qld coast road trip

Queensland Road Trips – 11 BEST Drive Itineraries [2024]

• Last Updated: February 2, 2024

We’ve driven all over the Sunshine State to bring you this epic guide to the best Queensland road trips! If you’re wondering what drives in Queensland you can’t miss, this article is for you!

If you’re the kind of person that loves packing the car and hitting the road on an epic road trip, then chances are you already have driving around Australia on your bucket list.

We have travelled the world searching for the most iconic driving itineraries, yet for some reason we never really had the chance to explore much of our home country.

That all changed in 2020, when we were lucky enough to be able to get up to Queensland on the northeast coast of Australia and travel around in our campervan.

After more than a decade on the road, it takes a lot to impress us. But what we found in the Sunshine State was nothing short of spectacular!

We started in the south exploring the rolling hills and forests of the Hinterland and zig-zagged along the coast all the way to Cooktown.

The further north and west you go the greater the opportunity for some great 4WD Queensland road trips that should not be missed if you have the right vehicle and are prepared for adventure.

If you’re ready to find the best Queensland drives, fill the tank and dive into our latest epic guide!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Table of Contents

Gold Coast Hinterland Road Trip

Big red bash road trip, pacific coast way road trip, great beach drive road trip, matilda way road trip, overlander’s way road trip, savannah way road trip – queensland section, cairns to cooktown road trip – inland route, the bloomfield track road trip, cairns to cape york road trip, great inland way road trip – queensland section, what are your favourite queensland road trips, the best road trips in queensland – itineraries, highlights, conditions and distances.

Here is our list of Queensland road trips that all people can enjoy.

We’ll start from the south and work up north, as most people fly into Brisbane or the Gold Coast before continuing onwards.

Let’s hit the road!

• Route – Surfers Paradise to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
• Distance – 109km
• Duration – 2 hours 30 minutes
• Vehicle – Any
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed
• Highlights –  Lush rainforest, waterfalls, lakes, valleys and headlands, Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park

The Gold Coast Hinterland is an area of stunning natural beauty with ancient national parks peppered throughout the region.

Up here you’ll find plenty of activities for travellers who want some fresh air in their lives, but still prefer to have easy access to the city literally just an hour away.

The Gold Coast Hinterland Tourist Drive boasts plenty of magnificent lookouts out towards the mountains and active volcanic creeks, waterfalls and swimming holes.

This is a short and easy Queensland road trip that starts in Surfers Paradise and heads up towards Toowoomba, making it perfect for a day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or a possibility for a weekend away.

After you’ve ticked off all the awesome things to do in the Gold Coast , your itinerary will see you drive up to Tamborine Mountain then back down towards Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park.

The beautiful Tamborine Mountain offers a variety of hikes through the national park, as well as hang gliding off of the launch site that overlooks an otherworldly valley!

If you’re more into sampling local produce, there are plenty of distilleries, wineries and fruit and vegetable farms all around this scenic mountain town.

After you’ve hiked, ate and drank all throughout the national park, head down to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area .

This is where you’ll find the gorgeous Springbrook National Park, home to the Hinterland’s most iconic site, the Natural Bridge.

This enchanting waterfall cascades through arches in a basalt cave and is a wonderful place to walk around and practice your photography.

Then wind your way higher along Lamington National Park Road where you can enjoy spotting waterfalls while strolling amidst treetops covered in blossoming flowers.

Finish up your drive at the legendary O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , where you can take part in a bunch of activities, or spoil yourself by spending the night.

• Route – Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Warwick, Barcaldine, Winton and Birdsville
• Distance – 1892km
• Duration – 5 days
• Vehicle – 4WD (Can do in a 2WD. Route below.)
• Road Conditions – Sealed at the beginning then becomes unsealed near the end. You can take another route, see below.
• Highlights – Nindigully Pub, Artesian mud bath, Dig Tree’s history, Cooper Creek, Birdsville Pub

The Big Red Bash Road Trip is popular for those who want a bit of adventure in southern Queensland.

The Queensland outback is the place to go if you want some of the best, authentic experiences in Australia.

The landscape offers rolling hills, endless horizons, and quaint towns that will make for a memorable trip, with the possibility of seeing a lot more wildlife than other tourists!

Start off in Brisbane and then head inland towards Ipswich , past Toowoomba and then up to Warwick and Barcaldine.

If you can, time your trip to be on a Saturday, where there is a fantastic little market at Pittsworth. So make sure you stop by for some great coffee and home made cakes.

Then on your way South you will find open grazing land where you can see cattle or even the odd horse if you’re lucky.

This drive is Southeast Queensland’s own road less travelled. Satisfy your hunger for adventure with a journey to one of the most unique events in Australia.

In the midst of Queensland’s vibrant red desert, you’ll find The Big Red Bash–the world’s most remote music festival.

It is an annual rock concert hosted on sand dunes along Birdsville’s Simpson Desert border and usually takes place in July.

Getting there is all part of this ultimate Australian experience as well—you’re going to be traversing across some incredible scenery both before getting there and once arriving at the destination itself.

So take your time, enjoy everything that surrounds you while making your way out into our nation’s far-flung corners, stopping every so often to catch your breath and take it all in.

If you have a 2WD, go through Roma and Windorah. There is another way from Brisbane to Birdsville for those who have 2WD vehicles. You can travel through Roma and Windorah.

A Route Breakdown

• Brisbane to Nindigully, 501km
• Nindigully to Cunnamulla, 340km
• Cunnamulla to Noccundra, 340km
• Noccundra to Innamincka, 311km
• Innamincka to Birdsville, 400km

• Route – Brisbane up the coast to Cairns
• Distance – 1874km
• Duration – 10 days.
• Road Conditions – the roads are fully sealed the entire route
• Highlights – Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Ingham, Mission Beach, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, Atherton Tablelands, Cairns

The Pacific Coast Way is a highway that links towns and cities along the east coast of Australia.

The route starts in Sydney, then goes all the way up to Cairns on Queensland’s northeast coast.

Along this path, you’ll find plenty of coastal havens as well as inland hinterland regions with beautiful farming areas – perfect for those looking for an escape from city life!

Keep your eyes open. There are many hidden gems waiting just outside major population centres ready to be discovered off this famous road trip (and they’re worth every kilometre!).

Our favourite side trip took us to Magnetic Island, with which we immediately fell in love! Here’s our day trip to Magnetic Island guide.

READ MORE – Want to learn more about this road trip? Check out our article on Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip .

• Route – Maroochydore, Noosa Heads, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay
• Distance – 419 km
• Duration – 3 – 7 days
• Vehicle – 4WD only
• Road Conditions – Sand Beaches driving. Need to be prepared with rescue gear
• Highlights – Noosa Heads, Double Island Point, Great Sandy National Park, Rainbow Beach, Carlo Sandblow, Fraser Island, 75 Mile Beach, Marcoola Beach

With its endless stretches of coastline here in Queensland, World Heritage listed landscapes and quirky, colourful towns and so many amazing road trips, they don’t come much better than the Great Beach Drive.

This 3-7 day off-the-beaten-track road trip will take you 380km on an adventure from Noosa to Hervey Bay via Fraser Island!

This road trip covers Rainbow Beach, 75 Mile Beach on Fraser Island and Marcoola Beach in Hervey Bay. The Great Beach Drive is full of lots of beach beauty.

This one is only for the 4WD, so bring your own or you can rent one. The four-wheel-drive tracks have beautiful views that are worth seeing on a sunny day.

They also lead to beaches with waves crashing against them in the mornings before sunrise. But also at sunset hours after work for people seeking relaxation or adventure from their everyday lives.

This area has plenty of adorable permanent residents like koalas and kookaburras who live alongside migratory birds too such as pelicans, cormorants and fairy terns which can be seen while fishing off one side or another!

Driving on some of the world’s most stunning beaches and through idyllic National Parks, this road trip also connects to World Heritage listed Fraser Island (K’gari) in Queensland’s Australia Nature Coast region.

There’s no shortage of reasons as to why people love the scenic drive along Fraser Island’s famous 75-mile beach. Another one of Queensland’s pristine stretches of white sands and crystal clear waters, this adventure is like no other.

• Noosa to Rainbow Beach – 70km
• Rainbow Beach to Fraser Island – 157km
• Fraser Island to Hervey Bay – 44km

• Route – Cunnamulla, Blackall, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry, Karumba
• Distance – 1812km
• Duration – 5 – 8 days
• Highlights – Charleville Cosmos Centre, Longreach museums, Age of Dinosaurs and Lark Quarry stampede site, Karumba.

The Matilda Way is an excellent way to experience rural Australia while travelling 1812 kilometres from the New South Wales border in Tamworth through St George, Charleville, Cunnamulla, Blackall, Mitchell Creek National Park (with over 250 waterfalls), Taroom and eventually Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria.

So grab two mates along for this extraordinary journey as well your trusty vehicle.

The Matilda Way road trip is a 1,812km highway that is fully sealed, starting from the New South Wales border at Cunnamulla and runs all the way up to the Gulf of Carpentaria .

This road will lead you on an adventurous trip with different experiences each day!

Here is a rough guide

• Cunnamulla to Charleville – 200km
• Charleville to Blackall – 300km
• Blackall to Longreach – 214km
• Longreach to Winton – 180km
• Winton to Cloncurry – 350km
• Cloncurry to Karumba – 445km

• Route – Townsville, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry, Mount Isa, Camooweal
• Distance – 1097km
• Highlights – Historic Charters Towers, Porcupine Gorge, Kronosaurus Korner, Hard Times Mine, Underground Hospital and Camooweal Caves

On your Overlander’s Way road trip, you’ll get to explore untouched natural beauty and dinosaur discoveries while admiring breathtaking landscapes and interacting with rich Indigenous history – without having to take your vacation days from work!

Once only for the 4×4 vehicles, it is now sealed so everyone can explore this part of Queensland.

Along with seeing some amazing natural sights like the Great Barrier Reef and pristine beaches in North Queensland, your journey will also include all sorts of intriguing historic sites such as architecturally rich towns which showcase Australian history.

The road starts near the city of Townsville (check out our guide to all the great things to do in Townsville ), then you head west where the real adventure begins.

From Charters Towers where you will learn all about the gold mining town to learning about dinosaurs in Hughenden at the Flinders Discovery Centre, which are home to some incredible ancient fossil beds with dinosaur footprints preserved by natural forces over time!

You can learn about the cattle drovers at the Drovers’ Camp Museum in  Camooweal Caves National Park , which also has amazing sinkholes dating back 500 million years.

This land is just bursting full-speed ahead into a new future that shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon – even without leaving the bitumen roads behind!

The Overlander’s Way road trip is a Queensland route that will have you fall in love with the country all over again.

This is the inland route for any vehicle to drive. Here is a route guide.

• Townsville to Charters Towers – 137km
• Charters Towers to Hughenden – 248km
• Hughenden to Richmond – 115km
• Richmond to Julia Creek – 149km
• Julia Creek to Cloncurry – 137km
• Cloncurry to Mount Isa – 121km
• Mount Isa to Camooweal – 190km

• Route – Cairns, Ravenshoe, Undara, Forsayth, Cobbold Gorge, Karumba, Boodjamulla
• Distance – 1493km
• Duration – 5 days (2 weeks to do the whole way across to WA)
• Vehicle – Suitable for both 4WD and 2WD vehicles depending on the route chosen
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed but often closed by flooding streams during wet season. Roads can wash away during these times.
• Highlights – Waterfalls in Ravenshoe, Rainforest walks in Atherton, Undara Volcanic National Park, Mt Surprise, Talaroo Hot Springs, Cobbold Gorge, Innot Hot Springs,

The Savannah Way is an amazing route for exploring the tropical savannahs of northern Australia.

The route winds from Cairns, Queensland to Broome in Western Australia and offers a unique opportunity to see some incredible sights along the way including ancient rock art paintings and Australian wildlife.

The Queensland section of Savannah Way goes from Cairns to Hell’s Gate or vice versa.

Your Savannah Way safari starts in Cairns, the crowning jewel of the Queensland coast. Set your sights south toward Millaa Millaa, a drive of about 1.5 hours where you will find stunning waterfalls amidst vibrant green rainforests and waterways that are perfect for swimming at any time during the year!

Once there, make sure to take in not only the well-known waterfall but also Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls before heading on to Ravenshoe.

• Cairns to Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands – 62.5 kms 
• Mareeba to Undara – 229 kms
• Undara to Cobbold Gorge – 229 kms
• Cobbold Gorge to Croydon – 232 kms
• Croydon to Karumba – 226 kms
• Karumba to Burketown – 281 kms
• Burketown to Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park  – 234 kms

• Route – Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Mossman, Cooktown
• Distance – 256km
• Duration – 3 – 5 days
• Vehicle – 2WD
• Road – Road it sealed the whole way. You do need to take a ferry over to Cape Tribulation
• Highlights – Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Aboriginal Rock Art, James Cook Museum

If you’ve always wanted to see where the Reef meets the Rainforest, the only place where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites actually meet, this is the road trip for you!

The 327km drive takes four hours and is full of nature, history, and outback characters that will keep your interest for days on end!

You can explore Cooktown’s historical significance as Australia’s first European settlement or enjoy its beautiful harbour with many local attractions in town.

It may not be the most action-packed adventure around – so pack accordingly if you’re looking for some excitement.

But it’ll definitely get your creative juices flowing before heading off into our vast country again!

• Cairns to Port Douglas
• Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation
• Cape Tribulation to Mossman
• Mossman to Cooktown

While Cooktown itself is a bit far to visit as a day trip from Cairns , you can break it up into two days if looking to return back to Cairns.

• Route – Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield, Cooktown
• Distance – 103km
• Duration – 6 – 8 hours
• Vehicle – 4WD only (no caravans or camper trailers)
• Road – Mostly Unsealed. Some areas are sealed. Caution when wet and have had heavy rain. There are river crossings, steep climbs and descends and boggy patches.
• Highlights – Emmagen Creek, Cowie Beach, Bloomfield River and lookout, Bana Yirriji Arts Centre, Wujal Wujal Falls

The Bloomfield Track is one of Queensland’s most scenic short 4WD drives that leads to the coastal town in Wujal-Wujal.

The track passes through a rainforest archway with majestic plants, unexpected wildlife and history.

It was constructed by protestors back in 1983-84 leading up to an important environmental protest known as the “Bloomfield Blockade.”

Nowadays it has become World Heritage protected land thanks to these protesters who were concerned for its natural beauty!

The coast drive from Cooktown down south on Australia’s Northern Territory border all the way beyond Huonbrook Station takes travellers past spectacular views, creek crossings and secluded beaches where they can take some well-deserved rest before continuing their journey inland into more remote areas.

READ MORE: Coming from south of the border? Make the most of the journey with our Sydney to Brisbane road trip itinerary !

With varying conditions and a mixture of gravel, red soil, or wet weather on the road, driving can be tricky.

With its rugged landscape and plenty of natural creek crossings after heavy rainstorms this drive may become impassable at times as well- so make sure you have your 4WD vehicle always ready!

You can do it in one long day or break it up. Here is a rough guide

• Cape Tribulation to Bloomfield – 39km
• Bloomfield to Cooktown – 64km

• Route – Cairns, Cooktown, Cape York
• Distance – 1964km
• Duration – 14 days return
• Vehicle – 4WD
• Road Condition – Can be difficult in areas. Can flood in the wet season
• Highlights – White sand beaches at Portland Roads, northernmost point of the continent, rock art in Laura

No one can claim to have seen all of Australia without going on a long, adventurous road trip.

One such adventure that you should take in your lifetime is the 1000km journey from Cairns straight up to Pajinka (traditional name for the northernmost point of mainland Australia at top of Cape York Peninsula).

Australians have an adventurous spirit that is deeply ingrained in their culture. In Cairns, you can jump into a 4WD and head off on an unforgettable journey to the top of Australia with cooked towns as your stops along the way.

You will experience creek crossings and corrugations, meet interesting people from various communities while encountering relics of wartime history all throughout this life-changing adventure through Cape York !

Along this breathtaking drive, there are natural treasures like national parks with their bird-filled wetlands and rainforests as well as waterfalls, beaches, and Old Telegraph Track which will challenge even the most hardcore adventurer.

Although it’s not easy driving through rough terrain or crossing treacherous waters during the rainy season beware: the rewards never stop coming!

• Cairns to Cooktown – 244km
• Cooktown to Laura – 175km
• Laura to Coen – 220km
• Coen to Lockhart River – 210km
• Lockhart River to Bramwell Station – 154km
• Bramwell Station to Bamaga – 212km
• The Tip – 35km

• Route – Hebel, Roma, Injune, Emerald , Clermont, Charters Tower, Ravenshoe, Atherton, Mareeba, Cairns, Cooktown
• Distance – 1863km
• Duration – 9 days is you choose to start in Hebel to 16 days if you choose to start in Sydney
• Vehicle – 2WD.
• Road Condition – Road is sealed the whole way.
• Highlights – Cobb & Co. Charging Station, Carnarvon Gorge, learn about the gold rush in Charters Towers, Rainforest walks in Atherton Tablelands, Many waterfalls around Atherton, Mareeba and Cairns, Aboriginal experience in Cooktown

Want to go off the beaten track? Then let’s leave the coast and drive inland through Queensland’s outback.

You’ll traverse some of the most uninhabitable landscapes, steep in history with rural towns as well.

Driving up here is a totally different experience than driving along coastal highways since there are fewer service stations.

But it does offer unique experiences for those who want something less travelled that has many tourist attractions such as red sand deserts or gazing at stars under night skies!

The Great Inland Way is a road trip that follows the Australian coast from Sydney to Brisbane.

The Queensland leg of this journey passes through Dirranbandi and St George before detouring off onto some surprisingly flat, sealed roads leading into Surat, Roma and Injune.

Stop for lunch at Nindigully Pub (if you dare!) in Australia’s oldest hotel-turned restaurant which offers up 1.2kg hamburgers called Road Train!

Journey through Queensland’s Outback from the mountains to the coast. Continue along well signed and flat sealed roads to Surat, Roma and Injune en route to sandstone escarpments of Carnarvon National Park.

Stop off at Emerald for a fossicking permit before detouring on Capella, Clermont, Charters Towers or Undara with plenty of stops in between!

Find an authentic Australian experience by visiting Ravenshoe’s highest pub or enjoy gourmet cheeses at Atherton Tablelands’ luxurious resorts after exploring lush rainforest gardens.

Spend time admiring birds-of-paradise and other native flora from Kuranda’s scenic cable car perspective then visit Cairns where you can explore nature above ground as well as below sea level!

Stop off at the gateway to Queensland’s sapphire jewel fields for fossicking permits, detour through the tropical fruit growing area of the Atherton Tablelands for fresh local produce before navigating the Cairns hinterland, Queensland’s largest protected rainforest.

After heading north all the way to Cooktown to explore the outback and the extraordinary Aboriginal rock art.

This road trip is fully-sealed the whole way weaving its way from Sydney to outback NSW and Queensland, the Central Queensland Highlands and then as far north as Cooktown.

• Hebel to St George – 161km
• St George to Roma – 196km
• Roma to Injune – 91km
• Injune to Emerald – 311km
• Emerald to Clermont – 109km
• Clermont to Charters Towers – 374km
• Charters Towers to Ravenshoe – 465km
• Ravenshoe to Atherton – 51km
• Atherton to Mareeba – 33km
• Mareeba to Cairns – 63km
• Cairns to Cooktown – 326km

There are so many great Queensland road trips. We hope this list has given you some ideas for your next road trip.

There is so much beauty to be seen and so many activities and attractions to fill your days.

There are some that are full of adventure that you need a 4WD. And there are some we are yet to do which are all the 4WD ones. But we hope to do them later in the year!

What is your favourite Queensland road trip? Drop a comment below and let us know!

And while you’re at it, check out all these other epic things to do in Queensland !

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Brisbane to Cairns Drive – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls – The 10 BEST Cascades to See

16 BEST Cairns Day Trips Not to Be Missed [2024 Guide]

Related Posts

The best coastal perth to esperance road trip itinerary, the most epic perth to broome road trip itinerary [2024], the 23 best things to do in perth (2024 locals guide), the perfect port stephens itinerary (for a 2024 weekend), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

9 Unmissable Things To Do In Miami

The 12 Best UK Beaches To Visit In 2023

The Best Areas To Stay When Visiting Warsaw, Poland

The Ultimate 2 Week Queensland Roadtrip: 2023 Guide

• Yucatan Peninsula
• Winter in Europe
• Whitsundays
• Where you should stay
• where to stay in porto
• Where to stay in Bali
• where to stay cyprus

Editorial Note: Earth Curious contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

With nearly 7,000 kilometres of coastline, a road trip along the Queensland coast boasts stunning beaches, islands and jaw-dropping scenery.

As the second-largest state in Australia, the best way to explore Queensland is on a road trip. 

From spectacular beaches to hidden waterfalls and tropical islands, there is so much to see during a road trip through Queensland. 

If you’re planning a trip to Queensland any time soon, you must make this 14-day road trip throughout the state. This road trip will involve you hiring a rental car or motorhome.

Day 1: Brisbane to Maroochydore 

Start your road trip in the capital of Queensland, Brisbane. Pick up your rental car or motorhome hire and head north to the Sunshine Coast. 

The distance from Brisbane to Maroochydore is 103km and takes 90 minutes. Along the way, you’ll drive past the Glass House Mountains, a spectacular sight to see. 

What to do and see in Maroochydore? 

Leave Brisbane early enough to have at least one full day in Maroochydore because there is quite a bit to do! 

Once you arrive in Maroochydore and check in to your accommodation, head straight to the beach for a swim! You can swim at Maroochydore Beach, Alexandra Headlands, or Mooloolaba, as they’re all close together. 

After you’ve cooled off, grab some lunch before your next activity. 

Once you’ve had lunch, put on your walking shoes and tackle the Sunshine Coast Scenic Walk. This coastal pathway stretches 4.4km from Cotton Tree Park in Maroochydore to the Esplanade in Mooloolaba. As you walk along the path, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the beach and ocean beyond.

Head somewhere nice for dinner and enjoy a good night’s sleep before getting up early to head to your next destination. 

Where to eat in Maroochydore?

Since Maroochydore is a popular beachside town, there are plenty of places to eat, including

• Ocean Ended Restaurant & Bar
• Junk Maroochydore
• Corbin’s Kitchen and Wine Bar 

Where to stay in Maroochydore? 

• The Sebel Maroochydore (high-end accommodation) 
• Waves Maroochy River (mid-range accommodation)
• Mantra Sirocco (low-end accommodation) 

Day 2: Maroochydore to Noosa 

The second day of your journey through Queensland will take you from Maroochydore to Noosa, one of the most famous spots on the Sunshine Coast.

The drive from Maroochydore to Noosa is 46 km and will take around 40 minutes. 

Get up early to drive to Noosa to ensure you can enjoy a full day exploring the outdoors. 

What to do and see in Noosa?

After you’ve checked into your accommodation (or caravan park), head straight to Noosa Main Beach. The ocean at this beach is calm due to its being protected by the headland, making it the perfect place to swim. 

Once you’ve spent a couple of hours swimming in the ocean and relaxing on the sand, head to one of the restaurants along the main strip for some lunch. 

Afterwards, head back to the beach, but instead of going onto the sand, head to Noosa National Park on the northern end for a spectacular walk to a hidden gem. 

The path in Noosa National Park wraps around the headland, meaning you’re walking right on the coastline the entire time! With plenty of secluded beaches along the way, you can stop off for a swim on a beach you’ve got entirely to yourself! 

You can walk all the way to Hell’s Gate before turning back, or you can continue until you reach Alexandria Bay. Just remember that you will have to walk back, too! 

Where to eat in Noosa?

Some of the best places to eat in Noosa include

• Season Restaurant & Bar
• Bang Bang Noosa 

Where to stay in Noosa?

• Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas (high-end accommodation)
• Noosa Lakes Resort (mid-range accommodation)
• Bounce Noosa (low-end accommodation) 

Day 3: Noosa to K’gari (Fraser Island)

Today you will leave Noosa very early to head to the largest sand island in the world. 

Located off the coast of Hervey Bay, K’gari (Fraser Island), at 120km in length, K’gari is the largest sand island in the world and one of the most beautiful places in Queensland.

The drive from Noosa to Hervey Bay (where you can get to K’gari) is 158 km and will take two hours. There is an island on the resort where you can stay. However, it’s best if you have a 4WD so you can travel around the island and even camp if you want to!

What to do and see on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

Some of the best things to do on K’gari (Fraser Island), which you can do on your first day with your 4WD, include 

• Swimming in Lake McKenzie – a freshwater lake surrounded by some of the whitest sand you’ll ever see.
• Drive along 75 Mile Beach.
• Explore the Maheno Shipwreck – located on 75 Mile Beach, this shipwreck has been on the island since 1935 and is a must-see. 

Where to eat on K’gari (Fraser Island)? 

The majority of the restaurants on K’gari (Fraser Island) can be found near the Kingfisher Bay Resort, including 

• The Sand Bar
• Maheno Restaurant
• Sand & wood 

Where to stay on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

• Kingfisher Bay Resort (high-end accommodation)
• Fraser Island Retreat (mid-range accommodation)
• Fraser Island Beach Houses (low-end accommodation)

Related: These are the best beaches in Australia.

Day 4: K’gari (Fraser Island) 

On your second day on K’gari (Fraser Island), you will explore more of what this beautiful island offers. 

You will hop on the ferry in the afternoon and spend the night in Hervey Bay. 

What to do and see on K’gari (Fraser Island)? 

Some of the best things you’ll do on K’gari (Fraser Island) today include

• Float along Eli Creek – Located along 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek pours four million litres of water into the ocean every hour. The creek is deceptively powerful but a great spot to float down on an inflatable toy. 
• Soak up the view from Indian Head – Located on the northern end of 75 Mile Beach, Indian Head is the island’s most easterly point. Standing at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. 
• Swim in Lake Wabby – Lake Wabby is the island’s deepest lake and is a great spot to cool off in the afternoon. 

After a fun-filled day on the island, hop on the ferry back to Hervey Bay to spend the night before departing for your next destination. 

Where to eat in Hervey Bay?

Some of the best places to eat in Hervey Bay include

• Enzo’s On The Beach
• Sea Breeze Cafe Hervey Bay
• Santini Pizza E Cucina 

Where to stay in Hervey Bay? 

• Akama Resort (high-end accommodation)
• Oaks Hervey Bay Resort and Spa (mid-range accommodation)
• Woolshed Eco Lodge (low-end accommodation) 

Day 5: Hervey Bay to Agnes Water & Seventeen Seventy

Rise early on day five of your two-week Queensland road trip as you’ll be driving two and a half hours north to the beautiful beach towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy. 

You will only be spending one day in this region, so it’s best to get up there early to make the most of your time there!

What to do and see in Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy?

These two towns are known as the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, so you can expect the beaches and outer ocean to be stunning.

Some of the best things to do in the area include

• Great Barrier Reef tours
• Great Barrier Reef scenic flights 
• Bush Heritage Paperbark Forest Boardwalk
• Horizons Kangaroo Sanctuary 

Where to eat in Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy?

• Drift & Wood Restaurant & Bar
• 1770 Rusty Pelican
• Barraca by the Sea 

Where to stay in Agnes Water & Seventeen Seventy?

• 1770 Lagoons Central Apartment Resort (high-end accommodation)
• Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort (mid-range accommodation) 
• Mango Tree Motel (low-end accommodation) 

Day 6: Agnes Water to Yeppoon

Today you will drive the farthest you’ve driven so far on your Queensland road trip. Get up early to tackle the three-hour drive from Agnes Water to Yeppoon.

Yeppoon is renowned for its beaches, warm climate and islands located off the coast. 

During your one day in Yeppoon, you have two options for things to do. However, both will be outdoors, experiencing the best of what the town offers!

What to do and see in Yeppoon? 

Leaving Agnes Water early in the morning is best so you can make it to Yeppoon early enough to enjoy the entire day.

During your one day in Yeppoon, you can do two different activities: heading to Great Keppel Island or relaxing on the beach or lagoon.

If you are tired from exploring and driving, Yeppoon Lagoon is a great place to spend the day as it’s a public pool right on the beach, offering stunning views. 

However, a day trip to Great Keppel Island is a must if you’re up for it. As one of the 27 islands off the coast of Yeppoon, Great Keppel Island is one of the most popular because of its untouched beauty. 

Head to the island on the Freedom Fast Cat and spend your day exploring secluded beaches, snorkelling on the reef and swimming with turtles and dolphins. However, if you choose to spend your time on Great Keppel Island, you won’t be disappointed. 

Where to eat in Yeppoon? 

• The Rocks Yeppoon Bar + Restaurant
• The Bungalow
• Vue Wine Bar & Restaurant 

Where to stay in Yeppoon? 

• Oshen Apartments Yeppoon (high-end accommodation) 
• Coral Inn Boutique Hotel (mid-range accommodation)
• Discovery Parks Yeppoon (low-end accommodation) 

Day 7: Yeppoon to Airlie Beach

Today you will have to get on the road early as you will be embarking on your longest drive of the trip today. The drive from Yeppoon to Airlie Beach is 506km, and will take around five hours and 30 minutes to get there. 

Airlie Beach is the Gateway to The Whitsundays and is where you’ll be spending the next few days. 

Airlie Beach is a busy tourist town in the high season, so depending on what time you plan on making this road trip, book your accommodation in advance. 

What to do and see in Airlie Beach? 

Since you will arrive around midday or after, spend your first day in Airlie Beach just relaxing after a long drive. 

The following two days will be spent on the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands! 

However, if you’re eager to get out and explore the town, Airlie Beach lagoon is a great place to cool off and enjoy the sunshine. 

Where to eat in Airlie Beach? 

Some of the best places to eat in Airlie Beach include

• Fish D’vine & The Rum Bar 
• The Deck Airlie Beach
• Sorrento Restaurant & Bar 

Where to stay in Airlie Beach? 

• Coral Sea Resort (high-end accommodation)
• Airlie Beach Hotel (mid-range accommodation) 
• Whitsunday Vista Resort (low-end accommodation) 

Day 8 & 9: Whitsundays Reefsleep Experience 

Today and tomorrow may be the highlight of your trip through Queensland. 

While exploring the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip is a dream for many, did you know that you can actually sleep on the reef? 

Reefsleep is a two-day/one-night experience where you sleep on the Great Barrier Reef and under the stars. 

Located on Hardy Reef, a permanently moored pontoon, Reefsleep Experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

During your stay, sleep under the stars, enjoy world-class service and food and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. 

You will be provided with food and drinks during your stay. 

On day nine, you will spend another night in Airlie Beach. 

Related: Here’s how to visit The Whitsundays.

• Whitsunday Vista Resort (low-end accommodation)

Day 10: Whitehaven Beach 

No trip to The Whitsundays would be complete without visiting the most photographed beach in Australia, Whitehaven Beach. 

A day trip to Whitehaven Beach with OceanRafting gives you the perfect opportunity to explore this world-famous beach.

What to do and see on Whitehaven Beach? 

During your day trip to Whitehaven Beach with OceanRafting, you will

• See the breathtaking view of Whitehaven Beach at Hill Inlet 
• Swim in the crystal clear waters of Whitehaven Beach
• Walk along the squeaky, 98% pure silica white sand 
• Snorkel on pristine, exclusive sites on Hook and Border Island 

Food and drinks will be provided throughout the day.

Once you return to Airlie Beach, you’ll stay one more night before heading off to your next destination. 

Day 11: Airlie Beach to Townsville + Magnetic Island 

Today you will be driving three hours north to Townsville. 

While there isn’t much to do in the city of Townsville itself, its surroundings have a lot to offer, so when you get there, you’re heading straight onto the car ferry to Magnetic Island. 

Magnetic Island is a tropical island located 20 minutes off the coast of Townsville. Home to 23 bays and beaches, fringing reefs and beautiful wildlife, it’s a must-visit in Queensland. 

What to do and see on Magnetic Island?

When you get to Magnetic Island in the afternoon, check into your accommodation and head to Alma Bay for a swim. With incredibly calm, blue water Alma Bay is the perfect spot for swimming. 

In the evening, head to Picnic Bay to watch the sunset and grab dinner at one of the restaurants lining the beach. 

Where to eat on Magnetic Island? 

Although the island may be small, there are so many fantastic cafes and restaurants to eat at, such as 

• Fruits ‘n’ Scoops
• Scallywags Cafe 
• Saltwater Restaurant Magnetic Island

Where to stay on Magnetic Island? 

• Peppers Blue on Blue Resort Magnetic Island (high-end accommodation) 
• Pure Magnetic (mid-range accommodation)
• Nomads Magnetic Island (low-end accommodation) 

Day 12: Magnetic Island 

Today you will experience the best of what Magnetic Island offers with a half-day Aquascene Charters tour. 

What to do and see on Magnetic Island? 

The half-day Aquascene Charters tour takes you to the best and most secluded bays on Magnetic Island for fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Along the way, the guides will teach you about the island’s history. 

Throughout the day, you’ll visit and swim/snorkel at three different beaches, some of which you can only access by boat!

In the afternoon, once you’re back on land and have had some lunch, hop in your car and drive to the Forts Walk car park. The Forts Walk is the most popular walk on the island as it takes you through the eucalyptus forest (you may see koalas!) and to WWII fortifications that boast 360-degree views of the island. 

The Forts Walk is a must while on Magnetic Island. 

• SOS – Stuffed on Seafood
• Mamma Roma 

Related: This is the best time to visit Australia.

Day 13: Townsville to Atherton Tablelands

Today, catch the early morning ferry back to Townsville to start your four-hour and 20-minute journey to the Atherton Tablelands. 

The Atherton Tablelands has some of the best national parks, hikes and waterfalls in Far North Queensland, making it a must-visit on your road trip. 

What to do and see in the Atherton Tablelands? 

Today you will be driving along the Waterfall Circuit to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. 

The Waterfall Circuit is 100km one way (you can do it on the way to Atherton Tablelands), where you can see the stunning waterfalls of Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls, Ellinjaa Falls and more. 

You will stay in Yungaburra for the night before making your final journey to Cairns. 

Where to eat in the Atherton Tablelands? 

• Skybury Cafe & Roastery
• Yungaburra Pub
• Smokehouse Cafe 

Where to stay in the Atherton Tablelands? 

• Eden House Retreat (high-end accommodation)
• Yungaburra Hotel (mid-range accommodation)
• On The Wallaby (low-end accommodation) 

Day 14: Atherton Tablelands to Cairns 

Today is the last day of your Queensland road trip, which means you’ll be driving the one-hour drive from Yungaburra to Cairns. 

Considered the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, plenty of tours depart from Cairns that take you to the reef. However, there are two islands – Green Island and Fitzroy Island – located off the coast of Cairns- worth visiting for their epic snorkelling opportunities. 

You can choose to spend a few days in Cairns exploring the surrounding region, as it’s not too far from the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world. 

What to do and see in Cairns?

Some of the best things to do and see in and around Cairns include

• A day trip to Green Island or Fitzroy Island
• A day trip to the Great Barrier Reef
• A day trip to the Daintree Rainforest 

Where to eat in Cairns? 

Some of the best places to eat in Cairns include

• The Pier Bar
• Vitalia’s Italian Restaurant 

Where to stay in Cairns? 

• Crystalbrook Flynn (high-end accommodation) 
• Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns (mid-range accommodation) 
• Palm Royale Cairns (low-end accommodation)

Final Thoughts 

As the second-largest state in Australia, there is so much to see and do in Queensland. 

Road-tripping throughout Queensland is the best way to see what the state has to offer, as it allows you to travel slowly and discover places you would never have if you’d flown. 

From tropical islands to jaw-dropping waterfalls and stunning beaches, there is so much to see during a two-week road trip through Queensland.

When will you plan your trip?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Related Posts

The Top 8 Beaches In Australia

• Itineraries

The Perfect 7 Day Slovenia Itinerary

• North America

The Ultimate 3 Day Toronto Itinerary

The Ultimate 3-5 Day Belgium Itinerary

9 Days In France – The Ultimate Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 Week Portugal Itinerary

• South Africa

72 Hours In Cape Town – The Ultimate 3 Day Itinerary

• United States

The Best 2 Week Route 66 Road Trip Itinerary

Queensland coast road trip - Brisbane to Cairns

Spend a week or two exploring the amazing australian tropics on a queensland coast road trip this journey is the perfect way to see some of the country’s most famous sights including the great barrier reef, daintree rainforest, fraser island and sunshine coast., best queensland coast road trip: 9 places you can’t miss.

1. Brisbane

3. Hervey Bay

4. Rockhampton

6. Airlie Beach

7. Townsville

Organise your Queensland coast road trip with Camplify

Why camplify.

• Comprehensive hire insurance
• NRMA roadside assistance
• 24/7 customer support
• All members are verified

Related stories

Brisbane to darwin road trip guide, best road trip around east coast tasmania, discover the best road trips with dogs.

Stay updated

Popular destinations.

• Sunshine coast
• Coffs Harbour
• New South Wales
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Premium Membership
• Managed Services
• Owner damage cover
• GPS tracker
• Hirer damage cover

Help & Support

• Call 02 4075 2000

Stay up to date

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Oceania » Australia » Best Road Trips in Queensland, Australia

Best Road Trips in Queensland, Australia

Ahhh Queensland. Home to the deadliest animals in the world, hot pink slugs and where even hail can kill you.

Relax. I lived in Australia for six years, despite my ophidiophobia. I travelled all around the different states, and I’m still here today. In fact, it was probably some of the best years of my life.

Queensland is home to some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders. Think of swimming in the world’s largest coral reef system with some of the most exotic fish you will ever see, bathing in turquoise warm water on a white sand, picture-perfect beach and crossing the world’s oldest tropical rainforest to discover clear waters cascades. Dreamy, hey…

How do you make sure that you see it all, and at your own pace? I hear you ask. The answer is: going on a road trip. However, with so much to see, it may be hard to plan a road trip itinerary.

No worries mate. In this comprehensive Queensland Road Trip Guide, I’m suggesting four road trip itineraries catering for romantic getaways, family holidays, backpackers and more.

Shall we? Yes, we shall.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Why Roadtrip in Queensland, Australia?

Pacific coast way, the great inland way, the overlander’s way, queensland road trip safety tips, driving in queensland, australia, what to pack for a road trip in queensland, insurance in queensland – continued, final thoughts on the best road trips in queensland.

“Why Queensland?” , you may ask.

Well, plenty of reasons.

I will share my top five reasons with you:

• Weather is amazeballs.  With 300 days of sunshine a year, Queensland has some of the best weather Australia has to offer.
• Phenomenal snorkelling. Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef is a unique experience and you will be mesmerized with what you will get to see. Please, please, please make sure that you wear reef-safe sunscreen though, and that you don’t step on coral.
• Pristine beaches. Whitsundays, among others, have some of the most photogenic beaches in the world.
• Unique wildlife. Some pretty awesome locals live in Queensland. No, I’m not referring to Stevie from Townsville, though I’m sure he’s a super nice bloke. I am referring to koalas, whales, platypus, crocs and tree-kangaroos (yep, it’s a thing).
• Incredible hiking. If you’re a trek avid, Queensland also has world-class walking tracks. Plus, the views you’ll get on top aren’t too shabby. In fact, they’re magnificent.

If the five above points don’t convince you, I am afraid you’re reading the wrong article. If on the other hand, you got as excited as I am as I write this, stay with me, my friend. We’re only starting this journey.

Buckle up, friends. We are going to delve into the best road trips in Queensland along with their must-dos. Yep, I may or may not have invited myself to the party. Don’t mind me. I’ll be like a fly on the wall.

In a nutshell, I have planned 4 epic Queensland road trips for you to choose from:

Pacific Coast Way – 10 days

The great inland way – 8 days, big red – 5 days, the overlander’s way – 5 days.

Kicking off our list with…

• From:  Brisbane
• To:  Cairns
• Total Distance: 1970 km
• Top road trip stops: Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Ingham, Mission Beach, Atherton Tablelands, Cairns

The Pacific Coast Way is a long but spectacular drive. From coastal havens and golden beaches to hinterland towns, this Queensland road trip will surely leave a mark on you. You will meet heaps of backpackers on the Australian East Coast .

Starting in Brisbie, in South East Queensland, and ending in Cairns, in the Tropical North, linger near the stunning Pacific Ocean and discover the rare wildlife the rainforest hosts.

Pack your sunscreen, put your sunnies on, and take in all the splendours of the Pacific Ocean! If you want to experience the ocean at its finest, consider chartering a yacht along the Gold Coast for a day and get out there and explore the reefs.

Road trip highlights: 

• Spot whales in Hervey Bay from July to October
• Take a day trip to snorkel the coral reefs of Lady Elliot
• Stop in Cape Hillsborough National Park where the rainforest meets the reef
• Hop on a ferry to Magnetic Island
• Do whitewater rafting down the Tully River

Pssst!   Need a cheap place to crash in Brisbane before you start your road trip? Check out our guide on  Where to Stay in Brisbane !

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa National Park (2 hours)

Get excited – our awesome Brisbane to Cairns road trip is starting! We’re about to discover the splendours of Queensland and be overwhelmed with its beauty.

We will start with the Sunshine Coast, an impressive stretch of Queensland coastline that extends about 120 km from Brisbane all the way to Rainbow Beach. Golden beaches, green hills and quaint villages are waiting for us.

We’ll leave early-ish to make the most of our day and head north from Brisbane on the Bruce Highway. Our day will end in Noosa National Park, on the Sunshine Coast. If you’re travelling on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a couple of great and affordable hostels in Noosa .

• Best stops: Glass House Mountains, Australia Zoo, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny, Montville, Eumundi, Noosa
• Where to eat: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve café, The Edge Restaurant, Sumi Open Kitchen
• Where to stay:  Nomads Noosa Hostel ($), Caribbean Noosa   ($$$)

Day 2: Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay (2 hours 15 minutes)

Okay, the second part of our Queensland road trip itinerary is to head to Hervey Bay, which is a boat ride away from the popular and idyllic Fraser Island. We’ll leave early to make sure that we can enjoy the day there.

Hervey Bay is a small coastal city which is popular for watching humpback whales from July to November. It’s also the hub for tours to Fraser Island, a little slice of paradise with rainforest habitat, pristine beaches and cute (but fierce) dingoes. There are a couple of amazing hostels in Hervey Bay , making it an even better spot for backpackers on a budget as well.

• Best stops: Rainbow Beach
• Where to eat: Arcobaleno on the Beach in Rainbow Beach, Seaside Cafe Restaurant in Hervey Bay
• Where to stay: Shady Grove B&B ($$), Flashpackers Hervey Bay ($)

Day 3: Fraser Island

Fraser Island really blew my mind. This 123 km long and 23 km wide island is a World Heritage Site with more than 1000 freshwater lakes. The whole island is made of sand, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Australia .

If we’re driving a 4WD, we can take it to Fraser Island and drive around the island, stopping at all the main spots.

If, however, we have a standard vehicle, we won’t be able to drive on the island. We can, however, take a tour and still get to visit all the best spots within a day. Of course, we could also stay one night on the island if we want to take it slow.

If we want to stay on the island, The Beachcamp Eco Retreat is a good spot. Let’s just remember that staying on Fraser Island isn’t cheap. Actually, it’s super expensive.

• Best stops: 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck, The Pinnacles coloured rocks, Indian Head, Champagne Pools, Lake Mackenzie
• Where to eat: Kingfisher Bay Resort
• Where to stay: The Beachcamp Eco Retreat ($$$) if staying on Fraser Island

Day 4: Hervey Bay to 1170 Camping Ground (2 hours 40 minutes)

On day 4, we will spend a relaxing morning, either in Fraser Island or in Hervey Bay, depending on where we spent the night.

When ready to go, we’ll head back on the Pacific Coast Way and drive to 1170 Camping Ground, named after the second landing in Australia of Captain James Cook on the 24th of May 1770.

Near a peaceful, laid back tiny coastal town, the camping site is located in a secluded bay inside Round Hill Headland and features a white sandy beach.

Here, we can paddleboard, surf, bushwalk, visit Lady Musgrave Island, fish or play golf. The good life.

• Things to do: Scooteroo, surf lessons, visit Lady Musgrave Island, walk Captain Cook’s footsteps
• Where to eat: 1770 Marina Cafe
• Where to stay: 1170 Camping Ground ($)

Want the real road trip experience? Bring a  comfortable rooftop tent , save money and camp in some of the best spots in Queensland!

Day 5: 1170 Camping Ground to Airlie Beach (8 hours)

We’ll start the day nice and early and make our way to Airlie Beach, a small tropical town and the gateway to both the 74 wonderful Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

On the way, and if time allows, we’ll stop at Cape Hillsborough National Park, where the reef meets the rainforest.

When we’ll get there in the afternoon, we can either chill out at the Airlie Beach Lagoon, a free, self-chlorinated lagoon with 3 different pools or swim in the ocean at Boathaven Beach. We can also rent a kayak and Salty Dog Sea Kayaking.

If it’s in our budget, flying over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and the world-famous Heart Reef is a must-do. Either go on a one-hour scenic flight or, if we are feeling fancy, a two-hour private helicopter ride.

If we want more privacy, we’ll head to Conway National Park that features secluded beaches, lowland tropical rainforest, mangroves and open forest. Here, we can hike and enjoy the spectacular views of the Whitsunday Passage and islands.

• Things to do: Airlie Beach Lagoon, Conway National Park
• Where to eat: Garuma
• Where to stay: Island Gateway Holiday Park ($), Whitsundays Rainforest Retreat ($$)

For more awesome hostel options in Airlie Beach, check our Best Hostels in Airlie Beach guide!

Day 6: Day Trip in Whitsundays

On day 6, we will take a tour to Whitsundays to make the most of it. Cruise Whitsundays is an eco-certified tour operator in Airlie Beach offering day trips on Hardy Reef in the Great Barrier Reef.

We’ll relax on the sun deck, swim with exotic fish, and dive in the reef.

After a spectacular sunset, we’ll come back to Airlie Beach where we’ll spend the night. If we want to take the Whitsundays experience to the next level, we can book a fancy night in Whitsunday Apartments or Reef View Hotel. Note that it will cost us at least AUD300 for one night.

• Things to do: Birdwatch, Scuba dive, hike to Passage Peak, go sailing
• Where to eat: Hamilton Island Golf Club Restaurant and Bar
• Where to stay: Whitsunday Apartments ($$$) or Reef View Hotel ($$$)

There are obviously loads more accommodation options in Whitsundays. Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Whitsundays !

Day 7: Airlie Beach to Townsville (3 hours)

We’ll go back on the road early in the morning and make our way to Townsville, a gorgeous town with family-friendly attractions. The drive only is a little over 3 hours so we can take it slow.

On the way to Townsville, we’ll stop in Bowen, where we will take a coffee and, if time allows, hike the Mother Beddock Walking Track which only takes around an hour to complete.

Upon arrival, we will visit the little town and take it easy. We’ll need our beauty sleep for tomorrow’s adventures.

• Things to do: climb Castle Hill, visit Peruse Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, go to the Museum of Tropical Queensland
• Where to eat: A Touch of Salt, Summerie’s Thai Restaurant
• Where to stay: Beach House Motel ($$)

Day 8: Magnetic Island

Rise and shine, we’ve got a day of exploring ahead. We will take a ferry to Magnetic Island, just 8km offshore of Townsville. It will take just 20 minutes from the mainland.

Magnetic Island is where you will be able to spot koalas or wallabies, bush walk around the National park or enjoy some watersports at Horseshoe Bay.

We’ll hop from beach to beach, hike around to discover each corner of the island and make friends with wallabies.

Upon our return in Townsville, we’ll explore dinner options along Townsville’s bustling City Lane.

• Things to do: Florence and Radical Bays, Arthur Bay Lookout, Forts Walk, Rocky Bay
• Where to eat: Scallywags, Sandi’s on Magnetic Island
• Where to stay: Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel ($) in Townsville or CStay Holiday Accommodation ($$)

Day 9: Townsville to Mission Beach (3 hours)

Back on the road, and onward to Mission Beach, a beautiful small coastal town that’s worth a detour.

Before leaving, though, we will stop in Paluma Rainforest.

On our way, we will get our caffeine fix in Cardwell, right on the waterfront. If time allows, we’ll visit Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre and immerse ourselves in the Indigenous culture.

We also have the option to do white rafting in Tully River, if we feel adventurous.

We’ll arrive at Mission Beach in the afternoon, strap our hiking boots and trek along the Kennedy Walking Track to land in Dunk Island, where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved drink (with a view).

• Best stops: Paluma rainforest, Mungalla station, Cardwell
• Where to eat: Bingil Bay Cafe
• Where to stay: Jackaroo Treehouse Mission Beach ($$)

Day 10: Mission Beach to Cairns (1 hour 45 minutes)

Ready for our last stretch? Yay, me too! Let’s make it to Cairns, a backpacking piece of heaven .

We’ll opt for the scenic route onto Canecutter way to pass through sugarcane fields and charming forests, before stopping at Paronella Park. There, we’ll visit the grandiose Spanish Castle, and marvel at the Mena Creek Falls. The Canecutter way ends at Kurrimine Beach.

We’ll then stop in Babinda, home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in Australia. We’ll have lunch in Babinda Kool Spot Cafe.

Drive past the silhouette of Walshs Pyramind rising above the historic sugar-milling town of Gordonvale. If we feel like hiking, there’s a 6km return walking track we can take to climb up the summit, where we’ll enjoy 360-degree views.

If we feel Fancy & Frenchie when we arrive in Cairns, we’ll have dinner at C’est Bon Cairns (literal translation for: “It’s Good Cairns”. Must be good then.)

• Best stops: Paronella Park, Babinda, Gordonvale
• Where to eat: Babinda Kool Spot Cafe in Babinda, C’est Bon Cairns in Cairns
• Where to stay: Paradise On The Beach Resort ($$$), Travellers Oasis ($)

WEHOO our EPIC Queensland road trip ends here. Farewell, friends. It’s been real.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

• To: Townsville
• Total distance: 2,267 km
• Estimated time: 8 days
• Top road trip stops:  Hebel, St George, Roma, Injune, Emerald, Clermont, Charters Tower, Townsville

Want to go off the beaten track? Then let’s leave the coast and drive inland through Queensland’s outback. We’ll traverse some of the most uninhabited landscapes and rural towns, steep in history, drive through red sand deserts and gaze at the stars of the night sky.

Driving inland in Queensland is a totally different experience than the coastal drive. It may be a little rough, but has so many unique landscapes to offer as well. Less travelled, there are fewer servos so we’ll have to make sure we have enough gas to make it to the next petrol station.

On this Queensland road trip, we’ll retrace the steps of early explorers, enjoy some local vineyards and get a real taste of the Aussie outback experience. The entire route is fully sealed making it possible to drive with a standard car.

There will be a lot of camping sites on this road trip, so we’ll make sure that we pack a tent or drive a campervan/motorhome.

Roadtrip Highlights: 

• Receive a Totally Tambo toilet paper roll in Tambo
• Paddle on Thompson River
• Explore the Lochern National Parks
• Spend a day on the breath-taking Magnetic Island

Day 1: Brisbane to Goondiwindi (4 hours)

Rise and shine, lovelies!

We’ll leave Brisbane nice and early and make our way to Goondiwindi, a small historic border town 350km away from Brisbane (4 hours drive). We’ll jump onto the M3 heading towards Toowomba, then take the M7 and finally the M2.

M3, M7, M2. Repeat after me. Easy.

In Goondiwindi, we’ll visit the Border Bridge, a historical landmark connecting Queensland and New South Wales.

We’ll also visit the Customs House Museum that displays the history of wool and agriculture farming.

If we haven’t maxed out on museums, we’ll visit the Gunsynd Museum and Statue museum too, a statue to commemorate Gunsynd, a Melbourne Cup champion thoroughbred racehorse and one of Queensland’s top icons. I personally will stay in the car, though, as I don’t support horse races.

• Best stops: Toowoomba
• Where to eat: Lucky Thai Restaurant, Urban Quarter Social Dining + Bar
• Where to stay: Country Roads Motor Inn ($$), Goondiwindi Caravan Park ($), O’Sheas Royal Hotel ($)

Day 2: Goondiwindi to Cunnamulla (5 hours 20 minutes)

On day 2, we will reach Cunnamulla, 495 km away from Goondiwindi. We’ll stop in the typical Queensland rural town of St George for a coffee in Farmhouse Cafe.

Cunnamulla is an outback town where locals celebrate country music with a Cunnamulla Fella Festival each November. The town is very popular for its song Cunnamulla Fella by Slim Dusty who was honoured in the town with a bronze statue of him in the main street.

So what is there to do in Cunnamulla besides having a boogie to some Aussie country music?

Well. There’s an art gallery. Also, there’s a Heritage Trail where one can learn about the town’s opal mining, pastoral, and wool production history.

We’ll find a nice camping spot and will spend the night there.

• Best stops: St George
• Where to eat: Cunnamulla Coffee Shop, Hotel Cunnamulla
• Where to stay: Warrego Riverside Tourist Park ($), Cunnamulla Tourist Park ($), Charlotte Plains ($)

Day 3: Cunnamulla to Tambo (6 hours)

Leaving early, we will drive to Tambo. If time allows, we will stop in Charleville for lunch at The Lucky Elephant Restaurant. Then, we’ll get back on the road.

Tambo is the oldest town in the west. Here, we’ll find cultural history and random traditions.

First thing first, we’ll pop into a local business. In Tambo, it’s tradition to offer a Totally Tambo toilet paper roll to visitors as a gift from the community. It may be heaps random, but we’ll take it because we actually may need it.

Then, we, along with our new family addition (our Totally Tambo toilet paper), will visit the Tambo Teddies Workshops to see how the sheepskin teddy bears are created.

If we’d rather be in nature, we’ll hike the Coolibah Walk that follows the banks of Barcoo where the native trees reach out across the river. Alternatively, we’ll experience the Wilderness Way Self Drive Tour traversing three major river systems. We’ll get to enjoy the sights of native flora and fauna. This area is arguably one of Queensland’s best-kept secrets.

• Best stops:  Charleville
• Where to eat: Fanny Mae’s Cafe, Royal Carrangarra Hotel
• Where to stay: Tambo Mill Caravan Park ($$), Salvator Rosa National Park ($)

Day 4: Tambo to Longreach (3 hours 20 minutes)

Leaving in the morning, we’ll go straight to Longreach.

Longreach is an outback town with around 3000 residents, which is pretty big for the outback. Locals call this town the “heart of the Outback”.

To start with, we can cruise the Thompson River abroad a paddle. Also, the Lily Lagoon is worth the detour.

If we want to learn more about the history and local culture, we’ll head to the Stockman Hall of Fame, a Powerhouse Museum.

If we’re in the mood for a hike, the Inginai Nature Reserve hosts some very pretty walks. And if we’re feeling royal, Camden Park Station is just a ten-minute drive out of town. There, we can visit the royals favourite outback spots: the Queen rolled up to Camden in her Rolls Royce back in 1970. Fancy pants.

Last but not least, we will have dinner at Harrys. Rumours say that this bar, named after Harry Redford, has a very strong evening meals game.

• Best stops: Blackhall, Bacaldine  
• Where to eat: Harry’s Restaurant, Little Star Indian restaurant
• Where to stay: Campground beside Thompson River (FREE)

Day 5: Lochern National Parks (1 hour 40 minutes)

Spending a day in Lochern National Parks is super worth it. The National Park in Australia has 20 km of Thomson River frontage.

Here, we’ll find lots of species from coolibahs, cockatoos, parrots to a new type of turtles, Emmott’s short-necked turtle. Oh, and if we’re lucky, we may come across black-headed python across the road. Cute.

We can also kayak in Broadwater Waterhole, fish or cycle along the park’s habitat drive.

We gotta be self-sufficient and fill up our fuel, bring road trip snacks and water.

• Best things to do: cycling, walks, birdwatching, kayaking, RELAXING
• Where to eat: Bring your own food
• Where to stay: Broadwater Waterhole ($)

Day 6: Lochern National Parks to Hughenden (5 hours 20 minutes)

Get excited! Hughenden is a third of the Australian Dinosaur Trail. Here, we’ll be able to walk into what used to be a giant inland sea where Aussie dinosaurs were roaming around.

We’ll stop at Flinders Discovery Centre to meet Muttaburrasaurus, a seven-metre tall dinosaur replica whose bones were discovered near Muttaburra in 1963. The fossils were preserved due to the dry climate, making rocks. Proud of this, locals launch an annual Hughenden Dinosaur Festival. It takes place in August, so if we’re travelling that month, let’s not miss it please!

Hughenden locals are blessed to be surrounded by four national parks:

• 80km East is White Mountains National Park, known for its contrasting white sandstone structures and blooming wildflowers
• 65km North is Porcupine National Park, boasting breath-taking sandstone gorges
• Further North is Blackbraes National Park, home to native wildlife such as grey kangaroos
• South East is Moorrinya National Park, an idyllic camping oasis

Let’s pick one, and spend the day exploring the region.

After a day spent in Hughenden area, we’ll head to Mount Walker to see the perfect outback sunset.

• Where to eat: FJ Holden Cafe, Cheng’s Chinese Restaurant
• Where to stay: Hughenden Allen Terry Caravan Park ($$)

Day 7: Hughenden to Townsville (4 hours)

This is our last stretch! Let’s make the most out of it.

This road is stunning. The 3-hour drive between Hughenden and Muttaburra really portrays the Australian outback landscapes.

Get ready to see kangaroos jumping around while we drive (let’s be super careful not to hit them, though).

We made it to Townsville! It’s the last stop of our road trip itinerary.

The region has an amazing natural landscape, precious Indigenous history and unique preserved Federation architecture.

If we want to stay in the Townsville region instead, we can head to the Town Common Conservation Park that boasts a natural showcase of wildlife.

Castle Hill walk and Lookout sits right in the centre of its CBD and boasts incredible views over Townsville and its surrounding Cleveland Bay.

In the evening, we’ll walk around The Strand to relax and refill our energies. We’ll also be able to enjoy a bite here.

• Best stops: Muttaburra
• Where to eat: A Touch of Salt, Shaw & Co
• Where to stay: Waters Edge ($$$), Orchid Guest House ($$)

Day 8: Townsville

There are many day trips to take in the Townsville region:

• Day trip 1: The stunning Magnetic Island is only 20 minutes offshore and is well worth the detour.
• Day trip 2: Diving the Yongala Wreck is a unique experience and is considered Australia’s best wreck dive. Expect a 3-hour boat trip from the coast.
• Day trip 3: Taking an Outer Great Barrier Reef Day Trip will be heaps fun. It’s considered one of the World’s Natural Wonders.

We’ll pick one of them, based on what we feel like on the moment. Spontaneity is KEY! (I just made this up, it’s catchy)

Here’s where our Queensland road trip ends. We made it, friends, and what a journey!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

• From: Brisbane
• To:  Birdsville
• Total Distance: 1892 km
• Days: 5 days
• Top road trip stops: Brisbane, Nindigully, Cunnamulla, Noccundra, Innamincka, Birdsville

This Queensland road trip isn’t the most popular one, but it’s probably where we’ll have the most incredible outback experiences in Australia. Also, we won’t bump into too many tourists so if we have tourist-phobia (yep, it’s a thing), this might the right road trip for us.

Queensland’s outback offers rolling landscapes of red hills, endless horizons, vintage pubs and traditional tiny towns with no more than a few hundred residents.

We’ll need to rent a 4WD. This way is a long dusty drive.

If we have a 2WD, we can go through Roma and Windorah instead.

• Have a bevvie in Nindigully Pub
• Camp at the Riverside Park
• Discover the Dig Tree’s history
• Enjoy the Cooper Creek
• Visit the iconic Birdsville Pub

Day 1: Brisbane to Nindigully (5 hours 40 minutes)

Off we go on our epic Queensland quest!

We’ll start off in Brisbane and will make our way to Nindigully, or “The Gully” for the locals. We’ll cross Toowoomba and Goondiwindi along the banks of the Macintyre River.

In Nindigully, we’ll have a drink and/or dinner at Queensland’s oldest pub, Nindigully Pub, where Hugh Jackman played in Paperback Hero. Here, we can try the famous 5.5 kg’s burger on the menu… Though sharing one sounds like a better idea.

• Best stops: Toowoomba, Goondiwindi
• Where to eat: Nindigully pub
• Where to stay: Nindigully pub ($), camp in Moonie River (FREE)

Day 2: Nindigully to Cunnamulla (3 hours 40 minutes)

This stretch is a straight line through the outback. It boasts some of the best wineries in Queensland, such as Riversands Winery. Here, we can enjoy free wine tastings (shotgun Designated Drunk!)

Cunnamulla is a town of 1200 residents, with a library, a pool, museums and more. Compared to other towns you will go through on this road trip, there are several cosy hotels to choose from.

In Cunnamulla, we’ll visit the Robber’s Tree, which has a tragic history. Back in 1880, a robber called Joseph Wells tried to rob the Queensland National Bank. His attempt failed, so he ran off and scampered up in this tree, where he stayed until found. He was the last person to be hung for this type of crimes in Queensland.

• Best stops: Riversands Winery
• Where to eat: Hotel Cunnamulla, Cunnamulla Coffee Shop, Cunnamulla Bakery
• Where to stay: Cunnamulla Riverside Tourist Park ($), Billabong Hotel ($), Warrego Hotel ($$)

Day 3: Cunnamulla to Noccundra (3 hours 40 minutes)

Back on the road again. On our way to Noccundra, near the Wilson River where we can fish.

Treating ourselves during this rough road trip is primordial. Therefore, we’ll also stop at the Artesian Mud Bath in Eulo where we’ll bath in nature’s warm mineral-rich mud for #selfcare.

Then, we’ll take our soft baby skins to Thargomindah, the third city in the world to adopt hydroelectric streets lights, after Paris and London. Who would have thought? Surely not its residents. Here, we’ll grab lunch in Coffee On Dowling.

We’ll stop at the Lake Eyre Basin that covers a sixth of Australia’s landmass (or 1.2 million square km) and take in all its splendour.

• Best stops: Thargomindah, Eulo
• Where to eat: Noccundra Hotel
• Where to stay: Noccundra campsite, Noccundra Hotel

Day 4: Noccundra to Innamincka (4 hours 20 minutes)

We’ll leave early and make our ways to Innamincka, a town with a population of fewer than 50 residents. On our way, we’ll stop at Burke and Wills Dig Tree.

Burke and Wills Dig Tree is extremely remote and located right where Queensland meets South Australia, in the Dig Tree Reserve within Nappa Merrie Station in Queensland’s Bullo Shore. The tree is a little hard to find, but we’re making a good team and will find it in no time 😉

Burke and Wills Dig Tree is an icon in Australia. The story goes like this: in 1860, eighteen men and twenty camels decided to make the first south-north crossing of the continent. Their expedition took over a year and well, they all died from hunger as they ran out of food provisions. However, some of them carved into the trunk of this tree instructions on where to dig to find the food provisions they had hid for Burke and Wills who were coming back from an expedition of their own.

After visiting this national icon, we’ll then keep in driving to reach Innamincka and guess what… We’re now in South Australia. Mind. Blowing.

We can camp, fish, swim and paddle around Innamincka. Kayaks can be hired at the Innamincka Hotel.

• Best stops: The Dig Tree
• Where to eat: Western Star Hotel, Innamincka Hotel, Cooper Creek Homestay
• Where to stay: Western Star Hotel ($$), Innamincka Hotel ($$), Cooper Creek Homestay

Day 5: Innamincka to Birdsville (7 hours)

This drive is dusty. We’ll adventure across sand dunes and vast plains. Much of the road is unsealed. Depending on the season, there might also be lots of yellow and white wildflowers.

On our way, we’ll stop in Cordillo Downs where we will visit the historic curved woolshed made of stone.

Birdsville is home to only 100 residents and has the most remote pub in Australia, the Birdsville Hotel.

• Best stops: Cordillo Downs
• Where to eat: Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville Bakery
• Where to stay: Birdsville Hotel ($$)

Day 6: Big Red

We’ll wake up early and head to the Big Red after a big hearty brekkie at Birdsville Hotel. Big Red is only 35 km from Birdsville.

The Big Red is a majestic sand dune on the edge of Simpson Desert. Standing at 40 meters high, it offers spectacular views of the desert. This is where our road trip ends (well, we kinda have to go all the way back to Brisbie afterwards). Let’s buy a bottle of champagne to celebrate and enjoy it while staring at the sunset. Did I mention I was the Designated Drunk on this trip?

If time allows, we’ll climb up the dune at nighttime to stare at the incredible night sky.

We’ll then head back to Birdsville for dinner and will spend the night there.

• Best things to do: Windorah, Cordillo Downs

PHEW. After this legendary trip, we’re officially friends for life.

• From:  Townsville
• To: Camooweal
• Total distance: 1,097 km
• Estimated time: 5 days
• Top road trip stops: Townsville, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Cloncurry, Mount Isa, Camooweal

The Overlander’s Way will take us through historic towns, dinosaur centres and unique landscapes. In just a few days, we’ll be presented with very different faces of Queensland state.

We’ll get to follow the footsteps of some of Australia’s explorers traversing the Nothern Territory across Queensland, and learn about their stories.

Great news – the roads are fully sealed the entire route, so we don’t need a 4WD to take this road trip.

• Historic Charters Towers
• Porcupine Gorge
• Kronosaurus Korner
• Hard Times Mine
• Underground Hospital and Camooweal Caves

Day 1: Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is absolutely Magnetificent!

Here’s a snapshot of what our day will look like on this little piece of heaven: palm-fringed beaches, overwhelming sunsets, fluffy koalas, amazing snorkel opportunities and adventurous hikes.

As I said – Magnetificient!

To get there, we’ll hop on a ferry from Townsville. The ferry ride is only 20 minutes.

• Best things to do: Florence and Radical Bays, Arthur Bay Lookout, Forts Walk, Rocky Bay

Day 2: Townsville to Charters Towers (1 hour 30 minutes)

This short 90-minute drive will take us back in time.

Charters Tower is arguably one of the prettiest inland towns in Queensland. We’ll find history, heritage, stunning architecture dating from the gold rush in the 1880s.

Charters Tower offers the world-famous Texas Longhorn Safaris Tour and we can also follow the Ghosts of Gold Heritage Trail for some spooky tails (yep, that’s the spirit!)

While we’re here, we can also check out the Burdekin River and Dam, the largest reservoir of water in Australia.

• Where to eat: Peppers Cafe & Catering, Enterprise Hotel
• Where to stay: Big4 Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park ($$), Kernow Charters Towers ($$$)

Day 3: Charters Towers to Hughenden (2 hours 30 minutes)

During this section of the drive, stop at Porcupine Gorge. This huge sandstone canyon is now a dinosaur graveyard.

In Hughenden, we’ll go check out the Muttaburrasaurus, a seven meters replica of the first intact dinosaur found in Australia.

It’s also worth stopping by Flinders Discovery Centre to see all the dinosaur bones and fossils on display.

• Best stops: Porcupine Gorge

Day 4: Hughenden to Richmond (1 hour 15 minutes)

Roarsome!! More dinosaurs in Richmond. Never enough.

This small outback town is best known for its marine fossil discoveries from about 97.5 to 120 million years ago. If we head to the Richmond’s Kronosaurus Korner. For example, we’ll get to meet Minmi, a Richmond Pliosaur.

If we’d rather step back in more recent time, we’ll take a stroll along the Heritage Walk from where we’ll spot some of Richmond’s historic buildings, including the Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre.

And if we’d rather enjoy the present moment instead, we’ll hang by Lake Fred Tritton, where we’ll get the chance to canoe, water ski, sail and swim.

• Where to eat: Treats For Your Table, Mud Hut Hotel
• Where to stay: Lakeview Caravan Park ($), Mud Hut Hotel ($$$)

Day 5: Richmond to Mount Isa (4 hours)

SELF CARE TIME. Let’s enjoy a therapeutic soak in the Artesian Bath House on our way. We deserve it. Then let’s keep rolling, direction Mount Isa.

Mount Isa, also known as the “oasis of the outback”, is nestled among the ochre-red Selwyn Ranges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River. Its romantic landscapes and dramatic sunsets attract visitors each year.

We must stop by the Outback at Isa, where we’ll find a Visitor Information Centre with the experience to book for the Hard Times Mine Tour, an Outback Park, the Isa Experience, the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and a cafe (the last one definitely is the best part).

Otherwise, Lake Moondarra, located 17 km north of the city centre of Mount Isa is a good spot to visit and offers a scenic shoreline drive.

• Best stops: Artesian Bath House
• Where to eat: Burke & Wills Restaurant, Grant’s Cakes & Pies
• Where to stay: Discovery Parks ($)

Day 6: Mount Isa to Camooweal (2 hours)

Before we leave Mount Isa, we’ll visit the underground hospital built during the second world war.

We’ll then drive to Camooweal, the “Gateway to the Northern Territory/Queensland”. The road from Mount Isa we’ll be taking was initially built during the Second World War, and was designed as a link between the southern states and the Northern Territory.

Remember Burke and Wills? The two explorers who perished near the Dig Tree? Well now it all comes together. The explorer William Landsborough was the first European to pass through the Camooweal Area as he was looking for Burke and Wills in 1862. Pastoralists then settled there and Camooweal Town was settled.

Let’s not miss the Camooweal Caves National Park, that features caves and sinkholes from 500 million years ago. That’s way older than Minmi, our Richmond Pliosaur mate…

• Where to eat: Post Office Hotel Motel
• Where to stay: Camooweal Roadhouse & Caravan Park ($), Post Office Hotel Motel ($)

And that’s it, guys! We made it to the end of our road trip! Now, let’s go back to Townsville, shall we?

Even if you’re only going on a Queensland road trip for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get  smote by wrathful angels. As such, you could invest in two types of insurance: regular travel insurance or special rental car insurance .

Some travel insurance providers provide basic vehicular coverage and will cover you in certain circumstances. We’ve put together a roundup of the best travel insurance for backpackers – check it out here , or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads now , our favourite travel insurance provider.

If you want total protection, go with an independent rental insurance company . Most offer excellent coverage at very reasonable rates, more so than the rental car company.

As mentioned, renting a vehicle to explore Queensland is the most logical strategy.

Whether that’s a car, 4WD, campervan or motorhome, the below points will apply. 

Renting a vehicle in Queensland

Renting a vehicle in Australia is super easy and thousands of backpackers do it each year. It’s the easiest way to explore the country, save some money (Australia isn’t cheap, to say the least) and feel as free as a Kookaburra. Queensland, in particular, is super easy to drive: the roads are high quality and well-signed.

To rent a vehicle in Queensland, you will need to have a valid driver’s license to pick up your vehicle – either Australian or an international driving permit.

What’s also worth noting is that you may be charged additional fees on top of your rental daily rate, such as:

• Age surcharge. You need to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle in Australia and you may be asked to pay for an age surcharge if you are between 21 – 25 years old.
• Bond/deposit. You will most likely be asked to pay a deposit (bond) at the rental desk when you’re picking up your vehicle. The amount will vary depending on the vehicle and the rental company altogether. However, in Australia, it generally ranges from $200 – $1000.
• Additional drivers. If you’re not the only one driving, you will need to notify the rental company so they can add any additional drivers on the rental agreement for a small additional fee. It’s super important that you notify them. If you fail to do so and have an accident when someone else was driving, your insurance won’t cover you for the claim.
• Insurance. Rental companies will overcharge you for super basic insurance packages. If you don’t have insurance sorted before you pick up your car, you’re trapped. Don’t take insurance with the rental company. Instead, purchase online independent rental insurance. RentalCover.com quotes reasonable rates for Australia and loads of other destinations.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out!  Use  rentalcars.com  to find the best deals  on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road rules in Queensland

Australia is very strict when it comes to road rules, and Queensland, although a very laid back state, is no exception.

Growing in Belgium, where we didn’t have a government for years, I’ve been conditioned to not take law enforcement too seriously. There was always room for negotiation and flexibility, and I just needed to apologize with a cute startled face to get away with petty infringements (we’re talking not buying a bus ticket, nothing more).

This technique didn’t go down well in Australia. In fact, I had to learn the hard way that it was unacceptable to try to compromise with a police officer. Oops.

Australians don’t joke around with rules. The law is the law.

With that in mind, here’s a summary of the unusual Queensland road rules that are leading to multiple fines each year:

• You will get fined if you increase your speed while being overtaken. Fine: AU$80.
• Don’t use a horn “other than as permitted” (warning another vehicle or animal that you are approaching them) – it’s illegal. Fine: AU$80.
• Don’t hitchhike. Hitchhiking is illegal in Queensland. Fine: AU$30.
• Don’t forget to turn off your direction indicator . Fine: unknown.
• As tempting as it may be, don’t lean your elbow on the window on a hot day. Yep, that’s right – it’s illegal to have any body parts outside of the vehicle. Fine: $298.
• Don’t leave your car unlocked if you are more than three meters away from it. Fine: $40.

On the bright side, it is not illegal to drive in thongs in Queensland! And by thongs, I’m not referring to knickers, but to flip flops (Aussie lingo).

If you’re not careful, Australia’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Ahh, I see you. You’re an insurance geek too. Now we definitely have something in common.

Alright folks, now that you’re here, buckle up and let me answer ALL your Australian rental insurance questions! Whoop-de-doo.

What insurance do I need to be fully covered? 

The only insurance you need to worry about in Australia is the one covering damages to your vehicles. You do not need to worry about Third Party Liability or Personal Accident Insurance as it is included by default and by law in your rental agreement.

If you’re Aussie, Medicare will cover your medical costs. If you’re a visitor, make sure you buy travel insurance to get health insurance.

Okay, so what insurance do I need to cover my vehicle? 

The insurance you will be offered at the rental desk is called the “Excess Waiver”, the “Reduction Liability Waiver” or even sometimes “No Worries Mate”. Rental companies name them differently, but the product offered is the same: it covers the remaining excess (the responsibility you have on the vehicle in case of damage) on your vehicle down to zero.

Don’t buy this product with the rental company. It’s usually super expensive ($20 – $60 per day) and excludes a lot of common damages (windscreens, animal collision, undercarriage, tyres etc). You don’t want to pay a high daily fee + any common damages to your vehicle, do you?

Instead, I’d recommend that you purchase online independent rental insurance, like the one offered by RentalCover.com . At a fraction of the price, you will be covered for ANY type of damage, whether at fault or not.

Will the rental company accept that I don’t purchase their excess waiver? 

Rental company’s sales agents in Australia can be very pushy, as they’re paid on commission. They may tell you that your independent insurance policy isn’t valid, but that’s not true. Just stay firm on your position and refuse their policies.

However, not that they may ask you to place another deposit if you don’t take their policy. The deposit may be held or debited from your credit card and could be up to the amount of the vehicle’s excess ($4k – $10k). Any damage cost would then be deducted from this deposit, but you will just need to make a claim with your independent insurer that will refund you the amount.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered four epic road trips in Queensland, I hope that you’re already packing your bags 🙂

Queensland offers two types of road trips: the coastal type or the outback type. Personally, I can’t choose between both types. While I love the instagrammable views you’ll get on the coastline (generation X much), I also love the lonely, rough vibe the outback offers.

Whichever road you take, I am 100% positive that you will have the time of your life. Wait – I meant, that we will have the time of our lives.

PS: if you’re travelling around Australia, check out our guide on the Best Road Trips in Australia !

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Pacific Coast Way Road Trip, QLD

10-14 Day Journey

Everyone knows that Queensland is the state of sunshine, warm weather, and incredible beaches. We have the perfect road trip along the Pacific Coast which offers that and so much more! Take a break and let us do the planning for you on this 10-14 day journey.

Starting from the South East of Queensland all the way up to the Tropical North discover lush National Parks, rainforests and a stunning coastline which includes the famous Great Barrier Reef. The excitement of knowing that each day will be different will be just the beginning for what’s sure to be a memorable holiday.

Starting off on the Sunshine Coast

What better way to start your trip than escaping to the wide-open spaces that the Sunshine Coast has to offer! A coastline which stretches across 100km and home to pristine beaches and spectacular rural hinterlands. It’s perfect for an action-packed getaway or finding your own stretch of sand on Mooloolaba Beach. Take an easy 20-minute stroll from Mooloolaba Beach to Alexandra Headland where you will find the most picturesque views .  Go on a hike, take a cruise, visit the underwater wonderworld or enjoy a refreshing drink in the hustle and bustle of the busy streets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be close to all the action and come say G’DAY to us at one of our parks in the area.

Nearest G'day Parks: Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park  

Sunshine Coast to Noosa – 30 Minutes

Only 30 minutes down the road and you’ll arrive at Noosa Heads. With an array of local attractions, ranging from the natural beauty of pristine beaches, tranquil rainforests and of course well renowned Hastings Street, bustling with some of the world’s best restaurants and cafes. For boaties, the local ramp is just 800m away, so you’ll easily be able to launch your boat to head out and enjoy the beautiful blue waters surrounding Noosa. Regardless of the style of holiday you’re looking for, Noosa offers the perfect escape.

Noosa to Hervey Bay – 2.5 hours

Visit Australia’s premier Whale Watching destination, Hervey Bay, just two and a half hours from Noosa and watch these gentle giants frolic around right in front of your eyes. If you are visiting between July and October a Whale watching tour is a must, not only can you see these majestic creatures up close, you can even swim along side them and see how big they truly are. Explore a little further and get off the beaten track through the rugged bush land, or visit the jaw dropping Lake Mckenzie, or simply soak up the sunshine on the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island or K’gari. With several parks in this region the options are endless.

Nearest G'day Parks: Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay Fraser Coast Holiday Park   Rainbow Beach Holiday Village   Tin Can Bay Tourist Park

Hervey Bay to Bundaberg – 1.5 hours

Next stop is only an hour and a half away, the sunny Southern Great Barrier Reef region of Bundaberg! Australia’s most famous Bundaberg rum distillery is must do for all tourist, especially spirit lovers. Tours and tastings are offered daily, and there is also an opportunity to blend you own. Other terrific experiences include the intimate Turtle encounter, swim with the Manta Rays at Lady Elliot Island, snorkel and dive on the Great Barrier Reef, or visit the Bert Hinkler Museum. On top of that, there are National Parks, scenic drives, fabulous fishing, food and drink experiences, plus galleries, museums, shopping and exceptional eateries to tempt you. Bundaberg is a destination that deserves ‘top-of-list’ status.

Bundaberg to Gladstone – 2.5 hours

Moving along the Southern Great Barrier Reef, two and a half hours drive from Bundaberg is the town of Gladstone. The perfect oasis filled with multi-coloured sunsets and year-round warm climates. Snorkel through the crystal-clear waters where there is an array of marine life and coral and leave footprints in the white sand alongside those made by turtles. Make your way down the coastline to Tannum Sands and find a water-sports paradise with stand up paddle-boarding, jet-skis, wind surfers and more! Or sit back and put your feet up under the shade of the trees dotted along the shore for those holidaymakers. If you’re searching for true relaxation, this region this is the place to stop and unwind.

Nearest G'day Parks: Captain Cook Holiday Village Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands

Gladstone to Rockhampton/Yeppoon – 1.5 hours

Rockhampton is your next stop, just a quick drive down the coast from Gladstone. A region that offers a modern riverside setting and is home to Australia’s second largest river system, Fitzroy Basin. Begin your adventure with a drive to the peak of Mount Archer for spectacular panoramic views or get up close and personal with crocodiles at Koorana Crocodile Park. Take a trip to the unforgettable Capricorn Coast and a cruise to Great Keppel Island is a must. Getting there is half the fun – coral viewing, fish feeding, snorkelling and swimming. When you arrive, enjoy a bush walk or just soak in the magnificence of Keppel Bay. Head down to the seaside town of Yeppoon, just north of Rockhampton and sit on the harbour for dinner and sundowners whilst overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Nearest G'day Parks: Discovery Parks - Coolwaters Yeppoon Discovery Parks - Rockhampton   Fisherman’s Beach Holiday Park Great Keppel Island Hideaway Southside Holiday Village

Yeppoon to Airlie Beach – 5.5 hours

Pack some snacks for the next drive as we are heading all the way up to Airlie Beach, five and a half hours from Yeppoon. Airlie Beach is known as the gateway for the Whitsundays. It is however, a worthy destination in its own right. A tropical paradise in the rainforest of Conway National Park and the mainland hub of the Whitsundays. There is no shortage of incredible tours surrounding this island, from snorkelling and boat rides to rainforest tours and walking trails it is no wonder this is on most people’s bucket lists. Most day trips on the water include a visit to world famous Whitehaven Beach, named the 2nd best beach in the entire world. Watch the sun set with a drink in hand while you reminisce on the adventures you’ve had so far.

Nearest G'day Parks: Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach Tasman Holiday Parks - Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach to Townsville – 3 hours

Placed in the dry tropics and a sailing trip away from the koalas of Magnetic Island, Townsville is a magnificent town among the palms. The town is your oyster with a holiday itinerary that will leave a sparkle in your eye. Try wreck diving at SS Yongala, follow the city’s street art trail, or go on a bush-to-beach bareback horse riding tour around Horseshoe Bay. The once quiet coastal town has now combined into a modern city making it the ideal place to discover and appreciate the abundance of nature.

Nearest G'day Parks: Coral Coast Tourist Park   Discovery Parks - Towsnville Tasman Holiday Parks - Rollingstone   Townsville Tourist & Lifestyle Village  

Queensland evokes thoughts of beautiful sunny weather and a laid back lifestyle, the ideal combo to indulge in pure holiday bliss and exactly what Cairns has to offer. Some of the must do’s whilst visiting Cairns include the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Kuranda Village. Breathe in the salt air while you explore infinite tropical islands or visit one of the best kept secret of the area, Lake Placid and surrounds. With crystal clear waters, a tropical rainforest environment and situated right near the World Heritage area of the Barron River Gorge National Park, Lake Placid is the perfect choice for those looking for a more peaceful location. From the fun and excitement of Cairns city, through to the peace and tropical tranquillity of Lake Placid, you have everything you need to end this holiday of a lifetime with a bang!

Nearest G'day Parks: First City Caravilla Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat

The Southern Great Barrier Reef prides itself on the quintessential Queensland holiday, so why not hit the road and experience this unforgettable journey.

Choose your parks

Follow us on social media

G'day parks.

G’day Parks is Australia’s leading community of independent caravan and holiday parks. Formerly known as Top Parks, G'day Parks has grown to be the largest network of parks in Australia. With more holiday parks in more places, we deliver unmatched choice and freedom, great accommodation and, of course, a warm and welcoming g’day. Owned by the G’day Group and headquartered in Adelaide, South Australia, G’day Parks invites you to join our tribe and make holiday memories that put a smile in every day.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Privacy Policy

Do not click "Remember Me" when logging in on a shared computer.

This website collects data as you browse. As a part of our commitment to ensuring your comfort level with this arrangement, please indicate your preferences.

You can change these settings at any time from our privacy policy page.

• Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary

For one of the most epic drives in Australia, here is your guide to a Brisbane to Cairns road trip!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today. He has been a journalist for more than 20 years and loves exploring different parts of Australia.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today and has been a journalist for 20 years.

Last updated: September 6, 2022

Each day of the Brisbane to Cairns road trip

Jump down to a particular day - or keep reading for my complete Brisbane to Cairns itinerary.

• Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa • Day 2: Noosa to Hervey Bay • Day 3: Hervey Bay to Bundaberg • Day 4: Bundaberg to Yeppoon • Day 5: Yeppoon to Cape Hillsborough • Day 6: Cape Hillsborough to Airlie Beach • Day 7: Airlie Beach to Townsville • Day 8: Townsville to Mission Beach • Day 9: Mission Beach to Cairns

There’s no doubt that Queensland is pretty epic – and driving up the Queensland coast is one of the best ways to explore the state, with a Brisbane to Cairns road trip taking you to incredible beaches, tropical islands, quirky communities, and a whole lot more!

The drive from Brisbane to Cairns is about 1700 kilometres and takes about 20 hours on the road in total, so you’re going to have to stop at a few places along the way. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing places to stop between Brisbane and Cairns.

As you head north, you start by passing some of Queensland’s best beaches along the Sunshine Coast, before reaching Hervey Bay and Fraser Island. The route then goes through cities like Bundaberg, Rockhampton, and Mackay, before reaching the glittering Whitsundays.

Heading further north, the rainforest starts to appear and the Great Barrier Reef becomes even more of a presence, through Magnetic Island, Mission Beach, and then up into the final destination of Cairns.

There’s certainly no point rushing a Brisbane to Cairns road trip. To be honest, if all you want to do is get between the cities, you’re better off flying. The drive to Cairns should actually be seen as a good opportunity to experience the best of the Queensland coastline.

There’ll be plenty of crocodiles along the way (although you may not see them), plus a few cassowaries. You’ll see kangaroos on the beach, vibrant coral on the reef, and maybe some whales depending on when you’re doing the drive.

And, although the natural beauty of Queensland is important, the Brisbane to Cairns drive is also a good way to learn more about life in the north of Australia, from the sugar cane farmers, the early settlers, and the Indigenous cultures that have been here for thousands of years.

How long does it take to drive from Brisbane to Cairns?

The drive from Brisbane to Cairns is about 1700 kilometres and would take about 20 hours if you just drove straight through. However, most tourists see the advantages in stopping along the way and develop a much longer Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary.

For a holiday driving up the Queensland Coast, it can take anywhere from 4 days to 10 days of actual driving, plus all the extra days to explore the places where you stop and stay a few nights.

Is it worth driving from Brisbane to Cairns?

If you want to see the best of Queensland, then it’s definitely worth driving from Brisbane to Cairns. It’s along this stretch of coast that you’ll find most of Queensland’s natural wonders, plus the scenery between them is beautiful.

There’s also plenty of heritage and cultural attractions on the drive from Brisbane to Cairns, and you’re going to miss most of them if you just fly between the two cities, or don’t take the time to stop regularly along the way.

Where should I stop driving from Brisbane to Cairns?

There are a lot of places to stop along the drive between Brisbane and Cairns, and no set itinerary that everyone follows.

The most popular stops on Brisbane to Cairns road trip are the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Airlie Beach, and Mission Beach. But other good places to stop driving are Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Cape Hillsborough, and Townsville.

Is there a train from Brisbane to Cairns?

Yes, there is a train from Brisbane to Cairns and it’s called The Spirit of Queensland. The train goes five times a week (in each direction) and takes about 24 hours to get between Brisbane and Cairns.

Although the train does stop at quite a few of the main attractions along the Queensland coast, the arrival and departure times can be quite inconvenient, so I wouldn’t advise using the train to try to replicate a road trip from Brisbane to Cairns. But it could be useful if you just wanted to stop at just one or two places along the way (such as Hervey Bay or Airlie Beach).

For every traveller, a road trip between Brisbane and Cairns is going to be slightly different. That’s because you can make as many stops as you want, and take as long as you want.

If you’re in a hurry (but still want to see a few things), you could do the drive to Cairns in a comfortable four days. Some people will take two weeks. Some will take two months!

With this itinerary for a Brisbane to Cairns road trip, I’ve put together a plan that has nine days of driving. But that doesn’t mean your trip will take nine days. You’ll want to stay a couple of nights in at least a few of these places – particularly Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, and Townsville.

So, I would recommend you aim to do the Brisbane to Cairns drive over the course of two weeks. You may even want to add in a couple more stops than just the ones I’ve included (I’ll give you some other options as we go through the details).

Most of the road trip stops that I’ve chosen are because they highlight the best things to do along the Queensland coast. For this reason, you’ll see that some days only have relatively short drives between destinations. Don’t worry. Embrace this. You’ll be grateful for the time you’re not on the road!!

There are also a couple of stops I’ve included for practical reasons, to break up uncomfortably long stretches of driving. There are still things to do at these destinations, but I’ll point them out so you can make a decision about whether you would prefer just to push through and spend more time elsewhere.

You can see the route that I’m going to recommend on the map below:

As you can see, the route is really straightforward – you just keep driving north up the highway! The key to designing the perfect Brisbane to Cairns road trip is about knowing where to stop.

With this itinerary, you’ll be able to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and sleep on a tropical island. There’ll be a rum tasting, and kangaroos on the beach at sunrise. You can take a speedboat to the whitest or white beaches, and four-wheel-drive on the sand amongst the dingoes.

There are so many adventures on this route and it truly is one of the best Australian road trips. So, let’s get into it!

Brisbane – Noosa

2 hours of driving (140 km)

The start of the drive will see you head north out of Brisbane, possibly dealing with some peak hour traffic if you leave in the morning, through the suburbs, and finally out to the highway up to the Sunshine Coast.

This region is popular with Brisbane residents for day trips and weekenders – and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just the proximity, but the variety of things to do, from the lush hinterland, down to the beautiful beaches, and plenty of fresh produce (particularly fruit) along the way.

There are some things to see even before you reach the Sunshine Coast, including the Glass House Mountains and Australia Zoo at Beerwah.

On today’s drive…

Depending on where you want to stay the night, there are quite a few different turn-offs from the main highway you can choose. If you stay on the highway until Woombye, you’ll be able to see the Big Pineapple (great for Aussie road trip photos). And if you continue on to Eumundi, the famous Eumundi Markets are on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Although the name evokes images of beaches, the Sunshine Coast hinterland is just as interesting (in fact, there’s almost more to do). Stroll through quaint villages, find local crafts at the boutique stores, do some tastings with local producers, and settle in for a delicious lunch.

If you’ve got time, do a detour through towns like Maleny and Montville to see this side of the region, with waterfalls and mountain views. I’ve got some specific suggestions of what to do in my story about places to visit on the Sunshine Coast .

Along the beaches of the Sunshine Coast, you are spoiled for choice for towns to stay the night in. Caloundra, Mooloolaba, and Coolum are all good options. But I’m going to suggest you head for Noosa.

Partly it’s so you can explore the region without backtracking to your accommodation – but it’s also because this is the most famous part of the Sunshine Coast and you want to see the best of the best, right?

For the trendy shops of restaurants, head to Hastings Street, or take a dip at Noosa Main Beach. Noosa National Park is particularly nice towards sunset, and there are plenty of water activities from parasailing to jet skiing.

You can find more details in my story about things to do in Noosa .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN NOOSA

As one of the most popular holiday destinations in Queensland, you’re spoiled for choice in Noosa. Staying near the beach is more convenient, but things are a bit cheaper further out.

You’re unlikely to have seen a hostel quite as nice as Bounce Noosa , which feels like a trendy beach club.

With one, two, and three bedroom villas, Ingenia Holidays has plenty of space for the family, who will enjoy the pool and games spaces.

Although the Retreat Beach Houses is a bit out of town, that’s the point, because these bungalows are set amongst forest right on the sand.

Every detail has been considered at the Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort , which is luxurious but still has a casual beach feel.

Noosa – Hervey Bay

2h 20m of driving (190 km)

Leaving the Sunshine Coast, you’ll get your first real taste of rural Queensland, as you drive up through a mainly agricultural part of the state. Cattle farms are one of the main businesses in the region, particularly the further you get from the coast.

My suggested drive for today isn’t too long and takes you to Hervey Bay, which has plenty of things to do in itself, but is probably best known as the launching pad to K’gari (Fraser Island). If you haven’t been before, there are lots of things to do on Fraser Island , and it’s worth factoring that into your road trip plan.

If you’re not interested in Fraser Island or the other Hervey Bay attractions, you do have the option here to skip this stop and continue straight to Bundaberg (which is only a 3h 20m drive from Noosa).

Although today’s drive from Noosa to Hervey Bay is easy to do in one sitting, Gympie is a nice place to stop for a coffee, if you feel like a break.

This heritage town boomed after gold was found nearby in 1867, and you can still see the legacy of this wealth in the buildings of the main street.

As well as wandering through Gympie to see the interesting heritage sites, there’s the Gold Mining Museum , the Woodworks Museum , and the opportunity to do some fossicking yourself at Deep Creek.

Hervey Bay is famous for its whales and this is certainly one of the best places in Australia to do some whale watching , as the giants of the sea play in the protected waters here from July to October.

There are plenty of other things to do in Hervey Bay, though, including boat tours to find turtles, dolphins and dugongs, relaxing on the beaches, or some more active water sports like kayaking or windsurfing.

And, of course, there’s K’gari (Fraser Island) . You can visit Fraser Island from Hervey Bay as a day trip , which is a good way to get a taste of this World Heritage Site. But if you can organise to spend the night over there, you won’t regret it!

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN HERVEY BAY

The accommodation in Hervey Bay feels very beachy (lots of white tile floors), but there’s something for every budget. The nicer hotels tend to be closer to the water.

Set in tranquil tropical gardens, the Woolshed Eco Lodge is the friendliest hostel in town, with private and dorm rooms.

As the name suggests, Main Street Motel is in the middle of town and has large comfortable rooms for a great price.

With two pools and a variety of room sizes, Discovery Parks Fraser Street is a great option for families.

There are beautiful water views at Oaks Hervey Bay , and you’ll also appreciate the lagoon pools and apartment-style rooms.

Hervey Bay – Bundaberg

1h 30m of driving (120 km)

Bundaberg is not traditionally much of a tourist destination, but when you look a bit deeper, you’ll find there’s actually a treasure trove of things to do here. It’s a foodie’s paradise, with a sweet sugar cane heritage – plus you’re right on the tip of the Great Barrier Reef.

As you drive up the coast from Hervey Bay towards North Queensland, it’s worth making a couple of overnight stops to break up the journey and discover some of the variety of the state.

However, particularly if you’re in a hurry, an option here is to skip Bundaberg and continue straight to Rockhampton, about 4h 30m from Hervey Bay.

This is the shortest leg of the Brisbane to Cairns road trip and you probably won’t need to stop along the way for a rest. But… if you have time, I definitely think it’s worth having a look around Childers, rather than driving straight through.

There are lots of things to do in Childers and it’s becoming a bit of a destination in its own right, full of heritage buildings in the main part of town, with local producers on the outskirts – including macadamia farmers, ice cream makers, and even wineries (?!).

There are also a couple of impressive attractions in town – the Flying High Bird Park and Snakes Downunder Reptile Park – which you may want to leave time for.

One of the things Bundaberg is best known for is its rum, and doing a tour of the Bundaberg Rum Distillery is a must when you’re here. Even if you don’t like rum, it’s such an important part of the region’s sugar cane culture.

The turtle sanctuary at Mon Repos is also a highlight of a visit to Bundaberg, and it’s worth booking in to see the turtles laying eggs, or the babies hatching, from November to March.

Bundaberg is also a base to fly over to Lady Elliot Island for a day trip (or overnight stay), or take a cruise to Lady Musgrave Island for your first taste of the Great Barrier Reef.

You can see some more ideas in my story about the best things to do in Bundaberg .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN BUNDABERG

You won’t really find any fancy hotels here, but there’s a solid selection of motels and other friendly accommodation options.

The new capsule-style beds at the Bunk Inn Hostel mean lots more privacy at a fantastic price.

There are lots of motels in Bundaberg, but Golden Palms Motor Inn is clean, comfortable, and has the best value, I reckon.

BED & BREAKFAST

For a more personal experience, the Bluegrass BnB has a warm welcome and fantastic breakfast (but it’s slightly out of town).

SELF-CONTAINED

If you’re travelling as a family or a group, the 2 and 3 bedroom options at Alexandra Apartments give you plenty of space.

Bundaberg – Yeppoon

3h 50m of driving (290 km)

Apologies in advance if this offends anyone, but I think the stretch from Bundaberg to Mackay is the most boring part of the Queensland coast. The reality is that it just doesn’t have any of the iconic landmarks that you’ll find to the south – or particularly to the north.

But, it’s a long drive to do in one day (at least seven hours without stops), so I would recommend spending the night somewhere along the way to have a rest. This is, after all, a holiday, right?

And luckily there is somewhere worth stopping, a bit of a jewel in the Capricorn Coast – the small seaside town of Yeppoon.

This stretch of driving takes you through the fields of sugar cane, with agricultural land dominating the landscape for most of the trip. The coast is a fair way off, so don’t expect any water views.

There is nowhere in particular I would recommend for a stop along the way – these small rural communities each have a bit of personality, so stop when you want and grab a pie from the bakery or pop into the pub for lunch.

Just before Yeppoon, you’ll pass through the commercial hub of Rockhampton. It’s known as Queensland’s beef capital and has a bit of a cowboy feel to it. There are quite a few things to do in Rockhampton if you’re interested, particularly the heritage buildings and the riverfront precinct.

Yeppoon feels like it was made for visitors, a coastal escape from the business-oriented cities and large pastoral areas in the region. For locals and tourists, it offers a gateway to the water.

There’s the enormous lagoon right on the beach, plus the beach itself. There’s fishing, surfing, and other water sports. And a popular excursion is the boat over the Great Keppel Island.

In town, the impressive street art is a bit of a surprise, and there are plenty of good restaurants and cafes (I guess it helps when so much fresh produce is grown in the area). There’s also easy access to some national parks that have fantastic hiking and views.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN YEPPOON

Because it’s such a holiday destination, there are quite a few places to stay in Yeppoon, including some lovely modern hotels.

Even though it’s a hostel, Yeppoon Beachhouse feels more like a holiday home and has a fantastic friendly atmosphere.

For groups and families who want a bit more space, Seaspray Waterfront Holiday Units have a variety of sizes, all with kitchens and beach access.

A boutique makeover has brought a cool design feel to Yeppoon Surfside Motel , with a pool and a great location near the beach and lagoon.

The luxurious apartments at Salt Yeppoon have great views and comfortable modern rooms, with attentive service.

Yeppoon – Cape Hillsborough

4h 30m of driving (380 km)

You can start to feel the climate change as you head into North Queensland and everything gets a bit more tropical, from the rainforest that’s now appearing, to the animals looking a bit more dangerous!

The next major city up the coast that you’ll reach is Mackay and it’s a bit of a hidden gem, with a relaxed vibe and the best collection of art deco buildings in Queensland.

But the two highlights I would recommend in the region are Eungella National Park (where you can see platypus playing), and Cape Hillsborough , where kangaroos gather on the beach at sunrise.

I’ve recommended staying at Cape Hillsborough specifically for this special morning experience, which is a really memorable Australian moment. As the sun begins to rise, a huge group of kangaroos and wallabies will come down to be fed by the rangers, and then hang out on the beach for a while.

It takes places right next to the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park , which is the perfect place to stay. From here, there are also some walks you can do for beautiful views of the region.

If that doesn’t interest you, though, you could spend the night in Mackay instead, or just continue straight through to Airlie Beach, which is only about 1h 30m further on.

Cape Hillsborough – Airlie Beach

1h 40m of driving (130 km)

It’s just a short drive from Cape Hillsborough up to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, and one of the most popular destinations in North Queensland. This is certainly not a stop to skip, unless you’ve done it all before. (And, even then, the Whitsundays always deserve another visit.)

There are lots of different ways to spend your time in the Whitsundays, but the first thing to say is that you’ll need more than a night. At the very least, you’ll want to stay two nights at Airlie Beach so you can do a day excursion out to the islands. You’ll probably find you want even more, though.

Many people also stay overnight out on one of the islands. There are some uber-luxury resorts, which would break the bank for most people, but there are also some affordable options, so don’t be afraid to look for something on Hamilton Island or Long Island.

However long you choose to stay, I’ve got some suggestions here for things to do in Airlie Beach , including boat trips to the islands.

Whitsunday Island is magnificent and is home to the famous Whitehaven Beach, so I recommend heading out there, and this full-day tour is one of the best. A scenic flight out over the reef to see, among other things, Heart Island is a special experience, plus you can hang around the bustling atmosphere of town.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN AIRLIE BEACH

You don’t need to be on one of the islands of the Whitsundays to find beautiful accommodation with a coastal view. There’s plenty here on Airlie Beach.

Set amongst tropical gardens, Nomads Airlie Beach may not be the most modern, but it’s got a fun coastal feel to it.

It’s the friendly welcome that makes Airlie Guest House so popular – but the homely vibe and beautiful views certainly help too.

You’ll have the best of everything at Mirage Whitsundays , with self-contained apartments in one of the most luxurious accommodations.

The location is perfect and the pool is divine at the Coral Sea Marina Resort , which has a luxury – but casual – atmosphere.

Airlie Beach – Townsville

3h 30m of driving (280 km)

By now, you probably have a love/hate relationship with the Bruce Highway, the main route that does just what we’re doing – going from Brisbane to Cairns by road.

This is quite a nice stretch of the Bruce Highway, where you usually tend not to get stuck behind trucks for too long, and there’s quite a lot to see out the window as the road skirts close to the coast, crosses rivers, runs through farms, and even past mountains.

Today’s destination, Townsville is a convenient place to stop – but it also has more to offer than you may expect. It’s also from where you can access Magnetic Island, which is one of my favourite stops on this whole road trip to Cairns!

An hour out of Airlie Beach, you’ll come close to Bowen, and the short detour off the highway to see it is worth the effort.

The main town of Bowen was once planned to be the capital of North Queensland and, although that didn’t eventuate, it still has the wide roads and a few grand buildings. But it’s the beaches that are the highlight here, and you might want to have a dip – or just see them.

I’ve got more details about why you might want to visit in my article about the best things to do in Bowen .

At first glance, Townsville may appear to just be a large commercial hub – which is not a surprise when you consider it’s the largest city in northern Australia. But once you start to explore, you’ll realise there are actually lots of things to do in Townsville .

Head down to The Strand to see the parks, beaches, and heritage along the waterfront. Climb Castle Hill for amazing views from the lookout. Discover the street art on the walls in the CBD.

But the best experience here is to catch the ferry over to Magnetic Island. This peaceful little outcrop has roads connecting some areas, or you can hike between beaches (look out for koalas along the way), or take a boat ride around the coast.

There are heaps of things to do on Magnetic Island and you’ll need at least the whole day there – lots of people like to stay a couple of nights to relax and explore properly.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TOWNSVILLE

I think the best approach is to find accommodation (preferably with a pool) in the centre of Townsville so the main sights are in easy reach. You’ll have to drive to places out of town anyway.

It’s clearly a hostel aimed at the international backpacker market, so Civic Guest House has a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

For an affordable option – but still modern and comfortable – I think Motel on Mitchell is the best value in town.

Known as the Sugar Shaker, the Hotel Grand Chancellor is a Townsville icon and has a rooftop pool with an awesome view.

Recently redeveloped, with beautiful rooms and an incredible pool area, The Ville Resort is the nicest accommodation in Townsville.

Townsville – Mission Beach

3 hours of driving (235 km)

Today, we’re really getting into Far North Queensland, a region that doesn’t have a strict boundary but is even more tropical than the North Queensland area you’ve been in for the past few days.

The rainforest is lush and humid, and there’s less agriculture on the side of the roads. The settlements are further apart and become more remote. You can feel it in the air, and you’ll notice that life slows down even further.

It is possible today to drive all the way to Cairns from Townsville, which is about 4h 30m on the road. But I’m suggesting a stop in Mission Beach because it’s a wonderfully relaxing haven before you get to the big city. Plus, it gives you time to do a few things along the way.

If you have time, you may like to take a long detour into one of the national parks that form the southernmost point of Queensland’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (which stretches over 450 kilometres from Townsville to Cooktown).

First, there’s Paluma Range National Park , with incredible views amongst the thick tropical forest that has rivers cascading down boulders.

Or there’s Girringun National Park , which has the most significant landmark – Wallaman Falls, the longest single-drop waterfall in Australia.

If you have a 4WD, there are tracks that connect the two parks, so you can drive them as a long scenic detour loop. Otherwise, I would suggest Wallaman Falls is best for a 2WD excursion (it’s about a 1h 40m round trip from the turnoff at Ingham).

Mission Beach is how you might imagine a tropical escape. A long sandy stretch with few people on it, palm trees offering shade on one side, and warm turquoise water on the other.

There are a few different villages along the coast at Mission Beach, each close enough to the other that you could walk them if you really had to. And each of them has limited development, so you always feel like you’re far away from the stresses of the world.

There are quite a few things to do at Mission Beach , but many visitors just like to hang at the beach, do a trip over to Dunk Island, and chill at the great cafes. Heading inland into rainforest, you can be a bit more active, if that’s what you’re looking for.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MISSION BEACH

I would recommend being near the beach if you don’t want to be constantly jumping in the car to head to the water or restaurants.

There’s always something happening at the Jackaroo Treehouse , a fun hostel surrounded by rainforest.

You’re likely to see a cassowary in the garden of Licuala Lodge , which has a fabulous location and feels like a home away from home.

For a reasonable price, you can rent Stu’s Lookout , an incredible 4-bedroom house with a modern design and an epic view!

The best resort-style accommodation in town, Castaways Resort has a waterfront location, a lovely pool, and a fantastic restaurant.

Mission Beach – Cairns

It’s the final day of the Brisbane to Cairns drive – and, gosh, how did we get here so soon! After nearly 1700 kilometres, this final stretch is fairly quick, although you may start to hit some traffic heading into Cairns (remember what big cities were like?!).

Although you may want to rush to get to the final destination, there are a few cute things to see along the drive that will make it a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.

As you pass through the town of Innisfail, you may like to stop for a coffee and have a look at the wonderful collection of Art Deco buildings, which paint a charming picture up here in the tropics.

A bit further north, there are Josephine Falls , which are perfect for a swim and to have a look at the beautiful series of waterfalls.

I would recommend stopping at Babinda, which is right on the highway. This delightful little town is famous for the cream buns at the Babinda Bakery .

If you head a bit further up the road to the Babinda Boulders, you can go for a swim in a large natural pool and take a walk along the path for views across the spectacular rapids.

Before you know it, you’re in Cairns. The city is a tourism mecca and there are heaps of things to keep you occupied, even before you head out to the reef.

The city itself has grown up in recent years and there are nice new hotels, trendy bars, and some excellent fine dining. I think you’ll enjoy basing yourself here for a couple of nights.

But, of course, the city is also famous as the base for expeditions to the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest (such as Daintree National Park). I’ve got a list here of the best tours in Cairns , which also include some cool adventure activities like canyoning and white water rafting .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRNS

There are lots of places to stay in Cairns and the nicer ones tend to be closer to the water, but you’ll get great value further out.

You can’t fault the location of Global Backpackers , right on the Esplanade in Cairns, with clean modern rooms and a sociable rooftop.

Because it’s not in the centre of Cairns, Palm Royale offers great value for its large rooms and inviting pool.

With a funky artistic design and cool technology included, Crystalbrook Bailey is a breath of fresh air in Cairns.

My favourite hotel in Cairns, Crystalbrook Riley has luxurious rooms, a waterfront location, and an incredible central pool.

So, as you can see, the Brisbane to Cairns road trip is pretty epic! There are so many amazing places to stop along the way to get amongst the incredible Queensland nature, and meet some of the interesting characters.

As I mentioned at the start, there is some flexibility in this Brisbane to Cairns itinerary, and you can tailor the stops a little depending on what you’re interested in and how long you’ve got. However, if you don’t have to, try not to rush.

I have only described the days when you’re on the road. You’ll definitely want (even need) to stay a couple of nights in some of the destinations to see them properly, so the trip will likely take longer than nine days.

It’s up to you how long you want to spend driving from Brisbane to Cairns, but here is my suggested itinerary if you’ve got two weeks (14 days) to spare.

Final itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Brisbane to Noosa, arriving at lunchtime and spending the afternoon around the area. Day 2: Drive from Noosa to Hervey Bay, stopping at Gympie on the way, and arriving after lunch. Day 3: Take an all-day tour to Fraser Island. Day 4: Drive from Hervey Bay to Bundaberg, stopping at Childers on the way. Explore Bundaberg in the afternoon. Day 5: Drive from Bundaberg to Yeppoon, stopping at Rockhampton on the way. Day 6: Drive from Yeppoon to Cape Hillsborough. Day 7: Spend the morning at Cape Hillsborough then drive to Airlie Beach. See some of the sights around town in the afternoon. Day 8: Do one of the all-day tours around the Whitsundays. Day 9: Drive from Airlie Beach to Townsville, stopping at Bowen on the way. Have a look around Townsville in the afternoon. Day 10: Catch the ferry to Magnetic Island for a full day of exploring. Day 11: Drive from Townsville to Mission Beach, with a detour to Wallaman Falls. Day 12: Spend the day relaxing at Mission Beach, seeing some of the sights on the coast and in the rainforest. Day 13: Drive from Mission Beach to Cairns, stopping at a few places along the way. Day 14: Head out to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns on an all-day boat trip.

I hope all of this helps. Have a great trip!

More Queensland stories

• Places to visit in Queensland
• The best things to do in Brisbane
• Things to do on the Gold Coast
• A guide to the Sunshine Coast
• The best tours in Cairns
• Things to do in Airlie Beach
• How to visit Fraser Island

Follow on facebook:

Subscribe for news and deals:.

top stories:

Coastal Queensland

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Australasia
• coastal-queensland
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Running for over 2500km from the New South Wales border to Australia’s northernmost tip at Cape York, Coastal Queensland contains almost everything that lures visitors to Australia. Set down in the more developed southeastern corner, the state capital Brisbane is a relaxed city with a lively social scene and good work possibilities. South between here and the border, the Gold Coast is Australia’s prime holiday destination, with a reputation founded on some of the country’s best surf – though this now takes second place to a belt of beachfront high-rises, theme parks, and the host of lively bars and nightclubs surrounding Surfers Paradise. An hour inland, the Gold Coast Hinterland’s green heights offer a chain of national parks packed with wildlife and stunning views.

Ayr and around

North of cairns, sailing boat cruises, power cruisers, day-trip dives, liveaboard dive trips, dive schools, the cape york peninsula and torres strait islands, the capricorn coast, the gold coast, mackay and around, magnetic island, the moreton bay islands, national parks in queensland, rockhampton, the sunshine coast, the whitsundays.

North of Brisbane, fruit and vegetable plantations behind the gentle Sunshine Coast benefit from rich volcanic soils and a subtropical climate, overlooked by the spiky, isolated peaks of the Glass House Mountains . Down on the coast, Noosa is a fashionable resort town with more famous surf. Beyond looms Fraser Island , whose surrounding waters afford great views of the annual whale migration and where huge wooded dunes, freshwater lakes and sculpted coloured sands form the backdrop for exciting safaris.

North of Fraser the humidity and temperature begin to rise as you head into the tropics . Though there’s still an ever-narrowing farming strip hugging the coast, the Great Dividing Range edges coastwards as it progresses north, dry at first, but gradually acquiring a green sward which culminates in the steamy, rainforest-draped scenery around Cairns . Along the way are scores of beaches, archipelagos of islands and a further wealth of national parks, some – such as Hinchinbrook Island – with superb walking trails. Those with work visas can also recharge their bank balances along the way by fruit and vegetable picking around the towns of Bundaberg , Bowen , Ayr and Innisfail . Moving north of Cairns, rainforested ranges ultimately give way to the savannah of the huge, triangular Cape York Peninsula , a sparsely populated setting for what is widely regarded as the most rugged 4WD adventure in the country.

Offshore, the Tropical Coast is marked by the appearance of the Great Barrier Reef , among the most extensive coral complexes in the world. The southern reaches out from Bundaberg and 1770 are peppered with sand islands or cays , while further north there’s a wealth of beautiful granite islands between the coast and reef, covered in thick pine forests and fringed in white sand – the pick of which are the Whitsundays near Airlie Beach and Magnetic Island off Townsville. Many of these islands are accessible on day-trips, though some offer everything from campsites to luxury resorts if you fancy a change of pace from tearing up and down the coast. The reef itself can be explored from boat excursions of between a few hours’ and several days’ duration; scuba-divers are well catered for, though there’s plenty of coral to be seen within easy snorkelling range of the surface.

Brief history

In a way, Queensland’s popularity as a holiday hotspot is surprising, as this is perhaps Australia’s most conservative state, lampooned in the past for being slow and regressive. Marked physical and social divisions remain between the densely settled, city-orientated southeastern corner and the large rural remainder. These divisions date back to when Brisbane was chosen as capital on Queensland’s separation from New South Wales in 1859; the city proved an unpopular choice with the northern pioneers, who felt that the government was too far away to understand, or even care about, their needs. These needs centred around the north’s sugar plantations and the use of Solomon Islanders for labour, a practice the government equated with slavery and finally banned in 1872. Ensuing demands for further separation, this time between tropical Queensland and the southeast, never bore fruit, but the remoteness of northern settlements from the capital led to local self-sufficiency, making Queensland far less homogeneous than the other eastern states.

The darker side of this conservatism has seen Queensland endure more than its fair share of extreme or simply dirty politics . During the 1970s and early 1980s, the repressive stranglehold of a strongly conservative National Party government, led by the charismatic and slippery Sir Johannes Bjelke-Petersen (better known as “ Joh ”), did nothing to enhance the state’s image. Despite a predominance of Labor, and now Liberal, governments since his time, state politics still have strong right-wing tendencies.

Change came with the new millennium, however: Labor Premier Peter Beattie served for three successive terms between 2001 and 2007 and was the first state premier to act on the Australia-wide water shortage caused by a decade of poor rainfall, by implementing water-recycling measures for domestic, industrial and agricultural use in 2007. He resigned from politics shortly afterwards, and was succeeded by his deputy, Anna Bligh , who became the State’s first elected female premier in 2009. Although Bligh’s popularity spiked in light of her calm handling of the crises caused by extreme weather events in the summer of 2010–11, it was short-lived. The following year, Bligh’s party lost to the Liberal Party, led by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman; losing all but seven of its parliamentary seats, Labor’s defeat was one of the worst electoral failures in Australia’s history. In response, Bligh quickly resigned as party leader and had quit politics altogether by the start of April 2012.

After coming into power on a high, the Newman Government pledged its focus on rebuilding Queensland’s flailing economy and unveiled aggressive cost-cutting proposals in their first budget. Combined with the defections of three MPs and nepotism scandals within the party, Newman’s popularity quickly waned. By the middle of 2013, the Newman Government were in the doldrums again after the contentious announcement of a 42 percent salary increase for all 89 Queensland MPs, to bring their wages in line with members of the federal House of Representatives, embarrassingly unveiled on the same day as a series of living expenses hikes.

As a prime tourist destination, Queensland’s coast seldom presents accommodation problems, with a good range of everything from budget to upmarket options in most locations. Just be aware that the Easter and Christmas holidays – or even just weekends – can see room shortages and price hikes at popular spots, including at national parks: booking in advance is wise, and may even get you discounted rates.

As for weather , winters are generally dry and pleasant throughout the region, but the summer climate (Dec–April) becomes more oppressive the further north you travel, with the possibility of cyclones bringing torrential rain and devastating storms to the entire Tropical Coast.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Further on up the highway, 115km past Bowen, are the towns of Home Hill and Ayr , separated by a mill, a few kilometres of cane fields and the iron framework of the Burdekin River Bridge . This gaping river, one of the north’s most famous landmarks, is still liable to flood during severe wet seasons, despite having to fight its way across three weirs and a dam.

On the northern side, AYR is a compact farming town that’s fast becoming another popular stop on the farm work trail. The highway – which runs through town as Queen Street – is where you’ll find the bus stop and all essential services.

The Yongala

Ayr’s other attraction is easy access to the wreck of the Yongala , a 109m-long passenger ship that sank with all hands during a cyclone in March 1911. It now lies intact and encrusted in coral in 14–28m of water, and is home to turtles, rays, moray eels and huge schools of barracuda, mackerel and trevally, making for a staggeringly good wreck dive . Yongala Dive run trips for certified divers only.

Be aware that the wreck is in an exposed location, and it’s not much fun diving here if the weather is rough; this is also a demanding site – deep, with strong currents and startlingly big fish – and it’s best not to go unless you’ve dived recently and logged twenty dives or more.

BOWEN , a quiet seafront settlement 60km northwest of Proserpine, was once under consideration as the site of the state capital, but it floundered after Townsville’s foundation. Overlooked and undeveloped, the wide sleepy streets and historic clapboard buildings made Bowen’s town centre the perfect film-set location for the 2008 Baz Luhrmann epic, Australia , standing in as 1930s Darwin. Nothing remains from the mass Hollywood intrusion except for the many tales of almost every resident whose world was briefly turned upside down. Stark first impressions created by the sterile bulk of the saltworks on the highway are offset by a certain small-town charm and some pretty beaches just off to the north. The main attraction for travellers, though, is the prospect of seasonal farm work : Bowen’s mangoes and tomatoes are famous throughout Queensland, and there’s a large floating population of itinerant pickers in town between April and January.

Bowen’s centre overlooks Edgecumbe Bay , with all the shops and services spaced out along broad but empty Herbert Street . The town’s attractive beaches lie a couple of kilometres north of the centre. Queens Beach , which faces north, is sheltered, long and has a stinger net for the jellyfish season, but the best is Horseshoe Bay , small, and hemmed in by some sizeable boulders, with good waters for a swim or snorkel.

CAIRNS was pegged out over the site of a sea-slug fishing camp when gold was found to the north in 1876, though it was the Atherton Tablelands’ tin and timber resources that established the town and kept it ahead of its nearby rival, Port Douglas. The harbour is the focus of the north’s fish and prawn concerns, and tourism began modestly when marlin fishing became popular after World War II. But with the “discovery” of the reef in the 1970s and the appeal of the local climate, tourism snowballed, and high-profile development has now overshadowed the unspoiled, lazy tropical atmosphere that everyone originally came to Cairns to enjoy.

For many visitors primed by hype, this sprawling city falls far short of expectations. However, if you can accept the tourist industry’s shocking intrusiveness and the fact that you’re unlikely to escape the crowds, you’ll find Cairns a convenient base with a great deal on offer, and easy access to the surrounding area – especially the Atherton Tablelands and, naturally, the Great Barrier Reef and islands. Cairns’ strength lies in doing, not seeing: there are few monuments, natural or otherwise.

Aside from visiting the reef , or when you’ve had your fill, there’s a fair amount to see and do within a 30-minute drive of Cairns. Highlights include wallowing in the pristine waters of Crystal Cascades or kitesurfing off Cairns’ quieter northern sandy shores.

Just a couple of hours’ drive north of Cairns on the Cook Highway are the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, the tamed fringes of the Cape York Peninsula. The highway initially runs to Port Douglas and Mossman , a beautiful drive past isolated beaches where hang-gliders patrol the headlands. North of Mossman is the Daintree , Australia’s largest and the world’s oldest surviving stretch of tropical rainforest.

Port Douglas

Massive development in recent years has seen the quaint fishing village of PORT DOUGLAS , an hour north of Cairns, turned into an upmarket tourist hub, with a main street full of boutiques, shopping malls and holidaying hordes. However, the town does have the idyllic Four Mile Beach , along with plenty of distractions to keep you busy for a day or two, and it’s getting to be as good a place as Cairns to pick up a regional tour or dive trip to the reef.

The town comprises a small grid of leafy streets centred around Macrossan Street – which runs between Four Mile Beach and Anzac Park – with the marina a couple of blocks back. Between the end of Macrossan Street and the sea, Anzac Park is the scene of an increasingly busy Sunday-morning market , good for fruit, veggies and souvenirs. Near the park’s jetty is the whitewashed timber church of St Mary’s by the Sea , built after the 1911 cyclone carried off the previous structure.

Out to sea, the vegetated sand cays known as the Low Isles make a good day-trip, with fine snorkelling, a lighthouse and an interpretive centre.

Choosing a dive operator

Vessels to take you to the Reef range from old trawlers to racing yachts and high-speed cruisers; cruises and dive trips last from a day to over a week. All day-trip operators have ticket desks at, and depart from, the Reef Fleet Terminal at the end of Spence Street in Cairns; you can also book through an agent, but either way you should do this at least a day in advance. One way to choose the right boat is simply to check out the price : small, cramped, slow tubs are the cheapest, while roomy, faster catamarans – some venturing to activity-packed pontoons – cost more; to narrow things down further, find out which serves the best food .

The reef cruises and diving listings given here are not mutually exclusive – most outfits offer diving (prices vary wildly – you’ll pay anything from $85–245 for two dives including gear), snorkelling (usually free) or just plain old sailing. Prices can come down by as much as thirty percent during the low seasons (Feb–April & Nov). Dive schools usually run trips in their own boats, primarily to take students on their certification dives – experienced divers may want to avoid these, and should always make their qualifications known to onboard dive staff, who might then be able to arrange something a bit more adventurous. Beware of “ expenses only ” boat trips – there may be a catch. If in doubt, ask a booking office in town if you’re dealing with an authorized, registered operator.

Day-trips cost around $130–210.

0458 426 005, fallareeftrips.com . Reasonably priced day-cruises aboard a 1950s Aussie timber pearl lugger, which leisurely visits two reef locations, including shallow Upolu Cay.

Ocean Spirit Cruises

1300 858 141, oceanspirit.com.au . Large vessel that holds well over a hundred passengers – it sails out to Michaelmas Cay and motors back, ensuring adequate time on the Reef. Great presentation but one of the more expensive sailing trips.

Passions of Paradise

1800 111 346, passions.com.au . Popular with backpackers, this roomy and very stable sail-catamaran cruises out to Paradise Reef and Michaelmas Cay. Great value.

Prices range from $150–220 (day-trips only). Some companies cruise out to their own pontoon, stable moorings ideal for families with toilet facilities and underwater viewing chambers where you can get as wet or stay as dry as you like; dive, snorkel, jump in a glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible vessel, or walk underwater on a “helmet” dive. You can also take a ten-minute helicopter reef flight from all pontoons, or opt to fly in or out one-way by air.

Great Adventures

07 4044 9944, greatadventures.com.au . Trips on a large, fast catamaran to a private reef pontoon, with the option of stopping off at Green Island.

07 4052 8300, downunderdive.com.au . Speedy vessel which runs out to the outer Norman and Hastings reefs; comfortable boat, great crew and fantastic BBQ lunch.

Quicksilver

07 4087 2100, quicksilver-cruises.com . High prices, but also one of the largest, comfiest vessels, docking at its own stable pontoon mooring at the outer Agincourt Reef.

07 4031 1588, reefmagiccruises.com . Speedy catamaran, which spends five hours at the Marine World pontoon, on the outer reef, for snorkelling, diving and glass-bottom-boat trips.

Sunlover Cruises

07 4050 1333, sunlover.com.au . Fast catamaran to a private pontoon at Moore Reef where you spend four hours exploring the outer reef.

Expect to pay $180–280 for two dives, gear rental, food and drink; a third dive generally costs around $20 extra. If you’re snorkelling, prices range from $130–200.

MV Reef-Kist

07 4051 0294, cairnsdive.com.au . Budget dive and snorkel operator visiting Moore and Thetford reefs via Fitzroy Island on a modern 17.5m catamaran.

07 4046 7333, diversden.com.au . Stable, well-equipped catamaran visiting Norma, Saxon and Hastings outer reef sites, with the option of diving three times in the day. Good value.

07 4041 6218, seastarcruises.com.au . Long-established family business with permits for some of the best sections of Hastings Reef and Michaelmas Cay, and a no-crowds policy (max 35 passengers).

Silverswift

07 4044 9944, silverseries.com.au . Large, speedy 29m catamaran visiting Flynn, Pellowe, Milln and/or Thetford outer reef sites with time to get in three dives if you want.

07 4047 9100, tusadive.com . Snazzy new purpose-built vessel holding a maximum of sixty passengers, with sixteen dive sites on its daily itineraries and a chance to visit three of them.

Liveaboard trips last from one night (for snorkelling, cruising or diving) to over a week (for experienced divers), and typically cover the best of the reefs: you’ll get longer in the water, visit a greater variety of sites and also have the opportunity to do night dives. Prices vary seasonally, ranging from $460 for overnight trips, $600 for three days and to up to $3500 for a week, with cheaper rates from February to June. All costs generally include berth and meals, with dives typically included for longer voyages, but not gear rental. For further information and comparisons of various operations, check out Diversion Dive Travel (07 4039 0200, diversiondivetravel.com.au ).

Coral Sea Dreaming

07 4041 1600, coralseadreaming.com.au . Sixteen-metre steel ketch sleeping up to eighteen, for two-day snorkelling and diving trips to Flynn, Milin and Thetford reefs.

07 4053 0500, mikeball.com . Luxury diving with one of Queensland’s best-equipped and longest-running operations; venues include the Cod Hole and Coral Sea sites, with most trips including dives with minke whales.

Spirit of Freedom

07 4047 9150, spiritoffreedom.com.au . Huge 37m vessel with superlative facilities, sailing to Cod Hole, the Ribbons and Coral Sea.

07 4041 1054, rumrunnercairns.com.au . Budget motor sailor sleeping sixteen in basic shared cabins, offering 24-hour outer reef trips and affordable three-day Coral Sea expeditions.

Ask around about what each dive school offers, though training standards in Cairns are uniformly sound. You’ll pay around $440–540 for a budget Open-Water Certification course, diving lesser reefs while training and returning to Cairns each night; and $640–800 for a four- or five-day course using better sites and staying on a liveaboard at the reef for a couple of days doing your certification. The following schools are long-established and have solid reputations; certification dives are either made north at Norman, Hastings and Saxon reefs, or south at Flynn, Moore and Tetford. These dive schools also offer one-day as well as longer liveaboard trips.

121 Abbott St 07 4051 0294, cairnsdive.com.au .

Deep Sea Divers Den

319 Draper St 07 4046 7333, diversden.com.au .

Down Under Dive

287 Draper St 07 4052 8300, downunderdive.com.au .

116 Spence St 07 4031 5255, prodivecairns.com .

Cairns’ major draw is the Great Barrier Reef and with so many cruise or dive options available, choosing one can be daunting. There’s often a lot of chat about the inner reef (closer to the coast, and visited by slower boats), the outer reef (closest to the open sea and the target of most speedy operators) and fringing reef (surrounding Fitzroy and Green islands), but the coral and fishlife at any of them can be either excellent or tragic. The state of Cairns’ coral is the subject of much debate: years of agricultural run-off and recent coral-bleaching events – not to mention the sheer number of visitors – have had a visibly detrimental effect in the most visited areas, though remoter sections tend to be in better condition. Having said that, almost everywhere teems with marine life, ranging from tiny gobies to squid, turtles and big pelagic fish – only seasoned divers might come away disappointed.

The Cape York Peninsula points north towards the Torres Strait and New Guinea, and tackling the rugged tracks and hectic river crossings on the “Trip To The Tip” is an adventure in itself – besides being a means to reach Australia’s northernmost point and the communities at Bamaga and Thursday Island , so different from anywhere else in Australia that they could easily be in another country. But it’s not all four-wheel driving across the savannah: during the dry season the historic settlement of Cooktown , the wetlands at Lakefield National Park and Laura ’s Aboriginal heritage are only a day’s journey from Cairns in any decent vehicle. Given longer, you might get as far as the mining company town of Weipa , but don’t go further without off-road transport; while some have managed to reach the Tip in family sedans, most who try fail miserably.

With thousands making the overland journey between May and October, a breakdown won’t necessarily leave you stranded, but the cost of repairs will make you regret it. Bikers should travel in groups and have off-roading experience. Mobile signal is almost nonexistent (tree trunks or termite mounds are often graffitied to identify locations with mobile signal), so it’s worth considering renting a satellite phone.

You’ll find a few roadhouses (with rooms) and motels along the way, but north of Weipa accommodation on the Cape is mostly limited to camping, and it’s inevitable if you head right to the Tip that one night at least will be spent in the bush. Settlements also supply meals and provisions, but there won’t be much on offer, so take all you can carry. Don’t turn bush campsites into rubbish dumps: take a pack of bin liners and remove all your garbage. Estuarine crocodiles are present throughout the Cape: read the warning under “Wildlife dangers” in Basics. There are few banks , so take enough cash to carry you between points – most roadhouses accept plastic. The RACQ ( racq.com ) has up-to-date information regarding current road conditions; for general tips on off-road driving expeditions, see Basics .

Alcohol restrictions

Beware that alcohol restrictions are in place in nineteen Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander communities in Far North Queensland and Cape York. Depending on where you go, alcohol may be completely banned or limited to an amount or type of alcohol (usually small quantities of wine and mid-strength beer), even if you are just passing through. Limits apply on a per vehicle basis, not per person. If caught, the penalties are huge – up to $42,250 for first-time offenders. For more information, check out qld.gov.au.

Crossing creeks by 4WD

While Cape York’s crocodiles make the standard 4WD procedure of walking creek crossings before driving them potentially dangerous, wherever possible you should make some effort to gauge the water’s depth and find the best route. Never blindly follow others across. Make sure all rescue equipment – shovel, winch, rope, etc – is easy to reach, outside the vehicle. Electrics on petrol engines need to be waterproofed. On deep crossings, block off air inlets to prevent water entering the engine, slacken off the fan belt and cover the radiator grille with a tarpaulin; this diverts water around the engine as long as the vehicle is moving. Select an appropriate gear (changing it in midstream will let water into the clutch) and drive through at walking speed; clear the opposite embankment before stopping again. In deep water, there’s a chance the vehicle might float slightly, and so get pushed off-track by the current – though there’s not much you can do about this. If you stall , switch off the ignition immediately, exit through windows, disconnect the battery (a short might restart the engine) and winch out. Don’t restart the vehicle until you’ve made sure that water hasn’t been sucked in through the air filter – which will destroy the engine.

Views from the volcanic outcrops overlooking the Capricorn Coast , some 40km east of Rockhampton, stretch across graziers’ estates and pineapple plantations to exposed headlands, estuarine mud flats and the Keppel Islands. The coastal townships of Yeppoon and Emu Park , 20km apart and settled by cattle barons in the 1860s, were later adopted by Rockhampton’s elite as places to beat the summer temperatures. Today, they retain a pleasantly dated holiday atmosphere and are relaxing for a few days – besides being much nicer places to stay than Rockhampton. Great Keppel Island is the coast’s main draw, however, accessed from Rosslyn Bay , just south of Yeppoon.

Beneath a jagged skyline shaped by dozens of high-rise beachfront apartment blocks, the Gold Coast is Australia’s Miami Beach or Costa del Sol, a striking contrast to Brisbane, only an hour to the north. The coast forms a virtually unbroken beach 40km long, from South Stradbroke Island past Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads to the New South Wales border at Coolangatta . The beaches swarm with bathers and board-riders all year round: surfing blossomed here in the 1930s and the key surf beaches at Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads and South Stradbroke still pull daily crowds of veterans and novices.

In recent years, other attractions have sprung up, notably the club and party scene centred on Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, and several action-packed theme parks , domestic holiday blackspots mostly based about 15km northwest of the town. Aggressively superficial, Surfers is not the place for peace and quiet, but its sheer brashness can be fun for a couple of days. There’s little variation on the beach and nightclub scene, however, and if you’re concerned this will leave you jaded, bored or broke, you’re better off avoiding this corner of the state altogether.

With around three hundred days of sunshine each year there’s little “off-season” on the Gold Coast. Rain can, however, fall at any time during the year, including midwinter – when it’s usually dry in the rest of the state – but even if the crowds do thin out a little, they reappear in time for the Gold Coast Indy car race in October and then continue to swell, peaking over Christmas and New Year. The end of the school year in mid-November also heralds the phenomenon that is Schoolies Week , when thousands of high-school leavers from across the country ditch exam rooms and flock to Surfers for a few days of hard partying, a rite of passage that causes an annual budget-accommodation crisis.

Surfing the Gold Coast

As locals will tell you, the Gold Coast has some of the best surfing beaches in the world. In terms of consistency this might be true – on any given day there will be good surf somewhere along the coast – with 200m-long sand-bottom point breaks and rideable waves peaking at about 4m in prime conditions.

The coast is known for its barrels , particularly during the summer storm season when the winds shift around to the north; in winter the swell is smaller but more reliable, making it easier to learn to surf. A rule of thumb for finding the best surf is to follow the wind : head to the north end of the coast when the wind blows from the north and the south when it comes from the south. Generally, you’ll find the best swell along the southern beaches, and on South Stradbroke Island. Sea temperatures range between 26°C in December and 17°C in June, so a 2–3mm wet suit is adequate. Hard-core surfies come for Christmas and the cyclone season, though spring is usually the busiest time. On the subject of general safety , all beaches as far north as Surfers are patrolled – look for the signs – and while sharks might worry you, more commonplace hostility is likely to come from the local surfies, who form tight-knit cliques with very protective attitudes towards their patches.

Competitions or events are held somewhere along the coast on most weekends, advertised through local surf shops.

The Gold Coast Hinterland

Beginning around 30km inland from the coast’s jangling excesses, the Gold Coast Hinterland is a mountainous, rainforested plateau encompassing a series of beautifully wild national parks , all packed with scenery, animals and birds. The pick of the bunch is Green Mountain at Lamington National Park , with atmospheric hiking trails through beech forest and a stunning density of birdlife. Tamborine Mountain ’s less rugged walking tracks and country “villages” also provide a relaxing weekend escape, while waterfalls in Springbrook National Park make for an easy day-trip. Access is by tour bus from Brisbane and the Gold Coast but to explore to any degree you’ll need your own vehicle, which will also work out the cheapest option for a group. If you’re driving , carry a good road map, as signposts are few and far between – all places are reached off the Pacific Highway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Weather ranges from very wet in summer (when there are leeches in abundance and some hiking trails are closed) to fairly cool and dry in winter, though rain is a year-round possibility. If you’re planning to hike , you’ll need good footwear for the slippery paths, although trails are well marked. Accommodation , which is best booked in advance, is in resorts, motels and campsites; if you’re on a tight budget bring a tent . You’ll need a fuel stove if you’re camping, as collecting firewood in national parks is forbidden; barbecues and wood are often supplied on sites, however.

Some 360km north of Rockhampton along a famously unexciting stretch of Highway 1, the fertile Pioneer Valley makes the MACKAY area a welcome break from the otherwise dry country between Bundaberg and Townsville. Despite encounters with aggressive Juipera Aborigines, John Mackay was impressed enough to settle the valley in 1861, and within four years the city was founded and the first sugar-cane plantations were established. Sugar remains the main industry today, though the coal mines out west in the Bowen Basin have forced Mackay to become a service centre, and its dreary parade of motel accommodation is usually full with casual workers and travelling business people.

Sugar cane on the Tropical Coast

Sugar cane , grown in an almost continuous belt between Bundaberg and Mossman, north of Cairns, is the Tropical Coast’s economic pillar of strength. Introduced in the 1860s, the crop subtly undermined the racial ideals of British colonialists when farmers, planning a system along the lines of the southern United States, employed Kanakas – Solomon Islanders – to work the plantations. Though only indentured for a few years, and theoretically given wages and passage home when their term expired, Kanakas on plantations suffered greatly from unfamiliar diseases, while the recruiting methods used by “ Blackbirder ” traders were at best dubious and often slipped into wholesale kidnapping. Growing white unemployment and nationalism through the 1880s eventually forced the government to ban blackbirding and repatriate the islanders. Those allowed to stay were joined over the next fifty years by immigrants from Italy and Malta, who mostly settled in the far north and today form large communities scattered between Mackay and Cairns.

After cane has been planted in November, the land is quickly covered by a blanket of dusky green. Before cutting, seven months later, the fields are traditionally fired to burn off leaves and maximize sugar content – though the practice is dying out. Cane fires often take place at dusk and are as photogenic as they are brief; the best way to be at the right place at the right time is to ask at a mill. Cut cane is then transported to the mills along a rambling rail network. The mills themselves are incredible buildings, with machinery looming out of makeshift walls and giant pipes that belch out steam around the clock when the mill is in operation. Cane is juiced for raw sugar or molasses, as the market dictates; crushed fibre becomes fuel for the boilers that sustain the process; and ash is returned to the fields as fertilizer.

Another island named by Captain Cook in 1770 – after his compass played up as he sailed past – Magnetic Island is a beautiful, triangular granite core 12km from Townsville. There’s a lot to be said for a trip here: lounging on a beach, swimming over coral, bouncing around in a moke from one roadside lookout to another, and enjoying the sea breeze and the island’s vivid colours. Small enough to drive around in half a day, but large enough to harbour several small settlements, Magnetic Island’s accommodation and transfer costs are considerably lower than on many of Queensland’s other islands, and if you’ve ever wanted to spot a koala in the wild, this could be your chance – they’re often seen wedged into gum trees up in the northeast corner of the island.

Seen from the sea, the island’s apex, Mount Cook , hovers above eucalypt woods variegated with patches of darker green vine forest. The north and east coasts are pinched into shallow sandy bays punctuated by granite headlands and coral reefs, while the western part of the island is flatter and edged with mangroves. A little less than half of the island is national park, with the settlements of Picnic Bay , Nelly Bay , Arcadia and Horseshoe Bay dotted along the east coast. Shops and supplies are available on the island, so there’s no need to bring anything with you.

Offshore from Brisbane are the shallow waters of Moreton Bay , famous throughout Australia as the home of the unfortunately named Moreton Bay Bug, which is actually a small, delicious lobster-like crustacean. The largest of the bay’s islands, Moreton and North Stradbroke , are generously endowed with sand dunes and beaches, and are just the right distance from the city to make their beaches accessible but seldom crowded. The island of St Helena is not somewhere you’d visit for sun and surf, but its prison ruins recall the convict era and make for an interesting day-trip. In the bay itself, look for dolphins, dugong (sea cows) and humpback whales , which pass by in winter en route to their calving grounds up north.

National parks are run by Queensland’s Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing (NPRSR). Their excellent website ( nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks ) has up-to-date information on walking trails, camping, vehicle access, seasonal closures and other topics of interest to hikers, drivers and bushcampers. Unlike other states, all of Queensland’s parks are free to enter, but in a few cases hiking or vehicle permits must be obtained in advance, either online, over the phone or from a Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) office (locations, opening times and current fees are listed on the website). Hiking permits are required for trails on which numbers are restricted, notably Hinchinbrook Island’s Thorsborne Trail. You’ll need a vehicle permit to take a car across to Bribie Island, Cooloola, Moreton Island or Fraser Island.

It’s possible to camp in most national parks. Facilities vary a great deal – some campsites have cooking and washing facilities, while others require you to be totally self-sufficient. Campsite fees are fixed at $5.45 per person per night and usually payable in advance by phone, online or at a nearby QPWS office or ranger station. You’ll receive a booking number and a printable camping tag (if purchased online). When paying camping fees in advance, you can choose between specific slots – required if you’re tackling any of Queensland’s Great Walks – or general-purpose credits that allow you to fine-tune your itinerary later.

Straddling the Tropic of Capricorn, ROCKHAMPTON was founded after a false goldrush in 1858 left hundreds of miners stranded at a depot 40km inland on the banks of the sluggish Fitzroy River , and their rough camp was adopted by local stockmen as a convenient port. The iron trelliswork and sandstone buildings fronting the river recall the balmy 1890s, when money was pouring into the city from a prosperous cattle industry and nearby gold and copper mines; today Rockhampton feels a bit despondent – the mines have closed, the beef industry is down in the dumps and the summers, unrelieved by coastal breezes, are appallingly humid. Bearing this in mind, the city is best seen as a springboard for the adjacent Capricorn Coast.

The city is fairly small and easy to navigate. Divided by the Fitzroy River, services are clustered directly south of the Fitzroy Bridge along Quay and East streets, and the Bruce Highway runs right through town past two pairs of fibreglass bulls (repeatedly “de-balled” by pranksters).

The Tropic Marker , 3km from the river at Rockhampton’s southern entrance, is just a spire informing you of your position at 23˚ 26’ 30” S, backed by a small visitor centre.

The Sunshine Coast , stretching north of Brisbane to Noosa, is a mild-mannered counterpart to the Gold Coast. The larger towns are rather bland, but there’s striking scenery at the Glass House Mountains , good beaches and surf at Maloolaba and Maroochydore , and upmarket beach life at Noosa . Though you’ll find the hinterland far tamer than that behind the Gold Coast, it still has some pleasant landscapes and scattered hamlets rife with Devonshire cream teas and weekend markets.

Glass House Mountains National Park

To the Kabi Aborigines, these 11 dramatic, isolated pinnacles jutting out of a flat plain, visible as far away as Brisbane, are the petrified forms of a family fleeing the incoming tide, though their current name was bestowed by Captain Cook because of their “shape and elevation” – a resemblance that’s obscure today. The peaks themselves vary enormously: some are rounded and fairly easy to scale, while a couple have vertical faces and sharp spires requiring competent climbing skills. It’s worth conquering at least one of the easier peaks, as the views are superb: Beerburrum , overlooking the township of the same name, and Ngungun , near the Glass House Mountains township, are fairly easy to climb, with well-used tracks that shouldn’t take more than two hours return; the latter’s views and scenery outclass some of the tougher peaks, though the lower parts of the track are steep and slippery. Tibberoowuccum , a small peak at 220m just outside the national-park boundary, must be climbed from the northwest, with access from the car park off Marsh’s Road. The taller mountains – Tibrogargan and Coonowrin – are at best tricky, and should be attempted only by experienced climbers.

The exclusive end of the Sunshine Coast and an established celebrity “des-res” area, NOOSA is dominated by an enviably beautiful headland, defined by the mouth of the placid Noosa River and a strip of beach to the southeast. Popular since surfers first came in the 1960s to ride the fierce waves around the headland, the setting is also a haven for gourmets, boating types and conservationists. Beach aside, there’s also a tiny national park with beautiful coastal walks where you’ll almost certainly see koalas , a couple of shallow lakes just north of town and beyond, the biodiverse Noosa River Wetlands , offering good paddling potential.

Regional capital TOWNSVILLE sprawls around a broad spit of land between the isolated hump of Castle Hill and swampy Ross Creek. Industrial in make-up, the town has a rough edge and an air of racial tension. While most travellers skip town altogether and head straight out to the beaches of laidback Magnetic Island , just offshore, the city does have its moments: there’s a visible maritime history; long sea views from the Strand promenade; and the muggy, salty evening air and old pile houses on the surrounding hills, which mark out Townsville as the coast’s first real tropical city.

Townsville was founded in 1864 by John Melton Black and Robert Towns, entrepreneurs who felt that a settlement was needed for northern stockmen who couldn’t reach Bowen when the Burdekin River was in flood. Despite an inferior harbour, the town soon outstripped Bowen in terms of both size and prosperity, its growth accelerated by gold finds inland at Ravenswood and Charters Towers. Today, it’s the gateway to the far north and transit point for routes west to Mount Isa and the Northern Territory; it’s also an important military centre, seat of a university and home to substantial Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal communities.

The city itself is quite easy to navigate. The centre is roughly triangular and hemmed in by Cleveland Bay to the north, Ross Creek to the south and Castle Hill to the west. Following the north bank of Ross Creek, Flinders Street is the main drag, sectioned into a downtown pedestrian mall before running its last 500m as Flinders Street East .

The Whitsunday Islands look just like the granite mountain peaks they once were before rising sea levels cut them off from the mainland six thousand years ago. They were seasonally inhabited by the Ngaro Aborigines when Captain Cook sailed through in 1770; he proceeded to name the area after the day he arrived, and various locations after his expedition’s sponsors. Today, dense green pine forests, vivid blue water and roughly contoured coastlines give the 74 islands instant appeal, and the surrounding seas bustle with yachts and cruisers.

Airlie Beach, around 149km north of Mackay via the workaday sugar town of Proserpine, is the gateway to the islands. Despite an attractive setting, nobody comes here to spend time in town – it’s just a place to be while deciding which island to visit. Island ferries generally leave from Shutehaven (aka Shute Harbour), 10km on from Airlie past Cape Conway National Park. Other cruises leave from Abel Point Marina in Cannonvale, a sprawling community lying in the wooded shadows of the Conway Range, just around the headland from Airlie Beach.

Airlie Beach and around

Buzzing with backpackers, AIRLIE BEACH is nestled between the sea and a hillside covered in apartment blocks, with all services crammed into one short stretch of Shute Harbour Road and the 100m-long Esplanade . Despite the name, Airlie Beach has only a couple of gritty stretches of sand, which get covered at high tide – though the view of the deep turquoise bay, dotted with yachts and cruisers, is gorgeous. To make up the shortfall, there’s a free, open-air landscaped pool between Shute Harbour Road and the sea, complete with showers, changing rooms, picnic hotplates, benches, emerald lawns and even a little sand. From here, a boardwalk skirts around the headland to Abel Point Marina.

The Whitsunday Islands

Resorts first opened here in the 1930s and now number eight, but the majority of islands are still undeveloped national parks, with campsites on seventeen of them. Resorts aside, the few islands left in private hands are mainly uninhabited and largely the domain of local yachties. Those covered here all have regular connections to the mainland. Don’t miss the chance to whale watch if you’re here between June and September, when humpbacks arrive from their Antarctic wintering grounds to give birth and raise their calves before heading south again.

Whitsunday Island

The largest island in the group, National Parks-run Whitsunday Island , is also one of the most enjoyable. Its east coast is home to the 5km-long Whitehaven Beach , easily the finest in all the islands, and on the agenda of just about every cruise boat in the region. Blindingly white, and still clean despite the numbers of day-trippers and campers, it’s a beautiful spot with blissfully little to do. The headland off the southern end of the beach facing Haslewood Island is the best place for snorkelling. On the beach’s northern end, a short track winds up to popular Hill Inlet Lookout for keenly photographed views of the sand-ridden bay.

Over on Whitsunday’s west side, Cid Harbour is a quieter hideaway that lacks a great beach but instead enjoys a backdrop of giant granite boulders and tropical forests, with several more campsites above coral and pebble shingle. Dugong Beach is the nicest, sheltered under the protective arms and buttressed roots of giant trees; from here you can walk along the narrow hill paths to another campsite at Sawmill Beach.

Hook Island

Directly north of Whitsunday, and pretty similar in appearance, Hook Island is the second largest in the group. Cruises sometimes pull into southern Nara Inlet for a look at the Aboriginal paintings on the roof of a small cave above a tiny shingle beach. Though not dramatic in scale or design, the art is significant for its net patterns, which are otherwise found only at central highland sites such as Carnarvon Gorge. On the rocks below the cave is more recent graffiti, left by boat crews over the last thirty years.

Snorkelling on the reef directly in front of Long Island’s resort is a must; snorkelling gear and surf skis are free (with deposit) to guests. The water is cloudy on large tides, but the coral outcrops are all in fairly good condition and there’s plenty of life around, from flatworms to morays and parrotfish. Day-cruises run from Airlie to the snorkelling spots and visit the top-rate fringing coral at Manta Ray Bay , Langford Reef and Butterfly Bay , on the northern and northeastern tips of the island – visibility can be poor here, but on a good day these sites offer some of the best diving in the Whitsundays.

Hayman Island

The extremely high price of accommodation at Hayman pales into insignificance when compared with the resort’s building costs, which topped $300 million. Guests indulge in lush rooms, the best of which have extravagant antique furnishings, and staff move about through underground tunnels so that they don’t get in the way. Public access is restricted to just a couple of luxury tour operators although cruises and some dive-trips stop off for a look at the coral off Blue Pearl Bay – which isn’t actually that exciting – on the island’s west coast.

The Molles and nearby islands

South Molle Island was a source of fine-grained stone for Ngaro Aborigines, a unique material for the tools that have been found on other islands and may help in mapping trade routes. A series of fabulous coastal walking tracks crisscross the island, including one that leads off from behind the nine-hole golf course through gum trees and light forest, encompassing vistas of the islands from the top of Spion Kop and Mount Jeffreys, and on to some quiet beaches at the south end.

Daydream Island is little more than a tiny wooded rise between South Molle and the mainland, with a narrow coarse-sand beach running the length of the east side, and coral to snorkel over at the north end.

Tiny Planton , Tancred and Denman islands are just offshore from South Molle – with no facilities and limited camping at the National Parks sites here, they’re about as isolated as you’ll get in the Whitsundays. All three are surrounded by reef, but be careful of strong currents.

Long Island

Long Island is exactly that, being not much more than a narrow, 10km ribbon almost separated from the mainland forests by a 500m-wide channel. It has some fabulous beaches however, and there are a few looping hikes through the rainforest to Sandy Bay and up Humpy Point .

Hamilton Island

With a large marina, an airstrip, tons of motorized sports and several high-rise apartment towers, Hamilton Island is the only brazenly commercial spot on the islands. Privately owned, its businesses operate under a lease: development includes a quaint colonial waterfront with bank, post office, bakery, nightclub, a handful of overpriced restaurants and four hotels that fall under the umbrella of Hamilton Island Resort , plus many holiday homes. The twin towers of Reef View Hotel loom over the east beach complex, and the best view of the whole area is from one of its external glass lifts , which run up to penthouse level. To explore the island, you can rent a motorized dinghy or a golf buggy to ride around the residential roads twisting along the northern peninsula. The best option, though, is the well-used walking track to the 239m-high Passage Peak, which offers the finest 360-degree panorama in the Whitsundays.

Discover more places in Australia

• The Atherton Tablelands
• The Fraser Coast
• North of Townsville
• The Southern Reef

The Rough Guides to Australia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Australia?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, queensland itinerary: a 10-day road trip itinerary to queensland, australia.

Living in Singapore means it’s near impossible for me to drive a car, as the cost to do so is very expensive. As such, I don’t own a car or get many opportunities to be in private cars very often. I used to live in Los Angeles a long time ago where cars are cheaper and essential, but I was starting to forget what it feels like to be parking your own car, leaving your stuff in a car, navigating through freeways… little things like that.

I went on a 10-day road trip to Queensland with Cheaptickets.sg and Queensland Tourism Board . This post details the experience and sights to visit in Queensland, with the starting point of Brisbane, that you can do within 10 days.

Most importantly for me personally, this trip was a welcome refresher on how it’s like having your own a car!

Queensland Road Trip Overview

The sponsored portion of the trip actually ended after 7 days, but we decided to extend through the weekend at our own expense. Why? Here is the thing that most people might not realize: Australia is a huge country. It wasn’t until I took a trip that spans from North to South of Australia that I realized just how massive it is!

Even though we went for 10 days and drove around pretty much every single day, I feel that we had barely scratched the surface of Queensland, let alone Australia. If you zoom out on our itinerary map below, you’ll see that we only managed to cover a tiny fraction of Queensland. But… I do feel we made use of our time very well, and managed to see very beautiful sights throughout the trip.

Weather in Queensland

The best time to visit Queensland is during autumn, which is March to May. I went in April and the weather was perfect! We experienced mostly sunny days with moderate temperature, though it can get chilly on some nights. Bring a light jacket or a hoodie for night walks. If you are planning to go to the mountains, having an insect repellent would also help.

Cash Management in Australia

In Australia, you can use your credit card pretty much everywhere. I didn’t use cash for most of my trips there. However, if you prefer to transact in cash, then exchange your money before the trip. Do NOT exchange your money in Australia especially at the Airport. They generally don’t give you a good exchange rate and sometimes applies a fee for the transaction – check out this article for horror stories .

My friend tried to exchange AUD to SGD in Sydney Airport and was given a rate of $1.43 when the going rate was $1.04. His A$163 became S$115 when it should have been S$155. I know as a general rule you are not supposed to change currency in airports, but to his defense, we’ve changed currencies in other airports and was not ripped off as badly as in Australia.

General Tips for driving in Australia

• Rent a car and arrange to pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. Saves you tons of time!
• Have an International Driver License with at least a month validity.
• Keep to the speed limit! I have been told the Australian police is very strict on speeding.
• Fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you.
• Most businesses (except restaurants) are closed by 4-5 pm. Yes, even grocery stores, so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car. Something like this is perfect. You’ll be driving a lot, so you’ll want to use your phone for music, GPS and research and that stuff will eat into your battery.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh . This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

Alright, without further ado – let’s jump into the actual travels! And, as I am writing this, I realized there are so much to see and do in each region so I will be writing them in separate posts.

10-day Queensland Road Trip Itinerary

Here is how our road trip looked like on the map:

🗺 Save this map to your phone!  If you are a Google user, click on the image of the map above. The map will then be saved to your “Recent” maps viewed.  Click here for instructions on how to view the map later . It will work from your phone too.

We started out by flying from Singapore to Brisbane. It was an easy 7-hour direct flight with Emirates, my favorite airline (after Singapore Airlines of course). We flew red-eye since 7 hours flight is enough time for sleeping and we would land at 8am in Brisbane.

Here’s our 10-day Queensland Road Trip Itinerary:

• Gold Coast (3 days)
• Brisbane (1 day)
• Sunshine Coast (1 day)
• Noosa (1 day)
• Fraser Island (1 day)
• Back to Sunshine Coast (1 day)
• Back to Brisbane (1 day)
• Fly back to Singapore (1 day)

As there are so much to do in Queensland, I have separated the list of things I did in each city/region:

1. Gold Coast (3 Days)

Gold Coast is a major city in Queensland. It’s located only an hour drive south of Brisbane, making it very accessible from Singapore and other countries. Here is my Gold Coast post .

2. Brisbane (2 day)

Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, and one of the major cities in Australia. It’s the gateway into Queensland as you’d probably be flying into Brisbane if you’re coming from an international destination. You can walk along the Southbank cultural area – there are plenty of museums to check out, my favorite is the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA).

3. Sunshine Coast Hinterland (2 Days)

Our route up north to Noosa took us for a drive through Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a beautiful area just north of Brisbane that includes driving through the mountains and beachside. You can find my Sunshine Coast post here .

4. Noosa (1 Day)

Noosa is a beach resort town in the southern part of Queensland. Noosa Beach embodies everything Australian. From the surfers who peppered the beach trying to catch a wave, to the cool and chic Hasting street literally a minute walk away from the beach where you can get your fill of avocado toast and pretty acai bowl. You can take a surfing lesson or simply walk along the beach to Noosa National Park, which has hiking trail for all levels of fitness.

5. Fraser Island (Day trip)

Fraser Island draws tourism through its claim as the world’s largest sand island, but it still has abundant of life in it such as lush rainforest, lakes and mangroves. Check out this post for my day trip experience to Fraser Island !

Have you been to Queensland? Let me know what you think of my itinerary above!

• August 26, 2017

Hey there Melissa,

I’m for a while following you on Instagram and on a regular base reading your posts. I usually follow travel blogs only, I think you are the only food-related blog I follow 🙂

Me and some friends recently started a platform where travel bloggers can share experiences. I know you don’t need the promo since your blog is running perfectly, but if you would ever want to guest blog or share some info, we would be honoured! Could be cool to have something about your experience as a food expert!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Travel Tips

Queensland Road Trip Planner

Queensland road trip and day trip planner.

We've listed Queensland's best road trips, weekend trips and day trips out of Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns, Townsville and the Gold Coast. For each road trip we include an itinerary, map, drive times, great camping spots, and things to do. It's the perfect trip planner for campervan travelers.

Camperman has campervan hire depots at each of the road trip start and end points, so you don't have to back track. Simply pick up your campervan at the beginning of your journey and drop it off at the end.

Option 1: Choose a departure Point.

• Cairns - 9 road trips  
• Cairns - 9 Day Trips and Weekenders
• Townsville - 10 road trips
• Airlie Beach - 9 road trips  
• Day trips from Airlie Beach
• Brisbane / Gold Coast - 10 road trips
• Brisbane/Gold Coast - 13 day trips and weekenders
• Hidden Gems within a day trip from Brisbane

Option 2: Pick Road Trips from the Map

Option 3: Choose from our faves:

• Airlie Beach to Brisbane   1,120 km | 7 days Highlights include Cape Hillsborough National Park where kangaroos enjoy the beach as much as you will, Capricorn Caves, Agnes Water, Lady Musgrave Island, the whales of Hervey Bay, World Heritage listed Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach and the Great Sandy National Park, Noosa, the Hinterland and the Glasshouse Mountains.  
• Brisbane to Townsville OUTBACK 2,900 | 7 days Brisbane to Cunnamulla  |  Cunnamulla to Townsville Detour west to travel through Queensland's outback before returning to the coast. This drive traverses a broad range of mostly uninhabited landscapes, rural towns steeped in history, red sand desert and wide open plains, and you'll never see stars like it at night. 

• Cairns to Sydney drive  3,050 km | 21 - 26 days This journey gives you a diverse range of climates, landscapes and cultures from tropical laid-back north Queensland to the subtropics of Sydney, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Highlights include Cape Hillsborough National Park where kangaroos enjoy the beach as much as you will, Capricorn Caves, Agnes Water, Lady Musgrave Island, the whales of Hervey Bay, World Heritage listed Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach and the Great Sandy National Park, Noosa, the Hinterland and the Glasshouse Mountains, Townsville, Magnetic Island, Babinda Boulders, Josephine falls, the pyramid hike, Paronella Park, Mission Beach, Hinchinbrook Island, Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas, Lamington National park, Byron Bay, Nimbin, the Mt. Warning summit climb, the Sapphire Coast and its national parks, the ancient misty rainforest of Dorrigo National Park, pretty Bellingen, Myall Lakes, the Hunter Valley wine region, the Blue Mountains and Sydney.    

• Brisbane to Melbourne drive 2,610 km | 19 - 30 days This journey of a life time hugs to coast most of the way. Highlights include the Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Nimbin, the Mt. Warning summit climb, the Sapphire Coast and its national parks, the ancient misty rainforest of Dorrigo National Park, scenic Bellingen, Myall Lakes, the Hunter Valley wine region, the Blue Mountains and a few days in Sydney, the rugged sandstone cliffs and bays of the Royal National Park,  the Sea Cliff Bridge, Nan Tien temple the southern hemisphere's largest Buddhist temple, the Pigeon House Mountain summit climb, lots of beaches, fresh oysters, local cheese, seals, the Gippsland Lakes and Wilsons Promontory, and the penguins of Phillip Island.  The journey between Sydney and Melbourne can either follow the coast, or veer inland to Australia's capital city  Canberra  and through the  Snowy Mountains  before rejoining the coast.  

Sign up for amazing offers exclusive access for offers and promotions

Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

• Flightseeing
• National Parks
• Wildlife Experiences
• Gluten-free Travel

A Taste of the Queensland Outback: A 10-Day Road Trip

Updated August 2023

Despite the barrenness and heat, I’m fascinated by Australia’s interior.

Vast open spaces, apparent emptiness (which isn’t empty at all), sunburnt, dark red soil that is so uniquely Australian, and life far removed from what 95% of Australians know (paywall-restricted).

Australia’s outback is hot, harsh and tough beyond measure.

I’m fascinated by what it takes to live in such inhospitable conditions and admittedly, I know I could never live there myself. The long, hot summers would simply kill me. But in winter, it’s a different story and that’s when I get my chance to go out west.

Living on the east coast, you’re never far from people. Out west, you’re almost always far from people.

After a week, you’ll forget that traffic lights exist but take every opportunity to fill up with fuel. You’ll see more road kill than you have in a long time but soon you don’t even notice the carcasses on the road anymore. Your mobile phone stops working, so you simply turn it off and forget you own one.

Out here, life is slower and that forces you to slow down.

And winters are just about as perfect as can be.

GETTING A TASTE OF THE QUEENSLAND OUTBACK

The national parks in the Queensland Outback offer plenty of opportunities for camping, exploring, self-guided drives, and short hikes. And then there are the vibrant country towns with their small bakeries, grocery stores, amazing butchers, famous pubs, annual events, local museums, and increasing caravan parks catering to grey nomads.

We usually pop into a bakery or butcher in town when we need to refuel. But for the most part, our town stops tend to be very short and focused on getting supplies. And we don’t really hang around the (in)famous pubs either.

We go out west for the solitude, time away from life on the coast, and to explore a part of Australia we haven’t seen before.

Since the Outback is rather large, and sadly we don’t all have three months to travel across Australia, here’s my suggestion for spending a bit over a week in the Queensland Outback , focusing on three national parks: Idalia , Welford and Currawinya .

HEADING INTO OUTBACK QUEENSLAND: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Travelling into the Queensland Outback requires a certain amount of preparation .

While most of these places can technically be accessed in a 2WD-vehicle in the dry season, scenic drives within the national parks are usually limited to 4WDs .

With a campervan that has high clearance and careful driving, you could probably manage getting into these three national parks. Just be very mindful of road conditions and that you really don’t want to get stuck out there when it’s even vaguely wet. The scenic drives will be off-limits though.

Ensure you have or know the following:

• Know when to travel: Winter is the best time for outback travel. The days are cooler (mid-20°Cs) with occasionally frosty nights, and relatively little rain. April to September is best (my favourite time is June/July). Temperatures can be very high (40°C+) during summer, and many roads stay impassable long after rain.
• Ensure your vehicle has either a large fuel tank or dual tanks: Distances out here are vast and fuel becomes less and less available. Fill up whenever you can, even if you’re still 3/4 full as fuel stations are known to run out of fuel altogether. Blackall, Windorah, Quilpie, Thargomindah, Eulo will be your best stops for filling up along this loop.
• Carry (more than) sufficient water with you: We took 60L and used water very conservatively (think washing dishes once a day only, etc.). We filled up again in Quilpie (bore water) and used that for all washing and cooking needs from then on. Plan at least 5-7L per person per day.
• Be prepared for flies: We almost went as far as Blackall the year before and experienced virtually no flies. This time, there were flies everywhere. Apparently they weren’t as bad as a few weeks prior but they were sufficiently annoying that I was grateful for my mozzie/fly net, and chose to eat dinner inside the tent a few times.
• Be prepared for mozzies at Currawinya: The mosquitoes were so bad at our first campsite at Currawinya that I wanted to leave that night. It was an onslaught of buzzing insects. The bites didn’t hurt or itch terribly but the buzzing and biting was incessant. Our second site was somewhat better so choose your camping spot wisely. I actually developed Ross River Fever a few weeks (and still have flare-ups years later) later so protect yourself against mozzie bites.
• Pack clothes for cold and hot weather: Based on previous trips into Central Queensland during winter, I was prepared for seriously cold temperatures (scarf, gloves, puffer jacket, etc.). I didn’t need any of these on this trip (first week in July). Instead, I was really hot in my 3/4 leggings, and couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of throwing in a pair of shorts.
• Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen: We had four days of blue skies and sunshine, and I couldn’t have done without my hat. Even in winter, the sun is still strong out here.
• Don’t expect to have mobile coverage: Unless you’re with Telstra (and not just a carrier that uses the Telstra network), you won’t have coverage out here. Beyond the towns, you won’t even have access to emergency signals. Carry a PLB (personal locator beacon) and/or have UHF radio in your car in case of emergency or breakdown.
• Expect dust to get everywhere: The drier it’s been and the hotter the day, the more dust will get kicked up as you drive along these outback roads. Expect the red dust to get into everything and to stick. Protect your electronics by wrapping them up – I’d wrap up my camera in a top when I didn’t have it stored in the bag, just to protect it from the dust as we were driving.

A 10-DAY ITINERARY FOR OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

The problem with exploring Central Queensland is that it’s a long way from the coast. From the Sunshine Coast, you have to drive 1,000km just to get to the start of what’s considered the Queensland Outback. And you haven’t even gone anywhere yet.

But making it this far west is definitely worth it.

Doing this loop around Queensland’s Channel Country will give you a real taste of the outback. The towns become smaller, the roads narrower, the road trains longer, and the dirt increasingly redder.

If you want to get off the beaten path, this loop is for you. You won’t see too many Juicy vans, Britz motorhomes or grey nomads in their caravans beyond the towns leading to Longreach or Birdsville.

You can do this loop in either direction and add on plenty of side trips.

Keep in mind that doing this outback road trip is pretty ambitious , and requires moving every day or every second one. If that’s too intense for you, just take more time and add a few days to the itinerary.

We did this road trip in about 9 days , which was just about perfect for us. We clocked up about 3,800km altogether.

Of the 9 days, we had three travel days : Two days to get to our first stop at Idalia National Park, and one day to drive back home.

We had actually allowed two days to drive back home but we mixed up some directions and ended up driving home from Currawinya in one hit (not recommended unless you love driving long distances).

It was a long night…

DAY 1: SUNSHINE COAST / BRISBANE TO MITCHELL OR MORVEN

The drive out to Mitchell (~600km) or Morven (~700km) from the coast is pretty straightforward, it just takes a fair few hours. We usually like to get going early (6am or earlier) and then stop in Chinchilla for a coffee and a quick break.

Roma is a fairly sizeable country town along the way so if you need supplies, this would be a good place. We’ve been through Roma a few times, and once even stayed in a dodgy motel there, but have never really looked around the town much. I think we’re always in travel mode when we come through Roma.

If you break your journey in Mitchell , have a soak at the Great Artesian Spa . We did this the year before after about a week of hiking and camping in Central Queensland, and boy, was I happy to have a shower and a good long soak in the warm artesian waters!

The bakery in Mitchell is also quite famous, and popping in for a snack helps keep these country towns alive. (The husband has to repeatedly deal with my insistent ‘Let’s go in and buy you a nice treat to eat!’ suggestions since I usually can’t eat any of the treats.) 🙂

CAMPING OPTIONS

• Mitchell: Free camping along the Maranoa River at Neil Turner Weir and the smaller Fisherman’s Rest site – both very popular with caravans
• Morven: Camping at the Morven Recreational Facility ; $5 unpowered site

Both sites are fine for an overnight stop, even with a tent, though the spots at Mitchell are much prettier than Morven. On the other hand, the toilets were much cleaner at Morven when we stayed there.

DAY 2-3: MITCHELL / MORVEN TO IDALIA NATIONAL PARK

The drive from Morven to Idalia National Park takes about 7 hours (add an hour / 100km if coming from Mitchell).

We expected the Isisford-Blackall Road from Blackall to Idalia to be unsealed and slow-going. Good news is that it’s sealed all the way to the turnoff for the Blackall-Emmet Road, which then takes you into Idalia.

We stopped briefly in Blackall for fuel, and then went straight to Idalia, getting there by mid-afternoon.

IDALIA NATIONAL PARK

Idalia National Park is a great spot for a couple of days. Here you get to explore rocky escarpments, gorges and relics of a pastoral past.

We stayed two nights at the basic campground at Monks Tank , which seemed just the right amount of time. If you’re after a bit of downtime, plan an extra day or so.

There are a couple of short hikes at Idalia, one of which we ticked off the same day we arrived after setting up the tent. Wave Rock is best explored in the late afternoon light so off we went that first day.

The next morning we started early to hike the short but difficult Emmet Pocket Walk , which ended up being a completely flat walk with no difficulty – or views! – whatsoever.

The Bullock Gorge Walk is another short hike and definitely worth it as you get great views into the surrounding countryside from the escarpment. There are a few other sights to see, including Rainbow Gorge , but none of them will take much time.

READ MORE: A Guide to Idalia National Park

If you’re lucky, you might even spot an elusive yellow-tailed rock wallaby. The husband glimpsed one off Emmet Pocket Lookout .

• Idalia National Park: Monks Tank Camping Area
• Blackall: Camping along the Barcoo River , just outside of town; $5 unpowered site (popular with caravans)

DAY 4-5: IDALIA NATIONAL PARK TO WELFORD NATIONAL PARK

The drive from Idalia to Welford National Park is roughly 250km so not a big travel day.

Make your way back to the Isisford-Blackall Road, which becomes the Emmet-Yaraka Road at Emmet. This is a gorgeous drive as you pass by range after range.

The road is pretty much sealed all the way to Yaraka. Past the tiny settlement of Yaraka (fuel available), it’s more unsealed than sealed but was still in excellent condition (July 2019).

MOUNT SLOCOMBE

Before you get to Yaraka, definitely take the side trip to Mount Slocombe . You’ll get incredible 360° views from up the top, and there’s a fantastic picnic shelter, toilet and even (tank) water available.

This spot would be amazing for sunrise or sunset, you could see for miles around. Alas, we were there at 10:30am so simply had morning tea and headed off.

From there it’s another 100km to Welford, and though Google Maps suggests it’ll take 3.5 hours to get there, it only took us 2 hours to reach the boundary of the national park. More of the road has probably been sealed by now than what Google thinks but travel in the outback is also unpredictable so be prepared for things to take longer.

WELFORD NATIONAL PARK

Like at Idalia, we camped two nights at Welford National Park but unlike Idalia, Welford doesn’t offer much in terms of developed walking trails. Welford also feels much more desert-like than Idalia, which had a distinct rocky feel to it.

Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service have developed three scenic drives at Welford, with the Mulga Drive ending up being our favourite. It offered varied vegetation, and the red soil looked amazing in the late afternoon light.

The drives do take a few hours to drive so two days would be the absolute minimum you need to spend here if you want to explore all the drives.

READ MORE: A Guide to Welford National Park

The highlights at Welford are, no doubt, glistening clay pans, clear waterholes, and the little red sand dune, perfect for sunset watching.

CAMPING OPTION

• Welford National Park: Little Boomerang Waterhole Camping Area

DAY 6: WELFORD NATIONAL PARK TO KILCOWERA STATION

After Welford, you’ll have another long travel day ahead to get to Kilcowera Station an hour south of Thargomindah (~530km).

We left Welford early and stopped at the much-bigger-than-expected town of Quilpie to refuel and frequent the local bakery. 😉 In fact, I got a gluten-free lemon tart at the local supermarket AND a gluten-free passionfruit cheesecake at the bakery, couldn’t quite believe my luck!

If you need to refill water, there’s (bore) water available at the visitor centre but make sure to choose the tap with the sign on it. Otherwise it’ll be scalding hot as the bore water here comes out hot and has to be cooled down first.

Unlike in the Northern Territory, I didn’t find the bore water here particularly sulphuric or odd-tasting.

7km south of Quilpie is Baldy Rock Lookout from where you can get some nice views (so I’m told, we didn’t quite have the time to explore). If you’re staying in Quilpie for the night, I’d definitely do that. I bet sunset is pretty cool from there.

We left Quilpie around 12pm, and it took us another five hours to get to Kilcowera Station, some 90km past Thargomindah. (We did take a slightly more circuitous route though as we wanted to go through some more station country.)

We saw very few cars or trucks on our way from Quilpie to Kilcowera. This is where things really start feeling remote. As you pass by a few isolated stations, you can’t help but wonder how tough life must be out here.

KILCOWERA STATION

If you’ve never camped on a station, here’s your chance.

Kilcowera Station is a working organic cattle station, and has been in the same family close to 30 years. Toni and Greg have set up their property for campers (and other accommodation in the old shearer’s quarters), and you can either get an unpowered or powered site.

We’d never stayed at a station before, and really enjoyed our little site at the lagoon. Plus, I relished being able to have a shower after a week on the road and tons of red dust in my hair.

The next day, we took our time to do the scenic drive around their property (about 5 hours), and then wished we had booked another night here instead of at Currawinya.

• Kilcowera Station : Powered ($50) and unpowered ($40) sites at a working cattle station
• Currawinya National Park: Various camping areas
• Please note that camping is not permitted along the Bulloo River outside of Thargomindah (there’s  a commercial caravan park in town)

DAY 7-8: KILCOWERA STATION TO CURRAWINYA NATIONAL PARK

Getting from Kilcowera Station to Currawinya National Park won’t take more than a couple of hours (~100km). We ended up rushing a bit as we spent the best part of Day 7 exploring Kilcowera Station, and only left the station around 3pm.

Along the way you could stop at Hungerford. It’s a tiny town with a somewhat crazy-looking pub and gravity-fed fuel available.

CURRAWINYA NATIONAL PARK

Currawinya National Park is almost bordering on NSW, and easily one of Queensland’s largest national parks. It has recently been extended and now encompasses a pretty vast area.

The park is a wetland of international importance, supporting more than 100,000 birds, including migratory ones. Obviously in winter, the waterways are relatively dry so bird watching isn’t necessarily at its prime. Still, you’ll see plenty of birds if you keep your eyes out for them.

Currawinya has two large lakes, one fresh and the other salty, and a myriad of channels, waterholes and rivers cruising through the area. Except for one area, camping is found along the Paroo River (think muddy waters, not clear blue).

But what we found really fascinating are Currawinya’s remnants from pastoral times.

Two huge shearing sheds, including a number of other pastoral outbuildings, give a glimpse into the hard life that once was pulsing out here.

We easily spent two days at Currawinya. Just doing the new River Drive takes a day. 3-4 days would allow a more relaxed way of exploring all that Currawinya has to offer, especially if you’re into poking around relics from the past.

• Currawinya National Park: Various camping spots along the Paroo River

DAY 9-10: CURRAWINYA NATIONAL PARK TO SUNSHINE COAST / BRISBANE

Day 9 and 10 will be travel days again, and marked the end of our Central Queensland Outback road trip.

We spent a leisurely morning exploring yet more historic remnants at Currawinya, and then left the national park around lunch time. Our next stop would be Thrushton National Park near Bollon, and after getting fuel in Cunnamulla, we went on to Bollon.

Cunnamulla looked like a super tidy town, and I spotted some painted silos that I totally forgot to photograph. There were plenty of people getting snacks and food from the local pub so it’d probably make for a nice stop for lunch.

We briefly stopped at the camping area in Bollon, and debated staying the night but then decided to move on to Thrushton National Park.

An hour out of Bollon, we realised that we should have turned off the Balonne Highway before reaching Bollon (onto the Mitchell-Bollon Road) to get to Thrushton, and turning around now would mean a fair detour. By the time we’d get back to Bollon, let alone Thrushton, it’d be dark so we decided to keep going, stop in St. George for a quick bite to eat, and drive home that night.

• Bollon: Free camping along Wallum Creek (popular with caravans); hot showers available along the main road in town
• Thrushton National Park: Thrushton Homestead Camping Area and Thrushton Woolshed Camping Area

In the end, Day 10 was spent at home. First sleeping in, and then cleaning out the car and putting all that camping gear away again.

Driving all the way from Currawinya back to the coast meant a big drive (~1,000km). If we hadn’t dawdled so much in the morning, thinking we were going to Thrushton, we would have left early and got home at a somewhat more reasonable hour. That said, Bollon would make a great stop to break up the trip home.

Queensland is a massive state, and even after a few years living here, we’ve still only see a small part of it.

I love heading into the interior, albeit only during the cooler months. If you’re after solitude, wildlife, red dirt and wide open spaces, southwest Queensland is a great spot.

The three national parks are all very different, and I enjoyed each one for different reasons. Idalia offered gorges, rocky escarpments and walks. Welford had beautiful clay pans, Mulga shrubland and sand dunes. And Currawinya gave us a real insight into the former sheep shearing industry (though interpretation panels were somewhat lacking).

10 days isn’t a heap of time for exploring such a vast area so if you have an extra day or two, you’ll be able to travel a bit slower and have some time to relax. We could have used two nights at Kilcowera Station, and would have liked to stop at Thrushton National Park as well. And now that Currawinya is opened up even further, three nights there would be the minimum.

MORE POSTS ON TRAVELLING IN THE OUTBACK

For more detailed information on what to do at Welford, our second stop on this outback road trip, take a look at my guide to Welford National Park .

Perhaps not technically in the Queensland Outback, Carnarvon National Park is an amazing place to explore. With four different sections accessible, it can be hard to decide what to see. Here’s my guide to Mount Moffatt , or if you want to do some overnight hiking, Carnarvon Gorge is a great destination .

The Northern Territory is another vast area, and one that has a lot of popular spots. Read more about my highlights from our Northern Territory road trip .

Hiking in the Australian Outback can be a very special experience. The Ormiston Pound Hike in the West MacDonnell Ranges is a stunning half-day walk. If you’re keen on long-distance hiking, the Larapinta Trail is a must.

Further Reading...

Meeting Berlin: Famous Landmarks

4 Quaint Towns on a German Timber-Frame Road Trip

7 Stunning Inside Passage Destinations

Was für eine schöne Einleitung 🙂 Und vor allem die Bilder von Tag 2 sind richtig beeindruckend. Lustig wie richtig zu sehen ist, dass alles irgendwie so golden und orange und nach Outback aussieht, also allein vom Licht.

Oh, danke schoen! 😀

Ja, alles sehr golden und hell (teilweise sogar sehr grell) im Outback. Am schoensten finde ich immer die rote Erde mit gruenen Straeuchern, Grass oder Baeumen. Da muss es allerdings gut regnen!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Idalia National Park Camping Guide

Welford national park camping options, queensland & beyond.

Australia's best coastal road trips

23 June 2022

Even a road trip well-travelled can reveal plenty of surprises if you take the time to slow down. Here are 11 of Australia’s best coastal road trips to inspire you from our special 100 Amazing Road Trips around Australia series.

Coastal road trips.

• Sydney to the Gold Coast
• Sydney to Ulladulla, NSW
• Broome to Cape Leveque, WA
• The Capricorn Coast, Qld
• The Great Green Way, Qld
• East Coast Tasmania
• Fleurieu Peninsula, SA
• Sydney to Port Macquarie, NSW
• Eyre Peninsula, SA
• Central Coast, NSW
• Yorke Peninsula, SA

1. Sydney to the Gold Coast

Gone are my days of hightailing it from Sydney to Byron or the Gold Coast . By not trying to beat Google’s predicted arrival time, I’ve unearthed a string of pearlescent towns that make the journey just as appealing as the final destination. Who knew they were all glistening in plain sight?

I wholly endorse slowing it down and spending a handful of days to turn this corridor between home and holiday into a true road trip. You might just find a new destination that usurps the usual.

The road trip to the stunning Gold Coast is filled with amazing Australian gems. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

First stop beyond the city limits is the beachside enclave of Old Bar on the Barrington Coast, just east of Taree. It’s a place where boardshorts are worn year-round and the Kombi van retains eternal appreciation, particularly over the October long weekend, when the Old Bar Beach Festival descends with the headline event a parade of the original surfer transporter.

Visit some of the Barrington Coast’s gems like Wallis Lake, Tuncurry. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Manning River makes a break for the ocean here, ensuring it’s a great spot for fishing and water sports; there’s also Saltwater National Park to explore; and the music-themed Boogie Woogie Beach House that will rock you to sleep under the watchful eye of Nick Cave, Dave Grohl or Bowie.

Find your beat at Boogie Woogie Beach House at Old Bar. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Crescent Head

This town on the Macleay Valley Coast is certainly not flying under the radar for surfers, they’ve been riding into shore since the ’50s. Somehow, though, it slips through the cracks in the most delightful way, despite being 20 minutes from the route’s halfway-point of Kempsey.

Camp, kick back and absorb the chilled-out vibes at Crescent Beach on the North Coast (Credit: Alexandra Adoncello)

Crescent Head has an endless summer vibe that is all casualness and zero pretension. The waves are worthy, the headlands are beautiful, even when windswept, and the chillout factor is high. You’ll find great coffee and breakfast at Blackfish, easy-going Mexican at Chanchitas, and inspired accommodation at The Med.

Surf the waves at Racecourse Head. (Image: Destination NSW)

Emerald Beach

Salute the Big Banana as you glide past Coffs Harbour and into the hamlet of Emerald Beach. Here, you’ll find a Discovery Park, which is great if you’re travelling with kids or a caravan, otherwise, this is beach house territory– throw your wet towel over the balcony and settle in for some deep relaxation.

Join the local wildlife gathered on Emerald Beach, part of the scenic Coffs Coast. (Credit: Destination NSW)

The beach itself is stunning and shouldered by a headland that plays host to grazing roos. Further along, the amusingly named Look At Me Now Headland makes for an easy stroll. Once you’ve obliged the attention-seeking clifftop, use it as a vantage point to admire the views, then stroll to nearby La Hacienda 101 for a Mexican fiesta and a bracingly good margarita, or coffee and a burger at the Emerald Beach General Store.

Watch the sunrise over Look At Me Headland. (Image: Destination NSW)

Although I’ve been passing Yamba for decades, I’d never made the detour until embarrassingly recently. My unfashionable lateness means I’ve missed out on many a holiday here. Don’t make the same mistake.

Yamba is a brilliant stop on this northward (or southward) drive. It blends excellent dining and a smattering of browsable boutiques with dreamy beachscapes and nostalgic school holiday feels.

Dreamy coastal views across Yamba– the coastal town that has something for everybody. (Credit: Destination NSW)

As for the accommodation, the riverside Blue Dolphin complete with a giant jumping pillow and swim-up bar is one of the best holiday parks to ever straddle amusements for kids and adults. Meanwhile, the town’s first boutique hotel, The Surf, is a direct antithesis to the Dolphin and exceedingly well put-together.

The Surf is set to become a bit of a Yamba landmark.

Quite literally on the flipside to Yamba, both geographically and energetically, is Iluka. The diminutive town across the Clarence River from its better-known southerly neighbour has a sleepier personality but is a haven for outdoor pursuits.

Fishermen enjoy a tranquil evening at the Clarence River, Iluka. (Credit: My Clarence Valley)

The Iluka Nature Reserve is a place to free-dive into a pristine environment. Let your hair dry with saltwater, your feet toughen under rocks, and eschew dependence on technologies to immerse yourself in nature’s restorative charms. The campground at Woody Head is legendary for barefoot adventures over rockpools and shell-littered sands.

Come to Iluka Bay to see some soldier crabs. (Image: My Clarence Valley)

Just 20 minutes north of Byron, this Tweed Coast town is worth a visit, even if your journey ends in the bay. It’s rare to catch a place mid-bloom, but Pottsville is a quiet achiever among the chain of settlements strewn along this coastline and is steadfastly collecting admirers.

Don’t miss the pristine beaches at Pottsville. (Image: Getty Images)

Walkable from town is Mooball Creek, a glassy, natural swimming pool perfect for splashing and paddle-boarding that’s divided from Pottsville Beach by a protective seawall. Pottsville village offers plenty of destination eats such as the acclaimed Pipit Restaurant, proper Italian Pottsville Pizzeria, and artisan gelato at Piccolo Mondo.

Pipit Restaurant is one of the standout foodie hotspots in the Northern Rivers region.  (Credit: Pipit Restaurant/Sabine Bannard)

The drive between Sydney and the Gold Coast via these six towns is 966 kilometres.

2. Sydney to Ulladulla, South Coast, NSW

Every NSW childhood inevitably includes a summer holiday escape to the South Coast, renting a house near the water and living out a coastal daydream of long, hot days filled with beach excursions and barbecues.

My own South Coast idyll was found in a caravan park in the town of Ulladulla, where I managed to score the coveted top bunk for the duration. I realise I have come a long way as I pull into the tree-dappled driveway at Cupitt’s Estate bound for a stay in one of its newly minted luxury pods.

Ulladulla Harbour has some of the most beautiful sunrises. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sydney to Royal National Park

The reason that the drive to the South Coast is renowned as one of the country’s best is evident as soon as you clear the city traffic and enter the Royal National Park on the first leg of the Grand Pacific Drive. Navigating the winding road through this pristine expanse of vegetation, with side roads darting off towards amazing walks and sparkling beaches, the temptation is to stop constantly, but that’s for another road trip (see entry #65) so continue cruising and take in the scenery.

Stargazing has never been as stunning than at Wattamolla Beach in the Royal National Park. (Image: Filippo Rivetti)

Wollongong to Shellharbour

Once past the park’s limits, it is 60 kilometres of easy roads – including the stunning sweep of Sea Cliff Bridge – to the coastal city of Wollongong, which boasts wide, welcoming beaches such as Thirroul and Austinmer and a laid-back seaside lifestyle; grab a bacon and egg roll and a coffee at Lili J to fuel up for the next leg.

Absorb breathtaking views along the coast-hugging road at Sea Cliff Bridge, Illawarra. (Credit: Destination NSW)

It’s only another 20 kilometres to Shellharbour, which should allow enough time for your brunch to go down so you can take a quick dip or – if you have packed your board – catch a few waves at The Farm, the surfing reserve at Killalea Reserve.

Catch some waves at The Farm. (Image: Destination NSW)

Kiama to Nowra

Kiama is the next stop on the journey, celebrated for its naturally occurring blowholes, which spew foaming sea water at surprising intervals. While these whimsical natural wonders have served as the town’s major drawcard for decades, more and more visitors are stopping here for the delightful cafe culture fuelled by the likes of Bouquiniste, a curated bookstore, cafe and wine bar, The Hungry Monkey and Parfait Patisserie.

Make a trip to Kiama’s Blowhole Point Rock Pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

The town of Gerringong, a 12-minute drive through lush coastal-meets-country scenery, is also developing a foodie reputation with inviting wine bars Gather By The Hill and Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar worth investing some time in, if not on this journey then at another time.

Take advantage of the gourmet food and wine in Gerringong. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Shoalhaven hub of Nowra, 40 kilometres from Kiama, is the end of the official Grand Pacific Drive route, but from here more coastal delights await.

Watch the sunset over Hanging Rock Lookout and the Shoalhaven River in Nowra. (Image: Destination NSW)

Cupitt’s Estate

The family-owned and run Cupitt’s Estate presents itself as the perfect base for exploration and enjoyment on this blissful part of the coast, including the towns of Milton and Mollymook. With bucolic views in all directions, the property is the picture of a restive country escape, especially since the installation of a collection of graciously chic accommodation pods. There is constant industry going on here, from winemaking and tastings to boutique cheese production to considered farm-to-table dishes being served with a smile in the Dining Room, all of which should be sampled during a stay here.

The all-new Luxury Pods at Cupitt’s Estate. (Image: Elise Hassey)

The Grand Pacific Drive is 140 kilometres; it’s another 60 kilometres to Ulladulla.

Words by Leigh-Ann Pow

3. Broome to Cape Leveque, WA

Coastal drives don’t come more remote – or rewarding – than the one from Broome to Cape Leveque in Western Australia. It’s a 206-kilometre journey taking roughly three hours without too many stops, but, trust us, you are going to want to stop for the stunning beaches and welcoming Aboriginal communities.

Treat yourself to a cultural tour with Bolo in Dampier Peninsula. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Heading north out of Broome, the Broome Cape Leveque Road charts a path through the pristine Dampier Peninsula, taking in Beagle Bay, where Sacred Heart Church, with its altar decorated with Mother of Pearl, is a delightful diversion, and Lombadina, to experience the local way of life of the Bardi people.

Make a visit to Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Cape Leveque is famed as the place where the red sands of the outback melt into the startling blue/green waters of the Indian Ocean, and it really is a sight to behold. Continue on to the evocatively named One Arm Point (Ardyaloon) to finish your trip gazing out to the beauty of the Buccaneer Archipelago and camping under the inky black night skies.

Adventure on red-soil country along the rural Cape Leveque Road (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

4. The Capricorn Coast, Qld

Getting to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from Brisbane usually involves a flight. But not always. Yeppoon is the gateway to its southern stretches and while this tropical town on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast can be reached by a full day’s drive via the Bruce Highway, breaking up the journey will turn your road trip into a relaxing holiday sprinkled with gourmet and outdoor experiences.

Stop at the Yeppoon Surfside Motel on the way. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Stroll the Hervey Bay pier and take a whale-watching cruise (July to November) on the Fraser Coast; explore Bundaberg’s famous distillery and the golden sands of Bargara Beach; and walk the Paperbark Forest Boardwalk at Agnes Water before catching a spectacular sunset at the town of 1770.

Grab a glass and explore the famous Bundaberg Rum distillery (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

1443 kilometres

Park the car and jump on the Keppel Konnections ferry at Rosslyn Bay, just south of Yeppoon, to overnight at Great Keppel Island Hideaway – a barefoot paradise.

Words by Jennifer Johnston

5. The Great Green Way, Qld

It takes about five hours to drive from Townsville to Cairns (or the other way round), but don’t do that. Missing the chance to linger along this part of the Queensland coast is to miss what’s truly special about the Far North.

Watch the sunset at island town, West Point. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

I pass through sugar towns, and drink at Queensland pubs where locals still fish and farm for a living. This road’s called The Great Green Way, because it traverses 12 national parks. It’s also the closest mainland access to the Great Barrier Reef – and the area’s World Heritage listed (in a region dubbed the Wet Tropics).

The ultimate road trip to the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There are places you’d have heard of along the way – like Mission Beach, a 14-kilometre strip of beach fringed by rainforest that’s home to trendy resorts and an eclectic community of creative types (it’s also home to the highest density of endangered southern cassowaries left on the planet). But it’s the places you haven’t heard of that make this drive special.

Wild cassowaries frequent Mission Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Drive 20 minutes north of Townsville and there’s wide sandy beaches like Saunders Beach: six kilometres long, with not a soul on it. Or drive 25 minutes north of Mission Beach to Kurrimine Beach where only fishermen live, and swim in rock pools within the Great Barrier Reef, accessible at low tide. And if you’d prefer to see a cassowary with no one else, book a cabin on the beach (Etty Bay Caravan Park) just north of there at a secret spot where the birds come to feed each morning and evening.

Stroll along stretches of golden sand on the iconic Mission Beach. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)

350 kilometres

Words by Craig Tansley

6. East Coast, Tasmania

Travellers to Tasmania often overlook the state’s east coast in favour of Hobart and Cradle Mountain, but this is where you’ll find the best of what Tasmania offers.

Drive the east coast and you’ll pass through four national parks, one of Australia’s oldest wine regions (visit Devil’s Corner’s reinvigorated cellar door) and fishing ports where seafood comes straight from the trawlers, or off oyster leases.

The stunning yet oft-overlooked East Coast of Tasmania is interspersed by white-sand beaches and plenty of foodie hotspots serving up fresh seafood. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

Little penguins swim off the rocks at seaside communities like Bicheno and if it’s beaches you’ve come for, you’ll find two of the world’s best (Bay Of Fires and Wineglass Bay). Though they’re all like that here: there are 200-plus kilometres of white-sand beaches fringed by granite blocks coloured by bright orange lichen.

Get your insta pics at Wineglass Bay.(Image: Melissa Findley)

220 kilometres

7. Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

Jutting out into the Great Australian Bight, the dramatic coast of Fleurieu Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise. Thirty minutes south of Adelaide, Port Noarlunga is a town nestled between the natural beauty of reef and river. Dubbed the ‘Great Southern Reef ’, its marine sanctuary zone is popular with divers, while Onkaparinga River National Park is hiking and kayaking territory.

Make a stop at Port Willunga Beach. (Image: Mish and Kirk)

Further south, walk among the ruins of a 19th-century jetty and shipwreck at Port Willunga before dining at renowned ocean-front restaurant The Star of Greece. Then see where the rolling green hills of the Mount Lofty Range come to an abrupt stop at Sellicks Beach, where white sands and turquoise water complete the striking landscape.

Relax with exquisite ocean-front dining at the Star of Greece (Credit: (South Australian Tourism Commission)

At the tip of the peninsula, remote Deep Creek National Park has 15 walking tracks to explore; it’s home to kangaroos, echidnas and more than 100 species of bird, as well as pristine Blowhole Beach.

Explore the wildlife in Deep Creek Conservation Park. (Image: Jessica Coulter)

Emerging from the wild tip, you’ll come to Victor Harbor, a vibrant small town nestled on the arc of Encounter Bay. Take a historic horse-drawn tram to Granite Island, famous for its boulder-laden landscape and its colony of little penguins, and board the rattling 1854 Cockle Train for a scenic journey to Goolwa, a historic port where the Murray River and Southern Ocean meet.

Return to Adelaide via the McLaren Vale wine region, stopping along the way to sample local drops at award-winning d’Arenberg or pretty-as-a-picture Down The Rabbit Hole.

Go diving at Port Noarlunga in the Fleurieu Peninsula. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone)

267 kilometres.

Disconnect at the completely isolated yet ultra-luxe Naiko Retreat (one of our 100 unique stays ), an oceanfront stay atop the rolling hills of Deep Creek.

Words by Megan Arkinstall

8. Sydney to Port Macquarie, NSW

While you can pack a lot in along the Legendary Pacific Coast highway from Sydney to Port Macquarie, you can also just pull out all the stops so you can drop and flop when you arrive in the seaside city that is known for its beaches, surf and pristine coastline.

The Port Macquarie coastline is perfect for watching the waves. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start off on the right foot with breakfast at Little Turkey , and lunch at Cassegrain Wines followed by a quick jaunt down to the harbour for Port Macquarie SUP Fun.

Paddock-to-plate dining at Twotriplefour Restaurant onsite at Cassegrain Wines, Port Macquarie. (Credit: Destination NSW)

You can also string together experiences such as a Hastings River Horse Riding tour, sundowners at the Little Shack and a coastal walk along the breakwall to Tacking Point Lighthouse. As well as being one of the best spots for spotting dolphins and whale watching on the NSW east coast, the watery playground is a top spot to enjoy slurping down a cheeky dozen oysters.

Spot some whales and dolphins at the Tacking Point Lighthouse. (Image: Destination NSW)

387 kilometres via M1 and Pacific Highway from Sydney.

There is an abundance of accommodation to choose from, but we recommend you grab a group of friends for an exclusive stay at private eco retreat Mansfield Estate or in the heart of the city at Sails Port Macquarie.

Words by Carla Grossetti

9. Eyre Peninsula, SA

My father was an avid storyteller who wrote a memoir detailing his childhood in Port Lincoln. The book, his passing five years ago and the fact I’d never visited his birthplace inspired me to make a nostalgic trip to South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula.

My friend and I set off south down the east coast, starting at Whyalla on the shores of the upper Spencer Gulf. We soak in 360-degree views from Hummock Hill and circuit the seaport’s uniquely circular shaped jetty, where a mosaic cuttlefish sculpture nods to the giant cuttlefish migration that can be witnessed here between May and August.

Whyalla Jetty is a sight for sore eyes. (Image: Tommy Woods Photography)

Cowell to Tumby Bay

An hour further south, we stop at Cowell on Franklin Harbour: one of the best fishing spots in the state, where we also find silo art that forms part of the South Australia Silo Art Trail and locally made jade jewellery available to purchase at the Cowell Jade Motel. And we continue to Tumby Bay, where my father was born in a small hospital that still stands on the pine-tree-lined foreshore.

Eyre Peninsula Cowell Silo Mural of Lionel Deer and a camel. (Image: Jennifer Johnston)

The sleepy coastal town has an accessible walking trail that follows the foreshore past a wooden jetty whose pylons and ocean weed beds are home to a whimsical sea creature: the elusive leafy sea dragon. Though the only one we find is on a mural. Elsewhere, Tumby Bay’s silo art is a magical reflection of the seaside town by Argentinian artist Martin Ron.

Walk the Tumby Bay Jetty to find the leafy sea dragon. (Image: Mark Phelps)

Port Lincoln

Then on to Port Lincoln and a stop at Limani Motel, where my father’s family home once stood. Looking out over the calm waters of Boston Bay – the largest natural harbour in Australia – I’m absorbed by his childhood view.

Outdoor adventures abound in and around this seafood capital, home to the biggest commercial fishing fleet in the southern hemisphere. In Lincoln National Park, we hike the 1.6 kilometres up Stamford Hill for spectacular views of the bay, and pad along pristine and secluded September Beach, speckled with granite boulders coated with orange lichen.

A drive through Lincoln National Park delivers the views. (Image: City of Port Lincoln)

The 1000-hectare wilderness sanctuary of nearby Whaler’s Way lies at South Australia’s southernmost tip; the roads are unsealed and rugged but the breathtaking coastal landscapes are worth every effort (pass required to visit).

Whalers Way is filled with charm. (Image: Kristy Billing @gypsyandherwild)

The tucked-away holiday haven of Coffin Bay, on the western side of the Eyre Peninsula’s tip, is most famous for one thing: following a speedy check-in at Coffin Bay Caravan Park , my oyster-loving friend scoots across the campgrounds to Oyster HQ. I arrive as she’s tucking into a dozen Coffin Bay oysters.

Experience freshly-shucked Coffin Bay oysters. (Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission)

After downing her second dozen, we walk part of the 15-kilometre Oyster Walk, which meanders through coastal vegetation with idyllic waters views and takes in the historical site of Old Oyster Town.

The pristine waters of Coffin Bay are to die for. (Image: Brodie Dufek)

On our final day we drive through Coffin Bay National Park. The wind is squally on Almonta Beach, but we persevere and revel in the Eyre Peninsula’s wild coastline one last time. My journey down this triangular land mass, wedged between the Great Australian Bight and the Spencer Gulf, has served up nostalgia in spades and many surprises besides.

Drive your way through Coffin Bay National Park. (Image: Glenn Ferguson)

404 kilometres

10. Central Coast, NSW

Known for its 40-plus beaches and laid-back surf culture, the Central Coast is a mecca for sun-sand-and-sea lovers. Beyond its waves, it has a newfound label as a culinary hotspot, with award-winning restaurants that rival big-city dining (including Osteria Il Coccia in Ettalong and Yellowtail in Terrigal) as well as four breweries and a distillery, where you can enjoy gin and gelato in a pretty garden setting.

Yellowtail is a restaurant experience you can’t beat.

The region is also home to NSW’s only pearl farm, Broken Bay Pearl Farm, which offers immersive tours from its ‘shellar door’, and Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, which hosts unique in-water shucking experiences, both on the sparkling Hawkesbury River.

See how oysters are farmed with a Sydney Oysters Farm Tour. (Image: Sydney Oysters Farm Tour)

On land, the Coast has multiple walking tracks that weave through pockets of rainforest (Strickland State Forest) and trace cliffsides above crashing ocean (Bouddi Coastal Walk).

Vibrant native shrubs bloom along the Bouddi Coastal Walk. (Credit: Nikki To)

The Central Coast has roughly 80 kilometres of coastline.

The secluded eco villas at Glenworth Valley combine luxury with adventure (horse riding, quad biking, abseiling and more).

Go horse riding at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Yorke Peninsula, SA

South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula extends out into the ocean not unlike Italy’s boot. Travel to its toe from Adelaide on a beach house pilgrimage taking in pink shack Love & Mutiny on the west coast and Bayside Glamping’s tiny house at Marion Bay, right at its tip.

‘Love and Mutiny’ is a secluded beach shack that hosts fantastic views over the Yorke Peninsula. (Credit: Hannah Puechmarin)

324 kilometres

Keep reading our special Top 100 Road Trips in Australia editorial series.

Leave your comment, cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You might also like

What’s on around Australia in April 2024

There’s no shortage of hip and happening events taking place across the country this April. Here's where to get your groove on. From food festivals...

What’s on around Australia in March 2024

Get ready for a big month, because March is absolutely packed full of amazing events. There are some spectacular events popping up across the country...

The best restaurants to try around Australia right now

There’s always something new and exciting happening in the Australian dining scene. From brand-new places to drink and dine, reimagined restaurants...

A drool-worthy guide to Australia’s best cheese toasties

For those times when nothing by a cheese toastie will do... Consider this your guide to Australia's best cheese toasties, slathered with butter and g...

The best high teas in hotels around Australia

Here is our comprehensive guide to the best high teas in hotels around Australia. There’s something fabulous about sipping tea out of dainty crocke...

Top 10 Aussie food and wine festivals you’ve never heard of

Adventurous epicureans can plot their itineraries around awesome Aussie food and wine festivals that happen year-round. 1. Full Moon Festival, Byron ...

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

• Capricorn Coast
• Bundaberg Region
• Fraser Coast
• Sunshine Coast
• Outback Queensland
• Brisbane food
• Brisbane travel
• Southern Qld Country
• Norfolk Island
• Getting There
• Northern Territory
• New South Wales
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand
• United States
• Food Issues
• Food Champions
• Trails, Markets & Festivals
• Craft distillers and brewers
• About Kerry

Select Page

Hit the Open Road and Explore Hidden Gems: 17 Queensland Road Trips You Can’t Miss!

Posted by Kerry Heaney | Love Ya QLD! | 0

Embark on an exciting Queensland road trip adventure and immerse yourself in the vast expanse of open spaces. Discover the hidden gems along less-traveled routes as you chase breathtaking waterfalls, indulge in vibrant music festivals, encounter ancient dinosaurs, marvel at colossal landmarks, or savor delectable culinary delights. Join the growing trend of Aussies who are embracing road tripping as their favorite means of escape. Get ready to travel big, venture far, and explore the wonders that await you!

Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Home to the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in the world IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Table of Contents

Plan your Queensland drive with these 10 top tips

Road tripping is the new black, and it is a low-cost, fun way to holiday, but with so many travelling it also pays to plan ahead.  There are a few essentials that need to accompany you on your Queensland road trip.  Simple things but they will make the difference between a good trip and a great trip. Use these tips for a stress-free holiday!

• Pick your dates carefully to avoid school holidays if you can.  If you must travel during the school holidays, the first weeks of December and the last weeks of January are usually cheaper.
• Check your car insurance before you set out and make sure you have roadside cover for the unexpected
• Add some luxury to your trip with your accommodation or keep it lean with motel stays, vans or camping. If you don’t have your own van, check out Camplify where you can dip into the sharing economy and hire someone else’s pride and joy.
• If you plan on taking a longer break in one spot, consider a house swap if you live in a desirable area.  Another option is to put your house on Airbnb.
• Book accommodation with cooking facilities and pick up local produce along the way.  Roadside stalls often have great bargains with fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables. You’ll save on dining costs and can use the money for day trips instead. Keep a stash of cash and small change for the roadside stalls, and enjoy a taste of the region as you travel.
• Take an esky or portable fridge in the car for day-to-day needs (I like to have milk on hand for my tea) and your take-home treats.  You can pick up a take-home meal in one town and eat it in the next if it’s kept cool while travelling.
• A picnic chair, maybe two, or a blanket is a great addition to your travelling kit.  This means you can stop and enjoy that view. The makings for a cuppa would also come in handy.
• Keep your energy up with snacks to enjoy along the way. Some say your road trip snacks should look like they were bought by a 10-year-old given $100! Doesn’t that sound like fun?
• Make sure to include refillable water bottles so you can keep hydrated and still be sustainable.
• A playlist with everyone’s favourite tunes will keep you entertained.  On my last road trip, we made a Spotify playlist that was inspired by the drive.  It was fun coming up with songs that reflected the journey.  We also asked people to contribute songs for us and included songs playing in restaurants where we dined. The Shazam app was helpful in identifying the songs we were hearing.

Guided 4WD tour along the beach IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Where to go on your Queensland road trip?

Great beach drive, sunshine coast to fraser coast.

Epic road trips don’t come any greater than the Great Beach Drive . Adventure and nature collide on this five-day, 380km 4WD journey along the golden sands of the Sunshine and Fraser Coasts. Starting in Noosa, take the vehicle ferry across the river to Noosa Northshore – the gateway to The Great Sandy Biosphere Reserve. Driving onwards to Double Island Point, home to the world’s longest right-hand surf break and onto Rainbow Beach. A short jaunt up the beach to Inskip Point, followed by a barge across the Great Sandy Strait, takes travellers to the southern tip of World Heritage Listed K’gari (Fraser Island).

The beach driving doesn’t stop there. Cruise the eastern fringe of the island along 75 Mile Beach and take in K’gari (Fraser Island) beauty spots like Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, Indian Head, Champagne Pools and Pile Valley. Want to tackle the Great Beach Drive without getting behind the wheel? Join the experts at Great Beach Drive 4WD Tours or Discovery Fraser Island on a guided 4WD tour.

Hit the road on a Brisbane to Winton Outback Queensland road trip.

The ‘Big Things’ Road Trip, state-wide

There’s no denying Queensland is big, so it’s only fitting Australia’s second largest state is home to a monumental assortment of ‘big things’. Road trippers can tick many of these off the big bucket list with a blockbuster voyage spanning the length of Queensland’s coastline. Starting in border town Stanthorpe, see Australia’s answer to the ‘big apple’, before turning to the coast to drool over the Big Pie at Yatala’s famed pie shop on the Gold Coast. Head north on the Bruce Highway to the Sunshine Coast – home to the Big Pineapple and ‘Matilda’ the big kangaroo from the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games (located at Kybong, just south of Gympie). Sticking with the theme of iconic Aussie characters, a towering statue of Ned Kelly can be found in Maryborough on the Fraser Coast.

The namesake of Bundaberg Rum, ‘Bundy’, as the town is affectionately known, doesn’t do beverages by halves with the big Bundaberg Barrel serving up refreshing Bundaberg Brewed Drinks. Still thirsty? Near Childers check out the big Beer Bottle. It will be no surprise that Australia’s beef capital, Rockhampton, boasts six Big Bulls while in Sarina, south of Mackay, Buffy the Big Cane Toad stands guarding the main street. For something sweeter, the ten-metre-high Big Mango in Bowen welcomes visitors to the town made famous by the tropical fruit. In Tully, stand next to the Golden Gumboot to understand how much rain fell in the Wet Tropics town in 1950 – the highest annual rainfall ever recorded in Australia. On the Cassowary Coast, seek out the Big Cassowary at Mission Beach, and in the tropical north, climb inside the Big Croc Head in the Daintree or travel to gulf country to meet Krys the Big Crocodile in Normanton. For more big things away from the coastal drive, take the inland route with plenty more ideas here .

Ballandean Estate Wines IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Savour Southern Queensland Country Tasting Trails, Southern Queensland Country

The Savor Southern Queensland Country Tasting Trails are a must-do for foodies with each trail calling for empty baskets and empty bellies. Six delectable self-drive itineraries wind through the rolling hills, towering mountain ranges and sprawling countryside west of Brisbane. Choose from cellar doors and vineyards, food-focused events and workshops, local producers, breweries and distilleries, picnics and country pubs. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-night culinary journey, travellers have the flexibility to follow just one trail or combine different experiences from a few, tailoring the trip to individual tastebuds.

I compiled these trails so I know they are excellent!

The Long Sunset IMAGE Mitch Lowe . 

Queensland Music Trails, state-wide

The Queensland Music Trails is a first-of-its-kind event series that blends outstanding musical performances with roving Queensland backdrops. From opera to DJs and everything in between, performers take to the stage across seven distinct trails. The curtain raises in April when the Outback Trail roams through St George, Cunnamulla, Tambo and Charleville across eight days of blues, folk, jazz and retro tunes. The Long Sunset in the Scenic Rim follows on 29 April 2023 and will see crowd favourites, Lime Cordiale, headline alongside a superb lineup of Queensland talent, including Hatchie, Sycco and Tia Gostelow.

Switching gear, billowing ballads of the opera will ring through the countryside for the Southern Trail with historic Jimbour House in the Darling Downs hosting the star-studded symphonies of Opera Queensland, Ensemble Q and a 26-piece Orchestra from Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. The final four trails in the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Great Barrier Reef and Tropical North will be announced in the coming months.

Eromanga Natural History Museum showcasing the fossil, natural and cultural heritage of the upper Murray/Darling and Lake Eyre/Cooper basins IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Australian Dinosaur Trail, Outback Queensland

Jurassic Park fans and budding paleontologists can head due west to Outback Queensland to unearth Australia’s prehistoric past on the Australian Dinosaur Trail . Start the expedition in Eromanga and say g’day to Australia’s largest dinosaur, a 90-something-million-year-old titanosaur called ‘Cooper’ at the Eromanga Natural History Museum.

In Winton, get digging at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs which houses the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in one enormous museum located on the summit of a stunning jump-up (butte). While here, volunteer to help prep a dino or take part in a paid dinosaur dig held on select dates throughout the year.

Just over an hour’s drive southwest of Winton is the Lark Quarry Conservation Park and Dinosaur Stampede National Monument – the site of the only recorded dinosaur stampede on earth. Pass back through Winton and onto Hughenden to meet ‘Hughie’, a seven-metre replica of a 110-million-year-old Muttaburrasaurus found in 1963. Finish the trail in Richmond, the Fossil Capital of Australia, and rewind the clock 120 million years at Kronosaurus Corner. The museum holds 1,150 local fossils from the Cretaceous Inland Sea that covered a large section of Queensland millions of years ago.

Outback Queensland Masters IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Outback Queensland Masters, Outback Queensland

Australia’s most remote golfing event, the Outback Queensland Masters sees a brigade of amateur golfers trek more than 2,000km across Outback Queensland. In 2023 the tournament stretches from St George to Mount Isa with players taking to the ‘green’ in Cunnamulla, Quilpie, Richmond and Karumba in between. The final stop in Mount Isa sees players take a swing at the coveted Million Dollar Hole-In-One challenge – making the event one of the richest amateur golf tournaments in the world. Those following the event route have plenty of time between tee-offs to visit other country towns like Windorah, Winton, Longreach, Hughenden and Cloncurry.

Enjoying Zillie Falls. IMAGE Tourism and Events Queenslan d

Atherton Tablelands Waterfall Circuit, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

If there was ever a time to ignore the advice of 90s pop sensation TLC, it’s in the Atherton Tablelands where we say DO go chasing waterfalls! The Atherton Tablelands lie in the hinterland southwest of Cairns, boasting freshwater creeks and lofty mountain plateaus that produce gushingly gorgeous waterfalls. The Waterfall Circuit starts and ends in Cairns with stops at some of the most photogenic cascades in the country, such as Josephine Falls, Tchupala Falls, Nandroya Falls, Millaa Millaa Falls and Zillie Falls. Break up the trip with a walk through the canopy at Mamu Tropical Skywalk, cool off at Lake Eacham, or refuel at the many local producers dotted throughout the highlands. Continue the rainforest theme staying in treehouse accommodation at Canopy Rainforest Tree Houses and Wildlife Sanctuary and Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat.

Exploring the rainforest around the waterfall IMAGE Tourism and Events Queensland

Glamping eco tent on Stradbroke Island. Photo: Kerry Heaney

Food Lovers Lockyer Valley Road Trip

Explore the Lockyer Valley on a two-day road trip from Brisbane with plenty of things to do, all within just an hour’s drive.  You’ll eat the best country cakes, fill your esky with country meat, skip back to the 1950s, buy some great greens, enjoy a country breakfast, visit a sustainable farm and a sheep cheeserie.  The Lockyer Valley road trip would appeal to food lovers, those who love to browse and is gold for anyone with a penchant for the past. Accommodation options range from lux homesteads to budget hotels.

Beach Lovers North Stradbroke Island Road Trip

Take a North Stradbroke Island road trip and explore the secluded beaches and relaxed lifestyle of Straddie. The road trip takes you right around the island sharing the best places to eat and drink. Stradbroke is a wonderfully relaxing place to visit and I highly recommend the island for beach lovers and surfers.  There are some wonderful walks and beautiful nature spots as well as some shopping gems.

Noosa Country Food Trail Day Trip

Change up your Noosa beach experience with some food culture and a day trip into the hinterland. This Noosa Country Food Trail is a deep dive into an extensive deep produce bowl, and you’ll find where the locals eat. The route takes you on the backroads where you’ll stop for farmhouse food, local coffee, a distillery, and the freshest local produce.  Pack your cooler and fill it with roadside produce, pastured eggs, local beef, and seasonal fruit. Don’t forget small change for the roadside stalls, and check the map for directions.

Take a Brisbane road trip to Noosa and explore the back roads. Photo: Kerry Heaney

Granite Belt Food Trail at Your Leisure

You’ll find exceptional eats and drinks in this top 10 Granite Belt food lover’s guide.  Expect to browse cellar doors, eat the best apple pie, find local cheese and taste local beer, and don’t start me on the strawberries.  The Granite Belt is a great Queensland road trip for food lovers but there are also cute shops to browse and a soaperie that will have you wondering how much more you can fit in your car.

I’ve got your route all sorted with a map for an easy Granite Belt food lover’s road trip .

Five Day Cairns to Cape Tribulation Road Trip

Hugging the coast between two Tropical North Queensland World Heritage areas, the Great Barrier Reef Drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is one of Australia’s prettiest coast roads.  It is also a bit curvy so if you a prone to motion sickness take it slowly, which also gives you a better chance to enjoy the view.

This is a trip that you can take in under three hours or spend three days exploring the many stops along the way.  Expect crocodile farms and hang gliders, tropical rainforest and mysterious mountain streams, local food markets and foods to try all along the route.  I love exploring this part of the world and highly recommend making the trip to Cairns and setting out to explore the Great Barrier Reef Drive.

Enjoy spectacular views on this Queensland drive from Port Douglas to Cairns. Photo: Kerry Heaney

One day Atherton Tableland Explorer

Base yourself in the glorious environment of Palm Cove and take a day trip around the Atherton Tableland on this Queensland Road trip. You will see platypus, sample local liqueur and cheeses, and pick your own strawberries. This is the deli of the tropics and a great food bowl to explore.

How many days for your Queensland road trip?

It’s really up to you how much you stretch out these Queensland drive itineraries on a road trip from Brisbane.  I can tell you that there were plenty of things to do in each destination that I wish I could have added to the list.  A Queensland road trip without a time limit? Now that sounds like fun!

Where’s your next Queensland drive going to be? There is much to explore on Australia’s east coast and planning your itinerary will mean you don’t miss any gems.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Mastodon (Opens in new window)

Share your thoughts on Eat, Drink, and Be Kerry! We'd love to hear from you. Join the conversation and let us know what's on your mind. Cancel reply

• Heavenly Fresh Fig with Goat Cheese, Prosciutto, and Honey Bliss
• 9 Unique Things to do in Outback Queensland This Year
• Culinary Magic Revealed at The Curated Plate Food Festival on the Sunshine Coast
• Transform Ordinary Eggs into Savoury Easter Egg Chicks!
• Dive into the Decadence of Our Irresistible Easter Chocolate Tart!

Eat Drink and Be Kerry is your trusted source for unbiased and expertly curated content that feeds your curiosity and enriches your culinary and travel experiences.

At Eat Drink and Be Kerry, our editorial policy is founded on the principles of authenticity, quality, and trustworthiness. We are dedicated to providing our readers with unbiased, informative, and engaging content that revolves around the world of food, travel, and culinary experiences.

Our team of passionate writers and experts adheres to rigorous editorial standards, ensuring that every piece of content is meticulously researched, fact-checked, and free from external influence.

We maintain editorial independence, which means our opinions and recommendations are driven solely by the merit and relevance of the subject matter. Transparency is paramount to us, and we clearly disclose any potential conflicts of interest or sponsorships to maintain the integrity of our content.

© Kerry Heaney and Eat Drink and be Kerry. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kerry Heaney and Eat Drink and be Kerry with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland © Tourism Australia

14-day Tropical North Queensland drive

Drive from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown, through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests to golden outback savannah, taking in tropical Queensland at its finest.

By Alissa Jenkins

Loop around lush Tropical North Queensland from  Cairns , gateway to the  Great Barrier Reef , up to Cooktown, rich with Aboriginal and early European history and down to  Townsville , to explore ancient rainforests, fruit plantations, gold mining towns and secluded hideaways along the way.

What to expect

• Snorkel around the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef
• Walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest to Mossman Gorge
• See the world’s largest collection of prehistoric rock art in Laura
• Time: 14 days
• Distance: 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Cairns 

Day 1: Cairns to Port Douglas

Flames of the Forest, Port Douglas, Queensland © Flames of the Forest

After breakfast at  Caffiend , one of many hip cafés along Grafton Street in Cairns, drive 68 kilometres (42 miles) north towards  Port Douglas . Fifteen minutes out of Cairns, exit the Captain Cook Highway at Smithfield to take the  Skyrail Rainforest Cableway  for an incredible 90-minute ride over World Heritage-listed rainforest. Hop off Skyrail at the Kuranda terminal, stretch your legs with a stroll around the charming village of Kuranda and then board the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway  for the 60-minute return trip to Smithfield. 

Back on the road, drive beside a golden chain of beaches to affluent Palm Cove. Hungry travellers should head to Palm Cove's award-winning  Nu Nu Restaurant , which showcases Queensland seafood with a subtle Asian twist and serves lunch until 4pm.

Continuing along the Cook Highway, stop halfway at Rex Lookout for magical views over the Coral Sea beaches, before reaching Port Douglas. Peruse the chic boutiques along Macrossan Street before a sunset stroll along the white sands of Four Mile Beach up to Flagstaff Hill Lookout. Don't miss a truly enchanting meal with the  Flames of the Forest Aboriginal Cultural Experience , where you'll venture into the rainforest near Port Douglas to indulge in a seven-dish banquet as your Kuku Yalanji hosts share music, ceremony and storytelling. Spend the night at  Peppers Beach Club , nestled in a garden setting just steps from the beach.

Day 2: Port Douglas

Port Douglas, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

If you're travelling through Port Douglas on a Sunday, check out the weekly markets which offer everything from arts and crafts, coffee and jewellery. 

Spend the day on board a snorkelling and diving cruise of the Great Barrier Reef. There are several local operators such as Calypso Reef Cruises , Quicksilver Cruises and  Wavelength , each offering daily tours from Reef Marina in Port Douglas. Whichever you choose, you can expect a memorable introduction to the world’s largest coral reef, home to more than 3,000 individual reef systems and coral cays, plus hundreds of stunning islands with sun-soaked beaches. Underneath the water’s surface though, is a kaleidoscope of coral and other aquatic life including tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and giant clams, which you can swim with. After a day on the water, wine and dine amid a tropical garden at the well-known  Nautilus Restaurant .

Day 3: Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, Mossman Gorge Centre, Queensland © Tourism Australia 

Continue north for one and a half hours along Cape Tribulation Road and explore the region’s other icon, the  Daintree National Park , home to the majestic Mossman Gorge. Start with a trip to the Mossman Gorge Centre , the gateway to the rainforest. Meander through the ancient forest on your own along the  Rainforest Circuit Track , which begins at Rex Creek bridge and entails a 2.5-kilometre (1.5-mile) loop with incredible views. Or, gain a deeper connection to the rainforest with a guided Dreamtime walk . Your experience begins with a traditional smoking welcome ceremony before you stroll along private paths with your Kuku Yalanji guide, who will share their traditions and culture passed down over thousands of years.

After you've explored the forest, book in for an afternoon Daintree River cruise  through mangrove estuaries and past tropical birds and crocodiles, before continuing the drive for another hour or so to Cape Tribulation. Check into  Cape Trib Beach House  for the night which is set on seven acres (2.8 hectares). Here you can swim in the resort pool, get a massage on the private beach, feast at the on-site restaurant and bar and attend nightly bonfires on the beach.

Day 4: Cape Tribulation to Cooktown

Grassy Hill Lookout, Cooktown, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Wake up with a 45-minute walk to Cape Tribulation lookout on Cape Tribulation Beach, right next to the resort. Next, drive north for an hour to see the sacred  Bloomfield (Wujal Wujal) Falls  with a guide, and learn about the cultural significance of this area for Indigenous Australians. Watch out for crocodiles though, they’ve been known to sunbake on the nearby rocks. Venture into  Black Mountain National Park  and see the imposing mountain range of black granite boulders, stacked precariously on top of another, defying gravity. Then continue north on the Mulligan Highway for 20 minutes to historic Cooktown, and climb to the top of Grassy Hill in the town centre for a breathtaking view. Rest for the night at the four-star  Sovereign Resort Hotel .

Day 5: Cooktown to Mount Mulligan

Mt Mulligan Lodge, Mount Mulligan, Queensland © Mt Mulligan Lodge

Visit  James Cook Museum , housed in a stunning 19th century former convent, for a look into Cooktown’s remarkable history. When you're ready to depart Cooktown, you can choose between driving just over four hours to Ravenshoe, or taking a detour to Mt Mulligan Lodge . Located in the ruggedly beautiful Mount Mulligan, this all-inclusive outback station is all about quintessential Australian experiences combined with effortless luxury. Spend a few days here indulging in the lodge's outback excursions, like private picnics and gold mine tours, or simply relax in the landscape of rolling hills and ancient rock formations. 

Day 6: Mount Mulligan to Malanda

Millaa Millaa Falls, Millaa Millaa, Queensland © Scott Pass

Say goodbye to Mount Mulligan before driving just over two hours to Malanda. Stop for lunch in Atherton, then explore the nearby  Hallorans Hill Conservation Park . Walk 40 minutes to the top of extinct volcano Hallorans Hill to see the tableland’s unique mosaic landscape and geological formations. Before you reach your final destination, take the short detour to see Millaa Millaa Falls , a magnificent waterfall surrounded by lush green rainforest. Drive just 25 more minutes to end the day in Malanda, and spend the night under the rainforest canopy at Sharlynn by the river . Hallorans Hill Conservation Park

Day 7: Malanda to Undara Volcanic National Park

Undara Experience, Undara, Queensland © Rowan Bestmann, Tourism and Events Queensland

Head southwest for 50 minutes to  Millstream Falls , Australia’s widest single-drop waterfall, for a brief stop before spending the morning at  Innot Hot Springs , relaxing in the therapeutic mineral waters that fill its six public pools. In the afternoon, drive just over one-hour to  Undara Volcanic National Park , home to the remnants of the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcano. Allow one and a half hours for the Kalkani Crater rim walk, which takes you up the side of a volcano and offers incredible views over the lava plains and fertile pockets of rainforest. Then sleep under the stars at  Undara Experience , with permanent and powered tents that house comfortable bedding.

Day 8: Undara Volcanic National Park to Charters Towers

Texas longhorn cattle, Charters Towers, Queensland © Melissa Findley, Tourism and Events Queensland

Continue 400 kilometres south (249 miles) to the enchanting outback town of  Charters Towers , where the heritage streetscapes hark back to the gold rush days of the late 19th century. Spend the afternoon just outside of town at Leahton Park, home to the largest herd of pure bred Texas Longhorn cattle in Australia. Buckle up for a  Texas Longhorn Wagon Tour  then explore the custom saddlery shop. Afterwards, spend the evening at the historic Civic Club, play billiards on one of two 100-year-old tables and don't forget to make a booking for their famous Friday night barbecue.

Day 9: Charters Towers to Townsville

Museum of Underwater Art, Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Follow the Flinders Highway east for 125 kilometres (78 miles) before detouring to  Bowling Green Bay National Park , home to rugged mountains, wetlands, salt pans and mangrove forests. Walk one kilometre (0.6 miles) return to Alligator Creek lookout for a photogenic canopy-level view of the creek, before a quick dip in the nearby swimming area.

Continue to Townsville in time for lunch at  The Beet Bar  for superfood bowls, salads and juices that celebrate local produce. Explore the phenomenal Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) , the Southern Hemisphere's first underwater art museum, before whiling away the rest of the afternoon along the Strand, a palm-tree studded promenade with beaches, bars and restaurants. Later, indulge in some balmy nightlife on Flinders Street East at  Shaw & Co  or  Cactus Jack’s .

Day 10: Townsville to Ingham

Little Crystal Creek, Paluma Range National Park, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Follow the Bruce Highway north for about an hour before taking a break in the Mount Spec section of  Paluma Range National Park . Walk to McClellands lookout for spectacular views over the islands and coastline. Cool off at nearby Little Crystal Creek before driving the remaining 45 minutes to Ingham, a sugar cane town with a distinctly Mediterranean feel thanks to the Italian and Spanish migrants who came here at the end of the 19th century to work in the cane fields. Linger over lunch at eternal favourite  Casa Pasta  then walk off the authentic Italian fare by joining the signposted Hinchinbrook Heritage Walk, between Ingham and neighbouring Halifax. For a fittingly European-inspired stay,  Villa Veron  is a charming bed and breakfast which also hosts an Italian festival every year.

Day 11: Ingham to Cardwell

Zoe Falls, Hinchinbrook Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia

If time permits, drive about one hour west of Ingham to see  Wallaman Falls , Australia's highest single-drop waterfall. 

Drive just 20 minutes to the coastal town of Lucinda where you can board a  ferry to Hinchinbrook Island  for the day. Australia’s largest island national park is covered in mountains, fragile heathland, tropical rainforest and mangrove fringes. An island day tour takes you down the picturesque Hinchinbrook Channel before arriving at Zoe Bay on the island’s southeastern side. From the beach landing, take a short walk through rainforest to the sparkling freshwater pool at the base of Zoe Falls, an idyllic swimming hole. On the way back to Lucinda, watch out for the six-kilometre (four-mile) sugar loading jetty, the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. Once back on land, drive 45 minutes north to Cardwell.

Day 12: Cardwell to Mission Beach

Mission Beach, Queensland © Chris McLennan, Tourism and Events Queensland

Pack a picnic and spend the morning exploring tropical  Tully Gorge National Park . From the camping area, stroll along the Butterfly walk (it’s renowned for the Ulysses butterflies that flit along this passage between September and February) through World Heritage-listed rainforest to the gorge. Tully River is popular with whitewater rafters and you can see these thrill seekers take on the rapids from Flip Wilson lookout. Continue east for an hour to Mission Beach and check into  Castaways Resort  before ditching the car for a bike and cycling along the city’s foreshore, including the  Ulysses Link Walking Track , past artworks depicting the area’s Aboriginal and European history. If you're seeking a thrill, take to the skies with Skydive Australia to soar above white-sand beaches, tropical rainforest and the awe-inspiring reef.

8 must-do reef experiences near Cairns

Day 13: Mission Beach to Innisfail

Paronella Park, Mena Creek, Queensland © Mark Clinton, Tourism and Events Queensland

Turn off Bruce Highway to visit  Paronella Park , a labour of love built in 1935 by Spanish immigrant José Paronella and inspired by Catalan castles. Set on five hectares (12.4 acres) of tropical gardens beside Mena Creek, you can peruse the castle’s architecture and ingenious hydroelectric system, as well as a waterfall, gardens, museum and café. Then drive half an hour west to the spectacular  Mamu Tropical Skywalk , featuring a 350-metre (0.2-mile) elevated walkway above the treetops. Finish the day in the bustling sugar town of Innisfail.

Day 14: Innisfail to Cairns

Josephine Falls, Wooroonooran National Park, Queensland © Colyn Huber, Tourism and Events Queensland

Drive half an hour west again into  Wooroonooran National Park , home to fascinating native critters such as double-eyed fig parrots and musky rat-kangaroos, as well as Mt Bartle Frere, Queensland’s highest mountain. Follow the signs to Henrietta Creek Campground where you'll find the beginning of the  Nandroya Falls circuit . Allow four hours to complete the walk, which takes you across the ridge between Henrietta and Douglas creeks, before winding down to the spectacular, double-tiered Nandroya Falls. Take the long track back to the campground and enjoy a rainforest dip at Douglas Creek. Back on the road, continue north along the Bruce Highway to return to Cairns, gateway to the islands, rainforest and reef of Tropical North Queensland.

Explore more nearby

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.  Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

• New Zealand (English)
• United States (English)
• Canada (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• India (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• France (Français)
• Italia (Italiano)
• 中国大陆 (简体中文)

*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

Live chat Online Chat now

• Site Navigation
• Page Content

• © RACQ
• Privacy Statement

QUEENSLAND EAST COAST ITINERARY GUIDE

Queensland is the country’s second biggest state by land area (after Western Australia) stretching for over 2,500 km from north to south and 2,000 from west to east. We have already talked about Tropical North Queensland in another post , thus in this article we will focus on the main destinations along Queensland’s East Coast , roughly between the cities of Mackay in the centre and Gold Coast in the south. Here’s our Queensland East Coast itinerary guide.

MUST SEE ALONG QUEENSLAND EAST COAST

We did a two-week-long road trip to cover the 1,100 km separating the forementioned cities. In 15 days you should have enough time to take it easy, stop at some places for two or three nights, without having to drive more than 200 km towards the next destination. If you are coming from abroad to this part of Australia , both Brisbane and Gold Coast airports have international flights daily to fly you straight to Queensland .

If you are coming from Tropical North Queensland and you have been reading our article and following our itinerary , you’ll likely be driving through the town of Mackay, some 150km south to the Whitsundays . And if you do stop here overnight, you could head inland and check out Eungella National Park , home to the longest continual stretch of sub-tropical rainforest in Australia, or even spend the night in a camping site there, provided you have your own RV.

ROCKHAMPTON

I promised earlier that you wouldn’t have had to drive crazy amount of kilometres daily, well I wasn’t totally sincere, this is Australia after all! The section between Queensland East Coast top tourist destinations of The Whitsundays and Fraser Island is almost 900 km long ! Don’t worry, you don’t have to drive that distance in one day, this is exactly what this guide is made for, to suggest places where to stop along the way.

It’s a good idea to stop around Rockhampton , 336 km from Mackay. You will have driven for hours along a boring road, also known as the Fatigue Zone , where your best entertainments are warning signs like “Rest or R.I.P.” and “Survive this drive” , so yeah you definitely need a break when finally getting to Rocky .

TIP: Head to the Botanic Gardens which include a free entry wildlife area where you can spot typical Australia flora&fauna, like kangaroos, crocodiles, koalas, emus… The visitors info point located at Tropic of Capricorn line is worth a visit for more suggestions. EXTRA TIP: If for some reason you didn’t make it to Whitsundays or you want to have another island experience, The Keppels are your go to destination. Just a short 30-minute ferry ride away, you can choose between Great Keppel and North Keppel , where you can spend a day at the beach, walking around the island, and camping overnight too.

1770 & AGNES WATER

Carrying on for 200 km southwards, another “Break the drive, stay alive” worthy spot are the coastal towns of 1770 and Agnes Water , often mentioned in pairs for their similarity and proximity. The correct way of writing the former would be Seventeen Seventy , but it is peculiar and funny enough to actually name a place with a number, or a date in this case. The year 1770 was when Captain Cook made landfall for the first time in today’s Queensland, and the bay where he landed was therefore named after the date. Today, Seventeen Seventy has mainly a tourist purpose, with less than 100 residents living all year long, but a few camping and accommodating facilities . Whereas locals instead live in nearby village of Agnes Water , also RV-friendly with numerous secluded bays and beaches. TIP: head to Bustard Bay Lookout for great views on the Coral Sea on one side and the bay on the other, exactly where Captain’s Cook Endeavour ship anchored 240 years ago. SURFING TIP: want to learn how to surf? Agnes Water is the place to do it, with some of the cheapest surfing schools in the country, and the ideal waves for beginners like us!

The busy industrial and farming area of Bundaberg will welcome you back to civilization, or have you saying goodbye to tranquility, depending how you see it. You made it through the long Fatigue Zone and are almost in gorgeous Sunshine Coast. Bundy is home to acres of sugar cane fields , leading Australia in sugar export and known countrywide for Bundaberg Rhum. As in the Atherton Tablelands in Tropical North Queensland , several varieties of fruit are grown here and foreign backpackers contribute massively to the industry, working seasonally in between their travels. Not much of a tourist hotspot, however very close to our next stop.

HERVEY BAY & RAINBOW BEACH

100 km from Bundaberg – yes 100 km is very close in Australia, literally just behind the corner – Hervey Bay is the first hub for tours to Fraser Island , which we will talk about later. Humpback whale watching is very popular here as well, the migration season goes from July to November. On the opposite end Rainbow Beach is the other gateaway to Fraser Island. Similarly to Hervey Bay, it is worth a visit for its own beauty, the name of the town itself includes the word “beach” for a valid reason. We like to mention Tin Can Bay as well, not far to Rainbow Beach, where you have the chance to see river-estuarine dolphins every morning . If this wasn’t enough reasons to visit, gorgeous State Forests and National Parks surround the immediate inland side of these lovely bays, making it worth a drive even if you are not heading to Fraser Island. TIP: Rainbow Beach is popular for bbq’s and picnic right on the beach, gear up and bring supplies to enjoy a full day on this large strand.

FRASER ISLAND

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Queensland – you probably have already heard of this huge wild island – Fraser Island is the biggest sand island in the world . Rainforests, mangroves, swamps and sand dunes constitute the surface. Despite the absence of roads, driving is actually one of the most exciting experiences to try on Fraser Island , with your own 4WD or joining one of the many daily tours from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach. Camping is also an option in order to spend one or more nights in this unique location. Perhaps the only downside is that it has become too mainstream and sometimes overcrowded. See Moreton Island for alternatives.

NOOSA – SUNSHINE COAST

The name couldn’t be more welcoming and appropriate, Sunshine Coast is a true paradise . The town of Noosa Heads is the perfect holiday destination, having something for everybody: accommodation along golden beaches, nightlife, hikes, National Parks, festivals, outdoor activities, etc… To escape the crowds just head south of Noosa to find your own quiet place such as around Mooloolaba and Caloundra towns. TIP: don’t miss Noosa National Park to witness amazing coastal views along the seaside and an incredible wildlife sanctuary inland, ideal for hikes and push bike rides.

If you have been travelling on the road all the way from Cairns to Brisbane, getting to Queensland’s capital gives you a true feeling of arrival. A modern vibrant city with great infrastructure, shops, parks, walks, and an overall exciting vibe. It’s easy to spend days in Brissie , visiting some museums, strolling along the river walks and South Bank swimming pools , or just sightseeing popular landmarks like Story Bridge and the City Botanic Gardens , all while still enjoying the warm weather all year long .

MORETON ISLAND

Moreton Island , at day tripping distance from Brisbane, is your alternative if you skipped or missed Fraser Island. Very similar in morphology, it’s the third sand island in the world per dimensions, and offers pretty much the same outdoor opportunities as Fraser does, surely in a less visited setting . Besides, several wreck ships in the shallow waters make Moreton Island a safe and popular diving spot. TIP: ferries from Brisbane to Moreton Island take 75 minutes one way, departing from Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba.

Once more, the name here is pretty self explanatory. An endless strand is home to hundreds of hotels and skyscrapers in the city of Gold Coast , which is sometimes compared to Miami or Dubai for its imposing skyline against the sea. Come here for nothing but a relaxing hotel+beach stay . Being the last main urbanized area before crossing to New South Wales, Gold Coast is last on the list of our Queensland East Coast itinerary guide. We hope you enjoy your travels, and do let us know your thoughts in the comments!

READ ALSO: What to do in Hobart, Tasmania Best cheap food in Singapore

HOTELS  – WHERE TO STAY IN QUEENSLAND?

• You can book all accommodation in Australia with free cancellation  here.
• The town of Rockhampton has plenty of motels to stop for one night on your way.
• Agnes Water: we stayed at Workman’s Beach Camp Ground , a laid back area by the beach, for just 9$ per person, per day.
• Rainbow Beach Holiday Park is ideal for campers coming in or out Fraser Island, with both cabins and camp ground facilities.
• Noosa Sea Scouts is well located if you have an RV, if you prefer a resort check here what’s available in Noosa Heads.
• We had a fantastic 4-day city stay at brand new Brisbane Skytower Apartments , right in CBD, we got a deal for less than 100AUD(60€)/night.
• As mentioned before, Gold Coast is a futuristic city on the beachside, browse here the endless offer of accommodation.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

• Rent your private car to be free to create your schedule and reach any place in Australia. The cheapest options start from 19€/day, and fuel in Australia is less than 1€ per litre! (1.50AUD). Check your best rental car options in Australia here.
• Tours/Private bus: check CoolDingoTour for Fraser Island, recommended for 18’s to 35’s. If you need help planning your trip to Australia, have a look at Tropical Turtle Travel , specialized on creating personalized itineraries all around Australia and more, and don’t forget to use our code MILLION-TTT for 50$ off your next trip!
• Airplane:  Brisbane and Gold Coast have both domestic and international destinations daily. Singapore and Bali, Indonesia, are the closest international hubs.

WEATHER – WHEN TO GO TO QUEENSLAND?

One of the best aspects of southeastern Queensland is the perfect climate : temperatures rarely go lower than 10°C in July or higher than 30-35°C in January. On top of that, the sun is shining for more than 300 days a year , reason why it is referred to as The Sunshine State .

DO I NEED A TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes you do. Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Even if you trust yourself, you can’t always trust others. Better safe than sorry!  Get your quote here.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

As you found this post useful...

Follow us on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

You may also enjoy:

Road trip to cape tribulation – australia, what to see&do at uluru (ayers …, cairns, tropical north queensland – australia, what to see in hobart, the capital …, leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

SEARCH OUR BLOG

Subscribe to our youtube, disclaimer & privacy.

This site uses affiliate links. If you buy products following our links, we get a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read our full Disclaimer & Privacy policy here.

Instagram @amilliontravels