Highway 1: The World’s Longest Road Adventure…
Time to Hit the Road, Lefty Style
There’s a road that circles the entire Australian continent, and it’s waiting for you to conquer it. Spanning 14,500 kilometres (9,000 miles), Highway 1 is the longest national highway in the world, connecting the country’s major cities, stunning coastlines, and remote outback in a massive loop that crosses all 7 states and territories. If you’re a backpacker chasing adventure, or a local looking to explore your own backyard, this epic route will get your heart racing and your spirit soaring.
We’re all about living boldly, going where others don’t, and pushing boundaries, and there’s no better way to experience that than by taking on Highway 1. From surfing at sunrise on the east coast to watching the sunset over the desert in the west, this journey is your chance to see the real Australia, the wild, unexpected, and beautiful.
Get ready to explore like a Lefty with 50 must see spots and insider tips for the ultimate Highway 1 adventure!
Every State, Every Vibe
Highway 1 is your ticket to experiencing the full diversity of Australia. The route passes through 20+ major cities, from the chilled out surf towns of the east to the rugged coastlines of the west. You can take the journey as fast or slow as you like, but we recommend setting aside 2-3 months to soak it all in and live the adventure.
Sydney – Kickstart your trip in this buzzing city, a mix of beach culture and urban energy.
Melbourne – Find hidden gems in Australia’s cultural capital, with laneways full of street art, coffee, and music.
Brisbane – Gateway to Queensland’s tropical north and the laid back surf lifestyle.
Perth – Remote and wild, but packed with endless sunshine and some of the best beaches in the country.
Darwin – Northern Territory’s tropical capital where adventure never stops.
Adelaide – Slow down and enjoy the wine, festivals, and chill vibes.
Hobart – History, nature, and that fresh Tasmanian air that makes everything feel a little crisper.
Epic Landscapes, Endless Adventures
From rainforests to deserts, mountains to beaches, Highway 1 gives you front row seats to Australia’s most stunning landscapes. This is a journey where you can swim with whale sharks one day and camp under the stars in the desert outback the next.
Great Barrier Reef – Snorkel or dive into this world famous marine wonderland.
Daintree Rainforest – Trek through the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, where ancient ferns meet wild rivers.
Uluru – Australia’s spiritual heart and one of the most iconic spots in the world.
Great Ocean Road – Rugged coastal cliffs, famous surf breaks, and the awe inspiring Twelve Apostles.
Ninety Mile Beach – A vast, untouched stretch of golden sand.
Kimberley Region – A wild, remote expanse with red cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and untamed beauty.
Lucky Bay – Where kangaroos literally chill on the beach. No joke, this is peak Australia.
Ocean Air and Endless Horizon
We’re all about working hard and playing harder, and the Australian coastline offers endless opportunities for both. Whether you’re a surfer, diver, or beach lounger, Highway 1 brings you to Australia’s best coastal gems.
K’gari (Fraser) Island – The world’s largest sand island and a backpacker’s paradise.
Cable Beach – Picture this: a sunset camel ride along the shore in Broome.
Lake Macquarie – Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, perfect for a relaxing detour.
Byron Bay – Kick back at Australia’s most famous hippie town.
Phillip Island – Home to the famous penguin parade.
Monkey Mia – Play with the dolphins in this magical spot on the Western coast.
Wild Outback Adventures
For those who thrive on pushing the limits, Highway 1 isn’t just about the coast. It takes you deep into Australia’s rugged, untamed outback. If you’re craving solitude, adventure, and that untethered feeling of being completely off the grid, you’ll find it here.
Nullarbor Plain – The longest stretch of straight road in Australia. Get ready for 146 km of pure, empty horizon.
Kakadu National Park – Watch giant crocs at Cahills Crossing, and explore ancient Aboriginal rock art.
Alice Springs – Your basecamp for the red centre and outback adventures.
Coober Pedy – Famous for its underground homes and the finest opals in the world.
Mataranka Hot Springs – A perfect spot to relax after a long stretch of driving.
Kangaroos, Dolphins & More
Australia’s wildlife is iconic, and Highway 1 takes you to the best spots for seeing it up close. Whether it’s penguins on the southern coast or crocodiles in the north, this road trip brings you face to face with the country’s wild side.
Kangaroo Island – Spot kangaroos, koalas, and seals in their natural habitat.
Cradle Mountain – One of Tasmania’s most famous spots for wildlife and wilderness.
Townsville – A jumping off point to the Great Barrier Reef and home to vibrant marine life.
Stockton Beach – 4WD over sand dunes while spotting wild camels.
Walk in Australia’s Footsteps
Explore the deep roots of Australia’s history and culture, from Indigenous heritage to convict pasts. Each state tells a different story, and Highway 1 lets you walk in those footsteps.
Albany – Where the ANZAC troops departed for World War I, and a significant historical point.
Port Arthur – This former convict settlement is one of Tasmania’s most haunting historical sites.
Kakadu – Dive into the heart of Aboriginal culture through ancient cave art that dates back 65,000 years.
The Wild Island on Highway 1
For those looking to take their journey further, hop on a ferry and head to Tasmania, where Highway 1 continues across the island. Tasmania is where wild landscapes meet rich history, a must do for any serious traveller.
Ferry to Tasmania – Experience the thrill of crossing the Bass Strait to one of Australia’s most beautiful regions.
Wineglass Bay – Hike to this picture perfect beach in Freycinet National Park.
Cradle Mountain – Rugged mountains and crystal clear lakes. You’ve never seen nature like this before.
Live the Adventure, Highway 1 Style
Highway 1 is more than just a road. It’s a chance to explore the unknown and experience Australia in all its raw beauty. This is a journey for those who aren’t afraid to take the long road, to dive into the wild, and come out the other side changed.
Live boldly, connect with new experiences, and challenge the status quo. Whether you’re heading out solo, with your mates, or even as part of the Lefty Crew, Highway 1 is your ultimate bucket list item.
So, are you ready to take on the world’s longest national highway and discover the real Australia?
