A road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is more than just a drive — it’s a ripper way to experience the breathtaking beauty of regional Australia.

Stretching across two states, the journey takes you past beaches, forests, small towns, and open farmland that make for perfect pit stops.

It’s not about rushing to the end — the real magic’s in the journey. Pulling over at the right places can turn a long drive into a proper adventure.

From coastal views to country bakeries and quiet spots off the highway, there are some great stopovers that will help break up the trip without adding stress.

If you’re keen to take the scenic route and make the most of it, here are the ten best stopovers between Melbourne and Adelaide that are worth visiting. So, let’s explore them.

Best Stopovers Between Melbourne and Adelaide

1- Geelong

Just 20 minutes from Melbourne, Geelong makes an ideal first stop on your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide.

This city balances laid-back coastal living with urban energy. The lively waterfront area is great for a walk or grabbing coffee while watching the boats go by.

Families can enjoy the restored Eastern Beach swimming area, complete with an old-school Art Deco feel.

If you’re travelling with kids, the waterfront also features a giant Ferris wheel and amazing sculptures.

For a peaceful escape, head to the Geelong Botanic Gardens and relax among colorful plants and shaded paths.

If you are an art lover, you should definitely visit the Geelong Gallery, which features local and international artworks.

Geelong offers just the right mix of things to see and do without straying far from your route. It’s a great way to ease into your journey before hitting more coastal landscapes.

2- The Bellarine Peninsula

After leaving Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula is your next stop and a great one for slowing down the pace.

Known for its relaxed vibe and ocean views, Bellarine Peninsula is perfect for beach lovers, foodies, and families.

Ocean Grove has wide sandy shores and good surf, while Barwon Heads offers riverfront walks and great cafés.

The area also has some of the best wineries in Australia along with seafood restaurants and local markets.

You can also take in coastal views from walking trails or simply enjoy a fish and chips picnic by the sea.

Whether you’re into wine tasting, paddleboarding, or casual shopping, the Bellarine Peninsula keeps things easy and fun.

The Bellarine Peninsula not only offers you breathtaking natural views but also fits naturally into any Melbourne to Adelaide road trip without taking you too far off track.

3- Queenscliff

Located at the far end of the Bellarine Peninsula, Queenscliff is a historic town that’s worth a visit.

It’s about an hour and a half from Melbourne and offers a quiet break with strong links to Australia’s past.

The streets here feature old Victorian-style buildings that have been carefully preserved, giving the town a timeless feel.

If you are interested in history then do check out Fort Queenscliff and take the guided tour to know about Australia’s coastal defence stories.

There’s also the Queenscliff Maritime Museum, which covers shipwrecks, diving history, and the town’s connection to the sea.

If you’re up for more adventure, hop on the Queenscliff-Sorrento Ferry to continue exploring the coast.

Whether you stay for a few hours or overnight, Queenscliff is a town worth exploring and you will be amazed by its calmness.

4- The Great Ocean Road

One of the most iconic drives in Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a highlight of any trip from Melbourne to Adelaide.

Starting about 90 minutes from Melbourne, this winding route hugs the coastline and reveals some of the country’s best views.

Along the way, you’ll pass towering cliffs, deep gorges, and famous rock formations like the Twelve Apostles.

Other key stops include Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, and Gibson Steps. You’ll also find several lookout points, surf beaches, and small towns where you can pause for lunch or take photos.

You might even spot koalas in the wild near Kennett River.

The drive is not just scenic—it’s packed with natural beauty and things to explore at every turn.

Whether you’re in a campervan or car, the Great Ocean Road will be an unforgettable part of your Melbourne to Adelaide journey.

5- Port Campbell

Roughly three and a half hours from Melbourne, Port Campbell is a quiet coastal village that feels like a reward after the twists and turns of the Great Ocean Road.

It’s the closest town to the Twelve Apostles, so it’s a great place to stop for the night and see the rock formations at sunset or sunrise.

The town is small, but it has all the basics: friendly cafés, seafood spots, and calm beaches.

You can take a walk on the Port Campbell Discovery Trail to see stunning views of cliffs and coastal rock stacks.

It’s an easy stroll that helps you take in the natural beauty of the area.

If you’re into photography, this is one of the best spots to capture the breathtaking coastline views.

Port Campbell may be small, but it’s one of the best stopovers between Melbourne and Adelaide, full of simple pleasures and epic scenery.

6- Warrnambool

Located just under four hours from Melbourne, Warrnambool is a scenic coastal town offering rich history and natural attractions.

A visit to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village will take you back to the 1800s with displays of shipwreck stories, a lighthouse, and historical buildings.

Between May and October, Logan’s Beach becomes one of the best spots in Australia to see Southern Right Whales up close.

Warrnambool also offers a cultural stop at the local art gallery, where both classic and modern pieces are displayed.

With its combination of maritime heritage, art, and wildlife, Warrnambool adds depth and variety to the Melbourne to Adelaide road trip.

After taking in the sights here, the drive to your next destination offers more reasons to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Also Read: Best Coffee Shops in Warrnambool

7- Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

Only a short 15-minute drive from Warrnambool, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a must-visit for anyone traveling from Melbourne to Adelaide by road.

Located inside the crater of an ancient volcano, this reserve is full of walking trails that take you through woodlands, wetlands, and open plains.

It’s a great place to spot kangaroos, emus, and koalas in their natural environment, especially for families and photographers.

The visitor centre, run by members of the local Indigenous community, offers guided walks that explain the cultural and environmental importance of the area.

Tower Hill is more than a scenic stop—it’s an opportunity to learn and connect with Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

8- Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier is about five hours from Melbourne and well worth a stop for its mesmerizing natural beauty.

The main attraction is the Blue Lake, known for its dramatic color change each summer.

Another must-visit place is the Umpherston Sinkhole, transformed into a peaceful garden filled with hanging vines and well-kept lawns.

You should also explore the Cave Gardens in the town centre or go underground at Engelbrecht Cave, which reveals Mount Gambier’s limestone foundation and underground waterways.

These attractions make the city a fascinating place of geology and greenery, perfect for breaking up your journey while learning something new along the way.

9- Robe

About six hours into your road trip from Melbourne, Robe is a charming coastal town that is famous for its history and laid-back beach culture.

Once a bustling port in the 1800s, Robe now attracts visitors with its peaceful streets, heritage buildings, and seafood restaurants.

Long Beach is one of its top attractions—where you can drive right onto the sand for a beach picnic or swim.

It’s a great place to relax, explore the coastline, or enjoy a fresh lobster meal.

With a quiet charm and a rich maritime past, Robe is a refreshing place to stop before continuing toward Adelaide.

10- Keith

Keith is a quiet town around six hours from Melbourne and a couple of hours from Adelaide, making it a convenient place to pause near the end of your journey.

Known for its strong farming community, Keith offers a peaceful rural setting with a few unique attractions.

Walk the Heritage Trail to see historical landmarks or visit the Heart of the Parks to learn about local wildlife and conservation work.

Keith also gives road travelers a small-town experience with local bakeries, art displays, and friendly conversation.

It’s a great stopover between Melbourne and Adelaide to refuel—both your car and your energy—before completing your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide?

The midpoint between Melbourne and Adelaide falls in the Limestone Coast region, an area renowned for its stunning coastline, world-class wineries, and unique geological features including fascinating sinkholes that visitors can explore.

How long is the drive from Melbourne to Adelaide?

The direct drive between Melbourne and Adelaide takes approximately 8-9 hours, covering roughly 730 kilometers of scenic Australian countryside and coastal routes.

Is it a nice drive from Melbourne to Adelaide?

Yes, the driving route from Melbourne to Adelaide offers an excellent road trip experience, taking you along the Southern Ocean Drive through spectacular natural attractions around Mount Gambier and the Limestone Coast.