Adventure with KINTO car rental through Western Australia

With so many different environments spread across this magnificent state, Western Australia rewards travellers who take the scenic route. A road trip gives you the flexibility to explore beyond major cities and discover regional gems, enjoying the journey as much as the destination.

If you’re planning to travel to Western Australia by car, this guide can help you choose where to go, when to visit and how long to spend on the road.

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Why Western Australia is best explored by car

As Australia’s largest state, covering one-third of our total landmass, Western Australia has more than 20,000 kilometres of mainland and island coastline with stunning beaches, a diverse climate, and a rich Indigenous history dating back more than 50,000 years. This alone makes it a fantastic place for a road trip, with Perth as a great starting point. But to get the full experience, leaving the city is a must, and travelling by car offers far greater flexibility.

Picture walking through Kings Park and the WA Botanic Garden one day, and visiting the Margaret River Region the next. With your own car, it’s easy to adjust your plans and linger in the places you enjoy most, discovering destinations that aren’t always included in organised tours.

If you’re looking for day trips from Perth by car, popular choices include Yanchep National Park, the Pinnacles Desert, Swan Valley and the historic port city of Fremantle. Each destination offers an entirely different experience while still comfortably fitting into a single day trip.

Planning a trip? Explore KINTO car hire in Western Australia to find a vehicle that suits your journey.

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Plan your Western Australia road trip itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Western Australia with a car rental, a 5 to 7-day itinerary is a great way to experience the state’s diverse landscapes and some of its most iconic destinations.

Day 1- 2: Start with Perth’s city and coast

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Start your journey in Australia’s sunniest capital city, Perth. Take in the city and Swan River views from Kings Park, wander the Western Australia Botanic Gardens, stroll the waterfront at Elizabeth Quay and lay on the pristine white sands at Cottesloe Beach. Beginning your road trip in Perth gives you time to ease into the journey, collect your KINTO and prepare before heading further across Western Australia.

Day 3 - 4: Swan Valley or Margaret River

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Once you’ve explored Perth, it’s time to head to one of Western Australia’s renowned food and wine regions.

If you’re short on time, visit Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region located less than an hour from Perth. Known for its wineries and artisan food producers, it’s an easy day trip or overnight stop. Families can also visit Caversham Wildlife Park inside Whiteman Park to see some native Australian wildlife.

If you have a little longer, continue south to Margaret River. The drive takes around 3 hours and rewards you with spectacular coastline views along the way. Here you’ll find world-class wines, walking trails, popular surf beaches, and nearby attractions like Mammoth Cave and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

Day 5 - 7: Continue your adventure north or south

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With your final few days, your Western Australia road trip itinerary can continue further south to Albany, where dramatic coastal scenery and turquoise waters await. Alternatively, travel north towards Cervantes and the Pinnacles Desert before continuing along the Coral Coast to destinations like picturesque Kalbarri.

Western Australia’s vast size means there is always another region worth exploring, whether you’re planning a short trip or longer holiday.

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Planning your Western Australia road trip

A little preparation can make your travel to Western Australia smoother, especially if your route takes you through remote areas. Before hitting the road, check distances to your next stop and plan fuel stops ahead of time, as petrol stations can be few and far between when travelling outside of major cities. Download offline maps in case mobile reception becomes limited, and book accommodation ahead of time in peak periods. For more affordable travel to Western Australia, consider travelling outside peak holiday periods and plan your accommodation and itinerary ahead of time. If you’re visiting national parks, check if there are entry fees or if passes apply before you arrive. Taking a little extra time to plan ahead can help you along the journey.  

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Why KINTO makes exploring WA easier

Once you’ve planned out your route, choosing the right vehicle for your journey can help you travel with confidence. KINTO offers a fleet of Toyota vehicles that can be booked through an easy-to-use app for a day, a weekend, or longer*, depending on your road trip plans. With some locations available 24/7, early starts and late-night returns are easier to fit around your plans.

If you’re starting your journey in Perth, you can explore KINTOs Perth car hire options before heading off on your road trip. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, you can enjoy the freedom to discover Western Australia at your own pace, from coastal scenery to desert terrain.

Download the KINTO app today and start planning your Western Australia adventure.

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When is the best time to travel to Western Australia?

The best time to visit Western Australia depends on your destination. A popular time to travel to Perth and the state’s south-west is during spring (September - November), when temperatures are mild for hiking, seeing wildflowers, and visiting wineries. The northern regions are best visited in the dry season, from May to October, when rainfall is minimal.

How many days do you need for a Western Australia road trip?

Allow 5 to 7 days to explore Perth and nearby regions such as the Swan Valley or Margaret River. If you want a more relaxed pace or to venture further to places like Esperance, Albany or the Kimberley’s, allow 10 to 14 days.

Can I take a rental car on WA's unsealed roads?

No. KINTO vehicles must remain on sealed roads and cannot be driven on unsealed roads, other than private driveways. Before setting out, check your planned route as some regional attractions and national parks in Western Australia may include gravel or unsealed roads.

Please refer to our Membership Agreement for more information.