Chasing the Sun: Warm Winter Road Trips in Northern Australia 

Feature—Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve Credit: Tourism NT

What better time to explore Australia’s northern treasures than during winter—when the temperatures are cooling, the ocean remains warm, and campfires can be lit under the stars. Days are sunny and comfortable, without the humidity or heat of summer. Evenings are mild—perfect for toasting marshmallows—and the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular. 

If you’ve been contemplating a trip, this is your sign to head north and discover the stunning, diverse landscapes of northern WA, Far North Queensland, and the NT’s Top End. To inspire you, we’ve rounded up three unforgettable winter road trips—featuring waterfalls, wetlands, whales, and pristine coastline. 

Far North Queensland – The Cassowary Coast Loop 

The Cassowary Coast stretches from Cardwell to Innisfail, where lush hinterlands meet the Great Barrier Reef. This road trip is a fantastic way to explore the FNQ coast during its vibrant ‘green season,’ with picturesque stops like Mission Beach, Ettabay, Tully, and Cardwell. 

Start your Cassowary Coast adventure from either Cardwell or Innisfail, depending on your direction—Cardwell is roughly two hours from Townsville, while Innisfail is just over an hour from Cairns. If you’re beginning in Cardwell, kick things off with a visit to Hinchinbrook National Park—Australia’s largest island national park. Look out for turtles, dolphins, dugongs, and perhaps even a croc or two! 

As you head north through Tully and Mission Beach, take time to explore the scenic hinterlands—dotted with waterfalls, national parks, and walking trails. Tully is one of Australia’s greenest towns, while Mission Beach is a laid-back coastal hub with access to the reef, swimming, and snorkelling. 

Continue through Ettabay toward Innisfail, sampling exotic tropical fruits and some of the region’s best seafood along the way. End your loop in Innisfail, where hidden gems like Babinda Boulders and the beloved Babinda Bakery are well worth a stop. 

Find places to stay along the Cassowary Coast.

Northern Territory – Top End Wetlands Loop 

For Top End tourers, the Mary River wetlands region offers the ultimate dry-season road trip. This loop includes Mary River National Park, Adelaide River, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, and Djukbinj National Park—regions alive with wildlife, birdlife, and wide-open skies. The Dry Season is ideal for exploring, with many areas accessible even by 2WD. 

Book a fishing charter, join a wildlife cruise, or bring your own boat to explore standout locations like Shady Camp, Corroboree Billabong, and the Mary River. You can also take to the skies with heli-tours or explore floodplains on an airboat—learning more about the native flora and fauna along the way. 

Don’t miss the famous Jumping Croc tours on the Adelaide River or the incredible birdwatching at Fogg Dam, just an hour from Darwin. 

This loop begins and ends in Darwin, with stops at Fogg Dam, Adelaide River, and Mary River (Corroboree Billabong). For an extended trip, consider a detour into Kakadu National Park to cruise Yellow Water Billabong. 

Find places to stay along the Mary River wetlands.

Northern Western Australia – North-West Coast & Pilbara 

WA’s north-west coast offers an epic blend of red earth, blue ocean, and ancient landscapes. Winter brings welcome relief from the region’s intense summer heat, with daytime temperatures dropping to a pleasant 20–30°C—ideal for outdoor adventure. 

This road trip takes in iconic destinations such as Broome, where you can watch camels at sunset on Cable Beach; Port Hedland, the gateway between the Kimberley and the Pilbara; Tom Price, WA’s highest town above sea level; and Karijini National Park, with its dramatic gorges and crystal-clear waterholes. 

The Pilbara region is rich in natural and cultural history. Discover ancient landforms that date back millions of years, connect with Dreamtime stories along the Warlu Way, and explore the diverse marine life at Eighty Mile Beach. Visit Australia’s hottest town, Marble Bar, and dive into its WWII and gold-mining past—or explore Port Hedland’s proud resource industry and pioneering heritage. 

Find places to stay in the northwest.

Ready to Chase the Sun? 

With these three unforgettable road trips across Northern Australia as inspiration, there’s no better time to embrace the open road. Make this winter a season of adventure, discovery, and warm, sun-drenched days. Your next great escape is waiting. 

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