The ultimate Perth to Melbourne road trip itinerary

Starting in the vibrant city of Perth, your adventure begins when you pick up your motorhome from the maui Perth branch and take a moment to soak in the beauty of Perth. For nature enthusiasts, one of the best things to do in Perth, Australia, is to go hiking at Perth Hills hiking trails. Alternatively, delve into the city's rich history with a guided tour of the Fremantle Prison. 

After you roll into Margaret River, the delightful scent of chocolates will guide you to your first stop—the Margaret River Chocolate Factory. Treat yourself to a chocolate-filled tour, or sample some of their renowned chocolates. If cocoa isn't your thing, fret not! Margaret River is also famed for its world-class wineries. Treat yourself to a wine tasting or simply walk through the vineyards to soak up the beauty. Then, end the day by checking out some of the must-do culinary experiences in WA. In one short afternoon, you will have plenty of reasons to take a road trip to Margaret River.

Where to stay: Riverview Tourist Park.

Rise and shine because today's journey from Margaret River to Albany promises a blend of history, innovation, and nature. Once in Albany, dive into the town's history by visiting the Historic Whaling Station, where you will gain an in-depth understanding of Albany's past and its once-thriving whaling industry. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Western Australia for history buffs. Then make your way to the Albany Wind Farm to learn about sustainable energy and see the gentle turbine giants set against the backdrop of the vast ocean – it’s a sight to behold. 

Where to stay: Albany Happy Days Caravan Park

Day three beckons with the promise of another adventure as you set out for Bremer Bay. Once in town, for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, join the Bremer Bay Orca Experience. Witness the majestic Orcas in their natural habitat, and if you're lucky, you might spot other marine creatures like dolphins, sharks, and sea lions. If staying closer to the shore is more your vibe, the clear blue waters at Point Ann are a snorkelling paradise. Dive into the underwater world and greet the diverse marine life. The tranquil beach is also a perfect spot to park and cook up a gourmet motorhome meal as the sun sets.

Where to stay: Bremer Bay Caravan Park.

Leaving the scenic Bremer Bay behind, today we head towards the stunning coastlines of Esperance. With its breathtaking beaches and pristine bays, Esperance is a true Western Australian gem. First on the list to see in this region is the surreal pink hues of Lake Hillier. Easily one of the most beautiful and unique things to do in Western Australia, this pink-hued lake, set against a backdrop of lush green, offers a picturesque view unlike any other. Don't forget to snap some pictures! But Esperance isn’t just about pastel lakes. Next, head to Lucky Bay to meet the iconic kangaroos who lounge lazily on the white sands. Yes, you read that right! Here, wildlife and pristine beaches come together, offering you the quintessential Aussie beach experience.

Where to stay: RAC Esperance Holiday Park.

Day five beckons as you steer your motorhome to the intriguing terrains of Balladonia. While the name might be lesser known, as the sun dips below the horizon, prepare for a celestial experience. Balladonia's isolated location makes it one of the best stargazing spots in Australia. Adding to the cosmic theme, Balladonia is the perfect chance to delve into the history of the 1979 Skylab space debris. It’s not every day you find a location on Earth linked so directly to space. Learn more about how part of the space station ended up on Earth and see actual fragments of the Skylab at the local museum. 

Where to stay: Balladonia Hotel Motel.

Today it's time to navigate your motorhome across the vast plains from Balladonia to Madura across the great Australian Outback. One of Madura’s secrets is its prolific birdlife. For all you avian enthusiasts, this is a prime spot for birdwatching. From colourful Kingfishers to majestic eagles, the skies and trees here are swarming with activity. To help you identify these feathered wonders, use this handy birdwatching checklist tailored to the region. Next, head to the Madura Pass Lookout to soak up the sweeping views of the Roe Plains and the vast horizon before heading to camp for the night. 

Where to stay: Madura Roadhouse Caravan Park.

With your trusty campervan all packed up, it's time to gear up for an Outback drive to Coorabie. This region is known as the Nullarbor Plain and is the world's largest single exposure of limestone bedrock. Its vastness, occasionally punctuated by unique flora and fauna, made it the perfect setting for the world’s largest golf course stretching between Kalgoorlie and Ceduna. So if you fancy taking a shot, don't forget to bring a club or two to make a stop along the way! As you edge closer to Coorabie, take a detour to the Head of Bight for a spot of whale watching (seasonal). The expansive, sheer cliff views, coupled with majestic whales in their natural habitat, make it one of the most beautiful things to do in South Australia and the best lookout along the Nullabour Plain!

After navigating the five-hour stretch of Australia's untouched beauty, there is no better feeling than a swim in the refreshing waters of the Coorabie dams. Whether you're up for a swim or just want to lounge by the water with a good book, this is the place to be. As evening approaches, settle into camp in Fowlers Bay to witness the sun setting over the vast plains and dreamy ocean. 

Top tip: If you feel the drive from Madura to Coorabie is stretching a bit too long, consider stopping over at Eucla. The Eucla Caravan Park makes for a comfortable resting point. While here, take a moment to explore the nearby sand dunes and the old telegraph station, a relic from the past.

Where to stay: Fowlers Bay Caravan Park.

Having traversed a good part of Australia by now in your trusty motorhome, day eight is about immersing yourself in the rich culture of Ceduna with its coastal charm and indigenous heart. To learn about the local Aboriginal heritage, there's no better place to appreciate this than at the Ceduna Aboriginal Arts & Cultural Centre. Here, not only will you encounter striking pieces of traditional art, but you'll also have the chance to interact with local artists and gain insights into their world. Then, it's time to cast a line into the waters. With the sun setting, Ceduna’s bays offer an idyllic setting for fishing. From the local wharf or by boat, the region boasts an array of fish that will surely make for a perfect campervan dinner!

Where to stay: BIG4 Ceduna Tourist Park.

As you shift gears and move towards Port Augusta in your motorhome, the transition between the coastal plains to the rugged Outback becomes evident. It's a journey not just between two cities but between two vastly different terrains. Once you arrive, delve deep into the heart of Port Augusta's Aboriginal legacy with the Yarta Purtli Cultural Centre. This gallery offers an enriching walkthrough of local indigenous art, culture, and history. Then, climb up to the Water Tower Lookout for a bird's-eye view of Port Augusta and the adjoining Spencer Gulf and Flinders Ranges. With interpretive signs detailing the region's history, it’s both an educational and picturesque stop.

Where to stay: Shoreline Caravan Park

Bid farewell to Port Augusta and gear up for another day of adventuring through South Australia in your maui motorhome. The drive from Port Augusta to coastal Wallaroo is packed with scenic views, and once you've reached Wallaroo, there’s no better way to stretch out than with a refreshing swim. The iconic Wallaroo Jetty is not just a haven for snorkelers and divers but also a lovely place for a leisurely swim with its crystal-clear waters. If you're a history enthusiast or just curious about Australia’s mining legacy, stop by the Hughes Enginehouse. This restored treasure from the 1860s offers a deep dive into the region's rich mining heritage and is a South Australia must-see.

Where to stay: Wallaroo Beachfront Tourist Park.

Sitting snug in your maui campervan, the drive from Wallaroo to Adelaide marks a transition from peaceful coastal vibes to bustling urban charm. Adelaide, with its mix of contemporary and vintage, is sure to enchant. If you’re travelling with family or are a wildlife lover, Adelaide Zoo is a treat. From birdlife to kangaroos, the zoo is home to over 2,500 animals. It's an excellent opportunity to educate, explore, and have fun all at once! End the day with a visit to the serene waves and golden sands of Glenelg Beach. Whether it's about catching a sunset or taking a leisurely stroll, it's the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring the best things to do in Adelaide. 

Where to stay: Adelaide Caravan Park

Today, we set our campervan GPS towards the south-eastern side of Adelaide to reach Mount Gambier. The ever-changing landscapes, from coastal charms to volcanic wonders, ensure the drive is as intriguing as the destination. Mount Gambier is often cited as one of the best road trips from Melbourne, but it also makes for a perfect addition to this itinerary. The first stop? The Blue Lake is not just a visual spectacle; it's a natural phenomenon. This crater lake astonishingly changes its shade from sombre steel blue in winter to a vibrant cobalt blue in summer. An absolute must-see when exploring South Australia on a road trip. Next, ready yourself for an underground adventure to Engelbrecht Cave. This limestone cave system is found right in the heart of the city, offering a thrilling experience of cave diving for brave souls. For others, it's a fascinating place to understand the city's unique geology and the underground water system.

Where to stay: Mount Gambier Central Caravan Park.

Today’s journey from Mount Gambier to Portland is short but filled with wonders. Navigating through the scenic roads of Portland in your trusty maui campervan, it's time to explore the Petrified Forest and its unique Blowholes. These natural wonders are an ethereal combination of natural beauty and legends. The forest was believed to be a coastal forest engulfed by an advancing sandune that had petrified them into their present form. In reality, these limestone structures are called solution pipes and are created by erosion. While a little less whimsical than the petrified story, some pipes are over 20 meters high and are an amazing sight. Then, if the ocean intrigues you, then the Maritime Discovery Centre is the perfect next stop. Here you can discover Portland's rich maritime history, explore interactive exhibits and immerse yourself in the tales of the sea.

Where to stay: Portland Tourist Park.

As we drive our campervan from Perth to Melbourne, the next stop is Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city. This portion of the trip is a perfect mix of coastal vibes and industrial roots. The first stop in town is for the history buffs to explore Australia’s rich wool history at the National Wool Museum. With interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, it's a fun, educational experience for all ages. Then it’s time to stretch those legs and soak in the local culture as you take a walk along the Geelong Bollard Trail. These quirky wooden bollards, each representing a chapter of Geelong's history, will surely put a smile on your face to end the day. 

Where to stay: Discovery Parks - Geelong

It's the final day, and as we wrap up our once-in-a-lifetime road trip from Perth to Melbourne, the urban allure of Melbourne beckons. The city's art, culture, and cosmopolitan charm are the perfect culmination of this iconic coast-to-coast adventure. Melbourne is world-renowned for its vibrant street art, where alleyways, walls, and even trash bins become canvases for local artists. So what better way to begin exploring the top things to do in Melbourne, Australia, than going on a tour of the city’s art. For a tell-all on Melbourne’s best art, dive into this guide to find the best street art in Melbourne and witness Melbourne's soul.

Next up is Melbourne's skyline. What better way to see this beauty than to hop onto a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River? As the cityscape unfolds, it's a tranquil experience juxtaposed against the bustling city. When you’re finished, you can easily drop off your motorhome at the maui Melbourne branch and make your way home. 

Pick up your motorhome from maui in Perth and hit the road

And there we have it, 15 unforgettable days cruising from Perth to Melbourne! Ready to hit the road? Book your maui motorhome online today. If you are looking for the best road trips from Melbourne, you can also easily pick up your chosen motorhome from our Melbourne maui branch and to the trip in reverse! Are you still wondering how to choose the perfect ride for your journey? Check out our guide on choosing the right motorhome and more on the maui blog.