The Ideal Route for a Lap of Australia

There's nothing better than ditching those winter blues for endless blue skies and balmy days.

Australia’s massive size means you can chase an "endless summer" by syncing your route with the seasons: bask in southern summers (December-February) and head north for winter (June-August).

Let's map out the ideal clockwise lap, clocking around 26,000km over 12 months, perfect for van-lifers or road trippers chasing that golden glow.

Kick off your journey in Tasmania, in January, when summer’s in full swing. Spend the month exploring the beautiful van life friendly state!

Hop on a ferry back to Melbourne by February, where summer’s still pumping. Drive along the Great Ocean Road and visit the waterfalls in the Grampians!

As autumn arrives (March) head to South Australia for mild days, perfect for beach and winery-hopping. It is also a great time to explore the Flinders Ranges to chase those golden sunsets over Wilpena Pound for some proper outback vibes without the summer scorch.

By April, you’re in Western Australia’s South West. Exploring Australia's BEST beaches in Esperance without the crowds! Then onto the Margaret River region where you will find world class surf breaks and walk among towering trees in Boranup Forest. Visit Dunsborough for calm beaches like Eagle Bay and explore Busselton’s iconic jetty and snorkel-friendly waters.

In May, roll into Perth to kick off your Coral Coast adventure. Fremantle’s markets and Rottnest island's quokkas are a must, with mild 18-23°C days perfect for exploring. Head north to Cervantes for the Pinnacles’, then Kalbarri for Red Bluff’s epic cliffs and Murchison River gorges.

Push on to arrive in Exmouth by June for Ningaloo Reef snorkelling with whale sharks (April-July peak), basking in 25°C winter bliss.

Continue to Broome for a 'summer' in July, catching Cable Beach camel rides and the Staircase to the Moon (March-October full moons). Then cross the Kimberley to Darwin in August for winter’s dry season magic, exploring Litchfield & Kakadu national parks.

After Darwin, head straight down the middle of the Northern Territory to Australia's most infamous landmark, Uluru. A truly magical awe inspiring place that can not be described with words, only felt in presence.

Head across from central Aus towards the top end of the east coast and arrive in Cairns by September to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef’s coral gardens, hike the Daintree Rainforest’s mossy trails, or chill in Port Douglas’ laid-back cafes with a cold mango smoothie.

Pass through to Townsville for a quick visit to Magnetic Island by taking the ferry over for koala spotting walks and visit secluded bays like Horseshoe. It’s a real island life vibe.

By October, cruise down to South Queensland, making sure to stop in at Airlie Beach, Great Keppel Island, Agnes Waters and Sunshine Coast. Head to the Gold Coast for Surfers Paradise waves or Burleigh Heads’ chill surf scene and explore the hinterland regions.

In November, roll into Northern NSW. Byron Bay’s hippie heart beats strong, catch a sunrise at Cape Byron, Australia’s easternmost point or surf The Pass.

By December, hit Southern NSW and Eastern Victoria. Jervis Bay beaches are a incredible! Venture to the far south and visit small towns like Eden for whale-watching (October-December peak) or oyster shucking at local farms. Cross into Eastern Victoria for Wilsons Promontory’s squeaky sands and epic coastal hikes. Lakes Entrance offers calm waters for kayaking or seafood feasts.

We believe this is the best route to follow if you’ve got a year to complete the full lap of Australia because it lines up perfectly with the ideal weather in each state and territory. Even if you’re travelling for a shorter or longer period, you can still use this as a guide, just make sure to plan around the weather patterns in each region!