road trip melbourne to cairns

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach Campervan Hire Location

Melbourne to Cairns Drive

The melbourne to cairns drive, 4,800 km | 55 hr drive | 6 - 7 weeks.

The Melbourne to Cairns Drive (or Cairns to Melbourne Drive) takes in the entire East Coast of Australia. With all the stops it adds up to 4,800 km. To put this in perspective, Edinburgh to Istanbul is 2,280 km and New York City to Los Angeles is 2,780 km. There is much to see, some of it so beautiful and unique that it's World Heritage Listed.

Daily drive times average around 3 hours per day. We have suggested places where you might wish to spend more time. If you do all of these you'll add 10 or more days to your itinerary as well as memories that will last a lifetime

Keep scrolling for the Cairns to Melbourne itinerary.

phillip island - Melbourne to Cairns Drive

Itinerary Melbourne to Cairns Drive

PART ONE - Melbourne to Sydney Drive

Day 1 & 2: Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula – 100 km | 1.5 hrs
Day 3 & 4: Phillip Island – 145 km | 2 hr
Day 5 & 6: Wilsons Prom – 140 km | 2 hrs
Day 8: Gippsland Lakes – 277 km | 3 hr 45 m
Day 9 & 10: Croajingolong National Park, Mallacoota and Merimbula – 368 km | 5.5 hrs
Day 11 & 12: Pigeon House Mountain climb and 4 National Parks – 313 km | 5 hrs
Day 13: Booderee National Park – no driving
Day 14: Sea Cliff Bridge and Nan Tien Temple – 170 km | 3 hrs
Day 15: Royal National Park – no driving
Day 16 - 18: Sydney – 36 km | 45 m

PART TWO - Sydney to Brisbane Drive

Day 19: Sydney to the Hunter Valley - 165 km or 388 km | 3 hr Optional 2 days : Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks - 388 km | 5 hr 45 m
Day 20 & 21 : Hunter Valley to Myall Lakes - 242 km | 3.5 hrs
Day 22 & 23: Myall Lakes to Dorrigo National Park - 362 km | 4 hr 20 m
Day 24 & 25 : Dorrigo National Park to Byron Bay - 373 km | 4 hr
Day 26 & 27 : Byron Bay to the Gold Coast - 200 km | 3 hr 15 m
Day 28 & 29: Gold Coast to Brisbane (via Springbrook and Lamington National Parks) - 215 km | 4 h
Day 30: Brisbane – no driving
Day 31: Brisbane , Glass House Mountains , Hinterland , Noosa : – 175 km | 3 h
Day 32: Rainbow Beach & Great Sandy National Park : – 135 km | 1 hr 45 m
Day 33: Fraser Island : no driving (Optional extra day on Fraser Island. Ferries leave from Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay. Campervans are not allowed on the island so rent a 4WD or book a tour.)
Day 34: Hervey Bay and Bundaberg : – 135 km | 1 h 35 Whale watching July - November
Day 35: Agnes Water, 1770 : – 230 km | 2 h 45 m (optional additional day at Lady Musgrave Island)
Day 36: Capricorn Caves : – 253 km | 3 h (Tours leave 9.00 am, 10.00 am, 11.00 am and last an hour. AU$33 per adult.)
Day 37: Cape Hillsborough National Park : – 363 km | 4 hr
Day 38: Eungella National Park , Airlie Beach : – 277 km | 3 h 45 m (If time is tight, skip Eungella National Park)

Day 39: Spend a day exploring Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays (Optional extra day in Airlie Beach)
Day 40: Airlie Beach to Townsville – 275 km | 3 h 15 m
Day 41: Magnetic Island No driving Ferries depart and return every hour (optional extra day exploring Charters Towers )
Day 42: Paluma Range National Park and Cardwell Spa Pool – 225 km | 3.5 hr
Day 43: Hinchinbrook Island (world heritage listed) – 70 km | 1 hr Book boat to island $150 round trip (departs 8.30 am) (Optional Thorsborne Trail - 4 days. Must pre-book.)
Day 44: Mission Beach and Paronella Park – 4 5 km | 45 min (optional extra day in Mission Beach)
Day 45: Wooroonooran NP, Babinda Boulders, Walshs Pyramid, Cairns – 175 km | 2.5 hr (optional extra day overnight at Babinda free camping)

When you arrive in Cairns give yourself at least a week to explore Cairns , Port Douglas , Cooktown , the Great Barrier Reef, Atherton Tablelands , Undara Lava Tubes and the Daintree Rainforest .

Itinerary Cairns to Melbourne Drive

Day 1: Walsh's Pyramid, rainforest swimming holes, Wooroonooran NP – 125 km | 1 h 50 m drive (optional extra day in Wooroonooran NP)
Day 2: Paronella Park, Mission Beach – 88 km | 1 h 15 m drive (optional extra day in Mission Beach)
Day 3: Hinchinbrook Island (World Heritage Listed) – 70 km | 1 hr drive Book Hinchinbrook Island Cruises to island $150 per person (departs 8.30 am) (Optional Thorsborne Trail - 4 days. Must pre-book.)
Day 4: Cardwell Spa Pool and Paluma Range National Park – 140 km | 2 h
Day 5: Townsville and Magnetic Island – 85 km | 1 h 20 m Ferries depart and return every hour (adult round trip $30 - $35) (optional extra day exploring Townsville or Charters Towers )
Day 6: Bowen, Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays – 275 km | 3 h 15 m

hinchinbrook zoe falls Melbourne to Cairns Drive

Day 7 & 8: Airlie Beach the Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach.
Day 9: Eungella & Cape Hillsborough National Parks : 276 km | 3 h 45 m (If time is tight, skip Eungella and head straight for Cape Hillsborough)
Day 10: Capricorn Caves : 362 km | 4 h Tours leave 9.00 am, 10.00 am, 11.00 am and last an hour (AU$33 adults)
Day 11: Agnes Water, 1770 : 253 | 3 h (optional extra day at Lady Musgrave Island)
Day 12: Bundaberg , Hervey Bay : 230 km | 2 h 45 m Whale watching July - November
Day 13: Fraser Island : no driving (optional extra day at Fraser Island)
Day 14: Rainbow Beach & Great Sandy National Park : 135 km |1 h 35 m
Day 15: Noosa , Glass House Mountains , Hinterland , Brisbane : 296 km | 4 h
Day 16: Brisbane
Day 17 & 18: Brisbane - Gold Coast (via Springbrook and Lamington National Parks) - 215 km | 4 h
Day 19 - 22: Gold Coast - Byron Bay - 200 km | 3 h 15 m
Day 23 & 24 : Byron Bay - Dorrigo National Park - 373 km | 4 h
Day 25 & 26: Dorrigo National Park - Myall Lakes - 362 km | 4 h 20 m
Day 27 & 28: Myall Lakes - Hunter Valley - 242 km | 3.5 hrs
Day 29 & 30: Hunter Valley - Sydney - 165 km or 388 km | 3 - 5 hrs Optional 2 days : Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks - 388 km | 5 h 45 m

giant stairway Melbourne to Cairns Drive

PART FOUR - Sydney to Melbourne Drive

This is the coastal itinerary. If you'd prefer to take in Canberra and its museums as well as the Snowy Mountains and Alpine National Parks, take the Mountain and Coastal Sydney to Melbourne Drive.

Day 31: Sydney
Day 32: Royal National Park –
Day 33: Sea Cliff Bridge and Nan Tien Temple – 93 km | 1 h 25 min
Day 34 & 35: Booderee National Park – 88 km | 1 hr 25 min
Day 36: Pigeon House Mountain climb and 4 National Parks – 210 km | 3.5 hrs
Day 37 & 38: Merimbula to Mallacoota and Croajingolong National Park – 260 km | 3.5 hrs
Day 39: Gippsland Lakes – 350 km | 4 hr 40 min
Day 40 & 41: Wilsons Prom – 227 km | 3 hrs
Day 42 & 43: Phillip Island – 135 km | 2 hrs
Day 44 & 45: Mornington Peninsula – 144 km | 2 hr

Mornington Peninsula is just 76 km (1 hr) from Melbourne.

Melbourne to Cairns Map

There are more detailed maps for each stop on the itinerary.

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Campervan hire depots.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

40 Best Stops Between Melbourne and Cairns

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How long is the drive from Melbourne to Cairns?

The direct drive from Melbourne to Cairns is 1,858 mi (2,990 km) , and should have a drive time of 1 day 12 hrs in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Melbourne to Cairns, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Canberra , Townsville , Dubbo , Echuca , Healesville , Mudgee , Orange , Beechworth , Mudgee , and Orange , as well as top places to visit like Mount Buller and Hotham Alpine Resort, or the ever-popular Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine (Tours Daily).

Top cities between Melbourne and Cairns

Healesville.

Townsville City

Best stops along Melbourne to Cairns drive

Long tunnel extended gold mine (tours daily).

Mount Buller

Hotham alpine resort, falls creek, bright brewery, canyon walk, bogong horseback adventures, milawa cheese company, mt kosciuszko, wildbrumby schnapps distillery, beechworth historic court house.

Perisher Ski Resort

Woolshed falls, lake hume village, albury botanic gardens, cowra visitor information centre, cowra japanese garden and cultural centre, jenolan caves, mayfield garden, hassans walls, mcfeeters motor museum, mount panorama motor racing circuit, australian fossil and mineral museum, lake canobolas, parkes observatory, mudgee honey haven, lowe family wine co, entrance road to the csiro paul wild observatory - home of the australia telescope compact array, miles historical village museum.

Attractions

All related maps of Cairns

Map of Cairns
Map of Edge Hill
Map of Aeroglen
Map of Bayview Heights
Map of Freshwater
Map of Holloways Beach
Map of Redlynch
Map of Yarrabah
Map of Caravonica
Map of Edmonton
Map of Smithfield
Map of Yorkeys Knob
Map of Trinity Beach
Map of Kewarra Beach
Map of Kuranda
Map of Speewah
Map of Clifton Beach
Map of Gordonvale
Map of Palm Cove
Map of Little Mulgrave
Map of Ellis Beach
Map of Wangetti
Map of Biboohra
Map of Tinaroo
Map of Mareeba
Map of Lake Eacham
Map of Yungaburra
Map of Tolga
Map of Malanda
Map of Babinda
Map of Atherton

Cairns throughout the year

Cairns in January
Cairns in February
Cairns in March
Cairns in April
Cairns in May
Cairns in June
Cairns in July
Cairns in August
Cairns in September
Cairns in October
Cairns in November
Cairns in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Cairns?

Get inspired for your trip to Cairns with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

1-Day Cairns Itinerary
2-Day Cairns Itinerary
3-Day Cairns Itinerary
4-Day Cairns Itinerary
5-Day Cairns Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from melbourne to cairns.

Yes! You can drive from Melbourne to Cairns.

How far is Cairns from Melbourne by car?

The drive from Melbourne to Cairns is 1,858 miles (2,990 km).

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

Driving from Melbourne to Cairns should take you 1 day 12 hrs in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Melbourne to Cairns?

Gas from Melbourne to Cairns would cost around $163 to $380 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Melbourne to Cairns?

You could check out Mount Buller and Hotham Alpine Resort, or the always popular Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine (Tours Daily)!

What are the best cities to visit between Melbourne and Cairns?

People love visiting Canberra, Townsville, and Dubbo, among others.

What's the weather like in Melbourne?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

Weather in Melbourne in January
Weather in Melbourne in February
Weather in Melbourne in March
Weather in Melbourne in April
Weather in Melbourne in May
Weather in Melbourne in June
Weather in Melbourne in July
Weather in Melbourne in August
Weather in Melbourne in September
Weather in Melbourne in October
Weather in Melbourne in November
Weather in Melbourne in December

What are some other road trips from Melbourne?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Melbourne.

Melbourne to Sydney drive
Melbourne to Canberra drive
Melbourne to Ballarat drive
Melbourne to Adelaide drive
Melbourne to Hobart drive
Melbourne to the Gold Coast drive
Melbourne to Torquay drive
Melbourne to Brisbane drive
Melbourne to Greater Bendigo drive
Melbourne to Summerlands drive
Melbourne to Launceston drive
Melbourne to Port Campbell drive
Melbourne to Warrnambool drive
Melbourne to Katoomba drive
Melbourne to Halls Gap drive
Melbourne to Echuca drive
Melbourne to Cessnock drive
Melbourne to Apollo Bay drive
Melbourne to Strahan drive
Melbourne to Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park drive
Melbourne to Cairns drive
Melbourne to Mount Gambier drive
Melbourne to Coles Bay drive
Melbourne to Beechworth drive
Melbourne to Port Macquarie drive
Melbourne to Port Arthur drive
Melbourne to Devonport drive
Melbourne to Dubbo drive
Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory National Park drive
Melbourne to Broken Hill drive

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3 day itinerary for Drive From Melbourne To Cairns Australia

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A road trip from Melbourne to Cairns is an exciting adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Australia. Here's a suggested itinerary for your 3-day drive:

Day 1: Melbourne to Sydney

Start your journey early in the morning and head north towards Sydney. The drive will take around 9 hours, so make sure to take breaks along the way. You can stop at Albury-Wodonga , a twin city on the border of Victoria and New South Wales, for lunch and a stroll along the Murray River . Once you arrive in Sydney, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the city. Visit the iconic Opera House, take a walk across the Harbour Bridge , or enjoy a sunset drink at one of the many rooftop bars.

Day 2: Sydney to Byron Bay

After breakfast, hit the road again and head north towards Byron Bay. The drive will take around 9 hours, but there are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way. One option is to visit the Hunter Valley wine region , where you can sample some of Australia's best wines and enjoy a gourmet lunch. Another option is to stop at Port Macquarie , a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches and a koala hospital. Once you arrive in Byron Bay, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the town. Take a walk along the beach, watch the surfers catch waves, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.

Day 3: Byron Bay to Cairns

On your final day, wake up early and hit the road towards Cairns. The drive will take around 10 hours, but there are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way. One option is to visit the Gold Coast , a popular tourist destination with theme parks, beaches, and nightlife. Another option is to stop at Townsville, a vibrant city with a beautiful waterfront and a rich history. Once you arrive in Cairns, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the city. Visit the night markets, take a sunset cruise on the harbour, or enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants.

Overall, this itinerary will give you a taste of some of the best cities and attractions along the east coast of Australia. Of course, there are many other places to visit and things to do along the way, so feel free to customize the itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. Safe travels!

Places of interest

Albury-Wodonga

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Murray River

Sydney Opera House

Harbour Bridge

Hunter Valley wine region

Port Macquarie

Byron Bay beach

Gold Coast Drive From Melbourne To Cairns Australia

Townsville waterfront

Cairns night markets

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The Ultimate Melbourne To Cairns Road Trip Itinerary

AD | This post about the ultimate Melbourne to Cairns road trip includes mentions of gifted and collaborative work with RatPack Travel and Camperman Australia. It also includes affiliate links, please see my disclaimer for more.

After the roaring success of our South Island New Zealand road trip , we knew we wanted to do a very similar thing in Australia and there’s really no better option than an epic drive along East Coast Australia, specifically a Melbourne to Cairns road trip.

We spent 5 days in Melbourne in a hotel before picking up our campervan and heading all the way up to Cairns. It took us around 30 days and thousands of kilometres to drive from Melbourne to Cairns in our campervan, with plenty of stops along the way.

If you’re planning to travel along East Coast Australia on an epic road trip from Melbourne to Cairns, I’ve got just the post for you!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before your East Coast Australia road trip!

AUSTRALIA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS Flights: Kiwi.com Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities/tours: Get Your Guide / Viator Travel insurance: SafetyWing Reviews: TripAdvisor My backpacking essentials: Amazon

Top tours & attractions to experience on a Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour From Melbourne
Blue Mountains Full-Day Trip with Cruise From Sydney
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Sea Kayak Tour with Dolphins and Turtles From Byron Bay
Moreton Island Full-Day Trip From Brisbane or Gold Coast
Hervey Bay 4-Hour Whale Watch Encounter
Afternoon Cruise through the Noosa Everglades
Whitehaven Full-Day Eco-Cruise with Lunch From Airlie Beach
Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran From Cairns
Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight

Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary map

During our 36 days in Australia, we covered approximately 4,396km across 3 territories, numerous cities and endless beaches.

We started our trip with 5 blissful nights in the CitiClub Hotel Melbourne and after spending over 5 weeks living in a van in New Zealand , we thought we deserved a bit of TLC (read: an actual bed, a proper shower and a place to sleep for more than 2 nights!).

It was lovely to be in a hotel, but we were eager to get back on the road and start exploring more of what Australia had to offer so we picked our new van up and hit the road!

Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary summary

Golden Beach & Cann River
Bream Beach, Hyams Beach, Bondi Beach
Palm Beach & Dee Why Beach
Central Coast
Port Macquarie & Coffs Harbour
Glass House Mountains
Sunshine Coast & Australia Zoo
Noosa Heads National Park & Hervey Bay
Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Islands
Cairns & The Great Barrier Reef

Hiring a campervan for our Melbourne to Cairns road trip

hiring a campervan in Australia RatPack travel

In terms of full disclosure, we booked our van through RatPack Travel who provided us with a media rate discount on the Camperman van they found for us. RatPack Travel is an excellent team based in Byron Bay and they’re so attentive and unbelievably helpful if you have any questions!

Unfortunately, while the campervan we got was incredibly spacious and more convenient than our New Zealand vans , the Camperman team we dealt with were very unreliable and so rude.

Our van broke down twice during our trip and every time we called for help, they were just unreceptive. However, apart from that, we adored the van and how much space it had and I would definitely go for that sort of van again, I just wished the team were a bit more helpful!

Day 1 to 5 – Melbourne

We had five days to explore Melbourne which we took full advantage of and saw as much of the city as we could. I’ll write an entire post about what we did in Melbourne as it’s such a great city and I loved it so much.

Once we picked our van up on the fifth day, we drove to St Kilda and explored there a bit before driving to Tooradin where we spent the first night in our new van!

Read more: The Ultimate Melbourne Bucket List for First-Time Visitors

Day 6 – Toora tourist park

We used our trusty Campermate app to find our next campsite for the day/night and discovered Toora Tourist Park which was incredibly reasonably priced and even had a swimming pool and a jacuzzi (which of course we made full use of!).

Day 7 – Golden Beach & Cann River

Next up was Golden Beach and on our drive, we saw SO many dead kangaroos on the side of the road; if you’re thinking of doing an Australian road trip, that’s something that you really have to be prepared for as it’s hard to comprehend just how many you’ll see!

Day 8 – Canberra – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Things to do in Canberra, Victoria Australia

Day 8 of our Aussie road trip saw us heading to the country’s capital city; Canberra .

There’s not an awful lot to do there but it’s still beautiful nonetheless and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the parliament and government buildings!

Check out the best things to do in Canberra here!

Day 9 – Bream Beach

How to see Kangaroos in Australia Bream Beach

One of the most surreal and amazing experiences we had in Australia was staying at a campsite that was home to more than 40 kangaroos!

The lady who owns the site helps to look after and raise the kangaroos, but they’re completely free to roam around and come and go as they please!

Day 10 – Hyams Beach, Bondi Beach, Sydney

Australia’s beaches are some of the very best in the world and we got to see so many while we were road-tripping.

Hyams Beach has some of the cleanest, whitest sand I’ve ever seen and then, of course, Bondi Beach was a definite highlight!

It felt so surreal to be standing on one of the most famous beaches in the world and even though we didn’t actually go in the sea or sunbathe, it’s somewhere that I’d love to return to one day!

Day 11 – Palm Beach & Dee Why Beach

On day 11 we made our way to Sydney which has been a place on my bucket list for so many years.

We stayed with some of Matt’s distant family while we were there and they took us around some of the best beaches in Sydney in their 1967 Mustang! This was definitely a highlight of our trip for me!

Read more: My Top 12 Favourite Australia Experiences – Best Memories From Australia.

Day 12 – Sydney – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

The following day we headed into the actual city of Sydney and I fell in love with it every bit as much as I expected to!

We saw some of the most iconic structures in the world including the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House and we spent a full day exploring everything we possibly could!

Check out all the best tours and attractions in Sydney!

Day 13 & 14 – Central Coast & Dunleith Tourist Park

Dunleith Tourist Park Central Coast Australia

The following day we were making our way towards Central Coast when our van very (not so!) helpfully decided to break down and lose power to 40kmph in a 100kmph zone!

Compared to the previous day, it was an absolute nightmare but we managed to get it fixed and then stayed at Dunleith Tourist Park where we were greeted with a beautiful sunset to make up for an incredibly crappy day!

Day 15 – Port Macquarie – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Hiring a campervan in Australia road trip

We spent the next day doing lots of driving so we didn’t get up to much at all. As we were covering such a long distance in a relatively short period of time, we actually had a few days where we did nothing but drive from one place to the next.

Day 16 – Coffs Harbour

On day 16 we explored Coffs Harbour and made fish finger sandwiches next to the sea which was such a lovely way to spend lunchtime.

We then did lots of driving again in the afternoon and parked up at a free campsite at the side of a highway which was essentially a huge parking lot with SO many campervans, caravans and trailers parked there!

Read more: How Much We Spent Converting A Campervan – What You Need To Know

Day 17 & 18 – Byron Bay – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

We spent the next two days in Byron Bay which I didn’t love quite as much as I expected but it’s still such an unbelievably beautiful place nonetheless.

There were a few things that put me off it such as how snobby everyone seemed to be; it really felt like a place for the elite youth and if you weren’t, then you felt quite judged…

We were also expecting the nightlife to be a bit more lively but it just felt rather non-existent. Apart from that, the beach is absolutely stunning and the campsite we stayed at was lush.

Book a Byron Bay adventure here!

Day 19 – Gold Coast (Nobby Beach)

Best things to do in the Gold Coast Australia

The next day we headed to the Gold Coast which incidentally turned out to be my favourite place that we visited on our road trip from Melbourne to Cairns.

It has everything I would ever want out of a place; tall skyscrapers, beautiful beaches, swimming and surfing opportunities, plus so many cute little towns and villages too.

We walked along the beaches for several kilometres and were greeted with the most breathtaking view of the skyline. The Gold Coast is a place that’s very high on my wishlist of places to live!

Read more: 9 Best Beaches Along East Coast Australia

Day 20 – Gold Coast – Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary

The next day we met up with more members of Matt’s extended family (his grandad’s cousin’s daughter and her little family!) and we had a day of exploring more of the Gold Coast with them, eating yummy food and playing with their two kids and we also stayed over at their house.

It was so lovely to meet them even though they’re incredibly distantly related to Matt; we had the best time with them!

Read more: 40 Best Campervan Meals That Aren’t Boring

Day 21 & 22 – Beenleigh

East Coast Australia road trip itinerary Melbourne to Cairns

The following couple of days were relatively boring in comparison as we drove to a place called Beenleigh where we stayed at a free site next to a shopping centre for two nights and spent all of our time working.

Day 23 – Brisbane – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Back to the fun stuff now as we headed to Brisbane to finally meet my long-time blogging friend Gi! It was so lovely to finally meet her after talking online for so many years and we had a great time exploring the city at sunset and at night!

Find the best tours and attractions in Brisbane here!

Day 24 – Glass House Mountains & Beerwah

The next day we moved on to a place along the Bruce Highway called Beerwah which incidentally isn’t too far from the Australia Zoo .

Along the way, we stopped off at the Glass House Mountains Lookout and as it was such a beautifully clear day, we could see for miles around!

Read more: Why Australia Zoo Is A Must-See Attraction

Day 25 – Australia Zoo & Sunshine Coast

The next day we went to the Australia Zoo which was another one of the highlights of our trip.

I was quite sceptical about zoos at first but the work that goes on at the Australia Zoo is so incredible and inspiring and it was amazing to interact with all the animals.

Book tickets to the Australia Zoo here!

Day 26 – Noosa Heads, Noosa National Park

Noosa Heads National Park whale watching

Noosa Heads is famous for being a perfect spot along the East Coast to spot some whales and we were so incredibly lucky that we saw three breaches while we were there!

We also paid a visit to Sunshine Coast Beach and Noosa National Park while we were there.

Check out the best things to do in Noosa Heads here!

Day 27 – Hervey Bay – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

We spent a lot of the day driving on day 27 but we did make a quick stop at Hervey Bay as it’s another place that’s notoriously good for whale watching. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any here but we did enjoy wandering along the beach and the pier.

Find the best things to do in Hervey Bay!

Day 28 – 7 hours of driving

East Coast Australia road trip itinerary

On day 28, we spent 7 hours in the car driving all the way up towards Airlie Beach where we stopped at a free campsite just south of the town which was essentially a huge truck stop behind a BP garage!

Day 29 – Airlie Beach – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

On our relatively short drive into Airlie Beach from the free campsite, we had yet more van troubles when the air con unit started leaking liquid into the footwell!

As I mentioned before, the staff at the Camperman store in Airlie Beach were pretty rude and the man didn’t even fix the issue; he just gave us a towel to put down to mop up the water!

However, we drove to a beautiful campsite in Airlie Beach where we spent the rest of the day attracting more mishaps such as a tub of ice cream leaking out and spilling over everything in our freezer! We decided to write that day off and have a much better day tomorrow…

Day 30 – Whitsunday Islands Tour

Whitsunday Islands tour Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Which leads me nicely on to day 30; our day trip to the Whitsunday Islands ! This was an absolutely remarkable experience and it’s without a doubt one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.

We enjoyed cruising around the islands, eating lunch on the boat and snorkelling with fish and coral; it was absolutely perfect!

Book a Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach Tour here.

Day 31 – Drove to Townsville – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

After our eventful day exploring the Whitsundays we drove to a free site at yet another BP garage just outside of Townsville and spent the afternoon napping, working and watching Finding Nemo.

Day 32 – Townsville

The next day we went into Townsville itself and drove up to the top of the Castle Hill Lookout (you can walk up to it, but it seemed far too much of an effort for us!). We also wandered down to The Strand and saw the Rockpool and various cute little parks.

Once we’d got our fill of Townsville, we drove to a tiny little town called Feluga where we parked at the back of a hotel for the night and enjoyed a few drinks inside the bar!

Looking for the best things to do in Townsville? Check out these top tours and activities!

Day 33 – Drive to Cairns – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

1 month East Coast Australia Melbourne to Cairns road trip

The next day we drove the four-hour journey up to Cairns where we checked into a paid campsite for the next three nights; this was the longest we’d ever stayed in a paid site, including in New Zealand!

Day 34 – Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef

Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef on 1 month East Coast Australia Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Our penultimate full day in Australia saw us heading to the Great Barrier Reef to go snorkelling and scuba diving which was one of the most remarkably surreal experiences of my life.

It was our first ever time scuba diving and as I have quite a fear of the ocean, it was a pretty big challenge for me but I’m so happy I did it as it was a truly humbling thing to be able to swim with the fish and the coral in the Great Barrier Reef!

Book an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns here.

Day 35 – Stay at a campsite in Cairns

On our last full day in Cairns (and Australia!), we just stayed at the campsite and did some work and laundry and packed our bags ready to leave the next day.

We also took advantage of the site’s free mini-golf facility where I whooped Matt 2 to 1! It was a great way to conclude the last full day of our Australia East Coast road trip!

Day 36 – Cinema & fly to Bali!

The next morning we left the campsite and took some of our winter clothes to a charity shop as we figured we’d no longer need them throughout Southeast Asia over the coming months!

We then went to a local shopping mall and to the cinema where we watched Once Upon A Time In Hollywood which was a pretty disappointing film in my opinion, especially considering how much I adore Leo and Tarantino films!

Once we’d dropped our campervan back at the depot in Cairns, we made our way to the airport and flew to Bali , ready for the next part of our travelling adventure!

I enjoyed Australia way more than I ever thought I would and it was an experience that I’ll never forget and would recommend to anyone in the world!

If you’re looking to plan a trip to East Coast Australia or an epic 1-month Melbourne to Cairns road trip, please send me a message as I’d love to help you out!

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Is a Melbourne to Cairns road trip on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram at @imjustagirl_16 .

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thanks for the information and advice 🙂

Cairns to Melbourne Spots You Mustn’t Miss

Few experiences will beat the exhilaration that comes with hiring your own campervan and exploring Australia’s coast. At Travellers Autobarn Australia, we’re here to make hiring a campervan in Australia easier for each of our customers. With one-way hire agreements available, taking a campervan from Cairns is an excellent choice when you want to remain flexible and return in another location.

If you choose to hire one of our vans, why not take a Cairns to Melbourne road trip? With spectacular scenery, an abundance of surfing opportunities, and the chance to dip into crystal clear waters, this is a trip you shouldn’t miss. We know there are lots of attractions you’ll want to see. As a starting point, here’s our favourite Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary.

3620km trip distance

15 day roadtrip

Campervan recommended

Cairns to Airlie Beach

Time taken: 7 hours

Distance travelled: 610km

Are you ready for your first mammoth drive? Hiring a campervan in Australia does mean spending a lot of time on the road. However, when you reach Airlie Beach you’ll soon feel as though every moment was worth it. Take the time to settle down in your new environment by staying at one of the campsites that allows Travellers Autobarn customers to stay for free.

After finding your parking spot, you can spend the next three-to-four days experiencing everything Airlie has to offer. If you’re a fan of marine life, take a boat charter and explore the ocean. If an overnight stop appeals to you, take a tour to the Whitsunday Islands and trek through miles of rainforest or snorkel amongst vibrant coral reefs.

Airlie Beach to Rockhampton

Time taken: 5.5 hours

Distance travelled: 480km

You’ll struggle to find anywhere else in Australia that produces such succulent steak, thanks to the flourishing beef industry in Rockhampton. If you’re happy to head out towards Gladstone, you’ll discover some of the world’s finest red wines at the Gecko Valley Vineyard.

For those who seek adventure, a visit beneath the Earth’s surface to the Capricorn Caves is always a worthy expedition. The caves are brimming with limestone and they include a natural cathedral-like structure at the centre.

Rockhampton to Hervey Bay

Time taken: 4.5 hours

Distance travelled: 394km

After leaving the culinary delights of Rockhampton behind, it’s time to head for Hervey Bay. On this journey you’ll absorb some of the East Australian Coast’s best scenery. Once there, it’s time to take a trip into the waters so you can spot some humpback whales. After you return to shore, take a trip to Fraser Island, where you can dip your toes in the sea or a freshwater lake. Continuing the sea theme, try Urangan Pier for a spot of scenic fishing.

Hervey Bay to Noosa

Time taken: 2.5 hours

Distance travelled: 190km

Leaving Hervey Bay behind may feel like a heartbreaking experience. But, your next destination has the potential to dazzle and delight you as well. After a fleeting journey along the coast to Noosa, you’ll have the chance to experience attractions and sports of all kinds. When you choose Travellers Autobarn for campervan hire in Australia, you’ll also benefit from free discounts that allow you to lower the price of Noosa’s best attractions.

Whether you love zoos, walking, or catching some waves, Noosa won’t let you down. As a family-friendly destination, Noosa’s National Park features an array of beautiful hiking trails. There’s something to match all abilities, and if you don’t want to venture too far you can always park yourself at a beach with a picnic. More specifically, Sunshine Beach is a paradise for surfers. Always make sure you can handle the sea’s rip before heading into the water.

Noosa to the Gold Coast

Time taken: 2.5 hours

Distance travelled: 220km

All of the effort that goes into finding a campervan hire in Australia feels worth it when you reach the Gold Coast. As one of Queensland’s finest coastal cities, it offers a ridiculously diverse selection of activities. As such, you may want to stay for a few days even though the journey from Noosa was brief. One of the most popular attractions at the Gold Coast is Sea World, where travellers of all ages can hop onto exhilarating rides and check out marine-based wildlife.

If you want to continue spending time in nature, try heading 45-minutes inland to explore Springbrook National Park. Featuring volcano-formed rocks, rain forests, and waterfalls, Springbrook is an excellent hiking opportunity for those seeking a tranquil camping experience. Just make sure you take your tent out of your campervan before you set off!

Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Time taken: 1 . 25 hours

Distance travelled: 95km

Now that you’re edging closer towards Melbourne, we think you deserve another short journey. Byron Bay carries a charming atmosphere that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere on your journey. From the eternally romantic Cape Byron Lighthouse to the serene waters of Arakwal Park, this particular stop is all about rejuvenation. If you’re keen to speed towards your end destination of Melbourne, feel free to treat Byron Bay as a fleeting visit.

The Final Stop: Sydney to Melbourne

Time taken: 9 hours

Distance travelled: 880km

We hope you’re planning to spend a few days in Sydney, as your final road trip journey is another long one. With a total of nine more hours in your campervan, you’ll likely feel relieved that we offer one-way rentals. Once in Melbourne, you can relax after your epic journey by paying a visit to Yarra River. Alongside the chance to immerse yourself in a naturally soothing environment, you’re in the perfect setting to enjoy a wine tour. As for Melbourne itself, it’s home to stupendous beaches, including Brighton Beach. Featuring 82 neat and colourful huts, Brighton Beach has all of the quaint seaside charm you need to relax and put your feet up after your long journey.

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Are you ready to start your Cairns to Melbourne road trip. At Travellers Autobarn Australia, we’re here to make sure your campervan hire in Australia is economical and convenient. For reliable one-way campervans and fast deposit release times, hire a campervan from Cairns . Your next adventure awaits!

If you want to read more of our Cairns adventures, come and explore the dedicated Cairns Road Trips . Happy Exploring! You can also start from Melbourne, so don’t forget to check out our latest deals & specials on campervan hire in Melbourne.

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Melbourne to Cairns Road Trip | 28 Remarkable East Coast Towns with your dog

Last updated on 6 May, 2023

The East Coast of Australia is one of the most travelled road trips. Spectacular coastline, magnificent mountain ranges, unique bushland, the world’s largest ocean reef and a mind-boggling array of attractions and activities, a Melbourne to Cairns road trip with your dog is guaranteed to EPIC!

Our itinerary takes you from Melbourne to Cairns, travelling through the states of Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, sharing with you the most beautiful, unique and awe-inspiring places to see and things to do. For the adventurous, our guide has snorkelling, scuba diving, abseiling, canyoning, sailing, cruises, scenic flights, hikes, thrill rides, skydiving and way way more for you to experience and create memories of a lifetime.

As travellers who have done the east coast, from Melbourne to Cairns with our dog Chika, we have included dog friendly attractions and activities. There is also information on dog boarding. Chika has had the best time of her life caravanning Australia with us and we have thoroughly enjoyed having her with us.

Related Read: What Does a Dog Need When Camping?

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these to make a purchase, I may earn a commission. Any commission is greatly appreciated as it helps to keep Our Wayfaring Life online.

How Much Time to Road Trip the East Coast of Australia?

How far is it from melbourne to cairns, the route – a summary, limited distances between stops, dog friendly things to do, how much to budget, what to take on an east coast road trip, 1. melbourne, 2. albury wodonga, australian capital territory, 3. canberra, new south wales, 4. jindabyne (snowy mountains), 5. bermagui, 7. wollongong, 8. blue mountains, 10. newcastle and hunter valley, 11. coffs harbour, 12. byron bay, 13. gold coast and hinterland, 14. brisbane, 15. minjerribah (north stradbroke island), 16. sunshine coast and hinterland, 17. hervey bay, 18. k’gari (fraser island), 19. bundaberg, 20. 1770 and agnes waters, 21. rockhampton, 22. airlie beach and the whitsundays, 23. townsville, 25. magnetic island, 24. mission beach, 26. atherton tablelands, 28. port douglas , where to next, recent posts.

The brief answer – allow at least six weeks. Three months is better.

Three months still does not mean lingering too long in places but will be a good balance between driving and stopping to enjoy places and sights along the way.

The direct distance from Melbourne to Cairns is 2818 kilometres via the most direct inland route. The route for our itinerary is over 4300 kilometres, not including sightseeing or driving on islands.

It would be reasonable to estimate you could do over 6000 kilometres seeing the east coast of Australia.

Notes about our Melbourne to Cairns Itinerary

The itinerary is a suggestion only. Go where you desire – it is your road trip!

dog friendly melbourne to cairns road trip

The ultimate road trip from Melbourne to Cairns starts by heading out of Melbourne up the Hume Highway to the Murray River towns of Albury Wodonga. Next, to Canberra, then onto the Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountain region. From the mountains, the route heads for the coastline at Bermagui and continues to follow the coast to Cairns. Along the way, there are detours to mountains and out to islands. In total 28 remarkable town, cities and islands have been included in our suggested route.

Of course, a road trip means doing up the miles. Also does not have to mean more driving than stopping and enjoying the places and sights on the journey. The longest drive between two stops in the suggested itinerary in this post is from Rockhampton to Airlie Beach or 483 kilometres.

As travellers with a dog, we understand and know how much effort and time goes into finding dog friendly things to do. So to help you we have added some to each place.

Also, we do not subscribe to the – if my dog cannot go, I do not go – attitude to travelling. Therefore, there are plenty of proposed activities that are not dog friendly. We aim to show a choice of things to do, pick and choose what you like.

Related Read: How to do National Parks and Travel with a Dog

If you are not travelling with a dog, our itinerary is suitable for you too.

That is a difficult question to answer. A good starting point is $1 per kilometre plus money for children, paid activities, eating out and alcohol.

The cost for Daryl, Chika and I to travel is currently $1 per kilometre; in 2021, we travelled 38,000 kilometres and spent $38000.

Some points to note before comparing your potential budget to ours:

we are two adults and a dog, no children
we paid for camping (caravan parks and paid campgrounds) only for 86 nights and free or donation camp all the other nights
we pretty much never eat out
less than $300 was on alcohol
$3500 was on car and caravan repairs and maintenance (must do when travelling full time like we are)
$3400 is how much we forked out for touristy stuff like tours, scenic flights, etc
fuel was 25% of our total spend

So much of the coast is about the water. Consider taking:

Kayak or boat
Snorkelling gear
Surfboard (if you surf)

And your sense of adventure and willingness to do and try new things. There are countless activities, experiences and attractions to see and do on a road trip from Melbourne to Cairns. Everything from hikes, canyoning, skydiving, sailing, thrill rides, scenic flights and way more. Ultimately, make memories of a lifetime.

Melbourne to Cairns | East Coast Australia Itinerary

Recommended time here | 3 – 5 days or 2 – 4 night s

Melbourne on the banks of the Yarra River is a dynamic happening city with an arts precinct, contemporary bars, cafes and restaurants, shopping and many parklands. It is a city with something for everyone.

Inner City Maze

Discover and explore as many of metropolitan Melbourne’s maze of 40 laneways. The narrow streets, accessible on foot only, are lined with intimate bars, boutique cafes, exclusive restaurants and specialty shops. Or walk through any to see fantastic street art or buskers. Each laneway has its distinct atmosphere so take the time to wander through a few. If walking with a dog, put them on a lead.

Art-fuls of Fun

ArtVo is an art gallery like no other. Life size and large scale 3D artworks and murals adorn the gallery for an unique, immersive experience where you and your family or friends put yourselves into the art and take photos. Best done with a good imagination, playfulness and a willingness to ‘act’ or pose within the scenes. Have so much fun coming face to face with wild animals, scaling enormous cliffs, putting yourself in fantasy and dream scenes and more.

Go Trendy Beachside

St Kilda is a trendy beachside suburb only six kilometres from the centre of Melbourne. Treat yourself to a mouthwatering coffee and cake from one of the patisseries on Acland Street, with many having outdoor tables where you can sit with your dog. Enjoy a stroll in the dog friendly Catani Gardens, along St Kilda Beach (dogs allowed only March to November) or the Esplanade. Visit Luna Park for nostalgic carnival rides.

The best thing to do in St Kilda is to see its Fairy Penguins return from the sea each day at sunset. For the protection of the penguins, dogs are not allowed.

Unforgettable Rock Stacks

There are any number of day trips to do from Melbourne but if you only have time for one, make it the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles. The scenic coastal drive along the GOR is breathtaking and the dramatic limestone stacks that form the icon Apostles are unforgettable.

It is a long drive, 250 kilometres each way to the Apostles, meaning it is a long day, starting early and returning late. The alternative is to stay overnight and take more time exploring the GOR.

The Twelve Apostles and other limestone formations are within the Port Campbell National Park. Dogs must remain in your car at all times, including in the car parks, weather permitting. Much of the Great Ocean Road is not a national park and is dog friendly.

Melbourne to Wodonga | 310 kilometres or 3 hours 25 minutes Recommended time here | 1 – 2 days or 1 night

By Bec Wyld from Explore Victoria Australia

Finding unique stops on your Melbourne to Cairns road trip can be difficult but look no further than Albury Wodonga, twin cities on the Murray River.

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Experience the Thrill of Watersports

Not only is Lake Hume one of the largest dams and one of the best places to visit in Victoria , but it is also ideal for watersports. You can hire a small boat and cruise the waters or hire a kayak and paddle your way around.

During the day, you will find plenty of boats out in the water with people skiing and fishing, hoping to catch some fresh dinner! Visit the weir wall and walk over it from the NSW side of the dam. At night watch the sunset over the water.

Visit Museums

The Bonegilla Migrant Museum and the nearby Bandiana Military Museum are fascinating and will keep you enthralled for hours. Alternatively or additionally, visit one of the many art galleries in both cities.

Venture Out of Town

If you can stay for a few days, venture out into the smaller regional areas. Gorgeous towns like Chiltern and Rutherglen have incredible foodie spots, wonderful historic buildings and well-known wineries like De Bortoli.

Wodonga to Canberra | 347 kilometres or 3 hours 45 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 3 days or 2 night s

By Helen Foster from Differentville

The nation’s capital has a lot of attractions and you will want to plan your time in Canberra carefully, so you do not miss out. The city divided by Lake Burley Griffin has some distinct areas. To the north is the city centre and trendy Braddon, full of bars, restaurants and shops and to the south is Parliament House and some of the country’s best museums.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Mad Paws Kiaora Park Pet Care | 0488 488 232 Pups4Fun | (02) 6287 3955 Canberra Pet Care | (02) 6298 1555 Inner South Veterinary Centre | (02) 6295 0770

Witness Democracy

A trip to Parliament House is top of most people’s list of things to do in Canberra. Book in advance for a guided tour to see the Government at work. On days the house is sitting, witness democracy as it happens and walk through one of the chambers. The gardens of Parliament House are dog friendly and lovely for a stroll.

Not To Be Missed Attractions

If you love art, a visit to the National Gallery of Australia is essential. Highlights include Yayoi Kasuma’s quirky pumpkin room and James Turrell’s immense outdoor work, Skyspace. If you’re not a museum person, at least take a wander around the pretty outdoor sculpture garden.

Kids will love a morning at the interactive science museum, Questacon, and you might also want to take a few moments to pay tribute at the Australian War Memorial.

Of course, a must visit attraction is the National Museum of Australia. With some of the best exhibitions and interactive displays, there is enough to keep anyone entertained at this museum.

Dog Friendly Canberra Attractions

Why should your dog miss out on seeing some fabulous sights around Canberra? Enjoy time and walks together:

on Mount Ainslie for sensational views over Lake Burley Griffin and Parliament House
on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin
exploring the grounds and gardens of the National Arboretum
outside the Australia War Memorial
the outside area of Parliament House

Check Out Some Excellent Breweries

At night, spend some time working your way through the products of Canberra’s many breweries like Bentspoke or Capital (both dog friendly). If you’re looking for a bar with a bit of personality, sample a glass at Smith’s Alternative with its unpretentious vibe and wooden plank seating. It is one of the more unusual places to visit in Canberra.

Canberra to Jindabyne | 178 kilometres or 2 hours Recommended time here | 1 – 2 days or 1 night

At the foothills of the Snowy Mountains and overlooking a picturesque lake, Jindabyne is surrounded by astonishing natural beauty. A summer haven and a winter wonderland, ‘Jindy’ is a small town that has something to entice visitors all year round.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Berridale Pets Holiday Lodge | ( 02) 6456 3522

A Manmade Stunner

Lake Jindabyne is a picturesque lake created in 1967 by the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electricity Authority. A hive of activity in the warmer months. The lake is a popular walking, swimming, fishing, watersport and picnic location. It is nothing to windle away many hours here and with your dog. You may even want to give disc golf a go with a course set up on the shores of the lake.

Summit Hike

Mt Kosciuszko Summit is Australia’s highest mountain at 2,228 metres above sea level. The nearly 19 kilometre return hike up the alpine mountain, covered in boulders and some snow cover all year, should be on every east coast travellers bucket list. To reach the summit and stand on it is momentous.

Mt Kosciuszko is in the Mt Kosciuszko National Park and dogs are strictly forbidden.

A Magical Drive

The Alpine Way through the Snowy Mountains is one of Australia’s most unique scenic drives and one you will not want to miss. The 110 kilometre narrow, steep road from Jindabyne to Khancoban winds its way through the Snowy Mountains past Mt Kosciuszko.

Towing a caravan is not recommended on this road. We suggest a day trip from Jindabyne to Mt Kosciuszko and walking to the summit or partway. If you drive through the national park without stopping, your dog is permitted to be in your car.

Soft Powder Buzz

In winter, Jindabyne is a buzz with endless activity, with snow lovers coming to stay in large numbers. Only 30 minutes drive from the popular ski fields of Perisher and Thredbo and offering an array of affordable snow holiday accommodation, Jindabyne’s population swells in the winter months.

If you find yourself in Jindy in the winter, go to the snowfields for some winter wonderland fun. Ski or snowboard, toboggan or build a snowman, make snow angels or sit by a fire enjoying hot chocolate, whatever is your thing, enjoy the snow.

Alternative: If you wish to give your dog a snow experience, travel to Dinner Plain near Mount Hotham in Victoria (before heading to Albury Wodonga). Dogs are welcome all year, winter when the snow falls, you and your dog can play in the now together.

Jindabyne to Bermagui | 204 kilometres or 2 hours 30 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 3 days or 2 night s

A seaside village famous for deep sea fishing and an understated, laid back feel, Bermagui is the ideal first coastal stop on your trip along the east coast of Australia.

A Sealy Swim

The bright blue of the water gives no doubt as to where Blue Pool in Bermagui gets its name. A beautiful ocean pool at the bottom of a cliff, set against a breathtaking seascape, you are going to love swimming here. If that is not enough, seals regularly play and swim in the waters adjacent to the pool and sunbake on the rocks. Also, keep a lookout for dolphins and whales in the distance during the migration season.

Blue Pool is actually two pools. The bigger of the two with its calm conditions and many sea creatures is good for learning to snorkel, something you could do a lot of as you travel from Melbourne to Cairns.

Dogs are not allowed at Blue Pool.

An Animal Formation

470 million years old, Camel Rock is a large rock formation in Bermagui. Lying at the end of Camel Rock Beach, the obviously named rock can be seen from the dog off leash area.

Camel Rock Beach has a one kilometre dog off leash area your dog will love. The beach is lovely and does get busy, but there is plenty of room for everyone. Also, if you would like to do a longer walk, the adjoining Haywards Beach allows dogs on a lead.

Offleash Ocean Views

Bermagui Point is an elevated vantage point with tall pine trees and spectacular views over the ocean. Dickinson Park on the point is a large off leash dog area, probably the best one with views! Our suggestion is to drive or walk up and take a picnic.

In 1880 gold was discovered in Bermagui and the Montreal Goldfield came to be. The goldfield has a fascinating history and each day at 2 pm guided tours inform you all about it. The informative attraction welcomes dogs on a lead and includes hands-on experience panning for gold.

Bermagui to Kiama | 259 kilometres or 2 hours 40 minutes Recommended time here | 2 -3 days or 2 night s

Kiama is idyllic and picturesque. A seaside town with beautiful coastal landscapes, beaches and a village, Kiama has many surprising things to do.

Both of Kiama’s blowholes are dog friendly. So is the harbour and many other local sights.

Related read: Dog Friendly Kiama Things To Do

Dog Sitting and Boarding See list under ‘Wollongong’

See her Blow!

The Kiama Blowhole is a famous natural landmark in the right conditions, seawater bursts through a hole, spraying it high into the air. Part of the fun is to listen for the whooping noise before she blows.

There is also a second more reliable and less known blowhole. The little blowhole is often just as impressive and because you can get onto the rocks where she blows, it can also be a lot more fun.

Photograph Wonderful Scenery

Kiama Harbour, where the main blowhole is, is wonderfully picturesque and fantastic for photos. Photograph the Historic Kiama Light, the coastal scenery and the Harbour.

Swim in an Ocean Pool

Kiama has two gorgeous ocean pools that you should absolutely check out. The Blowhole Point Rock Pool is stunning and the most natural-looking, with coastal views to the north and the south. The Continental Pool is a full-size 50m pool built on the sea’s edge with change rooms and toilets.

Kiama to Wollongong | 42 kilometres or 35 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 3 days or 2 night

Wollongong aka “The Gong” is a stretch of coastal towns between a string of golden beaches and the Illawarra escarpment. Dynamic, with a strong focus on the outdoors and events, anytime is a good time to visit Wollongong.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Petcharm Lodge | 0498 020 535 Woof Wonderland | 0459 501 439 Pet Care by Sarah | 0423 906 030

Romance on a Hill

High on a hill, Flagstaff Point Lighthouse is an active lighthouse with incredible ocean views and an air of romance, ideal for a romantic sunset picnic on a warm day. Stroll the point with your pup on a lead and buy a creamy delight from the ice cream truck. Be aware of the seagulls that will steal food given any chance.

Ride the Waves

Do you want to learn how to surf? Then why not do lessons in Wollongong with individual, group and surf camps readily available together with plenty of surf beaches to practice.

Wollongong also has several fabulous dog friendly beaches. Enjoy as many as you can and abide by the rules of each:

Wollongong Beach
Puckeys Off Leash Beach
Corrimal Beach
Woonona Beach
McCauleys Off Leash Beach
Little Austinmer Beach

For the Lovers of Music

Music lovers, Anita’s Theatre is a fabulous live music venue. The grand old theatre circa 1925, elegantly restored, has an atmosphere superb for listening to music played live. There is not a bad seat in the house and many well known Australian acts tour here.

Wollongong to Blue Mountains (Katoomba) | 148 kilometres or 2 hours Recommended time here | 2 – 4 days or 2 – 3 night s

By Holly Kent from Best of the Blue Mountains

The National Park paradise, the Blue Mountains is approximately an hour west of the CBD of Sydney and is named for its blue hue. The blue hue is the effect of the vapor emitted by the Eucalyptus prolific throughout the area.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Blue Mountains Pet Resort | 0409 985 015 Montana Lodge | 0429 404 610 All Breeds Boarding Kennels & Cattery | (02) 4578 4686 Sydney Dog and Cat Boarding | 1300 651 794

A Walk in the Blue Mountains is a Must

Covering an area over 11,000 kilometres square, this traditional land of the Dharug and Gundungurra is filled with epic landscapes, beautiful bushland and wildflowers, tumbling waterfalls and breathtaking views you’ll only reach on foot that will delight visiting hikers. For some of the best walks check out Blackheaths Grand Canyon and the waterfalls on the Valley of the Waters track in Wentworth Falls. Alternatively, there are genuine dog friendly walks in the Blue Mountains you can enjoy with your dog.

Go Back to Ancient Times

Take the drive along the Great Western Highway over the mountains, through scenic bushland and past small mountain towns to Jenolan Caves on the other side. Jenolan Caves is the oldest open cave system in the world. It also holds a special significance to the Aboriginal people. The limestone caves with breathtaking beautiful structures and features are astonishing.

See the Iconic Landmark

Visitors cannot leave the mountains without stopping in on the iconic Three Sisters at Katoomba. While most will go to Echo Point to catch their glimpse, instead go to Eagle Hawk lookout for a quieter spot and one that is dog friendly. If you visit at sunrise, you might even see the first rays of the sun hitting the valley.

The Oldest Culture on Earth

Aboriginal sites are found throughout the mountains, including rock paintings, shelters, carvings and grinding grooves. The oldest site is Kings Tableland at Wentworth Falls, dated over 20,000 years old. Here you can see an indigenous shelter, carvings, grinding grooves and the spot where the Gundungurra watched the approach of the European explorers who first crossed the mountains. Be Daring!

The Blue Mountains has hundreds of deep, narrow canyons, formed over millions of years of rivers and water carving out caverns through the sandstone. Canyoning is a thrilling adventure guarantee to get your adrenalin racing with the possibility of doing things like abseiling down waterfalls and jumping into pools. Most of all you will have the best fun ever!

Katoomba to Sydney | 102 kilometres or 1 h o ur 45 minutes Recommended time here | 3 – 7 days or 3 – 6 night s

Sydney is a city unlike any other. Its location on the beautiful harbour, sensational sunny days and unique landmarks and attractions mean coming here is a must. Australia’s busiest city and maybe overwhelming, but go with the flow and it is possible to fall in love with Sydney.

The Famous Landmarks

The Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are the city’s most famous and recognisable landmarks. It is a pleasant two kilometre walk from the Pylon Lookout at the Rocks through Circular Quay and the Opera House. Take your time, walk your dog on a lead and stop to admire views, historical buildings and the city sights.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is one of Australia’s most sort after experiences. The climb is exhilarating and the panoramic vistas at the top are impressive.

The Opera House is regularly the backdrop for Sydney festivals and events and stages performances and concerts. Tours are available or wander outside for free.

Headland or Coastal Walk

Sydney has a magnificent coastline and a great way to see it is by walking. The Rose Bay to Watson Bay, Bondi to Coogee and the Cronulla Headland Loop are three fantastic walks to choose from and to do with your dog. Find out more about these walks in our post – Fun Free Things to do in Sydney .

Cruise the Harbour

Sydney Harbour from the shore is pretty special, but it does not compare to being on it. A cruise on the harbour at sunrise, sunset or in the evening will provide an opportunity for wonderful memories and sightseeing.

Sydney to Newcastle | 163 kilometres or 2 hours 10 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 3 days or 2 night s

Newcastle, NSW’s second largest city, is a flourishing bustling hive of activity with a working harbour, fabulous beaches, attractions, places to eat and drink, shops and more. The Hunter Valley, in contrast, has an unsurpassed natural beauty of forests, lush pastures and vineyards. It is hard to believe the two are in the same district.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Newcastle Pet Resort | (02) 4920 1972 Hamilton Veterinary Clinic | 02 4969 6852

Leisurely Stroll the Foreshore

For a morning or afternoon leisurely walk, follow the path along the foreshore to the Breakwall and Nobby’s Lighthouse on Nobby Head at the mouth of the Hunter River. As you walk the 3 kilometre pathway with your dog, look out over the water for tug boats working, dolphins and sometimes whales.

Horseshoe Beach at the Breakwall is Newcastle’s only dog friendly, off leash beach. It is also great for swimming.

Swim in a Pool of Sea Water

Do you love to swim in salt water and to be gazing over the ocean but are not so much a fan of sand or rough surf waves? Swimming at one of Newcastle’s four ocean pools will be perfect for you. If you love nostalgia, Bogey Hole is the oldest ocean bath, built by convicts in 1820.

Dunes and Beach Driving

Stockton Bight Sand Dunes are the biggest shifting dunes in the southern hemisphere. The longest beach in NSW is Stockton Beach. Here, create standout experiences on your road trip:

feel the freedom of 4WD driving the dunes or along the beach
walk up a dune, and feel the thrill of sliding back down on a sandboard, wind blowing through your hair
climb to the top of a dune and watch the sunset

Hunter Valley Wine Region

The Hunter Valley is about vineyards and wine. Sure there are other things to do, really the main reason to venture out to the Hunter Valley is to for the wine.

There are a staggering number of wineries open to visitors in the Hunter. If you are travelling with your dog, why not go to one that welcomes dogs. A handful of suggestions are:

Briar Ridge Vineyard
Hanging Tree Wines
Iron Gate Estate
Oakvale Wines
Tintilla Wine Estate

Newcastle to Coffs Harbour | 385 kilometres or 4 hours Recommended time here | 2 – 3 days or 2 night s

Coffs Harbour between Sydney and Brisbane is a place of striking beauty with its sub-tropical climate, mountains and the sea. It is also a regional city with loads of attractions and free things to do .

Dog Sitting and Boarding TLC Pet Care | (02) 5642 4030 Rose Avenue Veterinary Hospital | (02) 6652 1566

An Iconic ‘Big Thing’

The Big Banana would have to be one of Australia’s most iconic “big things.” It is also a fantastic photo opportunity with your pup.

Why not have a lot of fun at The Big Banana Funpark. Get your thrills riding the toboggan, make a big splash at the water park, get a hole-in-one at mini golf or enjoy any of the many other attractions.

Sky Forest Pier

A short drive out of the city into the mountains, the Sky Forest Pier in the Bruxner Park Flora Reserve has breathtaking views out to the coastline. The reserve also has several walking tracks through the sub-tropical rainforest, which you can do with your dog.

Visit the Harbour Precinct

The Harbour Precinct in Coffs Harbour is great for wandering with your dog on a lead. Walk the Historical Pier built in 1892 and perhaps spot a dolphin, walk through the parklands and the marina to see hundreds of moored boats.

Whale Watch from the Shore

Bonville Headland at the southern end of Sawtell Beach is excellent for watching whales from the shore (July to November). Dog friendly, set up on the grass banks with your binoculars for the best viewings and watch the whales put on a show of tail slapping and breaching.

Note: As an addition to your travels from Melbourne to Cairns, you may wish to drive the beautiful Waterfall Way with your dog from Coffs Harbour to Armidale

Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay | 234 kilometres or 2 hours 30 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 7 days or 2 – 6 night s

Bryon Bay is well known and world-famous for its undeniably beautiful coastal, rural and hinterland landscapes. Spend time here exploring forests, beaches, waterfalls and iconic landmarks and see some of Australia’s most beautiful natural attractions.

It is easy to spend a fortune in Byron Bay with more and more people visiting each year. Our guide Must Do Byron Bay on a Budget will help you to keep costs down and see the best Byron has to offer.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Woof and Whiskers Pet Sitting | 0413 515 562 Paradise for Pooches | 0407 347 538

Beautiful Landscape

The Cape Byron Walking Track is something you absolutely must do when visiting Bryon Bay. The track is a 4 kilometre loop that takes in many of Byron’s most awe-inspiring beaches, lookouts, the forest landscape and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. The track is in a national park, so it is not dog friendly.

Highland Coos!

O.M.G how unbelievably adorable are highland cows? At The Farm at Byron Bay, you can get close to these friendly coos and see a working farm. Dogs are welcome on a lead and together walk the one kilometre track through the farm to the macadamia orchard where you can collect and eat them, see a variety of farm animals, vegetable crops and shop at the cafe and garden store.

Sensational Dog Friendly Beaches

Tallow Beach and Belongil Beach are fabulous dog beaches you and your dog will love. Tallow Beach at the southern end of the Arakwal National Park (read the signs), is a wide, white sandy beach with plenty of room to run and play.

Belongil Beach in town has a great vibe, especially at sunset when locals and tourists gather to enjoy the cool of the early evening. The white sand and usually calm waters are also perfect for a quick dip and a stroll.

Related read: 30 Super Dog Friendly Queensland Things To Do, Activities and Attractions

Byron Bay to Gold Coast | 94 kilometres or 1 hour 20 minutes Recommended time here | 2 – 7 days or 2 – 6 night s

By Natalie Klein from Curious Campers

The Gold Coast and the Gold Coast Hinterland is roughly the halfway point on your Melbourne to Cairns road trip and you could not get a more fun place to mark the milestone. There’s an enormous amount to do.

World Famous Beaches

Of course, the Gold Coast has some of the best known beaches in Australia. Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin and Main Beach are all great places to get some sand between your toes.

Alternatively for dog friendly beaches, head to Biggera Waters Beach, Lillson Beach, Palm Dog Beach, South Cabarita Beach, The Spit or Tallebudgera Dog Beach.

Get Your Thrills at a Theme Park

The city is also synonymous with theme parks. The young and young at heart will love visiting ‘the worlds’ – Dreamworld, Sea World, Wet & Wild and Movie World.

A Plethora of Things to Do

Some other things to put on your to do list are a kayaking and snorkelling tour around Wave Break Island. You can check out the views from the top of the SkyPoint Tower. The Gold Coast Botanic Gardens are also a beautiful spot to walk around and explore.

Spend time in Nature

Both Springbrook National Park and Tamborine Mountain are less the one hour from the Gold Coast and offer wonderful experiences. If rainforest walks and waterfall are your things, plan a day at Springbrook. Twin Falls, Purling Brook Falls and Natural Bridge and the walks through the ancient rainforests are stunning. The area is dotted with picnic grounds too.

Tamborine Mountain is a great day trip from the Gold Coast and there are several attractions all close together. The Tamborine Mountain Skywalk is a family-friendly rainforest experience, as is the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Cave. Shoppers will love walking up and down Gallery Walk’s eclectic range of shops. The small Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens is a pretty spot for lunch and a fun place to walk around.

Gold Coast to Brisbane | 78 kilometres or 1 hour Recommended time here | 3 – 5 days or 2 – 4 night s

Brisbane on the Brisbane River is known as the River City. It is also known as Brisvegas for its vibrant, remarkable and contemporary vibe, day and night.

Amazing Parklands and Gardens

Brisbane has several parklands that are perfect for exploring with your dog, especially on a warm, sunny day. Meander the wonder Brisbane City Botanical Gardens, swim at man-made Street Beach at South Bank Parklands or visit the Roma Street Parklands for a picnic. Note dogs cannot swim at Street Beach however can be in the surrounding area.

Get an Art, Culture, Science and History Fix

The South Bank cultural precinct is where you will find the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, Art Gallery and Modern Art Gallery, Performing Art Centre and State Library. There is so much to see and do here to fill in many hours. If you are comfortable doing so, there are several spots to tether your dog.

Walk the River Bank

Brisbane’s beauty as a city comes from its river and it would be a shame to miss enjoying it. The walk along the formed pathway to the cliffs of Kangaroo Point is excellent for you and your dog. You can also challenge yourself by going up the 107 cliffside steps at Kangaroo Point for amazing views.

Cruise the River for Free

If you can manage it, take a free trip on the City Hopper Ferry for a great way to experience the river. The ferry follows the same route (loop) as many paid river cruises and has an upper view decking, perfect for sightseeing. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the ferries.

There are many more free things to do in Brisbane and well worth stopping here on your trip from Melbourne to Cairns.

Travel via vehicle or passenger ferry from Cleveland Recommended time here | 3 – 5 days or 2 – 4 night s

Minjerribah is also known as North Stradbroke Island or Straddie and is the world’s second largest sand island. Unlike K’Gari the largest sand island where dogs are banned, dogs are welcome.

Minijerriah is the ideal place to visit to slow down your road trip from Melbourne to Cairns. Enjoy a relaxed, easygoing pace, pristine beaches, tidal flats, freshwater lakes and unique Australian bushland home to many koalas!

Dog Sitting and Boarding See list under ‘Brisbane’

Dog friendly North Gorge Walk, Stradbroke Island

Gorge-ous Walk

The North Gorge Walk is a leisurely 1.2 kilometre boardwalk on the Point Lookout Headland. Dog friendly, the walk meanders through bushland and has spectacular sea views. During the whale migrating season, whales are often spotted and sometimes even sea turtles.

Island Beaches

Think island, think beaches. Straddie has its share of immaculate white sandy beaches with crystal clear water. The dog friendly beaches are Main Beach, Flinders Beach, Deadman’s Beach and Frenchman’s Beach.

Meet Flipper

The waters at Amity Point Jetty are perfect for snorkelling, kayaking and swimming. Here you can see sea turtles and dolphins for free. The dolphins visit the jetty most days at dawn and dusk and it is truly one of the best experiences on this east coast road trip. It is as good as or better than that on Tangalooma (these are the same dolphins) or Monkey Mia where you have to pay.

Much of Amity Point is dog friendly. Keep your dog away from wildlife and read the signs.

Cuddly Wildlife

Minjerribah has koalas! and is the optimal place for seeing them in the wild. Living throughout the island always keep a keen eye open to spy one up in a tree, especially at Amity Point and Dunwich Historical Cemetery.

Brisbane to Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) | 113 kilometres or 1 hour 25 minutes Recommended time here | 3 – 5 days or 2 – 4 night s

By Peta and Jonas from Exit45 Travels

Just a short 35 minute drive from the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast is the Sunshine Coast Hinterland . Many small townships dotted among the mountains, lakes, waterfalls and forests, offering something a little different for visitors to the area.

There are so many things to see and do in this region, spoiling for choice! Unique art galleries, markets, hiking trails and waterfalls to quirky cafes, heritage pubs, wineries and craft breweries, there is something to suit every traveller.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Eumundi Pet Resort | (07) 5442 8275 b’ARK Pet Retreat Amamoor | (07) 5371 7627 Aunty Dy’s Poochie Paradise | 0423 194 384 Yandina Hound Hotel | (07) 5446 8223

Charming Country Towns

Along the top of the Blackall Range are the charming towns of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton and the most popular area for day visitors and holidaymakers. It is easy to spend a weekend exploring these cute towns.

In Maleny, walk through the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and take in the scenic views of the Glasshouse Mountains. Dogs are not allowed due to the native animals like the Pademelons making the reserve their home.

Wander along the main street of Montville and see why it is said to be the creative heart of the Sunshine Coast. If you enjoy art, visit the Montville Art Gallery, which showcases an extensive range of art by local artisans. You will also find spectacular views over the beaches of the Sunshine Coast. The highlight in Mapleton is viewing the stunning Mapleton Falls in Mapleton Falls National Park.

Noosa the Sunshine Coast gem location. If you can, you really should visit Noosa National Park and the Noosa everglades.

The top things to do with your dog in Noosa is walk the famous Hasting Street and grab yourself a gelato, check out the stunning dog friendly Sunshine Beach and hang out on the foreshore of the Noosa River. A Noosa Ferry is also a great way to enjoy the river with dogs permitted if they can sit on your lap.

Famous Markets

Eumundi is famous for its market held every Wednesday and Saturday. With over 500 stalls, you are sure to find something to buy such as artwork, fashion and jewellery, or eat your way around the markets sampling tasty handmade goodies. Dogs are welcome to stroll with you on a lead.

Australia’s Best Zoo

Beerwah is the home of Australia Zoo made famous by Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter. Interact and learn about Australian and other animals through displays and exhibitions. Australia Zoo is a must see on the Sunshine Coast.

Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay | 194 kilometres or 2 hours 20 minutes Recommended time here | 1 – 2 days or 1 night or 3 – 6 nights if also visiting K’Gari

Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast in Queensland is the gateway to K’Gari (Fraser Island). It is also known for its calm, protected waters between the Hervey Bay coastline and K’Gari.

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Witness Majesty

The calm waters off Hervey Bay are a nursery for migrating humpback whales (July to November), making it ideal for seeing them in all their majesty from a whale-watching cruise. Imagine the joy of seeing a mother with her baby. The bay is also home to dolphins.

Stroll a Pier or Esplanade

Urangan Pier is nearly one kilometre, perfect for an afternoon stroll or fishing. Sadly, the pier is not dog friendly. The Urangan foreshore, the beaches on either side of the pier and the beachside esplanade from Urangan to Point Vernon allow dogs.

No Waves No Worries

The incredibly calm waters in Hervey Bay are perfect for water activities like swimming, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and SUP. Make the most of it with Dundowran, Serenia Beach at Burrum Heads, Toogoom, Urangan, Vernon, Woodgate (North) beaches all being dog friendly.

Travel via vehicle ferry from River Heads Recommended time here | 3 – 5 days or 2 – 4 night s

K’Gari (previously known as Fraser Island) is the world’s largest sand island at 123 kilometres long. On the Fraser Coast of Queensland, the world heritage-listed island is a magical place of the clearest freshwater lakes you will ever visit, rainforest and so much more. Of course, the dingo lives here.

Dogs are not permitted on K’Gari and a 4WD is a must.

Dog Sitting and Boarding See list under ‘Hervey Bay’

Clearest Water Ever

Lake McKenzie is K’Gari’s number one tourist spot and no wonder. Crystal clear water with the clarity of glass and white sand, the lake stunningly beautiful. The unbelievable water remains at about 25 degrees all year round, perfect for swimming. Any trip to Fraser Island must include Lake McKenzie.

Bubbles of Fun

Experience the fun of swimming in amongst thousands of bubbles at the Champagne Pools. The ocean pools get their name from the bubbles that form when the waves break over the rock walls. A K’Gari highlight is well worth the long drive and 10 minute walk. A magical place best visited a couple of hours before high tide.

Beached Boat

The SS. Maheno was washed ashore on K’Gari by a cyclone in 1935. The ocean liner shipwrecked is now one of the island’s most iconic and intriguing sights to see. The sheer size of the shipwreck is something to behold. To know more about the ship’s history and story, visit the Happy Valley Hotel or Happy Valley Cafe.

Peaceful Swim

Smaller but no less beautiful with its unreal blue water and stunning white sand, Lake Birrabeen is a great alternative to Lake McKenzie. Attracting fewer people, Lake Birrabeen is a peaceful, relaxing place to swim and hang out.

Hervey Bay to Bundaberg | 110 kilometres or 1 hour 20 minutes Recommended time here | 1 – 2 days or 1 night

By Lanie van der Horst from Lets Make More Adventures

Surrounded by sugar cane fields, Bundaberg is best known for its rum. Less known about the town is the Great Barrier Reef lies off its shores and it is a nesting area for sea turtles.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Four Way Kennels | (07) 4159 7973

Bundaberg Rum Distillery

The Bundaberg Rum Distillery, established in the late 1800s, is worth visiting and joining a guided tour. It is best to arrive early to do a self-guided tour through the Distillery Museum before the guided tour.

Guided tours include a tasting at the end for the adults. The tasting for adults can choose one rum and one liqueur, served neat, on the rocks, or with a mixer. Kids get to have a Bundaberg soft drink, such as ginger beer or lemonade.

Alternatively, for rum lovers and the adventurous, consider doing the Blend Your Own Rum class and make a rum with your signature flavour. Everyone who joins the rum blending class takes home two bottles of their creation. Additional bottles can be purchased at any time in the future if required.

Bundaberg Barrel

Bundaberg Barrel is all about the soft drinks made by the Bundaberg co. Guided tastings and self-guided tours are available. Sample as many or as few of Bundaberg’s soda flavours as you like while the bartender talks about each flavour.

After the tasting, groups continue with the self-guided tour. Guess soda flavours from the smell, watch an assembly line, and learn about the soda making and bottling process.

Mons Repo Turtle Centre

Located in nearby Bagara is the Mons Repo Turtle Centre, home to many Loggerhead Turtles. Did you know that the female turtles born near Mons Repo return 30 years later to nest, after swimming to South America and back?

Learn about these gentle sea turtles by doing a tour. Tours at the centre are available and include a hands-on research centre, a video, and a presentation. And from November-March, night-time turtle experience tours are available. Highly recommended, tour participants can catch a glimpse of the turtle egg-laying or hatching process on this fascinating tour.

Bundaberg to 1770 | 129 kilometres or 1 hour 30 minutes

By Victoria Heinz from Guide Your Travel

Agnes Water is a small beach town located in Queensland, around 500 kilometres north of Brisbane. The settlement of Seventeen Seventy lies at the tip of the peninsula and is supposedly where Captain Cook arrived in Australia in the year 1770. Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy are must-see places on your road trip from Melbourne to Cairns for several reasons.

Postcard Beaches

Anges Waters has some of the east coast best beaches . The beaches here are beautiful with stunning crystal-clear water and great opportunities for water sports. One side of the peninsula is perfect for surfing and the other faces a shallow lagoon with lots of sandbanks, fantastic for kayaking and paddleboarding or just relaxing in the sand.

Dog friendly beaches in Anges Water:

Chinamans Beach
Springs Beach
Workman’s Beach
1770 foreshore

Doorstep to Island Paradise

One of the best things to do in Agnes Water is to explore the nearby islands and the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. Several tours will help you explore the best of Anges Waters, including one that will fly you out to camp on a deserted island. A more affordable option is a trip on the Amphibious Lark boat for some land and water fun. Save even more money by renting a kayak and paddling around the beautiful sandbanks.

Hike a Paperbark Forest

Another great activity in Agnes Water is a trip to the Paperbark Forest. A short hiking trail through an incredible forest unique to this area. It is the perfect afternoon activity and a great place to take photos.

Alternatively, Anges Waters has a couple of dog friendly walks:

The Discovery Trail | A stunning bushwalk to a lookout, past beaches
Chinaman’s Beach Trail | Picnic, fish and walk on this trail with your pup.

1770 to Rockhampton | 233 kilometres or 2 hours 35 minutes Recommended time here | 1 – 2 days or 1 night

Rockhampton aka “Rocky” on the banks of the Fitzroy River is an important regional hub of shops and services in Queensland. It is also a place of surprises with more to see and do than you will expect – Top 11 Things to do in Rockhampton.

Rockhampton is also the eastern end of the Capricorn Highway which travels west. If you seek something truly different to do and can afford the additional time, take the 3 hours to drive each way to Emerald and try fossicking in the Gemfields in Queensland.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Cawarral Boarding Kennels & Cattery | (07) 4934 4377

Relax in Magnificent Gardens

Kershaw Gardens is outstanding and for everyone, including your four legged friend. Superb gardens and parklands with walking tracks, sheltered picnic tables, electric BBQs, playgrounds and a dog off leash area. For somewhere chill, take a relaxing stroll and enjoy a BBQ or picnic lunch, visit Kershaw Gardens in Rockhampton.

Meander the Riverfront

Quay Street in Rockhampton follows the Fitzroy River and has an intriguing historical walk. See the heritage-listed wrought iron and sandstone buildings enrich the town’s streetscape. Between January and March, 5 minutes drive along Quay Street are fields of sunflowers in bloom. Have you ever walked among flowers that stand taller than you and are sometimes larger than your head? The sunflowers at the farm in Alton Downs are grown and sold by a local farmer to raise money for cancer and are a sight to see.

Capricorn Caves

Capricorn Caves are 400 million years in the making. The above-ground limestone caves are open, with various tours running most days of the year. Explore the incredible passageways and chambers of the caves. Knowledgeable guides will tell you a lot of interesting facts and history about the caves.

Great Keppel Island

Great Keppel Island welcomes dogs and is brilliant for a day trip. Catch one of the two passenger ferries over (no cars allowed) and plan a day in paradise bushwalking, swimming and fun.

Rockhampton to Airlie Beach | 483 kilometres or 5 hours 30 minutes

East coast beaches of Australia are known worldwide for their stunning beauty. Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays raise the bar to a whole new level. This region is paradise.

Unfortunately, the Whitsundays region is not dog friendly. There are no island resorts that welcome dogs. Unless you are willing to use a pet sitter, you will be limited in what you can do.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Whitsunday Pet Resort | (07) 4946 1077 Nurse Jodie’s Pet Services | 0401 233 236

Walk Your Dog in Paradise

Something you can do with your dog is the scenic Bicentennicial Walkway in Airlie Beach. The pathways and boardwalks track along the breathtaking waterfront and has several shops to browse and cafes. The walkway is a lovely way to see the township of Airlie beach with your dog.

Go Where the Wind Takes You

The Whitsundays is a sailing paradise with sensational blue clear waters and tropical islands. Whether it is a day trip or multiple nights, sailing in the Whitsundays is one of those Big Ticket Items in Australia that will stay with you forever and create memories for a lifetime.

See the Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonderland like no other place on earth. Colourful corals and fish, amazing sealife of reef sharks, sea turtles, dolphins and rays adorn the waters in abundance. The best way to see the reef and the life that lives there is snorkelling, scuba diving or a glass bottom boat with a tour company.

Take to the Air

To take in the beauty and spectacular seascape of the Whitsundays, treat yourself to a scenic flight. Fly over the aquamarine ocean, tropical islands and stunning white beaches and be awestruck by the natural beauty. The Whitsundays is a picture postcard location and yet the photos are nothing to seeing it for yourself.

Airlie Beach to Townsville | 274 kilometres or 3 hours 20 minutes

Townsville is Queensland’s largest regional city and a vital hub for many the remote northern areas. A vibrant, coastal city, Townsville is a must stop as you continue your journey towards Cairns.

Dog Sitting and Boarding Dogtopia Retreat | (07) 4426 7656 House of Pawz | (07) 4740 4558 Fur Mum Pet Care | 0404 627 406 Beaches Pet Resort | (07) 4778 6633

A Foreshore Beauty

The Strand is a hugely popular seaside foreshore walkway lined with tropical palms. Wander the pathway for views to Magnetic Island and the bay or stop for ice cream, grab a coffee or eat at one of the many cafes. The vibrant, attractive foreshore also has art installations, grass areas and tables suitable for picnics. The walkway is dog friendly, however, the rockpool and beach are not.

A dominant feature of Townsville is the rockface known as Castle Rock. Either walk or drive to the summit for 360-degree views of the city and sea. The hike up the hill is steep, with many steps and partly along the roadway.

There are many times to visit Castle Rock. Go at sunrise, sunset or a night for unbelievable views of the city lights. Several vantage points are on the summit so allow about an hour to have a good look. Dogs are permitted and there is plenty of parking.

Memorial with Sea Views

The fortification and boardwalk at Jezzine Barracks, Kissing Point is a memorial and monument to the sacrifice and bravery of WW2 and the battle of the Coral Sea. A beautiful landscape with grassed areas suitable for picnics and lazing about in the sunshine as well as uninterrupted views out to Magnetic Island, Kissing Point is a Townsville treasure.

Kissing Point is easy to find, as it continues from the Strand and is dog friendly.

Riverside Garden

A botanical garden on the banks of the river, the Palmetum is a stunning place to explore and walk with your dog, especially along the river. Enjoy the serenity and the manicured gardens before finishing at the cafe for a coffee or lunch.

Enjoy the Serenity

Little Crystal Creek is at the entrance of the Paluma National Park, near Innisfail is a 57 kilometre drive from Townsville. With a historic arch stone bridge surrounded by lush rainforest, a crystal clear creek and swimming holes the beauty is truly breathtaking. There is a 100m walk downstairs and boulder hopping to the falls and swimming holes. The water is also freezing and refreshing for those brave enough to get in.

As it is a national park, dogs are not allowed.

All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Overland Itineraries

East coast australia road trip itinerary and ultimate guide.

Show-stopping beaches, charismatic little towns, eden-like national parks and unforgettable adrenalin filled activities mean it’s no wonder why the east coast of Australia is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.

And it’s all relatively easy to explore; you just need a vehicle or a coach pass, a chunk of time (I’d recommend 6-8 weeks if you really want to see everything, or 4 weeks if you’re just after the highlights), sufficient funds and a sense of adventure!

This east coast Australia road trip itinerary will take you from just above the tropical city of Cairns, to hidden gems such as Mission Beach and Innisfail, through world famous sites like Magnetic Island and the Whitsundays, down through little surf towns and some of the best diving sites on the east coast to the bucket-list destination of Fraser Island, through south Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and its capital, Brisbane.

It will then traverse the Brisbane to Sydney drive, through the backpacker haven of the Gold Coast, then to northern New South Wales, an area that includes Byron Bay (one of my favorite places in the world) and its surrounding quirky towns and beautiful hinterland.

The route then follows the Pacific Coast Highway and travels through various beautiful New South Wales coastal towns before arriving at Sydney.

From Sydney, the east coast Australia road trip is directed to Melbourne via the coastal route, where the road calls at various other New South Wales and Victorian towns, national parks, and even an island before finishing in the state capital of Victoria; the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne.

It’s a long way, it will take you through a range of different climates and cultures, through tiny in-the-middle-of-nowhere towns to backpacker hubs and bustling cities, and will span some of the most gorgeous beaches on the planet as well as breathtaking inland natural scenery nearly every step of the way.

Are you ready for the ultimate east coast Australia road trip itinerary? This route is completely customisable to your wishes and needs. It could be done in reverse, or in chunks – if you’re flying into a different city, you might want to start elsewhere.

There are international airports in Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne and the Gold Coast on this route – check out this Gold Coast airport review to learn about this point of entry to the east coast of Australia.

If you’re not doing the whole Cairns to Melbourne drive, use this nifty table of contents to take you to just the part of the road trip that you want to go on.

Organise your vehicle for your East Coast Australia Road Trip

I traveled all over Australia in my trusty Subaru Forester, and I’d highly recommend to anyone to make this odyssey in your own (or rented) vehicle.

Not only does your own car or van give you the freedom to travel at your own pace, editing your itinerary if you want to stay longer or shorter somewhere, it often works out cheaper, because you can split fuel costs with friends and stay at free campsites.

I had my own car for this trip and all of my Aussie road trips, and if you are planning on traveling more than just the east coast (which you should, as the rest of the country is spectacular) then I’d recommend you buy a car of your own.

But if this road trip is a one-off or you don’t want the hassle and commitment of buying a car, renting is also an option.

I haven’t used any of these myself, but some popular companies are:

Jucy campers
Wicked Campers

If you’re planning on drinking 24/7 or just don’t fancy driving all of that way then taking the coach is probably the best bet for you.

Greyhound and Premier both plough the east coast daily – Greyhound is known for having better facilities, offering free (temperamental) wifi, power sockets, and comfier seats – but Premier is slightly cheaper.

Greyhound’s southern service from Sydney goes inland and pretty much straight to Melbourne via Canberra, but Premier follows closely to the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive I have suggested.

Once you get to Eden, which is right near the New South Wales/ Victoria border, V Line will get you through eastern Victoria and into Melbourne.

Once you’ve sorted your car, van or coach pass out, you’re ready to hit the road!

Do you want some more information about transport in Australia, where to stay, and what to eat in the land down under? Check out this Australia travel guide for some really helpful information.

When to Go On the East Coast Australia Road Trip

This East Coast Australia road trip itinerary begins in Cairns and travels south to Melbourne.

This is a great way to do your trip if you’re traveling in Australia’s autumn, as Victoria takes a while to heat up!

The reverse is true if you’re journeying in the spring.

If you’re road tripping in winter, brace yourself for cold temperatures in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Queensland but look forward to near-perfect weather in Central and North Queensland.

In the summer, you’ll be sweltering everywhere – but watch out for tropical storms and seriously hot temperatures in the North, and make sure you wear stinger suits everywhere that they’re recommended.

Where to stay on the East Coast of Australia – hostels or camping?

Nowhere quite does hostels like the East Coast of Australia – and I’m pretty sure that no hostels are quite as expensive as the East Coast of Australia.

You’ll make some great friends in the East Coast’s hostels and it would be a shame to miss them out completely, as they are a part of the coast’s backpacking experience.

But you may have to declare bankruptcy if you stay at all of them.

That’s why I’ve recommended selected hostels in some of the tourist hotspots, that I’ve either stayed at personally or that have come highly recommended by fellow travelers.

In all the gaps where hostels haven’t been mentioned, there are plenty of free camping options – which are perfect if you have your own vehicle.

If you’re intrigued about free camping in Australia and want to find out more, click on the below link.

If not, there are plenty of hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels in most of the tourist spots on your East Coast Australia road trip.

Cairns to Brisbane Drive Itinerary

Perhaps the most iconic road trip in all of Australia, the Cairns to Brisbane drive odyssey spans over 1700 kilometres, through countless national parks, beside hundreds of postcard-perfect beaches and a huge reef and takes you from the tropics to the subtropics.

There are so many reasons why the Cairns to Brisbane road trip is a world-famous travel journey; and this itinerary takes you through all of the best!

Suggested time frame – 3-4 days

Cairns is a backpacker hotspot, with many travellers to Australia beginning their trips here – which makes it the perfect place to start your Cairns to Brisbane drive.

The tropical city is a great place to accustom to Australian lifestyle and a few days can easily be passed chilling by the lagoon, dining at the many cafes and restaurants of the city and enjoying its nightlife scene.

However, amidst all of this hardcore relaxing, do save some time to venture to the outstandingly beautiful areas around the city.

Things to do in Cairns

Cool down with a dip in the lagoon
Dine and drink at the many establishments in the city
Do a free fitness class on the esplanade
Go on a tour of the Atherton Tablelands This area is a fantastic day trip from Cairns (although longer can be easily spent in the region) and includes gorgeous waterfalls , scenic lakes, outstanding lookouts and quirky towns. Take a self-drive trip or book a day tour.
Do a Great Barrier Reef tour I went with Ocean Freedom, who are fantastic for first time divers. People who are not certified (I was one of the only two on my boat who were!) have the chance to dive with an instructor after a safety briefing. It’s a great chance for anyone who’s thinking about learning to dive but is unsure if it’s for them. If you are certified, you’ll likely get the chance to go an a semi-private dive – I got whisked away on a speedboat for my second dive which was just me and the instructor.

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Where to stay in cairns.

Which hostel to pick in Cairns largely depends on how much you want to party. Cairns City Backpackers is pretty chilled out, with a BYO alcohol policy and quiet time late at night. It’s set in tranquil, rainforest-like setting and is a bargain price for a smaller dorm room. Click here for more information and to book .

If you do want to party, then there’s only one real option; the infamous Gilligans. Some people love it, some people hate it, but it’s without a doubt one of the busiest, loudest and most raucous hostel in Cairns.

It’s spread out over four levels, with amazing facilities such as free airport pick up, free WiFi and a lagoon swimming pool, and has an entertainment venue with bars and clubs within the hostel. They also offer cheap dorm rates and $5 dinners with free drinks. Click here for more information and to book .

There aren’t any free camping options within the city itself, but some in the local area. There are also a few paid campsites in and around the city. Drive north to Daintree National Park – 1 hour OR take a tour from Cairns

The Daintree Rainforest

Suggested time – 1-2 days

The Daintree can be done in a day trip from Cairns, but I think it’s worthy of a section all of its own. It’s a huge national park north of the city, with a tarmac road driving straight through the thick of the rainforest; and every so often, you’ll get a glimpse of the sea, which the road runs directly parallel to.

This is exactly why the ‘rainforest meets reef’ slogan of Far North Queensland was invented. There are short walks, cultural experiences, croc spotting cruises and four wheel drive tracks to be enjoyed within the breathtaking national park.

Things to do in the Daintree National Park

Hike through the rainforest and around the beautiful Mossman Gorge
Explore the Daintree tea plantation
Have a picnic overlooking the beautiful Cow Bay
Walk through the jungle at the Jindalba Boardwalk, Dubuji Boardwalk and Kulki Boardwalk
Take on the challenging Mount Sorrow hike
Enjoy the ‘reef meets rainforest’ vistas of Cape Tribulation beach
Go croc spotting at Daintree River
Check out the gorgeous Emmagen Creek at the start of the Bloomfield Track
If you have a 4WD vehicle, drive the Bloomfield Track; an unsealed road heading north to Cooktown

Daintree National Park Tours

Don’t have your own vehicle? There’s plenty of tours from Cairns to the Daintree National Park.

From Daintree National Park, drive 23 minutes/ 23.5 km south to Port Douglas. If you are on a tour, some also stop in Port Douglas.

Port Douglas

Between Cairns and Daintree National Park is Port Douglas, a hip town which has luxury restaurants, quirky cafes and a busy backpacker scene.

It’s a fun place to pop in for an afternoon or spend a couple of days in; depending on how much time you have! I know a few people who have lived and worked in the town as well.

Things to do in Port Douglas

Browse the beachside Sunday markets for tasty food and arty souvenirs
Drive or hike up to the top of Flagstaff Hill for a spectacular lookout over the town and four mile beach
Sample coffee at the various cafes of the town
Laze back on the gorgeous four mile beach

Where to stay in Port Douglas

If you’re after a bustling backpacker scene, Dougies is located just 300 metres from the beach and is fully equipped with everything you could want in a hostel in the tropics; an outdoor pool and barbecue, a bar and free parking. Choose from a 4 or 7 bed dorm or a private room and bathroom.

For rates and to book, click here . From Port Douglas, drive south back through Cairns, which takes 1 hour 5 minutes. Or return to Cairns on your tour!

The Port Douglas to Cairns drive is known as ‘Far North Queensland’s Great Ocean Road’ and the views of vibrant green rainforest bordering onto turquoise blue ocean are nothing short of spectacular. It’s one of my favourite drives in Australia (and I’ve drove around nearly all of it!) so take your time and stop off at as many viewpoints as possible. Either stay another night in Cairns, or begin your journey south to Innisfail and Mission Beach

Drive or catch a coach from Cairns to Innisfail, which is a distance of 88 kilometres and takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested time – 1 day

Known by many to be ‘the place where everyone does farm work’, many road trippers whizz past Innisfail. But there’s lots to do in and around the town to pass a day or more; so if you have time on your East Coast Australia itinerary, be sure to check this beautiful town out!

Things to do in Innisfail

Check out Josephine Falls, located between Cairns and Innisfail
Stroll around the town and enjoy the art deco architecture, which has bene in place since 1918
Sunbathe on the gorgeous sands of Etty Bay – and watch out for cassowaries!
Explore the rainforest from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk

Drive or take the coach from Innisfail to Mission Beach, which takes 40 minutes and is 52 kilometres in distance.

Mission Beach

Suggested time – 2-3 days

Mission Beach isn’t on every Tropical North Queensland itinerary, but it damn well should be – it’s one of my favourite parts of the east coast. The beaches here are absolutely mesmerising – when I walked down to my first I actually let out a little yelp of joy.

There’s a variety of walking trails through the rainforest region, opportunities to spot cassowaries (we didn’t see any, boo), some absolutely delightful cafes and restaurants, and, as the name suggests, kilometre after kilometre of gorgeous beachfront.

If I could get an ‘I HEART MISSION BEACH’ t-shirt, I would.

Things to do in Mission Beach

Hike up to Bicton Hill for a stunning view
Laze on 14 kilometres of beaches – but remember to use the stinger nets from October to May!
Eat at the quirky Bingil Bay Café
Take a water taxi to Dunk Island and do some of the walk tracks and marvel at the beaches there
Go scuba diving – the Great Barrier Reef stretches along most of Tropical North Queensland including all of Mission Beach

Accommodation in Mission Beach

If you’re looking for accomodation to relax and unwind in for a few days, Jackaroo Hostel is just the place. The treehouse-style hostel is set in beautiful grounds with a spectacular view, and just being there basically screams zen. Choose from a 6 bed dorm room or a private double room, all which come with included breakfast. For rates and to book, click here . Drive south 2 hours 48 minutes, which is 235 kilometres, or take the coach to Townsville.

On the Bruce Highway, I’d recommend taking a pit stop at the Frosty Mango restaurant, an eatery that serves all things mango, including delicious dairy-free ice cream. There’s also a huge mango outside (if you don’t know already, Australia loves its huge things) to snap a picture with!

Suggested time – 2 days

Townsville, ‘the capital of Northern Queensland’ is the gateway to Magnetic Island.

But there’s plenty within Townsville to occupy a day or two too, so before you hop over to the paradise that is Maggie Island, take some time to explore what Tropical North Queensland’s largest city has to offer.

Things to do in Townsville

Learn about wildlife in Tropical North Queensland, the history of scuba diving, ancient shipwrecks and more at the Museum of North Queensland
Learn about the region’s history at the Herbert River Museum
Visit the historic Old Brandon Church
Enjoy the bars and restaurants of the city
Walk around the picturesque marina

Accommodation in Townsville

Rambutan YHA is a popular backpacker hangout, located in the centre of the city. It doesn’t cut any corners, with facilties such as a rooftop pool, outdoor bar and restaurant and $10 dinner specials. Choose from a 5, 6 or 8 bed dorm or private rooms in different sizes.

Click here for rates and to book .

Take the ferry over to Magnetic Island, which is a 20 minute journey, costing around $19 per person.

Magnetic Island

A pure slice of paradise, Magnetic Island is worlds away from the city of Townsville.

The entire island seems to run at its own time, with a chilled-out pace that it seems you could only find within a certain number of degrees to the equator.

On Magnetic Island, there are historical walks, climbs to hidden beaches, snorkelling, safe swimming spots, and amazing sunset viewing areas… or there’s the chance to get very merry on cocktails and general island life and spend the day lazing in a hammock. The choice is yours.

Things to do on Magnetic Island

Take the forts walk to learn about the wartime history of the island and spot koalas
Go snorkelling at Geoffery Bay – you can pick up a self guided snorkelling tour from the visitors centre for $5
Hike to Balding Bay (which is Maggie’s unofficial nudist beach, FYI) or Radical Bay, both beautiful spots that are much quieter than the main beach!
Go for a dip in Nelly Bay’s stinger net
Discover more of the island’s history at the Magnetic Island History and Crafts Centre
Catch an amazing sunset at one of the many spots around the island

Where to stay on Magnetic Island

The home of Australia’s only full moon party, Base Backpackers is set in stunning surroundings and enjoys a bar, BBQ facilities and a swimming pool. The bar hosts themed nights and activities.

For rates and to book, click here .

From Magnetic Island, take the ferry back over to Townsville and start heading south. Drive from Townsville to Bowen, which is around 2 hour 20 minutes and 202 kilometres, or take a southbound bus.

Suggested time – stopover/ half a day

Although some people stop to do their farm work in Bowen, for many it’s not really much more than a quick pit stop. But the laid back town vibes, beautiful beaches and hikes to impressive lookouts do make it a worthwhile stopover on a southern drive!

Things to do in Bowen

Check out some of the eight amazing beaches that make up the area around Bowen
Learn about the tropical town at the Bowen Historical Musuem
Take a ferry over to Stone Island
Check out Horseshoe Bay from the Rotary Lookout
Snap a photo with yet another big mango!

Drive from Bowen to Airlie Beach, which is about 77 kilometres and takes around 58 minutes, or hop on a coach.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is somewhere you’ll constantly hear about as you’re travelling down the East Coast of Australia – and it is definitely a backpacker hub.

The town is catered for tourists, but if you’re looking for somewhere for a cheap dinner, a couple (dozen, maybe) beers and to meet some new travel mates, Airlie is your go to. Most people who are at Airlie Beach are coming off a Whitsundays tour, or about to get onto a boat. But there are a few things to do in the town itself.

Things to do in Airlie Beach

Take a dip in the refreshing Airlie Beach Lagoon
Browse the markets, which are held every Saturday
Check out the gorgeous Cedar Creek Falls, located en route to Proserpine
Visit the rainforest Conway National Park and go hiking

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

Nomads pretty much dominates the backpacker accommodation in Airlie Beach, and it’s easy to see why. The establishment is half hostel half campsite, with options for any type of backpacker.

The entire hostel is al-fresco based and as well as the standard amenities (kitchen, laundry, chill out area etc), it enjoys two bars, a swimming pool and free wifi. For rates and to book, click here .

The Whitsunday Islands

Suggested time – 3 days

The Whitsunday Islands are one of the ‘must see’ Australian odysseys that make the east coast famous. It’s vital to include visiting the islands in your east coast Australia road trip itinerary, and I’d advise doing the full 3 day 2 night tour to get the full experience.

I went with Wings , who offer a chilled out, sociable atmosphere with stop offs to all of the most beautiful spots of the islands. Also included was:

SO MUCH FOOD including buffet-style meals, snacks every time any of us got a twinge of hunger, and tea and coffee. They catered for dietary preferences really well and even let the special diets have first choice, which gave me yet another reason to love vegetarianism!
A shared cabin-style dorm – I slept in a little cubby hole, but it was pretty cosy!
All the snorkelling gear and four stops to see some of the best marine life in the area
A guided walk to Whitehaven Beach and to a look out
Slideshows of photos in the evening
Friendly, knowledgeable staff

Alcohol was brought on a BYO term. The boat isn’t an in-your-face party kind of boat, but a few of us got very merry on beer/ goon in the evenings.

If you want an in-your-face party style boat, I’d go with Clipper .

This isn’t the boat to choose if you want a good night’s sleep – but it’s hugely popular with travellers on the east coast! (it does also have a huge inflatable slide which looks awesome).

And if you’re looking for a bit more luxury, Ride to Paradise offers the same style tour, but instead of the boat, stays in luxury accommodation. There are dozens more Whitsundays tours, so if none of those take your fancy don’t fret – you’ll almost certainly find a great tour for you.

Whitsundays Tours

Your Whitsundays boat tour will take you back to Airlie Beach. Spend another night there, if you wish (there will most likely be an after party!), or head straight back to the road. Coaches leave Airlie Beach to Mackay, or drive the distance – just under 2 hours and 150 kilometres.

I had a fantastic time in Mackay, although I didn’t do much other than get a subway (a sandwich, not an underground train). I’ve never felt so immediately welcomed into a city – at first, I thought everyone knew each other, but when they all greeted me with equal cordiality, I realised that people in Mackay are actually just that friendly.

Mackay is a launching point for the southern Great Barrier Reef and is home to some fantastic parks to the north and the west.

Within the town, there are lookouts, great food, lagoons and cycling trails. It’s a tropical city that’s worth a spot on your East Coast Australia itinerary.

Things to do in Mackay

Cycle on the Bluewater Trail
Take a dip in the Bluewater Lagoon
Visit Lambert’s Lookout for a Pacific view
Explore a sugar cane mill
Camp with kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough
Go hiking and platypus spotting at rainforest-based Eungella National Park

Take a coach or drive the distance to Rockhampton, which is 3 hours 40 minutes and 336 kilometres.

Rockhampton

Suggested time – 1 day When I told a few people I was adding Rockhampton to my east coast Australia road trip itinerary, they laughed and said there was nothing there. I then looked up the best things to do in Rockhampton – and discovered that 5/9 revolved around the beef industry – not exactly a vegetarian’s dream. But, dig a little deeper and there’s some great things to do in Rocky that don’t involve meat of any kind.

Things to do in Rockhampton

Visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre which tells significant stories of the state and country’s Aboriginal population and their Dreamtime stories which is the basis for their culture
Catch the sunset over Mount Archer
Cross over the tropics at the Tropic of Capricorn Spire
Explore Quay Street and marvel at the historic, opulent buildings
Admire the works at the Rockhampton Art Gallery

Take a coach to Agnes Water, or drive the 2 hour 30 minutes, 225 kilometre journey.

Agnes Water/ 1770

A lot of people just stop in Agnes Water for a break up between the long bus between Airlie Beach and Rainbow Beach (although hopefully I’ve convinced you to make a few extra stops along the way too!).

But the surf town is a cool place to hang out for a few days. If you aren’t pushed for time on your Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary, take the chance to kick back on the beach for a few.

Things to do in Agnes Water/ 1770

Take a surf lesson for either $17.70 or $25 (I chose the $25 option, which is allegedly better – saying that, I chose it because it was the only one running in the afternoon. But I definitely felt like I got more than my money’s worth).
Do the Scooteroo tour – the tour takes you around the twin towns on scooters that are made out to look like huge badass motorbikes. I didn’t do it, but it looks like a lot of fun!
Check out some of the local national parks, such as Eurimbula, which has breathtaking coastline, 4WD tracks and scenic sunset spots.

Tours Around Agnes Water

Where to stay in agnes water/ 1770.

Southern Cross Backpackers is a super chilled out hostel with a variety of accommodation options – there’s a campsite that you can drive onto, or dorms.

Set in beautiful subtropical grounds, the hostel has a pool and a great chill out/ bar area. But the best thing about this hostel is that it has a really nice community feel, with staff who take the time to get to know and help you out and encourage guests to socialise. It’s not a mad party hostel, but rather one where you can enjoy a few beers of an evening with like minded travellers.

For rates and to book, click here . Journey to Rainbow Beach by driving 3 hours 40 minutes and 322 kilometres, or taking a coach.

Rainbow Beach

Suggested time – 1 day Rainbow Beach is a tiny little town (if you can call it a town!) nestled between Agnes Water and the Sunshine Coast. It’s an ever popular backpacker destination because… here is where you go on your Fraser Island tour. But Rainbow Beach is lots of fun too – kick back here for a couple of days if you have the chance.

Things to do in Rainbow Beach

Sandboarding at Carlo Sand Blow
Surfing and sunbathing at Double Island Point
Driving around the gorgeous Great Sandy National Park

If you’re booking on a Fraser Island tour, you’ll need to be at the safety briefing for 6pm the day before. This means staying at least one night in Rainbow Beach – and it’s a good idea to book for the day after too, so you’re not rushing after your tour and have some time for drinks with your group!

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

Dingos is one of the only hostels in Rainbow Beach, but it’s ran so well that there’s really no need for any competition. It’s outside-based, with two fun bars often featuring live music, $7 dinners every night and free vegan pancakes for breakfast each morning.

Choose from a hostel dorm room or sleep in your car or campervan for just $10.

Fraser Island

For Fraser Island you have two options. If you have a four wheel drive vehicle with a large clearance, 4WD knowledge, are sure that your car won’t break down on the island, good car knowledge in general and a sense of adventure then go ahead, do a self-guided tour of the island.

If you don’t (the only criteria of these I really met was a sense of adventure – unless I can count hair-raisingly navigating down the Gibb River Road in Western Australia as 4WD knowledge?) then the best thing is to book a tour.

I went with Dingos – who are ran by the same people as Dingos hostel – and highly recommend them. The tour involves four 4WD vehicles drove on a ‘tag along’ basis – so everyone who has a licence and is 21+ gets a chance to drive the cars.

The tour definitely burns the candle at both ends – so if you want to drive first thing in the morning you really have to limit the drinking the night before. There’s video footage of me on night two, dancing around a gazebo with a bag of goon. Needless to say I was not on the list of designated drivers the following morning.

Dingos Tours: What Do They Include?

Knowledgeable and friendly guides
Three meals a day – if you have any dietary requirements just state at the time of booking and they will provide an altered meal plan
Use of the 4WD vehicle for three days
Ferry crossing to Fraser Island
Campsite accommodation

Now, I’m never really a huge fan of tours – I much prefer hitting the open road with my own car and stopping wherever I want to, for however long I desire. But for Fraser it is kind of a necessity, and it’s a great place to meet new people.

Highlights of Fraser Island

The brilliantly blue Lake Mackenzie
4WD – ing through the subtropical rainforest
Being drifted away in Eli Creek, a natural lazy river
The spectacular Champagne Pools
Gazing over the island from Indian Head lookout
Drinking (and dancing with) goon back at the campsite. Backpackers eh…

Other Fraser Island Tours

Return back to Rainbow Beach with the tour – you’ll probably want to stay another night at Dingos. The next day, drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 134 kilometres to Noosa Heads or jump on a coach.

Noosa and the Sunshine Coast

Noosa is a charming town nestled in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. It’s loved by backpackers and locals alike, because of its beautiful surroundings and bustling atmosphere.

Things to do in Noosa

Exploring the coastal and inland tracks of Noosa National Park – which is very easily accessible from the town, even if you don’t have a car
Lazing, BBQing or swimming on one of the town’s many beaches
Café hopping and seeing who really does the best soy cappuccino in Noosa
Similarly, check out every breakfast spot in town (warning: you’ll need a huge appetite or a few days)
Climb up Mount Tinbeerwah for amazing panoramic views of the whole coastline
Go on a kayak tour of Noosa Everglades
Go stand up paddleboarding in Little Cove

Where to stay in Noosa

Nomads Noosa is located right in the heart of town, making all of Noosa’s main attractions easily accessible. There’s options to play beach volleyball or pool and drink at the on site bar. Choose from 8, 10 and 16 bed dorms and click here for rates and to book today . Trav el 141 kilometres, 1 hour 45 minutes, to Brisbane.

You’ve reached the big city!! I was most excited to get to Brisbane because it meant I could go to LUSH and stock up on shampoo bars, but there are lots of other things to do in Brissy too.

The city has a certain air of glitz and glamour about it, and within Brisbane, there are some great museums, fantastic restaurants and bars, a bridge climb and city beaches.

Things to do in Brisbane

Visit the museum of Queensland and learn all about the state you’ve just been exploring
Explore the world of contemporary art at Queensland Gallery of Modern Art
Rent a bike and ride around the city and its ‘burbs
Take a Kookaburra River Queens cruise – which use old style paddlewheel vessels – around Brisbane’s river, taking in the city’s attractions.
Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island
Climb the city’s Story Bridge and get impressive views of the entire cityscape
Enjoy all sorts of artwork at Queensland Art Gallery
Visit South Bank Parklands and laze away a hot Brissy day at one of the city beaches
Go on a whale watching tour (seasonal) to see humpback whales travel from the Antarctic to Queensland’s more mild waters

Note – one of the most popular Brisbane attractions is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

I’ve omitted it off this list because I don’t think that any institution, sanctuary or not, is ethical if it allows you to hold a wild animal who normally likes its space. If you can hold it, it has likely been unnaturally domesticized. If you want to see koalas, head to Magnetic Island or the Great Ocean Road where there are plenty in their natural habitat.

Where to stay in Brisbane

Brisbane City Backpackers is a friendly, well-equipped hostel with a bar and a roof terrace that boasts a fantastic view of the city’s skyline. Many people choose to stay in the hostel while working, but it’s equally welcoming to short-term visitors.

The on-site bar stands out for its $10 dinner options every night and fantastic drink deals. The atmosphere here encourages a party mood, but if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience or recovering from dancing with a bag of goon on Fraser Island (like me), getting a good night’s sleep is easy. The staff are always ready to offer helpful daytime activity recommendations.

One notable perk is the availability of free parking, a rare find in the heart of Brisbane.

Brisbane to Sydney Drive Itinerary

You still with me? The Cairns to Brisbane drive itinerary was the longest chunk of your trip – but that’s not to say that the next two segments aren’t just as epic. If you’re venturing south of Brisbane, let me show you the very best spots to visit on this Brisbane to Sydney drive! Drive 1 hour, 78 kilometres, to reach Surfers Paradise. You can also jump on a Greyhound to do the distance, or take local buses and trains.

If Australia was a cupboard of condiments, Gold Coast would definitely be marmite – you either love it or you hate it. (it wouldn’t be Vegemite, Australia’s answer to Marmite, because every Aussie young or old loves it).

Gold Coast is home to lots of beaches, plenty of good surf, parties until 6am and high rise buildings. The centre of the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise, which is where most of the backpacker hangouts are.

Things to do in Surfers Paradise

Go out – it’s what the city built its popularity on. Surfers Paradise has all night parties, day sessions, boozy BBQs – you name it
Believe it or not, it’s a popular destination for surfing – although the waves definitely seem for the more advanced, there’s some spots that are great for beginners too
Go to the all-vegan Lord of the Fries. These burger stalls are all over Melbourne and Sydney, but I think the Surfers Paradise joint was the first to be completely vegan. It mainly serves mock meat, which was a bit strange to eat – but it’s tasty comfort food and it saves animals and the world
Check out views of the city from the Sky Point Observation Deck
Head to Infinity, which is a house of optical illusions and a fantastic place to spend a rainy day!
Browse the beachfront markets on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night
Check out some more free things to do on the Gold Coast here .

Pssst… I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you’re after a lively backpacker scene and crazy parties, stick to Surfers. BUT there’s lots of quieter beaches in the Gold Coast that are amazing for a more chilled out holiday; make sure you visit some of these hidden gems on your Brisbane to Sydney drive!

Other beaches on the Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads
Coolangatta
Kirra Point
Mermaid Beach

Check out this Gold Coast Beaches Guide for some more information about alternative beaches.

Where to stay in Surfers Paradise

A well-facilitated hostel that’s perfect for both chill and party, BUNK is centrally located, with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. The hostel offers free breakfast, and each dorm has ‘privacy pods’ with individual lights and power sockets. However, if you want to socialise, there’s plenty of areas perfect for meeting new travel mates.

Drive 1 hour 2 minutes and 78 kilometres from Surfers Paradise to Mullumbimby. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to fast track straight to Byron Bay.

Queensland/ New South Wales Border

Crossing over into New South Wales from Queensland is pretty uneventful – if you’ve ever crossed into Western Australia, you’ll know how painful border crossings can be!

You’re not too far from Byron Bay, one of the best places on the planet in my humble opinion , but there are a few gorgeous spots that are worth visiting before you reach the hippy town.

Mullimbimby

Suggested time – stopover Slightly inland is the charming town of Mullimbimby – which many regard to be ‘Byron Bay 20 years ago’. It’s one of those towns where great pleasure can be had just by strolling around.

Things to do in Mullimbimby

Stroll around the Mullimbimby Community Garden
Check out the local Rainforest Walk
Enjoy the markets – Mullum Community Market runs on the 3 rd Saturday of every month and the Mullum Farmers Market is every Friday 7-11am
Check out some of the charismatic cafes
Stroll around the murals painted by local artists
Attend a yoga or pilates class or unwind at the day spa

Drive 10 minutes or 7.7 kilometres (yes, that’s it!) to Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads

Suggested time – stopover

Photo via Flickr by Richard Rydge Heading out to the coast from Mullimbimby is the tranquil Brunswick Heads, home to bushland opening out onto serene beaches.

Things to do in Brunswick Heads

Canoe, birdwatch or hike in the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
Catch a surf on the local beach
Jump from the old wooden bridge into the clear river (at high tide!)
Enjoy the vistas of the bush opening out to beach
Go stand up paddleboarding at Torakina Beach

Drive 18 minutes or 18 kilometres to Byron Bay

Suggested time – 3-4 days

Ahhh… Byron Bay. My second home and the only place in 18 months of travelling that could persuade me to stay longer than a month. I actually lived in Byron Bay, in a tent, for five beautiful months and I would go back in a heartbeat. There’s lots of reasons why so many people fall in love with beautiful Byron Bay, and it will no doubt be a highlight on your Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Here’s why it changed my life . I’d recommend staying in Byron Bay for as long as possible – but if you only have a few days, here’s the highlights.

Things to do in Byron Bay

Walk up to the lighthouse
Catch a wave at The Pass
Go scuba diving at Julian Rocks
Catch some live music at The Rails or the Northern
Watch the sunset while dancing away at the drum circle
Watch some of the amazing entertainers (often fire spinners or buskers) at Main Beach
Catch the Arts Factory’s talent show

I genuinely feel a pang in my heart while writing about Byron Bay – I miss it every day.

Byron Bay Tours

Where to stay in byron bay.

There’s no better place to stay at in Byron Bay than The Arts Factory.

Spreading out over 5 acres of gorgeous grounds, The Arts Factory is less of a hostel and more of an experience.

It’s got a name as a bit of a hippie hangout, and it definitely attracts the free-spirited and artistic – but really, there’s something for everyone at the Arts Factory.

Enjoy didgeridoo lessons, yoga classes, bush walks, the weekly talent show, and more at the Arts Factory, while staying in one of their dorms, private rooms, or even on the attached campsite, which is affectionately known as ‘The Jungle’.

I lived here for five months and couldn’t get enough of it.

The Hinterland of Byron Bay

Byron Bay’s famous for its beaches, but don’t forget to check out its amazing hinterland too. Home to waterfalls, national parks, forests and quirky towns, there’s something kind of magical about the Byron Bay hinterland.

Things to do in Byron Bay’s Hinterland

Eat locally sourced food in Newrybar’s Harvest restaurant
Head to Nimbin, which is possibly the hippiest town in Australia. Enjoy the laidback, organic lifestyle of the town and stock up on some erm… treats… if you’re into that kind of thing!
Hike to the top of Mount Warning to be the first in mainland Australia to see the sun rise
Walk to the base of the spectacular Minyon Falls
Stroll through rainforest of the Nightcap National Park to the gorgeous Protestor Falls
Have a swim in the plunge pool of Killen Falls

Drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 126 kilometres from Byron Bay to Yamba, or catch a coach heading south

Yamba is a sleepy little coastal town with lots of natural beauty and attractions. While it’s not the most visited town on the east coast by any means, it’s gaining popularity with backpackers and travellers doing the Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Things to do in Yamba

Go surfing at the many beaches
Bask in the stunning natural beauty of the Angourie Blue and Green Pools
Take the Angourie Walking Track along the stunning coastline
Enjoy the vista with a picnic at the Yamba Lighthouse
Do ‘Shane’s 10 buck tour’ which takes you around the town, telling you its stories in the tour operator’s own wicked humour

Where to stay in Yamba

Yamba YHA Backpacker Beach Resort is located right in the centre of town, and has the option of dorms or private rooms with en suite bathrooms. There’s an on site café and bar, BBQ facilities and free parking, and the hostel is where the famous ‘Shane’s Tour’ begins. For rates and to book, click here .

Catch a coach heading toward Coffs Harbour, or drive the 1 hour 38 minutes, 138 kilometre distance

Coffs Harbour

Photo by Andrea Schaffer via Flickr Famed mainly for ‘The Big Banana’, there are some other attractions in Coffs Harbour that aren’t big fruit. Some of the best attractions are coastal, but my favourite bit of Coffs is its hinterland.

Things to do in Coffs Harbour and the surroundings

The gorgeous waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park
The Big Banana’s waterslides and activities
Koala spotting in Bongil Bongil National Park
Visit the rugged Muttonbird Island
Admire the boats at the marina and jetty

Drive 27 minutes, 34 kilometres, sout-eastwards from Coffs Harbour to Bellingen. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to skip this part and head straight to Port Macquarie.

Bellingen is a wonderful little country town; I was there just after same-sex marriage was passed in Australia, and was uplifted by all the banners and signs throughout the town expressing their joy at equality.

Pair this with stunning buildings and fantastic cafes set in the most picturesque setting, and you’ve got yourself a perfect little town.

Drive westwards from Bellingen toward Armidale. It’s 155 kilometres, and would take around 2 hours with no stops – but let’s face it, you’ll be stopping a lot.

The Waterfall Way

The Waterfall Way has some of the most scenic falls in the country. It’s a 185 kilometre road traversing no less than five national parks.

Waterfalls along the way

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Skywalk Lookout
Crystal Shower Falls
Tristina Falls
Dangar Falls
Wollombi Falls
Chandler Falls
Red Cedar Falls (which a difficult 8km hike is necessary to reach – but definitely head there if you have the time!)

From Armidale, travel down the Oxley Highway to reach Port Macquarie. At a distance of 250 kilometres, it’s just over 3 hours of driving.

Port Macquarie

Whether you head back out to the coast via the Waterfall Way return route or head south in the hinterland, you’ll eventually find your way to the Central NSW town of Port Macquarie. Famed for its stunning beaches, this town has a lovely laid back atmosphere and plenty to pass a few days.

Things to do in Port Macquarie

Check out the artistically painted rocks along the breakwall
Check out a sunrise or sunset on the many beaches
Grab a beer and watch the waves at the Beach House
Walk the 9km coastal walk which traverses most of the town’s beaches
Visit the ‘brothers’ and drive to the summit of the North Brother mountain, which offers spectacular views of the local area

Head 244 kilometres south to Newcastle, which should take you about 2 hours 10 minutes. Or hop on a coach heading in the same direction.

Suggested time – 1 day Just two hours north of Sydney, Newcastle is a buzzing town basking in scenic surroundings. Head to Newcastle to check out the coastal national parks and the charming atmosphere of the city itself.

Things to do in Newcastle

Glenrock State Conservation Area
Minmi Cemetary Walk, which tells some of the tales of the coal mining boom
Enjoy the vistas of Nobbys Beach and the city’s lighthouse
Visit the Newcastle Museum to learn more about the surrounding area’s history
See some local art at the Newcastle Art Gallery
Go to the nearby Port Stephens and do the Tomaree Head Summit Walk .

From Newcastle, head to Palm Beach, which is a 173 kilometre or 2 hour 16 minute drive. If you are taking the coaches, you’ll need to head straight to Sydney.

Photo by Suzanne via Flickr You’re technically in Sydney’s northern beaches now! Palm Beach was made famous for being the setting of Home and Away, but there’s plenty to enjoy within the vicinity for not-so-big fans of the Aussie soap.

Things to do in Palm Beach

Take in a great view from Barrenjoey Lighthouse
Go paddleboarding from the beach
Walk around the Home and Away set
Dine at some of New South Wales’ classiest eateries

Drive 43 minutes, 30 kilometres, along the side of the Pacific Ocean towards Manly, one of Sydney’s northern suburbs.

Manly

I’m really dragging out this entrance to Sydney, aren’t I? You’re almost there – well, you’re technically there – Manly is and isn’t part of Sydney. It’s only a ferry ride to Darling Harbour, but the beaches and community atmosphere of the suburb make it an entity of its own. Many backpackers choose to stay, work and live in Manly over Sydney ‘proper’, and there’s plenty of draws to this part of the city.

Things to do in Manly

Visit the resident penguins at Collins Beach
Have a BBQ and catch the sunset at Shelley Beach
Do the 9km North Head Sanctuary loop walk from Shelley Beach, which will give you fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and wildlife spotting opportunities
Walk along the northern beaches via the Manly to Split walk
Check out the bustling markets of the town

Where to stay in Manly

If you don’t fancy staying in Sydney proper, check out Manly Bunkhouse, which boasts en suite dorms and rooms, communal areas, central location and outdoor spaces. Click here to find out more . Take the ferry over to Sydney Central, which costs $15 – or $2.60 if you are going on a Sunday! Or drive the 18 kilometre distance, which should take about 30 minutes (traffic dependent).

Suggested time – 4 days You made it! Congratulations on reaching Australia’s largest city. Sydney’s definitely a bucket list city that every keen traveller should visit at least once in their lifetime. Although it’s not my favourite place in Australia, it was the first part of Australia I ever went to and that makes it very special for me.

Things to do in Sydney

Walk around the iconic Opera House
Stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, right by the harbour
Walk to Mrs Macquarie’s Seat and snap a great picture of the Opera House
Head to the Australian Museum to learn all about this weird and wonderful country
Explore the funky suburbs such as Newtown
Brunch in the upmarket Surry Hills
Head to the Eastern Beaches; admire the outdoor pool at Bondi and complete the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Go to the NSW Royal National Park to check out sights like the Figure 8 Pools and Wedding Cake Rock
Check out this local’s guide to Sydney for more ideas

Sydney Tours

Where to stay in sydney.

Where you decide to stay in Sydney largely depends on what kind of scene you’re after; whether you want to enjoy the fast-paced life of the CBD, one of its quirky suburbs or chill out on Bondi Beach.

If you’re after a stay in Central Sydney, Railway Square YHA is a hostel with a difference – half of it is located in disused railway cabins! It also offers cheap breakfasts, excellent facilities and great events. For more information and to book, click here .

Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary

So many people fast track from Sydney straight to Melbourne, and I think it’s such a shame. This area of the country is spectacular, with amazing coastline, unique national parks and quirky townships. Take some time for your Sydney to Melbourne drive; to explore a little of southern New South Wales and eastern Victoria, and I promise you won’t regret it!

The Blue Mountains

Suggested time – 2-3 days To reach the Blue Mountains, drive 55 minutes or 62 kilometres from Sydney to reach the edge of the National Park. It’s an extra 30 minutes/ 40 kilometres to reach the three sisters, the most prominent landmark in the park. Alternatively, you can take the train to the national park from Sydney Central.

I’m sending you on a little detour here, but it’s well worth it. The Blue Mountains are located 62 kilometres west of Sydney, and they are nothing short of spectacular. If you’re taking the Greyhound down the coast, I’d really recommend renting a car, taking the train or taking a tour to this national park – it’s definitely an Australia must-see. Covered in eucalypt forests, the Blue Mountains are named so because of how the oil from the trees mixes with water vapour. They span over 11,400 km2 and encompasses hills, waterfalls, lookouts and spectacular panoramic vistas.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains

Three Sisters Lookout, the most popular and iconic spot in the Blue Mountains
Evans Lookout, my personal favourite
Traverse some of the many tracks of the mountains
Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre

Psstt.. If you’re visiting the Blue Mountains on a day trip from Sydney, head there on a Sunday, when the train fare is just $2.60

Blue Mountain Tours

From Bathurst, which is located at the other end of the Blue Mountains National Park, drive 253 kilometres to Canberra, which should take you around 3 hours 13 minutes. Alternatively you can reach Canberra by bus or train from Sydney Central.

Tell anyone you’re planning on a trip to Canberra on your east coast Australia road trip and their response will be ‘why’? Famed for its dullness, the capital of Australia isn’t the top spot on anyone’s itinerary. Why am I recommending you go there then? Well, for all my history and politics fans, there’s lots to do in Canberra if you’re interested in getting to know how Australia works and has worked in the past. And I think if you’re travelling in a country, these are things you have a duty to know. Canberra can be done in a day trip from Sydney – it’s a three hour drive to the city (just down the road, you know), or you can take a coach or train between cities. There is enough to keep you occupied for longer though – check out this post for some ideas of what to do in 2-3 days in Canberra . If you’re self driving down the east coast, you can head south-east from Canberra and then continue your Sydney to Melbourne drive via the coast.

Things to do in Canberra

Visit the Parliament House and sit in on a question time (which is 2pm when the parliament is running)
Walk around the Old Parliament House, home of the Museum of Australian Democracy
See the Australian War Memorial
Enjoy a sunset over Lake Burley Griffin
See artwork at the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery
Look out over the city from the top of Mount Ainslie

Check out this guide to Canberra for more ideas.

Where to stay in Canberra

A spacious hostel in the city centre, Canberra City YHA offers a swimming pool, sauna, rooftop terrace and an onsite bar and café. Choose from double, twin or dorm rooms and check here for rates and to book . From Canberra, drive 2 hours 55 minutes/ 222 kilometres eastwards to Jervis Bay. If you are taking public transport, taking a bus to Wollongong and then local transport south to Jervis Bay is an option.

Bladdy magical. That’s what Jervis Bay is. Three hours south of Sydney, it’s a spectacular beach with white-as-it-gets sand and the bluest of blue waters. If it’s hot on your visit, it’s a great place to have a beach day – or there are hiking trails and swimming spots to enjoy. Whatever the weather, it will no doubt be a highlight on your Sydney to Melbourne drive!

Things to do in Jervis Bay

Have picnic at Greenfield Beach and enjoy the beautiful rockpools
Take the White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach along the bay
Go on one of the walking tracks of Booderee National Park
Walk the Abrahams Bosom Reserve which leads to some of the most secluded beaches in the area

From Jervis Bay, travel 1 hour 12 minutes or 87 kilometres to Ulladulla. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast of Australia, Premier serve this area of the country.

Ulladulla

Suggested time – half a day

On your drive south, Ulladulla is worth a stop over on your Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive, mainly for the ‘one track for all’ walk which describes Aboriginal culture of the area, describing what happened when Europeans invaded and settled. From Ulladulla, drive 50 minutes or 63 kilometres south to Mogo, or hop back on the Premier coach service.

Mogo is a quirky village that is really no more than a cluster of buildings on the side of the road, but it’s worth checking out to see some of the eccentric and arty shops, and admiring the treasures within each! From Mogo, drive 2 hours 20 minutes, 189 kilometres, to Eden, stopping in at some of the New South Wales state forests (many of which are also free campsites!) along the way.

New South Wales State Forests

Suggested time – stopover or overnight stop

Away from the beach, New South Wales is home to some spectacular state forests. There are lots of free camping spots within these forests, each which contains walking trails and makes for a great leg stretch en route south. Look for signs to rest areas between Mogo and Eden; you’ll find information about local walking trails along this route.

Eden

It’s scenic beaches all the way down now, and Eden is no exception. If you fancy lazing back on a beach, there’s plenty of those; or seek some adventure at one of the surrounding national parks.

Things to do in Eden

Visit Woboyn Beaches – located on the shores of Disaster Bay! – to enjoy the spectacular oceanic vistas
See the Ben Boyd National Park for 4WD tracks and short walks
Enjoy the heritage of the town through the Heritage Walk or Heritage Drive

From Eden, head toward the New South Wales/ Victoria border and then drive to Lakes Entrance. Total driving time 2 hours 46 minutes distance 242 kilometres. If you’re taking public transport, transfer to a V Line coach to reach Lakes Entrance.

New South Wales/ Victoria Border

Just south of Eden is the New South Wales/ Victoria border, another unassuming crossing that only involves passing a sign.

Lakes Entrance

A somewhat sizable town under 200kms from the NSW/ Victorian border, Lakes Entrance is a perfect mix of idyllic water, beautiful beaches and fascinating history. It’s a laid back kind of town which is perfect for holidaying, camping and unwinding. It’s also one of the most beautiful spots of the south coast, in my humble opinion!

Things to do in Lakes Entrance

The Entrance to the Lakes walk which showcases some of the best natural scenery of the area
Hire bikes and explore the town with two wheels
Take an eco cruise to see some local marine life
Explore the limestone formations of Buchan Caves Reserve

From Lakes Entrance, drive 3 hours 34 minutes or 273 kilometres westwards towards Wilson’s Promontory. If you are taking public transport, it is easiest to travel from Lakes Entrance straight to Melbourne and organise day trips to Wilson’s Promontory and Phillip Island from there.

Wilson’s Promontory

A national park bordering the beach, and the southernmost point of Australia, Wilson’s Promontory is a fantastic place to stop on a Victoria road trip.

The park is free to enter and explore, and includes hikes and beaches. Its natural beauty makes it an essential stop on your Sydney to Melbourne drive.

Things to do in Wilson’s Promontory

Walk to Sealers Cove, which is a 19 kilometre day walk
Stay at Wilsons Promontory Lightstation
See the world’s most southern mangroves
Hike to the top of Mount Oberon
Squeak around on the sands of Squeaky Beach

Day Tour to Wilson’s Promontory

Drive just under 2 hours, 134 kilometres, to reach Phillip Island. The island is connected to Australian mainland by a 26 kilometre long bridge, so you don’t need to worry about ferry crossings!

Phillip Island

Located off the coast just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a great pit stop.

Famed for its wildlife, water sports and motor sports, there’s plenty of great reasons to visit Phillip Island if you’re not quite ready for big city life and the end of your east coast road trip.

Things to do on Phillip Island

Surf from one of the many beaches
See some of the spectacular wildlife, including penguins, seals and koalas
Go go-karting and learn about the history of motor spots at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre
Check out the crashing waves of Cape Woolami along the rugged coastline of the island

Phillip Island Tours

Drive 1 hour 50 minutes, which is 141 kilometres, from Phillip Island to Melbourne

Melbourne

Suggested time – 4 days or more!

Bet you thought you’d never get there, right?

Nearly 3000 kms from Cairns – although if you’ve taken all of my suggested detours, you’ll have racked up a good few more kilometres – your arrival in Melbourne is a long time coming.

Melbourne is a vivacious, ever-changing city with a great community feel and upbeat spirit. It reminds me a lot of Bristol, my adopted hometown, and it has tons of amazing things to see and do.

Things to do in Melbourne

Visit some of the amazing museums or galleries throughout the city
Café hopping in funky Fitzroy or other suburbs
Discover some literature gems at the State Library of Victoria (and of course snapping a photo of )
Support Melbourne’s most sustainable restaurant, Lentil as Anything
Enjoy seaside vibes at St Kilda
Watch the penguins at St Kilda
Get lost in the other endless suburbs
Catch a live music event at one of the many venues around the city
Eat at some of the best restaurants in Melbourne
Get out and exploring some of the surrounding towns and natural wonders. These include: the Grampians National Park, the Great Ocean Road, the city of Ballarat, the quirky town of Daylesford.
If you’re not quite road tripped out yet, check out this Victoria road trip itinerary to see the best of the west of the state.

Where to stay in Melbourne

For well-equipped accommodation at budget rates, there’s nowhere better than Urban Central. This busy hostel has lots going on, with cheap dinners, an on site bar and complimentary bike hire, rice, pasta, tea and coffee. The dorms are great for a good night’s shut eye; each bunk has its own light, a comfy mattress and a large locker with a power point inside each. For rates and to book, click here.

There are so many more things to do in Melbourne, and it’s a great place to set some roots down and live for some time. If you’re looking to find a job after your Cairns to Melbourne road trip, working a while in Victoria’s capital could be the answer!

East Coast Australia Tour

If you don’t fancy doing the whole trip by car or coach, guided tours from G Adventures travel the popular East Coast route. They’re a great company who have a sustainable influence with their tours. Click here to find out more.

Your ultimate Cairns to Melbourne road trip guide

If you’ve managed to read this Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary from beginning to end, I salute you – it’s one long post! But please do save it for later and check back – this is just the beginning of a series of posts on the East Coast of Australia. Expect destination specific hostel guides, packing lists, driving tips and example budgets online over the course of the next few weeks! Subscribe to never miss a post, or come and say hello over on Facebook !

Hey! I’m on YouTube too!

I’m currently travelling from Bali to London without taking a single flight! I’m documenting my journey on YouTube and would love it if you could follow me there! Here is a video detailing the journey a bit more:

Click here to go to my channel – I’d love it if you subscribed and joined the community! Thinking of exploring the rest of Australia? Please do, it’s awesome! I’ve written a few more handy guides like this one, which are perfect to put your wanderlust into action!

Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
Melbourne to Perth Drive Itinerary
Perth to Broome Drive Itinerary
Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary (via the Gibb River Road)
Darwin to Adelaide Drive Itinerary
Adelaide to Cairns Drive Itinerary (via the Inland Way)

If you’re yet to head to Australia, check out my packing list to make sure you’ve got everything and send your friends and relatives this Australia gift guide so they can get you a little something before you head off!

Finally, if you have a lot of questions, I now offer travel coaching! Here’s some more information about this service .

Disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This is just one of the ways I keep this blog running!

Pin me baby, one more time

Searching for an east coast Australia road trip itinerary? This suggested route will take you through the highlights and hidden gems of the east coast of Australia, including spots in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Split into three sections: Cairns to Brisbane drive, Brisbane to Sydney drive and Sydney to Melbourne drive, and with Australia hostel recommendations and plenty of travel tips for Australia, this is the only Cairns to Melbourne drive itinerary you'll need. Click through to read more!

5 thoughts on “ East Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary and Ultimate Guide ”

Nice blog and great places to visit

Brilliant guide Claire, love the format and all the information you provide. Can I ask if you remember where the spot was from the photo you have of Eden in NSW? Looks amazing! (Not planning on visiting just yet thought due to the bushfires)

Hi Jake, thanks so much for your comment. the photo would have been from the Main Beach in the centre of town. Hopefully the bushfires get better soon there!

Hey, brilliant road trip Itinerary! We are halfway between our Cairns to Brisbane road trip and your post has been really helpful so thank you!

We will be going to Agnes water in a couple of days, can you tell me the company you did your afternoon surf lesson with please?

Thanks! Amber

Thanks for sharing the itinerary. Definitely gonna use this itinerary for my upcoming trip to East Coast Australia.

Comments are closed.

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Our top tips

Head on a Gold Coast to Melbourne road trip! Discover stunning beaches, must-see stops, and insider tips for an unforgettable journey.

Day 1: Gold Coast to Byron Bay

After you've picked up your vehicle head straight to Nimbin, a unique small hippy town in NSW, this will take you just under 2 hours. Once you've spent the morning wandering the streets drive 1 hour to the famous Byron Bay. Spend the evening watching the sunset at the lighthouse, have some fish and chips from Fishheads by the beach, or visit the famous Piano Bar.

Top tip: If you're in a car or SUV make sure your accomodation has parking as on-street parking in Byron is notoriously difficult, and even harder if you're in a campervan so make sure you have a campsite booked.

Day 2: Byron Bay

We recommend having a full day in Byron Bay and the surrounding areas as there's so much to do and see. You could take a surf lesson, go kayaking, take a yoga class, or spend the day browsing all the independent boutiques. You could also drive 12 minutes north of Byron and visit Brunswick Heads. Here you could visit Torakina Beach or spot some whales along the breakwater. If you drive a further 25 minutes north you'll reach Hastings Point which has a sandbar which rivals the Whitsundays!

Day 3: Byron Bay to Port Macquarie

This leg is a 4 hour drive along the East Coast. We recommend stopping at Coffs Harbour to see the iconic big banana, the Forest Sky Pier, Nambucca Heads, and Hat Head. There are lots of lovely small towns to visit along this stretch so leave early in the morning and allow yourself plenty of time to get to Port Macquarie.

Day 5: Port Macquarie to Woy Woy

We recommend visiting Woy Woy and the surrounding areas, it's a hidden gem on the Central Coast, a short distance from Sydney and 3.5 hours from Port Macquarie. You can eat some fresh fish and chips, take a boat cruise, watch the pelicans at Pelican Island & more. Alternatively, you can visit Newcastle, or the Myall Lakes region. Here, we recommend Seal Rocks, Nelson Bay, or Port Stephens.

Day 6: Woy Woy to Canberra

The penultimate stretch comes in at just over 4 hours. If you're in Canberra in Spring make sure you visit Floriade in Commonwealth Park, Australia's biggest Spring festival. Over 1 million flowers are planted and it's a tulip lovers dream! They have bars, food, and live music. Also be sure to visit Mount Ainslie Lookout for a birdseye view of parliament. Canberra has lots of great street art so spend a morning wandering round the city with a coffee.

Day 7: Canberra to Albury

For a budget friendly option we recommend staying at the Ashton Motel, which is inspired by a Palms Springs motel and has been featured in Vogue & Architectural Digest. There's not a huge amount to do here but it's a great central point between Canberra and Melbourne, use the time to relax after days of driving!

Day 8: Albury to Melbourne

The final stretch is just under 3.5 hours. Before you drop off your vehicle make the most of your time in Melbourne. If you have unlimited kms you could visit some of the nearby towns at the end of the Great Ocean Road such as Torquay, Anglesey, or Lorne, or just wander the streets of Fitzroy or Collingwood.

Whether you follow our itinerary or do your own thing, there's so much to do and see on this route! And for only $1 per day you can't go wrong.

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Sydney to Cairns Road Trip

Alison Condon

September 10th, 2024

7 minute read

Sydney to Cairns Road Trip Image | East Coast Tours Australia

A road trip from Sydney to Cairns is hands-down one of the most iconic trips that you can take through Australia. Spanning more than 2,400km from one city to the other, this drive takes you up the country’s stunning east coast. Stopping off at all sorts of tropical beach towns, bustling cities , and thriving rainforests along the way - not to mention its proximity to the one and only Great Barrier Reef - this is the ultimate road trip for those looking to make the most of their time Down Under! So, dig out that backpack and splash out on sunscreen because we’ve got all the info you need to set off on your Sydney to Cairns adventure!

A woman looking at a map while leaning against her car

Is it Worth Driving to Cairns from Sydney?

Yes, driving from Sydney to Cairns is absolutely worth it, as long as you give yourself enough time to enjoy it. While some travellers might prefer to fly or catch the bus from one destination to another, there are lots of advantages to doing this journey as a road trip.

Not only do you get to choose your itinerary based on your budget, bucket list , and time frame, but you also get the rare opportunity to uncover all sorts of stunning hidden gems along the way! If you want to get the most out of your East Coast visit, a road trip is the way to go.

Towns and cities along the coast are particularly used to tourists, backpackers, and visitors, so you'll come across plenty of accommodation options, filling stations, fun-filled tours and activities, campsites , and eateries along the way.

Lots of people set off on Sydney to Cairns (or Cairns to Sydney) road trips year-round, and stop off at a lot of the same hot spots. As a result, you're bound to bump into some familiar faces or make some friends along the way. Another perk of taking a road trip up the East Coast is that, at the drop of a hat, you can rearrange your journey, extend your stay in a certain destination, book a new tour, or reserve new accommodation as you meet new people on your travels.

A backpacker smiling out the window of a 4WD on the beach in K'gari

How Many Days to Travel from Sydney to Cairns?

How many days you spend driving from Sydney to Cairns is entirely dependent on you! Driving directly from Sydney to Cairns without a break would take around 30 hours. Of course, a fun road trip will ideally include some stops along the way for activities, exploration, food, and at least a little bit of sleep!

While deciding how long your road trip should last , ask yourself: How long would you like to spend travelling? Which East Coast destinations would you like to visit along the way, and how long would you like to spend at each one? What are some activities you just can’t miss along the East Coast, and what’s the availability like for each one?

If you’re short on time, you could do a whistle-stop tour through the key East Coast spots in two weeks . But if you want to be more flexible with your itinerary and give yourself enough time to see all of the best bits, we recommend dedicating five weeks to this road trip. Be warned, though: the more time you spend uncovering Australia , the more tempted you’ll be to stay!

Two backpackers posing in a Jucy car on the Gold Coast

Where Should I Stop Between Sydney and Cairns?

There are so many breathtaking stops you could make during the drive from Sydney to Cairns that, if you stopped at all of them, your road trip might never end! However, there are some essential East Coast stops that you just can’t miss.

A woman driving a rental car along the East Coast of Australia

Where to stop between Sydney and Cairns

Australia’s largest city and one of the most popular starting points for those hoping to travel Down Under. Stop off at its famous beaches like Bondi and Manly, and be sure to get your photos at world-famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge! This bustling, vibrant city is the perfect starting point for an East Coast tour, complete with stunning coastal walks, brilliant day trips , perfect surf, fun nightlife, and top-tier entertainment.

A backpacker looking out at Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney, Australia

Become one with the laid-back hippy atmosphere of Byron Bay , do the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse walk, check out eclectic local boutiques and markets, and take advantage of the coastal town’s excellent surfing.

Two women looking out from Byron Bay Lighthouse

Noosa is famous for its relaxing, beachy atmosphere, its excellent selection of restaurants, shops, and cafes, and its natural beauty. Visitors are urged to check out the breathtaking coastal walk and explore the Noosa Everglades while they’re in town.

Two surfers looking out to sea on a beach in Noosa, Queensland

The next major city along the East Coast after Sydney is the Gold Coast . Not only does it boast world-famous surfing spots and a thriving nightlife scene, but the Gold Coast is home to the best theme parks in Australia, including Dreamworld and Wet 'n' Wild!

Two girls at the bottom of a water slide at Wet N' Wild water park in the Gold Coast

K’gari (Fraser Island)

K’gari is one of the most popular stops along the east coast of Australia thanks to its crystal clear freshwater lakes and thick green rainforests to its 4WD and dingo-spotting opportunities. Go camping in the wilderness, explore the dunes, take a dip in Champagne Pools, and explore an ancient shipwreck while you’re on the island!

You’ll be in search of more crowds and civilisation after a few nights on K’gari, which is why Brisbane is the perfect next stop. Enjoy some great food and indulge in some local arts and culture before taking a trip out to Moreton Island or visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

A ferris wheel in Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia at dusk

Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the gateway to the world-famous Whitsunday Islands, best known for their colourful and lively coral reefs and iconic landmarks like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. Stop by for a few days and book an overnight tour to guarantee you get the very best of the Whitsundays. Visit at the right time of year and you could have an encounter with some humpback whales !

Magnetic Island

Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island is a beautiful, relaxed destination abundant with Aussie wildlife, beautiful hiking trails, and secluded beaches. Must-see spots include Forts Walk and Horseshoe Bay, while breakfast with koalas is one of the most beloved activities to book!

Get the most exceptional views of the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, as well as natural wonders like Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. While you’re in the area, be sure to take some time to visit Kuranda - a tropical mountain-top village. If you’re seeking a thrill, try out bungy jumping , river rafting , tubing , or skydiving !

Backpackers taking a selfie during raging thunder tubing in Cairns

Things to do between Sydney and Cairns

If you’re struggling to choose which stops you should make along the East Coast, it can help to decide what sorts of activities you’d be interested in during your travels.

Those hoping to explore the Great Barrier Reef during their road trip should absolutely stop off in the Whitsundays, Cairns, and Port Douglas for some exceptional scuba diving, snorkelling, and scenic flights. If you’re a thrill-seeker, Byron Bay, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, and Cairns are the top spots for all things sky-diving and bungee jumping. Surfers can catch the best waves along the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, and in Sydney beaches like Bondi and Manly.

Spend a little more time in the tropical north than in the south if you want to explore the very best rainforests, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes. If you’re interested in living the island life, be sure to carve out time to visit K’gari (Fraser Island), Magnetic Island, Green Island, and Whitsunday Island .

A girl doing a surf lesson in Byron Bay, New South Wales

When is the best time for a Sydney to Cairns road trip?

Strictly speaking, there is never a bad time to embark on a road trip from Sydney to Cairns. However, you’ll get to experience the coast at its very best during Australian autumn or spring. It all depends on what your priorities are during your adventure! Check out our full seasonal rundown of the East Coast for a better idea of when would suit you best.

Two backpackers taking a selfie in front of the Sydney Opera House

If you have any questions ahead of setting off on your once-in-a-lifetime East Coast Tour, our friendly travel experts are available to chat 24/7 .

Build your own east coast itinerary or take a look through our pre-built itineraries ., start your own journey.

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Melbourne to Cairns inland road trip: Distance, time & best stops

David Whitley
Practicalities

Melbourne to Cairns road trip: Cobar and Bourke

The 391km drive from Griffith to Cobar brings big changes in the landscape, with a notably shift from country to outback.

The main noteworthy attractions near the route are Lake Cargelligo, where you can go swimming and kayaking, and the Round Hill Nature Reserve . Here, you can go for a walk along the fire trails.

On the way into mining town Cobar, you’ll pass the Fort Bourke Hill mine lookout on the way into town.

The best things to do in Cobar include the Great Cobar Museum, the Cobar Sound Chapel art installation and admiring the Aboriginal rock art in Mount Grenfell National Park.

Cobar accommodation recommendations

The best places to stay in Cobar are:

For a decent-sized pool and kitchenettes: Crossroads Motel .
For – usually – the cheapest prices: Copper City Motel .
For family rooms and a restaurant: Cobar Town and Country Motor Inn .

Bourke on a Melbourne to Cairns road trip

From Cobar, plough on north another 160km to Bourke, perhaps via Gundabooka National Park , which offers camping, wildlife, walks and more Aboriginal rock art. The steep 1.4km to major rock art site Yapa (Mulgowan) is the top option for those with limited time.

In Bourke , the top attraction is the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre , which uses interactive tech to tell tales of outback life and bushrangers. This is also where you buy tickets for hour-long Darling River cruises aboard the PV Jandra.

Mount Oxley near Bourke, New South Wales

Top Bourke accommodation options

There’s not a great array of accommodation in Bourke , but these are the best bets in order of preference:

For great riverside location, gardens and a pool: Bourke Riverside Motel .
For central location: Darling River Motel .
As a last resort: Sunshine Gardens .

Click through to the next section: Cunnamulla and Charleville.

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Cairns to Melbourne drive

Cairns to melbourne road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Cairns to Melbourne. If you're planning a road trip to Melbourne, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

9:00 am start in Cairns drive for about 5.5 hours

2:29 pm Charters Towers stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:29 pm drive for about 5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 10.5 hours find more stops

11:00 am leave from Emerald drive for about 5.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 5.5 hours

10:00 am leave from South Pacific drive for about 6.5 hours

day 3 driving ≈ 6.5 hours

10:00 am leave from Dubbo drive for about 6 hours

3:57 pm Beechworth stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:57 pm drive for about 3 hours

7:46 pm arrive in Melbourne eat at The Lui Bar

day 4 driving ≈ 9 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Charters Towers (2 answers) Emerald (2 answers) South Pacific (3 mentions) questions about South Pacific: 2 weeks in the South Pacific in June: Where to?! Dubbo (4 answers) Beechworth

Where's the best place to eat in Melbourne?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest The Lui Bar , which was mentioned 3 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Melbourne? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Melbourne?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Melbourne. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Melbourne.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Melbourne to Cairns drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Cairns to Melbourne . Or get a full Cairns to Melbourne flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Cairns well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Cairns!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Cairns to Melbourne

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

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COMMENTS

Melbourne to Cairns inland road trip: Distance, time & best stops
01/04/2023. Practicalities. The Melbourne to Cairns inland drive covers a distance of 2,818km in around 30 hours. Top road trip stops to add to the itinerary include the wineries of Shepparton and Griffith, the outback towns of Cobar and Charleville, and the national parks of northern Queensland. The inland road trip from Melbourne to Cairns is ...
Melbourne to Cairns
The Leichhardt Way follows in the footsteps of one of Australia's early explorers, Ludwig Leichhardt, and is one of the fastest, and more aesthetically appealing ways to cruise the 32 hours of Queensland Outback between Melbourne and Cairns. This road winds its way through the Outback's lesser-known communities, nudging some of Queensland ...
Melbourne to Cairns Drive
The Melbourne to Cairns Drive is the ultimate East Coast Australia road trip. Highlights include Sydney, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef, Fraser Island and Hinchinbrook Island. We map the best places to stop, where to find budget beach camping, and key things to do along the way.
Melbourne to Cairns road trip: The ultimate drive guide
An overview of the drive from Melbourne (VIC) to Cairns (QLD) Drive time: 31 hours (direct inland route) Drive distance: 2,824km (direct inland route) Suggested road trip length: While it is possible to complete the direct route in as little as three days, you'll be on the road for long periods of time with minimal stops. Instead, we recommend setting aside at least two or three weeks for ...
Melbourne to Cairns
By Road. Duration: 30+ hours. It would take more than 30 hours to drive directly between Melbourne and Cairns, but it's not advisable to do it in one go. Spread over a few weeks, a road trip between the two cities is a great way to experience the diversity of Australia's climate, landscape, and cultures. The most direct overland route between ...
40 Best Stops Between Melbourne and Cairns
How long is the drive from Melbourne to Cairns? The direct drive from Melbourne to Cairns is 1,858 mi (2,990 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 12 hrs in normal traffic.. If you're going on a road trip from Melbourne to Cairns, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Canberra, Townsville, Dubbo, Echuca, Healesville, Mudgee, Orange, Beechworth ...
21 Day Melbourne to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary
Airlie Beach to Cairns. Day 19-21. Airlie Beach to Cairns is a 7-hour drive, so we will drive to Townsville for the night and then continue our drive the following morning to Cairns which will take the drive to 4 hours. We will end our road trip in Cairns that has so much to offer, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Melbourne to Cairns drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Melbourne to Cairns. If you're planning a road trip to Cairns, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
The 7 Best Things to See on a Melbourne to Cairns Road Trip ...
Long Road Trip Tips There is an art to great campervan travel and, with 20+ years in the biz, we're like the Monet of road trip travel. Here are some top tricks to get the most of your Melbourne to Cairns getaway. Packing and unpacking on a long roadie can get boring pretty quickly.
3 day itinerary for Drive From Melbourne To Cairns Australia
A road trip from Melbourne to Cairns is an exciting adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Australia. Here's a suggested itinerary for your 3-day drive: covering Albury-Wodonga, Murray River, Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Hunter Valley wine region, Port Macquarie, Byron Bay beach, Gold Coast, Townsville waterfront, Cairns night markets
Melbourne to Cairns inland road trip: Distance, time & best stops
Melbourne to Cairns drive: Barcaldine to Townsville. The next leg of the journey, from Barcaldine to Townsville, is a 631km brute of a drive. Go north towards Aramac, which has a campground, hotel, racecourse and Aquatic Centre. Crucially, the Whitebull Roadhouse is the only fuel stop for a couple of hundred kilometres.
The Ultimate Melbourne To Cairns Road Trip Itinerary
Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary map. During our 36 days in Australia, we covered approximately 4,396km across 3 territories, numerous cities and endless beaches. We started our trip with 5 blissful nights in the CitiClub Hotel Melbourne and after spending over 5 weeks living in a van in New Zealand, we thought we deserved a bit of TLC ...
Melbourne to Cairns: East Coast Road Trip
If you were to drive the entire coastline, you'd cover a total of 16,155mi (26,000km). This is why most travelers choose to drive the east coast. The route covers 2,610mi (4,200km) from the Great Ocean Road (near Melbourne) to Cairns, the best base to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Melbourne to Cairns via Brisbane drive
10:00 am start in Melbourne. drive for about 4.5 hours. 2:29 pm Wagga Wagga. stay for about 1 hour. and leave at 3:29 pm. drive for about 4 hours. 7:39 pm Dubbo. stay overnight and leave the next day around 11:00 am. day 1 driving ≈ 8.5 hours.
Cairns to Melbourne Road Trip: 8 Stops You Must Visit
The Final Stop: Sydney to Melbourne. Stop 8 & 9. Time taken: 9 hours. Distance travelled: 880km. We hope you're planning to spend a few days in Sydney, as your final road trip journey is another long one. With a total of nine more hours in your campervan, you'll likely feel relieved that we offer one-way rentals.
Melbourne to Cairns Road Trip
Last updated on 6 May, 2023. The East Coast of Australia is one of the most travelled road trips. Spectacular coastline, magnificent mountain ranges, unique bushland, the world's largest ocean reef and a mind-boggling array of attractions and activities, a Melbourne to Cairns road trip with your dog is guaranteed to EPIC!
Melbourne to Cairns by road
4 years ago. Hi, I am planning a road trip from Melbourne to Cairns and back this summer. I will be driving solo on my way to Cairns and I plan to take following route: Day 1 - Melbourne to Bourke (1000 kms) - 11 hours. Day 2 - Bourke to Barcaldine (860 kms) - 9 hours. Day 3 - Barcaldine to Cairns (975 kms) - 11 hours.
East Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary and Ultimate Guide
If you aren't pushed for time on your Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary, take the chance to kick back on the beach for a few. Things to do in Agnes Water/ 1770. Take a surf lesson for either $17.70 or $25 (I chose the $25 option, which is allegedly better - saying that, I chose it because it was the only one running in the afternoon ...
Melbourne to Cairns inland road trip: Distance, time & best stops
Attractions between Melbourne and Cairns: Charleville. The 199km from Cunnamulla to Charleville follows the railway line and is phenomenally dull. South of Charleville, the 2,000 hectare Charleville Botanical Reserve offers a 30km 4WD driving route around the regional vegetation. Go in spring to see the desert myrtle turning the landscape pink.
The ultimate family road trip: Melbourne to Brisbane road trip
This ultimate Melbourne to Brisbane Australia road trip itinerary is hands down one of the best road trips from Melbourne and is perfect for an adventurous family planning a campervan adventure. Kicking off in the bustling streets of Melbourne, set the rhythm for your trip with great food, Luna Park carnival fun and laid-back Aussie charm. Then, as the road unwinds, you'll cross paths with ...
Things To Do On a Gold Coast
There's not a huge amount to do here but it's a great central point between Canberra and Melbourne, use the time to relax after days of driving! Day 8: Albury to Melbourne ... Explore top stops for a Darwin to Cairns road trip in a campervan! Enjoy scenic routes, attractions, and hidden gems along the way. 23 Aug magazine.
Melbourne to Cairns via Sydney drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Melbourne to Cairns. If you're planning a road trip to Cairns, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Sydney to Cairns Road Trip
A road trip from Sydney to Cairns is hands-down one of the most iconic trips that you can take through Australia. Spanning more than 2,400km from one city to the other, this drive takes you up the country's stunning east coast. ... 3 Week Melbourne to Cairns Express. 5 Week Sydney To Cairns Ultimate. 1 Week Cairns To Brisbane Budget. 4 Week ...
Melbourne to Cairns
The Leichhardt Way follows in the footsteps of one of Australia's early explorers, Ludwig Leichhardt, and is one of the fastest, and more aesthetically appealing ways to cruise the 32 hours of Queensland Outback between Melbourne and Cairns. This road winds its way through the Outback's lesser-known communities, nudging some of Queensland ...
Melbourne to Cairns inland road trip: Distance, time & best stops
Bourke on a Melbourne to Cairns road trip. From Cobar, plough on north another 160km to Bourke, perhaps via Gundabooka National Park, which offers camping, wildlife, walks and more Aboriginal rock art. The steep 1.4km to major rock art site Yapa (Mulgowan) is the top option for those with limited time. In Bourke, the top attraction is the Back ...
Turns out, the 'end of the world' is a great place to visit
The windswept four-seasons-in-a-day port city, dangling at the bottom of South America, is some 3000 kilometres by road from Buenos Aires - further than driving from Cairns to Melbourne.
Cairns to Melbourne drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Cairns to Melbourne. If you're planning a road trip to Melbourne, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Darwin to Cairns road trip: The ultimate drive guide
Hughenden to Cairns (~530 km): Plenty of petrol stations and chargers approaching Cairns. Your Darwin to Cairns road trip map Road trip essentials: What you need to know before driving from Darwin to Cairns. Before you hit the road for an outback adventure from Darwin to Cairns, there are a few things to keep in mind. Check your car health

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40 Best Stops Between Melbourne and Cairns

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3 day itinerary for Drive From Melbourne To Cairns Australia

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Day 1: Melbourne to Sydney

Day 2: Sydney to Byron Bay

Day 3: Byron Bay to Cairns

Places of interest

Albury-Wodonga

Murray River

Sydney Opera House

Harbour Bridge

Hunter Valley wine region

Port Macquarie

Byron Bay beach

Townsville waterfront

Cairns night markets

The Ultimate Melbourne To Cairns Road Trip Itinerary

Top tours & attractions to experience on a Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary map

Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary summary

Hiring a campervan for our Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 1 to 5 – Melbourne

Day 6 – Toora tourist park

Day 7 – Golden Beach & Cann River

Day 8 – Canberra – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 9 – Bream Beach

Day 10 – Hyams Beach, Bondi Beach, Sydney

Day 11 – Palm Beach & Dee Why Beach

Day 12 – Sydney – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 13 & 14 – Central Coast & Dunleith Tourist Park

Day 15 – Port Macquarie – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 16 – Coffs Harbour

Day 17 & 18 – Byron Bay – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 19 – Gold Coast (Nobby Beach)

Day 20 – Gold Coast – Melbourne to Cairns road trip itinerary

Day 21 & 22 – Beenleigh

Day 23 – Brisbane – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 24 – Glass House Mountains & Beerwah

Day 25 – Australia Zoo & Sunshine Coast

Day 26 – Noosa Heads, Noosa National Park

Day 27 – Hervey Bay – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 28 – 7 hours of driving

Day 29 – Airlie Beach – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 30 – Whitsunday Islands Tour

Day 31 – Drove to Townsville – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 32 – Townsville

Day 33 – Drive to Cairns – Melbourne to Cairns road trip

Day 34 – Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef

Day 35 – Stay at a campsite in Cairns

Day 36 – Cinema & fly to Bali!

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