Top five road trips in Western Australia Previous Next

1. South West Drive

(Perth to Pemberton and Margaret River)

This much-loved southern road trip takes you through Western Australia’s spectacular south-west, winding through giant karri trees, passing through vineyards and finishing at the bright blue waters of the coast.

Starting in Perth, travel through Jarrahdale and Serpentine, where you can explore Serpentine Falls and scenic forests before reaching the tall tree country of Pemberton. Along the way, visit the quaint towns of Boyup Brook and Bridgetown.

Then it’s on to the iconic Margaret River, where the paddocks are filled with grapes and the coast has some of the world’s best surf. On your way back to Perth, stop off and see the cows in Cowaramup, visit Peppermint Grove beach near Capel and grab lunch in Bunbury to make it home in time for dinner.

2.  The Coral Coast

(Perth to Exmouth)

Chase the sun along the Coral Coast with this beachside road trip from Perth to Exmouth and back. Head up the Indian Ocean Drive to your first stop at Nambung National Park to see the Pinnacles rock formations. Take a break for coffee or a bite to eat at Jurien Bay and Dongara before stopping overnight in Geraldton.

Your next stop is Carnarvon where you can indulge in local tropical fresh fruit before reaching Exmouth for an overnight stop where you can swim with the whale sharks and snorkel above the colourful coral of Ningaloo Reef. On the way back, take in the beautiful beaches of North West in Coral Bay, stop to see the dolphins at Monkey Mia and explore the rugged Kalbarri National Park.

3.  Coast to Coast

(Perth to Albany and the Porongurups)

The great southern region has it all - good food and wine, beautiful coastline and stunning national parks to explore. This trip takes you through Western Australia’s farmland via Kojonup to Albany before you head west to explore the stunning bush and coastline of Denmark and Pemberton.

On the way back to Perth, explore charming towns like Bridgetown and Nannup before stopping at Augusta and Margaret River. Then meander back to Perth through Busselton and Donnybrook.

4. Gibb River Road

Touted as one of the last true outback experiences in Western Australia, the Gibb River Road spans 660 kilometre between Derby and Kununurra. The track passes stunning gorges, cattle stations and remote wildlife sanctuaries.

It's not a drive for the faint-hearted and can be an unforgiving journey if you're not prepared. Make sure the four-wheel drive is packed with water, food and emergency supplies and remember to allow plenty of time to enjoy this majestic landscape.

5.  Perth to Esperance

Follow Albany Highway and travel through historic Wheatbelt towns of Williams, Kojonup and Mount Barker before reaching the southern coastline. Here you'll find fabulous fishing, pristine national parks and the whitest beaches you've ever seen.

Explore the rugged coastline around Albany before moving on to Hopetoun and Esperance where you can enjoy stunning beaches and the breathtaking Cape Le Grand National Park. Take your time to take it all in and pack your camera - these places are so beautiful you’ll want proof to show others.

The RACQ Travel team can help you plan and discover your perfect Western Australia holiday.