Three‑hour routes, secret beaches with fewer than 50 cars a day, and a local bakery that sells croissants fresh from the oven. By the end you’ll have a ready‑made itinerary for every long weekend.
South Coast, New South Wales – From Kiama to Shellharbour
The drive starts at Kiama’s famous blowhole, where the water jets up to 12 m high at high tide. Follow the coastal road for 45 km and you’ll hit Werri Beach, a crescent of white sand that stays uncrowded even in summer because there’s no parking lot—just a single gravel turn‑around. Pack a picnic; the park behind the beach offers picnic tables and a shaded BBQ area, perfect for a quick lunch.
Continuing east, the town of Gerringong hides a surf break called “The Point” that only locals know. It’s a 10‑minute walk from the car park down a steep staircase, and the wave is gentle enough for beginners yet still rewarding for seasoned surfers. Finish the day in Shellharbour, where the historic Shellharbour Village markets open Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm, selling handmade jewellery and fresh oysters.
Great Ocean Road – The lesser‑known stretch from Peterborough to Port Campbell
Most tourists stop at the Twelve Apostles, but the 30‑km segment between Peterborough and Port Campbell holds two hidden gems. First, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park offers a walking trail that follows the cliff edge for 4 km, with lookout points every 500 m. On a clear day you can spot the distant silhouette of the iconic lighthouse at Cape Otway.
Second, the small settlement of Port Campbell hides a 150‑metre sandbar at the end of the beach that appears only at low tide. Check the tide chart (low tide falls at 9:15 am on Saturday) and you’ll be walking on a natural runway, perfect for sunrise photos. After a day of exploration, the local bakery on Main Street serves a “sea‑salt caramel scone” that’s become a cult favourite among weekend travelers.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland – From Noosa Heads to Coolum Beach
Start early at Noosa Main Beach, where the first wave arrives at 6:30 am during summer. The beach is patrolled, but the real treasure is the Noosa National Park’s coastal walk, a 5‑km loop that passes through rainforest and offers a panoramic view of the ocean from Hell’s Gates—a lookout that is rarely crowded because the path is steep and takes about 30 minutes to climb.
Drive north for 20 km to Coolum Beach. The town’s “Coolum Surf Club” runs a free surf lesson every Sunday at 10 am for beginners. Bring a wetsuit; the water temperature hovers around 22 °C in spring, making it comfortable without a full suit. After surfing, head to the nearby “Mooloolaba Street Market” (open Saturday 9 am‑2 pm) for fresh fruit smoothies and handmade wooden surfboards.
Western Australia – The Margaret River coastal loop
While Margaret River is famous for wine, the coastal loop adds a different flavour. Drive from the town centre to Prevelly, a 12‑km stretch that includes the stunning “Bunny Rocks” – a series of limestone formations that look like giant rabbit silhouettes at sunset. The access road is a narrow, unsealed track, so a low‑clearance vehicle is recommended.
Just beyond Bunny Rocks, the tiny settlement of Yallingup offers a hidden cove called “Mullion Beach”. The cove is only reachable via a 300‑metre stair descent, and the tide pools there are teeming with starfish and small crabs during low tide (usually around 3 pm on Sundays). Pack a snorkel and you’ll have an underwater adventure without the crowds.
From coastal cruising to a quick gaming break
After a day of salty air and scenic drives, it’s tempting to unwind with a bit of online entertainment. If you’re looking for a casual diversion while you wait for the next tide, the National casino offers a range of games that can fill a quiet evening without pulling you away from the road trip vibe.
Final tips for a smooth weekend
- Check tide tables the night before; many hidden beaches are only accessible at low tide.
- Carry a portable charger—coastal signal can be spotty, and you’ll need power for navigation.
- Book accommodation at least two weeks in advance for popular spots like Noosa; otherwise, look for “cottage” listings on regional tourism sites.
- Pack a reusable water bottle; most beaches have refill stations but they’re often off the main road.
- Bring cash for small stalls—many coastal markets don’t accept cards.
With these routes and tips, your next long weekend can turn ordinary roads into unforgettable coastal adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to start the drive?
Begin early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch sunrise over the ocean. This timing also allows you to explore each stop at a relaxed pace.
Which beach is most secluded?
Werri Beach remains the most secluded spot, with limited parking and minimal traffic. Its crescent of white sand offers a quiet retreat even in summer.
Where can I find fresh croissants?
Stop at the local bakery in Shellharbour, where croissants are baked fresh daily and served warm. It’s the perfect break before continuing the scenic route.