Australia’s East Coast is a treasure trove for road-tripping adventurers. Along the sun-drenched roads, you’ll encounter breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, lush rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef, and an abundance of native wildlife. There are driving routes to suit any style, whether you’re seeking long-haul adventures or specific must-see experiences. So pack your surfboard, hiking boots, and an appetite for exploration, and hit the East Coast road.
The Great Barrier Reef Drive – Cairns to Cape Tribulation
(1 week)
By undertaking this journey, you’ll travel along the coast in far-north Queensland, passing charming old towns and luxurious resort hubs that offer stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef. Starting from Cairns, a snorkeling or diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must. Following your aquatic adventures, explore the city’s botanical gardens, trendy restaurants, and lively bars.
Afterward, you can head inland via gondola cableway or scenic railway to Kuranda and enjoy rainforest walks and renowned markets—don’t forget to try some macadamia nuts! Be sure to take detours to the picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls and embark on a rainforest hike in the stunning Wooroonooran National Park.
On Cairns’ northern beaches, unwind at a luxurious Palm Cove resort, then stop at Rex Lookout above Wangetti Beach for a memorable photo opportunity. Your next destination is Port Douglas, a vibrant holiday hub filled with fantastic eateries, bars, and additional options for reef excursions.
At Mossman Gorge, the lush rainforest (a UNESCO World Heritage site) surrounds the picturesque Mossman River—consider taking a guided walk and refreshing yourself in a waterhole. At the Daintree River, join a crocodile-spotting cruise followed by lunch in Daintree Village. Cow Bay, nearby, awaits you for a few hours of beachcombing. Your final stop is Cape Tribulation, where rainforest meets reef in a spectacular fashion. Consider spending a few nights in one of the upscale lodges nestled in the rainforest here.
A Tale of Two Cities – Brisbane to the Gold Coast
(7-10 days)
Feel your worries dissolve as you venture out from the vibrant city of Brisbane into the relaxed surf towns and northern New South Wales of the Gold Coast. Before departing Brisbane, it’s advisable to spend a couple of days experiencing Queensland’s river-city capital, characterized by its excellent bars, cafes, and bookstores.
Don’t overlook the impressive Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), the Brisbane Powerhouse arts center, and the vibrant craft-beer bars hosting live music in West End. Make some time for a night out in the lively Fortitude Valley, and consider a ferry trip to North Stradbroke Island for surfing, sea kayaking, and delicious fish-and-chips on the beach. Once back on the mainland, head west to the Granite Belt region, famous for its cool-climate wineries and stunning rock formations in Girraween National Park.
Just an hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast reveals its vibrant, sun-soaked charm. The highlight here is the bustling Surfers Paradise, known for its energetic atmosphere and nightlife. For a more tranquil experience, visit Burleigh Heads or the laid-back Coolangatta. Venturing a quick 50-minute drive south into New South Wales leads you to the alternative lifestyle paradise of Byron Bay, famous for its stunning beaches, attractive accommodations, and delectable cuisine. The local vibe is so magnetic that many travelers who visit Byron Bay often end up staying longer than planned.
The Great Beach Drive – Sunshine Coast & Fraser Island
(10 days)
If your road trip vision includes exhilarating outdoor adventures, then the aptly named Sunshine Coast in southeast Queensland is your ideal destination. Start by exploring the intriguing landscapes of the Glass House Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and fantastic rock climbing opportunities. Close by is the engaging Australia Zoo, a fantastic stop whether you’re traveling with children or not.
Your next stop, Mooloolaba, boasts solid surf and cheerful beach vibes along with fresh local catches like “Mooloolaba King” prawns. A half-hour further north brings you to Noosa, famous for its lush national park (where koalas are sometimes spotted), exciting river kayaking, and an excellent culinary scene.
Continuing a couple of hours north, you’ll arrive at the stunning Rainbow Beach, a hub for surfing, fishing, paragliding, hiking, skydiving, horse riding, and much more. From this point, take on the expansive sand dunes, beach “highways,” bushwalks, and azure lakes on the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island—the largest sand island on Earth (4WD rental is essential, or opt for a guided tour).
As you head south, don’t miss historic Maryborough, the birthplace of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers, and explore Tin Can Bay, known for its remarkable marine wildlife, including sea turtles and dugongs.
Offshore Adventure – Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island
(10 days)
While road trips and islands may not seem a typical combination, Queensland offers such a wealth of offshore experiences that you can enjoy an extensive exploration in one journey connected by unforgettable coastal drives.
Your adventure begins in Airlie Beach, where you can immerse yourself in a vibrant backpacker scene before taking a boat trip to the stunning Whitsunday Islands archipelago. While there are numerous day-trip options, a multiday sailing excursion allows for relaxation on remote beaches often devoid of other visitors. Make sure to visit Whitsunday Island and swim at the mesmerizing Whitehaven Beach, frequently regarded as Australia’s most beautiful.
Once you’ve thoroughly enjoyed the islands, consider spending a few nights at luxurious offshore resorts on Hamilton, Hayman, or Daydream islands. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, opt for an overnight kayaking trip with camping on one of the islands.
Next, make your way about three hours north to Townsville. Here, stroll along the waterfront, explore the incredible Reef HQ Aquarium, climb Castle Hill, and indulge in Townsville’s vibrant culinary scene (seafood is a must!). Experienced divers can also opt for a dive excursion to see the notorious wreck of the SS Yongala
Conclude your journey on Magnetic Island, a charming island with relaxed beach communities, diverse wildlife, and numerous picturesque hiking trails.
A Little Bit of Everything – Sydney to Melbourne
(1 week)
Now, as you move away from Queensland’s rugged beauty, the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne presents a wealth of national parks, surf beaches, ocean wildlife, and charming small-town atmospheres.
Sydney, being Australia’s largest city, is packed with iconic sites such as the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and ferry rides to Manly, in addition to the bustling hub of Bondi Beach. Just south lies the dramatic cliffs and scenic trails of Royal National Park along with the breathtaking Grand Pacific Drive that offers sweeping ocean views.
In Jervis Bay, visitors are welcomed by stunning white-sand beaches, playful dolphins, and flourishing national parks. A quick inland detour will take you to Australia’s capital, Canberra, where you can explore Parliament House and visit the country’s premier museums.
The coastal town of Narooma presents attractive beaches and great surf opportunities. From here, you can take a ferry to Montague Island, significant for its Aboriginal heritage and as a nature reserve. On New South Wales’ southern coast, the tranquil town of Eden is famous for whale watching, while the charming Central Tilba offers a picturesque countryside setting.
Once you cross into Victoria, you will navigate through lush forests and farms in the Gippsland Lakes district towards Wilsons Promontory, well-known for its delightful camping, hiking, and stunning beaches. Beyond this lies Phillip Island, where penguins, seals, and surfers alike bask in the coastal tide. Ultimately, your journey concludes in the vibrant city of Melbourne.
Southern Coastal Classic – Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road
(7-10 days)
This quintessential road trip embarks south from sophisticated Melbourne along the ruggedly beautiful Great Ocean Road. Expect lovely beach towns, fantastic surfing opportunities, and spectacular landscapes. Melbourne itself has a plethora of attractions to keep visitors entertained for months on end, including laneway bars, art galleries, live music venues, shopping districts, coffee culture, and the excitement of Australian Rules football. However, don’t miss the chance to venture south on the Great Ocean Road.
Your adventure begins in the surfing hotspot of Torquay, where you can catch some waves at iconic Bells Beach. From here, transition to the family-friendly Anglesea for surf lessons and riverside picnics. Just around the corner is Aireys Inlet, where you can tour the lighthouse before spending the night in the charming town of Lorne.
As you head west, the Great Ocean Road twists and turns between the crashing surf and the lush forests of the Otway Ranges. Consider unwinding in the artsy fishing village of Apollo Bay for a few days (known for its great pub!) before taking a detour to Cape Otway, where you can spot koalas and the historic lighthouse.
Your next destination is Port Campbell National Park, home to the world-famous Twelve Apostles rock formation. Get a bird’s-eye view from the clifftops or opt for a scenic flight to take in the impressive coastline. Keep an eye out for whales off the coast of Warrnambool, and then continue your journey to the quaint town of Port Fairy, where the annual folk festival in March transforms the town into a lively hub.
This article was first published Nov 28, 2016, and updated Sep 24, 2020.
