip across Australia is always a hit with the family. Want to set off without lifting a finger? Enter PriceBreaker, your trusted travel experts who will get your trip sorted with no fuss.
Certified Aussie Specialists by Tourism Australia, PriceBreaker consultants are your go-to for any advice on flight bookings, itineraries, and other important travel services in Australia. The passionate team of travel specialists boasts over 100 airline partners around the world to plan and customise your next family getaway. Visit PriceBreaker’s travel studios at Great World and Parkway Parade, or reach out to the team online to start planning your great Aussie adventure!
This post is in partnership with PriceBreaker.
