posted on June 4, 2024
If you’re looking for a road trip that delivers breathtaking scenery, secluded beaches, and sprawling national parks, you’ve got to make a Queensland road trip your next adventure. With its lush rainforests and abundant wildlife that draw travellers from all over the world, the Sunshine State offers diverse landscapes, a tropical climate, and a thriving cultural scene complete with renowned cafes and restaurants.
With so many options available, the hardest part is choosing which places to visit and which route to drive. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate itinerary of 15 of the best Queensland road trips.
Queensland is famous for its road trips
With diverse landscapes that range from sand dunes and sparkling blue waters to lush rainforests and greenery, Queensland is a destination that’s known for its natural beauty and epic scenery. It makes it a great starting point for any road trip as you’ll traverse roads that take you through some of Australia’s most iconic sights, landmarks, and natural attractions.
With sealed and well-maintained roads throughout the region, a Queensland road trip also makes for a comfortable driving experience. You’ll find petrol stations and EV chargers conveniently located throughout the region, while camping options are also abundant for those who want the chance to sleep under the stars.
From visiting iconic Australian destinations like the Great Barrier Reef, the vibrant Gold Coast, and the beautiful Whitsunday Islands to enjoying adventures like hiking in the hinterland or birdwatching, Queensland is the perfect base to explore it all.
15 Queensland road trips you need to experience
From sand dunes and picturesque blue waters to lush rainforests and vibrant nightlife, you’ll experience it all on a Queensland road trip. We’ve rounded up 15 of the very best Queensland road trips that are sure to satisfy your craving for adventure and natural beauty.
1. Brisbane to Gold Coast loop
- Driving time: 3 hours 6 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 216 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Surfers Paradise: 77.7 kilometres, 1 hour 9 minutes
- Surfers Paradise to Broadbeach: 4.1 kilometres, 11 minutes
- Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads: 10.9 kilometres, 19 minutes
- Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta: 18.3 kilometres, 19 minutes
- Coolangatta to Gold Coast Hinterland: 24.8 kilometres, 23 minutes
- Gold Coast Hinterland to Brisbane: 79.7 kilometres, 54 minutes
- Top stops: Surfers Paradise Beach, SkyPoint Observation Deck, Kurrawa Beach, Burleigh Head National Park, Burleigh Pavillion, Point Danger Lookout, Tamborine Mountain, and Springbrook National Park.
- Best for: Surfers who want a weekend getaway that takes in all the top sights while allowing plenty of time to explore the outdoors and savour the scenery.
As road trips go, it doesn’t get more iconic than a Brisbane to Gold Coast journey. This scenic adventure takes in all the top attractions, from Surfers Paradise Beach where you can enjoy a surf, to Burleigh Heads with its renowned surfing conditions and Burleigh Head National Park offering stunning coastal views.
Top stop: After a day of surfing and exploring Burleigh Heads National Park, unwind with a visit to Miami Marketta, just a short 10-minute drive away. This bustling night market is renowned for street food from around the world, live music, and a charming artsy vibe.
In Coolangatta, make sure you visit Point Danger Lookout to learn more about the rich history of the area which delivers panoramic views of the surrounding Coolangatta Beach and coastline. Once in the Gold Coast Hinterland, you’ll find yourself mesmerised by the greenery and countless walking trails. We recommend Springbrook National Park where you can hike to incredible lookouts and discover the breathtaking waterfalls, and Tamborine Mountain with its rainforest skywalk and local wineries.
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2. Great Barrier Reef drive
- Driving time: 2 hours 40 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 137 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cairns to Great Barrier Reef
- Cairns to Palm Cove: 25.4 kilometres, 27 minutes
- Palm Cove to Port Douglas: 42.3 kilometres, 45 minutes
- Port Douglas to Mossman: 20.6 kilometres, 20 minutes
- Mossman to Daintree Rainforest: 48.7 kilometres, 1 hour 8 minutes
- Top stops: Cape Tribulation, Daintree Discovery Centre, Mossman Gorge, Rex Smeal Park, Port Douglas Marina, Palm Cove Jetty, Four Mile Beach, the Great Barrier Reef, and Cairns Esplanade.
- Best for: Nature lovers looking for the perfect mix of rainforest exploration, walking trails, and beachside relaxation.
As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll begin your journey in Cairns before taking a day trip to the reef where you can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, diving, or learning more about conservation efforts in the region with a glass-bottom boat tour. Typically departing in the early morning, tours run consistently throughout the year and can be booked online.
After you’ve experienced the magic of the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll begin your road trip with a visit to Palm Cove where you can relax on the beach and take in the tranquil setting with a stroll along Palm Cove jetty. At Port Douglas, you’ll be able to visit Four Mile Beach which is known for its 6.4-kilometre stretch of pristine sand and clear waters. At Mossman, explore the Mossman Gorge Centre where you can take a guided Dreamtime Walk and learn more about the rich Indigenous culture of the area.
The Daintree Rainforest will also prove to be a highlight, offering river cruises where you can spot crocodiles and other wildlife as well as interactive displays, aerial walkways, and canopy towers to take in the incredible scenery. Consider taking a detour to Cape Tribulation where you’ll be treated to walking trails and panoramic views of where the rainforest meets the reef.
Tip from the author: When visiting beaches in Queensland such as Four Mile Beach, take note of the season. Marine stinger season typically runs from November to May, and while you can swim at this time it’s advised that you only swim within the designated stinger nets and wear protective suits.
3. Sunshine Coast Hinterland adventure
- Driving time: 3 hours 23 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 251 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Noosa Heads: 151 kilometres, 2 hours 9 minutes
- Noosa Heads to Eumundi and Montville: 59.4 kilometres, 54 minutes
- Montville to Maleny: 14.6 kilometres, 16 minutes
- Maleny to Glass House Mountains: 25.8 kilometres, 28 minutes
- Top stops: Noosa National Park, Noosa Main Beach, Eumundi markets, Montville Village, Maleny Dairy, Gardner’s Falls, Glass House Mountains Lookout, Mount Ngungun hike, and Australia Zoo.
- Best for: Adventurers seeking diverse landscapes including sprawling national parks and relaxing beach waters.
This road trip offers a mix of coastal beauty, scenic hinterland, lush greenery, and charming villages renowned for their hospitality and delicious produce. Along with plenty of boutique stalls and cafes, you’ll also have your pick of outdoor activities. From coastal trails located in Noosa National Park to the Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World where you can stroll through landscapes gardens and take in the aviary with its wide range of exotic and native birds, this road trip will heighten your senses with plenty of things to do and panoramic views to take in at every turn.
4. Outback adventure: Longreach and Winton
- Driving time: 6 hours 44 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 627 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Longreach to Ilfracombe: 27 kilometres, 20 minutes
- Ilfracombe to Winton: 206 kilometres, 2 hours 11 minutes
- Winton to Barcaldine: 286 kilometres, 3 hours 2 minutes
- Barcadine to Blackall: 107 kilometres, 1 hour 10 minutes
- Top stops: Barcaldine Historical Museum, Australian Workers Heritage Centre, Tree of Knowledge, Waltzing Matilda Centre, Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Langenbaker House, Thomson River Cruise, and Longreach Powerhouse Museum.
- Best for: History buffs and cultural enthusiasts who want to discover more about the unique history of the region, while still seeing plenty of attractions and soaking up the natural beauty of Queensland.
This Outback adventure takes you through the heartland of Australia and, not surprisingly, there’s just as much to discover about its unique history as there are sights to see. In Longreach, you can explore the iconic Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame which pays tribute to Australia’s outback heritage. Enjoy a cruise along the Thomson River and bush dinner before heading to Ilfracombe where you’ll soak up its lively atmosphere.
In Winton, you can visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre which is dedicated to Banjo Paterson’s song as you learn more about the folklore, while Barcaldine houses the Tree of Knowledge which is a unique site commemorating the birthplace of the Australian Labor Party.
5. Tropical North Queensland explorer
- Driving time: 7 hours 23 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 553 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cairns to Kuranda: 29.2 kilometres, 43 minutes
- Kuranda to Atherton Tablelands: 245 kilometres, 3 hours 7 minutes
- Atherton Tablelands to Mission Beach: 251 kilometres, 3 hours 12 minutes
- Mission Beach to Tully: 28.5 kilometres, 25 minutes
- Top stops: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Tully Sugar Mill, Golden Gumboot, Tully Gorge National Park, Paronella Park, Millaa Millaa Falls Circuit, Barron Falls, and Cairns Esplanade.
- Best for: Adventure seekers looking to soak up Queensland’s stunning landscapes and panoramic views in the outdoors.
This road trip will delight the senses as you take in lush rainforests, white sandy beaches, and sprawling national parks along the way. As you drive to Kuranda, you’ll be treated to the scenic Kuranda Range Road with its windy turns and lush greenery.
At Atherton Tablelands, visit the incredible waterfall circuit known as Millaa Milla Falls before making the journey to Mission Beach, which has stunning palm trees and tranquil waters. You can also make a detour to the nearby Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation, where you’ll learn more about the local cassowary population.
6. Fraser Coast adventure
- Driving time: 11 hours 21 minutes
- Driving distance: 390 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Hervey Bay to Fraser Island: 131 kilometres, 4 hours 53 minutes
- Fraser Island to Maryborough: 147 kilometres, 5 hours 6 minutes
- Maryborough to Bundaberg: 111 kilometres, 1 hour 19 minutes
- Bundaberg to Lady Elliot Island
- Top stops: Lady Elliot Island, Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, Bundaberg Rum Distillery, The Pinnacles, Maheno Shipwreck, 75 Mile Beach, Eli Creek, and Champagne Pools.
- Best for: Beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice on this road trip, with plenty of unique experiences to be had outdoors.
Renowned for its cultural heritage and natural beauty, the Fraser Coast road trip is a must for anyone looking to explore Queensland’s pristine beaches and diverse landscapes. The UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest sand island in the world with unique ecosystems that include rainforests growing on sand dunes and freshwater lakes.
You’ll see plenty of wildlife while Hervey Bay is known as the best place in the world for whale watching as humpback whales migrate between July and November. From the beaches to national parks, there’s plenty to explore on this adventurous road trip, while you’ll also find numerous cultural events and festivals.
Tip from the author: To get to Lady Elliot Island, you’ll need to book in advance as flights are only accessible via small aircraft. The scenic flights run consistently throughout the year from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. Bookings can be made online.
7. Whitsunday islands escape
- Driving time: 1 hour 47 minutes total driving time (not including ferry transfers to Hamilton Island and Daydream Island)
- Driving distance: 146 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Airlie Beach to Hamilton Island
- Airlie Beach to Daydream Island
- Airlie Beach to Bowen: 78.6 kilometres, 59 minutes
- Bowen to Proserpine: 67.5 kilometres, 48 minutes
- Top stops: Airlie Beach Lagoon, Catseye Beach, Hamilton Island Wildlife Park, One Tree Hill, Horseshoe Bay, and Cedar Creek Falls.
- Best for: Beachgoers and water sport enthusiasts wanting coastal views, pristine beaches, and access to the stunning Great Barrier Reef.
A road trip through the incredible Whitsundays region of Queensland offers unbeatable coastal views and access to secluded beaches that draw local and international travellers alike. You’ll relax in the tranquil waters of Airlie Beach before journeying to Hamilton Island where you can explore its beaches or see native Australian wildlife including kangaroos and koalas at Hamilton Island Wildlife Park.
At Daydream Island, you’ll be treated to stunning sunsets over the water and a range of restaurants serving up fresh, local produce. In Bowen, you can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Horseshoe Bay or explore the town’s history through its murals. Proserpine also boasts a rich heritage which you can learn more about at the Proserpine Museum.
Tip from the author: With its own commercial airport, you can fly directly to Hamilton Island Airport from Brisbane on Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas. Private charter flights can also be organised from anywhere in Australia, while ferries run consistently throughout the day from Port of Airlie and Shute Harbour on the mainland. For more information, visit the website.
Similarly, ferries operate daily from Airlie Beach to Daydream Island, with the travel time taking approximately 30 minutes. Currently, there is no car ferry from Daydream Island to Airlie Beach, so you will need to leave your vehicle.
8. Scenic Rim discovery
- Driving time: 3 hours 56 minutes
- Driving distance: 241 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Beaudesert: 69.2 kilometres, 1 hour 6 minutes
- Beaudesert to Lamington National Park: 53.7 kilometres, 56 minutes
- Lamington National Park to Tamborine Mountain: 39.1 kilometres, 44 minutes
- Tamborine Mountain to Canungra: 13.2 kilometres, 17 minutes
- Canungra to Boonah: 65.7 kilometres, 54 minutes
- Top stops: Moongerah Dam, Governor’s Chair Lookout, Mountview Alpaca farm, Canungra Valley vineyards, Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, and Lamington National Park.
- Best for: Foodies and nature lovers who want to combine the natural beauty of the region with top spots for culinary delights and wine tastings.
For those seeking lush rainforests and diverse landscapes, the Scenic Rim road trip is a must. You’ll be treated to a range of outdoor activities, from exploring the Green Mountains section with its stunning walking trails at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat to iconic walking trails along Tamborine Mountain. Be sure to hike up to Governor’s Chair Lookout for panoramic views of the Scenic Rim when you make it to Boonah.
Along with the natural beauty of the region, you’ll also be able to savour the charming hospitality of local towns and enjoy their culinary delights. Taste award-winning liqueurs and spirits at Tamborine Mountain distillery or visit the beautiful vineyards in Canungra where you’ll enjoy wine tastings by the creek. You’ll find plenty of local cafes and restaurants at Boonah, while Beaudesert is known for its local markets with fresh produce and handmade goods.
Top stop: Visit the Tamborine Mountain Distillery for the perfect afternoon getaway. Established in 1993 and recognised as Australia’s most awarded distillery, it boasts over 300 international awards for its boutique liqueurs and spirits. Located on Tamborine Mountain’s Gallery Walk, guests can indulge in a tasting or tour to experience the craftsmanship behind their exceptional, smooth, and uniquely captivating flavours that reflect the essence of the region.
9. Capricorn Coast expedition
- Driving time: 9 hours 24 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 754 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Rockhampton: 645 kilometres, 7 hours 16 minutes
- Rockhampton to Yeppoon: 42 kilometres, 42 minutes
- Yeppoon to Great Keppel Island: 8.4 kilometres, 12 minutes
- Keppel Bay Marina to Emu Park: 13 kilometres, 13 minutes
- Emu Park to Byfield National Park: 75 kilometres, 1 hour 25 minutes
- Top stops: Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo, Yeppoon Main Beach, Keppel Kraken, Anzac Memorial Walk, and Singing Ship.
- Best for: Nature lovers looking for walking trails in outback Queensland. With 4WD tracks in Byfield National Park, this road trip is best suited to those with access to a 4WD vehicle.
Queensland’s Capricorn Coast delivers stunning coastal views as you journey to iconic destinations including Yeppoon with its promenade and clear waters and Great Keppel Island which is known as a go-to destination for those wanting to snorkel, dive, and take in the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Byfield National Park has plenty of walking trails that allow you to explore the outdoors, while Water Park Creek and Stony Creek allow you to cool off or enjoy a picnic by the water. There are several sandy tracks and rugged terrain, so if you want to drive through the park it’s recommended that you have a 4WD.
Tip from the author: To get to Great Keppel Island, you’ll need to catch a ferry. From Yeppoon, drive to Keppel Bay Marina where you’ll then get the Keppel Konnections ferry transfer over to the Great Keppel Island. It’s crucial that you plan ahead and book your ferry in advance as it departs the marina just three times a day, at the times of 7:30am, 9am, and 3pm.
10. Far North Queensland road trip
- Driving time: 8 hours 7 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 535 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cairns to Cooktown: 326 kilometres, 3 hours 49 minutes
- Cooktown to Cape Tribulation: 102 kilometres, 2 hours 5 minutes
- Cape Tribulation to Port Douglas: 84.1 kilometres,1 hour 52 minutes
- Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge: 22.2 kilometres, 22 minutes
- Top stops: Cooktown Museum, Grassy Hill Lookout, Bloomfield Falls, Cape Tribulation Beach, Daintree Rainforest, Four Mile Beach, Macrossan Street, Mossman Gorge Guided Dreamtime Walk, and Cairns Botanic Gardens.
- Best for: Adventurers looking to experience the stunning beauty of Queensland’s top natural attractions.
Located in the northeastern part of Australia, Far North Queensland draws travellers with its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. A road trip here will take you through incredible natural attractions that include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands with its waterfalls, crater lakes, and picturesque landscapes.
There’s no shortage of things to do on this road trip, but for wildlife lovers you’ll be in for a treat. Far North Queensland is known for its abundance of wildlife, with sightings of cassowary, tree kangaroos, and marine animals all to be expected.
11. Southern Queensland country loop
- Driving time: 8 hours 22 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 704 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Toowoomba: 127 kilometres, 1 hour 42 minutes
- Toowoomba to Stanthorpe: 143 kilometres, 1 hour 50 minutes
- Stanthorpe to Warwick: 60.2 kilometres, 44 minutes
- Warwick to Dalby: 163 kilometres, 2 hours
- Dalby to Goondiwindi: 210 kilometres, 2 hours 17 minutes
- Top stops: Myall Creek Parklands, Dalby Pioneer Park Museum, Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands, Warwick Rodeo Heritage Centre, and Girraween National Park.
- Best for: Foodies wanting to savour local wines and fresh produce and those who want to combine natural attractions with cultural excursions in South East Queensland.
Journey through Southern Queensland and be treated to charming local towns, rolling hills, and a variety of cultural attractions. Make no mistake, you’ll still experience the stunning natural beauty that includes the granite landscapes and walking trails in Girraween National Park in Stanthorpe and the scenic views offered at the town’s renowned wineries, but you’ll also want to visit Warwick Art Gallery and the Warwick Rodeo Heritage Centre to learn more about the unique history of the area.
12. Carnarvon Gorge and surrounds
- Driving time: 10 hours 38 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 935 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Roma to Carnarvon Gorge: 246 kilometres, 2 hours 52 minutes
- Carnarvon Gorge to Emerald: 244 kilometres, 2 hours 51 minutes
- Emerald to Sapphire Gemfields: 54 kilometres, 36 minutes
- Sapphire Gemfields to Theodore: 391 kilometres, 4 hours 20 minutes
- Top stops: Roma Saleyards, Cathedral Cave and Baloon Cave at Carnarvon Gorge
- Best for: Adventure enthusiasts looking to soak up natural wonders while learning more about the rich history of the area.
A road trip through Carnarvon Gorge and its surroundings is sure to delight. You’ll experience some of Queensland’s most diverse landscapes, particularly that of Carnarvon Gorge with its impressive sandstone cliffs and flowing streams. From waterfalls and unique rock formations to the hiking trails that take you through the heart of the gorge to breathtaking lookout points, the area is also home to a rich collection of Aboriginal rock art. With over 200 species of birds and kangaroos, wallabies, and platypuses that are frequently spotted, the Gorge is a must-visit for any wildlife enthusiast.
13. Cape York Peninsula expedition
- Driving time: 19 hours 27 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,479 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cairns to Cooktown: 326 kilometres, 3 hours 49 minutes
- Cooktown to Laura: 159 kilometres, 1 hour 42 minutes
- Laura to Weipa: 490 kilometres, 6 hours 11 minutes
- Weipa to Bamaga: 469 kilometres, 6 hours 23 minutes
- Bamaga to Cape York: 34.5 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Bamaga to Thursday Island
- Top stops: Cape Melville National Park, Grassy Hill Lookout, Quinkan Rock Art, Weipa Mine and Town Tour, Western Cape Cultural Centre, Somerset Beach, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, and Green Hill Fort on Thursday Island.
- Best for: Hikers, adventurers, and those looking to take on historic 4WD tracks.
The remote and rugged nature of the Cape York Peninsula makes for a unique road trip experience, one any adventurer and nature lover will adore. Be sure to pack plenty of comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes as there are several national parks that demand your attention. At Cape York, you’ll find Cape Melville National Park with its unique granite boulder formations and wildlife, Jardine River National Park with its pristine rivers and wetlands, and Iron Range National Park which served as a historical WWII site.
While there’s plenty more to discover on this road trip, there are historic driving tracks, including the Old Telegraph Track, that’s one of the most famous 4WD routes in Australia. With stunning scenery and challenging river crossings, if you’re inclined to take this on, be sure to have a 4WD.
Tip from the author: To access Thursday Island, you’ll need to catch a boat from Bamaga. It typically takes 1 hour and 21 minutes to travel to Thursday Island from Bamaga, with the ferry covering a distance of 42 kilometres. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website.
14. Southern Great Barrier Reef Journey
- Driving time: 7 hours 21 minutes
- Driving distance: 633 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Bundaberg: 372 kilometres, 4 hours 20 minutes
- Bundaberg to Lady Musgrave Island
- Bundaberg to Agnes Water via Seventeen Seventy: 137 kilometres, 1 hour 41 minutes
- Agnes Water to Gladstone: 124 kilometres, 1 hour 29 minutes
- Top stops: Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, Lady Musgrave Island, Agnes Water Beach, Seventeen Seventy Lookout, Joseph Banks Conservation Park, and Deepwater National Park.
- Best for: Beachgoers and those looking to explore the abundant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef off Australia’s East Coast.
This epic road trip will see you head north to explore the incredible Great Barrier Reef and its abundant wildlife. However, Lady Musgrave Island can only be accessed by boat, with consistent boat rides running throughout the day. These depart from Bundaberg and have an approximate travel duration of two hours and 15 minutes. Be sure to book in advance and secure your spot, all of which can be done online.
15. Queensland Wet Tropics Circuit
- Driving time: 11 hours 3 minutes
- Driving distance: 811 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Cairns to Port Douglas: 66.6 kilometres, 1 hour 10 minutes
- Port Douglas to Atherton Tablelands: 296 kilometres, 3 hours 58 minutes
- Atherton Tablelands to Kuranda: 245 kilometres, 3 hours 11 minutes
- Kuranda to Innisfail: 115 kilometres, 1 hour 44 minutes
- Innisfail to Cairns: 88 kilometres, 1 hour 10 minutes
- Top stops: Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Botanic Gardens, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, and Mamu Tropical Skywalk.
- Best for: Those seeking stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and unique cultural experiences.
This road trip through Queensland’s wet tropics offers a diverse range of landscapes. From lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls to the vibrant local culture and nightlife of Cairns, you’ll be able to soak up the coastal views before venturing to Atherton Tablelands, where hiking trails will take you to Millaa Millaa Falls and Lake Eacham.
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Unique Queensland road trips for every type of traveller
Want a unique road trip to suit your travel preferences? Whether you’re adventuring as a couple, looking for a solo outdoor expedition, or want to bring your furry companion along for the ride, these road trips are sure to cater to your personal needs.
Couples retreat in the Whitsundays
Nothing says romance quite like the white sandy beaches and tranquil waters of the Whitsundays. Take in the sunrise over the ocean and relax on the shore with your loved one on this road trip.
- Driving time: 1 hour 27 minutes (not including ferry travel times)
- Driving distance: 103 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Airlie Beach to Hamilton Island, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet: 1 hour 30 minutes by ferry
- Airlie Beach to Daydream Island: 30 minutes by ferry
- Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour and Bowen: 103 kilometres, 1 hour 27 minutes
- Top stops: Queens Beach, Rose Bay, Bowen Lookout Points, Horseshoe Bay, Whitehaven Beach, and Hamilton Island Wildlife Park.
Solo adventure along the Sunshine Coast
Travelling alone? This road trip delivers endless attractions and breathtaking sights so you spend more time outdoors on an epic adventure.
- Driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Driving distance: 232 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Noosa Heads: 151 kilometres, 1 hour 50 minutes
- Noosa Heads to Coolum Beach: 16.8 kilometres, 19 minutes
- Coolum Beach to Mooloolaba: 24.6 kilometres, 21 minutes
- Mooloolaba to Maroochydore: 7.1 kilometres, 15 minutes
- Maroochydore to Caloundra: 20.2 kilometres, 27 minutes
- Caloundra to Buderim: 20.4 kilometres, 25 minutes
Top stops: Buderim Forest Park, Caloundra Coastal Walk, Kings Beach, Maroochydore Beach, Sunshine Plaza, Mooloolaba Esplanade, and Mount Coolum National Park.
Family fun on the Gold Coast
If you’re wondering where the best places to stop are when travelling with kids, we’ve got you covered. This Gold Coast road trip takes in all the best theme parks and top attractions that are guaranteed to entertain every family member.
- Driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Driving distance: 130 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Surfers Paradise to Dreamworld: 23.8 kilometres, 26 minutes
- Dreamworld to Seaworld: 24.8 kilometres, 27 minutes
- Seaworld to Warner Bros. Movie World: 19.1 kilometres, 22 minutes
- Warner Bros. Movie World to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: 36.7 kilometres, 33 minutes
- Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to Coolangatta: 6 kilometres, 9 minutes
- Coolangatta to Broadbeach: 20 kilometres, 37 minutes
Top stops: Point Danger Lookout, Burleigh Beach, Burleigh Heads National Park, Treetop Challenge, Broadwater Parklands, WhiteWater World, and SkyPoint Observation Deck.
Pet-Friendly Adventure in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Travelling with your furry companion? These pet-friendly stops make for an unforgettable road trip through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
- Driving time: 3 hours 27 minutes
- Driving distance: 240 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Maleny: 105 kilometres, 1 hour 26 minutes
- Maleny to Montville: 14.6 kilometres, 15 minutes
- Montville to Mapleton: 9.2 kilometres, 11 minutes
- Mapleton to Kenilworth: 21.4 kilometres, 23 minutes
- Kenilworth to Buderim: 62.3 kilometres, 48 minutes
- Buderim to Cooroy: 39.5 kilometres, 31 minutes
Top stops: Noosa Botanic Gardens, Buderim Forest Park, Booloumba Creek Campground, Kenilworth Cheese Factory, and Mapleton Falls National Park.
Surfers Paradise Getaway
Looking for a weekend getaway in the heart of Surfers Paradise? We’ve rounded up the key attractions and top beaches to ensure you soak up the best sights.
- Driving time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Driving distance: 147 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Brisbane to Surfers Paradise: 77.7 kilometres, 1 hour 4 minutes
- Surfers Paradise to Burleigh Heads: 13.6 kilometres, 21 minutes
- Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta: 16.1 kilometres, 20 minutes
- Coolangatta to Main Beach: 34.1 kilometres, 45 minutes
- Main Beach to Broadbeach: 5.9 kilometres, 14 minutes
- Broadbeach to Mermaid Beach: 2.1 kilometres, 6 minutes
- Top stops: Kurrawa Beach, Sea World, Snapper Rocks, Burleigh Heads National Park, and SkyPoint Observation Deck.
Final advice for your Queensland road trip of a lifetime
Ultimately, any road trip undertaken in Queensland, with its tropical climate and lush greenery, will deliver unforgettable sights, adventure, and plenty of wildlife spotting. Whether you opt for the Pacific Coast Way, a Surfers Paradise getaway, or a wet tropics circuit, you’ll experience delicious local flavours, explore the outdoors, and be able to cool off at some of Australia’s most iconic beaches along the way.
Looking for more road trip inspiration? Dive into 17 of the best road trips from Brisbane or go all out and tackle the ultimate East Coast Australia road 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.
