Beat the “Mum, I’m bored” on repeat these school holidays. If you’re looking for school holiday road trip inspo, you’ve come to the right place! If coastal escapes, rainforest drives and family-friendly adventures are your thing, these underrated destinations are perfect for your next Aussie road trip.
School holidays are the perfect excuse to pack the car, queue up a good playlist (hint: check out the East Coast Car Rentals playlist on Spotify), and head somewhere new. While places like Sydney Harbour and the Gold Coast always get the spotlight, Australia is full of incredible destinations that often fly under the radar.
From scenic coastal drives to rainforest adventures and charming countryside escapes, here are 10 underrated Australian road trips we think are worth exploring these school holidays.
Tamborine Mountain, QLD
Just a short, scenic 45-min drive from the Gold Coast and Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain feels like a completely different world. Think rainforest walks, lookouts with incredible views and cosy cafés tucked along Gallery Walk.
We think will love exploring waterfalls (don’t stick to the rivers and lakes that you’re used to), spotting wildlife and stopping for ice cream or fudge (IYKYK) along the way. It’s an easy day trip that feels like a mini adventure. (Editor’s tip: Take an extra layer to pop on – the temp can be a tad cooler up the mountain).
Start the drive by picking up your vehicle from our Gold Coast Airport branch.
Port Stephens, NSW
If you’re looking for beaches, wildlife and a bit of adventure, Port Stephens ticks all the boxes. Located just a couple of hours from Sydney, this coastal town is known for its crystal-clear water, dolphin cruises and the massive sand dunes at Stockton Beach.
Kids will love sandboarding on the dunes, while you can sit back and enjoy fresh seafood and incredible ocean views.
You can easily reach Port Stephens with a vehicle from our Sydney Airport branch.
Mornington Peninsula, VIC
Just an hour from Melbourne City, the Mornington Peninsula is packed with things to do for families. From beautiful beaches and coastal walks to cute strawberry farms and charming seaside villages, there’s something for everyone.
Spend the day exploring coastal towns or discover hidden beaches along the peninsula and wrap up the day by enjoying fish and chips by the water as the sun goes down,
Pick up a vehicle from our Melbourne Airport location and enjoy the scenic drive. It’ll be worth it.
Bruny Island, TAS
Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s best-kept secrets. Located just south of Hobart, it’s famous for rugged coastlines, wildlife and incredible local food.
Spot seals, explore the famous Neck Lookout or simply enjoy a scenic drive around the island. It’s the kind of place where every stop feels like a hidden gem.
Start your adventure from our Hobart Airport branch before taking the short ferry ride across.
Noosa, QLD
Most visitors head straight to Noosa’s beaches, but the hinterland is where things really slow down. Towns like Montville and Maleny offer mountain views, boutique shops and relaxed country cafés.
It’s perfect for a peaceful day exploring markets, scenic drives and nature walks.
You can reach the hinterland easily with a vehicle from our Sunshine Coast Airport branch.
Blue Mountains, NSW
If you’re looking for dramatic scenery without travelling too far from the city, the Blue Mountains is always a great option. Its approx a 1hr 45min drive, but think waterfalls, lookouts and bushwalks with incredible views when you arrive.
Take the little ones to Scenic World, where everyone can ride the steep railway and walk through ancient rainforest… phones away.
It’s an easy and rewarding road trip from our Sydney Airport location.
Phillip Island, VIC
Phillip Island is famous for its nightly penguin parade, but there’s plenty more to explore here too. Wildlife parks, coastal walks and beautiful beaches make it a fantastic family destination. (Editor’s note: as a self-confessed big kid, catching the penguin parade is still one of my favourite experiences).
Kids will love spotting seals and penguins, while parents can enjoy the relaxed coastal vibe.
Drive there easily after collecting your vehicle from our Melbourne Airport or Melbourne City branches.
Freycinet, TAS
Freycinet National Park is home to some of Tasmania’s most breathtaking scenery, including the insta-famous Wineglass Bay.
Families can explore walking tracks, enjoy quiet beaches and spot wildlife along the way. Even if you’re not up for a long hike, the scenic views alone are worth the trip.
Start your journey from our Hobart Airport branch and enjoy one of Tasmania’s most beautiful coastal drives.
Atherton Tablelands, QLD
Located inland from Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands offer waterfalls, rainforest and unique wildlife encounters.
Families can swim in natural pools, visit local farms and explore scenic drives through the mountains. It’s a great way to experience a different side of tropical North Queensland.
Begin your road trip from our Cairns Airport branch.
Barossa Valley, SA
The Barossa Valley may be famous for wine, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families. Think farmers markets, bakeries, scenic drives and plenty of open space to explore.
You’ll find charming towns, historic buildings and some of the best food in South Australia.
Pick up your vehicle from our Adelaide Airport branch and enjoy the drive through the countryside.
Ready for your next school holiday road trip?
We are absolutely spoilt for choice in Australia. The nation is full of incredible places waiting to be explored, and the school holidays are the perfect time to hit the road.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, coastal views or a relaxing countryside escape, these underrated destinations prove that some of the best adventures are just a short drive away.
Planning a road trip these school holidays? You can collect your vehicle from one of our convenient locations and jump on our free airport shuttle bus and be at the branch in no time!
Where should I go for the school holidays in Australia?
Some of the best underrated school holiday destinations in Australia include Tamborine Mountain, Port Stephens, Phillip Island, the Blue Mountains and Freycinet National Park. These locations offer a mix of nature, beaches and family-friendly activities that are perfect for a road trip.
