posted on November 21, 2023
Known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, remote beaches, and the kind of scenery that draws visitors from all corners of the world, a Brisbane to Cairns road trip through the Sunshine State is not to be missed. From the diverse cultures of Brisbane City to the tropical climate and laidback charm of Cairns, there’s much to see and do on this drive.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice, with countless activities on offer. From sandy beaches with pristine waters to scenic walks along the Sunshine Coast that deliver sweeping views of the region, the hardest part of your journey will simply be deciding which places to visit and spend your time.
No matter your travel preferences, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Brisbane to Cairns drive: overview and top tips
- 8-day express Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary
- 14-day Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary
- Top stops between Brisbane and Cairns
An overview of the Brisbane to Cairns road trip
A Brisbane to Cairns road trip will see you travel along Queensland’s tropical Pacific Coast as you find yourself enchanted by the diverse landscapes surrounding you. From sand dunes to picturesque blue waters and lush rainforests, you’re sure to experience it all on this drive. It might not be the longest distance between the two destinations, but this journey certainly packs a lot in terms of activities and detours for sightseeing.
With so many amazing places to discover, we don’t blame you for being impatient to get your adventure on the road! Looking for some quick answers about your Brisbane to Cairns road trip? You’ll find all the answers you need below:
- Distance: approximately 1,679 kilometres (although this will depend on the route and itinerary chosen)
- Drive time: 19 hours and 7 minutes direct via the Bruce Highway (National Highway A1)
- Popular stops: Explore the ocean-front National parks of Australia’s east coast as you make your way from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast. As you continue along your drive, you’ll visit Noosa and Cape Hillsborough National Park, before setting your sights on iconic destinations like Airlie Beach and Townsville as you venture further North. Make your way along the coast to visit Mission Beach and Millaa Millaa Waterfall, before finally arriving in Cairns.
- Scenic delights: The Great Barrier Reef, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, Mission Beach, and the famous Whitehaven Beach to name a few.
The distance from Brisbane to Cairns
Thinking about exploring the abundant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef up close and wondering how far the distance is from Cairns to Brisbane? The most direct route from Brisbane to Cairns is a distance of 1,679 kilometres, along the Bruce Highway.
Keep in mind that travel time will depend on the specific route taken and the detours made along the way.
Brisbane to Cairns drive time
Cairns is situated approximately 19 hours north-west of Brisbane. That said, the exact drive time will depend on the route chosen and how many stops are made along the way. For those wanting to take in the beauty of the region, it’s recommended you take at least eight days to cover the distance.
You can expect to see a range of landscapes as you make the drive from Queensland’s bustling city centre to the idyllic east coast. You’ll trade street views for stunning islands and remote swimming locations, all the while encountering friendly locals and the laidback charm of coastal towns.
Driving conditions: What is the road from Brisbane to Cairns like?
The Brisbane to Cairns road trip offers sealed roads, making for a comfortable journey for your drive.
The Bruce Highway is the main highway connecting Brisbane to Cairns and although well-maintained and paved, road conditions can vary, and there may be potential hazards. Extreme weather events can affect driving conditions, particularly as you head further north from Brisbane and enter more remote locations.
We advise checking road conditions prior to your departure, particularly if you’re travelling during the wet season which frequently sees tropical storms hit the region along with more severe weather. As well as affecting driving conditions, this can also have an impact on the roads. The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads is your best point of contact for reliable information on navigation and any road-related issues.
Petrol stations and EV chargers from Brisbane to Cairns
You’ll find plenty of petrol stations along the Bruce Highway as you make your way from Brisbane to Cairns. Major towns along the route will also serve as places to refuel or stock up on any amenities you need, including Gympie, Maryborough, Rockhampton, Mackay, and Townsville.
If you’re driving an electric vehicle and need to recharge, EV charging stations can also be found along the route, with Chargefox and Tesla Supercharger providing networks across Queensland. The Queensland government has also announced plans to add a further 23 charging locations across the region, serving those travelling from Brisbane to Mount Isa, Goondiwindi to Emerald, and Longreach to Cairns.
That said, it’s worthwhile planning your refuelling and charging stops prior to departure in each town. As you travel further north, you’ll find that charging stations become more sporadic than they are in larger towns and cities, so be sure to plan your route accordingly. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint are also invaluable to EV drivers as they provide real-time information on the location of the next charging points.
What kind of vehicle is best?
The best vehicle for your road trip depends on what you feel most comfortable driving and the places you wish to visit. With the Bruce Highway providing a sealed road for much of the drive, a small car or compact SUV (like the Land Rover Range Rover Sport in my case) can see you through the journey.
However, for families or groups looking to turn the road trip into a two-week adventure, consider a van hire for the convenience of greater comfort and more space. Thankfully, with Turo you can browse a wide selection of vehicles to suit your travel needs and itinerary.
What to bring?
Everyone needs the road trip essentials of snacks and a great playlist, but when embarking on a Brisbane to Cairns road trip, you should also be well-equipped with plenty of water and the essentials of an emergency first aid kit. While the roads are well-maintained and fuel stations can be found throughout the journey, the distance between certain towns can be rather sizeable. It’s important to be prepared for stretches with limited service and ensure you have plenty of fuel before starting the journey.
Given the tropical climate of Cairns and North Queensland and temperatures that can soar during the warmer months, it’s advised to pack loose-fitting clothing to make the most of your time outdoors. Make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and mosquito repellent and wear hiking shoes if you plan on exploring the region or doing one of the incredible hikes.
And if you’re looking to soak up the beauty of the beaches Cairns is known for, why not consider adding on extras like camping gear or beach umbrellas from your helpful local Turo host? This will ensure you’re prepared for whatever the journey throws at you.
Top tips for getting from Brisbane to Cairns
Avoid driving at night
Given the remote location of some areas, it’s best to avoid driving at night. Once the sun sets, the abundant wildlife Queensland is known for becomes active and is often found on or near the road. It’s not uncommon to find kangaroos bounding across the road which can cause great damage to cars and passengers in the event of a collision. To avoid this, ensure you leave adequate time in the morning and leave early to make it to your destination before nightfall.
Ensure you have plenty of gas
The distances required of you to travel during the day on this road trip can be quite vast, often leaving a sizeable gap between service stations. Don’t be caught out low on gas some way from your next refuelling station. Rather, plan ahead and ensure you always are stocked up on gas, as well as basic supplies like water and food.
Explore the outdoors by camping
With its seasonal climate and captivating scenery, there’s no better place to go camping than Queensland. It makes for an adventurous Brisbane to Cairns road trip, particularly when there are a plethora of options along the route, from free camping grounds to affordable ones offering amenities.
Thanks to Turo, you can choose optional extras and consider hiring camping gear like a tent or towels from your local Turo host. You can also hire a campervan and use it as both your form of transport and sleeping accommodation.
Discover the perfect road trip itinerary: Brisbane to Cairns
Ready to hit the road? Choose the perfect Brisbane to Cairns road trip itinerary from our options below.
Route 1: Brisbane to Cairns in 8 days
- Total distance: 1,678 kilometres
- Total driving time: 8 days
Rather than do the 19-hour drive in one go, consider this “express” road trip that ensures you see the key attractions in just eight days. From waterfalls and white sandy beaches to a variety of wildlife, you’ll be glad to take the detours!
This route will take you along the following stops:
- Noosa
- Hervey Bay
- Bundaberg
- Agnes Water
- Airlie Beach
- Townsville
- Mission Beach
- Cairns
Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa
- Distance: 137 kilometres
- Drive time: 2 hours
Ease into your road trip by spending some time exploring the vibrant Brisbane city. Consider taking in the delights of Burleigh Heads and Surfer’s Paradise before making your way to Noosa.
Day 2: Noosa to Hervey Bay
- Distance: 190 kilometres
- Drive time: 2 hours
You’ll be treated to crystal-clear waters as you continue your drive to Hervey Bay. Explore the many enchanting spots along the Sunshine Coast, including a visit to Rainbow Beach and the charming town of Boonooroo. Once in Hervey Bay, take in the sunset over the water.
Day 3: Hervey Bay to Bundaberg
- Distance: 120 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Though only a short drive today, it’ll afford you more time to explore the surroundings of Hervey Bay before making your way to Bundaberg. Consider visiting Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, as tours frequently run out of Hervey Bay.
Day 4: Bundaberg to Agnes Water
- Distance: 122.2 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 23 minutes
Continue your drive along the Capricorn Coast as you head to Agnes Water. You’ll start heading inland where coastal views turn to expansive plains and lush greenery before arriving at Agnes Water.
Given the relatively short drive, you can explore the surroundings or choose to tour the outer Great Barrier Reef or Lady Musgrave Island, with flights running consistently throughout the week.
Day 5: Agnes Water to Airlie Beach
- Distance: 706 kilometres
- Drive time: 7 hours 45 minutes
As one of the longest drives of your journey, this scenic route will take you across diverse landscapes. Consider stopping at the coastal town of Clearview or Mackay before making your way to Airlie Beach. Here, you’ll be treated to picturesque settings as you take in the relaxed atmosphere, blue waters and white sand, as well as the incredibly friendly nature of the locals.
Day 6: Airlie Beach to Townsville
- Distance: 273.6 kilometres
- Drive time: 3 hours 15 minutes
It’s a short day of driving, which means you have options to explore the incredible Whitsunday Islands with a boat trip from Airlie Beach. Alternatively, the Great Barrier Reef can also be accessed from Airlie Beach, while the famous Whitehaven Beach, Magnetic Island and Hamilton Island also command attention.
In Townsville, you’ll find The Strand, which is a promenade with walking tracks and a beach with swimming areas. Relax on the sand or enjoy the local flavours on offer from seaside cafes and restaurants.
Day 7: Townsville to Mission Beach
- Distance: 234.7 kilometres
- Drive time: 3 hours
From Townsville, make your way to Mission Beach as you take in the breathtaking views of Queensland’s incredible beaches. As one of the country’s most iconic beaches, Mission Beach is the perfect spot to relax before your final day of driving.
Day 8: Mission Beach to Cairns
- Distance: 140 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 48 minutes
While it’s sad to see the road trip come to a close, there’s still plenty to discover on the last leg of your travels. Consider a detour to the Gadgarra National Park and Little Mulgrave National Park along the route, or simply spend time in Cairns as you stroll along the Esplanade or head to the Botanic Gardens.
Route 2: Brisbane to Cairns in 14 days
- Total distance:
- Total driving time:
To fully appreciate the beauty of Far North Queensland’s tropical islands and natural beauty, we recommend taking two weeks for this memorable road trip. As well as taking in the lush rainforests and secluded beaches, you’ll also be able to explore at your own pace and experience the beauty of iconic destinations like the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
This drive is the perfect adventure for families looking for a holiday getaway or anyone who simply wants to witness the spectacular scenery of Australia’s east coast.
This 14 day road trip itinerary will take you along the following stops:
- Sunshine Coast
- Noosa
- Fraser Island
- Agnes Water
- Yeppoon
- Airlie Beach
- Whitsundays
- Great Barrier Reef
- Whitehaven Beach
- Mission Beach
- Atherton Tablelands
- Yungaburra
- Cairns
Day 1: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast
- Distance: 102 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Though a short drive, there’s much to see along the way. Consider passing through the Glass House Mountains where you can take in the volcanic peaks with a hike, or visit the popular beachside town of Mooloolaba.
Day 2: Sunshine Coast to Noosa
- Distance: 40 kilometres
- Drive time: 36 minutes
Short but scenic, this drive gives you ample opportunity to take in the stunning resort town with its vibrant arts scene, renowned restaurants, and picturesque beaches.
Top stop: If you’ve got some time to kill after the short drive to Noosa, consider stopping by Noosa Marina. Situated along the Noosa River, you’ll get a great view of the waterfront. If the timing is right, you’ll be able to catch some live music or indulge in the charm of local artisans and vendors at their Sunday markets. Or, if you prefer something different, jump on a boat tour or enjoy a sunset cruise.
Day 3: Noosa to Fraser Island
- Distance: 107 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Take the Bruce Highway as you drive from Noosa to Hervey Bay. Once there, you’ll proceed to the town of River Heads which serves as the departure point for ferries to Fraser Island. Consider staying at River Heads for the night, or you can find camping spots along 75-Mile Beach.
Day 4: Explore Fraser Island
Once at Fraser Island, you’ll be spoiled for choice as far as activities go. Consider visiting Maheno Shipwreck, Indian Head, the Champagne Pools and Lake McKenzie, each of which provides a new perspective of the stunning scenery.
Day 5: Fraser Island to Agnes Water
- Distance: 321 kilometres
- Drive time: 3 hours 40 minutes
You’ll again need to get a ferry back to River Heads, from which point you’ll return to the Bruce Highway to proceed to Agnes Water. Known for its beautiful beaches, the coastal town is known for its pristine waters and exceptional surf.
Day 6: Agnes Water to Yeppoon
- Distance: 267 kilometres
- Drive time: 3 hours 7 minutes
This stunning coastline journey will allow you to explore the Yeppoon Main Beach and neighbouring Great Keppel Island, which can be accessed via ferry. Though small, Yeppoon has a distinctly local flavour with a relaxed atmosphere that is incredibly welcoming.
Day 7: Yeppoon to Airlie Beach
- Distance: 500 kilometres
- Drive time: 5 hours 27 minutes
A lengthy drive, you’ll travel through coastal landscapes before hitting Airlie Beach. Be sure to rest up for a few days of exploring as you find yourself at the gateway to the incredible Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 8: Explore the Whitsundays
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays boast white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and crystal clear waters. You can take a boat charter or go sailing around the various islands, or consider a bushwalk to the Whitsunday Islands National Park where you can go wildlife spotting.
Day 9: Explore the Great Barrier Reef
There’s so much to see when it comes to the great expanse that is the Great Barrier Reef. As one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, you can witness the vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life up close and personal. From scuba diving to snorkeling, helicopter, and seaplane tours, there are plenty of activities that will ensure you make the most of your time here.
Day 10: Explore Whitehaven Beach
Located on Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach is famous for its white silica sand and turquoise waters. Numerous boat tours operate throughout the day, offering cruises and day trips around the region. You can even take a scenic flight over the islands, capturing breathtaking views from above.
Day 11: Airlie Beach to Mission Beach
- Distance: 507 kilometres
- Drive time: 5 hours 51 minutes
At Mission Beach, you’ll find a 14-kilometre stretch of sand that interlinks three beaches and four villages. With breathtaking scenery, it’s not hard to see why it’s the go-to destination for Hollywood elites, with Baz Luhrman choosing the location for his film Australia.
Day 12: Mission Beach to Atherton Tablelands
- Distance: 128 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 38 minutes
With its diverse landscapes and wildlife, the Atherton Tablelands make for a great discovery on any Queensland road trip. You can take a dip in the stunning Lake Eacham and Lake Barrine, which are two crater lakes surrounded by rainforest. Or, visit the picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls.
Day 13: Atherton Tablelands to Yungaburra
- Distance: 39 kilometres
- Drive time: 36 minutes
A short day of driving today so you have ample time to explore the historic town of Yungaburra, with its old buildings, inspiring galleries, and friendly cafes. With markets held on the fourth Saturday of each month, you can experience the local arts and crafts, too.
Day 14: Yungaburra to Cairns
- Distance: 67 kilometres
- Drive time: 1 hour 7 minutes
As your road trip comes to a close, consider making the most of your time in Cairns. From the art gallery to Barron Gorge National Park and the night markets along the Esplanade, you’ll have plenty of entertainment options.
Top stops on the Brisbane to Cairns road trip
From the marine species of the Great Barrier Reef to the lush rainforests of Fraser Island, there’s plenty to explore on your road trip from Brisbane to Cairns. Discover some of our top recommended stops below.
Glass House Mountains
Glass House Mountains, a stunning cluster of volcanic peaks, is located just 70 kilometres north of Brisbane in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. As remnants of volcanic activity from 26 million years prior, these peaks are a breathtaking glimpse into the past. The landscape surrounding the mountains is just as special and speaks to the lush greenery Queensland is known for.
Here, you can follow a number of walking tracks that take you up close to the Glass House Mountains. Each is well-marked and caters to various fitness levels. There are countless lookout points that offer views of the surrounding area, while rock climbing is also on offer.
Port Douglas
The resort town of Port Douglas is situated just 70 kilometres north of Cairns but serves as a great base for those wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Many reef tours will depart from the marina in Port Douglas, where you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, or learn more about the abundant marine life with a boat tour.
There’s no shortage of outdoor wonders to explore, with Flagstaff Hill lookout offering panoramic views of Four Mile Beach and the Coral Sea. You can also venture to Four Mile Beach for a spot of swimming or simply relax on its sandy coastline.
Daintree National Park
Located north of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognised for its biological diversity and ancient rainforest ecosystems. Housing a vast array of plant and animal species, including many rare ones, you’ll find yourself mesmerised by its size and beauty.
Along with guided walks and eco-tours of the area, you can also do a boat tour along the Daintree River that runs through the rainforest. Keep an eye out for various bird species and crocodiles! For those wanting to explore on foot, head to Mossman Gorge – just south of the Daintree River – where you’ll find rainforest walking trails and secluded swimming holes.
The Great Barrier Reef
As one of the world’s most iconic and diverse ecosystems, it would be remiss to make the road trip from Brisbane to Cairns and not experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef – the most famous scenic stop near Cairns. Home to an extraordinary range of marine life that includes over 1,500 fish species and 411 types of hard coral, you’ll find yourself in awe of this coral reef system that’s the largest on the planet.
Stretching over 2,300 kilometres, take a helicopter tour of the reef to fully comprehend the sheer scale. The UNESCO World Heritage Site also offers snorkelling, scuba diving, boat tours and scenic flights, with a focus on educating visitors on research and conservation.
Frequently asked questions about the Brisbane to Cairns drive
Can I get from Brisbane to Cairns by train?
There currently is no direct train running from Brisbane to Cairns, however, it is possible to make the journey with multiple stops. For those looking to travel by train, the ‘Spirit of Queensland’ is a long-distance service operated by Queensland Rail and offers seating and sleeping accommodations.
This train stops at multiple towns and cities along the way, with the journey typically taking 24 hours. So, while you can travel between the two cities by train, you won’t have the convenience of travelling at your own pace that a car hire affords, nor will you be able to take the detours to see all the incredible sights of the east coast.
Can I get a flight from Brisbane to Cairns?
You can fly from Brisbane to Cairns. Brisbane and Cairns have airports that are well-connected with regular flights. Taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, the flights will see you travel from Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Cairns Airport (CNS).
Are the roads between Brisbane and Cairns sealed?
Yes. You’ll find the drive from Brisbane to Cairns a pleasant experience thanks to sealed roads running the length of the journey.
Is the Brisbane to Cairns road trip worth it?
The Brisbane to Cairns road trip is most definitely worth doing – this drive is the experience of a lifetime through unique and breathtaking areas of North Queensland.
What is the best time of year to travel from Brisbane to Cairns?
The best time to travel from Brisbane to Cairns will largely depend on your travel preferences and the activities you wish to do. However, given that the wet season in Far North Queensland can experience extensive rainfall and even dangerous cyclones, it’s recommended that you undertake your road trip during the dry season.
Though both Brisbane and Cairns experience a year-round tropical climate, cyclones and storms during the wet season can make for a turbulent driving experience. Aside from potential road closures, flooding in both towns and cities in the north isn’t unheard of. If you want to make your way to the Great Barrier Reef too, such trips will likely be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Running from May to October, the dry season promises less rainfall and makes for a far more comfortable travel experience. Even so, it’s important to stay up-to-date on road conditions throughout the year and ensure you’re prepared for anything come travel time.
Keep the road trip going! Once you’re back in Brisbane, why not tackle the Brisbane to Sydney drive next? Or, check out our full list of the best road trips from Brisbane.
Want to take on the Brisbane to Cairns drive in style? With Turo, you can find the perfect ride for your journey. If you’re starting your road trip to Cairns from Brisbane (or vice versa), let Turo connect you with the perfect vehicle for your trip.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
