PERFECT Adelaide to Perth Road Trip (21 Days) + FREE Map

After doing the big lap twice, we reckon the stretch from Adelaide to Perth is one of the most spectacular (and underrated) road trips in Australia. 

You’ll go from wild beaches through sheer cliffs into ancient forests, cross a time zone, and tick off some gems most Aussies never get to.

This isn’t the quickest way to get from A to B, though. We made this itinerary 3 weeks long intentionally, because there’s so much worth checking out! 

You’ll love this road trip itinerary if you want a proper adventure, exploring the Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas, crossing the Nullarbor, and soaking up the best of WA’s south coast. 

Plus, if you’ve already seen a spot or it doesn’t spark your interest, just skip ahead to the next.

We included all our favourite stops, recommendations on where to stay, and things to do along the way. Plus a free map you can save to your phone and use offline!

There’s over 3000 km to cover, so let’s get started.

We recognise the traditional owners of the lands we’re exploring from Adelaide to Perth. 

Day 1: Adelaide to Marion Bay (3hr, 290km)

Kick off your road trip with a solid drive out of Adelaide and straight into the Yorke Peninsula. 

Leave early if you can, there’s a bit to see on the way and you’ll want time to settle in at Marion Bay.

The drive is easy, mostly flat, and you’ll hit a few classic country towns worth a pit stop:

• Port Clinton. The lookout here is a top spot to stretch your legs and grab a few photos of the coastline.
• Ardrossan. Don’t miss the Ardrossan Bakery! Their pies and pastries are next level.
• Minlaton. If you’re into craft beer, Watsacowie Brewery is a great spot. There’s also plenty of local produce if you want to stock up for the next few days.

Once you roll into Marion Bay, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city behind. It’s a tiny spot right on the edge of Innes National Park, so you’re set up for some epic coastal exploring tomorrow!

There’s not much in the way of shops, so make sure you’ve got what you need before you arrive.

Where to stay in Marion Bay?

You’ll be here for the next two nights, and Marion Bay is the best launchpad for exploring Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, the gem of the Yorke Peninsula. 

If you want a comfy spot close to the action, we recommend Marion Bay Holiday Villas. It’s an easy walk to the beach and you can actually relax after a big day out.

There are a couple of motels and caravan parks in town too, so you’ve got options if you want something simple and don’t fancy roughing it. Everything’s pretty close together, so you won’t be far from the pub or the general store.

If you’re self-contained and up for something a bit different, you can stay inside the national park itself. 

There are a few campgrounds (book ahead, they fill up quickly) and even some old historic rentals if you want to try something quirky!

Just make sure to bring your own supplies if you’re camping in the park, there are no shops once you’re in. 

Day 2: Dhilba-Guuranda-Innes National Park

You’ll want to spend the whole day exploring this park, there’s heaps to do and it’s all 2WD-friendly! Here are some ideas: 

• Pondalowie Bay is the go for surfing or casting a line. The waves are decent and the fishing’s usually good, especially off the rocks.
• Dolphin Beach is our pick for snorkelling. The water’s clear and calm, and you’ll spot plenty of fish close to shore.

• The Stenhouse Bay Jetty is a top spot for squidding, and the sunsets here are unreal. Bring your camera!
• Check out the lighthouses for some of the best views in the park. You’ll get a proper look at the coastline and might even spot a shipwreck or two.

If you want more ideas or details, we’ve got a full guide to the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park here! 

Day 3: Marion Bay to Port Augusta (4h, 370km)

Time to say goodbye to the Yorke Peninsula and hit the road north, to Port Augusta. There are a few spots worth pulling over for on the way:

• Minlaton if you didn’t stop there on the first day! Grab a coffee, a beer, or some snacks for the drive.
• Port Broughton. The local jetty is a great spot to stretch your legs. It’s a classic country town vibe and a good excuse to get out of the car for a bit.
• Port Germein, to snap a cheeky photo with the giant thong! (yep, the footwear). 

After that, it’s a straight run to Port Augusta.

It might not be the prettiest town, but there are some cool things to do there. Plus it’s handy for stocking up on supplies and fuel before you continue your drive.

Where to stay in Port Augusta?

Port Augusta’s got plenty of options since most people are just passing through. It’s known as “the crossroads of Australia” for a reason! 

Here are some recommendations: 

• Discovery Parks Port Augusta is our pick if you’re in a van or want a cabin. It’s got all the basics and a good location. 
• Pampas Motel is budget-friendly and does the job if you just want a clean, comfy bed for the night.  
• Majestic Oasis Apartments are a good spot if you prefer a self-contained apartment.

Day 4: Port Augusta to Port Lincoln (3.5hr, 340km)

Today you’re heading onto the iconic Eyre Peninsula, which is a bit wilder and less polished than the Yorke, but just as gorgeous. Plus the seafood is top-notch!

You’ll be based in Port Lincoln for three nights, plenty of time to check out the area before the big Nullarbor drive.

There are a couple of good stops on the way:

• Whyalla. Worth a look for the jetty, and if you’re here in winter, you might spot cuttlefish in the shallows.
• Cowell. This little town is all about oysters. Grab a dozen fresh from the farm, or just stretch your legs along the foreshore.

The drive is pretty easy, but it can get windy and there’s not much shade, so pack water and snacks. And fuel up before leaving Port Augusta, there aren’t heaps of options along the way.

Once you roll into Port Lincoln, get ready for some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat and a mind-blowing coastline!

Where to stay in Port Lincoln?

Port Lincoln is a big town so it has a good mix of places to choose from. Here are some great ones: 

• Port Lincoln Tourist Park is the go-to for caravans and campers. It’s right on the water and has plenty of space.
• Pier Hotel is a solid pick if you want a comfy room without blowing the budget, plus has a great location.
• Port Lincoln Hotel it’s a great spot if you’re after a bit of luxury. The rooms are big, the views are unreal, and it’s worth the splurge if you want to treat yourself before tackling the Nullarbor.

Day 5: Lincoln National Park

Lincoln National Park is absolutely beautiful! Plus entry is free, so you can just roll in and start exploring.

The northern part is all sealed roads, so 2WD is fine. You’ll find heaps of beautiful beaches, and there are campgrounds if you’re keen to stay overnight. 

The rest of the park is 4WD-only, so if you have one, definitely consider staying 1-2 extra days to explore! 

For more info on Lincoln NP campground fees and park alerts, go here..

Day 6: Coffin Bay

This is another iconic National Park, just a quick 30-minute drive from Port Lincoln, with free entry as well. 

The southern end, Yangie Bay, is 2WD-friendly and has some epic lookouts, bushwalks, and spots to launch a kayak if you’re keen for a paddle!

If you’ve got a high-clearance 4WD, definitely head to the northern side of the park. We haven’t been but we’re told the fishing and surf up there are next level, so it’s definitely on our bucket list!

For more info on Coffin Bay NP campground fees and park alerts, go here.

Day 7: Port Lincoln to Ceduna via Streaky Bay (4.5h, 405km)

Big drive today, so get an early start and break it up with a proper stop at Streaky Bay. The beach there is incredible so make the most of it, you won’t get another swim for the next 5-6 days!

If you’ve got time, wander the foreshore or grab a bite at one of the bakeries. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and recharge.

Streaky Bay is also worth a quick detour. The jetty’s a good spot for a stroll, and there are some caves nearby if you’re up for a bit of exploring.

Roll into Ceduna by late arvo. This is your last big town before the Nullarbor, so stock up on food, water, and fuel. Prices get wild from here!

Also remember that you’ll be crossing state lines in the next 2-3 days, so make sure that whatever food you bring can cross the border or at least you’ll eat it before then.

Here’s a list of what you can and can’t bring to WA.

Where to stay in Ceduna?

Ceduna has mostly caravan parks and motels, nothing flashy but it gets the job done. Here are some recommendations:

• BIG4 Ceduna Tourist Park is a reliable pick if you’re rolling in with a van or just want a simple cabin. It’s clean, has all the basics, and is close enough to walk into town.
• Ceduna Foreshore Hotel Motel is best if you want a more traditional accommodation. It has a great location right on the beach and at walking distance to everything.
• Ceduna Shelly Beach Caravan is worth a look if you want to squeeze in a beach day before heading across the Nullarbor. It’s a bit out of town but you get direct beach access and a quieter vibe.

Book ahead if you’re coming through in peak season, Ceduna gets busy with road trippers.

Day 8: Ceduna to Nullarbor Roadhouse via Penong (3hr, 296km)

Hit the road early from Ceduna and head straight for Penong. It’s a tiny town but worth a pit stop, especially for the Penong Windmill Museum. 

This open-air spot is filled with windmills (including the biggest in Australia) and is a good excuse to stretch your legs.

If the weather is good, definitely take the detour out to Lake MacDonnell! When the sun is out, you’ll see the iconic bright pink and electric blue waters split by a dirt road. 

But if it’s overcast, don’t expect much, maybe skip it altogether. The road was unsealed last time we went but in great conditions, so you’ll be fine in a 2WD unless it’s been raining.

If you’re on a 4WD and love surfing, you’ll LOVE Cactus Beach! The surf is incredible and there’s a nice campground. But only go there if you like surfing and don’t mind the long drive, it’s a bit remote. 

Back on the highway, it’s a straight drive to Nullarbor Roadhouse, where you’ll be staying for the night. There’s not much to see between Penong and the roadhouse, so take it easy. 

Day 9: Nullarbor Roadhouse to Eucla (2h, 197km)

If you’re travelling between June and October, start your day by heading to the Head of Bight for some of the best whale watching in the country! 

It’s a small entry fee and you’ll see the moms and calves swimming around real close, it’s incredible! Here’s more info if you’re keen. 

Back on the road, you’ll reach the Bunda Cliffs. They drop 120 metres straight into the ocean and stretch for ages! Definitely pull over at a lookout and take it in, but don’t get too close to the edge.

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the old Eyre Highway takes you to Koonalda Homestead. It’s abandoned, a bit eerie, and a cool spot for photos if you like that sort of thing.

You’ll also cross the SA/WA border today, and there’s a quarantine stop. They’re strict, so check this list so you don’t get caught out with banned stuff.

Once you hit Eucla, you’ll see it’s a very small town, but there are some cool things to do, like: 

• Go to the local museum for the story of the Nullarbor Nymph 
• Check out The Old Telegraph Station ruins, which are half-buried in sand dunes. It’s easy enough for a 2WD, but the signage is rubbish, so keep an eye out for the car park and walk from there. 
• Hike to the Eucla Jetty, it’s about a 20–30 minute walk from the Telegraph Station car park, but with no clear path. So bring a compass and only attempt it if you’re confident with navigation.

Where to stay?

You can’t technically freecamp on the Bunda Cliffs… but the views are some of the best you’ll ever see, especially at sunrise/sunset!

If you’re doing it, make sure to camp far away from the edge and brace yourself for some serious wind. It wasn’t too windy for us when we did it, but we still took precautions. 

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You can also stay at:

• Eucla, at the Eucla Motor Hotel & Caravan Park. They have rooms plus powered and unpowered sites. Give them a call to book your spot. 
• The Border Village Roadhouse, just before the state line. They’ve got clean rooms, powered sites, and run on their own “Border Time,” which is halfway between WA and SA!

Day 10: Eucla to Caiguna (3.5hr, 337km)

This stretch is long, flat, and not much to break it up… so, classic Nullarbor! Double-check your maps, music, podcasts, etc are available offline before tackling the road, reception is patchy at best.

The Nullarbor has a massive cave system underneath, so you’ll see some signs for caves along the way, but most are either closed or need a 4WD to reach.

If you want to check them out, the following caves are the most popular: 

• Weebubbie Cave
• Abrakurrie Cave
• Madura Cave
• Cocklebiddy Cave

Just don’t go without a plan, these caves are remote and can be dangerous.

There’s not much else at Caiguna except the roadhouse, so grab a bite, refuel, and get ready for another big drive tomorrow… It’s time for the 90-Mile Straight!

Where to stay in Caiguna?

There’s really only one option in Caiguna, the Caiguna Roadhouse. It has basic motel rooms, powered and unpowered sites, and a surprisingly decent restaurant for somewhere so remote.

The rooms are nothing fancy, but they’re clean and you’ll sleep well after a long drive. If you’re in a van or camping, the sites are flat and there’s enough space to spread out.

Day 11: Caiguna to Norseman (4hr, 371km)

You’ll see the 90-Mile Straight sign right as you leave the roadhouse, so stop to snap the iconic picture!

It’s Australia’s longest straight road and it’s both weirdly satisfying and boooring. It’s about a 1.5 drive long, so crank up some good music and enjoy the experience!

3-5 minutes after leaving Caiguna, you can check out the Caiguna blowhole if you’re keen!

It’s right off the highway and it’s literally a hole in the ground that “breathes”, as the air pressure of the underground cave system changes. Don’t expect a geyser or anything dramatic, but it’s fun to hear the “whoosh”.

Some tips for driving the 90-Mile straight and the rest of this road trip:

• Try doing it early in the morning, especially in summer. We did it during a heatwave and it was BRUTAL! Not recommended. 
• Also avoid doing it at dusk, there’s a big risk of wildlife crossing the road unexpectedly. 
• Don’t expect phone reception.
• Keep an eye out for road trains and the odd emu darting across.

Then stop at Balladonia (the west end of the 90-Mile Straight) to stretch your legs and reset your brain. The Balladonia Museum is worth a look. It’s got bits of NASA’s Skylab that crashed here in ’79!

Then arrive in Norseman by late arvo. There’s not a heap to do in town, but you’ll be stoked to have finished the Nullarbor crossing.

Where to stay in Norseman?

Norseman’s not exactly buzzing, but it’s a handy overnight stop. 

There’s a free RV campground in town, nothing fancy, but it does the job if you’re self-contained and just need somewhere to park up.

If you want a proper bed, The Railway Hotel is right in the centre. It’s basic, but you’ll get a hot shower and a feed at the pub.

The Great Western Motel is another option with motel-style rooms and a pool, which is a bonus if it’s stinking hot.

Day 12-14: Norseman to Esperance (2hr, 204km)

Instead of going from Norseman to Perth (takes 2 days, stopping in Kalgoorlie and Southern Cross) take the coastal detour to Esperance, one of our favourite places in all of Australia. 

Most people don’t visit the area often as it’s so remote, but it’s a 2-hour drive from Norseman. An opportunity like that is hard to come by, so don’t waste it! You won’t regret it, trust us. 

Leave Norseman early so you can actually enjoy a full day in Esperance. We recommend spending 3 full days there!

And honestly, after the long, flat Nullarbor, this place feels like a reward. There’s heaps to do, and the beaches are next-level.

Here are our top picks of things to do in Esperance:

• Wharton Beach, our absolute favourite beach in the whole country! It’s so pristine, with great surfing, fishing, epic sunsets, and you can 4WD on the beach if you’re keen. There’s also a great caravan park, Duke of Orleans. 
• Twilight Beach, another favourite, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or surfing. There’s a massive boulder just offshore perfect for jumping into the water (we do it every time we go!).

• Lucky Bay, famous for being the whitest beach in the country, and you’ll probably spot kangaroos just chilling on the sand! We think it’s a bit overrated though, but it’s still cool to visit. 
• Climb Frenchman’s Peak. It’s a bit of a scramble, but the views from the top are unreal and totally worth the effort!

If you want even more ideas, check out our full list of things to do in Esperance!

Where to stay in Esperance?

Esperance has a surprising variety of accommodations for being so remote! You can either stay at the town centre or at Cape Le Grand National Park, here are some spots we recommend:

• Duke of Orleans is our favourite caravan park there! It’s on Wharton Beach, in the national park. It’s a bit out of town, but the location makes up for it.
• Lucky Bay Campground is the one everyone wants. It’s great too but books out fast, so definitely try to grab your spot asap. 
• If you’d rather stay in town, definitely check out Esperance Island View Apartments and Esperance Bay Holiday Park, both are great options.

Day 15: Esperance to Bremer Bay (4hr, 390km)

If you’re doing this road trip between January and April, you’re in luck! It’s orca season, with the biggest gathering of orcas in the southern hemisphere. 

It’s a must-do if you’re there in season! We absolutely loved it, although Bec had a hard time with seasickness (bring pills!). Still 100% worth it! 

These are full-day tours, though. If you want to do it, plan on staying 2 days in Bremer, one for the tour and another to check out the area. 

If you’re keen, here’s our full guide with our orca tour experience, best operators, and things to know before doing it.

Bremer Bay isn’t just about orcas though. There are heaps to do there and the beaches are unreal, here are some recommendations:

• Bremer Beach. Calm water, perfect for swimming and lazing about.
• Blossoms Beach and Back Beach. Both are top picks if you’re keen to surf.
• Fishery Beach. Easy boat access if you want to get out on the water.

Where to stay in Bremer Bay?

Bremer Bay isn’t huge, but you’ve got a couple of solid options for where to stay. We recommend these, both have excellent locations: 

• Bremer Bay Caravan Park is just a short stroll to the beach. There’s a mix of chalets, budget cabins, and powered sites, so you can pick what suits your setup (and your wallet).
• Bremer Bay Resort is a 3-star hotel right in the town centre. It has a surprisingly good restaurant, and the rooms can fit up to 5 if you’re travelling as a group.

Day 16: Bremer Bay to Albany (2hr, 180km)

We’re obsessed with Albany! Honestly, it’s one of the few places in Australia we’ve ever considered moving to. It has everything: epic beaches, museums, and some of the best food in WA.

If you can, give yourself at least a full day here. Here’s what we reckon you shouldn’t miss:

• Misery Beach, rated the best beach in Australia in 2022! It’s anything but miserable, and it’s excellent for fishing and surfing.
• Emu Point Beach, super calm, great for a swim or just lazing about.
• The Gap and Natural Bridge, for truly impressive views. You’ll feel the raw power of the ocean there. 
• National ANZAC Centre, even if you’re not a museum person. This one’s powerful and really well done.

There’s heaps more to do in Albany, so if you want extra ideas, check out our full guide here.

Where to stay in Albany?

Albany has heaps of options, whether you want to be close to the action or tucked away by the water. Here are a few we truly enjoy:

• Emu Point Holiday Park is a top pick if you’re travelling in a van or want a cabin. It’s right near the beach and nice and quiet at night.
• Middleton Beach Holiday Park is another solid choice, especially if you want to be close to cafes and the foreshore. The facilities are clean and it’s a good spot for families.
• Pelicans Albany is a comfy hotel right in town, so you can walk to most things.
• Hilton Garden Inn is the spot if you want a bit of luxury. We loved our stay there, the rooms are modern and the views over the harbour are pretty hard to beat.

Day 17: Albany to Pemberton via Denmark (3hr, 250km)

You’ll notice the scenery flipping from wild coastline to thick forest today, the drive will be incredible! 

Start early and head to your first stop, Denmark, about 40 minutes from Albany. 

Spend the morning on Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool. They’re a short walk from each other, and the water’s usually calm and clear, perfect for a swim!

There’s a lot more to do in Denmark, here are some ideas if you want to stay there for longer.

Back on the road, make time for a quick stop at Walpole’s Giant Tingle Tree. It’s a short, easy walk that packs a punch, you’ll feel in a fairy forest!

Then roll into Pemberton in the arvo. There are heaps to do here, from climbing fire lookout trees to exploring the old timber town. Here’s our guide to Pemberton if you want to make the most of your stay!

Where to stay in Pemberton?

Pemberton is small, but you’ve got a few solid options for a good night’s sleep. Here are our picks:

• RAC Karri Valley Resort is the spot if you want to wake up right on the lake, surrounded by towering karri trees. It’s a bit pricier, but the views and wildlife are worth it if you’re keen on nature.
• Gloucester Motel is your best bet if you’re watching your wallet. It’s smack in the middle of town, so you can walk to the bakery or pub without fuss.
• Karri Forest Motel sits a bit further out, tucked amongst the trees. It’s quieter, and you’ll feel like you’re properly in the forest.

Day 18: Pemberton to Augusta (1.5hr, 130km)

Welcome to the Margaret River region! 

Start your morning in Pemberton and check out the Gloucester Tree and Dave Evans Bicentennial, two massive trees that used to be fire lookouts. 

They used to be climbable but are undergoing some repairs at the moment.

At the time of writing, you can only climb the first section of the Dave Evans. Give it a try if you’re not afraid of heights!

Once you’ve had your fill of the forest, hit the road towards Augusta. It’s a cruisy drive and you’ll be at the coast before you know it.

In Augusta, head straight to Granny’s Pool. It’s a sheltered spot with calm water, perfect for a swim or just relaxing. 

And don’t skip the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse! It’s where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, and the views are wild (bring a jacket, it gets windy). 

If you want to squeeze in more, here’s our full list of things to do in Augusta. There’s plenty to keep you busy before you settle in for the night.

Where to stay in Augusta?

If you’re rolling in with a caravan or tent, Turner Holiday Park is right on the river and has plenty of space. It’s a classic spot for campers and you can walk to the water in no time.

The Augusta Hotel is right in the centre of town and usually has some of the best prices going. The rooms are basic but clean, and you can stroll to the pub or grab a meal without needing to drive.

Day 19: Augusta to Margaret River via Jewel Cave and Hamelin Bay (45m, 53km)

Kick off your drive to Margaret River town with a tour of Jewel Cave, the biggest show cave in WA. It’s quite an experience, the rock formations are wild! You’ll need to book the tour ahead. 

Next stop is Hamelin Bay, where the famous stingrays swim right up to the shore! 

They’re absolutely beautiful, and if you’re patient, one might swim up to you. But don’t forget they’re wild animals, so don’t touch them or feed them. 

Then continue with the scenic route through the Boranup Forest. The karri trees are massive and the light in here is magic, especially if you’re into photography. It’s an epic spot for a picnic, too.

Finally roll into Margaret River. The sunsets at Surfer’s Point are unforgettable! Even if you’re not into surfing, the views and vibe are unreal.

Where to stay in Margaret River?

Margs has heaps of accommodation options for all budgets and likes! Here are our picks:

• Margaret River Tourist Park is ideal if you’re camping or caravanning and want to be close to the town centre. 
• Prideau’s of Margaret River is a solid hotel right in the centre. You can park the car and walk to pretty much everywhere in town, which is handy after a few wine tastings *wink*

Day 20: Margaret River to Busselton (40min, 45km)

Margaret River is a destination in itself so a full day might not feel like enough, so here’s our full list if you want to pick and choose what to do! 

If you’re into wine (or just want someone else to drive), a full-day wine tour is the way to go. You’ll get to taste the good stuff without stressing about who’s on water duty.

Not a wine person? The beaches around here are unreal! Check out our favourite beaches in the region if you’re keen for a swim or a lazy arvo.

And when you’re ready, it’s an easy 40-minute drive to Busselton for your last night on the road. Grab some fish and chips by the water and soak up the views at the foreshore.

Where to stay in Busselton?

Busselton has loads of options, whether you want to be right in town or tucked away somewhere quieter. Here are a few we like:

• RAC Busselton Holiday Park is a top pick if you’re travelling in a van or with the family. It’s got heaps of space, a pool, and is a short drive from the jetty.
• Restawile Motel is a solid budget choice. The rooms are simple but clean.
• Nightcap at the Ship Inn is right in the centre with a lively pub downstairs. It can get a bit noisy on weekends, but it’s a fun spot if you want to be close to the action.
• Hilton Garden Inn Busselton is the one to book if you’re keen for a bit of luxury. We LOVED staying there and had some of the best sleep we’ve ever had! Plus it’s right on the foreshore so the views are incredible.

Day 21: Busselton to Perth (2h20m, 223km)

There’s plenty to do in Busselton, but if you’re up for it, we reckon you should start your day with a snorkel under the Busselton Jetty! It’s one of our fave spots in the southwest, and they have some really cool underwater sculptures to check out.

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If you’d rather stay dry, there’s an underwater observatory at the end of the jetty, so you can still see the marine life under the pylons. Tickets to the observatory here! 

You can also take a quick 20-minute drive west to Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste. The beaches out there are iconic, our favourites are Meelup Beach and Bunker Bay. 

There’s also the iconic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for some really cool views and whale-watching opportunities when in season. 

There are plenty more things to do in Busselton if you want to squeeze in a few extras, here’s our list if you’re keen.

Then it’s time to hit the road to Perth and wrap up your trip.

Once you’re in Perth, there’s honestly sooo much to do! We grew up here so we know all the good stuff, check out our full Perth guide if you want to keep the adventure going.

Planning your road trip from Adelaide to Perth

Do you need a 4WD for this road trip?

No, you can easily do this full itinerary with a normal car. But there are some cool 4WD-only spots mostly in the Eyre Peninsula (Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay) and Esperance if you’re keen. 

You’ll also need a high-clearance vehicle if you want to check out the caves around the Nullarbor.

Renting a car or a caravan

You can rent a car in Adelaide and drop it off in Perth, which is super handy for this trip! 

We always recommend comparing prices in Booking’s car rental and Discover Cars, then book with the one who gives you the best deals! 

If you prefer a caravan, these companies let you pick up in Adelaide and drop off in Perth:

• JUCY Campervans. Mid-range, good prices, and definitely try to book one with a bathroom, it’ll make life on the road SO much easier.
• Star RV. These are basically homes on wheels, with all the comforts you could want! 

Just double-check the fine print for one-way fees and make sure your rental covers the route you’re planning.

Best time to drive from Adelaide to Perth

If you want the best shot at good weather, aim for spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). The days are pleasant, not too hot or cold, and you’ll actually enjoy getting out of the car for a walk.

Winter (June to August) brings strong winds and chilly temps, especially along the coast. It’s quieter, but you’ll be layering up and dodging rain more often than not.

Summer (December to February) is the worst time in our opinion. Mostly because the Nullarbor turns into an oven and there’s also a real risk of bushfires, which can close off national parks and mess with your plans.

What to bring

First and foremost, download EVERYTHING so it’s accessible offline – maps, music, podcasts… Mobile service is patchy at best.

A tyre pressure gauge and a decent spare are non-negotiable, and a reflective windscreen shade will save you from sitting in a mobile oven.

Fly nets are a lifesaver in summer, trust us. Bring a camera with a zoom lens if you’re keen on snapping cliffs or spotting whales from a distance.

And don’t forget a small first-aid kit, jumper leads, and a few basic tools, better to have them and not need them! 

Access to National Parks

Most national parks on the SA side are free to enter, but once you cross into WA, some parks (like Cape Range near Esperance) charge an entry fee per vehicle, per day.

If you head in and out on different days, you’ll need to pay the fee each time, which can add up quickly.

If you’re planning to visit a few parks or want to go back to the same one more than once, a holiday or multi-day pass usually works out cheaper.

You can grab a pass online or at visitor centres before you go exploring! Check the WA Parks and Wildlife Service website for the latest on fees, maps, and to buy your pass if you need one.

Top Tips

Fuel is priciest on the Nullarbor, sometimes 30-60% more than you’re used to, so come prepared.

Also, always top up if you’re under half a tank, because the next servo could be anywhere from 65 to 180 km away. Especially from Ceduna to Esperance.

Reception is patchy, but usually Telstra holds up. Still, download your maps before you go!

Did you know?

This coastal itinerary from Perth to Adelaide is around 3,300 km, more than driving from London to Istanbul! 

You’ll cross two official time zones along the way, including a stretch with its own unofficial “Central Western Time” that only locals and truckies seem to follow.

It’s also one of the rare road trips where you’ll roll from epic beaches to a massive desert and then straight into forests and wine country, all in a single journey. 

It’s a drive that feels like crossing a whole continent, because, well, you pretty much are!

FAQs