There’s nothing more exciting than warmer weather and longer days–surefire signs that summer is just around the corner. The only challenge? Deciding where you should go on your summer holiday.
Are you planning a road trip or need a car for rent to explore at your own pace? We’ll help make your decision a little easier with our top destinations for the perfect sun-kissed vacay.
Merimbula
Located on the gorgeous Sapphire Coast of NSW is Merimbula, a picturesque seaside town. If your ideal summer vacation is sun, sand and beach, this is the spot for you.
Merimbula is surrounded by a rugged coastline, spectacular ocean and calm lakes, making it an ideal relaxing getaway. Swim, snorkel and surf the turquoise waters along the coast while spending a summer in the sun of this enchanting seaside town.
There are fantastic spots to eat, fresh oysters to slurp, cocktails to sip and walking tracks to explore. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you hike and roam this coastal paradise.
How to get there: Merimbula is located along the rugged coast of NSW. Need car hire? Drive your KINTO just 3 hours South of Canberra or 6 hours from Sydney.
Summer Vibes: Beach days, seafood, and exploring nature.
Don’t miss: the Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track, a short walk through the lush rainforest. Or Magic Mountain for thrilling rides that the kids will love.
Port Douglas
Far North Queensland is a remarkable destination. In particular, the town of Port Douglas offers a combination of stunning beaches, dense rainforests and beautiful, balmy weather.
While Port Douglas is a small town, it feels like anything but; with a diverse range of delicious cuisine, including a mixture of relaxed, upscale and fine dining. There are also cafes, bars, and pubs with live music and plenty of shopping opportunities.
Aside from the town, you're a short distance from the magnificent Mosman Gorge, Historic Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest, to name a few must-see destinations. And with reliable car hire vehicles, exploring these incredible spots is easier than ever. These spots, combined with diving and snorkelling tours along the Great Barrier Reef, make Port Douglas a fantastic summer destination.
How to get there? Jump in your KINTO and take the picturesque drive alongside beaches and small towns to Port Douglas, an hour north of Cairns.
Summer Vibes: Beaches, markets, and rainforest adventures.
Don't miss: Daintree Rainforest for your chance to see a Cassowary in the wild or Hartley's Crocodile Adventure to see these apex predators up close!
Yarra Valley
Change things up this summer with a trip to the Yarra Valley, one of Victoria's premier wine regions. Jump in the car hire and drive north of Melbourne to spend the warm summer days soaking up the sun, surrounded by scenic vineyards and sampling the best wines the region has to offer.
The Yarra Valley has no shortage of top dining destinations where you can eat mouth-watering dishes using fresh, local produce. Not to mention, there are lovely waterfalls and gardens to see, fruit picking, and many small towns to visit while there.
How to get there? Getting here is a breeze; search "car hire near me", pick up your KINTO and take the 1-hour drive from Melbourne in style.
Summer Vibes: Wineries, serene rolling hills, and gourmet foods.
Don't miss: Visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery if you're craving something sweet.
Esperance
Get ready for the ultimate summer adventure in Esperance, WA. This small town packs a punch with dazzling stretches of sand to laze about, sparkling seasides to swim and surf, and coastal parklands to explore.
See cute kangaroos on Lucky Beach in Cape Le Grand National Park, spot wildlife on a scenic cruise, and discover the beauty of nature in the surrounding national parks. Or, if that's not your speed, unwind at the local brewery and enjoy a cold beer. Esperance has everything you need for a relaxing holiday in a striking setting.
Where is it? A 7.5-hour road trip in a KINTO rental car from Perth.
Summer Vibes: Pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and exploring the coast.
Don't miss: Lake Hillier, one of the beautiful pink lakes in Western Australia located near Esperance.
Now’s the perfect time to map out your summer vacation, and KINTO’s car hire solutions are here to make it a breeze. With hundreds of locations all across Australia, we can help you—and all your luggage— get to your holiday destination comfort and style.
Ready to hit the road? Get a quote and book a KINTO® today so you can focus on planning the fun stuff, like what beaches you’re going to explore!
FAQs
Is it worth hiring a car in Australia?
Yes! We believe it is. Hiring a car in Australia offers flexibility and convenience, with a range of different vehicles available to explore our beautiful country. Australia is a big country so hiring a rental means you don’t have to rely on public transport and you can see all the attractions you like.
KINTO has hundreds of convenient locations Australia-wide, with some available 24/7 so you can pick up a vehicle, explore at your own pace and reach destinations easily.
Is it cheaper to rent a car from an airport or a local location?
Hiring a car from an airport often means paying a “premium location” surcharge. We suggest doing your research before booking, as it may work out cheaper overall to catch a taxi to a different rental location, rather than hiring a car direct from the airport.
When you rent with KINTO, you’ll pay the hourly or daily hire charge for your chosen vehicle plus the cost per kilometre stated in your app at the time of booking, and that’s it.
What kind of licence do you need to drive in Australia?
To drive in Australia, you’ll need a valid driver’s licence from your home country and, in some cases, an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence isn’t in English.
To sign up and drive with KINTO, you’ll also need to meet our requirements to join, including the eligibility requirements, plus have an English translation of your driving licence or an IDP.
Please note, the above are recommendations only and the KINTO® team has no paid partnership or affiliation with the recommendations or businesses listed.