Let’s be honest: Australian summers are too good to waste sitting in air-conditioning binging TV shows you’ve already seen twice.
The days are long, the sun is blazing, and the whole country is basically in holiday mode. It’s the prime time to pack a bag, grab a set of keys, and hit the road.
But Australia is huge, and you don’t want to spend your precious leave driving for 12 hours just to find a mediocre beach. You need a plan.
We’ve done the hard work for you. Here are 5 unbeatable spots to visit this summer that guarantee sun, adventure, and memories you won’t need a filter for.
Gold Coast, Queensland: The Ultimate Summer Playground
If your ideal summer involves golden sand, world-class surf, and a nightlife scene that doesn’t quit, the Gold Coast is a no-brainer.
Sure, Surfers Paradise is the famous face, but having your own wheels unlocks the real magic. Drive south to Burleigh Heads for a more relaxed vibe and watch the pros carve up the point break. Head inland to the lush Gold Coast Hinterland for cool rainforest walks and waterfalls when the beach heat gets too much. Or, pile the family into an SUV and spend a day screaming your lungs out at the theme parks.
The Gold Coast isn’t just a beach; it’s an entire summer itinerary in one place. Grab a Gold Coast car hire and start exploring it all.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland: The Chill Alternative
Think of the Sunshine Coast as the Gold Coast’s more relaxed sibling. It’s got the same incredible weather and stunning beaches, but without the high-rises and frenetic energy.
This is the spot for a laid-back summer road trip. Base yourself near Noosa to browse the boutiques and walk the stunning National Park coastal track (keep an eye out for koalas). Then, jump in the car and cruise down to Mooloolaba to grab fresh prawns straight off the trawler for lunch. Drive inland to explore the quirky mountain villages of Montville and Maleny, offering epic views back towards the coast.
It’s the perfect blend of beach bum life and hinterland charm. If you’re flying in from interstate, hire a car in Brisbane and head north for an easy drive to the Sunshine Coast.
Mornington Peninsula, Victoria: Melbourne’s Summer Escape
When Melbourne heatwaves hit, the smart money heads south to the Mornington Peninsula. It’s less than 90 minutes from the CBD, but it feels like a different world.
This little boot-shaped piece of land punches way above its weight. You can spend the morning swimming at a calm bayside beach like Sorrento, and the afternoon tasting your way through some of Australia’s best Pinot Noir at dozens of cellar doors. Cap off the day with a soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs or grab fish and chips on the pier at Flinders.
Having a vehicle is essential here—the best spots are spread out, and you won’t want to miss a thing. Pick up a reliable Melbourne rental car and make the easy drive south to escape the city.
Byron Bay, New South Wales: Where Bohemia Meets Luxury
Byron Bay has evolved from a sleepy hippie town into a premier summer destination, but it hasn’t lost its soul. It’s still the place to go for incredible surf breaks, stunning coastal walks up to the famous lighthouse, and a vibe that forces your shoulders to relax the second you arrive.
But don’t just get stuck in the town centre. A car is your ticket to escaping the summer crowds. Drive out into the stunning Byron Hinterland to explore the crystal-clear swimming holes near Bangalow or visit the eclectic markets in nearby Mullumbimby.
Byron is great; the surrounding region is even better. Land at the airport, grab a cheap car rental on the Gold Coast, and cruise down the highway across the border to holiday nirvana.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria: The Iconic Road Trip
Some things are famous for a reason. Driving the Great Ocean Road in summer is a bucket-list experience that actually lives up to the hype.
Cruising that winding coastal asphalt with the windows down and the ocean crashing next to you is pure driving freedom. Yes, the Twelve Apostles are incredible, but the journey is packed with other gems. Stop at Bells Beach to watch the surfers, spot wild koalas in the trees at Kennett River, and grab a pie in the seaside town of Lorne.
This isn’t a trip for a bus tour. You need your own wheels to take it at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you want, and find your own hidden beach along the way. Organise your car hire from Melbourne and hit the road early to beat the tour buses.
Stop Planning, Start Driving
Summer doesn’t last forever. Don’t let it slip away while you’re scrolling through other people’s holiday photos. Pick your spot, get the right vehicle, and get out there.
We’ve got the fleet to handle everything from a solo coastal cruise to a full family road trip, all at prices that leave you with more money for ice cream. Check out our latest deals and book your summer ride today.
