Melbourne to Canberra: Road Trip Itinerary

Leaving behind the buzz of Melbourne, you’ll be trading flat whites for forest trails and golden beaches. Wilsons Prom is where the real vanlife dream starts. Untouched nature, secret coves, mountain hikes and wombats just casually wandering about. It’s a big day on the road, but trust me, it sets the tone for an epic week.

Distance: 230km
Drive time: About 3.5 hrs (longer if ya take the detours, which ya should)

What To See

Fairy Cove

A proper hidden gem at the Prom. Turquoise waters, golden sand, and barely another soul around. Hit it at low tide for max beach space. We parked up, hiked in, and didn’t want to leave.

The Big Drift – Surreal Sunset Spot

It feels like you’ve walked into another world. Huge rolling sand dunes and endless views in every direction, perfect for a sunset sesh. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Stockyard Camp carpark, and trust us, the effort is worth it. Don’t forget a torch if you’re hanging around after dark!

Where To Eat

Little Oberon Café (Tidal River)

Their coffee’s top-tier and the pastries are next level. Post up here before a big hike or swing back in the arvo for a sweet treat and a sit-down in the sun.

Trulli Cucina Povera (Meeniyan – Pizza) 

A rustic Italian gem in the middle of a tiny Gippsland town. We stumbled in here and were hit with fresh wood-fired pizzas, dreamy pasta, and warm, homestyle vibes. Legit one of the best meals on the trip. Defs worth the detour.

Promontory Restaurant & Winery (Yanakie – Dinner)

Post-hike sunset dinner with a glass of local wine? Don’t mind if we do. This spot is all about the views and the vino. Nab a table outside and settle in, I wouldn’t skip this one!

Where To Sleep

Tidal River Campground

An all-time Aussie camping experience. Big open sites, clean facilities and right by the water. We had wombats cruising past at dusk and fell asleep to the sound of the ocean. Doesn’t get more vanlife than this.

Just Inside the Gate

If you’re vibing a more luxe stay without ditching nature, this eco lodge is the one. It’s got solar showers, big timber decks and bushland all around. Quiet, comfy and a beaut option for couples.

Wilsons Prom Wilderness Retreat

Cabin-style stays with a cosy vibe and loads of greenery. You’re still close to the action but can enjoy a proper bed, hot shower and morning coffee on your porch. Low-key but super comfy.

One day here is never enough… but we’ll make it count.

With trails for days, postcard-worthy beaches and wildlife around every corner, this place is a certified banger. Whether you’re keen for a big summit hike, a lazy beach day or a boat cruise along the rugged coast, the Prom delivers. Slow the pace, soak it all in,  this one’s for the memory bank.

What To See

Mt Oberon

This short, punchy hike gives you the iconic view over the Prom. It’s an easy-to-follow trail with a switchback climb to the top. Views from the summit? Next level. Bring a jacket, it’s windy up there, and your phone, because you’ll wanna snap the lot.

Skull Rock Cruise

Think seals, sea stacks and wild rugged coastline. The boat tour takes you out to the southern tip of the park and gives you a different look at the landscape. We saw a pod of dolphins and chilled seal colonies – proper David Attenborough stuff.

Tidal Creek & Norman Beach

Right by the campground and perfect for a lazy morning swim or an arvo sunbathe. It’s sheltered, chill and not too busy. Keep an eye out,  we spotted a seal just bobbing along past the shore.

Squeaky Beach 

You can’t come to the Prom and skip this one. The sand literally squeaks under your feet, the water is crystal clear, and the granite boulders give it that postcard look. Go early for sunrise or stay for sunset, it’s magic either way.

Where To Eat

Tidal River General Store

Nothing fancy but it’s got all the essentials, toasties, hot meals, coffee and plenty of snacks. Good spot to top up your supplies or grab a lazy lunch between beach missions.

Wilsons Prom Cafe Bakery (Yanakie – Coffee Stop)

Cute roadside bakery with a solid pastry game. We grabbed coffees and croissants for the drive out. Great little stop for a morning feed.

South Gippsland Wineries (Wine Tasting)

You’re spoilt for choice in this region, but the smaller family-run spots had the best vibes. Think chill cellar doors, rolling hills, and wine that actually tastes like something. We tried a cracking pinot noir at one and didn’t leave empty-handed.

Where To Sleep

Tidal River Campground

Still the go-to for day two. We liked it so much we booked another night. Nothing like waking up and strolling straight onto the trail or beach without needing to drive anywhere.

Toora Tourist Park

Just 30 mins from Wilsons Prom, Toora Tourist Park is a reliable budget base with cracking views of Corner Inlet and the mountains in the distance. It’s got powered and unpowered sites, clean cabins, and even an indoor heated pool (yes please). Facilities are well-kept, staff are legends, and the nearby pub is an easy dinner win. 

Back on the road and heading for the lakes.

Today’s drive is a stunner. Think country towns, rolling hills and plenty of reasons to stop along the way. Lakes Entrance brings coastal energy with a laid-back feel. Paddleboard sessions, hot springs, and some seriously delish eats make it the perfect place to reset halfway through the trip.

Distance: 260km
Drive time: 4 hrs

What To See

Raymond Island

Short ferry ride from Paynesville drops you into wild koala territory. The walking track loops around the island and you’ll spot koalas snoozing in trees left, right and centre. Great pit stop and feels like a little wildlife safari.

Lonsdale Cruises (Gippsland Lakes)

Chilled-out boat tour with lake views, birdwatching, and the chance to just kick back while someone else does the driving for a bit. Bonus points for a cheeky drink on deck while you cruise.

Venture Out Paddleboards

Super peaceful, easy to pick up, and a good way to earn that arvo gelato. Great core workout too if you’re up for it.

Metung Hot Springs

One word: bliss. Natural pools set in the hills with dreamy views of the surrounding valleys. We booked an evening soak and it was the perfect way to wind down after a full day’s drive.

Lakes Entrance Walking Track

Easy walking trail that winds from bush to beach with plenty of scenic lookouts along the way. Great for stretching the legs and soaking up the views of the waterways.

Where To Eat

Salty Groms (Brekkie)

Beachy café with laid-back vibes and a brekkie menu that bangs. We smashed avo toast, sipped iced lattes and soaked up the morning sun. It’s relaxed, local and doesn’t try too hard.

Wyanga Park Winery (Lunch & Wine)

Tucked away in the bush, this spot has a deck with views, cracking wines and hearty feeds. You wouldn’t expect this level of food from a little regional winery,  we were pleasantly surprised.

Sea Shanty (Dinner)

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. We went for the chowder and it might’ve been the best we’ve ever had,  thick, rich and packed with local catch. Cute vibe inside, too.

Where To Sleep

NRMA Eastern Beach Holiday Park

Perfect for campers and vanlifers. Clean, spacious, pet-friendly, and walking distance to the beach. We rolled in, set up, and had cold drinks on the deck within 30 minutes.

Silver Sands Tourist Park

Super central and well-equipped with cabins and powered sites. Good option for families or those wanting a bit more structure to their stay. Everything was clean, organised and easy.

Goat & Goose BnB

Homey little guesthouse with big views and even bigger hospitality. We were greeted with a treat pack, had a proper comfy sleep, and left feeling refreshed. One of those under-the-radar gems.

A longer stretch, but worth every kilometre.

You’ll cruise through some of the most underrated parts of the coast on your way up to Batemans Bay. Think secret swim spots, sleepy towns, and beaut nature stops that most people skip. It’s a day for ocean views, beach picnics and maybe even a cheeky whale sighting if the season’s right.

Distance: 370km
Drive time: 5–6 hrs

Tip: This is one of the longer driving days of the trip. If you wanna break it up, we recommend a stopover in Eden, it’s a beautiful little town with a fantastic rockpool, some cracking eats, and even a museum all about killer whales.

What To See

Burrewarra Point Banksia Walk

A low-key trail with wild coastal views and banksia blooms all around. Come in spring and there’s a good chance of spotting whales offshore. One of those places that makes you slow down and breathe it all in.

Richmond Beach

Tucked-away cove with calm waters and not many people. We packed lunch, had a swim and chilled out for a few hours. Bring a snorkel if you’ve got one, there’s marine life around the rocks!

Batemans Bay Cycleway

Flat and scenic ride along the water’s edge. You can rent bikes or just stroll it, but it’s the perfect way to shake out the legs after the drive. Cafes along the way for a sneaky coffee too.

Lilli Pilli Rockpool: a Hidden Swim Spot

Natural rockpool hidden just south of town. Proper local secret. Bring a towel and some snacks… You’ll want to stay a while.

Where To Eat

The Mossy Cafe

One of our fave meals of the trip. The pulled pork eggs benny? Next level. Friendly crew, big portions, and cool laid-back vibe. Expect a wait on weekends,  it’s that good.

Innes Boatshed

No-frills fish and chips that absolutely slaps. We sat out on the deck, watched the pelicans glide by and tucked into golden crispy goodness. Fresh as it gets.

Sams Pizza

Solid pizza joint right by the water. Super chill, fast service, and plenty of veggie options. Ideal dinner after a long drive and sunset swim.

Where To Sleep

Red Gum Campground

A proper Aussie bush camping experience. Fire pits, space to spread out, and stars for days. No phone signal, but that’s half the charm. Bring bug spray and you’re set.

BIG4 Batemans Bay

Reliable and comfy. Cabins, powered sites, and walking distance to shops and cafés. We liked having access to a pool and laundry,  the small wins on a roadie.

The Isla (Boutique Stay)

Bold interiors, poolside cabanas and super comfy beds. It’s vibey without trying too hard, and feels way more luxe than the price tag suggests. Perfect for a mid-trip reset.

Final stretch: from beachy bliss to capital city cool.

Canberra cops a bit of flak, but if you know where to go (and now you do), it’s actually a bit of a vibe. Museums, lake walks, gelato that slaps, and some very underrated food spots make this the perfect spot to wrap up your trip. After a week of waves and wilderness, it’s time to finish with a bang.

Distance: 150km
Drive time: 2.5 hrs

What To See

Parliament House

Don’t skip this, it’s actually way cooler than we expected. You can take a free tour or just roam the halls solo. The architecture is mad and the rooftop lawn has 10/10 views over the city.

Lake Burley Griffin

The chill heart of Canberra. Hire a bike or just walk the loop around the water. We caught golden hour on the jetty and it was proper peaceful.

Captain Cook Memorial Jet

A giant water jet that shoots up from the middle of the lake. Random, but kinda awesome. Makes for a cool photo stop and it’s right near loads of good picnic spots.

Where To Eat

RECESS (Brunch)

Classic brunch meets Japanese. Think karaage chicken on waffles and matcha pancakes with maple syrup. Retro vibes and inventive dishes. One of the most creative menus in Canberra.

Caffé Al Lago 

Lakefront spot with banging sambos and strong coffee. Sit outside and watch the paddle boarders float past. Quick, tasty and super casual.

The Jetty (Drinks & Chill)

Perfect for arvo drinks and chill time. We grabbed a local beer and some share plates and settled in for sunset. Great end-of-trip spot to debrief and soak it all in.

Spilt Milk Bar (Gelato)

Not your average gelato. Flavours change all the time but we lucked out with lemon cheesecake and Biscoff swirl. Generous scoops and funky little space.

Molto Italian

Fancy finish? Say no more. Molto is sleek, stylish and the food is unreal. The beef cheek melts in your mouth and the cocktails are on point. Book in advance, it’s popular for good reason.

Where To Sleep

Woods Reserve Campground

Bush camp just outside the city. Heaps of space, shaded sites and campfire vibes. Great if you want one last night under the stars before heading home or flying out.

Little Drifter Hostel

Modern hostel with rooftop cinema, co-working spaces and a social but chill energy. Spotless kitchen, comfy dorms and walking distance to everything. Great for solos or budget-conscious couples.

East Hotel (End-of-Trip Treat)

One for the “treat yo’self” moment at the end of your roadie. Big beds, fluffy robes and a dreamy bath. Easy access to the airport and perfect for unwinding in style.

Absolutely.

You’ll hit beaches, forests, tiny towns and the nation’s capital, all in one trip. If you’re chasing a real Aussie mix and love that campervan freedom, this is defo a route worth doing.

How long should I take for this trip?

5 to 7 days minimum. You could blast through it in a weekend… but don’t. You’ll miss the best bits. Slow travel = better travel.

Best time of year?

October to April. Warm days, less rain, perfect roadie season.

Do I need a 4WD?

Nah – 2WD camper is sweet for this one. Just avoid muddy tracks if it’s been raining.

Phone signal?

Mostly solid. Download offline maps for Wilsons Prom and remote bits.

Fuel stops?

Plenty. Just fuel up before entering Wilsons Prom.

Wildlife?

Loads! Wombats, wallabies, seals and maybe a cheeky kanga or two. Keep ya food sealed at night!

Apps to download:

• WikiCamps – Find campsites/toilets/etc
• CamperMate – Extra travel tips
• Fuel Map Australia – Best servo prices
• Google Maps Offline – Obvious one

From coastal chill zones to wild wombat sightings and wine stops that hit just right, this road trip is an absolute belter, and the best way to do it? In a camper, no question.

At RatPack, we’ve helped thousands of legends hit the road with the perfect setup, always cheaper than booking online and loaded with more insider tips than your mate Dave who “once did a road trip”.

Whether you’re after a cosy 2-seater, a stand-up high top or a decked-out motorhome, we’ll match you with the camper that suits your route, your crew, and your budget.

Just drop us your travel dates and we’ll take it from there – easy as.

Let’s get you on the road, RatPacker.