Top Scenic Drives in Australia for EVs – Charging Stops Included

Australia is a land of epic landscapes and unforgettable road trips. From coastal cliffs to the vast red centre, driving through this diverse terrain is a rite of passage. But for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, the question arises—can you take your EV on a scenic Australian road trip without worrying about range or charging?

The answer is yes—and this guide is here to show you how.

We’ve mapped out some of the most breathtaking EV-friendly drives across Australia, complete with charging station tips and driving highlights, so you can enjoy the open road with confidence.

Why EVs Are Perfect for Scenic Road Trips

Before jumping into routes, let’s quickly look at why electric vehicles are particularly well-suited for scenic drives:

• Quiet and Smooth Driving: EVs are nearly silent and incredibly smooth, making the driving experience more peaceful—ideal for absorbing Australia’s raw beauty.

• Regenerative Braking: Perfect for winding mountain roads, regen braking improves range and reduces wear on brake pads.

• Lower Running Costs: EV charging is significantly cheaper than petrol, making long trips more economical.

What to Consider When Planning an EV Road Trip

• Know Your Range: Plan routes that match your EV’s range capabilities. Many modern EVs can do 400–600 km on a full charge.

• Charging Infrastructure: Make sure charging stations are available at reasonable intervals—every 150–250 km is ideal.

• Apps to Use: PlugShare, Chargefox, and Evie Networks provide live charging station maps and availability.

• Accommodation with Charging: Many eco-friendly lodges and hotels now offer EV charging facilities.

Scenic EV Drives in Australia – Complete with Charging Stops

1. Great Ocean Road (VIC)

• Distance: Approx. 240 km

• Route: Torquay to Allansford

• Charging Stops:

  • Geelong (Tritium DC fast charger)

  • Lorne (AC charging at motels)

  • Apollo Bay (Evie Networks)

  • Port Campbell Visitor Centre (AC chargers)

Highlights:
Famed for its 12 Apostles, coastal cliffs, surfing towns, and rainforests, this is one of the most scenic routes in the world. With multiple charging stops along the way, it’s EV-ready.

2. Sydney to Byron Bay (NSW)

• Distance: Approx. 800 km

• Route: Sydney – Newcastle – Port Macquarie – Coffs Harbour – Byron Bay

• Charging Stops:

  • Hornsby (Tesla Supercharger and NRMA fast chargers)

  • Taree (Chargefox)

  • Coffs Harbour (multiple networks)

  • Ballina (Evie Networks)

Highlights:
Coastal towns, lush hinterland, and Australia’s best surf beaches. Combine seaside serenity with bustling cafes and stunning lookouts.

3. Brisbane to Cairns via Coastal Route (QLD)

• Distance: Approx. 1,700 km

• Route: Brisbane – Rockhampton – Mackay – Townsville – Cairns

• Charging Stops:

  • Sunshine Coast (NRMA)

  • Bundaberg (Evie Networks)

  • Rockhampton (Tesla & public DC chargers)

  • Airlie Beach (AC chargers at hotels)

  • Townsville (multiple charging points)

Highlights:
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and tropical beaches. A long-haul but doable trip for EVs with strategic charging stops.

4. Tasmania’s East Coast Drive

• Distance: Approx. 350 km

• Route: Hobart – Swansea – Bicheno – St Helens – Launceston

• Charging Stops:

  • Hobart (several fast chargers)

  • Bicheno (AC charging)

  • St Helens (DC fast charger)

  • Launceston (Tesla and NRMA options)

Highlights:
White sand beaches, seafood shacks, Wineglass Bay, and national parks. Tasmania is one of the most EV-ready regions in Australia.

5. Adelaide to Flinders Ranges (SA)

• Distance: Approx. 500 km

• Route: Adelaide – Clare Valley – Quorn – Wilpena Pound

• Charging Stops:

  • Gawler (fast charger)

  • Clare (AC charger)

  • Port Augusta (DC charger)

  • Wilpena Pound Resort (solar-powered charging)

Highlights:
From vineyards to red rock gorges, experience the outback without venturing too far off-grid. Charging stations are spaced well for mid-range EVs.

6. Canberra to Snowy Mountains

• Distance: Approx. 400 km

• Route: Canberra – Cooma – Jindabyne – Thredbo

• Charging Stops:

  • Canberra (numerous fast chargers)

  • Cooma (Chargefox)

  • Jindabyne (Tesla Destination Charger)

Highlights:
Ideal for snow season and hiking in summer, this alpine route is stunning year-round. Regenerative braking is particularly useful on mountain descents.

7. Perth to Margaret River (WA)

• Distance: Approx. 280 km

• Route: Perth – Bunbury – Busselton – Margaret River

• Charging Stops:

  • Rockingham (Evie Networks)

  • Bunbury (DC fast charger)

  • Margaret River (AC chargers at wineries and resorts)

Highlights:
Wineries, surf breaks, and Karri forests. EV infrastructure is growing quickly in WA’s southwest tourism corridor.

8. Darwin to Litchfield National Park (NT)

• Distance: Approx. 130 km (one way)

• Route: Darwin – Batchelor – Litchfield NP

• Charging Stops:

  • Darwin (DC charging hub)

  • Batchelor (community chargers and solar facilities)

Highlights:
Waterfalls, swimming holes, termite mounds, and tropical forests. NT’s EV support is growing, particularly near national parks.

Upcoming EV Road Trip Infrastructure Projects (2025 Onward)

Australia is investing heavily in EV charging networks, particularly along major highways:

• NRMA’s National Highway Network: Expanding across NSW and into QLD and VIC with over 100 new fast-charging locations.

• Chargefox Ultra-Rapid Expansion: Already covers Adelaide–Melbourne–Sydney–Brisbane corridors.

• Evie Networks: Connecting regional Australia with 350kW chargers on key long-distance roads.

Tips for a Hassle-Free EV Road Trip

• Use Multi-Network Apps: Not all stations use the same network—combine apps like PlugShare, Chargefox, and Evie.

• Always Carry a Type 2 Charging Cable: Some remote spots only offer Type 2 AC plugs.

• Have a Backup Plan: Mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas. Download offline maps and charging locations in advance.

• Plan Meals Around Charging: Use charging time for meals or short walks—many stations are now located near cafes or attractions.

Best EVs for Long Scenic Drives in 2025

• Tesla Model Y Long Range: Over 500 km range, best charging network.

• Hyundai Ioniq 6: 614 km WLTP range, ultra-fast charging.

• Polestar 2 Long Range: Stylish and road-trip ready.

• Kia EV9: Great for family road trips with excellent range and comfort.

• BYD Seal and Atto 3: Budget-friendly EVs with decent road trip range.

Charging Station Map Overview – Major Routes

Final Thoughts

EVs are no longer confined to the city. With a little planning and growing infrastructure, Australia’s most iconic scenic drives are within reach for electric drivers. Whether it’s the wild coastline of the Great Ocean Road or the remote red rock ranges of South Australia, the freedom of the open road is now cleaner, quieter, and more exciting than ever.

So charge up, plan your stops, and take your EV on a journey you’ll never forget.