Sponsored by Brisbane Airport
When life feels same-same, hit the road. California was built for epic adventures that shake off the everyday. From the twists of Highway 1 to the retro charm of Route 66 and the hidden gems tucked between desert, coast and redwoods, every mile invites you to marvel, wander and breathe it all in.
Here, five must-do drives and the exhilarating sights you’ll see along the way…
Highway 1: The iconic coastal drive
You’ve seen it in films, now it’s your turn. Highway 1 hugs California’s dramatic Pacific coastline from Los Angeles to San Francisco and beyond, delivering cinematic views at every turn. Start with a beach day in Santa Monica before cruising past Malibu’s crashing surf, the vineyards of Santa Barbara, and the rugged cliffs of Big Sur. Pull over to watch elephant seals basking on the sand at San Simeon on the way, then finish with the Golden Gate Bridge’s monumental views.
Route 66: A retro drive through history
There’s no better way to tap into Americana than along the legendary Route 66. The famous “Mother Road” celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, making it the perfect time to follow its neon-lit trail. From LA’s vintage diners and bright lights to quirky roadside stops like Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, this route hums with nostalgia. End in the desert at the retro-cool town of Needles, or take a detour off and explore California’s off-the-beaten path locales.
The Desert Loop: Greater Palm Springs and Joshua Tree
For a change of scenery, turn inland. Just two hours from LA, Greater Palm Springs pairs mid-century glamour with desert calm. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to 2,600 metres for spectacular views, or lounge by the pool. Then head to Joshua Tree National Park for wind-sculpted landscapes and otherworldly starry skies. As a certified Dark Sky Park, it’s one of the best stargazing spots in the world.
The Sierra escape: Yosemite and Lake Tahoe
Nature calls in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Start your journey in Yosemite National Park. Hear waterfalls thunder, watch granite domes rise around you, and be awestruck on unforgettable hikes. Continue north to Lake Tahoe for alpine scenery, summer swims, or snowy adventures depending on the season. For those chasing the California Double — ski in the morning, surf in the afternoon — this is where the mountain leg begins.
The sportscursion drive: stadiums and surf breaks
For fans who want to combine game day with getaways, this themed itinerary blends California’s sporting action with its road-trip spirit. Begin in LA with a Lakers or Dodgers game, then head south to San Diego to catch Major League Baseball’s Padres or an MLS soccer match. Along the way, stop at Huntington Beach for a surf lesson, detour through other Orange County laid-back coastal towns, or score a stadium tour for behind-the-scenes bragging rights.
Choose your own Californian adventure
California’s road trips can be tailored to suit every traveller. Follow a farm-to-table food trail through wine country, unplug with a wellness-focused journey, or discover quirky small towns and boutique wineries tucked just off the main highways. Whatever your theme, exploring by car unlocks a side of California few tourists see — from hot springs in the desert to redwood groves that feel like cathedrals.
Travel tip: fast-track your arrival
Nervous about travelling to the US? Dean Long, CEO of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), says Australian travellers shouldn’t be deterred.
“While the new US administration is taking a closer look at international arrivals, the underlying procedures for Australian visitors remain unchanged,” he says. “The rules are clear, and the process is straightforward for those who are prepared.”
Download the free Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app for smoother travel, suggests Cola Maurirere, a travel advisor at Travel Associates Victoria Point. “I’ve used MPC on my last three US trips,” she says. “The process is so simple — I’ve never waited more than 15 minutes at immigration.”
The app allows ESTA travellers to fast-track immigration at major ports, including Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Getting there: flights to freedom
With more direct flights than ever from Brisbane to Los Angeles, starting your California adventure has never been easier.
- Qantas flies daily year-round on the Dreamliner.
- Delta operates a seasonal service from November to March.
- American Airlines will offer a short-season service in December 2025 and January 2026.
California is the Ultimate Playground. The Golden State’s compact geography means you can surf, ski, hike and dine all within a single trip — or sometimes a day. Whether you’re chasing iconic landmarks or secret detours, these journeys showcase the Golden State’s wild diversity and playful spirit. All that’s left is to choose your route, pack your playlist, and burn dust.
Sponsored by Brisbane Airport. Start planning at Visit California, Los Angeles Tourism, Brisbane Airport. *Flight schedules subject to change. Check with individual carriers for latest availability.
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