Yass Tribune

Everything you need to know to plan the ultimate Easter road trip getaway

Plus, how to take an extra-long break in 2025.

Travel

Whether you are looking for a beachside glamping holiday under the stars or a hiking trip in the alps, there's an Easter road trip destination to suit everyone.

Sarah Falson
March 21, 2025

Road tripping over Easter has become such a tradition in Australia, due to its affordability for groups and families who want to get away for a few days.

Driving through the rolling hill at Noosa Hinterland with Mount Cooroora, Pomona in the background. Picture by Tourism and Events Queensland
Driving through the rolling hill at Noosa Hinterland with Mount Cooroora, Pomona in the background. Picture by Tourism and Events Queensland

"Easter is also viewed as the last long weekend before winter sets in, often still bringing warm, sunny days and mild evenings that campers count on," Reflections Holidays CEO Nick Baker said.

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Plus, there are only three working days to take off between this year's Easter long weekend and the ANZAC Day long weekend, giving you the ultimate excuse to extend your road trip.

If you need some inspiration about where to go, here are some of Mr Baker's top road trip destinations for Easter 2025.

Urunga, NSW

If you're looking for a relaxing coastal escape, Urunga on the Mid North Coast is a gem. You can stay in a caravan and holiday park right by the Bellinger River, with easy access to the beach and surrounding nature reserves, meaning there are plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, fishing and kayaking.

Mansfield, VIC

Mansfield is the perfect Easter detour for those looking to escape the crowds and soak up some peaceful country charm. Hidden at the foot of the Victorian Alps, it's a gateway to nature, with easy access to Lake Eildon, Mount Buller, and some beautiful hiking trails.

Swiftcrest Distillery at Mansfield, Victoria. Picture by Visit Victoria
Swiftcrest Distillery at Mansfield, Victoria. Picture by Visit Victoria

Pomona, QLD

Noosa on the Sunshine Coast is always a hit, especially over Easter. However, if you're headed to Noosa and want a quiet detour, check out Pomona. Just a short drive south, this charming town offers a peaceful break before the bustling Noosa. You can hike Mount Cooroora for views of the hinterland, or explore the local cafes and shops.

Murrumbateman, NSW

Murrumbateman, just off the Hume Highway in the Canberra wine district, is a peaceful little town known for its top-notch wineries. If you love wine, you're in for a treat with tastings and a chance to try some amazing local produce. The views of the hills and vineyards are stunning, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Clonakilla winery, Murrumbateman. Picture by Destination NSW
Clonakilla winery, Murrumbateman. Picture by Destination NSW

Port Lincoln, SA

Eyre Peninsula is an absolute gem for nature lovers. Port Lincoln, often called the seafood capital of Australia, is a must-visit, with its beautiful coastal campsites at Fishery Bay and Sleaford Bay. If you head a little further along, you'll find Coffin Bay National Park, which offers peaceful, remote camping right by the beach.

Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. Picture by Tourism Australia/South Australia Tourism Commission
Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. Picture by Tourism Australia/South Australia Tourism Commission

Moonee Beach, NSW

Up north near Coffs Harbour, Moonee Beach offers a quiet, natural vibe with camping spots surrounded by surrounding bushland. Whether you want to sleep under the stars in a tent or enjoy the extra comforts of a glamping tent, it's the perfect place to take a break from everyday stresses.

When to book

If you're looking at booking a car or accommodation for your road trip, don't delay. East Coast Car Rentals CMO, Ben Whitmore, said planning ahead gives you more choice for a better price.

"Accommodation and transport options book out quickly, so securing flights, rental cars, and hotels well in advance ensures you get the best prices and availability," he said.

"If you're planning a road trip, servicing your car and mapping out your route ahead of time can help avoid last-minute hiccups."

In Mr Whitmore's experience, popular Easter road trip destinations are Torquay and Bells Beach in Victoria, as well as Cairns.

Picture by Diego Jimenez/Unsplash
Picture by Diego Jimenez/Unsplash

"The uptake of road trips in general, is a trend. I think overseas travel is becoming a little bit more prohibitive now cost-wise," he said.

"And also people are a little bit worried about the global landscape and what could be happening overseas as well, so we're seeing a lot more people explore their own backyard."

His advice if you're booking a car? Look at the terms and conditions closely, because these can vary widely from vendor to vendor.

This includes checking your liabilities. In the event you have to cancel or there's a natural disaster stopping you from holidaying as planned, you should know what you're signing up for.

Sarah Falson
Words bySarah Falson
Sarah is ACM’s travel producer. She believes regional travel is just as fun (if not better) than staying in the big cities and loves any travel experience to do with nature, animals and food!.

My all-time favourite destination is ... Cornwall. From the giant seagulls to the blustery beaches, Cornish pasties and fishing villages, it stirs something romantic and seafaring in me.

Next on my bucket list is … Mongolia. I want to go somewhere really unique that feels totally foreign and challenges my way of life.

My top travel tip is … Don’t plan too much. Walk the streets and let it happen. And make sure you check out what’s within a few blocks of your hotel - sometimes the best local food is found that way.