road trip south east queensland

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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A South East Queensland itinerary to help you plan your own trip

If you are planning on visiting Australia’s sunshine state you might be wondering where to start. From Cape York to Coolangatta and everything in between, there is a lot to see and do when planning your South East Queensland itinerary.

In this article we focus on a South East Queensland road trip including the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. So here is our South East Queensland itinerary to help you create your own memorable trip.

Queensland road trip itinerary- renting a car

South east queensland itinerary – where to start, south east queensland itinerary in a nutshell, ending your south east queensland road trip, queensland road trip itinerary – a recap.

We recommend starting your South East Queensland road trip at the Gold Coast. From here you can easily rent a car. Having your own car is the best way to explore Queensland as it gives you a lot of flexibility, and believe us you will want to stop the car to take photographs a lot!

When renting a car in Australia it is best going for the full insurance option. Yes it might cost you a bit more money, but in our opinion when renting a car it is better to be safe than sorry. I also know someone who hired a car without full insurance in Australia and failed to note a small bump on their original inventory, and they were charged with a hefty bill when they returned it.

Manual and automatic cars are both readily available in Australia, so more often than not you do get to choose, although automatics tend to be slightly more expensive. When choosing your car size don’t forget that Australia has some pretty big roads, so we don’t recommend getting a really small car. Get something in the middle that has a bit of power, as there are times when the highway speed limit goes up to 110kms per hour.

As mentioned above, the best place to start your South East Queensland itinerary is the Gold Coast. Located close to the New South Wales Border, it is the perfect place to start. Getting to the Gold Coast is relatively easy especially if you are flying from another destination in Australia. The Gold Coast airport is the 6th busiest in Australia and has a number of daily flights.

South East Queensland itinerary- the details

Here are some details for our south east Queensland itinerary to help you plan.

Days 1-2 The Gold Coast and Gold Coast Hinterland

As mentioned above the best place to start your South East Queensland itinerary is at the Gold Coast. With sunshine, white sandy beaches and an incredible nightlife it really is a great place to start. We recommend taking one day to enjoy the beaches of Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach, and taking the second day to explore the Gold Coast Hinterland. You can read more about things to do at the Gold Coast here , but for an overview you can have a look at the below.

Also if you are wondering when the best time to visit the Gold Coast is, here is a handy guide.

Gold Coast- Things to do

Spend some time at Surfers Paradise

One of the tourist highlights at the Gold Coast has to be Surfers Paradise. It is the perfect place to go for shopping, dining, and of course surfing. Here you can also visit the Gold Coast’s tallest building Q1 for 360 degree views of the Gold Coast.

Feed the Lorikeets at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

At Currumbin you can become acquainted with some Aussie wildlife such as the Rainbow Lorikeets who will happily feed out of your hands. You can also feed the Kangaroos who will often rip the food bag straight from your hand and hop off!

Visit one of the theme parks the Gold Coast is famous for  

The Gold Coast is famous for being the home to some of Australia’s best theme parks. You have  Dreamworld , which is a theme park designed for thrill seekers who love rides.  Movie World , which is a Warner Bros themed park with a mix of rides and film studios. And you also have  Wet n Wild , a theme park totally dedicated to water slides.

Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland 

The Gold Coast isn’t all beaches. If you venture out into the hinterland you will find rainforests and magical treetop walks waiting to be explored.

Where to stay at the Gold Coast

You have a number of accommodation options at the Gold Coast to fit every budget. We stayed at Q1, and this included underground car parking. If you request a higher floor you get a fantastic view of the beach. The good thing with Q1 is that you are booking an apartment which includes a lounge and kitchen facility for you to use. There are also a number of hotels at the Gold Coast if you prefer.

Days 3-4 Brisbane

Getting to Brisbane from the Gold Coast usually only takes around 1 hour, but this obviously depends on traffic. Brisbane is often overlooked for other big cities in Australia, but we definitely think it is worth exploring . Brisbane has some great coffee shops, places for alfresco dining, and some beautiful parks to enjoy the sunshine. If you are spending longer in Brisbane here is an article to help you plan your trip , but in the meantime here are the best things to do in the city.

Brisbane – Things to do

Feed a kangaroo at lone pine koala sanctuary.

If you have ever wanted to get up close and personal with a roo, or watch Koala chew some Eucalyptus, then Lone Pine is for you. Here you can learn all about the unique Australian Wildlife which is a must on any trip to the country.

Climb the Story Bridge

This is probably for the daredevils among you and is one of the best ways to get some bird’s eye views over Brisbane. If heights aren’t your thing, you can still get some spectacular views from the nearby Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and the good thing is you can keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.

South Bank Parklands & The Cultural Precinct

Located on the banks of the Brisbane River are the South Bank Parklands. Sprawled out over 17 hectares of prime riverside land you will find this inner city oasis. The Parklands are a great place to have a BBQ or even better go for a swim. There is a public swimming facility which resembles a beach with the stunning Central Business District (CBD) as a backdrop.

If you are feeling a little bit more cultural then also located in South Bank is Brisbane’s cultural precinct. Here you can visit the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), The Queensland Museum and Science Centre, The State Library, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). The Queensland Art Gallery is certainly worth a visit especially as a lot of the art work has a focus on Australia, Asia, and the Pacific. It is also a great place to see some Indigenous Art which is an important part of Australian history.

Mount Coot-tha Botanical Gardens

The gardens showcase a range of diverse themes, from the serene Japanese Garden to the Australian scrubland ready to explore. The gardens are a great place to sit and relax so bring a picnic rug if you can.

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

If you want some amazing views over Brisbane the Mount Coot-tha Lookout is a great place to go. Mount Coot-tha itself is a national park and there are a ton of walking trails and BBQ spots that you will discover as you make your way to the lookout at the top.

Ride the CityCat

Brisbane is a river city so a ride on the CityCat is a must. The cool thing is this is part of the Brisbane public transport network so you can sail down the river with the wind in your hair, and get to where you want to go to.

New Farm Park

New Farm is one of our favourite parks in the whole of Brisbane. It is a heritage listed public park and is also one of the grandest and oldest parks in the city. The park covers 15 hectares and sits just along the Brisbane River. We recommend taking the Ferry from South Bank to New Farm Park particularly as it is a beautiful trip that takes you right under the Story Bridge.

Eagle Street

Eagle street is another riverside area in Brisbane perfect for exploring on foot. It is located in the heart of the CBD but is also known for its upper class dining and drinking. It is the perfect place to go to sip drinks by the river as well as enjoying a more expensive meal.

XXXX Brewery Tour

Right, so beer in Australia is a pretty big deal. And each state is quite competitive in producing their own local beer. Queensland’s contribution is XXXX (said 4 X). The tour is a great way to get to grips with how it is made, as well as how to pour a perfect beer. On top of that you do get to do some tasting which is always a bonus.

Where to stay in Brisbane

Ideally you want to stay somewhere central such as the CBD or even in the South Bank area. If you have a car make sure your accommodation comes with parking.

Day 5 – Bribie Island & Sunshine Coast

Bribie Island is located about an hour from Brisbane, and makes a great place to stop off as you make your way further into the Sunshine Coast. The island is accessible by bridge, and is a great place to go to experience some true Australian beauty that isn’t totally overcrowded with tourists.

Bribie Island – Things to do

Visit the beaches.

Bribie is paradise to beach lovers, and the island consists of several kilometres of beautiful beach.

A must in Bribie Island is to hire a boat and go fishing for the afternoon. Even if you don’t catch anything (or don’t want to) it still makes for a fun afternoon.

Days 5 – 7 Sunshine Coast

The final stop on our South East Queensland 1 week road trip is the Sunshine Coast. After spending the day at Bribie Island we recommend spending the evening in the Sunshine Coast. Caloundra and Noosa are two of the more popular places to stay, and will act as a great base, before driving back to Brisbane on Day 7 to return the car.

If you are tossing up between visiting the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast here is a handy guide.

Sunshine Coast – Things to do

Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park is absolutely stunning and really should be explored as part of your South East Queensland 1 week road trip. There are a number of coastal walks you can do and it is a great opportunity to really experience the flora and fauna Australia has to offer.

Australia Zoo

Made famous by Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo is a great place to go to see some of Australia’s wildlife up close and personal. I’m not usually a zoo fan, but one good thing about Australia Zoo is that they donate a lot of money and resources towards conservation projects.

Hit the Beach

There are so many beautiful beaches at the Sunshine Coast, and some absolute must visits are Noosa, Caloundra, Maroochydore, and Dicky Beach. Dicky Beach tends to be the quieter of the bunch so it is a great place to go to relax.

Explore the Glasshouse Mountains

The distinguishable Glass House Mountains are seen from the highway as you drive towards the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane. They form part of the Glass House Mountains National Park. You can drive through with many places to stop along the way.

Where to stay on the Sunshine Coast

Like the Gold Coast you can rent a self contained apartment on the Sunshine Coast, which includes a kitchen and lounge as well as separate bedrooms. Caloundra and Noosa are really popular with holiday goers and there are a lot of restaurants and cafes in these areas.

Our South East Queensland itinerary ends in Brisbane. The reason being because Brisbane is such a big city. If you are planning on flying elsewhere in Australia or further abroad then this is where the airport is. Additionally there are far more transport links from Brisbane than the Sunshine Coast. If you are planning on driving further afield though, then there is no need to head back to Brisbane, just keep exploring!

Hopefully this article will help you plan your own south east Queensland itinerary. Queensland is such a big place and there is so much more to see, so if you have the time do consider driving further north after you have visited the sights of South East Queensland.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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I haven’t been to this part of Austalia yet. I agree that having your car is the best way to explore. I know I would want to make a lot of stops to take photos.

We highly recommend it. It is actually where I am from originally so I am probably a little bit biased!

I can’t believe that 4X does a brewery tour! I also may have partaken in a few anti-4X jokes in my time. My beer racism aside, Queensland is gorgeous and I wish I’d visited more before I moved away! Great itinerary!

Thanks so much! It is crazy how nasty things can turn when you insult beer! Good old Australia.

Queensland is one of the best places for a road trip! I absolutely love the Sunshine Coast. 🙂 Great guide to Brisbane too – although there’s also the free City Hopper ferry, which is better to get around the main places than the City Cat. Love this itinerary!

I’ll have to try the City Hopper next time! Thanks for the tip. x

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Amazing 7-Day Road Trip From Brisbane

Discover the best of Queensland on this 7-day road trip from Brisbane.

South East Queensland offers so much. From picture-perfect surf beaches, quiet sleepy bays, tall eucalypt forests, and waterfalls plunging into rock pools – perfect for swimming…Experience Queensland’s hospitality, along with the climate…all seasons are great for visiting South East Queensland!

But before you rush away, please feel free to consider your packing requirements. Please take a look at ou r camping checklist and best camping food list. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s see what this 7-day road trip through southeast Queensland discovers…

On this Road Trip from Brisbane, Discover Noosa, Tin Can Bay, and Dusty Hill Vineyard.

This 7-day road trip from Brisbane showcases exciting and varied locations, including natural features and rural towns. Sites are perfect for RV travel, with accommodations for those who like more comfort!

7- day Road Trip From Brisbane

Day 1: Noosa River Holiday Park . Located on the banks of the stunning Noosa River. If hotel accommodation is your thing there are plenty of choices in the area! Stay for 2 nights.

What to do in Noosa?

Staying central in Noosa means the accessible location to walkways, parks, and the bustling boutiques & eateries of Hastings Street. Explore Noosa Coastal Walk at Noosa National Park. Get out on the water paddle boarding at SUP Noosa School! Or maybe relax by the Noosa River on the beach…

Day 3: Kingfisher Caravan Park . Stay by the sleepy Bay at Tin Can Bay! Stay for 1 night.

What to do in Tin Can Bay?

Explore the bay at low tide and discover bird life, crabs, and shells…further the experience at Barnacles Marine Centre with Dolphin feeding! Satisfy food cravings at one of the many cafes or pubs, or visit the local IGA for your own food creations… Rainbow Beach or Seary’s Creek day-use area is a little further away, but perfect for a scenic and refreshing exploration…

Day 4: Travel through the rolling landscape to Yallakool Tourist Park . Adore water views of Bejelki Peterson Dam and its surrounds while the sun sets. Stay for one night.

What to do in the South Burnett?

Did someone say wine? Taste the region at the nearby wineries: Dusty Hill Vineyard, Clovely Estate Vineyard, or Nuova Scuola Wines…there is also Prendergast Irish Tavern. Nearby is the Kingaroy to Kilkivan Rail Trail and Mountain Bike trails at Gordonbrook Dam. Or relax while watching the birdlife while watching the sunset!

Discover the stunning granite gorge and walking trails at Crows Nest National Park.

Day 5: Crows Nest Falls camping area . Explore the stunning gorge, rock pools and lookouts from the walking trails at Crown Nest National Park. For accommodation lovers, see Crows Nest Qld Tourist Park or Anduramba Homestead B & B, stay for 1 night.

What to do near Crows Nest Qld?

Crows Nest is a pretty rural town located in the Toowoomba district and, for a small town, has a lot to offer. Step back in time at the Crows Nest Museum and Historical Villiage. Next, discover a taste sensation at Crows Nest Soft Drinks or stop for a coffee and a locally made treat from Lily’s Artisan. Just 7 km from town, Crows Nest Falls National Park protects spectacular creek scenery with granite outcrops supporting the scenic waterfall and pools along Crows Nest Creek. Spot Platypus, Swamp Wallaby, Lace Monitors, and birds are amongst the eucalypt forest. Could you drive to the Perseverance Dam lookout and the viewing deck? And you can’t beat country hospitality at the Grand Old Crow Hotel for lunch or a cold drink!

Day 6: Queen Mary Falls Caravan Park on Falls Dive Killarney. Stay for 1 night.

What to do near Killarney?

The township of Killarney is worth a walk-through with its quaint shops and sure to lure you into a cafe for a drink or snack. Continuing from Killarney, there are three waterfalls to admire: Browns Falls, Daggs Falls, and Queen Mary Falls. Continue through the rainforest to Carr’s Lookout, overlooking the head of the mighty Condamine River. For off-road driving, extend the adventure along Condamine River Road through the Condamine River Gorge. This road is suitable for 4×4 vehicles, featuring 14 water crossings with stunning views of the towering gorge faces as you drive.

This road trip from Brisbane showcases Condamine Gorge and Queen Mary Falls…

Day 7: Return to Brisbane.

Should you have more time to travel and explore unique locations, extend this road trip through NSW: Best Stops on the Pacific Highway or Best Road trips from Sydney .

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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 ! 

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

BEST OF QUEENSLAND

20 things to do in rockhampton, 20 things to do in hamilton island, 20 day trips from brisbane.

Mount Nebo/Mount Glorious

Mount tamborine, mount coot-tha, wynnum/manly.

While not as spectacular of a drive as the others on this list, the beachfront at Wynnum/Manly is a great spot to relax with family and friends. You can walk or ride along the entire waterfront, taking in fantastic views of the bay. The area is also known for its amazing fish and chip cafes so make sure you get a belly full before leaving this fantastic destination.

Make sure you are road trip ready with Roadside Assistance.

More articles

Related topics, things to note.

The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.

Girl Eat World

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

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

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

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

Queensland Road Trip Overview

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

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

Weather in Queensland

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

Cash Management in Australia

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

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

General Tips for driving in Australia

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

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

10-day Queensland Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Gold Coast (3 Days)

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

2. Brisbane (2 day)

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

3. Sunshine Coast Hinterland (2 Days)

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

4. Noosa (1 Day)

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

5. Fraser Island (Day trip)

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

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

• May 12, 2024

Loved the detailed breakdown of your 10-day road trip itinerary in Queensland! I’m actually planning a similar trip and your tips on where to stay and what to eat were super helpful. Can’t wait to try out some of the cafes and beaches you mentioned, thanks for sharing!

• 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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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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20 Best QLD Road Trips To Take In 2022

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

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

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

Why visit Queensland?

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

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

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

The top 20 Queensland road trips 

1. great tropical drive .

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

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

2. Gillies Highway

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

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

3. Brisbane to Noosa 

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

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

4. Brisbane to Rainforest Way 

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

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

5. Nerang to Aratula 

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

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

6. Brisbane to Sunshine Coast 

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

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

7. Brisbane to Gold Coast 

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

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

8. Cairns to Port Douglas 

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

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

9. Cairns to Matilda Way 

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

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

10. Great Green Way: Townsville to Cairns 

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

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

11. Cairns to Cape Tribulation 

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

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

12. Cairns to Whitsundays 

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

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

13. Brisbane to Glass House Mountains 

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

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

14. Brisbane to Sapphire Gremfields 

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

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

15. Brisbane to Wooroonooran National Park 

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

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

16. Cairns to Kirrama Range Road

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

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

17. Brisbane to Cairns 

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

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

18. Pacific Coast Way: Airlie Beach to Gold Coast 

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

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

19. Brisbane to Byron Bay 

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

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

20. Cairns to Longreach 

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

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

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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.

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“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 places to stay 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!

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

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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 !

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Top 10 road trips in queensland.

Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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Queensland is brimming with beauty in every direction. Why not jump in the car and start exploring? Here’s the best Queensland road trips.

The Sunshine State makes up a mighty large portion of Aus. Many of us stick to the sun and sand tucked into that southeast corner, but there are adventures in every direction across Queensland. Especially if you have the right kind of vehicle to get you around.

Here are our favourite Queensland road trips, with plenty of them launching straight out of Brisbane .

Explore all Brisbane adventures

Jump to section, queensland road trips leaving from brisbane, 1. pacific coast way.

Distance: 1771km Start point: Brisbane End point: Cairns Highlights: Whale watching at Harvey Bay, Capricorn Caves, Great Barrier Reef and islands

Photo thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland

Possibly the most iconic drive in Queensland, the Pacific Coast Way starts down in southeast Queensland (Gold Coast, Brissie – start wherever you like!) and follows the sun-soaked coastline all the way up to Cairns. 

Meander up to the stunning Sunshine Coast, take a mandatory stop at Harvey Bay to spot the migrating whales and stop in at Bundaberg, the home of Aussie’s favourite rum (and ginger beer).  Around Rockhampton you’ll find the spectacular Capricorn Caves and Yeppoon will welcome you to the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef , with Airlie Beach, Townsville and Cairns helping to get you out to the reef and islands. 

Don’t forget to explore a little inland as well on your drive home. Canefields, canyons and country Queensland await. 

How To Get There

2. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Distance: 140km Start point: Brisbane End point: Montville Highlights: Sister towns of Maleny and Montville, views of Glass House Mountains

@hereisnowherenear

This Queensland road trip is the perfect weekend escape route from Brisbane. 

Forget the highway, take the inland road to Mount Mee and enjoy the peace and quiet of the backroads. From Dahmongah Lookout you can see across to the Glass House Mountains . Check out the village of Woodford for a peak at the area’s history (and the site of the famous Woodford Folk Festival). 

A little further up the forested road you’ll find Maleny, full of all things dairy and wine, with its sister town, Montville, being the perfect place to purchase yourself a special treat. Baroon Pocket Dam is found between the two towns, and is perfect for a kayak or a picnic with all those goodies you just bought.

3. Adventure Way

Distance: 1475km Start point: Brisbane End point: Innamincka Highlights: Country pubs, outback history, Bunya Mountains, dirt roads!

This Queensland road trip follows the route of Cobb and Co coaches which used to carry people and mail to the Aussie goldfields and outback during the 19th century. In fact, the last 150km of this trip is still along an unsealed road! 

Kicking off in Brissie and heading due west, you’ll pass through Ipswich and Toowoomba, before veering north and landing by the beauty of the Bunya Mountains .

From here on out, it’s all country baby. Take a stroll along the banks of the Balonne River in St George and watch the dirt turn red as you head to the townships of Bollon and Cunnamulla.

Treat yourself to a mud bath in Eulo and detour to Yowah for all things opal. Make sure to share a schooey at Noccundra Hotel before making the final push over the SA border to Innamincka.

4. Warrego Way

Distance: 1606km Start point: Brisbane End point: Birdsville Highlights: Old country pubs, red sand dunes, cattle country

Heading off in the same direction as the Adventure Way, it’s at Dalby that these two roadies part ways, with Warrego Way heading north-west and hitting a bunch of new territory on the way. 

Once you’ve passed Dalby, head towards Chinchilla and onto Miles, which bursts with wildflowers. All roads (well this one at least) leads to Roma, the gateway to Queensland’s cattle country. Relax in the Great Artesian Spa at Mitchell and visit the character-filled Morven. 

Hit the ghost towns of Cooladdi and Betoota (yes the very same) before kicking along to your final destination. Birdsville is the hub for travellers about to cross the Simpson Desert . Be sure to pay your respects to ‘Big Red’ the 40 metre high sand dune the town is famous for.

Nearby Accommodation

Reflections Massy Greene

Reflections Lennox Head

Reflections Byron Bay

Reflections Evans Head

Jean – Unyoked

Dante – Unyoked

Juberra – Wander

The Bus – Airbnb

Eh Frame – Airbnb

Crystal Creek Ranch – Hipcamp

Bushywood at Woodfordskilake – Hipcamp

Misty Mountain Campground – Hipcamp

Sleepy hollow manor – hipcamp.

Mulga – Unyoked

Crumpet – Wander

Rummery Park Campground – Whian Whian State Conservation Area

Hill Creek Tiny House – Tiny Away

Tiny Heidi – Into The Wild Escapes

5. 75 mile beach.

Distance: 291km (plus ferry) Start point: Maroochydore End point: Fraser Island Highlights: 75 Mile Beach, Lake McKenzie, Maheno Shipwreck, rainforest

scottypass.com

This Queensland road trip takes you from the suburbs to the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island . Beginning in Maroochydore (or Brissie if that’s easier for you) drive along the coast, passing gorgeous tropical beaches on your way to Noosa.

Keep on up the coast until you reach Rainbow Beach , gateway to Fraser Island. Make sure to prepare your car (and yourself) here before driving onto the ferry to cross the channel. 

Once you’re on Fraser Island, depending on the tide, you can rip straight up the sand or take the inland road. Either way, inland lakes, sand dunes and luscious rainforest await you. You’ve truly reached paradise.

More Queensland Road Trips

6. savannah way.

Distance: 1284km Start point: Cairns End point: Adels Grove Highlights: The tropics of Cairns, Gulf of Carpentaria, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

@wild.explorer

The Savannah Way spans across the top of Aus from west coast to east. For the Queensland portion of the drive, start in Cairns and wind your way up and over the Kuranda Range and onto the Atherton Tablelands. Queensland gold comes in cane, mango and macadamias here. 

Take a tour of Undara National Park’s lava tube system (the longest in the world) and witness the 30m high undulating walls of Cobbold Gorge. Hit the historic gold rush town of Croydon and don’t miss the sunset at Karumba, over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Wetlands, wildlife and saltwater crocs abound. 

This trip saves the best till last, with the glorious swimming holes, waterfalls and red cliffs of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and Adels Grove awaiting you at the end.

7. Great Barrier Reef Drive

Distance: 152km Start point: Cairns End point: Cape Tribulation Highlights: Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef – do you need more?

The short but oh so impressive Great Barrier Reef Drive winds you along the tropical north Queensland coast with ancient reefs and rainforests by your side. 

Departing from Cairns and jetting north, you’ll pass by stunning beach after stunning beach, with rainforest trimmed mountains on one side and world famous reef on the other. Reaching Port Douglas, the heart of the Great Barrier Reef , you’d be silly not to take an oceanic detour. 

Just a touch further north, Mossman Gorge is the gateway to the Daintree Rainforest and its endearing Indigenous culture. Cape Tribulation, your final destination, is the point where the reef literally meets the sea and two World Heritage areas collide. You’ve got to see it for yourself. 

8. Matilda Way

Distance: 1700km Start point: Cunnamulla End point: Karumba Highlights: Historic outback towns, home of Waltzing Matilda, outback pubs, Gulf of Carpentaria

This road trip rips straight up the guts of Queensland, stretching from near the NSW border to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Beginning in Cunnamulla, look out for red dunes and wildflowers before heading onto Charleville, a historic hub and home of the bilby.

Augathella, Tambo and Ilfracombe will pass by on your way to Longreach, a modern outback centre on the Thomson River.

See dinosaur bones at Winton and visit the home of Waltzing Matilda at Combo Waterhole. The last leg follows the trail of Burke and Wills as they made their way to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Stop in at Normanton for a feed at the Purple Pub before cruising onto the barramundi capital of Aus, Karumba sitting pretty on the edge of the Gulf.

9. Overlander’s Way

Distance: 1183km Start point: Townsville End point: Camooweal Highlights: Great Barrier Reef, Dinosaur Country, Mount Isa

This drive captures all the diversity of Queensland, from the Great Barrier Reef to the dusty, red outback. Kick off in tropical Townsville with a mandatory visit to the reef before wandering west past heritage and gold mining towns. 

Next you’ll find yourself in dinosaur country where thousands of fossils have been found, and Hughenden at the beating centre of the beast.  

Catch a sunset at Julia Creek and explore museums in Cloncurry, before arriving at Mount Isa, the ‘oasis of the outback’ with its mix of history, nature, culture and industry. Your final stop is Camooweal, right by the NT border where you can explore the local caves and Drovers Camp Museum.

10. Cairns to Cape York

Distance: 1381km Start point: Cairns End point: Cape York Highlights: Reef and rainforest, Old Telegraph Track, standing at the northernmost point of Aus

This almighty mission takes you from the reef up the coastline to the tippity top of Australia. You’ll need a 4WD for this one. 

Starting in Cairns where a visit to the reef is a must, meander up the coastline through the Daintree Rainforest to Port Douglas and onto Cooktown for a lesson in colonial history. Over creeks and across sandy beaches to reach Cape Melville before reaching the Peninsula Development Road, which is being sealed periodically. 

Stay a night in Coen before ambling over rivers to reach Bramwell Station, (make sure to fill up here!). If you’re daring enough, tackle the infamously difficult Old Telegraph Track , the final frontier before The Tip. Don’t forget to take your pic with that iconic sign once you reach Cape York!

Queensland Roadtrip FAQs

How do i prepare for a roadtrip.

Before leaving on a roadtrip, make sure you have regular access to food, fuel and water. if you’re going to be remote, make sure you take more than enough supplies, just in case you’re out for longer than expected. Before leaving, take your care to get checked out by a mechanic and ensure all your essential appliances (solar panels, car fridges etc) are working properly.

What should I avoid on a roadtrip?

On a roadtrip, especially when going to remote places, you should avoid taking unnecessary risks.

How far per day should I travel?

How far you travel each day is really up to you. Generally a multi-day roadtrip daily kilometres can be anywhere from 50- 300km a day. Factor in rest stops and time to check out local attractions.

Feature photo thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland

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10 Easy Trips You Can Take These Winter School Holidays

By Victoria Patapan

25th Jun 2024

Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for your nearest and dearest? Personalised Plates are the ultimate milestone pressie that’s guaranteed to make their day. Click here to create theirs.

Things can get a little dreary when the weekend rolls ‘round and your only plans involve a trip to Woolies and smashing out yet another season of your fave show on Netflix. Or worse still, those weekends where you’re so busy you barely have time to breathe, let alone recover from the work week. Whether you’re tired of being all booked up or just bored out of your brain, there’s one simple and easy fix: a weekend away. You don’t have to stress about taking time off, organising flights or travel insurance—all you have to do is get in the car and drive. The only question is, where to? Here are our top picks for 10 overnight trips you can take, all within driving distance of Brisbane.   

Lamington National Park 

You can’t go wrong exploring a park that shares its name with a delicious Aussie treat. A long time favourite of adventurers, Lamington National Park deep gorges and distinctive peaks act as a sanctuary for all kinds of Aussie wildlife. Home to over 500 world-class waterfalls accessible via 160-kilometres of nature trails, there’s no shortage of things to do, but the hike to Elabana Falls should be at the top of your list. Okay, scratch that—the Canungra Alpaca Farm should be at the top of your list, but the waterfall walk is a close second. Enjoy some bonding time with Pancake and Tim Tam on an alpaca picnic, before heading back to bliss out in your stunning eco escape. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat’s architecturally designed villas are surrounded by 20,000 hectares of subtropical rainforest to give you a truly immersive experience that allows you to reconnect with the natural world. The retreat also offers plenty of activities, including Segway tours and day spa treatments—‘cause it’s not a holiday unless you’re being pampered. 

Noosa 

No trip up north is complete without stopping in at the thriving coastal community that is Noosa. With an iconic shopping precinct, world-renowned beaches and shimmering lakes, there’s nothing this town can’t do. Update your wardrobe with a shop along Hastings Street, and while you’re there, choose one of the best cafes in Noosa to brunch at. Once you’ve filled up, hit the beach—breakfast baby demand. If you’re feeling energetic, you might want to tackle the next-level hike from Noosa Heads to Alexandria Bay, then you’ll be all tuckered out and ready for a brew at Copperhead Brewery . With restaurant-quality fare at pub prices and a rockin’ beers list to boot, by the end of the night, you’ll be in no condition to drive home. Fall asleep to the gently lapping waters of Lake Weyba with a contemporary lake house courtesy of Eumarella Shores . 

Mount Tamborine

Nestled between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine is one of Queensland’s greatest treasures. It’s convenient location makes it ideal for a weekend away, and the region’s natural beauty gives visitors the chance to relax and rejuvenate. The Curtis Falls track winds past burbling creeks and giant strangler figs on the lead up to the waterfall, gushing with the flow of recent rain. Better still, Mount Tamborine is home to an award-winning winery that offers tastings for just $10 per person. Pair that with a pot of quince paste and triple cream brie from Witches Chase Cheese , and you’ve got a party on your hands. Save the drive home for tomorrow by booking a room at Songbirds Rainforest Retreat, which comprises six spacious villas spread out over 51 acres of stunning Australian rainforest. Trust us—you won’t want to leave. 

Sunshine Coast Hinterland

If the weekly (let’s be real, daily) news reports about traffic on the Bruce Highway are anything to go by, it’s pretty clear that us city slickers love to head up the coast any chance we get. And it’s no surprise why—with lush mountain ranges, spectacular waterfalls and award-winning breweries, the Sunshine Coast really does have it all. But if we had to narrow it down to just one weekend, there’s no way we’d miss out on a trip to Gardners Falls. It’s the perfect place to take a dip, or soak up some sun as you dry off on the rocks. And while we’re there, we might as well stock up on all-things-dairy at the Maleny Cheese Factory . Next up, stop in at Brouhaha Brewery for a taste of their award-winning Strawberry Rhubarb Sour. Let afternoon drinks drag into dinner, so you have an excuse to try their smoked porter and Maleny wagyu pie. Spoil yourself even further with a night at Spicers Tamarind or the French-inspired Clovelly Estate . You can thank us later. 

Stanthorpe 

Stanthorpe may not sound like your next must-see holiday destination, but trust us—this glorious slice of country paradise has got the goods. Part of Queensland’s Granite Belt region, Stanthorpe is teeming with cult-worthy wineries, farm-to-table dining and good ol’ country charm. You’ll know it was worth the three-hour drive when you pull up at your glamping tent at Allure Stanthorpe —it’s more luxe than any hotel. Once you’ve settled into your new lodgings, fill up on fine modern Australian fare at Essen Restaurant . Their locally-sourced produce puts the best of the Granite Belt on your plate. Exploring Girraween National Park’s boulder strewn trails are a must, but  save some time for a Southern Downs wine tour —or just pick a few of the several dozen nearby wineries to hit on your own. Sounds like our kind of holiday!

Moreton Island 

Just over an hour’s ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is a nature lover’s paradise. Home to the Tangalooma Island Resort, the island caters to all types of holiday-makers, whether you’re looking for adventure or just a relaxing weekend away. Snorkel with colourful coral and glittering fish as you explore the Tangalooma Wrecks , or witness the wonders of nocturnal sea life with a night kayaking tour . In terms of food, the resort offers a range of dining experiences, from a laid-back beach cafe to traditional spicy sichuan Chinese cuisine. The rooms themselves are modern and affordable, but if you’re looking for luxe, you’ll want to check out their beachfront villas . Plus, staying in the villas comes with the chance to feed wild dolphins. Worth. Every. Penny.  

Stradbroke Island 

A longtime local fave, a weekend trip to Straddie is practically a rite of passage in southeast Queensland. The sun, sand and surf come together to create our very own slice of paradise, complete with nature walks, pristine freshwater lakes, and an iconic gelati shop . Getting around the island is a breeze thanks to the local bus services, but if you want to explore on your own terms, bring the car over by booking a ticket for the barge. Bring back memories of long-forgotten camping trips with Dad by setting up a tent at the Cylinder Beach campgrounds , or glamp it up a notch by staying in one of Adder Rock’s eco tents . Once you’re all set up, get a feel for the island with the North Gorge walk—and keep an eye out for dolphins and whales on the way. You’ll no doubt work up an appetite, which means you’ll have the perfect excuse to head to Fins ‘n’ Fries , and chow down on fresh seafood as you watch the waves roll in. 

Rainbow Beach 

All too often overshadowed by its famous neighbours, Rainbow Beach is worth ticking off your bucket list. This hidden gem has managed to maintain its quaint, quiet charm, while simultaneously offering breathtaking views and beginner-friendly surf breaks. Stroll along the massive batch of sand that is the Carlo Sand Blow, before making some fishy friends with a dive tour at Wolf Rock—an official marine sanctuary for critically endangered Grey Nurse sharks Don’t worry, they won’t bite , but when you’re ready to, we recommend dinner at Arcobaleno . This beachside abode is tucked away off Rainbow Beach’s main strip and specialises in wood-fired pizza, but their homemade sweet potato gnocchi is a strong second. Wash it all down with a bevvy from the Rainbow Beach Hotel , before hitting the hay at Plantation Resort for some seriously luxe vibes.  

Scenic Rim 

You’ve no doubt spent plenty of weekends in Burleigh, but just a bit further inland sits the thriving rural paradise that is the Scenic Rim. If you’re a fan of good food (and good wine), this is the trip for you. Start your weekend with a trip to the Kooroomba Lavender Farm and take in endless fields of fragrant purple flowers stretching into the distance. Pair a bite of their lavender scones with a sip of their lavender cocktails, and take a candle for the road. Next up is the chance to get your heart pumping, with a hike to the Mount Barney Lower Portals—you can even take a dip if you’re game. After that, cool off (or warm up) with a visit to 1985 Overflow Estate Winery . The winery sits on the shores of the stunning Lake Wyaralong, giving guests incredible views out over the water as they pamper themselves with the taste of premium wine and platters of cheese. After you’ve undoubtedly had one too many, it’s time to call it a night—get your designated driver to head back to your accom at Ketchup’s Bank Glamping . One night in these luxury tents and you’ll never camp again.  

Toowoomba 

Known for its crisp country air and that iconic flower carnival, just one trip to Toowoomba is all it needs to win you over. Start your getaway by carb-loading on pastries at The Baker’s Duck . Seriously—this place is worth the trip all on its own. The only problem is, their food is addictive, and you’ll crave it on the reg, so stock up while you can. For something a bit heavier (and healthier), head to The Finch Cafe . Their breakfast menu is available all day, so there’s no need to rush for your smashed avo. Spend the rest of your day exploring the city’s vibrant street art scene . The weird and wonderful designs are just begging for a feature on your Insta story. And when it comes time for bed, we have the perfect place in mind. Norah is a tiny house in the Toowoomba region that promises an escape from big city life. Powered by the sun and gas bottles, charging your laptop is off the cards—but it’s well worth the trade-off. 

Like your road trips with a side of cheddar? Stock up on cheese with a road trip to these country cheese makers near Brisbane. 

Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland, Witches Falls Winery

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6 Epic Road Trips in Australia for First-timers — Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland

My Australia road trip Spotify playlist may or may not unironically include ‘Nutbush City Limits’ 🚗💨

For those planning your very first road trip overseas, Australia is a great place to start. Vast landscapes, stunning nature and wildlife attractions — there are plenty of new destinations to explore across the country, especially when you have a car.

It’s easier to start your journey from accessible cities like Sydney , Melbourne , Gold Coast or Perth , so we’ll be covering six epic road trip itineraries across the states of Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland!

But before you set off on your road trip, make sure to rent your car online in advance — especially during high season. We usually rent ours via Klook and can conveniently choose our pick-up location and car model.

*Pro-tip: Use < THETRAVELINTERN > on Klook to get 5% off car rental and activities with a S$50 min. spend (discount cap at S$15) at checkout ( list of excluded activities ).

1) 7D New South Wales to Victoria Coastal Drive (Sydney to Melbourne)

Route: Sydney — Wollongong — Jervis Bay — Eden — Phillip Island — Melbourne Highlights: Tandem Skydiving, Whale Watching, Ocean to Plate Experience, Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade

The Coastal Drive from Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) is one of the most iconic road trips to take in Australia. Connecting the two most popular Australian cities, this route is a great break between the bustle of either city.

The first half of the route follows New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive , which stretches along the coast south of Sydney . While 140km long, the coastal drive is beginner-friendly thanks to straight roads and stops along the way for sightseeing. Think stunning sea views, laid-back beach towns and many wildlife sighting opportunities!

On your way out of Sydney, stop by the Royal National Park . It’s just an hour’s drive from the city and you can spend the day hiking through epic cliffside trails. Some famous viewpoints to check out are Wedding Cake Rock , Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls !

Then, head down to Wollongong for a bucket list Australian experience — skydiving ! Freefalling over the beach might be the best way to get the heart pumping and blood flowing. Circulation helps prevent cramping while driving after all 🤭

Get your first glimpse of wildlife at Jervis Bay on a whale-watching cruise . Tours run every May to November and you’ll be able to see migrating humpback whales leaping out of the water. If you’re visiting in the Summer (December to February), spend the night in Jervis Bay and you might see the glowing bioluminescence at Barfluer Beach, Callala Bay and Blenheim Beach . ✨

Can you spot the abalone on the rocks?

We all know Australia is home to some of the best seafood, but did you know you can go foraging for it in Eden ? Teeming with marine life, here’s where you can try the Ocean to Plate experience and go snorkelling for mussels and abalone. The most rewarding part is getting to enjoy your fresh hand-picked spread after 🤤

Photo credit: Phillip Island Nature Parks

Cross over to the state of Victoria to reach your last stop — Phillip Island ! Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve and the Nobbies during the day to learn more about the animals on the island. The main highlight comes at dusk, when hundreds of little penguins waddle home from the sea in the cutest Penguin Parade .

Read more: Sydney South Coast Road Trip — 7 Day Itinerary From Sydney to Eden

2) 4D Great Ocean Road and Grampians (Melbourne)

Route: Melbourne — Great Otway National Park — Great Ocean Road — Grampians National Park — Melbourne Highlights: Otway Fly Treetop Adventure Park, Twelve Apostles, The Grotto, MacKenzie Falls, The Balconies

Scenic ocean drives, towering alpine forests and nature hikes — this picturesque road trip is great for first-timers starting from Melbourne! The roads are mostly straight and easy to navigate as well.

The first stop is at Great Otway National Park for Otway Fly Treetop Adventure Park , where you’ll amble high above the trees in an adrenaline-pumping high elements course and zipline. For those who prefer a calmer activity, you can still get a bird’s eye view of the forest on the Otway Fly Treetop Walk .

The park is also home to unique sights like The Redwoods where you can spend the entire day walking among giant California Redwood sequoia trees. There are picnic tables outside the forest too so this is a good pit stop for lunch.

No trip to Melbourne is complete without passing through the famous Great Ocean Road . So roll down the windows and start the next day driving onto the Great Ocean Road towards Port Campbell. This area is home to many limestone marvels formed over centuries of erosion, the most well-known being the 12 Apostles .

Other stops to add to your road trip itinerary include The Bakers Oven , Sunset Lookout , London Bridge , and The Grotto ! These are all a 5 to 10-minute drive from each other and located near the beachside town of Port Campbell (with restaurants, cafes and hotels if you wish to spend the night).

Spend the next two days exploring Grampians National Park . This park is a paradise for outdoor lovers thanks to its world-class hikes, such as a 1km walk to MacKenzie Falls . (Not to be mistaken for the Disney Channel show. This is one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria!)

Two other hikes to add to your list are the Pinnacle Lookout , one of the park’s highest peaks through canyons, and the Jaws of Death (aka The Balconies ). It leads to a rock formation that hangs over the valley which resembles a T-Rex — hence the name.

Read more: 8D Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary — The Ultimate Road Trip Around Victoria’s Best Adventures

3) 3D Gold Coast’s Hinterland (Gold Coast)

Route: Gold Coast — Warner Bros. Movie World — Tamborine Mountain — Tamborine National Park — Canungra — Gold Coast Highlights: Warner Bros. Movie World, Tamborine National Park, Witches Falls Winery, Mountview Alpaca Farm

People often flock to the Gold Coast for its laid-back beach city — it’s known to be a surfer’s paradise after all 🏄 But the Gold Coast has more than just coastal charm. Its underrated Hinterland is a wine region with awesome nature parks away from the tourist crowds. This was also where we tried camper-vanning in Australia for the first time !

Regardless of your choice of vehicle, kick off this Australia road trip with a bang at Warner Bros. Movie World . Perfect for DC fans, adrenaline junkies and families, this theme park is packed with rollercoasters and character greetings!

Bid farewell to the city and drive up to Tamborine Mountain for a mystery picnic ! It’s a treasure hunt where you have to solve clues and puzzles that will lead you to food vendors for your dinner supplies — the final stop being the picnic location. After watching the sunset, check out the glow worm caves the mountain is famous for.

Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

Start the next morning among nature by going on a trail at Tamborine National Park . Take the Witches Chase Track to Witches Falls Circuit and pass by various scenic lookout points over Witches Falls .

After hiking, relax over a glass (or several) of wine at the nearby Witches Falls Winery 🍷 They also have a non-alcoholic tasting menu available — designated drivers rejoice!

The last stop before heading back to the Gold Coast is Canungra , where you can cosy up with alpacas at Mountview Alpaca Farm 🦙 There are over 80 alpacas on the farm and you can opt for the Alpaca Experience to roam around the property with your very own alpaca!

Read more: 8-Day Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary — First-Timers’ Camper Van Guide for S$1.6k

4) 8D Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route (Gold Coast to Sydney)

Route: Gold Coast — Byron Bay — Port Macquarie — Port Stephens — Blue Mountains — Sydney Highlights: Kayaking with dolphins, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Star gazing in the Blue Mountains

The Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route from Sydney to the Gold Coast (or vice versa) is another iconic cross-territory Australia road trip. This 900km-long stretch presents many opportunities to break up the distance and tick off bucket list experiences along the way.

After a 1.5-hour drive from the Gold Coast, you’ll arrive at the gorgeous seaside town of Byron Bay . Here, you can kayak alongside curious dolphins and even spot sea turtles if you’re lucky. Or go for a surf lesso n at Main Beach Byron Bay with a stunning mountain backdrop.

If you prefer to stay dry, ‘fly’ through the air by skydiving over the turquoise waters! Finally, you mustn’t leave Byron Bay without catching the first sunrise in Australia from Cape Byron Lighthouse — the easternmost point of mainland Australia.

There are so many things to do in Byron Bay , so we recommend spending a couple of days here to fully enjoy it!

Photo credit: Destination NSW

Continue south to Port Macquarie , another charming town with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Stretch your legs by taking on the 9km Port Macquarie Coastal Walk which covers Town Beach , Flynns Beach , and Shelly Beach .

Next, head to Port Stephens where you can try a different kind of surfing — sandboarding ! Channel your inner Aladdin and learn how to sandboard at the Stockton Sand Dune s ! Stay awhile to catch the sunset at Stockton Beach and you just might see a row of camels trotting by.

Before pulling into Sydney, make a detour and spend a few days in the Blue Mountains — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic scenery and picture-postcard shot of the Three Sisters .

Get tickets to Scenic World , which will help you get around the park with access to the Scenic Skyway, Walkway, Cableway, and Railway. The Scenic Railway is the steepest railway track in the world (angled at 52°) and the ride is an attraction in itself — hold on tight!

Another way to explore the area is via the Grand Canyon Walking Track . We recommend going in the morning before the tourist crowds come in. The national park being far from the city also means the nights here get dark enough to go sta r gazing with an astronomer, where you can chart constellations or try astrophotography!

If you have the driving stamina and time to spare, consider extending this road trip to two weeks to stop by Newcastle, Urunga and Coffs Harbour as well.

Read more: 2-Week Australia Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay — Discovering NSW’s Legendary Pacific Coast

5) 9D Coral Coast Drive (Perth to Exmouth)

Route: Perth — Cervantes — Jurien Bay — Kalbarri — Monkey Mia — Ningaloo — Exmouth Highlights: The Pinnacles Desert, Hutt Lagoon’s Pink Lake, Kalbarri National Park, Ningaloo Reef

The Coral Coast Drive is one of the most underrated yet fulfilling road trips in Australia. Not only do the many marine wildlife encounters and unique landscapes make it exciting, but the best part is fewer tourists!

From Perth , drive up to Cervantes to explore Western Australia’s most popular attraction — the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park . Catch the epic sunset against the unique limestone formations and stay the night for stargazing. Then, stop by Jurien Bay to enjoy pristine beaches and spot playful sea lions.

On the way to Kalbarri , drop by Hutt Lagoon’s famous pink lake. It’s one of the most unique lakes in the world due to a certain type of algae that produces its “ hi Barbie! ” hue.

From there, head to Kalbarri National Park and spend a couple of days hiking through the park’s rugged gorges and coastal cliffs. Hike to iconic lookout points like Nature’s Window and Z Bend for crazy IG-worthy photos.

Move on to Monkey Mia to encounter the friendly wild bottlenose dolphins that have been visiting the shores daily since the 1960s. The first feeding starts around 7:45AM and if you’re in luck, you might even get selected to feed them!

Fun fact: Ningaloo Reef is a World Heritage-listed site due to its incredible marine diversity. And it’s also one of the only places in the world where whale sharks consistently gather!

Explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant wildlife from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat in Coral Bay . Or, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head a little further up north to Exmouth where you can swim with whale sharks (March – August) and spot other colourful fishes in Ningaloo Reef 🐠

Read more: 11D Western Australia Itinerary — Coastal Road Trip From Perth To Ningaloo

6) 5D Great Southern Drive (Perth)

Route: Perth — Margaret River — Denmark — Albany — Mount Barker — Perth Highlights: Leeuwin Estate Winery Tour, Mammoth Cave, Greens Pool, Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, Torndirrup National Park

Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia, Klook

Perth is known as one of the most laid-back cities in Australia and the Great Southern Drive reflects that chillness . This route takes a slower pace and is more indulgent — hello vineyards, gourmet meals and scenic drives!

Photo credit: Klook

Begin your Great Southern Drive adventure by setting off to the Margaret River region, famous for its distilleries, wineries and fresh local produce. Explore the vineyards and go on experiences like the Passel Estate Wine & Food Tasting — soaking in the slower pace and finer life in Western Australia.

Before you leave Margaret River, visit Mammoth Cave to see ancient fossils which are over 50,000 years old — it’s nature’s time capsule!

Photo credit: Tourism Western Australia

Next, head southeast to Denmark — no, we don’t mean the country. It’s a charming small town known for its breathtaking landscapes. Take a dip in the pristine Greens Pool , before venturing into the forests of the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk to get sick views from above the tingle trees.

Head to Albany to check out the National Anzac Centre and learn about the region’s whaling history — a practice that stopped in 1978 and only stories of those workers and whales remain. Albany is also home to Torndirrup National Park , where you can find dramatic coastal formations like The Gap and Natural Bridge .

The last stop is Mount Barker , located in the heart of the Great Southern wine region. If you’ve ever had the dream of waking up in a quaint cottage, this is the perfect place to do so. Sample more local wines in the picturesque countryside before looping back to Perth.

*Pro-tip: For designated drivers, buy a bottle to go and enjoy it from the safety of your accommodation!

Tips for your first Australia road trip

Tackling your first overseas road trip may be daunting but don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you out!

1) Download the Waze app to navigate

Most of us may be more familiar with Google Maps but here’s why Waze is better. It has live alerts of road hazards, police stops or traffic blocks on the road (reported regularly by its users). The app will then adjust your route accordingly and make your journey a lot smoother!

*Pro-tip: Download offline maps as there may be no service in remote areas like national parks.

2) Watch out for wildlife on the roads

In Australia, you’d have to really keep your eyes peeled for wildlife when driving. Try to avoid driving at night as that’s when these animals are more active and might suddenly dash across the road. It’s too dangerous to stop the car, especially if there are cars behind you — which is why roadkill is common 🥲

If you come across any injured wildlife on the road, contact Wildlife Rescue Australia’s 24-hour call centre at +61 1300 596 457.

3) Pre-book essentials before your trip

Before travelling, have a peace of mind by booking your car rental and activities via Klook ! It’ll help secure your vehicle in advance and conveniently lets you choose your pick-up point too. Plus, it’ll save you the hassle of physically queuing to buy tickets and avoid the disappointment of sold-out tours on the day itself 😉

What is your dream Australia road trip? Let us know in the comments!

This post was brought to you by  Tourism Australia and Klook .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

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9 Best Road Trips to Take in South Carolina

The state of South Carolina , known by some as the Palmetto State, is also known for having some of the most scenic road trips in all of America . From Edisto Island National Scenic Byway and its majestic Live Oak canopies to the coastal trip from Myrtle Beach to Georgetown, many attributes along these picturesque drives appeal to that sense of adventure hiding within even the most critical traveler. Though there might be as nearly as many road trips on the eastern seaboard as there are beaches along the southern California coast, here are nine of the best road trips to take if you find yourself in South Carolina .

The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway Road Trip

Beginning at Dawhoo River Bridge, the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway has a plethora of nature and history crammed into just seventeen miles of two-lane road. The Russell Creek Overlook, just a mile or so into the trip, offers stunning views of the Windsor Plantation house, first constructed in 1857. About halfway through the journey, enjoy cruising beneath a Spanish Moss-enveloped Live Oak canopy, this one at least two hundred years old. There are many other attractions along the way before you reach the Atlantic Ocean , like checking out Bailey’s Store, built in the 1880s. At the journey’s end, Edisto Beach State Park awaits, with opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and even camping.

The Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway Road Trip

Just over a hundred miles in length, this scenic road trip along SR 11 is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while also experiencing some of the culture and heritage incorporated into the upper half of South Carolina. Starting in the town of Gaffney and traveling west and then south, this passage through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range is a wonder to behold for all ages. Some of the more popular stops along the way are Cambell’s Covered Bridge in Landrum, built in 1909, Poinsett Bridge at Travelers Rest, built in 1820, and Table Rock State Park, located in Pickens. At the end of the journey in the town of Fair Play, remember to stop by Lake Hartwell and Oconee State Park for some great family fun.

The Charleston to Hilton Head Island Road Trip

This road trip of a hundred miles is an excellent way to enjoy a scenic drive from one of the most populated cities in South Carolina to one of the most popular attractions along the coast. Starting with some amenities just south of Charleston , the quaint town of Hollywood is known for the Ernest Hollings Ace Basin National Wildlife Refuge and Old Wide Awake Plantation, which showcases several relics from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Further down the road, Bluffton is perhaps most famous for the Church of the Cross, built in the 1850s and one of only a few buildings to survive a fire that burned most of Bluffton in 1863. Once on Hilton Head Island, various attractions await, including whale-watching tours, Coligny Beach, and Hilton Head Plantation, home to the Dolphin Head Recreation Area.

The Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway Road Trip

Only fifteen miles in length, the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway is an excellent single-day road trip to plan with friends or even family members. While driving through the Nantahala National Forest, several waterfalls and scenic overlooks can be spotted right from the road, as well as a plethora of hiking trails just off the road, with easy pull-off spots. A more popular attraction to this particular road trip is a breathtaking view of Upper Whitewater Falls, which actually sits across the border in North Carolina. Other attributes of this drive are the Oconee State Park, where there are options for fishing, hiking, picnicking, and camping, and Moody Springs, one of the more famous natural springs in all of South Carolina.

The Savannah River Scenic Byway Road Trip

The Savannah River Scenic Byway is another ideal road trip that is worth the time spent. After leaving the town of Clarks Hill, there are several attractions, natural as well as historical, that await on this picturesque drive north to Westminster. The quaint town of Parksville is home to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, which is great for stretching the legs. Further north, McCormick offers a scenic walk along the Savannah Valley Railroad Trail, while its neighboring town, Lincolnton, is home to the Elijah Clark State Park. Then, stop by Lake Hartwell and enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, boating, and bird-watching. Finally, after traveling in and out of Sumter National Forest for about a hundred miles, grab something to eat at Yousef’s Kitchen, located in downtown Westminster, where they serve a tasty buffet.

The Kings Mountain National Military Park Road Trip

Chocked full of historical, natural, and cultural attractions, this road trip begins in Blacksburg, a few miles outside Kings Mountain National Military Park. Traveling southwest toward Gaffney on SR-29, several attractions, including Cowpens National Battlefield and Cherokee County History & Arts Museum, are well worth checking out along the way. Further along the trip, in Cowpens , stop for lunch and taste some of the local fare at Crawford’s Barnyard Restaurant. Down the road, Greenville awaits a famous suspension bridge called Liberty Bridge. At the end of the drive, after checking out the peaceful ambiance of Centerville, grab a well-earned dinner with the family at the Texas Roadhouse or the Chicken Basket in nearby Anderson.

The Lighthouses of South Carolina Road Trip

Beginning in Georgetown, the 3rd oldest city in South Carolina and home to Georgetown Light, constructed on North Island in the 19th century, this coastal drive travels down the Atlantic coast to Haig Point Rear Range, constructed on Daufuskie Island in 1872. In between these two eighty-foot-tall lighthouses, several others await the intrepid traveler. The two Cape Romain lighthouses are located six miles off the coast on the Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge and provide some breathtaking views of the Atlantic . The Morris Island Lighthouse, off the coast of Charleston, is a hundred and sixty feet tall and was built in 1876. Along with several others, Hilton Head Rear, built in the late eighteen hundreds on Hilton Head Island, still guides ships along Port Royal Sound.

The Spartanburg to Charleston Road Trip

If the interstate is better than a two-lane highway, possibly due to having an extra wide motorhome, the Spartanburg to Charleston road trip may be more to your liking. Consisting of a little over two hundred miles on I-26, this trip passes by many natural and historical attributes. After beginning in Spartanburg, home of Croft State Park, stop in Newberry and visit Wells Japanese Garden, created in 1930 by W. Fulmer Wells. Then, in Columbia, stop by Saluda Shoals Park and take a kayak out on Rawls Creek. After that, check out Orangeburg and the Chestnut Grill, serving a delicious ribeye or porterhouse. Then, after going around Summerville, pull into Charleston and relax at the Barksdale House Inn, built in 1778 and offering a tasty breakfast to guests every morning.

The Myrtle Beach to Georgetown Road Trip

While Myrtle Beach may have its own amenities, like the boardwalk and promenade, Ripley’s Aquarium, and, of course, Myrtle Beach , the scenic drive along SR 17 to Georgetown also has quite a few attributes. The Safari Lodge showcases a cheetah named King Tut, an African elephant named Bubbles, and a liger (half lion - half tiger) named Hercules. There is the MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet, with several seafood restaurants and local shops nearby, like the Inlet Crab House. Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island await further south, with Atalaya Castle and several famous golf courses. At the end of this scenic drive down the coast, check out Hopsewee Plantation and Hobcaw Barony, two Revolutionary War plantations located in Georgetown.

Whether you have an interest in natural attractions like stunning waterfalls and picturesque vistas on the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway, or crave the historical background within the battle of Kings Mountain on the Kings Mountain National Military Park road trip, South Carolina has you covered. Whether it is plantations or premier golf courses, antiquated aquariums or sunny beaches, one hundred sixty foot tall lighthouses or restaurants that serve up a tasty local fare, here are nine of the best road trips to take in South Carolina.

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36 Best Day Trips from Brisbane, Queensland

The Queensland capital has plenty of attractions within the city limits to keep you entertained, but sometimes you just need to get away. Therefore, lets start exploring my best day trips from Brisbane.

I have been a local to the area for over 20 years and know that I have spent many weekends exploring ins and outs of the south east. Trust that I’m giving you my favourite options, along with some variety so you can at least find a couple of things that interest you.

Whether you on vacation, or living here, please read on for my best ideas and start planning your next “must-do” day trip away.

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my disclaimer, T&C’s & privacy policy here .

Day Trips from Brisbane & Map?

I have generated a specially curated map here of all the options below, to help you apply directions from your location. These choices cover the Sunshine Coast, Hinterland, Scenic Rim, Byron Bay, Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. Along with the Gold Coast, UNESCO areas and my favourite National Parks.

1. Tangalooma Resort or Moreton Island

Over the years, I have spent many weekends either day tripping to Moreton Island , or staying over night in the Tangalooma Island Resort . Ferry’s will leave from Eagle Farm or near the Port, but both are a very different experience.

➡  Compare prices for Moreton Tours on HERE on Get Your Guide HERE, or find more options HERE with Viator.

The Barge leaving from the Port if your best way to see and snorkel the Wrecks and hang out on the beach for the day. Apart from that, The Eagle Farm ferry’s will go direct to the resort and you get a casual day pass for all their activities. This includes Quad Bikes, Helicopters, Segway on the beach, parasailing and the famous Dolphin Feeding.

2. Natural Bridge

In the Gold Coast Hinterland, you have several waterfalls to visit, like Natural Bridge , which also has glow worm caves. It’s a well-known waterfall as it can be viewed from above & below, and one of my favourites to visit on the Gold Coast.

➡  Compare prices for Springbrook Tours HERE on Get Your Guide, or find others HERE with Viator.

The walk around is about 1 kilometre, and circles around in a one-way loop. In the evening, you can enter the cave for viewing Glow worms for free , which is an incredible experience and one I would recommend.

3. North Stradbroke Island

Your selection will never be the same after visiting Stradbroke Island . There are so many different things to see and do, like the Point Lookout headland, Brown Lake, and plenty of gorgeous beaches to hang out on. The Island lies 30 kilometres of the coast and takes 45-minutes to get there from Cleveland.

➡  Compare prices for Stradbroke Tours on HERE with Get Your Guide.

Not only that, but with several ferries going throughout the day, it means you can get at least 8 hours fun in for the day. However, seen as it’s the second-largest sand island, consider a tour to get around or look into a scooter or public transport.

4. Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is in the UNESCO World Heritage Site (The Gondwana Rainforest), located in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Queensland, Australia. Another Free park and is home to more than 900 species of plants and animals, several waterfalls and kilometres of hiking trail.

➡  Compare prices for Lamington Tours HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

Visitors can explore the rainforest on foot via a network of walking trails or take in the views from the O’Reilly’s Treetop walk. This is a suspended bridge that winds its way through the treetops and very family friendly. 

5. Whale Watching Tours(Seasonal from July to October)

If you’re looking to going on a whale watching cruise, there are a few different departure points from which you can choose. Either Redcliffe, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, offer whale-watching tours that allow you to see these majestic creatures up close.

➡  Compare prices for Whale watching tours HERE on Get your Guide.

While on tour, you’ll also learn about the Humpback Whales that migrate through the area and experience the coast’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature admirer or just looking for a fun day out, a Whale Watching tour will give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

6. Winery Tours

Winery tours are a great way to explore the area and have someone do the driving for you. With that said, the Sunshine and Gold Coast Hinterlands are very similar and are two of the most popular destinations for winery tours.

➡  Compare prices for Wine Tasting Tours HERE with Get Your Guide, or others HERE with Viator.

Both regions offer various tour options, from half-day to full day excursions. Visitors can tour the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the region’s finest wines.

7. Adventure Theme Parks

There are several theme parks to choose from, all surrounding the Gold Coast. This includes Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World. Or if your like me, the waterparks like White Water World and Wet ‘N’ Wild are the most fun!

Your day will be full of excitement as you can see all kinds of animals, raise your heart rate with thrill rides, fill up on carnival snack foods or spend the day in the water. Not only that, but Actors are performing in and around the park for different shows, events, stunts, and tourist entertainment.

8. Purling Brook Falls

Purling Brook Falls is also available in Springbrook National Park and not far from Natural Bridge. This waterfall has a 4 kilometres loop hike on a nicely formed track. It starts at the top, walks down one side of the dense forest canyon to view the waterfall at the bottom, and walks back up the other side.

Purling Brook Falls does have a lookout at the top, so you don’t have to complete the hike to see it. Although, it is best viewed in full at the bottom.

9. Beaches on the Gold Coast

Everyone loves a Beach day right? Well, you can’t get any better than some of the variety down at the Gold Coast. Those beautiful white sandy beaches stretch all the way from Southport, through Surfers Paradise, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, and down to Tweed Heads.

Water activities are on an abundance at the Gold Coast. So, if you’re after surfing, somewhere to paddleboard, or a low ley place for the kids, then the Gold Coast has what you’re after.

10. Jet Boating experience

Jet boating is an extreme sport that is perfect for thrill seekers searching for a gripping and exciting ride. The best part about jet boating is that it is a family-friendly activity and everyone can enjoy.

➡ Compare prices for Jet Boat rides HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

It’s ideal to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Gold Coast while getting an adrenaline rush. The experience is like nothing else and is sure to be a memorable experience for everyone who tries it.

11. Q1 Building Observation Deck & Skypoint Climb

Did you know that the Q1 Building in Surfers Paradise, is one of the tallest residential building in the world. Not only that, but it has one of the fastest elevators taking you to the 77th floor in 42 seconds.

➡  Book your Skypoint Observation deck Tickets HERE

There are two experiences to mention here. First being the Observation deck with 360-degree views, behind glass and overlooking the Gold Coast. Enjoy a coffee, meet up with friends and see this tourist hub from a different perspective.

Alternatively, you have the Skypoint Climb , which is more extreme and stepping outside for a glass-free view. You’re strapped in and guided to walk around the top portion of the Q1 Building. The experience takes about 1.5 hours, including the safety briefing instructions.

12. Jet Ski adventure

There is no need to have a licence to tour the Gold Coast on a Jet Ski , and you can share the cost with a friend and double riding. For our experience, we chose a tour leaving from Main Beach harbour and made our way up to Coran Cove for Breakfast.

You do have a little freedom while on the Jet Ski, although it’s pretty much a “follow the leader” scenario when you don’t have a licence. Therefore, speeds are dependant on your confidence or limited by law through the marina.

13. Mount Tamborine

If you didn’t manage to see the free Glow Worms at the Natural Bridge, then could see the ones at Tamborine Mountain. Bookings are probably a good idea as this place can get pretty busy. However, they have Glow worms all year round (during the day) and you are guaranteed to see them.

Apart from that, Mount Tamborine brings other gems like a free swimming opportunity at places like Cedar Creek Falls. In the summer, you might have to fight through the crowds, but worth it for the several natural waterholes to cool off in.

14. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is just one of the Wildlife Zoo’s and an excellent option. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary might not be as big as Australia Zoo, but I think it does have plenty of variety and still worth visiting.

➡  Compare prices for Currumbin Wildlife Tickets HERE on Get Your Guide.

The one thing I loved about this Park is the personal animal interactions that were included. Animals like Macaws and Lemurs were just wandering around (obviously with a ranger nearby), and you were able to get up close and photograph.

15. Scenic Rim

If you’re looking for a quaint country getaway close to the city, then the Scenic Rim offers a unique blend of old-school architecture and boutique shops. There are also plenty of walking trails like Mount Barney, Mount Lindesay, Mount Maroon, and Mount May.

Some of the more popular towns in the Scenic Rim could be Boonah or Rathdowney, which are known for their small-town charm. There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as alpaca, camel, lavender or cheese farms.

16. Queen Mary Falls

The Queen Mary Falls is located just outside Killarney and can be reached by following the Waterfall Way. The trail takes you to the top of Queen Mary Falls, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.

Then, the trail winds its way down to the bottom of the falls, where you view from below. This is all contained within The Gondwana Rainforest (UNESCO World Heritage Listed) and is well worth a visit while you’re near Killarney. 

17. Noosa Heads & the Fairy Pools

Noosa Heads is a beautiful locality and one of the best places you could road trip from the city. Many will visit for the low tide swimming spot known as the Fairy pools , which are natural rock pools that are filled with crystal-clear ocean water.

Make sure you go really early, or at least out of weekends or school holidays. More importantly, this is a low tide activity, and you will need to check that before you go.

18. Caloundra

Known for its sunny weather and endless beaches,  Caloundra  is a top holiday destination when searching for things to do. Kings Beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is a great spot for swimming and surfing. Further around at Bulcock beach, you’ll enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding and some wading areas for the kids.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the famous Coastal Boardwalk pathway runs right through Caloundra and is a beautiful way to take in the sights and sounds of the coast. You’ll pass by rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters along the way.

19. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo would have to be one of the most popular Zoo’s available in Australia. Today you can see one of the biggest Crocodile feeding and information displays in Australia(apart from Darwin). An Asian animal display, Bird Aviary, Elephants, and an African Safari.

➡  Book your Australia Zoo Tickets & Transfers HERE with Get your Guide, Or HERE with Viator

The park has been opened since the 1970s and has grown over the years. And new animals and new exhibits are being introduced every year.

20. Kondalilla Falls

Kondalilla Falls is another off-beat, free-swimming location and even better, that it’s running almost all year round. There is a 4.7 kilometres loop hike that you can do, as well as stopping off for a swim.

If swimming is your only objective, you can walk to the waterhole and return on the same track for about 2 kilometres. But, be aware there are about 300 stairs, so make sure it’s suitable for your fitness level.

21. Mount Ngungun

If its views your after and a nice hike to take the family, then the Mt Ngungun summit hike is one of my favourites. It’s just less than 3 kilometres return to climb to the summit of this Glass House Mountain. Furthermore, a nicely formed path and hugely popular with the locals on the weekends.

There is a certain level of fitness required as you are climbing a mountain. Personally, I think this just refers to the top section and not the walking path itself. At no time did I feel I was off track or didn’t know where I was going.

22. Booloumba Creek Falls

Booloumba Creek Falls would have to be one of my favourite hikes and waterfalls in the area. It will not disappoint, but you will need a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get here. If your only wanting to visit the falls, then it’s a small 3 kilometre return hike on an easily formed track. There are 2 waterfalls to swim in, with the first more suitable for small children.

The falls are running most of the year-round and several swimming spots, including on top of the waterfall. There is a small amount of room for sitting and bringing along a picnic, but the closest facilities would be at Day-use Area number 2(about 10km away).

23. Buderim Falls

Buderim Falls are surprisingly so close to the Sunshine Coast and a quick stop if you’re looking to fill in some time. These falls have 2 entrances and only a short walk from each. They are fed from the city’s storm water, so not sure it’s a great spot for swimming, but you will find people in there from time to time.

The forest is dense, and it’s very easy to think you’re a long way away from the busy city. There is an easy boardwalk fitted at one end and rock-formed stairs from the other. Also, locals will use this area for their morning exercise and catch up with friends.

24. Gardners Falls

Gardners Falls would have to be one of the quickest places to walk to from the Car park, with only 300 metres. It’s a popular place to visit and plenty of room for a picnic and swimming around the waterhole. The walk actually runs along the creek, and you find people picking a spot anywhere along the Obi Obi Creek.

It’s a deep waterhole, so it might be handy to take along a flotation device or a pool noodle.

25. Settlement Cove Lagoon

Redcliffe is honestly a city on its own with a beachside location, and endless activities and accommodation to choose from. One popular spot is the Settlement Cove Lagoon , which is a free, lifeguarded, man-made lagoon-style pool. The pool is huge, and right beside the beach. This means you can also walk along the boardwalk and take in the beachside views.

26. Mount Mee

Looking for some fun Natural Swimming locations? Head to the beautiful D’Aguilar National Park, just 90 minutes away. This pocket of subtropical rainforest is home to eucalypt woodlands and spectacular wilderness views. Make a pit stop in Dayboro for a delicious pastry before heading to the Gantry to learn about the history of the former sawmill.

Your highlight in the summertime would be the Mount Mee Rocky Hole, which is one of the ideal places to swim near the city . This rocky swimming hole is a popular spot for locals and visitors, with its stunning views and the perfect spot to refuel before heading home.

27. Bribie Island

Bribie Island is still an Island, but one you can get there easy enough by driving over the Bridge to get there. There are so many things to see and do , with the west side of the island holding the main shopping complex and the calmer beaches, suitable for kids.

The west side overlooks the Pacific Ocean and so much room that you’re bound to find a spot on your own. If you have a 4WD, then you can purchase a permit to enter the National Park and drive up the beach to the lagoon or fish/swim of the shores.

28. King Island

King Island is only a small Island, and a popular area for locals to exercise and take the dog for a walk. What makes this spot unique is you can only get to it during a low tide, so please check the tide times before attempting.

The island consists of a small amount of vegetation and few wildlife species. Mangrove surrounds the area, and the boat channel just nearby. Consequently, it takes only 20 mins to walk out and even less time to walk around King Island.

29. Mount Coot-Tha

Mount Coot-tha is only a short distance from the city with about 20 different hikes to complete. One of the popular hikes is the Summit Climb, which takes about 1.5 hours to complete. It starts at the bottom around the JC Slaughter Falls Car Park and wanders up the forest on a nicely formed track.

Mount Coot-tha is open 24 hours, has a café, souvenir store and the views from the Lookout (day or night) are the best.

30. Ipswich

Ipswich is located on the western side of Brisbane with a population of 200,000 people. It’s known as Queensland’s oldest city with a lot of historical buildings (about 6000 that are heritage listed).

When planning a day out with the kids or a group of friends, you might like to visit the Orion Lagoon. Alternatively, you can roam the many cafes, explore the antique centre, take the Cobb & co tourist drive or maybe take things to the extreme with a V8 race car experience.

31. Scuba Diving

Where are all my Scuba Divers out there? There are several different Scuba Diving sites in the area . Although after 200 dives in the area myself, I think the visibility can be a little temperamental, but the variety of animals you can see is amazing.

This Includes anything from Mantas, Stingrays, Leopard Sharks, Grey Nurse Sharks, Nudibranchs, and other Macro creatures. However, depending on the season, there is always a place to discover and even ones you can organise from Tangalooma and Stradbroke Islands.

32. Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island is a small island just off the coast of Bundaberg in Central Queensland. The entire day will have you leaving from Redcliffe Airport at 715am and have you returning about 4pm. This means you will have about 5 hours on a tropical island, in the snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef .

The biggest drawn card for Lady Elliot Island is the water activities. With snorkelling and the glass bottom boat tours, you’re very likely to swim with turtles, plenty of fish, and sometimes Mantas when they are in season.

33. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a stunning coastal town in northern New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the many beaches or explore the shops and cafes in the town centre.

There are also plenty of art galleries and studios to check out and several festivals throughout the year. Byron Bay is also home to the most easterly point in Australia(at the Lighthouse), making it a popular spot for sunrise watching.

34. Stanthorpe

Travel a little further southwest of the city and visit the small town of Stanthorpe. It’s famous for its cheeses, truffles, and apples, so you can imagine it’s a foodie heaven. The Stanthorpe Apple and Flower Festival is a must-see event and is held around February/ March each year.

If you’re a hiking lover, then the amazing  Girraween National Park  is just a short drive away. Both the Pyramid Hike and the Sphinx/Turtle Rock hike are top favourites with visitors and are bound to challenge your fitness.

35. Lake Somerset

You wouldn’t expect Lake Somerset to be on my list today, but a day on the lake is heaps of fun. Depending on where you’re coming from, there is plenty of small towns to go through, for local cafes and new things to try. Towns like Esk and Kilcoy or stopping off for a swim at the Enoggera Reservoir.

Apart from that, Lake Somerset has its own activities like swimming, Boating, Jet Skiing, Paddle boarding, or Fishing. You can pack a picnic and stop for those calming sunset views while sipping champagne.

36. Toowoomba

Toowoomba is one of Queensland’s largest inland city’s with a population of 130,000 people. It’s known for representing colonial times with the Cobb & co Museum, Bunya Mountains National park and the Royal Bull’s Head Inn. Not only that, but tourists will flock to the city in droves to witness the Spring Carnival of Flowers festival.

Wrap Up – Day Trips from Brisbane

Thanks for reading todays blog post on day trips from Brisbane and I hope you found the information you were looking for! There is so much variety in South East Queensland, so please check out more Brisbane articles here for planning and inspiration.

Read More Articles:

Brisbane Lookouts & Beyond the City with Map

Best area to stay in Brisbane

Is Brisbane Safe to Visit?

Closest Motels/Hotels to Brisbane Airport

Is the Gold Coast Part of Brisbane, in Queensland?

Best Things to do at Southbank Brisbane

Best places to Hike in and around Brisbane

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries (including my home Australia), I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures.

So, whether you need insider tips, or want to live vicariously through my escapades – You’ll find something to love in my blog.”

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