Australia's Best Drive-On Beaches

Australia’s coastline is packed with awesome beaches where you can cruise right onto the sand – talk about a beach day done right! Load up your car and get ready for stunning coastal views and the freedom of driving on the beach itself. Most beaches are good for regular cars, but some might need a 4×4 to handle the softer sand or terrain. Remember, the usual road rules still apply, and you might need a permit, so check the local rules before you hit the sand. Let’s keep these beaches beautiful and safe for everyone!

Silver Sands, South Australia

Just a quick 50-minute drive from the Adelaide CBD, Silver Sands is a beach driver’s dream come true! This gem lives up to its name with pristine white sand that seems to stretch forever. Park up your vehicle and dive into those crystal-clear waters – perfect for a refreshing swim or getting up close with the local marine life while snorkeling. On calm days, the gentle waves make it ideal for families, and the shallow entry means kids can splash around safely while the grown-ups keep watch from their beach chairs.

The best part? There’s so much space to spread out that you can easily find your own private slice of paradise. Just drive along until you find the perfect spot, set up your beach shelter, and soak in those gorgeous coastal views! Whether you’re planning a peaceful solo escape or a lively family beach day, Silver Sands delivers. Pack your fishing gear if you’re keen – the beach is known for some great catches. And don’t forget to stick around for sunset – when the sky puts on a spectacular show and the white sand takes on a golden glow.

Remember to check the tide times before you head out – low tide offers the firmest sand for driving, making it perfect for regular vehicles as well as 4WDs. 

75 Mile Beach on K’gari (Fraser Island), Queensland

Looking for the ultimate beach driving adventure? Then look no further than K’gari’s 75 Mile Beach! This natural sand highway stretches along the island’s east coast and has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most epic 4×4 tracks – it’s so impressive that planes even use it as a landing strip! 

You’ll feel like you’re driving through paradise with the sparkling ocean on one side and K’gari’s stunning wilderness on the other. Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing wildlife – you might spot dingos roaming the beach (remember to admire these wild beauties from a safe distance!) or catch sight of majestic humpback whales breaching the waves during winter months.

While the ocean views are incredible, the strong currents and local shark population mean ocean swimming is not recommended. But, with plenty of amazing alternatives, K’gari has got you covered. Try your luck at some top-notch fishing spots, take a dip in the famous Champagne Pools, or cool off in one of the island’s crystal-clear freshwater swimming spots.

Before you hit this amazing sand highway, there are a few must-knows: you’ll need to grab the right permits, and a 4×4 isn’t just recommended – it’s essential for tackling those rugged sandy tracks. Keep an eye on the tides, stick to the speed limits (35-80km/h depending on where you are), and remember that regular Queensland road rules apply. Trust us, a little preparation makes for an unforgettable K’gari adventure!

Stockton Beach, New South Wales

Stockton Beach is a 4×4 enthusiast’s playground, with an incredible 19km of beachfront to explore and a massive 350-hectare dune system that’ll make you feel like you’re on another planet. Welcome to one of NSW’s biggest coastal driving areas – and it’s absolutely worth the trip!

This isn’t just any beach drive – Stockton’s got some great surprises up its sleeve. Cruise past mysterious shipwrecks, discover fascinating WWII fortifications, and check out the unique Tin City alongside the endless coastal views.

When you’re not behind the wheel, grab a sandboard and surf the dunes, catch some waves in the ocean, or strap on a snorkel to explore the underwater world. Not confident about tackling the terrain yourself? No worries – jump on a 4WD tour and let the experts show you all the hidden gems. Just remember, you’ll need a proper 4×4 to access this paradise.

Tim’s Thicket, Western Australia

Tim’s Thicket is calling! Just a quick 15km cruise south of Mandurah, this hidden gem is one of WA’s many amazing drive-on beaches – and it’s an absolute beauty! Wind your way through the dunes, and you’ll discover a hidden paradise.

If you time it right with the perfect swell, you can catch some awesome waves at Tim’s Thicket. But that’s not all, this spot is also known for serving up some fantastic catches so be sure to pack your fishing rod! Whether you’re casting a line or just soaking in those jaw-dropping coastal views, you’re in for a treat.

Here’s the important bit: while this beach is perfect for a 4WD adventure, keep those wheels on the beach itself – the dunes are strictly off-limits for driving. 

Ocean Beach, Tasmania

Buckle up for Ocean Beach – a whopping 40 kilometres of untamed coastline that’ll take your breath away! Just a quick 6km hop from Strahan (though the unsealed road keeps things interesting), you’ll find yourself on Tasmania’s longest beach, where the raw beauty of the West Coast stretches as far as the eye can see.

While the mighty waves make swimming a no-go, don’t let that stop you from experiencing this incredible spot! Park up your vehicle and watch nature’s power show as those massive waves crash against the shore. And speaking of shows – just wait until sunset! The sky lights up in a spectacular display of colours that’ll make you glad you brought your camera. 

Here’s where things get really interesting – this isn’t just any beach. Ocean Beach is backed by an amazing network of coastal sand dunes that create a mind-bending contrast. These massive dunes stretch for kilometers inland, creating a unique landscape that feels like something from another world. It’s the perfect spot to embrace Tasmania’s wild side and experience one of Australia’s most unique coastal drives!

Get two nights for two plus freebies from just $195*

Planning some time away? Whether a drive-on beach day is part of your plans, or if you’d prefer to simply kick back and relax next to a swimming pool, we’ve got some amazing packages that will put you in comfortable accommodation that won’t break the bank. 

Get two nights in a spacious room for two plus freebies including a free gift on arrival, a $50 travel voucher, and more from just $195! Make sure to check out our Discount Packages to find the perfect hotel!