Australia is currently in the middle of a very hot summer, and the many who are not yet back at work are enjoying the incredible beach lifestyle that the country is credited for. Beaches all over are dotted with families, bogey boarders, and all walks of life soaking up the cool, coastal climate.

If you’re looking for a beach road trip, this list will give you inspiration to hit the waves and perhaps discover some of the less crowded but equally stunning beaches in Australia.

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The ever popular Great Ocean Road has something for everyone. Victoria’s beaches sure are busy during summer, currently with warmer than usual waters and ultimate beach conditions.

Take the iconic Great Ocean Road in parts, or for longer stays while summer is still simmering away.

Highlights to consider:

Torquay- ultimate surf and food.

Aireys Inlet- holiday views and wide stretches of beach.

Port Campbell- a seaside town never too busy.
Warrnambool- turquoise colored beaches, with plenty of camping and family activities, including the annual carnival and whale watching.

Northern Rivers, New South Wales

Byron Bay and the smaller, surrounding towns of the Northern Rivers are always a treat to visit. Consider some of the outer towns during peak summer season!

Highlights to consider:.

Broken Head- good waves for surfers and rock pools for kids, located south of Byron Bay.

Belongil- quieter beach just north of Byron.

Brunswick Heads- small, relaxed town north of Byron, where the Brunswick river meets the sea.

Coral Coast, Western Australia

The Coral Coast in Western Australia is stunning for its vibrant colours and wide range of wildlife. Located 200kms north of Perth, this stunning coast is worth visiting if you are heading to west Australia.

Highlights to consider:

Ningaloo Reef- the world heritage reef that is on everyone's bucket list! See the beautifully protected marine life and whale sharks.

Geraldton- swimming, shopping, and history.

Coral Bay- small and relaxed town for a quiet beach holiday.

Shark Bay- whale and dolphin spotting.

Prom Country, Victoria

Prom Country in South Gippsland is well worth a road trip. The protected national park of Wilsons Promontory is 3 hours drive from Melbourne, keeping the area quieter than the beaches closer to the city.

Highlights to consider:

Sandy Point - stunning long stretch of beach with old school grocery store.

Darby River- quieter beach and river within Wilson’s Promontory .

Picnic Bay - another long quieter beach option within Wilsons Prom not far from tidal river.

Broome to Cape Leveque, Western Australia

The Broome to Cape Leveque roadtrip is an epic adventure along dirt roads, discovering incredible australian history. (https://shetravelsaustralia.com/5-incredible-things-to-do-in-broome-on-a-travel-budget/)

Highlights to consider:

Broome- diverse town with incredibly interesting prehistoric and and more recent history. The sparkling coastline of Cable Beach is unforgettable.

Cape Leveque- secluded and protested area in the far north of Australia. Beautiful beaches with local history and remote landscapes.

Kate Rae is the creator of She Travels Australia (https://shetravelsaustralia.com/), a blog full of inspiration and unique travel tips written by a local.