The Ultimate 6 Month Australia Road Trip Itinerary

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As many of our readers know, we took off on a big Australia road trip that lasted for 18 months. While most people don’t have over a year to spend exploring one country, it’s not unheard of to plan for a 6 month road trip of Australia.

I would say 6 months is the perfect amount of time to spend exploring Australia. You can spend a good amount of time in the Outback, explore the East Coast more leisurely, and even throw in a trip to Tasmania in that timeframe.

We took 6 months to explore New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania, but that’s only because we tied in work and travel, as well as homeschooling two small kids.

You could easily include the Northern Territories, The Red Center, South Australia and the West Coast into an epic 6 month trip.

Having explored the entire continent of Australia and leaving no stone unturned, we’ve come up with the ultimate 6 month Australia itinerary for those who need a little help with the planning stage…

Can you do a lap of Australia in 6 months?

But first, can you visit Australia in 6 months? The answer is yes, absolutely.

I would say that it would take around 4 months to drive around the country and spend a good amount of time in each place, but 6 months allows you to travel a bit slower, take your time more leisurely, and stay longer in places that you really enjoyed.

The great Aussie road trip, also called “doing the lap”, is a dream of many and not a day goes by that I don’t pinch myself and realize how fortunate we were to be able to do it ourselves.

At A Glance: A 6 Month Road Trip Itinerary for Australia

If you are short on time, and need a quick overview of an itinerary to get your planning started, here is our suggested itinerary at a glance.

• Week 1: Melbourne. Spend a week exploring the city, take day trips to Phillip Island, Morning Peninsula, Yarra Valley and The Grampians.
• Week 2: The Great Ocean Road. Spend a week driving the iconic Great Ocean Road route towards Adelaide.
• Week 3: Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island. Spend a day or two in Adelaide before visiting the nearby Barossa Valley for 2-3 days of wine tasting and exploring the charming countryside. Take a trip to Kangaroo Island for 2-3 days.
• Week 4: Alice Springs and The Red Center. Take the Ghan Train from Adelaide up to Alice Springs. Spend a week exploring Uluru, Kings Canyon and the West Macdonnell Ranges.
• Week 5: Darwin. Spend a week exploring Darwin and it’s surrounding national parks, such as Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park and the Adelaide River.
• Week 6-7: The Top End. Visit Cable Beach, Kakadu National Park, and then head down towards Timber Creek and Lake Argyle.
• Week 8: Lake Argyle to Broome. It’s a long drive from Lake Argyle to Broome but there’s not much to see on the way. Take 2 days driving the trip and stop in small outback towns on the way. Spend 2-3 days in Broome and visit 85-mile beach.
• Week 9: Broome to Coral Bay. Spend a couple of days driving from Broome to Coral Bay, stopping in Exmouth. Spend 4 days in Coral Bay, swim with manta rays, visit Cape Range National Park and Carnarvon.
• Week 10: Coral Bay to Perth. Spend 3 days driving to Perth stopping at Kalbarri National Park and Nambung National Park. Spend 4 days in Perth.
• Week 11: Margaret River. Drive over to Margaret River and spend 2-3 days there. Then fly to Cairns. Spend a couple of days in the city of Cairns, take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Week 12: Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest & Port Douglas. Spend a week exploring the rainforest region of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree. Base yourself in Port Douglas.
• Week 13: Magnetic Island. Spend a week on Magnet Island to recuperate from all the driving on a relaxing, quiet island. Slip into “Maggie Time” and recharge.
• Week 14: The Whitsundays. Take a boat back to Townsville and drive down to Airlie Beach to visit The Whitsundays. Spend a week exploring the islands here, such as Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, and Hayman Island. Make sure to visit Whitehaven Beach.
• Week 15-16: Outback Queensland. Spend a couple of weeks exploring the small towns of Outback Queensland. Be sure to visit Winton and Longreach. Here’s a two week itinerary for Outback Queensland here. (You could also drop this, if you did not want to make the detour inland. Alternatively, if you’re driving between west and east coast Australia, you can add it in here)
• Week 17: Agnes Water and Town 1770. Drive back to Agnes Water and spend a couple of days exploring the remote settlement of Town of 1770. Drive down to Hervey Bay and relax on the coast for a few days.
• Week 18: Fraser Island. Spend a 3-4 days on Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. Drive a 4WD along 75-mile beach, explore the island’s fresh water lakes, go fishing, check out the shipwreck and look for migrating humpback whales from the shore.
• Week 19: Brisbane. Drive down to Brisbane from Fraser Island stopping in Noosa Heads and the Sunshine Coast. Spend 2-3 days in Brisbane.
• Week 20: The Gold Coast. Spend a week on The Gold Coast, visiting Surfer’s Paradise and Byron Bay.
• Week 21: Coffs Harbour. Drive down to Coffs Harbour stopping at Yamba and Woolgoolga for 2 days each. Spend 3 days in Coffs Harbour.
• Week 22: Port Macquarie. Drive to Port Macquarie stopping at South WestRocks. Spend a couple days in Port Macquarie before driving towards Sydney. Stop off in Newcastle for 1 or 2 nights.
• Week 23: Sydney. Spend a week in Sydney, take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, visit Manly, Bondi Beach, Mudgee Wine Region, and Royal National Park.
• Week 24-26: Tasmania. Fly to Tassie for 3 weeks of rural adventure. Visit Cradle Mountain, Bruny Island, and Freycinet National Park.

The Best 6 Month Australia Road Trip Itinerary

The following itinerary goes in a kind of figure of eight route, because we originally planned to go clockwise around Australia, but we decided to reverse our trip so we could head north for the winter.

Although it’s commonly called a “lap of Australia” because you drive around the outside, at some point you need to cut through the middle to reach the Red Centre to see Ayres Rock. Adelaide sits in the center of the country and has an iconic route to Alice Springs via the Ghan railway, so it makes sense to cut in here.

That’s why this itinerary goes in a figure of eight, rather than a standard loop around.

This itinerary depends on where you start and finish and how you’re getting around. We’ve added in a few flights so you can see more of Australia.

For some, that may be problematic if you intend the drive the entire lap. You will just have to adjust – mostly for getting from the West Coast to the East Coast, making sure to allow for at least five days to drive over. You can also catch a car ferry from Melbourne to Tasmania, so change the itinerary to allow for that, if you wish to drive.

This is only a suggested itinerary, and you might want to change it up depending on what season you are visiting in. Try to time it so that your visit to the Top End and Northern Territory is for the winter.

Week 1: Melbourne

We planned to visit Victoria for one month, and they finally kicked us out after three. What a revelation this state was!

There are so many great destinations in a small area, and all within easy access of Melbourne.

We recommend you spend a week in Melbourne so you can take day trips to some of our favorite places, such as Phillip Island, Wilsons Prom, The Grampians, The Bellarine, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, and Echuca.

Melbourne is definitely one of the most exciting cities in Australia. This city has it all, just try and ignore the crazy weather, and your growing waistline from all the coffee and cake.

We loved Squeaky Beach in Wilsons Promontory National Park, and the small town of Bright.

We love the alpine scenery, the cafe scene, the walks, the bike rides, the river, and the kids playground is viewable from the awesome Brewery, which has the best cider ever, by the way. There were so many things to do in Bright, you could easily forget about your road trip and just stay there.

Week 2: The Great Ocean Road

Finally, found out why The Great Ocean Road drive is so famous. It matched my expectations and we got lucky with the weather.

It has amazing scenery, great towns, lovely coastal and forest walks, waterfalls, rainforests, and lots of native wildlife. Many people drive this in one-two days, we took 2 weeks in the end.

I recommend you take at least a week so you can stop off and do some hiking in the national parks.

Week 3: Adelaide

After driving the Great Ocean Road, head along to Adelaide.

The city of Adelaide itself isn’t much to write home about. It’s just a city. However, it has so many cool places to visit nearby, such as the iconic Barossa Valley – Australia’s premier wine region.

You should spend a couple of days exploring the Barossa and do some wine tasting, though there is plenty more to do in the Barossa besides drinking wine. You can read about things to do in the Barossa here.

Another great place to visit nearby is Kangaroo Island. You can easily spend 3-4 days on this island taking in all the wildlife. It’s not just kangaroos either, there’s an abundance of koalas, seals, and dolphins.

Here’s how to spend 4 days on Kangaroo Island.

It’s amazing how many wild kangaroos we saw on the south coast. They’re on the beaches, on the golf courses, by the side of the road, in the camp grounds, in the National Parks. It was such a great experience to see them for our kids.

Week 4: Alice Springs & The Red Centre

From Adelaide, one of the most iconic things to do in Australia is to take the Ghan train up to Alice Springs and The Red Center. You can actually take the Ghan all the way to Darwin, but don’t miss a chance to visit the Outback – it’s truly a special place.

Spend a week exploring the Red Center from Alice Springs. You can take a couple of days in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to see Ayres Rock and go camping in the outback.

I’d also take a guided tour to learn about the cultural significance of this sacred site and be sure to visit at sunset to watch the sun light up Ayres Rock in a vibrant shade of red.

Then venture to Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, and spend time hiking through the stunning rock formations. After that, head to Kings Canyon and hike the breathtaking Kings Canyon Rim Walk, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and exploring the lush Garden of Eden.

If you have more time, visit the West Macdonnell Ranges for some more camping and hiking experiences.

To wrap up your time in the Red Center, spend a few days in Alice Springs, immersing in the local art scene at the Araluen Cultural Precinct and exploring the fascinating history at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station.

Week 5: Darwin

Take the Ghan all the way up to Darwin and spend a day or two exploring the city. Though we’re not museum people, you can learn about the fascinating history and culture of the Northern Territory people at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.

In the evening, venture to the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market, and spend the evening browsing the stalls, sampling delicious food from around the world, and enjoying live music as the sun sets over the beach. It’s one of the most iconic things to do in Darwin and easily one of the best sunset spots in Australia.

For the following 2 days, I’d dedicate my time to exploring the stunning Litchfield National Park. I’d take a full day to visit the park’s iconic waterfalls, including Florence Falls and Wangi Falls, where I’d have the chance to swim and cool off in the refreshing natural pools.

Another national park worth visiting from Darwin is Katherine Gorge, where you can kayak or canoe down the river, or take a walk to look for ancient aboriginal rock art.

If you want some wildlife adventure, visit Crocosaurus Cove to get up close and personal with saltwater crocodiles and other fascinating reptiles.

Week 6 & 7: The Top End

There is no bigger adventure in Australia to have than road tripping the Top End of Australia. It’s the most remote, wild and untamed part of the country (besides Tassie, maybe) and is full of natural wonders to explore.

You cannot miss the iconic Kakadu National Park. I’d recommend you spend 3 days exploring the park, taking in the ancient rock art at Ubirr and Nourlangie, and embarking on a scenic cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and birdlife.

After that, I’d venture to the breathtaking Lake Argyle, where I’d spend a day or two cruising on the expansive lake, taking in the dramatic scenery and learning about the area’s unique ecology.

You can even swim in the lake with fresh water crocs (they won’t hurt you) if you’re feeling brave enough! Read about our experience doing that here.

Week 8: Lake Argyle to Broome

From Lake Argyle, road trip along to the town of Broome. From here, you can visit the rugged beauty of the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, which is one of the top things to do in Broome.

If you have some money in your budget, you can take a scenic flight over the distinctive beehive-shaped domes and then hike among these ancient rock formations, taking in the stunning vistas.

Another plae to visit nearby is the charming town of Halls Creek where you can spend a day learning about the local Indigenous culture and history at the Yarliyil Art Centre and enjoying the peaceful surrounds of the nearby Caroline Pool.

Fitzroy Crossing is another popular destination to visit and is known for being the gateway to the majestic Geikie Gorge. I’d take a boat tour along the tranquil waters, marveling at the towering cliffs and learning about the area’s geological and cultural significance.

Spend a day at the mesmerizing Tunnel Creek National Park, venturing deep into the ancient cave system, wading through the cool waters and discovering the fascinating rock formations and local wildlife.

You cannot visit Broome without relaxing on the iconic Cable Beach, taking in the breathtaking sunsets, walking around to Gantheaume Point to see dinosaur footprints fossilized into the rock face, and experiencing the natural wonder of the Staircase to the Moon, a mesmerizing optical illusion created by the rising moon over the exposed mudflats!

Week 9: Broome to Coral Bay

When you’re ready to leave Broome, drive along the coast towards Coral Bay. Stay in the remote town of Port Hedland and spend a day marveling at the natural wonder of the Staircase to the Moon, a mesmerizing optical illusion created by the rising moon over the exposed mudflats. Broome also

Don’t miss a chance to stop off at Karijini National Park and dedicate three days to immersing myself in the rugged beauty of the park.

Hike through the breathtaking gorges, swim in the crystal-clear rock pools (there are not many croc-free pools in this part of Australia, so make the most of it!), and marvel at the stunning waterfalls.

Spend a day or two in the charming town of Exmouth, and explore the pristine beaches.

Finally, head to Coral Bay, the gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park where you have the opportunity to swim with majestic whale sharks or manta rays!

Week 10: Coral Bay to Perth

From Coral Bay, head south to the charming town of Carnarvon, where you can spend a day visiting the Carnarvon Gorge National Park and do some more hiking through gorges and swimming in swimming holes.

After that, continue your journey to the Pinnacles Desert, where you can spend a few hours marveling at the otherworldly limestone formations. It’s a unique and surreal landscape that’s definitely worth a stop.

As you approach Perth, make a detour to the beautiful Lancelin Sand Dunes, where you can spend a day sandboarding and taking in the breathtaking coastal views. It’s a thrilling and scenic way to spend your time.

Finally, arrive in Perth and spend the last couple of days exploring the vibrant city, visiting the iconic Kings Park, and strolling along the beautiful Swan River. The city’s lively atmosphere and diverse attractions make for a perfect end to this section of the road trip.

Week 11: Margaret River

From Perth, drive the short drive to Margaret River, a stunning region on the Western Australia coastline known for its pristine beaches. Spend a day at the famous Surfers Point, where you can ride the powerful waves and take in the beautiful scenery.

Next, head inland to the iconic Mammoth Cave, and spend a few hours marveling at the ancient formations and learning about the region’s rich history. The guided tours are super informative and really bring the cave to life.

Spend a few days in the charming town of Margaret River itself, where you can relax, soaking in the quiet small town vibe, explore the local art galleries, boutique shops, and indulging in some delicious wine and gourmet food.

The wine tastings are a must-do, and the local produce is just incredible.

Then venture to the stunning Boranup Forest, and go for a hike through the towering karri trees and breathe in the fresh, earthy scent of the forest. It’s a great place to unwind and connect with nature.

Wrap up the week by visiting the beautiful Hamelin Bay, soaking up the sunshine and admiring the crystal-clear waters. The resident stingrays often make an appearance, and it’s a truly magical way to end a trip to the Margaret River area.

Week 12: Cairns, Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest & Port Douglas

Fly over to Cairns on the East Coast of Australia. This will be a full travel day and will require an internal flight.

On the second day, spend a day exploring the vibrant city of Cairns, taking a dip in the famous Lagoon.

Next, head north to Port Douglas, where you can spend a couple of days soaking up the sun at Four Mile Beach and exploring the charming town. The Sunday Market is a must-visit for some local crafts and delicious food, if you time your visit right.

From there, venture into the ancient Daintree Rainforest, where you can spend a day or two immersing myself in the lush greenery and taking a guided walk through the pristine wilderness. The Mossman Gorge is a highlight, with its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings.

Then make your way to Cape Tribulation, where you can spend a day exploring the rugged coastline and taking a guided tour through the dense rainforest. The Cape Tribulation Beach is a perfect spot for some relaxation and wildlife spotting.

We did a kayak tour there, but these tours don’t seem to run anymore, sadly.

Wrap up the week by heading back to Cairns and taking a day trip to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, where you can go snorkeling or diving with the vibrant marine life and colorful coral formations.

Week 13: Magnetic Island

Drive down from Cairns to Townsville, the gateway to Magnetic Island. By now, you’re about halfway through the trip and it’s time for relaxation.

I recommend you spend a week on Magnetic Island, a remote island known for its laid-back lifestyle and remote, rugged natural beauty.

Start by exploring the stunning beaches of Horseshoe Bay and the famous Alma Bay. The crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot for some snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun.

Be sure to visit the iconic Forts Walk, where you can spend a few hours marveling at the historic WWII military base and enjoying the panoramic views of the island. The walking trails are super scenic and offer a great way to connect with nature. You also have a great chance of seeing koalas in trees here.

Visit the charming town of Arcadia, and explore the local art galleries, boutique shops, and indulging in some delicious seafood. The local fish and chips are a must-try, and the laid-back vibe of the town is just perfect for unwinding.

Also visit the beautiful Picnic Bay. The resident sea turtles often make an appearance, and it’s a truly magical experience to see them in their natural habitat.

Week 14: The Whitsunday Islands

Nothing spells paradise like The Whitsundays. These idyllic islands lay in the heart of The Great Barrier Reef and are known for their pristine white sand beaches and unspoiled natural beauty.

Be sure to sail or seaplane to Whitehaven Beach, the most famous beach in Australia! Spend a day lounging on its pristine sands and visiting the viewpoint at Hill Inlet. The pure silica sand and the turquoise sea make it a perfect spot for some Instagram-worthy photos.

Head to Hamilton Island and spend a couple of days exploring the vibrant marina, indulging in some watersports, and enjoying the island’s luxurious amenities. The sunset views from One Tree Hill are absolutely breathtaking and worth spending an evening there.

Spend a day or two relaxing on the beautiful Daydream Island, where I take a leisurely walk along the Living Reef and enjoy some snorkeling to see the diverse marine life. It’s a great place to unwind and connect with nature.

Week 15-16: Outback Queensland

If you’re all relaxed out and ready for an adventure again, head to Outback Queensland for a couple of weeks soaking in the small town Australian vibe.

Head towards the iconic town of Longreach, where you can spend a few days exploring the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and enjoying a sunset cruise along the Thomson River. The rich history and the rugged beauty of the outback make it a perfect spot to begin my journey.

Next, head to Winton, where you can spend a few days exploring the attractions there. Don’t miss the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum and taking a guided tour to see the Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park. The ancient fossils and the dramatic landscapes are truly remarkable and worth a full day of exploration.

Another captivating town to visit is Mount Isa, where I recommend you spend a couple of days delving into the mining history at the Outback at Isa complex and witnessing the breathtaking views from the City Lookout. It was one of the best sunsets we saw in Australia. The underground tour of the Hard Times Mine is an absolute must-do and offers a fascinating insight into the region’s mining heritage.

Don’t miss the picturesque Lawn Hill National Park, now known as Boodjamulla National Park, and spend a few days to hiking through the stunning gorges, canoe along the tranquil waters, and camp under the starry outback sky. The natural beauty and the remote wilderness of the park are truly awe-inspiring and worth immersing myself in for a while.

Also visit the charming town of Birdsville, and experiencing the thrill of the annual Birdsville Races if the timing is right.

Week 17: Agnes Water & Town of 1770

Head back towards the coast towards Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 but by no means back to civilization!

Start by hitting the beautiful beaches and spending a day soaking up the sun at the main beach. The laid-back vibe and the clear waters make it a perfect spot for some relaxation and beach activities after a couple of weeks in the desert!

Head to the iconic Agnes Water Discovery Trail, where you can spend a few hours hiking and exploring the stunning coastal scenery. The walking trails are super scenic and offer a great way to connect with nature.

After that, visit the charming town of Town 1770, where you can spend a couple of days exploring the historic sites, taking a LARC tour and boogie boarding down the sand dunes!

After a few days in Agnes Water, head towards Hervey Bay, where you can relax for a couple days before catching the ferry to…

Week 18: Fraser Island

A week on Fraser Island is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the sites and combine relaxation with adventure!

Start by hopping in a 4WD and driving along the 75-mile beach, also known as the Fraser Island Highway. Visit the stunning Lake McKenzie and spending a day swimming in its crystal-clear waters and relaxing on its pure white silica sands.

Check out the iconic Maheno Shipwreck and the charming town of Eurong. Take a swim in Champagne Pools, a natural rock pool that’s the perfect place to cool off in and feel the power of the ocean spray.

You could easily spend a couple of days indulging in some four-wheel adventures, stopping off at sites to do some fishing on the shoreline and taking in the natural beauty. Here are the many amazing things to do on Fraser Island

Week 19: Brisbane

From Fraser Island, drive down towards Brisbane, stopping off on the Sunshine Coast and Noosa Heads for a day or so to enjoy the beaches and whale watching experiences.

Then spend a couple of days in the city of Brisbane, exploring the vibrant South Bank Parklands and spending a day strolling along the riverfront, checking out the unique street art, and enjoying a picnic by the lagoon.

Check out the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can spend a few hours cuddling koalas and hand-feeding kangaroos.

Also be sure to venture to the stunning Mount Coot-tha, where you can take a leisurely walk to the lookout and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Week 20: The Gold Coast

For Australians, it’s all about the water. There’s no better place to understand this, than on the Gold Coast.

Spend your days on the beaches, surfing or simply soaking up the sun at Surfers Paradise, or visiting some of the world class theme parks, such as Dreamworld and Movie World.

After that, make your way to the charming town of Burleigh Heads, where you can spend a day exploring the lush national park and taking a leisurely walk along the scenic coastal walk.

We lived in Burleigh Heads for 18 months. It’s one of our favorite places in Australia! we find Surfers Paradise to be touristy and overrated. The best side of the Gold coast is from Burleigh Heads down to Coolangatta.

Check out the stunning Tamborine Mountain, explore the beautiful rainforest, visit the picturesque waterfalls, and indulge in some wine tasting at the local wineries.

Also don’t miss the beautiful Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, to get up close with native Australian animals, watching the exciting wildlife shows, and hand-feeding the friendly lorikeets.

The Gold Coast is where Australians go for their vacations, so you know it’s going to be good.

Week 21: Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour

Journey from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay, where you can spend a couple of days exploring the beautiful beaches, taking a walk to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, and enjoying the vibrant arts and music scene.

Next, head to the rural town of Yamba, where you can take a leisurely walk along the picturesque beaches and indulge in the peaceful atmosphere after the busy crowds of The Gold Coast.

After that, venture to the stunning Bellingen and spend a couple of days exploring the lush rainforest, browsing through the local Bellingen markets, and enjoying the bohemian vibe of the town.

Don’t miss the Dorrigo National Park, and hike through the enchanting World Heritage-listed rainforest, marvel at the stunning waterfalls, and enjoy a picnic amid the serene surroundings.

Finally, arrive in Coffs Harbour and spend a few days enjoying the laid-back vibe here. Check out the iconic Big Banana, go on coastal walks, and perhaps indulging in some dolphin or whale watching.

Week 22: Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie to Newcastle

From Coffs Harbour, head towards the beautiful coastal town of Port Macquarie. Visit the Koala Hospital, take a scenic coastal walk, and visit the Willi Willi National Park.

You could spend a couple of days in Port Macquarie, before driving down to Newcastle. Stop off at South West Rocks along the way for some stunning coastal views.

Newcastle is a big city with a lot of cool attractions to visit.

While in this region, you may want to spend a couple of days in the Hunter Valley for wine tasting and indulging in gourmet food. Alternatively, head to Mudgee Valley for picturesque vineyards and charming cellar doors. It will be quite a detour, but we really like Mudgee. You can also visit there from Sydney.

Week 23: Sydney

Finally, we make it to the iconic city of Sydney! You could easily spend more than a week in Sydney, and I’ve allowed three weeks for Tasmania, but you could add a few more days in Sydney is you like the vibe (don’t have less than 2 weeks on Tassie though!)

Spend a day visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House and climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Spend another day taking a ferry to Manly Beach, where you can soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

Our favorite thing to do in Sydney is the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee, which has stunning ocean views and plenty of picturesque spots for a swim.

Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, marveling at the breathtaking scenery and taking a leisurely hike to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. The fresh mountain air is a welcome change from the city bustle.

Venture south to the Royal National Park, where you can spend a day or two hiking through lush rainforest and discover hidden waterfalls.

Continuing along the coast, for a day at Wollongong for some beach relaxation and to explore the vibrant art scene. The Nan Tien Temple was a serene escape, and I enjoyed learning about Buddhist culture and philosophy.

Week 24-26: Tasmania

What better way to end a 6 month trip of Australia than by exploring the wild, remote and rugged island state of Tasmania.

Tasmania has a unique blend of history, small town communities, amazing beaches and mountains, and unmissable hikes.

One of our highlights was the Wineglass Bay to Hazards Beach walk in Freycinet National Park. When you can combine two of Australia’s best beaches in the one walk (Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach) you know it’s a hike not to miss.

To be standing alone on the famous Wineglass Bay was incredible. It’s definitely worth it to get up early to beat the crowd, folks!

Another highlight was visiting Bruny Island. The rugged coastline, awesome cliffs and sea caves, abundance of wildlife, and a fun and informative guide, made it one of our favorite activities.

Although you can visit Bruny Island on a day trip from Hobart, it’s worth exploring for a couple of days as there are many things to do on Bruny Island.

Port Arthur is another one of the best places to visit in Tasmania, especially if you love history. It was moving, interesting, sad, troubled, and beautiful, all wrapped up in one package.

Port Arthur has a violent and troubled history as a penal colony for some of Australia’s hardened convicts. We loved this Port Arthur ghost tour!

Also, don’t miss MONA, Hobart. We’re not museum people and normally we would run the other way.

To capture our attention a museum has to be interactive, different, fascinating, and maybe a little weird.

MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, was all that. The founder David Walsh has described the museum as a “subversive adult Disneyland.”

Final Thoughts

They say time flies when you’re having fun, and 6 months into our family adventure, we definitely had our fair share of fun!

You’ve probably noticed South Australia is not on the list! We didn’t get time for it in our Australian road trip, BUT we have visited there on separate trips. So if you can find a way to fit it into your 6 month Oz road trip we recommend it! We love the natural beauty and abundant wildlife on Kangaroo Island, the stunning Flinders Ranges National park, the quirky Coober Pedy, and the Eyre Peninsula (swim with wild sea lions and incredible beaches!)

We hope this itinerary helped you plan your Aussie adventure and gave you some inspiration for your own trip.

I know how the planning can get overwhelming, but the anticipation and all the excitement soon builds, and before you know it you’re living your dream!

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What place do you most want to see in Australia? Let us know in the comments!