With summer just around the corner, many of us are already making the most of the season. Getting up earlier, switching to ice lattes and most importantly, dreaming of how we’ll spend the warmer weather.
Whether it’s sunbaking in Bali, sipping Aperol in a quaint Italian cafe or exploring the croppy mountains somewhere in Arizona, it’s easy to understand the allure of an international getaway.
But with skyrocketing costs, these overseas getaways are looking more and more unlikely for many Aussie families.
Recent studies show more than half of Australians are less likely to head overseas in the next 12 months and for those choosing to stay close by, one third (33%) are travelling intrastate, while 25% are venturing interstate.
For those embracing a domestic summer holiday, there’s no better way to uncover what Australia has to offer than a road trip.
From beaches to rainforests, you can find places that rival the likes of a summer in Europe and offer more adventure than a trek through the landscapes in Southeast Asia. There’s plenty of places to create the perfect holiday without going overseas.
1 Monkey Mia, Western Australia
Nestled on the Coral Coast, Monkey Mia is one of Australia’s most pristine coastlines and has been famous for its dolphin encounters for more than 40 years.
Every morning you can meet the local ranger to get up-close-and-personal with the dolphins until around midday as they hang out in the shallow water. It really is a must-see and the perfect activity for the kids.
The dolphin adventures are paired with incredible coral reefs and a laid-back local atmosphere.
It’s because of this that Monkey Mia has become one of the most popular campervan road trip spots by far, with the option to quite literally park right up near the ocean and fall asleep to the sound of waves.
2 Hobart, Tasmania
One of my favourite cities, Hobart is one of Australia’s most popular tourism destinations for a reason.
It’s known for its contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture, and really is the perfect starting point for a family trip in the summer.
It is also home to the Salamanca Markets – Australia’s most loved and vibrant outdoor markets – which take over the city streets each Saturday.
Heading southwest, you can visit the historic Port Arthur site, or following the scenic roads through the Huon Valley you can encounter charming apple orchards along picturesque landscapes, or heading northwest, you’ll end up in the fishing village of Strahan – full of stories and local culture.
A little further out, Bruny Island is where you’ll find a bit more adventure… playful seal colonies and world-famous oysters.
3 Esperance, Western Australia
Known for its powder white sands and vibrant turquoise waters, Esperance is a dream spot for families.. It’s the kind of coastal paradise that feels worlds away.
There’s plenty of fishing, surfing, swimming and hiking, and from a central spot you can explore lots of the most beautiful beaches. Lucky Bay is famous for friendly kangaroos lounging on the beach and Twilight Beach is known for calm waters, making it perfect for climbing and exploring with little ones.
Just a short drive away is the incredible Pink Lake – located just 10 minutes from the centre of Esperance. The lake is the photo-worthy moment but the surrounding region makes for the perfect road trip if you’re looking for a quiet week under the stars, soaking up the tranquillity of the outback.
4 Yarra Valley, Victoria
Just an hour’s campervan drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a haven of food and nature. While it’s known for rolling vineyards, this region offers more than just wine, with charming towns that really have something for the whole family.
You can spend the day at Healesville Sanctuary, visiting kangaroos, koalas and even the elusive platypus; or, for more of an adventure, you can follow the winding roads deep into the valley and hop on a hot air balloon ride which takes you over the region at sunset.
Yarra Valley is also the perfect place for a scenic campervan trip, with plenty of picturesque stops all around. From gourmet food markets to farm gates selling fresh local produce, there’s plenty of places to pause and soak up the atmosphere.
5 Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Probably one of the nation’s most famous drives, the Great Ocean Road should be on your bucket list whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just looking for a summer getaway.
Sprawling over 240 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford, this drive is a coastal masterpiece. The trip is best savoured over a few days but you can extend it longer if your holidays permit.
Along the way, you’ll find dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches and lush rainforest. A stop at Port Campbell National Park for a look at the Twelve Apostles and limestone formations is a must.
Childer’s Cove Beach is also worth a visit, tucked away from the tourist crowds to offer a secluded cove with powdery white sand, framed with rugged cliffs.
Kids will love the adventure of koala spotting at Kennett River or exploring Split Point Lighthouse in Airey Inlet, which has been featured in many Australian TV shows and offers sweeping views over the coastline.
6 Kiama, New South Wales
Best known for its relaxing coastal vibes, Kiama is a beautiful seaside town on the south coast of NSW. Its name, derived from the Wodi Wodi Indigenous, meaning ‘where the seas makes a noise’, sums up the essence of this coastal escape.
Whether it’s the spectacular show of the famous Kiama Blowhole, the serene hum of the waves, or the much-photographed lighthouse standing guard, the local charm is felt instantly.
Road trip adventurers can explore the 20-kilometre Kiama Coast walk, photographers will marvel at spots like Cathedral Rocks and Saddleback Mountain, and foodies will love the local farmers markets and gourmet bites.
A short scenic journey down the Grand Pacific Drive is where you can find incredible volcanic rock formations, perfect for hidden swimming spots.
