posted on December 14, 2023
With some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, ancient rainforests and national parks along the way, Australia’s East Coast makes for a bucket list road trip. Whether you’re a surfer, foodie, culture seeker or adrenaline junkie, there’s something to keep every interest satisfied with these epic East Coast Australia road trip itineraries.
East Coast Australia road trip: An overview
This road trip route hugs the East Coast of Australia. At one end in tropical Northern Queensland is Cairns, and at the other is New South Wales capital, the iconic city of Sydney.
- Driving time: 36 hours
- Driving distance: 2,800km
- Route options:
- Scenic express route (10 days)
- Coastal explorer route (21 days)
- Recommended road trip length: While you can drive directly from Cairns to Sydney in 36 hours, it’s best to break up the solid driving time over a few weeks. Australia is a huge country with so many incredible stops along the East Coast, so we recommend at least 10 days to complete this itinerary.
- Best time to drive: During the Australian spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with lower chances of extreme heat or heavy rainfall. Driving during daylight hours will also prevent your chance of colliding with wildlife sharing the roads, who will often be more active at dawn, dusk and after dark.
- Top stops along the way:
- Cairns: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers lush rainforests and the opportunity to explore the incredible reef.
- Magnetic Island: Known for its laid-back vibe and abundant wildlife, Magnetic Island is a paradise off the coast of Queensland.
- Whitsunday Islands: Some of the most stunning beaches await you on the Whitsunday Islands. Explore the crystal-clear turquoise waters by boat, or with a snorkel.
- Fraser Island: The world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can explore and venture along the iconic 75-Mile Beach.
- Noosa Heads: Discover stylish boutiques, fine dining, and the picturesque Noosa National Park with its coastal trails and stunning views.
- Brisbane: Queensland’s capital city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options along the Brisbane River, and a mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks.
- Gold Coast: Paradise for surfers and theme park enthusiasts, the Gold Coast boasts long beaches, world-class surfing spots, and a lively entertainment scene.
- Byron Bay: The hippie capital of Australia, this New South Wales town is famed for its laid-back vibe, vibrant cultural scene and iconic walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of mainland Australia.
- Sydney: No trip to Australia is complete without a trip to this iconic city. Home of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Bondi Beach.
East Coast Australia road trip itineraries
Whether you opt for 10 days or multiple weeks, these two East Coast Australia road trip itineraries will take you from Australia’s most iconic harbour city to the lush rainforest of Tropical North Queensland.
Route 1: 10-day express scenic route
This ten-day road trip route will take less than two weeks to complete, and you’ll tick off many must-see attractions along Australia’s East Coast.
- Driving time: 36 hours across ten days
- Driving distance: 2,800km
- Best for: Those who need an East Coast itinerary that hits all the major must-see attractions in the most efficient route possible. Perfect for travellers seeking a mix of vibrant city life, coastal beauty, and iconic landmarks along the East Coast of Australia.
Day-by-day itinerary
- Day 1: Sydney to Port Macquarie
- Drive Time: 4 hours (400 km)
- Highlights: Once you’ve got your snaps in front of the Sydney Opera House, head to Icebergs Pool at Bondi Beach for a refreshing swim and sauna before leaving the city behind. Start your East Coast road trip with a drive to Port Macquarie, enjoying the scenic coastal views along the way, then make a beeline for the Koala Hospital. It’s the world’s first rehab facility dedicated to protecting and conserving wild Koalas.
- Day 2: Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour
- Drive Time: 3 hours (330 km)
- Highlights: Check out the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre in Port Macquarie before heading to Coffs Harbour. Big and little kids alike will enjoy the Big Banana, a banana-themed amusement park, or you can take it easy on one of the beautiful East Coast beaches.
- Day 3: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay
- Drive Time: 2.5 hours (240 km)
- Highlights: A short drive will see you arrive in the laid-back town of Byron Bay. Take a stroll around its trendy boutiques and discover its delicious foodie scene. Spend days surfing along Main Beach or Wategoes Beach, relaxing on the sand, walking to the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse, and watching for dolphins.
- Day 4: Byron Bay to Gold Coast
- Drive Time: 1.5 hours (100 km)
- Highlights: Cross the border from New South Wales into Queensland as you reach your next stop on the Gold Coast. You’ll find more beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and theme parks like Dreamworld and Warner Bros Movie World.
Tip from the author: If you’re headed to Byron Bay, check out our comprehensive drive guide that starts in Sydney and take you all the way to Byron.
- Day 5: Gold Coast to Brisbane
- Drive Time: 1 hour (80 km)
- Highlights: Discover the buzzy cultural scene in Brisbane. The South Bank Parklands is a must-see, offering pristine Parklands, a picturesque pool, free barbecues and dozens of eateries dotted throughout.
- Day 6: Brisbane to Noosa
- Drive Time: 2 hours (140 km)
- Highlights: Enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere of Noosa. Hastings Street sits just behind Noosa Main Beach and boasts boutiques, bars and restaurants. Nature lovers can walk through the National Park, which hugs the East Coast coastline.
- Check out our full Brisbane to Noosa drive guide here.
- Day 7: Noosa to Hervey Bay
- Drive Time: 3 hours (290 km)
- Highlights: Head to Hervey Bay and stretch your legs at The Esplanade, a great place to get your steps up and enjoy the picturesque views. Or take advantage of the convenient gateway location and take a sightseeing tour of Fraser Island, where you’ll experience Eli Creek, a natural lazy river, and the rainwater-filled Lake McKenzie.
- Day 8: Hervey Bay to Airlie Beach
- Drive Time: 6 hours (550 km)
- Highlights: Set off in the early morning to tackle the longer leg of your journey, which will all feel worthwhile when you see the stunning sight of Airlie Beach. Book one of the many sailing trips to explore the world-class beaches of the Whitsunday Islands and take it all in.
- Day 9: Airlie Beach to Townsville
- Drive Time: 3 hours (280 km)
- Highlights: While in Townsville, check out the cultural attractions like the Museum of Tropical Queensland and the Strand waterfront. Or take a short ferry ride to Magnetic Island, an untouched East Coast paradise of koalas, hiking trails and snorkelling adventures.
- Day 10: Townsville to Cairns
- Drive Time: 4 hours (350 km)
- Highlights: Conclude your epic East Coast road trip to Cairns, where you can explore the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world. For some incredible seafood, don’t miss Prawn Star, a floating restaurant that serves fresh and local seafood straight off the trawler. Plus, don’t miss a trip to the nearby Fitzroy Island or Cape Tribulation.
Route 2: 21-day coastal explorer route
If you have a little more time to spare, take your Australia road trip to the next level with this three-week road trip of the East Coast.
- Driving time: 50 hours
- Driving distance: 4,000km
- Best for: A full exploration of the East Coast’s diverse attractions. This itinerary provides a new destination to explore almost every day, perfect for those seeking a mix of urban exploration, coastal beauty, and the best the East Coast of Australia offers.
Week-by-week itinerary:
- Week 1: Sydney to Brisbane
- Drive time and distance: 9 hours 30 minutes, 910km direct
- Stops along the way:
- Newcastle: Explore the vibrant city’s architecture and street art, or visit the Newcastle Memorial Walk for panoramic views.
- Port Macquarie: Enjoy coastal walks and visit the Koala Hospital to have a close encounter with some furry friends. Why not check out our local guide to the best things to do in Port Macquarie for a complete list?
- Coffs Harbour: Experience the Big Banana and explore the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
- Byron Bay: Embrace the surf culture, stroll along pristine beaches, and visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse.
- Gold Coast: Enjoy the beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. The Gold Coast is home to some of the best rooftop bars on the East Coast, like The Island Rooftop in Surfers Paradise and Aviary Rooftop Bar in Southport.
Looking for a comprehensive Sydney to Brisbane road trip itinerary? We have you covered!
- Week 2: Brisbane to Airlie Beach
- Drive time and distance: 12 hours 35 minutes, 1,127km direct
- Stops along the way:
- Noosa: Relax on the beautiful beaches, shop on Hastings Street and indulge in the local cuisine. Bang Bang is a popular spot that serves Southeast Asian cuisine.
- Hervey Bay: Use it as a base for exploring Fraser Island or taking a whale-watching tour.
- Bundaberg: Visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre and enjoy the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.
- Rockhampton: Discover the heritage architecture and explore the Capricorn Caves.
- Mackay: Explore the stunning Eungella National Park and visit the Platypus Beach.
- Airlie Beach: Experience the vibrant atmosphere, take a sailing trip to the Whitsundays, and relax on the Airlie Beach Lagoon.
- Week 3: Airlie Beach to Cairns
- Drive time and distance: 7 hours 27 minutes, 619km direct
- Stops along the way:
- Townsville: Explore the Reef HQ Aquarium and stroll along the Strand waterfront.
- Mission Beach: Relax on the golden beaches and explore the nearby rainforests.
- Innisfail: Discover the art deco architecture and explore the Josephine Falls.
- Cairns: Conclude your East Coast road trip in Cairns, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, taking the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and visiting the Cairns Esplanade.
But why stop here? Keep your road trip going by taking the Cairns to Mission Beach drive next.
Top places to stop on your East Coast road trip
If you want to plan your own East Coast road trip itinerary, start by following your interests. With top attractions for surfers, nature lovers, foodies, culture seekers and adrenaline junkies, you can choose your own East Coast adventure to suit whatever you’re into.
For surfers
There’s definitely some East Coast/ West Coast rivalry when it comes to the best surf spots. But at these stunning beaches, you won’t be disappointed.
- Manly Beach: A renowned surf spot near Sydney, Manly Beach offers consistent waves and a lively beach culture.
- Surfers Paradise: As the name suggests, this Gold Coast destination is a haven for surfers, boasting golden beaches and fantastic breaks.
- Bondi Beach: Iconic Bondi Beach in Sydney is a world-famous surf destination, attracting surfers from around the globe.
Tip from the author: Looking for a truly iconic surfing spot? Head to Crescent Head, located on NSW’s Mid-North Coast. This sleepy coastal village has a rich surfing culture, with a dedicated surfing reserve perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
For nature lovers
Historic rainforests and breathtaking landscapes can be found all along the East Coast Australia map.
- Magnetic Island: Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island, with its famous Horseshoe Bay, offers untouched natural beauty and serene landscapes.
- Whitsunday Islands: Home to the breathtaking Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands arguably provide some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast.
- Hamilton Island: Part of the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island is known for its coral reefs and stunning tropical scenery.
- Great Barrier Reef: A natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. Don’t miss the chance to try snorkellig or scuba diving in this epic underwater world.
- Fraser Island: Beyond its long sandy beaches, Fraser Island boasts Rainbow Beach, Eli Creek’s natural lazy river, and the pristine Lake McKenzie.
- Blue Mountains: A couple of hours outside Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a dramatic landscape with deep valleys, waterfalls, and eucalyptus forests.
- Noosa Heads National Park: An East Coast gem, it combines scenic coastal walks with the beauty of Noosa’s beaches.
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: For a wildlife encounter, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary near Brisbane allows you to get up close with some of Australia’s cutest residents.
- Royal Botanic Gardens: Found in cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Brisbane, these gardens provide a peaceful escape from the city centre.
For foodies
Turn your road trip along the East Coast of Australia into a foodie trail, savouring must-try dishes along the way.
- Byron Bay: Soak up the lively atmosphere at some of Byron’s foodie hotspots including: The Med- inspired diner at boutique hotel Rae’s, and The Farm, a paddock-to-plate restaurant set in an 80-acre working farm twenty minutes outside Byron Bay.
- Noosa: Hastings Street hosts buzzy restaurants like Bang Bang and Aromas, which has cafe-style seating on the pavement that makes it perfect for people watching. For luxury waterside dining, Ricky’s is also well worth a look.
- Sydney: A haven for food lovers, there’s a plate for every taste in Sydney. Try Icebergs or Catalina for fine dining by the water, Cafe Sydney for unrivalled harbour views, or Bar Copains in Surry Hills for great small plates and wine selections.
Top stop: Looking for a standout food stop along your east coast drive? Visit Âpé Yakitori Bar in Newcastle, the area’s first Nikkei restaurant. Blending Japanese and South American flavours, they offer charcoal-cooked dishes, amazing cocktails, and Newcastle’s largest selection of Japanese whisky and sake, all with stunning views of the Newcastle Harbour precinct.
For culture seekers
Culture vultures will find their fix of art and theatre along the East Coast. Here are some highlights to look out for:
- Sydney Opera House: An iconic architectural masterpiece, the Sydney Opera House hosts world-class performances against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.
- Circular Quay: A hub of cultural activities in Sydney, Circular Quay is home to museums, art galleries, street performers, and stunning views of the harbour.
- Port Douglas: Delve into indigenous experiences in Port Douglas, exploring the vibrant cultural heritage of the Daintree region.
For adrenaline junkies
If relaxing on the beach isn’t your thing, get your heart racing with one of these adrenaline-fuelled adventures:
- Gold Coast Theme Parks: Experience the thrill of roller coasters and water slides in the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks.
- Fraser Island 4×4: Navigate the sandy terrain of Fraser Island with a 4×4* adventure, combining adrenaline with the island’s natural wonders.
- Great Barrier Reef: For the adventurous, diving or snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef is one of the must-do attractions on the East Coast.
East Coast of Australia trip: Frequently asked questions
What are the best road trips from Brisbane?
From Brisbane, there are a number of popular road trip routes. Try the scenic drive to the Sunshine Coast to discover pristine beaches and the charming town of Noosa.
Or, journey to the Gold Coast, famous for its vibrant nightlife, theme parks, and golden beaches.
The inland route to the picturesque Granite Belt wine region, known for its wineries, national parks, and stunning landscapes, is another great option.
What are the best road trips from Sydney?
There are great, short road trips from Sydney, perfect if you don’t have heaps of time. Some of the best include the trip to the Blue Mountains for breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
The coastal drive to Royal National Park, known for its scenic coastal cliffs, beaches, and bush walks, is another favourite for a day trip.
Or journey to the Hunter Valley, a renowned wine region with vineyards, cellar doors, and gourmet dining.
What is the driving time and distance from Melbourne to Cairns?
The driving time and distance from Melbourne to Cairns is approximately 3,250 km via the Pacific Highway. The driving time can vary depending on the specific route taken and road conditions but expect a direct road trip to take around 35 to 40 hours of driving time.
Is it worth driving along Australia’s East Coast?
Absolutely. Driving along the East Coast of Australia is one of the best road trips Australia has to offer, with diverse landscapes and must-see attractions. You can explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, relax on pristine white sand beaches, and experience the Gold Coast’s vibrant atmosphere.
The tropical beauty of North Queensland, the hiking trails in Noosa National Park, and the ancient Daintree National Park are best experienced when taking the route at your own pace. Best yet, in your own Turo car or camper van, you’ll have ample opportunity to stop and stare when you spot wild koalas.
Final advice for an East Coast drive of a lifetime
Armed with flexible itineraries, it’s time to embark on an East Coast drive of a lifetime. Start browsing vehicles available from Turo hosts in Sydney, Cairns and everywhere in between.
Hiring a car through Turo is easy, so you could be hitting the East Coast roads even sooner than you think. Whether you pick your car up in Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns or anywhere in between, get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
*Note: You cannot take your Turo hire car off-road for 4×4 driving in Australia.
Lucinda Starr
Lucinda is a Sydney-based content specialist and avid road tripper. Having travelled across Asia, North America and the South Pacific, she's experienced everything from glamping in a Yurt in -30 degrees in The Yukon, snorkelling in the open seas of Vanuatu and hiking the rocky alps of Kamikochi in Japan. She's currently planning her next overseas adventure, a toss-up between a classic #EuroSummer or a multi-day trek through Nepal.
