queensland coast road trip itinerary

Queensland Road Trips – 11 BEST Drive Itineraries [2024]

• Last Updated: February 2, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Gold Coast Hinterland Road Trip

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

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

Let’s hit the road!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Route Breakdown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here is a rough guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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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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• Destinations
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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 road trip itinerary

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

Written by Michael Turtle

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

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

Last updated: September 6, 2022

Each day of the Brisbane to Cairns road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is it worth driving from Brisbane to Cairns?

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

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

Where should I stop driving from Brisbane to Cairns?

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

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

Is there a train from Brisbane to Cairns?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brisbane – Noosa

2 hours of driving (140 km)

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

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

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

On today’s drive…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN NOOSA

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

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

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

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

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

Noosa – Hervey Bay

2h 20m of driving (190 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN HERVEY BAY

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

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

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

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

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

Hervey Bay – Bundaberg

1h 30m of driving (120 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN BUNDABERG

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

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

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

BED & BREAKFAST

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

SELF-CONTAINED

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

Bundaberg – Yeppoon

3h 50m of driving (290 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN YEPPOON

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

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

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

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

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

Yeppoon – Cape Hillsborough

4h 30m of driving (380 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cape Hillsborough – Airlie Beach

1h 40m of driving (130 km)

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN AIRLIE BEACH

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

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

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

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

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

Airlie Beach – Townsville

3h 30m of driving (280 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TOWNSVILLE

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

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

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

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

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

Townsville – Mission Beach

3 hours of driving (235 km)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MISSION BEACH

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

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

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

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

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

Mission Beach – Cairns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRNS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final itinerary

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

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

More Queensland stories

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

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Queensland coast road trip - Brisbane to Cairns

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

1. Brisbane

3. Hervey Bay

4. Rockhampton

6. Airlie Beach

7. Townsville

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

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

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

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

Queensland Road Trip Overview

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

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

Weather in Queensland

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

Cash Management in Australia

In Australia, you can use your credit card pretty much everywhere. I didn’t use cash for most of my trips there. However, if you prefer to transact in cash, then exchange your money before the trip. Do NOT exchange your money in Australia especially at the Airport. They generally don’t give you a good exchange rate and sometimes applies a fee for the transaction – check out this article for horror stories .

My friend tried to exchange AUD to SGD in Sydney Airport and was given a rate of $1.43 when the going rate was $1.04. His A$163 became S$115 when it should have been S$155. I know as a general rule you are not supposed to change currency in airports, but to his defense, we’ve changed currencies in other airports and was not ripped off as badly as in Australia.

General Tips for driving in Australia

• Rent a car and arrange to pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. Saves you tons of time!
• Have an International Driver License with at least a month validity.
• Keep to the speed limit! I have been told the Australian police is very strict on speeding.
• Fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you.
• Most businesses (except restaurants) are closed by 4-5 pm. Yes, even grocery stores, so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car. Something like this is perfect. You’ll be driving a lot, so you’ll want to use your phone for music, GPS and research and that stuff will eat into your battery.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh . This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

Alright, without further ado – let’s jump into the actual travels! And, as I am writing this, I realized there are so much to see and do in each region so I will be writing them in separate posts.

10-day Queensland Road Trip Itinerary

Here is how our road trip looked like on the map:

🗺 Save this map to your phone!  If you are a Google user, click on the image of the map above. The map will then be saved to your “Recent” maps viewed.  Click here for instructions on how to view the map later . It will work from your phone too.

We started out by flying from Singapore to Brisbane. It was an easy 7-hour direct flight with Emirates, my favorite airline (after Singapore Airlines of course). We flew red-eye since 7 hours flight is enough time for sleeping and we would land at 8am in Brisbane.

Here’s our 10-day Queensland Road Trip Itinerary:

• Gold Coast (3 days)
• Brisbane (1 day)
• Sunshine Coast (1 day)
• Noosa (1 day)
• Fraser Island (1 day)
• Back to Sunshine Coast (1 day)
• Back to Brisbane (1 day)
• Fly back to Singapore (1 day)

As there are so much to do in Queensland, I have separated the list of things I did in each city/region:

1. Gold Coast (3 Days)

Gold Coast is a major city in Queensland. It’s located only an hour drive south of Brisbane, making it very accessible from Singapore and other countries. Here is my Gold Coast post .

2. Brisbane (2 day)

Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, and one of the major cities in Australia. It’s the gateway into Queensland as you’d probably be flying into Brisbane if you’re coming from an international destination. You can walk along the Southbank cultural area – there are plenty of museums to check out, my favorite is the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA).

3. Sunshine Coast Hinterland (2 Days)

Our route up north to Noosa took us for a drive through Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a beautiful area just north of Brisbane that includes driving through the mountains and beachside. You can find my Sunshine Coast post here .

4. Noosa (1 Day)

Noosa is a beach resort town in the southern part of Queensland. Noosa Beach embodies everything Australian. From the surfers who peppered the beach trying to catch a wave, to the cool and chic Hasting street literally a minute walk away from the beach where you can get your fill of avocado toast and pretty acai bowl. You can take a surfing lesson or simply walk along the beach to Noosa National Park, which has hiking trail for all levels of fitness.

5. Fraser Island (Day trip)

Fraser Island draws tourism through its claim as the world’s largest sand island, but it still has abundant of life in it such as lush rainforest, lakes and mangroves. Check out this post for my day trip experience to Fraser Island !

Have you been to Queensland? Let me know what you think of my itinerary above!

• August 26, 2017

Hey there Melissa,

I’m for a while following you on Instagram and on a regular base reading your posts. I usually follow travel blogs only, I think you are the only food-related blog I follow 🙂

Me and some friends recently started a platform where travel bloggers can share experiences. I know you don’t need the promo since your blog is running perfectly, but if you would ever want to guest blog or share some info, we would be honoured! Could be cool to have something about your experience as a food expert!

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The best road trips in Queensland

16 June 2022

Travel from the coast to the outback and back again on any number of road trip journeys through Queensland. From stunning rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef to outback towns, coastal cities and iconic Australian sites – you’ll be surprised at every bend.

Border range loop drive, qld.

Take three days to experience this incredible loop drive that takes you to some of Queensland’s most picturesque places. Starting in Brisbane , you’ll head to Ipswich and across the Great Dividing Range to Warwick before heading to the villages of Tamborine Mountain.

In Ipswich, Queensland’s oldest provincial city, be sure to explore the stately homes and gardens before moving on to Queen Mary Falls, nestled in the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Allow around 40 minutes for the two-kilometre circuit walk, which will showcase the spectacular natural falls.

Continue on to the villages of Tamborine Mountain, which is a haven for talented artists who love to share their passions with passers-by. Next, during your visit to Mount Tamborine, make sure you head to Lamington National Park and explore the stunning rainforests. Even choose to walk some of the 300 kilometre scenic walking tracks.

Booyong Walk… explore one of the many trails in Lamington National Park.

Central Queensland outback drive

The recommendation is to allow nine days in order to experience every highlight this journey has to offer, but of course you can adjust the timing depending on how often you choose to stop off and how long you choose to spend in each place.

Follow the Tropic of Capricorn for the coast-to-outback-and-back-again trip, which includes iconic Australian sites and a whole heap of historical landmarks.

Highlights include Sapphire, where – you guessed it – you’re in the midst of the largest sapphire fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Get there early and spend some time fossicking for your own gems! In Longreach we recommend visiting the Qantas Founder’s Museum , where a full-sized Boeing 747 is the centrepiece.

From there, head to the tiny town of Rolleston, where you’ll be able to access Carnarvon National Park and explore 30-kilometres worth of white sandstone cliffs, if you’re game. You’ll also be able to check out the Aboriginal rock art, waterfalls and rock pools on site.

Carnarvon Gorge is one of the many highlights on a road trip through Central Queensland.

Airlie Beach to Cedar Creek Falls, Qld

Wanting to get away for the day and indulge in a little freshwater swimming? The journey from Airlie Beach to Cedar Creek takes just half an hour.

Once you’re there you’ll be able to dip your toes in the fresh emerald green water and dive under the stunning natural waterfall.

If you’ve got time to spare after your swim, make sure to stop in at Conway National Park close by, as here you can experience a breath-taking bird’s eye view of the Whitsundays .

Swim in the fresh emerald green water under the stunning natural waterfall at Cedar Creek Falls.

The Qld road-trip as done by Prince Charles and Camilla

The Royal pair took in their fair share of sights during their 2018 visit to Australia. Starting in Brisbane, they then carried on to the Gold Coast , after stopping in at what we’re told was one of their trip highlights; Broadbeach.

The next stop on the itinerary was Bundaberg , where Prince Charles indulged in a taste of the area’s famous export; Bundaberg Rum.

Upon arrival at the Great Barrier Reef , they issued a call-to-arms to position the Great Barrier Reef at the centre of the ‘blue economy’, before stopping in at the Daintree , where they were welcomed by a mass of fans. Hopefully your arrival will be a little calmer.

Protecting the Great Barrier Reef is more important than ever.

The Great Beach Drive, QLD

Just a short drive from Noosa , you’ll come across not one, but two UNESCO biosphere and a World Heritage-listed area.

Taking you across 380 kilometres of some of the most pristine – and deserted – beaches in Australia, the Great Beach Drive is one of the longest drives on earth. What makes this one different, is that for almost its entirety, you’re driving on the beach.

Besides taking in two UNESCO biosphere reserves (this is the only place on Earth where two biospheres connect) the drive will also take you by the largest sand island in the world.

You may not see another human for hours on end, but what you will see is some of the most incredible bird and plant species Australia has to offer.

Drive the largest sand island in the world.

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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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3-Day Sunshine Coast Itinerary: the ultimate road trip

With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, sprawling national parks, and an incredible food scene, Sunshine Coast is your perfect beachside retreat any time of the year.

Since the Sunshine Coast offers a great collection of stunning beaches and national parks, you will need at least three days on the Sunshine Coast to get a feel of this coastal paradise . More time is always preferred if your travel schedule allows it.

Here, I have put together a detailed 3-day itinerary for visiting the Sunshine Coast. I hope it’s helpful to you.

Day 1: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast

For most people, you will likely be visiting the Sunshine Coast from its capital, Brisbane. This can be done either by driving or by public transport.

The drive between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast only takes about 90 minutes and is relatively straightforward. This is also my suggested mode of transport when exploring the Sunshine Coast.

Although you can easily reach the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane by public transport , you will likely have trouble reaching many of the hinterland attractions by public transport.

If you haven’t already got a car, you can easily rent one from either Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast for the duration of your visit. Some car rental companies even offer return service at a location different from your pick-up location.

From my experience,  East Coast Car Rentals  and  Jucy  have the best pricing;   Budget  and  Hertz  tend to have a lot more pick-up locations and vehicles to choose from.

Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout

Wild Horse Mountain is just off Bruce Highway, about 1-hour drive north of Brisbane .

The Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout offers a spectacular view of the beautiful Sunshine Coast and the majestic Glasshouse Mountain. It makes the perfect spot to stretch your legs along the drive between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Ample parking is available at the base of Wild Horse Mountain, which is only a short 2 minutes drive off Bruce Highway .

The hike from the base of Wild Horse Mountain to the lookout platform at the summit is along a 700-metre bitumen road, but it is a rather steep walk. So make sure you wear comfy shoes when visiting.

It took me about 10 minutes to reach Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout from the car park , but you will want to plan some extra time to enjoy the views at the lookout.

Once you have stepped onto the lookout tower (it is, in fact, a fire tower used during high fire danger seasons for spotting fires in this region), you will be presented with a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the Sunshine Coast, the striking Glasshouse Mountain, and the distant Moreton Bay area.

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is another fire tower used for fire spotting during the high fire danger seasons. It provides an intimate view of the lush green Sunshine Coast Hinterland with the beautiful coastline in the distance.

Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is also off Bruce Highway but on the opposite side of Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout. The drive from Bruce Highway to Glasshouse Mountain Lookout is much longer in comparison and takes about 15 minutes .

However, you can drive directly to the lookout tower at Glasshouse Mountain with no hiking involved. So it can be an excellent option for people with mobility issues.

That said, there were a lot more people at Glasshouse Mountain Lookout than at Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout when I visited. With limited parking available at Glasshouse Mountain Lookout, it was a bit of a challenge when it came to finding a car park.

A couple more bonus points for visiting Glasshouse Mountain Lookout are: public toilets are available here (there were no toilets at Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout) & dirt tracks are available nearby for 4WDs and dirt bikes.

After checking out Sunshine Coast’s beautiful hinterland, we will now drive directly to the heart of Sunshine Coast to explore its incredible coastline.

Point Cartwright Lighthouse

Point Cartwright Lighthouse is a modern lighthouse in the gorgeous Point Cartwright Reserve, offering scenic walking tracks & a spectacular view of Mooloolah River Mouth and the wild ocean.

Once you have parked at Point Cartwright Lighthouse, you will be immediately presented with an alluring view of the expansive Buddina Beach and the deep blue ocean. A set of timber staircases is available near the car park if you want to stroll along this soft sandy beach and dip in its refreshing water.

Signage near the car park also suggested sea turtles are regularly spotted in the water here, but I couldn’t spot any during my visit. But you may want to have a try too.

After checking out Buddina Beach, follow the walking track uphill to Point Cartwright Lighthouse to admire the views from there. Since Point Cartwright Lighthouse stands on the highest point of this headland, you can typically get a rather impressive view of this stunning coastline from where it stands.

Right next to Point Cartwright Lighthouse, there is a massive water tank, Point Cartwright Water Tank , with colourful mural art. It was a beautiful ocean-themed mural when I visited & well worth checking out when in this area.

Continue to follow the coastline around Point Cartwright Reserve, and you will eventually head down to the peaceful Mooloolah River Mouth . With benches along its picturesque tree-lined riverbank, this area is the perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by.

A loop walk around Point Cartwright Reserve only takes 15-20 minutes. But you will likely want to spend more time admiring the idyllic views along your walk.

Public toilets can be located near the Point Cartwright Reserve car park.

After a relaxing stroll around Point Cartwright Reserve, we will head down to nearby Mooloolaba Beach for lunch and a cool swim.

Mooloolaba Beach

Mooloolaba Beach is a popular area among locals and visitors, with its soft sandy foreshore and buzzing esplanade. It is the perfect spot to spend an entire afternoon relaxing along the water.

As a patrolled beach , Mooloolaba Beach is great for a cool swim in its calm water. Volleyball nets are available along Mooloolaba Beach for those interested. Public toilets and showers are located right next to the beach for convenience.

Various shops and restaurants can be easily located along Mooloolaba Esplanade , providing a range of excellent lunch and dinner options overlooking the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach.

You can also find the lively Mooloolaba Wharf across the road from Mooloolaba Beach’s volleyball court. This is, in fact, my favourite place to grab a bite near Mooloolaba Beach.

Mooloolaba Wharf houses a diverse range of eateries, many serving the freshest catch of the day . It also has a good selection of boutique stores , which are worth checking out too.

While you are here at Mooloolaba Wharf, make sure you join one of the cruise tours departing from Mooloolaba Wharf to explore the peaceful Mooloolah River and its beautiful canals. A few of the cruise tours you may wish to check out are:

• Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is a massive marine park, located between Mooloolaba Beach and Mooloolaba Wharf. It is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, such as sharks, seals, penguins, rays, jellyfish, and many more. It is a great place to be surrounded by all kinds of marine animals & especially interesting for families with kids.

Once you have visited Mooloolaba Wharf / SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, make sure you take a stroll along the well-maintained Coastal Walkway for a sunset stroll towards Alexandra Headland.

Alexandra Headland

North of Mooloolaba Beach is a 2-kilometre stretch of picturesque coastline with stunning rock formations and pristine sandy beaches. A well-maintained walkway is available along this incredible coastline to take you from the buzzing Mooloolaba Beach to the lesser-known Alexandra Headland Beach.

This walk only takes less than 30 minutes one way & makes an ideal sunset stroll with multiple beach access, so you can easily check out the idyllic beaches and rock pools along your walk.

There are also many impressive vantage points along this coastal walk, where you can obtain a bird’s eye view of this beautiful coastline.

Many lizards were resting under the trees and bushes along this walk when I visited. Some people find them cute, but I’m afraid of reptiles in general. They won’t harm you, but you may want to watch out for them if you are also scared of lizards.

Once you have arrived at Alexandra Headland Beach , the coastal landscape opens up and turns into a long stretch of golden beach. It extends all the way to Maroochydore Beach, where it meets with Maroochy River Mouth.

Restaurants and bars are available along Alexandra Parade & it can be a great option for dinner with a marvellous sunset view over Alexandra Headland Beach .

Day 2: Sunshine Coast Hinterland

On the second day of this Sunshine Coast visit, we will start the day with a morning walk in the beautiful hinterland before checking out some interesting local attractions . Towards the afternoon, we will head back to the stunning beachfront to explore the charming Coolum Beach .

Buderim Forest Park

Buderim Forest Park is a green oasis in the hinterland, only a 15-minute drive west of Mooloolaba Beach .

There are two access points for Buderim Forest Park. The most popular one is via Quorn Close , on the southern end of Buderim Forest Park. This park entry is closer to the beloved Serenity Falls. It offers access to a shorter 20-minute loop walk around the Serenity Falls & a longer 1.5-hour return walk along the tranquil Martins Creek .

The other access point for Buderim Forest Park is via Lindsay Road , on the park’s northern end. From here, you can take the 1.5-hour return walk along Martins Creek to check out Serenity Falls at the opposite end of Buderim Forest Park. The first section of the walking track from Lindsay Road entry is a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk , which can be an excellent option for wheelchairs and prams.

The walking tracks within Buderim Forest Park will take you through open eucalypt forests to ancient rainforests. With the lush green ferns and tall canopies, you will be in complete disbelief that this park is only a 15-minute drive from the buzzing sunny coast you have just visited.

Regardless of the walking trail you choose, you will eventually find a charming elevated wooden bridge over a beautiful waterfall, the Serenity Falls . It is not a big waterfall but does create a few rock pools beneath, which are popular for visitors to swim in.

Tips: The track can get quite muddy and slippery around Serenity Falls, so be careful around there.

Car parks and public toilets are available via both entrances. You can also find picnic and BBQ facilities near the car parks.

The Ginger Factory

After a morning hike in Buderim Forest Park, we will take a 25-minute drive to visit an iconic Sunshine Coast attraction, The Ginger Factory.

The Ginger Factory is where you can find everything ginger related ! Here, you can find dried ginger cubes, ginger chocolates, ginger cordials, alcoholic ginger beverages, ginger honey, ginger ice cream, ginger scones, ginger beer battered fish, and you name it! It is a fun place to visit for all ages.

Entry to The Ginger Factory is free . Once you are here, you can browse and purchase from its vast selection of ginger products & check out the Ginger Cafe for lunch . There is also a decent-sized rainforest walk for everyone to enjoy.

Guided Factory Tour and Live Bee Show are available for discovering the paddock-to-plate story at The Ginger Factory & tickets are required to attend these guided tours. Free tastings of these delicious ginger products are available during the guided tours.

For families with kids, why not check out the Ginger Train and Overboard Boat Ride , which can be great fun for your little ones? Tickets are required for both the Ginger Train and the Overboard Boat Ride.

Once you have visited The Ginger Factory, you can also check out the Nutworks & Chocolate Factory , just opposite The Ginger Factory. Here, you can taste and purchase from a vast selection of macadamia nuts and chocolates. This is another iconic attraction on the Sunshine Coast.

Eumundi Markets

If you are visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday , make sure you also check out the famous Eumundi Markets, which is only a short 10-minute drive from The Ginger Factory.

Eumundi Markets is a huge open-air market with hundreds of stalls focussing on street foods and artisan gifts . With live music and a cool vibe, Eumundi Markets is an awesome place to spend a couple of hours.

After spending most of the day in Sunshine Coast’s charming hinterland, let’s now head back to the coast for a relaxing afternoon along the beach.

Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach is a wide sandy beach about halfway between Mooloolaba and Noosa Heads. It offers an open view of the wild ocean & backed by a vibrant esplanade with various shops and eateries. Being a patrolled beach with decent surf breaks, Coolum Beach makes the perfect spot to spend the afternoon swimming, surfing, and relaxing .

Towards the southern end of Coolum Beach, you can find a beautiful boardwalk along the top of a rocky headland. This boardwalk offers a spectacular coastal view of Coolum Beach and beyond. It can also take you directly to the pristine First Bay Coolum Beach , nicely tucked away by the surrounding headlands.

Mount Coolum National Park

If you still have some time after checking out Coolum Beach, why not check out the views from Mount Coolum Summit?

Mount Coolum is a just over 200-metre tall, dome-shaped mountain, which provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Coolum Beach and the nearby hinterland.

Although it is not a long hike from the base to the summit of Mount Coolum, it is a relatively steep climb with lots of steps, so you will need to plan at least 1.5-2 hours for a return trip when visiting Mount Coolum National Park.

Alternatively, you can check out Lows Lookout instead.

Lows Lookout is located on a small hilltop, just behind Coolum Beach. It is at the end of a residential street with a few designated car parks nearby, so you can drive straight to it for a bird’s eye view of Coolum Beach and the nearby mountain ranges.

That said, due to its low altitude and the overgrown trees nearby, the views from Lows Lookout are not as spectacular as from Mount Coolum.

Yaroomba Beach to Mudjimba Beach

If you are more interested in the sand and beaches, instead of a hike up Mount Coolum, why not check out the long stretch of sandy beach between Yaroomba and Mudjimba?

From Yaroomba to Mudjimba , you can find an over 10-kilometre stretch of soft sandy beach, perfect for swimming and surfing . It is one of the most peaceful beaches along the famous Sunshine Coast. So it makes the ideal beach getaway for those who just want to be away from the crowd.

During the whale-migrating season (June to October), the open beach between Yaroomba and Mudjimba is also great for whale watching . The whales were relatively close to shore when I visited, but I still suggest bringing a pair of binoculars if you have them.

A well-maintained boardwalk is available parallel to the foreshore area between Yaroomba and Marcoola . It is an excellent place for a sunset stroll . If you have a bicycle, bring it along, as it is also a great place for cycling .

Day 3: Noosa Heads

On the last day of this 3-day Sunshine Coast trip, we will head up to Noosa to check out the most famous region on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa Heads.

Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park is undoubtedly the most picturesque place in Noosa. It is home to tranquil rainforests and numerous pristine beaches. It is by far my favourite place to visit in Noosa Heads.

Located only one kilometre east of Noosa Heads Main Beach and the buzzing Hastings Street, you can visit Noosa National Park either by car or on foot from Noosa Heads Main Beach/Hastings Street.

There are many different walking tracks within Noosa National Park & the most popular walking trail is the Noosa Coastal Walk, a 10.8-kilometre return walk along the idyllic coastline of Noosa Headland. It also provides access to numerous pristine beaches and breathtaking lookouts along the walk. Among them, the most notable spots are: 

• Boiling Pot Lookout : a spectacular view of the wild ocean swells crashing onto the rocks beneath you, making it look like a pot of boiling water.
• Tea Tree Bay Beach : a secluded beach for swimming and surfing. Located only a 15-minute walk from the main entrance, you may want to bring your surfboard to hit the waves at this beautiful beach.
• Dolphin Point Lookout : a stunning lookout to reconnect with nature. There are pods of dolphins to be spotted from this lookout, but you’ll likely need to bring a pair of binoculars. Migrating whales can also be spotted between June and October.
• Fairy Pools : picturesque rock pool, which you can swim in during low tide.
• Hell’s Gate : for a breathtaking view of Alexandra Bay.

Hastings Street

After spending the morning in Noosa National Park, reward yourself with a tasty lunch and some retail therapy at Noosa’s iconic Hastings Street.

Hastings Street is a shopping strip parallel to the famous Noosa Heads Main Beach. It offers a great selection of  fashion boutiques ,  beachside resorts ,  trendy cafes ,  high-end restaurants , and  lively bars . It is the perfect place to unwind and fill your stomach in Noosa Heads.

Noosa Heads Main Beach

Just a short walk from the vibrant Hastings Street, you will find a soft sandy foreshore area at Noosa Heads Main Beach. With its calmer water and buzzing shopping street nearby, Noosa Heads Main Beach is perfect for spending an afternoon relaxing along the beach.

Laguna Lookout

Laguna Lookout is located on a small hill in Noosa Heads. It offers an impressive panoramic view of Laguna Bay, Noosa River, Noosa Heads, and the distant Sunshine Coast Hinterland .

You can visit Laguna Lookout at any time of the day, but I highly  recommend visiting Laguna Lookout just before sunset , so you can watch the sky turning into different shades of gold and purple over the beautiful Noosa Heads.

Laguna Lookout can be accessed either by car or by walking. If you have a car, I suggest  driving directly to Laguna Lookout , where you can find free designated car parks nearby. 

You can also easily reach Laguna Lookout by walking. It is a roughly  20 minutes walk between Hastings Street and Laguna Lookout (one way) but can be steep in certain sections.

Where to Stay on the Sunshine Coast

A few suggestions you may wish to check out are:

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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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Eat Drink and Be Kerry is your trusted source for unbiased and expertly curated content that feeds your curiosity and enriches your culinary and travel experiences.

At Eat Drink and Be Kerry, our editorial policy is founded on the principles of authenticity, quality, and trustworthiness. We are dedicated to providing our readers with unbiased, informative, and engaging content that revolves around the world of food, travel, and culinary experiences.

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10 Best Queensland Road Trips

Plus 3000km Queensland road trip itinerary by Katharine Fletcher.

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

A driving holiday opens doors to memorable and personal experiences, from the yarn with the bloke that owns the pub to seeing world-heritage listed scenery. From waterfalls to deserts, along the way, you’ll learn a little history as you settle into a relaxed tempo on the road on these fantastic Queensland road trips. If you love driving holidays, Queensland has a fantastic selection of routes to choose from. So pull out your road trip packing list and plan your next Queensland road trip adventure. 

1- Overlander’s Way

2- great tropical drive, 3- great green way, 4- cairns to cape york, 5- great inland touring route, 6- fraser island , 7- adventure way, 8- rainforest way, 9- birdsville to big red, 10- matilda highway, brisbane to cairns, atherton tablelands, granite gorge nature park, forty mile scrub national park, undara lava tubes, mount surprise, what you’ll see along the way, leichhardt falls, gregory to boodjamulla , boodjamulla (lawn hill) to cairns, 10 queensland road trips.

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
• 3 Day Cape Tribulation & Cooktown Tour from Cairns or Port Douglas
• Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience
• Townsville to Tennant Creek
• Distance: 1550 km
• Highlights:  Historic drovers route, cattle trucks, Townsville, Julia Creek. 

The Overlander’s Way is a Queensland road trip through the outback.

From Townsville in Queensland’s tropical north on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef , this Queensland road trip leads you west to Camooweal in outback Queensland , over the Northern Territory border to finish at Tennant Creek.

The 1550km Overlander’s Way is an iconic Queensland road trip named in honour of the drovers that herded huge mobs of cattle from the East Kimberley.

Today you’ll share the road with modern-day drovers and their long cattle trucks.

There is plenty of options for accommodation from camping to motel rooms and some B&B’s.

The towns of Townsville, Charters Towers (once known as ‘The World’ due to the gold discovered and still mined today), Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry, Mount Isa and Camooweal are all covered along the fully sealed drive.

It’s worth stopping a couple of days to tick off these things to do in Townsville and things to do in Charters Towers . 

It’s one of those typical outback Queensland road trips.

Festivals and rodeos such as the Mount Isa Rodeo and the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival and fossil hunting for ancient dinosaur bones are just a few of the many attractions along this route.

Other things to do include exploring Dalrymple National Park, Porcupine Gorge and Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond.

The Outback at Isa Hard Times Mine is a tour underground in an Alimak cage.

It’s a brilliant experience and one of the most memorable Queensland road trips you could do.

Then there’s the Mount Isa lookout at night, which has a view of a city that never sleeps and the Kalkadoon Cultural Centre. 

• Cairns to Cooktown
• Distance: 327km
• Highlights: Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest , Port Douglas and Cairns. 

Drive from Cairns in Tropical North Queensland and take in the reef and coastal townships along this remarkable coastal drive.

Localities include Palm Cove, Port Douglas, Daintree, Cape Tribulation and north to Cooktown.

From Cooktown, the trail heads west and winds its way down through the Atherton Tablelands to historic Charters Towers before finishing at Townsville back on the reef.

A side trip to Mackay and Eungella National Park is an option for extended touring on your north Queensland road trip.

I recommend this as a two-week drive, although sections can be done easily on their own.

As Queensland road trips go, the road is all bitumen and suitable for all road-worthy vehicles.

Other things to do include a photo stop at Rex Lookout, a visit to Cairns Aquarium , Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas and the view from the lookout in Cooktown.

Make sure you pop into the Lion’s Den Hotel for a beer.

Recommended tour: 3-Day Cape Tribulation & Cooktown Tour from Cairns or Port Douglas

• Townsville to Cairns
• Distance: 410km 
• Highlights: Coastal scenery, Magnetic Island, Townsville, Cairns. 

A favourite for any driver on a Queensland road trip, the Great Green Way hugs the coastline from Townsville to Cairns.

This drive between Cairns and Townsville is constantly rated in the top 10 in the world.

The scenery is breathtaking along the 410km fully sealed route suitable for all vehicles.

Allow at least two days to enjoy the sights.

There’s far too much to list here.

If you can allow the time to  visit Magnetic Island , it’s well worth it.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village is a top spot to get up and close and personal with some of the island’s wildlife.

The experience offers fun for all ages and you are assured of seeing one of the islands very special koalas.

A really fun way to see the island is by hiring a moke (my last one was called Bambi) and driving yourself around.

Roads around the island lead to exciting activities from eco jet-skiing tours, horse riding on the beach to cruises on yachts, markets and cafes and vantage points to finish your day with a magnificent sunset watching the sun dip over mainland Australia. 

Recommended tour: Magnetic Island Round-Trip Ferry From Townsville

• Cairns to Cape York
• Distance: 1200km
• Highlights: 4WD, Indigenous communities, Thursday and Horn Islands

Considered one of the last 4WD frontiers on Earth, this drive takes you to the northern-most point of Australia – Cape York.

Through untamed wilderness with creeks full of barramundi and saltwater crocodiles, the most ferocious of the species on the planet, this is an epic Queensland road trip that rewards those who are willing to do the forward planning and preparation.

This Queensland road trip is only suitable for experienced four-wheel drivers .

But if you don’t have the skills, there are independent tour operators that conduct regular tours to ‘The Tip’.

You’ll pass through indigenous communities where alcohol restrictions apply.

There is a range of accommodation options available from camping to resort style.

Other things to do include day tours to Thursday and Horn Islands.

The Daintree Discovery Centre is also worth visiting. 

• Hebel to Cairns
• Distance: 1863km
• Highlights: Bushranger history, Great Dividing Range, Carnarvon Gorge. 

This 1863km drive leads from the town of Hebel on the Queensland and New South Wales border to Cairns in the tropical north.

The Hebel Hotel is where the Kelly Gang used to drink.

The historic hotel still has a hitching rail for horses to be tethered but today modern vehicles are parked out the front. 

The fully sealed drive traverses the Great Dividing Range.

It’s one of those Queensland road trips with plenty of national parks and towns.

Culgoa, Carnarvon Gorge and Lake Nuga Nuga are my favourites.

Add museums such as Cobb and Co Changing Station complex in Surat, country sale days at Roma.

Throw in brilliant fishing and camping along with eateries and accommodation that caters for the drive market and you have a big tick for your Queensland road trip.

Other things to do include exploring Charters Towers and Ravenshoe (the highest town in Queensland at 930m) and relaxing in Innot Springs

• Around Fraser Island
• Highlights: Beach driving, Eli Creek, Coloured Sands, Indian Head. 

The world’s largest sand island with 75 miles of beach designated as an official road makes Fraser Island on the top of most must-visit lists in Queensland.

You’ll cross Eli Creek, see the rusting hull of the Maheno wreck and coloured sands, experience the Champagne Rock Pools and amazing views from Indian Head. 

For those new to driving on 75 Mile Beach, remember to give way to the airplanes that share the beach with you.

If you’re not sure about driving yourself, there are tour operators that offer drives around the island.

Fraser Island can be accessed from either Rainbow Beach or River Heads.

Time your drives with the tides.

There is a range of accommodation from basic camping sites to holiday homes and resorts.

Other things to do include visiting Pile Valley, Wanggoolba Creek and Lake McKenzie.

Recommended tour: K’gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

• Brisbane to South Australia
• Distance: 1152km
• Highlights: Burke and Wills trail, Dig Tree, Dalby. 

Leading from Brisbane’s city lights into the heart of the outback , the Adventure Way takes you along a route once frequented by swagman.

Innamincka in South Australia is the last town on this journey of 1152km.

It’s close to where explorers Bourke and Wills while making the first attempt to cross Australia, from south to north, lost their lives.

Camping is allowed along a designated section of Copper Creek on Nappa Merrie Station where the Dig Tree still stands and at Innaminka.

Allow at least four days to take in the towns and scenery along the way which include Dalby, St George, Cunnamulla, Thargomindah and Innamincka.

The road is sealed almost to the Dig Tree, which is an iconic Australian landmark .

If you do the alternative trip to Currawinya National Park we recommend a 4WD.

Other things to do include seeing the Face Tree, which is 30m downstream from the Dig Tree carved by John Dick in 1898, visiting the Artesian Hydro Power Plant at Thargomindah.

The plant is believed to be the oldest, working unit in Australia and possibly the world.

Visit Currawinya and Lake Bindegoley National Parks and attend Music in the Mulga at Wandilla.

• Links NSW and Queensland
• Highlights: Queensland’s rainforest. 

Exploring Queensland’s heritage-listed rainforests , just a short drive south of Brisbane via the Rainforest Way allows for spectacular scenery. 

See remarkable views from cliff-tops and ancient volcano rims as it meanders through thick lush rainforested sections.

It’s one of those quintessential Queensland road trips that lead you to waterfalls, babbling creeks, rare and endangered wildlife and picturesque villages.

The drive can be accomplished as a day drive however I recommend a two-night stay.

There are plenty of accommodation options and the road is suitable for all vehicles with adequate clearance.

Day pass fees apply to sections on the Rainforest Way. 

Other things to do include visiting Buck, the barefoot bush tucker man in Chillingham for the best fruit and vegetables, the Border Loop Lookout and Brindle Creek Walk

• Birdsville to the Big Red 
• Distance: 
• Highlights: Simpson Desert, Birdsville.  

Considered one of the top iconic Queensland road trips, the route from Birdsville to the top of Big Red (the largest sand dune in the Simpson Desert) takes you to one of Australia’s most arid and isolated places.

This is an area rich in outback colours. Ochre-tinged sand dunes are interspersed with grey cracked clay pans and purple gibber plains provide a striking contrast.

Big Red stands around 90m above sea level, though this does change as its sands shift with the wind.

Of the 1,100 sand dunes that form the Simpson Desert, it is the tallest.

It’s definitely a four-wheel drivers’ bucket list experience.

The Simpson Desert is closed between December 1 and March 15.

Allow a minimum of four days to cross the Simpson Desert from Birdsville.

Camping permits are required and you need to be self-sufficient, carry enough water, food and fuel and be travelling in a sound vehicle with adequate communication for remote travel.

Other things to do include a stop at the Birdsville Hotel – a must for any visit. 

Indulge in a pie from Rusty’s at the Birdsville Bakery – we can recommend the roo and red wine pie.

Visit the Visitor Information Centre and see the ruins of the Royal Mail Hotel (in town) and Carcory Ruins (approximately 80km north). 

• Karumba to Barrungin in NSW
• Distance: 1812km
• Highlights: Outback scenery, Charleville, Longreach, Gulf of Carpentaria. 

The Matilda Highway, a fully sealed 1812km road, stretches from the New South Wales border town of Barrungin all the way to Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

It is one of the longest themed drives in Queensland.

Allow at least four days to complete the whole drive but you’ll most probably need a week or more to fully experience the sights along the way.

Many sections of the road are unfenced and I advise not to travel from sunset to dawn as wildlife and stock often share the road with you.

During the day, the kangaroos are usually resting in the shade but beware of emus. 

Of all the Queensland road trips, this one is a classic drive through the outback to the barramundi filled waters of the Gulf where life takes on a slower and more relaxed pace.

It is suitable for all vehicles and there is a range of accommodation options along the way but it’s best to pre-book.

Other things to do include the Cosmos Experience and Bilby Show in Charleville, fishing for barramundi in The Gulf and enjoying a sunset cruise on the Wilson River at Longreach. 

Queensland Road Trip Itinerary – 3000 km

By Katharine Fletcher

Have road, will travel.

We’re keen roadies, so when it comes to understanding the heartbeat of a sprawling state like Queensland, we rent a camper van, gear up and head off on our road trip.

Not knowing quite what might be around the corner never daunts us.

We’re intrepid adventurers, perhaps like you?

All of the nearly 3,000 km circuit described here was suitable for our 2WD camper van.

Next time we’ll rent a 4WD to tackle most roads , flooded or clear, and gain access to more remote areas. 

Here’s what we did on our last Queensland road trip. 

We rented our camper van in Brisbane (here are some tips on where to stay in Brisbane ) and drove north along the Sunshine Coast to Cairns. From that coastal city, our back-of-beyond roadie adventure kicked in. 

Cairns to Mareeba

Waving goodbye to the Pacific and our snorkelling experiences on the Great Barrier Reef , we headed off on our road trip inland, first passing through the Cairns Highlands, then entering the undulating hills of the Atherton Tablelands.

Dairy cattle grazed in lush grassy paddocks and almost at every turn, breathtaking views captured our fancy – a pastoral contrast from the coastal, ocean landscape of the Sunshine Coast.

Further on, we entered the java region of Oz, where more than 70 per cent of the nations’ coffee crop is grown.

So a stop in Mareeba’s Coffee Works may be necessary for the driver…

Plan to visit the superb Mareeba Heritage Museum – also home to the “i” (Australia’s Visitor Information Centres).

Exhibits are wide-ranging, affording a good overview of the history of Queensland.

Here we learned about Aboriginal life prior to European contact and settlement, ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) involvement in Gallipoli, the waves of immigrants and types of agriculture, and much, much more – such as the ant-bed shovel.

Before roads and wifi, this region was “out back of nowhere”, so it’s fascinating to see the wireless station both made and used right here.

Communication was important as this and the telephone party line exhibit demonstrates. Many artefacts can be touched, a feature fascinating for more than youngsters.

Birding and wildlife watching is superb around Mareeba, so we camped at Granite Gorge Nature Park, north of Mareeba to experience the northern savannah (grassland) wilderness.

The park’s rare, endangered Unadorned Rock Wallabies – cute smaller cousins of kangaroos – can be fed here (staff provide macropod pellets so you can feed them this specially formulated, appropriate food). 

Walking tracks (paths) here are adventurous and some can be rugged because the boulders are immense: leaping from one to another can be awkward.

Happily, there are tracks designed for all levels of walker.

Be realistic about your capabilities – and have fun.

You’ll likely be awakened by the crazy “laughter” of kookaburras, but watch for birds like tawny owls at dusk, and during daytime koels, and many parrots and finches.

Ravenshoe to Georgetown

From Mareeba, via Highway 1, we checked out Windy Hill Wind Farm – the first wind farm in Queensland, built in 1996.

Wind turbines are controversial all over the world, but as a renewable energy source, they’re likely here to stay.

This farm`s viewing area shows their sleek industrial design to full advantage.

West and southwest took us to Forty Mile Scrub National Park, on the McBride Plateau.

This is a landscape of volcanic flows, and the park was created to conserve a remnant of dry rainforest, grassy woodlands, and the headwaters of three creeks.

Bottle (baobab) trees grow here, as do other rare species such as white bean, white cedar, and fig trees.

We particularly appreciated seeing our first baobabs outside of a botanic garden : their chubby trunks lend them their common name.

Camping by the roadside  is what we love to do, and out here, camping for free beneath a canopy of stars was awesome.

Nearby, Undara Lava Tubes – where lava once flowed from volcanic eruptions – make a fascinating stop.

We pressed on, travelling through Mount Surprise (a road stop with two petrol stations straddling the highway).

The settlement was a railway town and is the first Gulf Savannah town travellers from the east, like us, meet.

Although you need a permit, fossickers can search for gems: perhaps you will find topaz, quarts, cairngorm and others.

Next stop: Georgetown, a centre for the Etherton Goldfields located on the Etherton River – it was a dusty dry bed when we passed through on the Gulf Developmental Road.

In fact, throughout the outback, it’s astonishing to see road signs marking flood levels, because the landscape seems devoid of water.

While driving, we kept our eyes open for wildlife and here, despite the “seeming nothingness” as usual, there’s actually tons to see.

Brolgas were roadside, with grown-up chicks.

These large crane-like birds are sacred to Aboriginal peoples, and many legends and artwork featuring of these birds exist.

Romantically perhaps, their name means “native companion.” 

Another common sign alerts drivers to road trains.

These are large trucks, sometimes 53 (or more) metres long.

They travel at daunting speeds and we learned the protocols of driving off-shoulder (and sometimes stopping) while they pass.

Normanton to Karumba

Now we’re seriously in the grasslands, destination Karumba on the Gulf of Carpenteria.

We’re conscious of the luxury of driving in the laborious footsteps of doomed explorers, Burke and Wills, who perished trying to reach the Gulf.

Their Camp 119 lies about 30 km southwest of Normantown, our next destination.

Normantown is a cattle town on the Norman River.

Exploring, we discover a statue of Krys.

At 8.5 metres long, it’s the largest saltwater crocodile ever seen – shot by Krystina Pawlowska in July 1957 in the river.

It’s a daunting size, and as we approach Karumba, a timely reminder to tourists who wish to swim, that Aussie crocs are both fresh- and saltwater.

Undaunted, we pressed on to Karumba.

The capital of Gulf Country, here we were astonished by sprawling camper van parks largely occupied by semi-permanent residents.

Aussies are inveterate roadies and retirees among the tribe are dubbed “Grey Nomads.”

The moniker is apt, because many retired folks sell their homes, buy a lux camper van, and escape winter by hunkering down in places like Karumba.

Here, they fish, play cards, jog, and generally enjoy a relaxed life.

Travellers like us seamlessly interweave into the rhythm, appreciating Karumba’s fabulous sunsets.

Anglers will want to try fishing for delicious barramundi in the Norman River which boasts the largest such fish ever caught, at 6 metres.

Savannah Way

Via Normantown, we continued along the Savannah Way to Burketown.

Talking of Grey Nomads, we discovered they are a fount of knowledge – much the same as at International Hostels, they are serious travellers, not tourists.

Take time to strike up conversations, and like us, you may discover out-of-the-way but delightful non-touristy stops.

That’s how we found Leichhardt Falls, where veteran roadies not only welcomed us for supper but showed us how to dine on crabbies.

Resembling small lobsters, these crayfish were easily caught with inexpensive, small nets – and were delicious.

The Falls is astonishing: in June the broad river had shrunk, exposing a dramatic set of stepped waterfalls which we could only imagine as churning whitewater during wet season floods (November through April).

Our Grey Nomad pals also taught us to be wary of tranquil-looking “swimming holes.”

They showed us crocodile tracks and then, I gasped: “There’s one!”

Basking in the sunshine, a croc slowly opened and closed its jaws.

Although not a Krys in size, it was good enough warning for this keen swimmer to stay out of the water…

Now to Burketown … a town Wikipedia describes as “isolated”.

Its claims to fame are the annual Easter Barramundi fishing competition, celebrating the town being the barramundi capital of Oz.

Here too find the Burketown Pub, where fisher folks growl about “the ones that got away” – and compete regarding sizes and weights of ones which didn’t.

Don’t miss the Burketown “i” which has astonishing photos of the flooding of Musgrave and Burke streets.

Population 40.

That’s Gregory, in a nutshell, so seemingly, it’s “just another back o’ beyond service stops” for petrol and supplies.

But of course, there’s a story: the town grew up as part of the Gregory Downs Station – “stations” being Aussie for ranches.

The homestead was located in town and this cattle station was one of the Gulf Country’s first pastoral properties.

Another important thing: the Gregory River is perennial, meaning it always has water.

That’s critical for wildlife, so we weren’t surprised to find all sorts of critters, such as wallabies and wallaroos through to a host of birds.

Boodjamulla – the Aboriginal name for Lawn Hill Gorge National Park – is testimony to how crucial water is to life.

After having travelled from Cairns to Karumba to this parkland oasis, roadies well know the vast stretches of dryland.

And, we’ve seen the flood signage marked on stretches of dried, baked riverbeds.

So, Boodjamulla is indeed a sanctuary, where the welcome of the Waanyi peoples serves to remind us that these are sacred, special lands deserving of our respect as we explore.

And explore we did.

We camped at forested sites where a boobook owl surveyed us from its lofty perch.

We canoed upriver to explore the gorge and yes, saw freshwater crocs basking along the shore.

Despite their presence, I couldn’t resist a dip – so in we both plunged, flirting with disaster.

Happily, the cooling waters soothed our souls and we clambered out on the docks, refreshed.

We hiked, we sketched, and we luxuriated, appreciating shaded serenity.

It was hard to leave: the contrasting colours of red rock, turquoise waters, green rushes and trees, and a blue sky spoke to our hearts.

Leaving the park presented us with our first flooded road, forcing us to turn back and backtrack rather than risk getting bogged.

Backtrack we did to Gregory, then made our way south on the road more suited to 2WD vehicles.

At the Barkly Highway, we turned west, to the Northern Territories, and our final destination of Perth.

On a previous trip, we’d driven a station wagon east on the Barkly Highway through Mount Isa, then joined the Flinders Hwy beyond Cloncurry to bring us to Townsville – nearly 1,000 km of good road.

Townsville is fantastic, and a super way to return to ocean life.

Acquaint yourself with marine life at the Australian Institute of Marine Science, or take the ferry to Magnetic Island.

We did just that, so we could first identify marine life before we snorkelled, off-island, to see the fish and coral.

But that’s another extraordinary story.

Enjoy being a roadie, to get to know the back of beyond and the characters who make Australia rock ! 

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Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland © Tourism Australia

14-day Tropical North Queensland drive

Drive from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown, through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests to golden outback savannah, taking in tropical Queensland at its finest.

By Alissa Jenkins

Loop around lush Tropical North Queensland from  Cairns , gateway to the  Great Barrier Reef , up to Cooktown, rich with Aboriginal and early European history and down to  Townsville , to explore ancient rainforests, fruit plantations, gold mining towns and secluded hideaways along the way.

What to expect

• Snorkel around the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef
• Walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest to Mossman Gorge
• See the world’s largest collection of prehistoric rock art in Laura
• Time: 14 days
• Distance: 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Cairns 

Day 1: Cairns to Port Douglas

Flames of the Forest, Port Douglas, Queensland © Flames of the Forest

After breakfast at  Caffiend , one of many hip cafés along Grafton Street in Cairns, drive 68 kilometres (42 miles) north towards  Port Douglas . Fifteen minutes out of Cairns, exit the Captain Cook Highway at Smithfield to take the  Skyrail Rainforest Cableway  for an incredible 90-minute ride over World Heritage-listed rainforest. Hop off Skyrail at the Kuranda terminal, stretch your legs with a stroll around the charming village of Kuranda and then board the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway  for the 60-minute return trip to Smithfield. 

Back on the road, drive beside a golden chain of beaches to affluent Palm Cove. Hungry travellers should head to Palm Cove's award-winning  Nu Nu Restaurant , which showcases Queensland seafood with a subtle Asian twist and serves lunch until 4pm.

Continuing along the Cook Highway, stop halfway at Rex Lookout for magical views over the Coral Sea beaches, before reaching Port Douglas. Peruse the chic boutiques along Macrossan Street before a sunset stroll along the white sands of Four Mile Beach up to Flagstaff Hill Lookout. Don't miss a truly enchanting meal with the  Flames of the Forest Aboriginal Cultural Experience , where you'll venture into the rainforest near Port Douglas to indulge in a seven-dish banquet as your Kuku Yalanji hosts share music, ceremony and storytelling. Spend the night at  Peppers Beach Club , nestled in a garden setting just steps from the beach.

Day 2: Port Douglas

Port Douglas, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

If you're travelling through Port Douglas on a Sunday, check out the weekly markets which offer everything from arts and crafts, coffee and jewellery. 

Spend the day on board a snorkelling and diving cruise of the Great Barrier Reef. There are several local operators such as Calypso Reef Cruises , Quicksilver Cruises and  Wavelength , each offering daily tours from Reef Marina in Port Douglas. Whichever you choose, you can expect a memorable introduction to the world’s largest coral reef, home to more than 3,000 individual reef systems and coral cays, plus hundreds of stunning islands with sun-soaked beaches. Underneath the water’s surface though, is a kaleidoscope of coral and other aquatic life including tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and giant clams, which you can swim with. After a day on the water, wine and dine amid a tropical garden at the well-known  Nautilus Restaurant .

Day 3: Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation

Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, Mossman Gorge Centre, Queensland © Tourism Australia 

Continue north for one and a half hours along Cape Tribulation Road and explore the region’s other icon, the  Daintree National Park , home to the majestic Mossman Gorge. Start with a trip to the Mossman Gorge Centre , the gateway to the rainforest. Meander through the ancient forest on your own along the  Rainforest Circuit Track , which begins at Rex Creek bridge and entails a 2.5-kilometre (1.5-mile) loop with incredible views. Or, gain a deeper connection to the rainforest with a guided Dreamtime walk . Your experience begins with a traditional smoking welcome ceremony before you stroll along private paths with your Kuku Yalanji guide, who will share their traditions and culture passed down over thousands of years.

After you've explored the forest, book in for an afternoon Daintree River cruise  through mangrove estuaries and past tropical birds and crocodiles, before continuing the drive for another hour or so to Cape Tribulation. Check into  Cape Trib Beach House  for the night which is set on seven acres (2.8 hectares). Here you can swim in the resort pool, get a massage on the private beach, feast at the on-site restaurant and bar and attend nightly bonfires on the beach.

Day 4: Cape Tribulation to Cooktown

Grassy Hill Lookout, Cooktown, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Wake up with a 45-minute walk to Cape Tribulation lookout on Cape Tribulation Beach, right next to the resort. Next, drive north for an hour to see the sacred  Bloomfield (Wujal Wujal) Falls  with a guide, and learn about the cultural significance of this area for Indigenous Australians. Watch out for crocodiles though, they’ve been known to sunbake on the nearby rocks. Venture into  Black Mountain National Park  and see the imposing mountain range of black granite boulders, stacked precariously on top of another, defying gravity. Then continue north on the Mulligan Highway for 20 minutes to historic Cooktown, and climb to the top of Grassy Hill in the town centre for a breathtaking view. Rest for the night at the four-star  Sovereign Resort Hotel .

Day 5: Cooktown to Mount Mulligan

Mt Mulligan Lodge, Mount Mulligan, Queensland © Mt Mulligan Lodge

Visit  James Cook Museum , housed in a stunning 19th century former convent, for a look into Cooktown’s remarkable history. When you're ready to depart Cooktown, you can choose between driving just over four hours to Ravenshoe, or taking a detour to Mt Mulligan Lodge . Located in the ruggedly beautiful Mount Mulligan, this all-inclusive outback station is all about quintessential Australian experiences combined with effortless luxury. Spend a few days here indulging in the lodge's outback excursions, like private picnics and gold mine tours, or simply relax in the landscape of rolling hills and ancient rock formations. 

Day 6: Mount Mulligan to Malanda

Millaa Millaa Falls, Millaa Millaa, Queensland © Scott Pass

Say goodbye to Mount Mulligan before driving just over two hours to Malanda. Stop for lunch in Atherton, then explore the nearby  Hallorans Hill Conservation Park . Walk 40 minutes to the top of extinct volcano Hallorans Hill to see the tableland’s unique mosaic landscape and geological formations. Before you reach your final destination, take the short detour to see Millaa Millaa Falls , a magnificent waterfall surrounded by lush green rainforest. Drive just 25 more minutes to end the day in Malanda, and spend the night under the rainforest canopy at Sharlynn by the river . Hallorans Hill Conservation Park

Day 7: Malanda to Undara Volcanic National Park

Undara Experience, Undara, Queensland © Rowan Bestmann, Tourism and Events Queensland

Head southwest for 50 minutes to  Millstream Falls , Australia’s widest single-drop waterfall, for a brief stop before spending the morning at  Innot Hot Springs , relaxing in the therapeutic mineral waters that fill its six public pools. In the afternoon, drive just over one-hour to  Undara Volcanic National Park , home to the remnants of the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcano. Allow one and a half hours for the Kalkani Crater rim walk, which takes you up the side of a volcano and offers incredible views over the lava plains and fertile pockets of rainforest. Then sleep under the stars at  Undara Experience , with permanent and powered tents that house comfortable bedding.

Day 8: Undara Volcanic National Park to Charters Towers

Texas longhorn cattle, Charters Towers, Queensland © Melissa Findley, Tourism and Events Queensland

Continue 400 kilometres south (249 miles) to the enchanting outback town of  Charters Towers , where the heritage streetscapes hark back to the gold rush days of the late 19th century. Spend the afternoon just outside of town at Leahton Park, home to the largest herd of pure bred Texas Longhorn cattle in Australia. Buckle up for a  Texas Longhorn Wagon Tour  then explore the custom saddlery shop. Afterwards, spend the evening at the historic Civic Club, play billiards on one of two 100-year-old tables and don't forget to make a booking for their famous Friday night barbecue.

Day 9: Charters Towers to Townsville

Museum of Underwater Art, Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Follow the Flinders Highway east for 125 kilometres (78 miles) before detouring to  Bowling Green Bay National Park , home to rugged mountains, wetlands, salt pans and mangrove forests. Walk one kilometre (0.6 miles) return to Alligator Creek lookout for a photogenic canopy-level view of the creek, before a quick dip in the nearby swimming area.

Continue to Townsville in time for lunch at  The Beet Bar  for superfood bowls, salads and juices that celebrate local produce. Explore the phenomenal Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) , the Southern Hemisphere's first underwater art museum, before whiling away the rest of the afternoon along the Strand, a palm-tree studded promenade with beaches, bars and restaurants. Later, indulge in some balmy nightlife on Flinders Street East at  Shaw & Co  or  Cactus Jack’s .

Day 10: Townsville to Ingham

Little Crystal Creek, Paluma Range National Park, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Follow the Bruce Highway north for about an hour before taking a break in the Mount Spec section of  Paluma Range National Park . Walk to McClellands lookout for spectacular views over the islands and coastline. Cool off at nearby Little Crystal Creek before driving the remaining 45 minutes to Ingham, a sugar cane town with a distinctly Mediterranean feel thanks to the Italian and Spanish migrants who came here at the end of the 19th century to work in the cane fields. Linger over lunch at eternal favourite  Casa Pasta  then walk off the authentic Italian fare by joining the signposted Hinchinbrook Heritage Walk, between Ingham and neighbouring Halifax. For a fittingly European-inspired stay,  Villa Veron  is a charming bed and breakfast which also hosts an Italian festival every year.

Day 11: Ingham to Cardwell

Zoe Falls, Hinchinbrook Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia

If time permits, drive about one hour west of Ingham to see  Wallaman Falls , Australia's highest single-drop waterfall. 

Drive just 20 minutes to the coastal town of Lucinda where you can board a  ferry to Hinchinbrook Island  for the day. Australia’s largest island national park is covered in mountains, fragile heathland, tropical rainforest and mangrove fringes. An island day tour takes you down the picturesque Hinchinbrook Channel before arriving at Zoe Bay on the island’s southeastern side. From the beach landing, take a short walk through rainforest to the sparkling freshwater pool at the base of Zoe Falls, an idyllic swimming hole. On the way back to Lucinda, watch out for the six-kilometre (four-mile) sugar loading jetty, the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. Once back on land, drive 45 minutes north to Cardwell.

Day 12: Cardwell to Mission Beach

Mission Beach, Queensland © Chris McLennan, Tourism and Events Queensland

Pack a picnic and spend the morning exploring tropical  Tully Gorge National Park . From the camping area, stroll along the Butterfly walk (it’s renowned for the Ulysses butterflies that flit along this passage between September and February) through World Heritage-listed rainforest to the gorge. Tully River is popular with whitewater rafters and you can see these thrill seekers take on the rapids from Flip Wilson lookout. Continue east for an hour to Mission Beach and check into  Castaways Resort  before ditching the car for a bike and cycling along the city’s foreshore, including the  Ulysses Link Walking Track , past artworks depicting the area’s Aboriginal and European history. If you're seeking a thrill, take to the skies with Skydive Australia to soar above white-sand beaches, tropical rainforest and the awe-inspiring reef.

8 must-do reef experiences near Cairns

Day 13: Mission Beach to Innisfail

Paronella Park, Mena Creek, Queensland © Mark Clinton, Tourism and Events Queensland

Turn off Bruce Highway to visit  Paronella Park , a labour of love built in 1935 by Spanish immigrant José Paronella and inspired by Catalan castles. Set on five hectares (12.4 acres) of tropical gardens beside Mena Creek, you can peruse the castle’s architecture and ingenious hydroelectric system, as well as a waterfall, gardens, museum and café. Then drive half an hour west to the spectacular  Mamu Tropical Skywalk , featuring a 350-metre (0.2-mile) elevated walkway above the treetops. Finish the day in the bustling sugar town of Innisfail.

Day 14: Innisfail to Cairns

Josephine Falls, Wooroonooran National Park, Queensland © Colyn Huber, Tourism and Events Queensland

Drive half an hour west again into  Wooroonooran National Park , home to fascinating native critters such as double-eyed fig parrots and musky rat-kangaroos, as well as Mt Bartle Frere, Queensland’s highest mountain. Follow the signs to Henrietta Creek Campground where you'll find the beginning of the  Nandroya Falls circuit . Allow four hours to complete the walk, which takes you across the ridge between Henrietta and Douglas creeks, before winding down to the spectacular, double-tiered Nandroya Falls. Take the long track back to the campground and enjoy a rainforest dip at Douglas Creek. Back on the road, continue north along the Bruce Highway to return to Cairns, gateway to the islands, rainforest and reef of Tropical North Queensland.

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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...

Meeting Berlin: Famous Landmarks

A Snapshot of Stunning Kananaskis Country

Update from the Road: Vancouver to Prince Rupert (Day 1-8)

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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Idalia National Park Camping Guide

Welford national park camping options, queensland & beyond.

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Queensland 35 days road trip itinerary feasible? - Queensland Forum

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Having taken hints and tips from forumites, my road trip has expanded from 2 weeks 🤣 to 5 weeks.

Days chilling are necessary as we’re not spring chickens anymore.

Over night after flights from UK at Coral sea hotel Cairns

Collect motorhome and travel to Port Douglas via Smithfield Coles for provisions.

5 nights Tropic Breeze Caravan Park for jet lag recovery, Low Isles tour GBR, Kuranda. Mossman Gorge on route to Daintree.

All days flexible then from Daintree to Noosa River.

Daintree Riverview caravan park, Birding/wildlife tour booked with Daintree boatman 15 October

Atherton Tablelands, for Waterfalls, Ravenshoe, granite gorge creek rock wallabies, Hasties swamp bird hide, caravan park overnight

tarzali platypus park, Yungaburra, lake Eacham bird walk circuit and paronella park.

Mission Beach or Etty Bay, for cassowary spotting and chilling.

Townsville Rowes Bay caravan park via TYTO wetlands for Aquascene Magnetic Island , Magnetic Island, Billabong Sanctuary and chilling.

Cape Hillsborough Nature Park for ‘skippies on the beach’, Eungella Broken river for platypus spotting and chilling.

Sapphire Caravan Park , touring the gemfields.

Yeppoon either NRMA Capricorn caravan park or Beachside Holiday Caravan park for Capricorn Caves, Great Keppel Island and chilling.

1770 to break Yeppoon to Hervey Bay and 1770reef to Lady Musgrave Island.

Hervey Bay via Jim’s Roadside Art for K’gari, Tasman Venture K’gari experience.

Noosa river Holiday Park arriving 7 November. Everglades ++

Brisbane North Rental Village via Australia Zoo 10 November for motorhome prep for handover 11 November

Many thanks

13 replies to this topic

Phil’s, I have done outer reef and low isles. I’m not a strong swimmer - I prefer to snorkel with a pool noodle or a life jacket on, both which offer you extra buoyancy. I believe the outer reef boats will provide pool noodles - particularly the ones that go to pontoons. I would strongly recommend outer reef over Low Isles, as the coral at LI was basically dead - brown and covered in slime, with barely any fish life. We enjoyed the day out for the food, the boat ride itself and particularly the guided island walk, but we only chose this because we had our disabled young son with us - if I was doing it again, even with my son, I would do Wavelength instead.

Magnetic Island is so worth more than a day. We spent a week last year after spending a day the year before. We did the Forts Walk both times-bring water. So many great seaside restaurants in Horseshoe bay-

Aquacene is one of the best tours we’ve done anywhere . Highest recommendation, but the visibility for snorkeling is just meh.

Even if you aren’t great snorkelers, I’d bag the low isles for the ABC tour. 1 guide to 6 people, even with a noodle you’ll see more than the Low Isles because of the superior visibility. And the coral and giant clams are incredible, not to mention the variety of sea creatures. There were mostly novices on both our trips(1 year apart) and most of the people were our age or older(62). And if you’re doing lady musgrave first, you’ll be disappointed w the Low Isles anyway.

We saw a cassowary on the Jindalba Boardwalk in the Daintree-way too close!

We saw platypus in the wild in Yungsburra -not on the viewing platform but about 30 meters west under the bridge there’s a nice path by the river that’s definitely overlooked. We also saw one swimming in the rock pool at Babinda Boulders, which I hope you are including. The bakery in town is to die for!

Hartleys, not Harley’s-typo

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