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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?

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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.

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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.

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• 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!

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• 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

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• Destinations
• Travel Guides

Queensland road trip: a two-week itinerary

Spencer Samaroo

• Queensland road trip

Queensland, with its sun-kissed beaches, pristine rainforests, and vibrant cities, is a veritable paradise for road trippers. What can be better than embarking on a coastal road trip through this gem of an Australian state, topping up your tan, or surfing at some of the best beaches in the world and enjoying seafood so fresh, it's practically dripping with ocean water?

From the bustling streets of the Gold Coast to the tropical city of Cairns and possibly beyond, this 15-day road trip itinerary is your ticket to uncovering the best that Queensland's coastline has to offer.

So, if you are looking for adventure and you've got the time, allow us to provide you with a roadmap for an unforgettable journey along the eastern edge of the Sunshine State.

How many days should I spend in Queensland?

This two-week itinerary takes you from the Gold Coast all the way up to Cairns in Tropical North Queensland - over 1800 km away. The route goes solely along the Bruce Highway (M1) - which is named after Harry Bruce, a popular former federal and Queensland politician.

Although two weeks might seem like a long time, it barely scratches the surface of what this fantastic state offers in terms of sites, attractions, and activities. In other words, the more time you can devote to exploring Queensland, the better. You'll also need a couple of extra days at the beginning of the trip to spend in the Gold Coast.

You'll obviously need a car to complete this itinerary. Luckily, hire cars are available from most major car rental companies, including Hertz, Budget, Avis, and Enterprise, along with some smaller ones. Most have offices at Brisbane and the Gold Coast airports and many locations in those regions. It's best to best to book a rental car in advance, especially in peak seasons.

The Gold Coast

While this road trip starts from the dazzling Gold Coast, we are going to assume that you have already spent some time touring around the area. This vibrant region is renowned for its sun-drenched beaches, world-class surfing spots, and lively atmosphere, so there is plenty to see here.

Start from the Coolangatta, the southernmost part of the Gold Coast, where you can soak up the laid-back beach culture, enjoy some quality coffee at one of the area's hipster cafes or take a stunning coastal walk along Point Danger, where you might even see dolphins frolicking below.

As you venture further north, Surfer's Paradise awaits, offering a bustling hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining. Surfer's Paradise Beach is an iconic destination for sun-seekers, and you can ascend the SkyPoint Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Other beach areas you might want to visit on the Gold Coast before starting your Queensland road trip include Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, Mermaid Beach and Kirra.

Brisbane (2 nights)

The first stop on your coastal road trip should be Brisbane - the dynamic capital of Queensland.

This rapidly evolving city blends a vibrant urban lifestyle with a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe. Here, you'll find various attractions, including the South Bank Parklands, which offer lush green spaces, riverside dining, and cultural events.

For those wanting a spot of culture, the Queensland Museum and Art Gallery provide insight into the state's rich history and artistic endeavours. Elsewhere, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens offer a serene escape.

One of the best ways to take in the beauty of the city's skyline is on the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, while the lively Eagle Street Pier is a fantastic spot for dining by the river.

Additionally, Brisbane has diverse neighbourhoods - from trendy West End to historic New Farm - that provide plenty of dining and entertainment options for every taste.

Stay at the Royal Albert Hotel in the heart of the city.

Sunshine Coast (2 nights)

Heading north from Brisbane, your coastal road trip brings you to the Sunshine Coast , a paradise for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers. This region is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and charming coastal towns.

Noosa Heads, a highlight of the Sunshine Coast, boasts a National Park with pristine trails and captivating coastal views. The town also has one of only two Everglades systems in the world. The other is the famous one in Florida. Whilst in Noosa, take the time to stroll along the iconic Hastings Street for a unique and upscale shopping and fine dining experience.

A little south, the Sunshine Coast hinterland features the Glass House Mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like climbing Mt Ngungen. Remember to visit the iconic Australia Zoo, made famous by the late Steve Irwin, where you can get up close and personal with various wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles.

Stay at the Caribbean Noosa in a self-contained studio close to beaches, shops and restaurants.

Hervey Bay and K'gari (2 nights)

A couple of hours up from the Sunshine Coast, you'll find Hervey Bay, a charming destination with a rich natural heritage and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. It's most renowned as the 'Whale Watching Capital of the World'. So, if the idea of seeing these magnificent creatures excites you, make sure you schedule a visit here.

Hervey Bay offers visitors the unique opportunity to witness humpback whales during their annual migration, typically from July to November. The stunning K'gari acts as a natural barrier, creating calm and sheltered waters perfect for whale-watching excursions .

Beyond its marine marvels, Hervey Bay boasts a beautiful foreshore, including Urangan Pier and its esplanade, where you can enjoy leisurely walks, fishing, and dining.

Formerly known as Fraser Island, K'gari is a must-visit destination for any Queensland itinerary. Easy to get to from Hervey Bay, this natural wonder is the world's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As a paradise for nature lovers, it offers an extraordinary combination of white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and striking freshwater lakes, with Lake McKenzie being a major highlight. You can visit on a day trip from Hervey Bay, but it's well worth spending a day or two there if you have the time.

The island also boasts unique attractions like the Maheno Shipwreck - a haunting reminder of the island's maritime history. The best way to explore and appreciate its beauty is by a 4x4 vehicle or on a guided tour (which you can book from Hervey Bay).

Stay at Fraser Island Beach Houses in a villa near the beach.

Bundaberg (1 night)

On the way to Rockhampton, it's worth popping into Bundaberg - a town with a delightful mix of history, culture, and unique attractions.

This vibrant city is renowned for being the home of the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery, where you can take an intriguing tour and discover the art of crafting this Australian spirit.

Elsewhere, Mon Repos Conservation Park is a highlight, offering a chance to witness sea turtles nesting and hatching during the nesting season (from November to March).

Stay at the Koola Beach Apartments near the beach. Or, if you want to be in the middle of town, pick the Burnett Riverside Hotel instead.

Rockhampton (1 night)

Rockhampton is just a three-hour drive from Bundaberg. Known as the 'Beef Capital of Australia', it is a city where history, culture, and the rugged Australian outback converge.

This charming city, situated on the Tropic of Capricorn, offers a unique blend of experiences including the state's largest collection of heritage buildings . For those intrigued by geology, the Capricorn Caves are a must-visit destination, featuring intricate limestone formations and guided tours that delve into the geological history of the region.

The Dreamtime Cultural Centre provides insights into Indigenous Australian culture and history, while Kershaw Gardens offers a stoic escape with beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and a unique zoo.

Moreover, as you explore the city, you'll discover its strong connection to the cattle industry, with frequent cattle sales and events showcasing the importance of beef in the region.

Stay at CocoBrew Boutique Apartments for modern, air-conditioned accommodation with patios.

Mackay to Airlie Beach (2 nights)

Continuing your coastal adventure, Mackay offers a scintillating blend of tropical beauty and a vibrant arts scene.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Queensland, this city is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and captivating cultural experiences. One of Mackay's standout attractions is the Bluewater Lagoon, a free water park in the heart of the city, perfect for cooling off and relaxation.

The Mackay Botanic Gardens boasts a vast collection of native and exotic plants for those passionate about nature, while Eungella National Park offers a chance to encounter unique Australian wildlife, including platypuses, in their natural habitat.

As the gateway to the world-famous Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is well worth a visit. Located just a two-hour drive from Mackay, this vibrant coastal town - located along the Coral Sea - is a paradise for water sports lovers and anyone seeking a perfect beach escape or a bit of adventure.

Airlie Beach is also an ideal starting point for day trips to the Whitsunday Islands , where you can enjoy pristine beaches, snorkelling, and breathtaking natural beauty - including the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, which TripAdvisor voted as the best beach in the world a couple of years ago.

Shute Harbour is another must-visit destination, known for its tranquil surroundings and as the starting point for many island excursions. Alternatively, if you just want to chill, the Airlie Beach Lagoon is a popular spot for relaxation and sunbathing, offering stunning views of the azure waters.

Stay at the Riviera Mackay near the Bluewater Lagoon swimming area or relax at the Freedom Shores Resort on Airlie Beach.

Townsville and Mission Beach ( 2 nights)

Townsville is an up-and-coming city with a relaxed tropical vibe worth checking out before heading further north.

One of the main drawcards is The Strand, a picturesque waterfront promenade offering stunning views of Magnetic Island and the shimmering waters of the Coral Sea. You can also do a tour of the island if you want to see it up close. Additionally, the Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium provides an educational experience about the world's largest coral reef system.

Mission Beach is a tropical haven nestled between lush rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef . It is an idyllic coastal destination that offers a serene and unspoiled environment, so it is a perfect retreat for those who love beaches and nature.

The golden sands of Mission Beach stretch for miles, providing a peaceful setting for sunbathing and swimming. In addition to its pristine beaches, Mission Beach offers easy access to Clump Mountain National Park, where you can embark on scenic rainforest walks and discover abundant unique flora and fauna.

Should you prefer a touch of history and charm, drop on into Paronella Park, a heritage-listed site featuring enchanting gardens, ruins, and a rich historical narrative.

Stay at Mariners North Holiday Apartments near the beach in Townsville.

Cairns (2 nights)

Your Queensland coastal road trip reaches its pinnacle as you arrive in Cairns, a bustling tropical city situated on the northeastern coast of Australia.

Known as the 'Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef', Cairns offers a dynamic mix of experiences, with the world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, at its doorstep. Whilst here, you can embark on snorkelling or diving excursions to witness the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.

The city itself has a lively atmosphere with a charming esplanade, which includes a lagoon swimming pool, bustling night markets, and plenty of beaches within easy driving distance. Elsewhere, you'll find stunning waterfalls and historic towns in the hinterlands, just a short drive from the city.

Stay at Crystalbrook Riley for comfortable rooms and a beautiful pool near the waterfront.

If you have more time - Cooktown and Cape York

For those with more time on their hands who want to extend their trip beyond Cairns, the remaining parts of Queensland will take you into a very remote territory that contrasts markedly with anything you've previously seen.

Cooktown, a town steeped in history and natural beauty, is a remote outpost perched on the edge of Queensland's tropical north - about 326km from Cairns. The town's past intertwines with the exploration of Captain James Cook, who beached the HMB Endeavour here in 1770. Whilst there, you can delve into this history at the Cooktown History Centre and climb to Grassy Hill Lookout for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

At the same time, the Finch Bay area provides an opportunity to relax on beautiful beaches and soak in the tropical ambience of a place where you'll find very few tourists.

If you did continue further north, the culmination of your epic Queensland coastal road trip would be the outlying wilderness of Cape York. Situated at the northernmost tip of Australia's mainland, over 860 km from Cooktown, this pristine and rugged region offers a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure.

It is a land of ancient landscapes, teeming wildlife, and untouched beauty that is so remote you can go for hours without seeing anyone in some places! Getting there from Cooktown can be arduous and challenging - but it rewards you with the experience of standing at the northernmost point of the continent.

Once you arrive at Cape York, you can take in the vast expanse of the Coral Sea and the Arafura Sea. The surrounding waters also offer excellent opportunities for sailing, fishing, and wildlife encounters - including crocodile spotting. You can also visit fascinating indigenous sites and witness some incredible sunrises and starry skies.

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Author - Spencer Samaroo

Spencer is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience in producing written content for tourism-related blogs and businesses. A thalassophile who was afflicted with wanderlust from a young age, he has visited over 40 countries in the world.

An ex-pat Brit who now lives on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, he cites Miami Beach in the USA and Palm Cove in Australia as his favourite travel destinations. Specialising in writing about beach destinations around the world, he would probably bleed sand if you cut his arm open

Last Updated 13 February 2024

Brisbane to Cairns Drive – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: February 9, 2024

Everything you should see, do and experience on the epic Brisbane to Cairns drive! Our Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary will help you with all your planning needs.

One of the most popular road trips in Australia is driving from Brisbane to Cairns along the Queensland Coast.

Many will come from far and wide to experience the beaches, unique attractions, tropical islands and the beautiful Great Barrier Reef.

Famous locations like Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, Mission Beach, Hervey Bay, and more lie along this stretch of the Queensland Coast.

In fact, there is so much to see along this stretch of road you will find it hard to fit everything in!

This is why our expert guide will showcase the best ideas on must-see places and attractions to help you pick and choose what you want to do to plan out your journey.

The capital city of Queensland has plenty to do as well, and Brisbane is the perfect place to begin this adventure!

• If you’re starting from further south, you can also check out our Sydney to Brisbane road trip itinerary .

Table of Contents

What You Will See on a Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip

Tips for driving from brisbane to cairns  , starting in brisbane, brisbane to sunshine coast – 150km, sunshine coast to rainbow beach – 100km, rainbow beach to tin can bay – 32km, tin can bay to fraser island / k’gari – 218km, hervey bay to utopia rock pools – 105km, utopia rock pools to bundaberg – 95km, bonus trip – lady elliot island, bundaberg to agnes water & 1770 – 122km, bonus trip – lady musgrave island, agnes water to rockhampton & yeppoon – 225km, rockhampton to finch hatton gorge – 400km, finch hatton gorge to cape hillsborough – 86km, cape hillsborough to airlie beach – 128km, airlie beach to townsville & magnetic island – 275km, townsville to cardwell spa pools and mission beach – 175km, mission beach to cairns – 140km, brisbane to cairns drive itinerary – the ultimate road trip guide.

The stretch of road covers almost 2500 kilometres (1550 Miles) and is best explored over a 10 to 14-day period. Check out the route on

We recommend travelling just a few hours each time you move on to break up the journey.

Most of the stops will only require one night, but there are a few locations that will be better to enjoy over a couple of nights.

You will pass by natural waterfalls, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and unique wild animal interactions, finishing up in Far North Queensland.

This is why driving from Brisbane to Cairns is just incredible and well worth the adventure.

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.

The Brisbane to Cairns drive is full of wonder and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed when planning.

That’s why to help you decide, I have listed some of the highlights and things to see and do below:

• Beaches and Hikes on the Sunshine Coast
• Swimming in secluded waterfalls around the Atherton Tablelands
• Visiting the white sand beautiful beaches of Mission Beach, Whitehaven Beach, Airlie Beach and Noosa National Park
• Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
• Witnessing the loggerhead turtles laying eggs or their hatchlings scamper down the beach
• Hike through lush rainforests
• Take a gondola ride through the Daintree
• See wild kangaroos feeding on the beach at sunrise

Just to name a few…..

And that’s just one itinerary on our list of the best Queensland road trips ! Check out our guide to see what else made the cut…

We have a few tips for you though to help you better plan your Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary.

• Summer in Australia is December to March, which is also the wet season in North Queensland. Rainy days are great for the waterfalls but might deter you from other outdoor activities due to the humidity.
• Winter in Far North Queensland is May to September, where there are fewer rainy days to enjoy outdoor activities. Days will still be pleasant and warmer as you travel north. Nighttime could get a little cooler, but pack layers or a light jacket to make this more comfortable. The cooler nights will affect you more in the southern towns with an average low of 10 degrees Celsius.
• It’s more flexible to drive from Brisbane to Cairns in your own car or a rental car. A four-wheel drive will open options for more experiences, especially on Fraser Island, as well as being able to visit locations on your own. Rental cars are available from Brisbane and Cairns.
• Travelling as a couple or in a small group will help reduce costs and make the trip more affordable.
• Consider hiring a campervan or RV to save on accommodation costs. There are hundreds of paid and free camping options along this journey and a very popular way to travel. Cabins, motels, hostels, and luxury fixed accommodations are on offer everywhere and are best booked beforehand.
• The entire journey if you stick to the main roads, are on sealed bitumen , but some areas can be busy or a little run down. If you head inland or deeper into some of the national parks on these road trips you’ll need a 4×4.
• Maintenance or road works are always happening on this highway, so allow extra time to get to each stop.
• Service stations, fuel or petrol can be found nearly every 100 kilometres, although some will need to be accessed off the highway and in the small towns. Be prepared and always fill up and get supplies before you need them.
• Expect to spend a little more money in the high tourist hubs like Brisbane, Hervey Bay, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, the Sunshine Coast and Cairns, and if you travel to any of the remote tropical islands.

The Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re traveling directly from Brisbane to Cairns, it will take about 19 hours, which as you can see is a lot of ground to cover.

As Cairns is also an international gateway city, the same suggestions below can be used in reverse if starting your journey as a Cairns to Brisbane to drive.

It’s suggested to explore this route for a minimum of 10 days, but if you have longer then you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied!

There are many different exits off the main A1 highway, both towards the coast and inland. Therefore, this will increase the kilometres travelled and the time it takes to drive the entire journey.

Not only that, but with the Reef covering 1300 kilometres along the coast of this road, you will have day trip options from many of the islands and beach towns as well.

Please note that travelling times may differ depending on road conditions, maintenance, and other unexpected occurrences.

This means when planning out your journey you need to leave plenty of time in between for delays.

There are millions of tourists, locals, and overseas visitors travelling this highway every year, and intermittent road works are very common.

We are starting today from the Queensland capital city of Brisbane, having a population of over 2 million people.

It’s an international gateway city and a brilliant place to get your bearings.

If you have some extra time here then there is plenty to see and do in the area, which you can read more about in this blog post .

Go for a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane, walk to King Island at low tide, visit South Bank, or hike up Mount Coot-Tha for the best views of Brisbane.

They have man-made beaches overlooking the Brisbane River and the city skyline, along with two others at Redcliffe and Ipswich .

Additionally, you can day trip to Bribie Island, Moreton Island, or North Stradbroke Island.

Each Island offers magnificent beaches, four-wheel driving, and both camping and accommodation options.

Or you can head south to the Gold Coast for epic beaches and the famous Surfer’s Paradise nightlife.

The Sunshine Coast will be your first stop for beachside fun and tonnes of tourism options like Noosa and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

If you’re after some great spots to swim, you can choose to check out some of the many beaches along the coast like Caloundra or Maroochydore, or some natural  rock pools at Noosa .

Go searching for some fresh waterholes or waterfalls in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland like Booloumba Falls or Kondalilla Falls.

Feeling a bit more active? Why not enjoy the fresh air and views of the Glasshouse Mountains?

The Glasshouse Mountains are a gorgeous area filled with unique mountains like Mount Ngungun or Mount Beerwah. A Glasshouse Mountains hike is a great way to stretch the legs during your road trip! Or you can opt for more leisurely strolls through Noosa National Park.

This is also where you will find the popular entertainment parks such as the Ginger Factory , or thrill rides at the Aussie World theme park.

Travelling on the Bruce Highway between Brisbane and Cairns, Rainbow Beach is the first gateway port to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island.

But this spot has its own draw cards as well, as 70,000 visitors per year can attest.

It’s known as a small beachside camping and fishing town near the Bruce Highway, where you stretch the legs from your four-wheel drive and go for a spin down the beach.

Rainbow has sites like the sand dunes at the Carlo Sand Blow, freshwater swimming at Poona Lake, Coloured Sands rock formations, and Inskip Point Beach. You will be pleasantly surprised when you visit this vibrant town.

It’s just a short drive to the next destination, so choose where you’d like to stay.

Tin Can Bay is a small little town with a population of just over 2000 people. It’s a very popular holiday destination with several hotels, holiday units, and caravan parks.

Along with being able to rent houseboats and yachts to sail around the region, Tin Can Bay has a fantastic, rare opportunity to see wild humpback dolphins in the early morning.

They are fed under close supervision by the volunteers and guided by animal protection regulations.

There is a minimal charge of $10 per person which covers the cost of the food and cleaning solution.

Everyone loves island life, and K’gari (Fraser Island) allows many different types of travellers to experience it.

Fraser Island, or the traditional Aboriginal name K’gari as it’s now known, has two different resorts, several camping spots, and a huge amount of sites to see while visiting the island.

If you have a 4×4 you’ll be in heaven, as the beaches and sand dunes offer some of the best four-wheel drive adventures in Australia.

With clear freshwater streams like Eli Creek, beachside rock pools like the Champagne Pools, Lake McKenzie, views for miles at Indian Head rocks, and unusual sand formations like the Pinnacles, there’s a lot to see and do here.

You won’t be disappointed stepping off land to visit Fraser Island/K’gari! 

You can access K’gari from Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay.

Pack the car early and keep heading north, because it’s time to hit up one of the most beautiful locations on Australia’s east coast!

Hervey Bay is a quaint little seaside town in southern Queensland and is popular for whale watching day trips to observe humpbacks on their annual migration.

If you happen to be travelling near Hervey Bay from June to November then boat tours to see the whales are a definite “must-do” activity.

The humpback whales pass through Hervey Bay in different-sized pods and put on a big show for the tourists with their breaching acrobatics.

Hervey Bay has a population of over 50,000 people and offers plenty of calm swimming and other water activities like fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking

Additionally Hervey Bay is a popular launching spot to access the beautiful Fraser Island (K’gari) – which is the largest sand island in the world.

Heading a little inland from the actual coastal route, you can visit the town of Biggenden with its gorgeous Utopia Rock Pools.

Located in the Mount Walsh National Park, there’s a hidden  rock pool swimming spot   that the locals have been using for years.

After an easy 30-minute hike through the National Park, you will come to three or four cascading rock pools.

This is best visited in the summertime and especially after some rain. Accommodation options are limited here, but it is easy enough for a day trip from either Hervey Bay or Bundaberg.

With over 90,000 people living in this beachside city, you will be sure to find something to do for everyone.

Best known for producing the world-famous Bundaberg Rum, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and their Ginger Beer, it is also where you’ll find the southernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef.

Additionally there are some amazing beaches like Bargara, Elliott Heads, or Woodgate, or you can take day trips to the offshore islands and enjoy lots of different water-based activities.

Not only that, but they are all conveniently supplied with camping spots, motels, and resort accommodations that are convenient for a road trip!

A favourite with families and retirees, the beaches offer calm waters and nice walking.

This is also a prime location for the  seasonal Turtle nesting   where you can check out the loggerhead turtles laying eggs, or watch the baby turtles make their way down the beach.

Boarding a flight is the only way to get to this isolated island, but the good news is that flights leave from either Brisbane, Hervey Bay, or Bundaberg regularly.

Leave the rental car behind to visit this absolute paradise. The best things to do on the island are based around water activities like snorkelling and diving in the magnificent Southern Great Barrier Reef.

If you prefer to stay on land then you can learn about the bird habitats and history of the island.

If you want a longer stay, there are units, cabins, and glamping tent options at the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort .

Bundaberg is the most popular spot to visit Lady Elliot Island from, with 20-minute flights and daily departures making it perfect for a day trip.

As you head north into central Queensland on this Brisbane to Cairns road trip things start to change pretty dramatically.

You’re now entering the tropics, but before you get there you get to enjoy the gorgeous towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy.

They are both quiet little beachside villages known for their surfing lifestyle on Main Beach, boating, fishing, hiking and swimming.

This is also a prime location to grab some fresh seafood, so pop into the local fish and chip shop to fill up on a delectable meal.

There are many different activities to check out in Agnes Water, like the Paperbark Forest Boardwalk, the LARC Tour (an amphibious boat), and hiking the Red Rock Trails.

Holiday homes and resort accommodations are on offer everywhere in Agnes Water, along with plenty of camping and cabin options.

At 1770 you can look west as the sun begins its dip below the ocean horizon, offering spectacular scenery and natural beauty that isn’t found in many other places in Queensland.

This is also your second (and closer) gateway to swimming with the turtles at Lady Musgrave Island.

Similar to Lady Eliot Island and also located in the Southern Great Barrier Reef is the fantastic Lady Musgrave Island.

It’s only accessible by boat from either Bundaberg or 1770, and while the boat trip from 1770 is shorter, the boat from Bundaberg will have more options for diving activities and sleeping in a glamping bed on top of a pontoon.

Both will have you snorkelling some amazing reef systems and finding lots of turtles.

There is a camping option on the island itself, but it’s extremely off-grid and by permit only.

It’s hard to pick between Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Island, and there’s not a big difference between them.

My recommendation is to weigh up options for either and choose to visit one that suits your road trip budget or timeline.

Driving from Brisbane to Cairns will take you to so many amazing places, and one of the busier yet underrated towns you’ll stop off at along the way is Rockhampton.

Rocky, as it’s known to locals, is the Beef Capital of Australia, so if you love steak you’re in for a treat.

There’s a lot more to do here than just eat though . The underground rock formations at Capricorn Caves are absolutely mesmerising, as is the Mount Archer Skywalk overlooking the city, especially at sunset.

If you drive another 30 minutes towards the Capricorn Coast you will come to the small town of Yeppoon, known as the gateway to the Great Keppel Islands.

A trip out to these islands is fantastic, with lots of marine life, coral reefs and other natural wonders to enjoy.

Back on land you’ll also find the nearby Byfield National Park with lots of wonderful hikes, four-wheel driving beaches, and amazing swimming spots like Stoney Creek. Next, get back on the Bruce Highway and continue your road trip north!

Get off the Bruce Highway between Brisbane and Cairns to head inland for a lovely day adventure near Mackay.

Finch Hatton Gorge has some wonderful hiking, waterfalls to explore and crisp swimming holes to enjoy.

Completing the more popular Araluen Falls hike is a short, three kilometres return.

Additionally, you can choose to complete the rest of the trek to the Wheel of Fire Gorge, which is about five kilometres return.

During high rainfall, access to the car park could be limited without a 4 wheel drive.

Now, this is one stop on our Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary that you won’t want to miss!

About 45 minutes driving north of Mackay you’ll find the Cape Hillsborough National Park. This is a really nice area to explore for many reasons, but the most popular is seeing the morning feeding of the eastern grey kangaroos at sunrise.

Park rangers come down every morning and put out food for them, and there’s no more iconic photo than a kangaroo chilling on the beach!

Although these are wild animals, the rangers keep this activity under strict control due to how many visitors come.

While you can drive in really early, it’s more practical to stay at the Cape Hillsborough Caravan Park the night before.

Airlie Beach really needs to be seen to be believed, and it really is a “must do” stop on your Brisbane to Cairns road trip.

Boasting some of the most beautiful blue waters in Australia, Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and where you’ll find the famous Whitehaven Beach. Airlie Beach is also a great place to enjoy a scenic flight over the UNESCO World Heritage Great Barrier Reef.

The town of Airlie Beach itself is small but has plenty to do to keep all travellers happy.

Half or full-day tours leave from Shute Harbour in Airlie Beach and take you snorkelling or diving on the reef , out to Whitsunday Island and Whitehaven Beach, visiting Hamilton Island or casting your eyes over the ethereal Hill Inlet from the lookout.

Besides Hamilton Island, with its own airport, you can also do a trip to Daydream Island.

In Airlie Beach itself you can swim in the man-made lagoon, walk along the beach or chase fresh water holes at Cedar Creek Falls.

Check out our guide to all the best things to do in Airlie Beach to see what else you can get up to during your road trip.

From Airlie Beach, continue your road trip north to Townsville.

Townsville is the largest city in North Queensland, with a population of close to 200,000 people. That makes it a perfect spot to break up the Australian road trips along the east coast and stock up on supplies (if you need).

There’s a lot of awesome things to do in Townsville , including climbing to the lookout of Castle Hill, heading to Wallaman Falls and visiting some of the nearby national parks.

But in my humble opinion, you need to jump on a ferry and go to Magnetic Island , which is easy to visit for a day trip or stay for a longer period.

Do the Forts Hike to see koalas in the wild, find the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay, go snorkelling in the stunning bays with sea turtles and just chill out at the beaches .

The best way to explore Magnetic Island is by car, and luckily there’s a barge where you can take yours across.

Otherwise you can follow this one day Magnetic Island itinerary to make the most of your short visit.

The Cardwell Spa Pools are popular, local swimming spot where the flowing water runs over the rocks, creating a natural spa effect.

What makes this place special is the gorgeous blue colour of the water. This blue colour is created by phytoplankton, bicarbonates binding to clay, and light refraction in the water.

This has to be seen to be believed, but timing is everything, and it’s best to visit after a small amount of rainfall, without washing it out too much. 

Less than one hour north you’ll find Mission Beach. With its iconic palm trees and spectacular stretch of sand, Mission Beach is often declared to be one of the top Cairns day trips .

Mission Beach is one of Queensland’s most famous beaches, so definitely stop here on your Brisbane to Cairns itinerary.

Popular things to do in Mission Beach include skydiving, swimming, and sunbathing.

Honestly though if you have more time, we highly, HIGHLY recommend booking a day trip out to the reef with Great Barrier Reef Safaris .

Owned and operated by Adele (a marine biologist) and Stuart (an experienced boat captain), this company takes very small groups out to snorkel and explore the gorgeous islands and reefs off of Mission Beach.

We spent a day out with them at the Brook Islands, and well, just check out our video to see how epic it was.

If you book a trip with them let them know NOMADasaurus sent you and say hi from us.

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This is our last stretch on the Brisbane to Cairns drive, but don’t rush – there are still a few sights along the way which could easily take you just over a week to see if you have the time.

From Mission Beach to Cairns you’ll pass sugar cane farms and find the Babinda Boulders, another fantastic swimming river where you can also go kayaking.

South of town there’s a 20-kilometre loop road called the Waterfall Circuit that cuts up through the Atherton Tablelands.

This contains several very different waterfalls for exploring, hiking, and swimming. One of them, Millaa Millaa Falls, just happens to be the most photographed waterfall in Australia.

If you love cascades, don’t miss all these other awesome waterfalls near Cairns .

Cairns itself has a population of 150,000 people, and is a tourism Mecca. In town the Esplanade is lined with bars, restaurants, tropical gardens and a lovely man-made swimming lagoon.

Get out of town though and check out the Kuranda Rail in the surrounding rainforest, or take a different view on the Skyrail Gondola.

Most people will come to Cairns for the water, and it is the best place in Queensland to go and scuba dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef.

Continuing into Far North Queensland you’ll come across the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, a national park spanning mountainous rainforests, gorges, and secluded beaches, home to some of the most pristine natural environment regions in the southern hemisphere.

READ MORE: Check out on the Best Atherton Tableland Waterfalls you must see!

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24 awesome things to do in darwin (2024 guide), the ultimate guide on how to spend one day in sydney [2024], 16 best cairns day trips not to be missed [2024 guide], the 6 best nsw road trips – epic drive itineraries [2024 edition], 1 thought on “brisbane to cairns drive – the perfect road trip itinerary”.

This is fantastic, exactly what I’d been hoping to find, a real road trip itinerary from Brisbaine to Cairns with the highlights that match our to do wish list. Thank you so much. Now to do the bookings for car rental, accommodations, pre book the excursions and places to visit. Any suggestions? Do you think it’s worth doing this trip Brisbaine to Cairns and return the car rental in the North or go Brisbaine Cairns Brisbaine in 14 days?

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• Flightseeing
• National Parks
• Wildlife Experiences
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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...

Exploring Canada: Going North (Part 1)

My Favourite Scenic Roads around the World

How to Do a Scenic Drive through the Glass House Mountains

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!

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Aussies love a good road trip, the endless stretches of shimmering asphalt a ticket to adventure, freedom, and the chance to flex your playlist. And there isn’t a more iconic stretch of road to hit than along the east coast of Australia.

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#1 Gold Coast

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The Gold Coast has something for everyone. Those in the know will start their journey in Coolangatta, the southernmost area of Queensland. Its legendary surf and laid-back vibe are a great way to kick things off. While you’re here, pick up an Apex rental car from the Gold Coast airport so you can kick off your road trip properly.

Elsewhere on the Goldie, you can take your pick between bustling Surfer’s Paradise or pockets of calm like Burleigh Heads and Tallebudgera Creek. The Gold Coast Hinterland is also definitely worth exploring, especially quirky Tamborine Mountain.

Northbound from here, you’ll be driving the Great Sunshine Way and taking in the state’s dreamy subtropical scenery.

#2 Brisbane

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Brisbane has grown up the past decade, putting itself firmly back on the map of places we’d rather be. A warm climate and burgeoning hotel, bar and restaurant scene makes this city a ‘best of both worlds’ situation.

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The Sunshine Coast is an iconic Queensland holiday destination, with Noosa the firm favourite. Noosa has a sophisticated air, especially along Hastings Street’s boutiques. The region is known for its beaches but there are also lakes and the Noosa National Park to explore.

#4 Rockhampton

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Don’t stare down the barrel of an eight-hour drive to Airlie Beach – take a minute in Rockhampton. It has some of the best bars and restaurants in regional Queensland and a beautiful Botanic Gardens to explore. It’s also a great launch pad to explore Emu Park in Yeppoon.

#5 Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays

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A postcard-perfect location, the Whitsundays is made up of 74 idyllic islands. There are a bunch of cruises on offer , which will help you tick off bucket-list Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, but if you’d rather stick to dry land, Airlie Beach is a fun town to blow off steam.

#6 Atherton Tablelands

Head inland to this hinterlands food bowl with incredible produce, coffee plantations, dairy farms, sunflower fields, waterfalls (there’s a literal ‘waterfall circuit’ here), crater lakes, and plenty of wildlife.

Exploring Vietnam’s Most Underrated Region

You can also relax at Innot Hot Springs with its six geo-thermal pools and visit the Undara Lava Tubes.

#7 Mission Beach and Cairns

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Welcome to Far North Queensland, a very special part of the world. You’ll be driving alongside the Cassowary Coast, stretching from Cardwell up to Cairns with Mission Beach at its heart.

The quiet stretch of coastline surrounding Mission Beach is the closest access point to the reef and is rated as Australia’s most famous skydiving spot. You also have the chance to spot endangered Cassowaries in the wild, especially in nearby Etty Bay – just don’t get too close if you do.

For those after some tropical city action, hit up Cairns. Beyond your usual city amenities, there’s lots to do – access to ancient rainforests, fun markets, a vibey alfresco dining scene, and a multitude of Great Barrier Reef diving and snorkelling tours.

#8 Cape Tribulation

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Cape Tribulation is the only place on the planet where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet, with the world’s oldest rainforest kissing the world’s largest coral reef. The drive here is beautiful – this is Daintree territory and home to the Kuku Yalanji people.

Start your next road trip with Apex Car Rentals. Find out more and book a car here .

(Lead image:  Taras Vyshnya / Shutterstock)

Sonia is a travel, lifestyle, and design writer and editor who lives for sharing a personal rec. See what she's up to @literallysonia .

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Coopers Creek, Daintree Rainforest, Queensland © Tourism Australia

16-day family road trip: Gold Coast to Cairns

Climb the outside of a skyscraper, snorkel with turtles, and hand-feed wild dolphins on this family-friendly adventure up the Queensland coast.

By Simon Webster

Explore the  Queensland  coast, from the Gold Coast all the way up to tropical Cape Tribulation, on an action-packed family adventure that your kids will remember for a lifetime.

What to expect

• Hand-feed wild dolphins on Moreton Island
• Cruise with humpback whales at Hervey Bay
• Spot crocodiles on the Daintree River
• Time: 16 days
• Distance:  2344 kilometres (1456 miles)
• Transport:  car
• Nearest major city: Brisbane

Day 1: Gold Coast

SkyPoint Climb, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Beach Bikes specialises in family bookings with a convenient drop-off and pick up service, but be sure to book in advance.

Just down the road from Brisbane , the Gold Coast is one big holiday playground: 57 kilometres (35 miles) of pristine beaches, mostly just a few minutes’ walk from hotels, food, parks and all sorts of fun. It’s just 77 kilometres (48 miles) from the centre of Brisbane to the Gold Coast’s most famous neighbourhood, Surfers Paradise, so you’ll be there before you know it. Start your adventure with a  SkyPoint Climb . After taking an elevator to floor 77 of the Q1 Building you’ll step outside and climb to the skyscraper’s summit for a 360-degree panorama that has to be the ultimate ‘welcome to Queensland’. After a bite to eat on the Q1 observation deck, jump onto two wheels with  Beach Bikes and explore the Gold Coast’s beaches, shops, cafes, amusement rides and playgrounds via its beachside bike paths. You'll sleep well in tonight’s accommodation, the  Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort and Spa .

Day 2: Gold Coast and Moreton Island

Dreamworld, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

The kids might want to spend the whole morning learning to snorkel in the Marriott’s saltwater lagoon (complete with tropical fish), but there’s no time to linger, because today you’re whisking them off to one of the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks . Take your pick from  Warner Bros Movie World (with action-packed rides and Hollywood street parades),  Sea World (where you can meet polar bears and penguins),  Wet ‘n’ Wild Gold Coast (with water rides including the zero-gravity Kamikaze),  Dreamworld , (with no shortage of thrills and spills) and the neighbouring  WhiteWater World (for lots of adrenaline-pumping action). Dry yourselves off or dust yourselves down and jump in the car for the 60-kilometre (37-mile), 45-minute drive north to Pinkenba, in Brisbane’s east. Here, you’ll jump aboard the 5pm passenger ferry that will spend an hour-and-a-quarter crossing Moreton Bay to Moreton Island , and  Tangalooma Island Resort .

Day 3: Moreton Island

Wild dolphin feeding at Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island, Queensland © Brisbane Marketing

Almost entirely made up of national park, with surf beaches on one side and calm, clear water on the other, Moreton Island, 40 kilometres (25 miles) off Brisbane, has been described as nature’s theme park, with stunning snorkelling and diving , bushwalks, and even a mini desert to explore. After waking up in your beachside home at the  Tangalooma Island Resort , you’ll head off on a  Transparent Day Kayak Tour , in which you’ll explore the famous Tangalooma shipwrecks in see-through kayaks, which means you won’t miss any of the rainbow-coloured marine life below. After a casual lunch at the beach café, head for the dunes on a Moreton Island  Desert Safari Tour , which will include some high-speed sand tobogganing. You can slow down your heart rate by  handfeeding the bottlenose dolphins that arrive at the resort’s shores at sunset, before dinner and drinks at one of the resort's dining and bar venues.

Day 4: Moreton Island to Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Hop on the ferry, jump back in your car, and head north. It’s just 78 kilometres (48 miles), or about an hour, from the wharf to the remarkable  Australia Zoo . Established by the late Steve Irwin, AKA the Crocodile Hunter, the zoo can be found near the country town of Beerwah, in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, and provides a home for more than 1200 animals from all over the world, from rhinos to red pandas. It’s a great place for the family to get to know some of Australia’s weird and wonderful wildlife , with opportunities to cuddle koalas , pat possums and hand-feed kangaroos, and then keep your distance as you watch someone else feed saltwater crocodiles! The kids can even be  zookeepers for a day . There’s so much to do, but you’ll have plenty of time to do it as your accommodation, the  Glass House Mountains Eco Lodge , is just a 10-minute drive away.

Day 5: Glass House Mountains

Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

After an early morning wander around the eco lodge’s orchard, bushtucker track, and children’s seek-and-find creek trail, it’s time to get a broader view of the landscape. You won’t have to go far; just across the road is the 3.3-kilometre (two-mile)  Tibrogargan walking circuit , a family-friendly, 90-minute bushwalk that passes through groves and forests around the base of Mount Tibrogargan and offers views of several of the remarkable Glass House Mountains . It’s just 28 kilometres (17 miles), or a half-hour drive, from here to the charming, laid-back town of Maleny, on the Blackall Range. Grab some picnic provisions and head for the  Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World , where you shouldn’t be surprised if a parrot lands on your shoulder. Take the spectacular 40-minute drive via the pretty town of Montville for a photo op at the  Big Pineapple (one of Australia’s quirky ‘big things’). Another 40-minute drive away is the iconic beach town of Noosa, and your accommodation,  Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort .

Day 6: Noosa

Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

If you’re there on a Wednesday or Saturday, check out the quirky and colourful iconic Eumundi Markets , a 20-minute drive from Noosa Main Beach.

One of Australia’s most popular holiday towns, Noosa is a place where you can combine great food with shopping, swimming, national parks and fun family activities, all within walking distance of your accommodation. At the Sofitel you’re right in the heart of things, on Hastings Street, which just so happens to run along Main Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with gently lapping waves and stunning, clear water. Hire a  stand-up paddleboard and get out there, or let the kids show you how it’s done. It’s just a couple of minutes’ walk from the beach to countless shops and eateries. Try the  Noosa Surf Club for lunch, then head off on an easy bushwalk in  Noosa National Park , which conveniently begins right at the end of Main Beach. Keep an eye out for koalas in the gum trees. After dark, stroll along Hastings Street, enjoy the fairy lights, and treat the kids to some pizza at  Zachary’s .

Day 7: Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay Whale Watching, Hervey Bay, Queensland © Matthew Taylor, Tourism and Events Queensland

After an early morning swim, say goodbye to Noosa Main Beach and hop in the car for the 184-kilometre (114-mile), two-and-a-half-hour drive to Hervey Bay . Of all the places in the world to go whale watching, this is perhaps the most famous, and for good reason. Each year, humpback whales take on an arduous annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the South Pacific, and back again, with newborn calves. Hervey Bay is one of their favourite stopovers for some rest and relaxation. If you’re here between late July and November, you are in luck. On an afternoon cruise with  Hervey Bay Whale Watch you’ll not only get incredibly close to whales, but you’ll be aboard a catamaran equipped with a hydrophone, so you can even hear them sing underwater. Soak up the sunset on your way back to Urangan Harbour, jump ashore, and take the five-minute walk to your accommodation,  Akama Resort .

Day 8: K’gari (Fraser Island)

S.S. Maheno, K’gari (Fraser Island), Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Did you know?

Stretching more than 120 kilometres, K’gari is the largest sand island in the world.

Get up early for your hotel pick-up. Today, you’re off to the world’s largest sand island on a 4WD day tour with  K'gari Explorer Tours . After a 30-minute barge crossing across the Great Sandy Marine Park (keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and dugongs) you’ll land at Wanggoolba Creek to begin your  K’gari  adventure. You’ll walk among king ferns and ghost gums at Wanggoolba Creek, swim in impossibly beautiful water at Lake McKenzie, drive along a highway made of sand – Seventy Five Mile Beach – and jump aboard an optional extra: a scenic flight over the island, taking off and landing on the beach, and looking down on the rainforest, lakes, and breaching whales below. Along the way you’ll no doubt see some of the island’s famous wild dingoes, as well as float down Eli Creek, visit the dramatic, rusting Maheno Shipwreck, and check out the coloured sand formations of The Pinnacles, before heading back to Hervey Bay, exhausted but exhilarated.

Day 9: Hervey Bay to 1770

1770, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Town of 1770 got its name from being the site of Captain Cook’s first landing in Queensland in, you guessed it, the year 1770.

Today, you’re off to the Town of 1770 . It’s a beautiful beachside settlement that was once touted as being the ‘next Noosa’ but never quite developed that much. It is less than three hours north of Hervey Bay, or 236 kilometres (147 miles), giving you plenty of time to soak up the serenity at  Lagoons 1770 Resort & Spa . The neighbouring settlement of Agnes Water is home to the most northern surf break in Queensland (from here on up, the Great Barrier Reef  blocks the waves) so make the most of it by taking a two-hour surf lesson with  Lazy Lizard . Later, you’ll be exploring the local waterways in a rather unusual amphibious vessel that’s a shocking shade of pink. Join a fun afternoon cruise with  1770 LARC! Tours , and keep a lookout for sea eagles, turtles and dolphins – that’s if you can get the kids to stop marvelling at the fact that they are in a big pink boat with wheels.

Day 10: 1770 to Rockhampton

Dreamtime Cultural Centre, Rockhampton, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

It’s a big change of scene today, from the laid-back beach vibe of 1770, to the elegant country town of Rockhampton . It will take you about three hours to drive the 232-kilometre (144-mile) route. Once you’ve checked in to your  Quest Rockhampton apartment overlooking the Fitzroy River in the heart of Rocky, head to the  Dreamtime Cultural Centre to learn about Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. On a guided tour, you’ll learn all about didgeridoo playing and boomerang throwing, as well as explore recreations of a Torres Strait Islander village and local sandstone caves. Then take a ride in a stagecoach and discover Rockhampton’s settler history at the Rockhampton Heritage Village before freshening up for a stroll through the town centre. You’ll admire colonial buildings and the Big Bulls statues (this is Australia’s beef capital, after all).

Day 11: Rockhampton to Airlie Beach

Capricorn Caves, Rockhampton, Queensland © Capricorn Caves

You’re going to delve deeper into Australia’s past this morning, with an exploration of the  Capricorn Caves . Just 29 kilometres (18 miles), or half an hour, north of Rockhampton, you’ll descend into these spectacular limestone caves on a one-hour Cathedral Cave tour, on which you’ll discover some amazing acoustics and exit via a suspension bridge (very Indiana Jones). You could try to hit the road before the one-hour fossil tour, but you know how much kids love dinosaurs, so you may as well stay for that as well. It’s almost lunchtime now, so grab a bite to eat at the café, then hit the Bruce Highway for the 461-kilometre (286-mile), five-hour drive to Airlie Beach . You’ll feel suitably tropical by the time you check in to your accommodation, the  Coral Sea Resort . Have a wander through the streets of this fun holiday town and grab a table overlooking the Coral Sea at Anchor Bar , which serves contemporary dishes and a lively vibe. Airlie Beach

Day 12: Snorkelling the Whitsundays

Hook Island, Whitsundays, Queensland © Ocean Rafting

Remember that snorkelling practice that the kids got back in the hotel pool on the Gold Coast? Today, it’s going to come in handy, as you’re going to snorkel in one of the most stunning locations in the world: the Whitsunday Islands . Head out with  Ocean Rafting on a custom-built, high-speed, semi-rigid inflatable vessel (just to add to the excitement) and visit some of the Whitsundays’ best snorkelling spots, where you’ll swim with turtles and many of the countless amazing fish here on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll also call in on Whitehaven Beach, famous for having some of whitest sand in the world, and climb to Hill Inlet Lookout, for amazing views of Whitehaven and the islands beyond. You’ll be back in Airlie Beach in time to freshen up for dinner at the Coral Sea Resort’s breezy poolside restaurant, The Rocks .

Experience an underwater museum on the Great Barrier Reef

Day 13: Airlie Beach to Townsville

Museum of Underwater Art, near Townsville, Queensland © Museum of Underwater Art

Hit the road for 275-kilometre (171-mile), three-hour drive to Townsville , a formerly sleepy country town by the sea that has been reinventing itself with funky Melbourne-like laneways and a thriving foodie scene. Grab lunch in one of the cafes in  City Lane then head to the  Museum of Tropical Queensland for everything from animatronic dinosaurs to an interactive rainforest exhibit. You could also check out the 'Ocean Siren' sculpture rising from the water alongside Strand Jetty as part of the Museum of Underwater Art , or do the 45-minute walk up  Castle Hill . Choose the easier roadway or a steeper ‘goat track’. Either way, it’s well worth the effort: the 360-degree panorama, taking in the ocean, Magnetic Island, the town, sugarcane fields and mountains, is hard to beat. Then it’s off to  GYO Japanese Tapas for dinner and a good night’s sleep at the  Hotel Grand Chancellor .

Day 14: Townsville to Cairns

Prawn Star, Cairns Marlin Marina, Queensland © Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Have a wander among the palm trees along  The Strand promenade, which features a rockpool, water park and playground for the kids, before departing Townsville for the four-hour drive to the holiday capital of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns . Check in to the  Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort , which not only happens to be in the heart of the city but also offers a lagoon swimming pool from which the kids are going to be very hard to extract. Once you've settled in, wander for 15 minutes along the water to the family-friendly Prawn Star at Marlin Marina for a seafood dinner aboard a boat. Expect delicious food, unique views and fun for the whole family.

Day 15: Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Discovery Centre, Cow Bay, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Today you’re exploring the world’s oldest rainforest, one of the planet's great natural wonders: the Daintree . After a 105-kilometre (65-mile), 90-minute drive north, you’ll arrive at the Daintree River, where you’ll hop aboard the  Crocodile Express for a one-hour cruise in which you’ll see lots of large reptilian reasons not to go for a swim on this particular stretch of water. Then take the iconic  vehicle ferry across the river and a short 10-kilometre (six-mile), 20-minute drive to the  Daintree Discovery Centre for self-guided audio tours through the rainforest (on which you may see a  cassowary ) and a skywalk through the canopy. In the afternoon, call in for a home-made tropical ice-cream at the  Daintree Ice Cream Co on the way to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef, and check in to the  Cape Trib Beach House Resort , where you can enjoy dinner before joining a nightwalk to see what comes alive in the rainforest after dark.

Day 16: Cape Tribulation to Cairns

Ocean Safari, Mackay Reef, Queensland © Tourism Australia

Even if you’ve never been on a horse, get set to saddle up and explore the rainforest on a trusty steed, with  Cape Trib Horse Rides . You’ll even canter along the sand and into the water at Myall Beach. In the afternoon, take a half-day tour with  Ocean Safari to the Great Barrier Reef, in which you’re just a 25-minute boat ride from snorkelling on one of the wonders of the world. Full of fish and colourful coral, it’s going to be an incredible way to finish your Queensland adventure. After another night at the  Cape Trib Beach House Resort , during which you’ll settle down by a campfire and reminisce about your adventures, you’ll be taking the 142-kilometre (88-mile) three-hour trip back to Cairns Airport, and on to your next destination, wherever that may be.

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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.

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Coastal Queensland

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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.

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• North of Townsville
• The Southern Reef

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updated 26.04.2021

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20 Best QLD Road Trips To Take In 2022

With so many jaw-dropping sights waiting to be discovered, Queensland is the perfect destination to explore by campervan. As the second-largest state in Australia, there are plenty of things to do in Queensland. This subtropical region of northeast Australia is overflowing with natural attractions, national parks and marine parks to explore year-round.

With such a large landmass filled with things to see and do, van travel is the perfect way to explore. No more long cramped car rides, expensive roadhouse meals, and the inconvenience of hotel stays. With a camper, you can make the most of your time, make use of the onboard facilities to make a meal or use the bathroom and experience a road trip in style.

To help you plan your ultimate holiday, we’ve listed our top 20 Queensland road trips.

Why visit Queensland?

Queensland is often referred to as the Sunshine State for its idyllic year-round 29℃ weather. Although there is some variability to this rule, it doesn’t mean you can’t follow the sunshine.

In the winter months between June and August, head north to enjoy the tropical paradise home to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics, golden sandy beaches, and native-forested national parks. Winter is also the perfect time to venture inland to explore the hidden gems (both literally and figuratively) in outback Queensland. In the summer (December to February), head south to avoid the wet season and the sticky flies of the outback, instead enjoy a coastal road trip, exploring some of the best surf spots in Australia .

No matter where you choose to adventure, the tropical climate and natural beauty can be found all throughout the state. And, what better way to explore than by taking a road trip where you can soak up with sights with everything you need in tow.

The top 20 Queensland road trips 

1. great tropical drive .

• Distance: 660km
• Highlights: Great Barrier Reef, Island Point, Kalkajaka National Park

North Queensland’s Great Tropical Driv e winds its way through three beautiful and pivotal stops on a far north Queensland road trip: Cairns, Port Douglas, and Cooktown. On this coastal adventure, experience the best of Cairns city, escape into the monsoonal rainforests of the Wet Tropics, snorkel amongst the tropical fish of the Great Barrier Reef, summit Flagstaff Hill lookout, and explore the history of Cooktown at the James Cook Museum.

2. Gillies Highway

• Distance: 60km
• Highlights: Heales Lookout, Goldsborough Valley, Walsh’s Pyramid

Just south of Cairns, the Gillies Range road runs southwest from Gordonvale through the Gillies Range and finishes in the town of Atherton. Choose your own adventure with the many detours just off this highway, including swimming in Lake Eacham, exploring Crater Lakes National Park, as well as exploring Walsh’s Pyramid, the highest free-standing natural pyramid in the world.

3. Brisbane to Noosa 

• Distance: 148km
• Highlights: Water activities, Noosa National Park, Noosa Everglades

Brisbane to Noosa is only a 2-hour drive, but it is filled with enough adventure to fill a week if you have the time. Some of the best things to do include taking a day trip to Bribie Island, hiking the sheer cliffs of the Glasshouse Mountains, visiting Australia Zoo, and touring through the spectacular network of water and wilderness of the Noosa Everglades.

4. Brisbane to Rainforest Way 

• Distance: 187km
• Highlights: World Heritage rainforests, national parks

Rainforest Way is a series of self-driving routes winding down through southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. Gain a new appreciation of this region's beauty as you walk amongst Australia's World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests and the beautiful hinterlands on this route.

5. Nerang to Aratula 

• Distance: 137km
• Highlights: The Scenic Rim, Kalbar, Peak Crossing

The Scenic Rim Way traverses west from the Gold Coast and follows numerous trails and loops that will take you through quaint country towns, boutiques, national parks, wineries, breweries and lakes. This is the perfect route to experience the classic country charm of inland Queensland.

6. Brisbane to Sunshine Coast 

• Distance: 105km
• Highlights: Noosa Heads, Surfer’s Paradise, Glasshouse Mountains

Sample the best of both worlds, from the city lights of Brisbane to the laid back vibe of the Sunshine Coast, along this beautiful coastal route. Stop by the highrise-lined beach of Surfers Paradise, look out over the Gold Coast from the impressive vantage of the Glasshouse Mountains and taste your way through Eumundi Markets before embracing the perpetual sandy-feet sunny-coast way of life.

7. Brisbane to Gold Coast 

• Distance: 78 km
• Highlights: Mount Tamborine, Lamington, Springbrook

Explore the iconic cities of Brisbane and the Gold Coast on this short yet packed tour of the east coast. Take a surf lesson at one of the best surf spots in Australia , cuddle a koala at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, walk through the dense, lush rainforest of Tamborine Mountain and feel the spray of the spectacular waterfalls at Springbrook National Park.

8. Cairns to Port Douglas 

• Distance: 67 km
• Highlights: Macalister Range National Park, Great Barrier Reef

Follow the palm-lined asphalt of the Captain Cook Highway north from Cairns to Port Douglas as you take in the incredible coastal views past rainforest-covered mountains. Be sure to take a tour to explore the Great Barrier Reef, wander along the bouldered landscape of Wangetti Beach, and explore Kuranda Rainforest Village; home to Australia’s largest butterfly sanctuary.

9. Cairns to Matilda Way 

• Distance: 1,452km
• Highlights: Airlie Beach, Rockhampton, Bundaberg

Wander inland to the red dirt of the Queensland outback along Matilda Way. Running from Cairns across to Normanton and then southbound to Cunnamulla, this itinerary guides you through the dinosaur capital of Australia (Winton), all the way south to soak in the warm natural baths of the Great Artesian Basin at Charlotte’s Plains - the ultimate outback experience.

10. Great Green Way: Townsville to Cairns 

• Distance: 348km
• Highlights: Lucinda, Cardwell, Mission Beach

Stretching between Townsville and Cairns, this short and sweet tropical drive is best enjoyed over a few days to settle in with the laid-back vibe. You’ll see spectacular beaches and the distant Hinchinbrook Island and can tick the Golden Gumboot off your ‘big thing’ bucket list.

11. Cairns to Cape Tribulation 

• Distance: 75km
• Highlights: Ellis Beach, Palm Cove, Great Barrier Reef

On the drive north toward Cape Tribulation, soak up the beautiful views with lush rainforest on one side and coastal beauty on the other. Passing through shady covered beaches of Palm Cove, capture the classic tropical photo-op at the bent over palms on Ellis Beach. Lose yourself in the ancient untouched beauty of the dense rainforest and golden sandy beaches of Cape Tribulation.

12. Cairns to Whitsundays 

• Distance: 620km (to Airlie Beach)
• Highlights : Mission Beach, Girringun National Park, Townsville

What better way to explore the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef than a trip from Cairns to the Whitsundays. Take a tour of the reef, swimming at Babinda Boulders, visit the Big Mango in Bowen and dine at one of the alfresco style restaurants in Airlie Beach. This is also a popular whale-watching destination in spring and winter.

13. Brisbane to Glass House Mountains 

• Distance: 68km
• Highlights: Mary Cairncross Reserve, Mt. Tibrogargan

Leave the city lights behind to discover all the natural wonders tucked away in the Glass House Mountains National Park. Visit Maleny Botanic Gardens, brave the steep cliffs of Mt. Tibrogargan or meander along the boardwalk in Coolum on this self-drive coastal adventure.

14. Brisbane to Sapphire Gremfields 

• Distance: 935km
• Highlights: Sunshine Coast, fossick for gems at Sapphire Gemfields

Step into the true-blue outback on this inland Queensland drive. Leave the salty coastal roads behind and explore the quaint small towns, the Blackdown Tablelands' scenic waterfalls, and try your luck fossicking for precious stones in the world’s largest sapphire fields at the Sapphire Gemfields.

15. Brisbane to Wooroonooran National Park 

• Distance: 1,618km
• Highlights: Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Airlie Beach, Townsville Driving between

Brisbane and Wooroonooran National Park is the ultimate east coast road trip. Along this route, you’ll see the iconic Sunshine Coast coastline, pass through the beef capital of Australia in Rockhampton, have the chance to explore the Great Barrier Reef, and much more.

16. Cairns to Kirrama Range Road

• Distance: 225km
• Highlights: Wooroonooran National Park, Mission Beach, Koombooloomba National Park

This inland road trip winds its way past Walsh’s Pyramid , through the iconic waterfall circuit, and finishes with a spectacular drive through the heritage-listed forest surrounding Kirrama Range Road. Don’t forget your camera - this road trip is a photographer’s dream.

17. Brisbane to Cairns 

• Distance: 1,678km
• Highlights : Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, Rockhampton, Townsville

Experience the very best of two of Queensland’s most popular destinations with a Brisbane to Cairns road trip. This coastline is jam-packed with some of the best things to do in Australia: swim in the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy spontaneous alfresco eats along the Sunshine Coast, and come up close with crocodiles and cassowaries.

18. Pacific Coast Way: Airlie Beach to Gold Coast 

• Distance: 1,175km
• Highlights: Mackay, Tannum Sands, Bundaberg, Noosa

From South East Queensland to the Tropical North, Pacific Coast Way is the perfect road trip to discover stunning coastlines, indulge in hinterland cuisine, and immerse yourself in ancient biodiverse national parks filled with waterfalls, rockpools and rare native wildlife.

19. Brisbane to Byron Bay 

• Distance: 164 km 
• Highlights: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Surfers Paradise

The once humble hippy town of Byron Bay has since transformed into a boho-chic luxury retreat for travellers. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth the visit! Venture north past Surfers Paradise (cuddle a koala at the Lone Pine Sanctuary on the way) to explore the beautiful beaches and boho charm of this lively coastal town.

20. Cairns to Longreach 

• Distance: 916km
• Highlights: Queensland Outback, Stockman’s Hall of Fame

Discover Queensland’s outback history with this rural road trip. Step back in time with a visit to the Qantas Founders Museum, Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs in Winton - Australia’s dinosaur capital.

Ready for your next Australian adventure? 

If you’re ready to rent a van and road trip through Australia’s sunshine state, check out all our latest deals and book your Mighty camper today .

If you’re looking for other ways to get the most out of your Australian road trip, visit our blog for more travel inspiration and itineraries and download the thl Roadtrip app . This road trip itinerary planner is a one-stop-shop to help plan your campervan trip. On it, you can find everything from free campgrounds , powered camping sites, free things to do, water fill-ups, Australian attractions, and more. It's a great way to ensure you don't miss a beat while you explore Australia.

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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.

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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.

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These Are The BEST Weekend Road Trips In Australia

Posted: July 17, 2023 | Last updated: July 17, 2023

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Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Canberra to Khancoban

For rolling green mountains laced with hiking and mountain biking trails and criss-crossed with streams and rivers, head south from capital Canberra and cross into the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. First stop on the roughly four-hour drive is Cooma, the largest town in the mountains, and where you can enjoy for a host of outdoor adventures. Set by a gorgeous lake, Jindabyne is another outdoorsy town where there’s lots of fun to be had. Swap to two wheels and cycle around the Lake Jindabyne Foreshore Trail, go fishing or sign up for caving or rock-climbing tours.

Next up, follow the signs to Thredbo where you can take the chair lift up to Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Head to the summit trail for dizzying views of Thredbo Valley, then go back down to continue your journey along the Alpine Way. This dramatic stretch of road, with views of snow-capped peaks, high forests and rivers, links the southern reaches of Kosciuszko National Park to Khancoban, near the Victorian border. From here hikes into the high country lie all around: trails to the majestic Western Fall and among the plains and snow gums of the Jagungal Wilderness are highly recommended.

Northern Territory: Alice Springs to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

If it’s classic outback scenery you’re after, you won’t want to miss the 705-mile (1,135km) Red Centre Way loop from Alice Springs deep into central Australia’s desert plains, weathered mountain ranges and rocky gorges. You’ll pass some of the country’s most remarkable natural formations with plenty of places to stop off and see them in all their glory. To make the most of this spectacular route hire a four-wheel drive or if not, you can follow the longer but completely sealed 1,087-mile (1,750km) loop.

First up on the dusty road west from Alice Springs are the chasms, gorges and waterholes of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, where it's possible to find a spot for a cool dip. Kings Canyon in the Watarrka National Park is up next. Be sure to do the Rim Walk, a spectacular three-hour adventure up and into the canyon’s vast sandstone walls. You’ll have sweeping desert views and can peer into its verdant floor filled with palms and prehistoric cyads. From here it’s 186 miles (300km) to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, both sacred sites to the Anangu people, with a host of stirring walks. Head back east along the Lasseter Highway then north on the Stuart Highway back towards Alice.

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Northern Territory: Darwin to Kakadu to Katherine

Tropical city Darwin is the gateway to some of the Top End’s most epic landscapes. Immerse yourself in them on the Nature’s Way road trip, best taken over four days. The route strikes southeast from the city along the Arnhem Highway to the vast Kakadu National Park. You could spend endless days here exploring its sandstone escarpments, ogling ancient rock art at Ubirr and Burrungkuy, cruising wildlife-filled wetlands and hiking to see plunging falls and sweeping views across to Arnhem Land.

If you can tear yourself away from the wonders of Australia’s largest national park, take the road south for a two-and-a-half-hour drive along Kakadu Highway towards the town of Katherine. Revive road-weary legs at its natural thermal springs, set on the banks of the Katherine River, before heading off to discover the myriad wonders of Nitmiluk National Park, just a 30-minute drive away. Explore bushwalking tracks or cruise or kayak your way along the series of 13 gorges that are carved into the ancient sandstone.

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Northern Territory: Darwin to Litchfield

If the often relentlessly long roads of the Top End don’t appeal, follow this easy return trip from Darwin to Litchfield National Park. Heading 75 miles (120km) southwest from the city on sealed roads, you’ll be marveling at towering magnetic termite mounds and cooling off in sparkling waterholes and under thundering cascades in less than two hours. The park is big though, with plenty to see, so plan to camp overnight to fully explore its monsoon forests, sandstone plateau, creeks and scenic pools.

Stunning waterfalls run down from the park's rugged Tabletop Range, which experienced hikers can explore on the strenuous 24-mile (39km) Tabletop Trek. Shorter routes link off it to Wangi Falls, Walker Creek and the spectacular waterfall of Florence Falls, all designated safe swimming areas. Buley Rockholes, a series of bubbling pools, are an especially delightful spot for a wallow. Litchfield is gorgeous year round, but its falls are at their most spectacular in the wet and early dry season (March to September).

South Australia: Port Augusta-Coober Pedy

If you want seclusion, red dirt, roadhouses and kangaroos, this epic 500-mile (800km) road trip is the one for you. Take the Flinders Ranges Way from Port Augusta and keep driving into the vast untouched wilderness of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges. You’ll pass historic townships like old railway town Quorn and unfathomably vast sheep stations (stop in at Rawnsley Park Station to watch sheep shearing demos or join guided walking tours) as you edge your way into the ancient sun-baked landscape.

An astonishing sweep of eroded mountain ranges, dramatic gorges, Aboriginal rock art galleries and ancient fossils, the sights you encounter in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park will be forever etched on your mind. Take to the air to see the incredible natural marvel that is Wilpena Pound – Australia's largest salt lake Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is best seen from a height too. If you have a four-wheel drive, you can drive along part of the legendary outback Oodnadatta Track from Marree to William Creek. From there, carry on two hours west and you’ll reach underground opal mining capital Coober Pedy. Go between May and September for cooler temperatures.

South Australia: Port Lincoln to Baird Bay

The Eyre Peninsula is where the outback meets the Southern Ocean with spectacular results. Follow the Seafood Frontier road trip route to discover why this less-visited part of South Australia enchants with its sensational seafood, marine life and incredible beaches. Start in Port Lincoln, which sits on Boston Bay – the largest natural harbor in Australia and the country’s seafood capital with a huge southern bluefin tuna industry. It’s also a hub of marine adventures, including the only cage dive with great white sharks in Australia.

From here, it’s an easy 30-minute drive to Coffin Bay where you can eat its eponymous oysters straight from the water – slip on your waders and head out on an oyster farm tour. The wild beaches of Coffin Bay National Park are out of this world: from dune-backed, surf-pounded beaches to sheltered bays, they’re all gorgeous and more often than not empty. From here drive north up the west coast of the peninsula to Elliston on the shores of Waterloo Bay. Follow its eight-mile (13.6km) walking and driving coastal track, for thrilling ocean views from high windswept cliffs peppered with caves. Then head on to Baird Bay where you can swim with playful sea lions and bottlenose dolphins.

South Australia: Adelaide to the Clare Valley

As the home of some of the country’s oldest and most renowned wineries, South Australia is the state for oenophiles to navigate to. Happily, its picturesque wine regions are an easy drive from capital Adelaide (also a hot spot for wining and dining). Follow the road trip known as the Epicurean Way to get your fill of the state's top drops and gourmet delights as you spend three days meandering around the vineyards, villages, farmers' markets and restaurants of four fantastic wine regions: McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, Barossa and Clare Valley.

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Start your gourmet odyssey an hour south of Adelaide at McLaren Vale, a scenic region wedged between the rolling Mount Lofty Ranges and the Gulf St Vincent beaches. With 80 plus cellar doors, there’s plenty to fill your day. Cycle or hike along the Shiraz Trail, a five-mile (8km) former rail-trail to Willunga, stopping off to sample wines and local produce at cellar doors. Heading back north to Adelaide Hills, known for its cool-climate wines, pretty townships and lush landscapes, the route then continues onto the historic towns and gourmet hot spots of the Barossa Valley and finally the picturesque Clare Valley. Ditch the car again and pedal along the 22-mile (35km) Riesling Trail for countryside views, cellar doors and charming B&Bs.

Tasmania: Hobart to Binalong Bay

Skirting along Tasmania’s scenic east coast, this 186-mile (300km) route is best taken over four days or more. Starting at Hobart, the road goes north past dramatic coastlines peppered with stunning and often deserted beaches. The Great Eastern Drive passes four of the state's 19 national parks: Freycinet (white sands, blue waters and pink granite peaks), Douglas-Apsley (forest tracks and gorges with swimming holes), Mount William (which includes the northern section of the dramatic Bay of Fires) and, a 30-minute ferry from the fishing port of Triabunna, the wildlife haven that is Maria Island (convict-era ruins and native species including wombats and Tasmanian devils). 

Other highlights on the Great Eastern Drive are impossibly pretty Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet​ Peninsula and the extraordinary orange lichen-covered granite boulders of the Bay of Fires, where the route ends. There are plenty of places to stay and eat en route, as the road takes in charming laid-back towns (including Orford, Swansea on the Great Oyster Bay and Bicheno) and some of Tasmania's top food and wine producers.

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Tasmania: Hobart to Cockle Bay

Take the road south of Hobart instead to follow the Southern Edge road trip. After exploring the historic waterfront capital, head along the Huon Highway and out past the little coves of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, around the bucolic farms and orchards of the pretty Huon Valley and drive right to Australia’s southern-most edge for cliff-top walks and edge-of-the-world feels. This easy drive can be done in a few days, but add a few extra to hop over to Bruny Island. Take the car ferry from Kettering to wend your way around the wild little isle.

Back on the mainland, head south down the coastal road to Cygnet, hub of the Huon Valley with the D'Entrecasteaux Channel on one side and the Huon River on the other. From here you can pootle around farm gates and roadside stalls to sample its famed apples, pears and ciders. From here, head to Cockle Bay to explore Tasmania's secluded southwest wilderness where quite literally the next stop is Antarctica. Park at the end of Australia’s most southerly road and follow the South Coast Track through woods and bushland to the cliffs above South Cape Bay. This four-hour hike will certainly stretch your legs before you head back to Hobart.

Tasmania: Cradle Mountain to Queenstown

After exploring the spectacular scenery of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake in Tasmania's Central Highlands, take the road less traveled into the island's western wilds. Turning west onto the C132, you’ll cross a stretch of wild open moorland, then head south onto the Murchison Highway. You’ll pass through former mining towns (Tullah and Rosebery) and remote settlements with a convict past that sit on the edge of the vast World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness Area that cloaks much of the island's west. 

Stop in small town Zeehan to learn about the region’s rich history at the West Coast Heritage Centre and Pioneers Museum and climb Mount Zeehan for sweeping west coast views. Then stretch your legs on the wild windswept expanse of Ocean Beach before driving 40 minutes south to harborside town Strahan. Now a tourist hub, cruises go into the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and to notorious convict station Sarah Island. From here, you could either catch the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway through the rainforest to Queenstown, once the world's richest mining town, or wind along the twisty mountainous road to explore its heritage buildings and visit former mines.

Queensland: Gold Coast to Bundaberg

Sun- and fun-filled days are a given on the 273-mile (440km) Great Sunshine Way, which stretches north from the buzzy Gold Coast along Queensland's subtropical coastline via Brisbane to Bundaberg. As well as sun-drenched beaches at every turn, you’ll see koalas and whales, eat in fantastic restaurants and pass stunning national parks. Start the trip on a high note by hitting the theme parks of the Gold Coast or learning to surf at Surfers Paradise then hit the M1, AKA Great Sunshine Way.

Spend a night or two in buzzy Brisbane: take the riverside walk and head to Fortitude Valley for hip bars and restaurants. More top food spots and blissful beaches await 90 miles (144km) north in upscale beach town Noosa. Follow the track through Noosa National Park to the headland where koalas are often spotted, and whales pass by. Didn’t spot any? Continue on the road 115 miles (185km) north to Hervey Bay. Around 10,000 humpback whales visit here every year on their annual migration between July and November. Next stop is Bundaberg, where a well-deserved rum awaits your arrival. Take a tour of its famed Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Queensland: Noosa to Hervey Bay

There are beach roads and then there are actual beach roads. Follow the 236-mile (380km) Great Beach Drive to quite literally track your way along the sand on Queensland's sandy highways. Start in Noosa, where you’ll need to hire a four-wheel drive (make sure the right vehicle access permits are included), then cross Noosa River on the vehicle ferry at Tewantin. From here, take the third beach access road and hit the sands. You’ll go through the Great Sandy Strait Biosphere – stop at Teewah Beach to marvel at its multicolored sand cliffs then carry on north on the Leisha Track to cut through the sand dunes to the small coastal resort of Rainbow Beach. 

Stay overnight at seaside resort Rainbow Beach before you take the vehicle barge over to the southern end of World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) for a mind-blowing drive along its 75 Mile Beach. This amazing sand highway runs along the island's eastern coast. Park at little township Eurong and head off on foot to explore or keep driving north to Lake Wabby, Eli Creek, the SS Maheno shipwreck, Indian Head (pictured) and Champagne Pools. Camp overnight then track inland to Kingfisher Bay on its west coast to catch the Fraser Island Barge across to River Heads, a 20-minute drive away from Hervey Bay.

Queensland: Cairns to Cooktown

After enjoying the sights above and below the waves in Cairns, hit the Captain Cook Highway for a seriously scenic 87-mile (140km) drive along the far north Queensland coast to Cape Tribulation. With white sand, blue waters and offshore islands on one side and emerald-green rainforest on the other, it’s a feast for the eyes. Stop off for lunch or the night at pretty resort Palm Cove, then head on to Port Douglas. This buzzy tropical town has great restaurants, bars and shops and is a top place to head out on boat trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef or to little islands for snorkeling.

Use Port Douglas as a base for exploring the many wonders of Daintree National Park, before taking the vehicle ferry across the Daintree River to Cow Bay. From here it’s a 30-minute stretch to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Coral Sea with spectacular effect. Four-wheel drives only can continue from Emmagen Creek north along the scenic but challenging Bloomfield Track to Cooktown (where Captain James Cook came ashore after HMS Endeavour ran aground on the reef). Be sure to visit its museum and take a tour with Indigenous Australian guides to visit the Quinkan Rock Art. Decorating sandstone escarpments near small town Laura, these are one of the best collections of prehistoric rock art in the world.

Queensland: Gold Coast to the Scenic Rim

Queensland isn’t all reef and beach as you’ll discover on this inland route, which winds around the unfathomably picturesque Scenic Rim. The volcanic region encompasses six national parks, World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, towering mountains, sleepy villages and farmland. Within less than an hour of leaving Gold Coast’s high-rises, you’ll be meandering along narrow roads into lush cool hills and through lovely country towns. Start at North Tamborine on Tamborine Mountain where you can take the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, tour glow worm caves and stock up on local treats from its many distilleries, vineyards and food producers.

Itching to explore the walking trails? Head south through the rainforest-cloaked mountains towards Lamington National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. In this park alone, 90 miles (160km) of hiking trails lead to no less than 500 waterfalls. For sweeping views of the Lost World plateau (a green shelf on Razorback Mountain), strike out on the Moonlight Crag walk or if time is short get up among the trees on the park's suspension bridge walk. From here, drive west towards Rathdowney to explore the trails that wrap around the rugged peaks and rainforests of Mount Barney National Park.

Victoria: Torquay to Allansford

Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is hands down one of the world’s best driving routes. Officially starting in Torquay and ending at Allansford to the west, the route twists 151 miles (243km) along the Southern Ocean passing surf towns, wild beaches and striking rock formations, before heading inland through undulating rainforest. From Torquay, head to Bells Beach (famed surf spot), Anglesea, Aireys Inlet (take a tour of historic Split Point Lighthouse for thrilling views) and spend the night at lovely beach town Lorne. Stroll to Teddy’s Lookout for more spectacular views and be sure to visit Erskine Falls.

Some of the road’s most coast-hugging sections follow on the drive to Apollo Bay: pull over at the lookouts to peer down to the crashing waves below. You’re likely to spot koalas as you drive, but if you don’t, follow the Grey River Road walk in Kennett River, home to a large population of wild koalas – it's halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay. After the latter, the road veers into the Great Otway National Park (stop for rainforest strolls and thundering waterfalls) before winding back to the coast and past the famous rock formations of Port Campbell National Park – the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch.

Victoria: Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula

With its rolling hills, wineries, sleepy villages and hot springs, the Mornington Peninsula offers the best of both countryside and coast and is where Melburnians go to recharge. Framed by two spectacular coastlines, the peninsula has dramatic surf beaches and sheltered bays, and is scattered with artsy seaside towns. Take the M3 Eastlink Toll Road from the city and in an hour you could be gazing at the region from the top of Arthurs Seat, soaking in the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs or picking up a pinot from its vineyards.

Pootle around the wineries and award-winning restaurants of the Red Hill and Main Ridge regions. Then for beach time head to Mount Martha, Rosebud and Portsea, all pretty bays backed by colorful beach huts. Scenic seaside town Sorrento near the western tip is a lovely base with plenty to do. From here, you can head towards Point Nepean at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula: the views across the Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip Bay are mind blowing, as are the walking trails that wind around its old military forts, tunnels and Quarantine Station.

Victoria: Wangaratta to Metung

Head into Victoria’s lofty mountain ranges on the Great Alpine Road for a dose of crisp mountain air and big sky views. The route stretches from Wangaratta through the Ovens Valley to Harrietville, up and over the alpine resort of Mount Hotham, then down again to the coastal village of Metung on the Gippsland Lakes. Covering 211 miles (339km) in total, this drive takes you along Australia's highest year-round accessible sealed road. As well as soaring peaks and plunging valleys, you’ll pass Gold Rush-era towns, thick forests, undulating vineyards and wildlife-rich waterways.

Head south of Wangaratta to explore Milawa (known for its great food) and Beechworth, a characterful 19th-century gold rush town, then head up into Mount Buffalo National Park. Here, walking tracks lead to hulking granite formations, waterfalls and lofty lookouts across the Australian Alps. It’s a hub of outdoor activities in both summer and winter. After stopping in charming country town Bright, ascend into Victoria's highest Alpine village, Mt Hotham. Danny's Lookout is the place to admire it all. You could tackle the Razorback Trail to the summit of Mount Feathertop or descend to the lush farmlands and historic buildings of Omeo. The last leg of this drive along the Great Alpine Road takes you to Metung, gateway to the gorgeous Gippsland Lakes. 

Western Australia: Perth to Exmouth

The 800-mile (1,250km) Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth is one of Australia’s ultimate campervan routes, skirting past some of the state’s most spectacular coastal scenery, otherworldly wonders and wildlife encounters, with some brilliant campsites en route. One of the first major stops after leaving Perth is the Pinnacles Desert, followed by the coastal city of Geraldton and onto the rugged landscape of Kalbarri National Park – well worth a stopover for hikes around its plunging gorges and to take the new Kalbarri Skywalk on the rim of Murchison Gorge for dizzying views. 

Next up are the wonders of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area: stroll across Shell Beach, meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia and see some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, the stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. From here it’s back on the North West Coastal Highway to Carnarvon and Coral Bay, where you can swim straight from the beach and out onto the Ningaloo Reef, the world’s longest fringing coral reef. Cape Range National Park just outside Exmouth is a suitably show-stopping end point with its ocher-colored gorges and reef-fringed turquoise lagoons. Go between March to July, if you can, and you’ll be there when whale sharks arrive to feed on plankton. 

Western Australia: Derby to Kununurra

The 410-mile (660km) Gibb River Road is one of Australia’s most legendary four-wheel drive routes, cutting through some of its most remarkable scenery. Accessible only between April and October, the challenging track (which has been sealed in sections recently) is a short cut between Derby in the west Kimberley and Kununurra in the east, taking drivers into the heart of the northern Kimberley plateau. You can do the full route, best taken over 12 days, or explore parts on a long weekend.

However far along the route you go, you're in for a truly breathtaking journey through sunburnt sandstone ranges, rivers and boab-dotted savannah country. There are plenty of places to sleep along the way, from camps to luxury lodges on unfeasibly large cattle stations like Drysdale River Station and Home Valley Station, as well as El Questro Wilderness Park. Cool off from dusty drives in sparkling waterholes, hike to dazzling gorges like Adcock Gorge (passing ancient rock art along bush tracks) and feel dwarfed by the majestic orange cliffs of the Cockburn Range.

Western Australia: Perth to Esperance

Follow the road south alongside the Indian Ocean from Perth in southern Western Australia for wildlife, wines, white-sand beaches, waves and towering trees. This is the epic South West Edge road trip that takes in some of the state’s most extraordinary landscapes. First up is go-to gourmet destination Margaret River, famed for its wineries, farmers' markets and surf-pounded beaches. Be sure to walk some of the spectacular coastal stretch that runs from the wind-lashed lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin.

If time allows, follow the road on as it curves around onto Western Australia’s southern coast. Stop to hike through the tingle trees in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park forest – these giant eucalypts are found nowhere else on Earth – and swim in the gorgeous Greens Pool in William Bay National at Denmark. More epic coastal scenery follows on Hamersley Drive, a scenic route that wends through Fitzgerald River National Park to Hopetoun. From here, it’s two hours to Esperance, on the edge of Cape Le Grand National Park, where resident kangaroos can be seen hopping about Lucky Bay’s gleaming sand.

Western Australia: Dalwallinu to Geraldton

Western Australia’s Northern Wheatbelt region is glorious road-trip territory at any time of the year, but go from July to October and you’ll be there when the landscape bursts into bloom during the wildflower season. Follow the Wildflower Way from Dalwallinu, a quiet farming town, and head 192 miles (309km) north to Geraldton, passing through traditional townships along the way. One of the first spots you’ll reach is Petrudor Rocks where you can see everlastings, wattles and wild orchids around the pools and granite formations.

Heading onwards, visit Wubin, Buntine Rock, Latham or Caron Dam before arriving at the Wheatbelt town of Perenjori, heart of the wildflower region where pink, yellow and white everlastings carpet the countryside in spring. There’s plenty to do in the sheep-and-wheat farming town, including walking trails – follow the one to John Forrest Lookout for incredible views of the surrounding station country. Carry on north along the Wubin Mullewa Highway to Morawa, Mullewa and finally, breezy coastal city Geraldton, all with their own picturesque wildflower sites.

New South Wales: Sydney to Shoalhaven

Stretching 87 miles (140km) south from Sydney, the Grand Pacific Drive is a blockbuster of a coastal route. First up is the Royal National Park, the oldest in Australia, with its walking trails to wild beaches. The highway continues south, over the famously photogenic Sea Cliff Bridge, which bends around towering cliffs and past the coastal towns of Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. Stay overnight here and follow the Kiama Coastal Walk to see its famous blowhole, surf beaches and pretty bays – the lesser known Little Blowhole lies further south.

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New South Wales: Sydney to Southern Highlands

From Sydney, take the Hume Highway 70 miles (112km) southwest to Bowral, the largest town in the Southern Highlands. Bowral is packed with genteel shops and gourmet restaurants and cricket fans will love the Bradman Museum (you can also visit his childhood home). This rural region is all rolling green hills and farmlands, scattered with charming villages and cellar doors. Just to the west of Bowral lies historic township Berrima, home to the oldest continuously licensed pub in Australia, the Surveyor General Inn. Take the river walk and call in at the Bendooley Estate for wine tasting and book browsing (it has an amazing book barn). 

The region has over 60 vineyards that specialize in cool-climate varieties and 15 cellar doors – follow the wine trail to visit some of the best. It has beautiful bushland and waterfall walks too (keep an eye out for koalas). A couple of hours south of Berrima is Morton National Park, where you should walk to Fitzroy Falls before heading northeast for more stunning waterfalls and kayaking adventures in Kangaroo Valley – you'll cross over the gorgeous 19th-century Hampden Bridge. Then drive east towards the coast via picturesque Berry to join the stunning Grand Pacific Drive north back towards Sydney.

New South Wales: Sydney to the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains can easily be visited in a day from Sydney but make a long weekend of it to see more of the incredible region. Head out along the Great Western Highway from Sydney to Leura and Katoomba, two charming towns in the upper mountains and where most visitors gravitate. Echo Point Lookout is the place to go to see the Three Sisters, the dramatic sandstone peaks that soar over Jamison Valley. At Scenic World you can take the cable car across the valley or head down on the world's steepest railway to explore the trails below. 

Continue the short distance on the Great Western Highway towards Blackheath, then take the winding Megalong Valley Road through rainforest to explore this lovely pastoral valley with its delightful tearooms and horse-riding trails. Back on the highway, stop off at Hassan’s Walls (the highest lookout in the Greater Blue Mountains), and follow the winding road down to the mesmerizing Jenolan Caves, said to be the most ancient caverns in the world. From here wend your way back the way you came or go via Bilpin instead and through the Hawkesbury region to stop off at historic riverside settlements and national parks – and try your hand at kayaking – before heading south down the Pacific Highway back to Sydney.

New South Wales: Sydney to Blueys Beach

There's a reason this long-distance road-trip north from Sydney to Byron Bay is named the Legendary Pacific Coast drive. The full route is 497 miles long (800km) and passes surf towns, historic cities and wildlife-rich national parks, but you can get a taste of it along a three-hour section from Sydney to Blueys Beach in mid-north coast. Once you’ve crossed the Hawkesbury River, and weaved past the Central Coast’s beachside towns (Ettalong Beach, Terrigal and The Entrance), you'll reach cool coastal city Newcastle. From here, a detour to sample semillon and shiraz in the Hunter Valley is very much recommended. 

Next stop is Port Stephens – a huge sweep of a bay known for its giant sand dunes, dolphin tours and koala habitats. From here, head up along the Pacific Highway towards the mid-north coast, taking the exit onto the Lakes Way to the Great Lakes region. There are seven dazzling beaches to hop between, including surfer's hangout Blueys, Boomerang and Elizabeth Beach (part of Booti Booti National Park) and three coastal lagoon systems, including the magnificent Myall Lakes, to explore.

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