If you’re lucky enough to be planning a road trip in Australia over Easter, then congratulations , you’ve picked the perfect time to hit the road. Picture this: the sun is out but it’s not smothering you, the nights are cool enough to sleep comfortably, and the landscapes are stunning without the crowds. It’s like the country’s giving you the best of all worlds. Plus, Easter is a little quieter compared to the summer rush, so you’ve got room to breathe.
Australia is so big, it sometimes feels like a whole other planet. You’ve got everything from golden beaches to wild deserts, lush rainforests, and dramatic cliffs. It’s easy to get lost in the adventure of it all. So, where do you start? Let me guide you through a handful of road trips that are perfect do do over the Easter period.
Sydney to Byron Bay
How much time?
Around 7 to 10 days.
Who’s this for?
First-time road trippers, beach lovers, and anyone who needs a good dose of fresh air and ocean breeze.
Route: Pick up in Sydney & Drop off in Brisbane
If you’re heading to Australia for the first time, I’d say this is one of the best ways to kick things off. The drive from Sydney to Byron Bay is like an invitation to relax, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. This road trip has it all: beautiful beaches, lush national parks, and those tiny, tucked-away towns where time feels like it’s moving slower.
Weather Insight:
During Easter (late March to April), you’ll experience warm, comfortable days along the coast, perfect for beach activities like swimming and surfing. The nights are cool enough for a good night’s rest.
Start in Sydney, where you’ll find the buzz of city life, then head up the coast, past Terrigal’s relaxed beaches, the striking beaches of Port Macquarie, and into the forested paths around Coffs Harbour. And of course, there’s Byron Bay at the end, its laid-back vibe, surfing culture, and great food scene make it one of the most iconic spots on the east coast. If you can, spend a bit more time in smaller towns like Yamba or Crescent Head, these places are like little secret treasures.
Route:Pick up your campervan in Sydney and drop off in Brisbane . You’ll have the perfect balance of coastal relaxation and scenic exploration. Need more details? Check out our Sydney to Byron Bay road trip guide.
Great Ocean Road
How much time?
4 to 5 days.
Best for:
Anyone who loves dramatic coastal views, a bit of adventure, and a sprinkle of history.
Alright, if you’re into dramatic cliffs and the sound of waves crashing against rocks, this one’s for you. The Great Ocean Road is legendary for a reason, and it’s one of those trips that looks even better in person than in photos (hard to believe, right?). But here’s the thing: it’s not just about the Twelve Apostles (though those are magnificent). It’s the whole experience, the roads, the old-world towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, the moments where you just stop and take in the wild beauty of it all.
Weather Insight:
During Easter, the weather along the Great Ocean Road is refreshingly crisp. Days are cool but not cold, which makes it perfect for those long walks along the cliffs or through the rainforest. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, but don’t be surprised if a little rain showers down here and there.
The koalas and kangaroos may not pose for photos on command, but they’re often around, adding that extra magic. And if you’re up for it, the Otways rainforest offers a serene escape from the more touristy spots. It’s the kind of place where you just breathe in the mist and let the world keep turning without you for a while.
Route:Pick up your campervan in Melbourne and drop off in Melbourne. For inspiration on this route, check out our Great Ocean Road trip guide.
Tasmania Loop
How much time?
7 to 10 days.
Best for:
Nature lovers, hikers, anyone craving cooler weather and a slower pace.
Tasmania. You’ve probably heard about it, but nothing quite prepares you for the island’s wild, rugged charm. It’s a place where the trees are taller, the air is cleaner, and the hikes leave you feeling both exhausted and exhilarated. I’m talking about Cradle Mountain, Wineglass Bay, and those quiet moments on Bruny Island where the world seems to stop.
Weather Insight:
Easter is one of the best times to visit Tasmania because the weather is just about perfect. It’s cool enough for hiking, and the crisp air is a welcome change from the tropical heat of the north. Days are mostly sunny, though you may experience a light mist or occasional rain, especially if you’re heading into the mountains. But that’s part of the charm of Tasmania, the weather changes quickly, and that adds to the wild, untamed feel of the place. Just pack a jacket for those cooler mornings and evenings.
Tasmania feels like a different world altogether, and the slower pace of the trip means you really get to soak it all in.
Route:
Pick up and drop off your campervan in Hobart. To plan your route around the island, check out our Tasmania Loop guide.
Perth to Esperance
How much time?
7 to 9 days.
Best for:
Anyone who wants to feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem, loves beaches, and is after some solitude.
Here’s the thing: Western Australia doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s vast and remote, with some of the most untouched beaches you’ll ever see. If you’re craving an Easter break that feels like a getaway from the world, Perth to Esperance is where you need to be.
Weather Insight:
During Easter, the southern coast of Western Australia enjoys mild, sunny days with cooler evenings. The temperatures are perfect for enjoying long beach walks, swimming, or exploring national parks. It’s warm enough to lounge on the beach, but not too hot for hiking in the parks or vineyards. If you’re camping, you’ll find the nights comfortably cool, making it a great time for stargazing under dark, unpolluted skies.
Expect golden sands, turquoise waters, and the kind of peace that only comes from being far, far away from crowds. It’s the kind of place where you can pull up to a beach and have it all to yourself. Cape Le Grand National Park is the highlight, with its soft white sand and wild kangaroos lounging on the beach (seriously). Plus, Margaret River’s wine region is a perfect excuse to slow down, sip some local wine, and just… be.
Route: Pick up and drop off your campervan in Perth.
Brisbane to Cairns
How much time?
7 to 10 days.
Best for:
Reef lovers, rainforest seekers, and those who want the full tropical package.
If you’re dreaming of palm trees, warm waters, and the Great Barrier Reef, then this is the road trip for you. Brisbane to Cairns is a bit of a tropical wonderland, and Easter is the best time to visit. The humidity isn’t too oppressive, and the temperature is still warm, but the humidity is lower than in summer.
Weather Insight:
Easter in Queensland is fantastic for tropical adventures. The weather is warm enough to enjoy all the beaches and water activities but without the sticky humidity of the summer months. In the north, temperatures can hover around 27-30°C, making it great for diving, snorkeling, and swimming in the Great Barrier Reef. While rain is possible, it tends to be brief, leaving plenty of sunshine for your outdoor explorations.
The journey takes you past the most beautiful beaches in Queensland , Noosa, the Whitsundays, Mission Beach, and the famous Cairns , all with a mix of rainforest and the bright blue ocean that stretches on forever. Cairns is where the reef really comes to life, but if you feel like a pitstop in Magnetic Island or a walk through the Daintree Rainforest, you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
Route:
Pick up your campervan in Brisbane and drop off in Cairns . Check out our Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip guide.
Pro tip:
Also, check the possibility of doing the trip backwards, picking up in Cairns and dropping off in Brisbane. You might be surprised by how much the prices can vary depending on the direction. It could end up being more affordable or offer you different options, so it’s always worth comparing both ways!
How to Pick Your Perfect Easter Road Trip
Choosing the right trip can feel like an impossible decision, but it really comes down to what you’re after.
The point is this: Australia’s Easter season is a golden opportunity to see the country at its most relaxed, beautiful, and welcoming. There’s a road trip for everyone, just pick the one that speaks to you.
If you’re ready to rent a van for your adventure, explore our campervan options in Australia. If you’re looking for more road trip ideas, check out our guide to the top road trips in Australia.
