Ultimate Perth to Adelaide Self-Drive Road Trip
Day 1: Perth to Margaret River
Distance: 270 km
Travel time: ~3 hours
After you have secured your campervan hire from the Apollo Perth branch, it is time to start exploring! If you have an extra day, we highly recommend spending the day checking out the best things to do in Perth – or if you’re travelling with family; the best family-friendly things to do in Perth. If you do end up staying an extra night here, be sure to check out the best holiday parks in Perth! But if you’re short on time, maybe just choose one or two things to see before beginning the drive south!
Where to stop between Perth and Margaret River
The drive to Margaret River is scenic, winding along Western Australia’s stunning coastline. Some of the best stopovers include the laid-back town of Busselton, famous for the Busselton Jetty—the second-longest timber jetty in the world. You could also drop into Dunsborough to see spectacular coastal views from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse or duck into the Ngilgi Cave for a glimpse of its ancient limestone formations. If you’re looking for the answer to “Where should I stop between Perth and Adelaide?”—these coastal gems are definite contenders right from day one.
Where to stay in Margaret River
A great spot to spend the night is the Margaret River Tourist Park. It’s ideally located for exploring local caves, mountain biking trails, and the region’s celebrated surf spots.
Day 2: Exploring Margaret River
With so many things to do in the Margaret River region, it’s worth dedicating a full day to immerse yourself in its natural beauty and culinary delights. Sample local produce and famous wines, or simply relax in the countryside.
Best things to do in Margaret River
Where to stay in Margaret River
For something close to the river and with a relaxed vibe, set up at the Riverview Tourist Park for the night. Its garden setting and easy access to the Margaret River itself make it a top pick for anyone eager to continue their exploration of caves, trails, and beaches nearby.
Day 3: Margaret River to Denmark
Distance: 250 km
Travel time: ~3 hours
Today’s drive takes you through some of Western Australia’s most remarkable landscapes. You’ll travel via towering karri forests in the Southern Forests region and pass rugged coastline before arriving in Denmark. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for friendly roadside stalls offering local produce.
Where to stop between Margaret River and Denmark
If you’re searching for scenic forest walking trails, the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk is unmissable. This raised walkway winds through a canopy of ancient tingle trees, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the lush greenery below.
Best things to do in Denmark
Where to stay in Denmark
Set up your campervan at Denmark Rivermouth Caravan Park. Situated beside the picturesque Wilson Inlet and Denmark River, it’s an inviting space to spend the night before continuing your journey east.
Day 4: Denmark to Albany
Distance: 55 km
Travel time: ~1 hour
A quick trip along the coast brings you to Albany, a historic town boasting a beautiful natural harbour and rugged coastal attractions. Even though it’s just an hour away, it’s a good idea to leave time to explore the town on arrival.
Best things to do in Albany
Where to stay in Albany
The BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park is set in a relaxed, natural setting just 10 minutes from Albany’s centre. Park your motorhome or campervan and enjoy easy access to Albany’s beaches, heritage buildings, and local restaurants.
Day 5: Albany to Hopetoun
Distance: 340 km
Travel time: ~4 hours
Heading east from Albany, your drive on day five of this Perth to Adelaide road trip features dramatic coastal cliffs, empty beaches, and quiet national parks. This stretch hints at the remote, untamed landscapes you can expect further into your Perth to Adelaide road trip.
Where to stop between Albany and Hopetoun
Where to stay in Hopetoun
Enjoy a peaceful evening at Hopetoun Beachside Caravan Park. It’s right by the beach and a stone’s throw from the Fitzgerald River National Park, making it an ideal overnight spot before continuing your road trip across the Nullarbor and into South Australia.
Day 6: Hopetoun to Esperance
Distance: 190 km
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
Leaving Hopetoun behind, you’ll cruise along a scenic stretch of Western Australia’s south coast on your way to Esperance. This part of the Perth to Adelaide road trip map offers some of the most striking beaches in the country, so keep your camera ready. Be sure to visit Cape Le Grand National Park and its famous Lucky Bay, where kangaroos often lounge on the sand. It’s a family-friendly spot to swim in turquoise waters and snap unforgettable photos.
Best things to do in Esperance
Where to stay in Esperance
A welcoming option is the Esperance Seafront Caravan Park. It boasts shady sites, grassy areas for the kids to play, and stunning ocean views, all just a short drive from town. This will be your last major coastal stop before the next phase of your Perth to Adelaide road trip.
Day 7: Esperance to Norseman (start of the Nullarbor)
Distance: 205 km
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
Switching gears from coastal scenery to the outback, today it is time to leave Esperance (and the coast) and make your way to Norseman—the official gateway to the Nullarbor Road.
Where to stop between Esperance and Norseman
Before saying farewell to the ocean, take a drive along the Great Ocean Drive for one last look at Esperance’s sweeping beaches and cliffs. If you have time, check out the Pink Lake Lookout, though its colour can vary depending on weather conditions.
As you approach Norseman, stock up on fuel and supplies. This is where you’ll truly sense the transition into more remote terrain. The Nullarbor Plain covers a massive stretch of flat, semi-arid country across Southern Australia, and it’s one of the best overnight stops on the Nullarbor for travellers who love wide-open spaces.
Where to stay in Norseman
You’ll find a comfortable base at the Norseman Caravan Park. Known as the gateway to Western Australia when you’re coming from the east, it offers peaceful powered sites, essential facilities, and a chance to rest before tackling the Nullarbor.
Day 8: Norseman to Balladonia (Nullarbor)
Distance: 190 km
Travel time: ~2 hours
Today marks the official start of your legendary Nullarbor crossing. Setting off from Norseman, you’ll soon be surrounded by the vast, treeless plains that give this region its name—‘Nullarbor’ is Latin for “no trees.” This landscape has a raw beauty all its own, with low scrub and shimmering mirages stretching as far as the eye can see.
Where to stop between Norseman and Balladonia
Where to stay in Balladonia
Pull up for the night at Balladonia Roadhouse & Caravan Park. Offering outback hospitality and handy powered sites, it’s a popular choice for travellers looking to rest and refuel. Get a good night’s sleep before you tackle the next big leg of your Adelaide to Perth road trip.
Day 9: Balladonia to Cocklebiddy (Nullarbor)
Distance: 290 km
Travel time: ~3 hours
Set out early for another iconic stretch of Australia’s outback highways. Along this route, you’ll travel the “90-Mile Straight,” known as Australia’s longest straight road. This seemingly endless asphalt is bordered by low vegetation and gives you a real sense of just how vast this country is.
Where to stop between Balladonia and Cocklebiddy
Where to stay in Cocklebiddy
The Cocklebiddy Roadhouse is your next port of call. It’s a simple spot with basic conveniences, but part of the fun of the Nullarbor is embracing its isolation and distinctive roadhouse culture. Enjoy the desert sunsets and star-filled skies before continuing to the South Australian border.
Day 10: Cocklebiddy to Eucla (border to South Australia)
Distance: 320 km
Travel time: ~3.5 hours
The Nullarbor journey continues, taking you across vast limestone plains and past steep coastal cliffs that drop into the Great Australian Bight. Keep an eye out for spots where you can pull over for dramatic ocean views, especially if you’re travelling between May and October when southern right whales migrate through (just be aware of the cliffs!).
Where to stop between Cocklebiddy and Eucla
Best things to do in Eucla
As you near the South Australian border, you’ll reach Eucla, a small settlement perched near the edge of the Great Australian Bight. If you’ve been on the lookout for epic vantage points along your road trip from Adelaide to Perth, the towering sea cliffs in this area won’t disappoint. While in town, be sure to visit the Eucla Telegraph Station. Here you can climb over the shifting dunes to explore the ruins of this historic telegraph hub. It’s an eerie glimpse into the challenges early settlers faced in this remote outback.
Where to stay in Eucla
Stay at the Eucla Caravan Park, which provides powered and unpowered sites, modern amenities, and a small on-site shop for stocking up on supplies. It’s a convenient spot to spend a night before continuing east across South Australia.
Day 11: Eucla to Nullarbor Roadhouse
Distance: 200 km
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
From Eucla, continue east through the heart of the Nullarbor Plain, where wide horizons and occasional roadside stops make for a classic Aussie outback adventure.
Where to stop between Eucla and Nullarbor Roadhouse
The Nullarbor Road can feel isolated, but that’s part of its unique charm. Travelling by campervan or motorhome, you’ll experience the freedom of Australia’s great open spaces—an ideal part of any family road trip from Adelaide to Perth (or vice versa). No trip through this region would be complete without a stop to visit Bunda Cliffs. Pull over at designated lookouts to witness these incredible coastal formations. The views extend for miles, showcasing the raw beauty of the Great Australian Bight.
Where to stay in Nullarbor Roadhouse
Stay at the Nullarbor Roadhouse Caravan Park. It’s well-equipped for a spot this remote, with powered sites, basic amenities, and a cosy restaurant to refuel before continuing your journey across the Nullarbor Plain.
Day 12: Nullarbor Roadhouse to Ceduna (South Australia)
Distance: 300 km
Travel time: ~3.5 hours
Setting out from the Nullarbor Roadhouse, you’ll head towards Ceduna, the official gateway to South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. En route, making time for a little whale watching (season dependent) and finishing off in the South Australian town of Ceduna.
Where to stop between Nullarbor Roadhouse and Ceduna
Best things to do in Ceduna
Ceduna itself is a laid-back coastal town that offers a taste of local seafood, and it’s often where travellers breathe a sigh of relief, having completed the Nullarbor crossing. It’s also a great spot to restock supplies if you’re continuing your campervan hire journey deeper into South Australia.
Where to stay in Ceduna
A fantastic option is the BIG4 Ceduna Tourist Park. This central location is close to beaches and local eateries, making it an excellent base for exploring South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and continuing your travel itinerary eastwards.
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Day 13: Ceduna to Streaky Bay
Distance: 110 km
Travel time: ~1.5 hours
Day 13 of this Perth to Adelaide road trip takes you deeper into the Eyre Peninsula, known for its stunning coastal drives and thriving marine life. With the short drive, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy these unique sites—an excellent perk of planning a slower-paced Perth to Adelaide road trip.
Where to stop between Ceduna and Streaky Bay
One of the region’s standout natural attractions is Lake MacDonnell, famous for its vibrant pink hue on one side of the road and bright blue-green water on the other, creating a striking contrast. Farther along, make a stop at Point Labatt Sea Lion Colony to see Australian sea lions basking on the shore.
Where to stay in Streaky Bay
Settle in at Discovery Parks – Streaky Bay, a modern caravan park offering excellent facilities. Enjoy the relaxing vibe of Streaky Bay’s seaside setting, perfect for families and travellers looking to stretch their legs and refresh before hitting the road again.
Day 14: Streaky Bay to Port Augusta
Distance: 350 km
Travel time: ~4 hours
Today’s route continues along South Australia’s coastline, passing by hidden bays and small towns.
Where to stop between Streaky Bay and Port Augusta
Best things to do in Port Augusta
Finally, you’ll arrive in Port Augusta, often referred to as the “crossroads of Australia” due to its proximity to multiple major highways. It’s also a gateway to the Flinders Ranges, making it a logical stop on any Adelaide to Perth road trip (or vice versa).
Where to stay in Port Augusta
Make your base at the Port Augusta BIG4 Holiday Park. Shaded by trees and less than a 10-minute drive from Port Augusta, it offers a comfortable place to park up before the final leg of your Perth to Adelaide road trip.
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Day 15: Port Augusta to Adelaide
Distance: 310 km
Travel time: ~3.5 hours
On your last day, you’ll head south towards Adelaide, passing rolling hills and peaceful farmland along the way. If time permits, there are a few options for scenic detours that you wont want to miss!
Where to stop between Port Augusta and Adelaide
Continuing south, we highly recommend a detour through the Mount Remarkable National Park for a short walk in Alligator Gorge, famous for its red rock canyons. Another worthy stop is the Clare Valley, one of South Australia’s top wine regions, known for its Riesling and boutique cellar doors. Whether you only have an hour to meander along the Reisling Trail or a few more up your sleeve to enjoy a wine tasting, this is well worth the visit.
Best things to do in Adelaide
Arriving in Adelaide signals the end of this incredible road trip from Adelaide to Perth (or vice versa). The city itself offers plenty of vibrant markets, festivals, and lush parklands—no wonder many travellers like to spend a few extra days here before returning your campervan to the Adelaide branch.
Where to stay in Adelaide
If you’re looking for one final night’s stay, BIG4 West Beach Parks offers easy beach access and modern amenities close to the city. Alternatively, you may choose to return your camper to the Adelaide Apollo branch after concluding your trip.
Pro Tip: If you have a few extra days up your sleeve, why not check out our tips on family-friendly things to do in Adelaide or the city’s top attractions in things to do in Adelaide for even more inspiration?
Ready to experience Margaret River’s vineyards, Esperance’s coastal gems, and the vast Nullarbor Plain? You can book your Apollo camper online and pick it up at any Apollo branch to kick off this epic Perth to Adelaide road trip. What are you waiting for?