Melbourne is the perfect city for romantic road trips, offering breathtaking coastal scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of hidden gems for couples to explore. Whether you’re looking for relaxing beachfront drives, wine country escapes, or adventurous cliffside routes, there’s a perfect scenic road trip for every couple.
Here are the best coastal drives and romantic road trips near Melbourne for couples looking to create unforgettable memories.
1. The Great Ocean Road – Australia’s Most Romantic Drive
One of the most iconic coastal drives in the world, the Great Ocean Road is a dream road trip for couples. Winding along Victoria’s dramatic coastline, this route offers stunning ocean views, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
🚗 Romantic Stops Along the Way:
✔ Torquay & Bells Beach – Perfect for a romantic seaside breakfast or a relaxing walk.
✔ Lorne & Erskine Falls – Visit charming coastal cafés, or take a short rainforest walk to the waterfall.
✔ Twelve Apostles – Watch a sunset over these famous limestone formations for a truly romantic moment.
💡 Pro Tip: Stay overnight in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell for a relaxed, multi-day experience.
⏳ Drive Time from Melbourne: ~4 hours to the Twelve Apostles (with stops along the way).
2. Mornington Peninsula – Coastal Views & Hot Springs Escape
For couples looking for a shorter but equally scenic drive, the Mornington Peninsula is a perfect choice. Known for its beachside wineries, stunning coastal walks, and the relaxing Peninsula Hot Springs, this trip is ideal for a romantic day trip or weekend getaway.
🚗 Romantic Stops Along the Way:
✔ Brighton Beach Boxes – Snap a cute couple’s photo in front of these colorful, historic bathing boxes.
✔ Arthur’s Seat Lookout – Enjoy panoramic coastal views and take a gondola ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle.
✔ Peninsula Hot Springs – Soak in natural geothermal pools for a rejuvenating and romantic experience.
✔ Flinders Beach & Winery Tour – Visit beachfront vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting with a view.
💡 Pro Tip: Book a private bath at the hot springs for an intimate experience.
⏳ Drive Time from Melbourne: ~1–1.5 hours.
3. Phillip Island – Wildlife & Sunset by the Coast
For couples who love nature and adventure, Phillip Island offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and coastal charm.
🚗 Romantic Stops Along the Way:
✔ San Remo Bridge – Stop for fresh seafood and watch the daily pelican feeding.
✔ Cape Woolamai Coastal Walk – Take a romantic walk along the cliffs and admire the pink granite rock formations.
✔ Phillip Island Penguin Parade – Watch adorable little penguins waddle back to shore at sunset.
✔ The Nobbies Boardwalk – A scenic spot with dramatic ocean views and seal-watching opportunities.
💡 Pro Tip: Book a VIP Penguin Parade experience for the best up-close view of the penguins.
⏳ Drive Time from Melbourne: ~2 hours.
4. Wilsons Promontory – A Hidden Coastal Paradise
If you and your partner are looking for secluded beaches and untouched natural beauty, Wilsons Promontory (The Prom) is the ideal coastal road trip. With white sandy beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters, this is a peaceful and romantic getaway for nature-loving couples.
🚗 Romantic Stops Along the Way:
✔ Squeaky Beach – Famous for its soft, white sand that “squeaks” underfoot.
✔ Whale Rock & Lilly Pilly Gully Walk – A relaxing nature walk through ancient rainforests.
✔ Mount Oberon Summit – Hike to the top for panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for a romantic moment.
✔ Tidal River – A peaceful spot for a picnic by the water.
💡 Pro Tip: Stay overnight at a private cabin or campsite for a romantic under-the-stars experience.
⏳ Drive Time from Melbourne: ~3 hours.
5. Bellarine Peninsula – Wine, Beaches, and Coastal Charm
A lesser-known alternative to the Mornington Peninsula, the Bellarine Peninsula offers couples a mix of beachfront charm, coastal wineries, and gourmet dining experiences.
🚗 Romantic Stops Along the Way:
✔ Geelong Waterfront – Take a romantic stroll along the bay and stop for a coffee.
✔ Queenscliff & Sorrento Ferry – Take a scenic ferry ride across the bay for a fun couple’s activity.
✔ Bellarine Wineries – Enjoy wine tasting and lunch at a seaside vineyard like Jack Rabbit Winery.
✔ Point Lonsdale Lighthouse – A romantic spot to watch the waves crash against the cliffs.
💡 Pro Tip: Take a seaside cycling tour for a romantic and active experience.
⏳ Drive Time from Melbourne: ~1.5 hours.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne is the perfect starting point for romantic coastal road trips, offering everything from scenic drives to secluded beaches and luxurious hot springs. Whether you’re watching the sunset at the Twelve Apostles, soaking in the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs, or strolling along a quiet beach on Wilsons Prom, these scenic drives create unforgettable memories for couples.
🚗 Planning your romantic road trip? Make the journey stress-free by renting a comfortable and stylish car with Melbourne Airport car rental. Enjoy the freedom to explore these breathtaking destinations at your own pace!
