East Coast Australia Road Trip: Basics, Itinerary, Tips

East Coast Australia Road Trip Overview 

This itinerary follows Australia's East Coast on a road trip. Sydney, the famous capital of New South Wales, is located at one end, while Cairns, located in tropical Northern Queensland, is at the other.

Driving Time: 36 hours

Driving Distance: 2,800km

Route Options: Scenic express route (10 days), Coastal explorer route (21 days)

Recommended Road Trip Length: Although travelling from Cairns to Sydney in 36 hours is possible, it is advisable to extend the driving distance over many weeks. Given Australia's size and the abundance of unique places to see along the East Coast, we advise staying at least ten days to complete this itinerary.

Best Time to Drive: Summer (December to February) is the busiest travel season along Australia's East Coast, but it's also the warmest and rainiest time of year in tropical Northern Queensland. We advise going during the off-peak months of spring (September to November) or fall (March to May) when the weather is still pleasant along the shore; there are tourists and cheaper costs.

Plan exactly where you will stop, what you want to see, and how much time you want to spend at each location. If you are pressed for time, travelling around Australia's east coast might be a nightmare! You should aim for at least 48–72 hours at each site.

East Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary (10 Days) 

This ten-day road trip itinerary will take you less than two weeks to complete, and it will allow you to explore many of Australia's East Coast must-see sights.

Driving Time: 36 hours across ten days

Driving Distance: 2,800km

Best for: Those who want an East Coast schedule that covers every critical must-see location in the quickest manner feasible. It is ideal for visitors wishing to see a blend of energetic urban life, breathtaking seaside scenery, and well-known monuments on Australia's East Coast.

These two East Coast Australia road trip itineraries will take you from Australia's most famous port city to the lush rainforest of Tropical North Queensland, whether you want to go for ten days or many weeks.

Day 1: Sydney to Port Macquarie 

Length: 400km

Time: 4 hours

Highlights: Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Koala Hospital

After taking pictures in front of the Sydney Opera House, proceed to Bondi Beach's Icebergs Pool for a cool dip and sauna before departing the city. Take in the breathtaking coastline vistas as you travel to Port Macquarie to begin your East Coast road trip, and then go straight for the Koala Hospital. It's the first rehabilitation centre in the world devoted to preserving and safeguarding wild koalas.   

Day 2: Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour 

Length: 330km

Time: 3 hours

Highlights: Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Big Banana

This route from Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour has some great stops. Some of the best are the Big Banana Fun Park, the Koala Conservation Hospital Port Macquarie, and the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Trial Bay Gaol, and Dorrigo National Park are other famous places to visit.     

Its beaches, Big Banana monument, and theme park are well-known. The Solitary Islands Marine Park, which lies in the seas outside Coffs Harbour Marina, comprises rich species, seasonal whales, and coral reefs. Just east lies Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, with its sizable population of wedge-tailed shearwater birds and learning centre.

Day 3: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay 

Length: 240km

Time: 2.5 hours

Highlights: Wategoes Beach

You'll reach the laid-back town of Byron Bay after a little drive. Wander through its chic shops and explore its delectable dining scene. Enjoy days of swimming in the waves, lounging on the sand, strolling to the Byron Bay Lighthouse, and spotting dolphins at Main Beach or Wategoes Beach.

Day 4: Byron Bay to Gold Coast  

Length: 100km

Time: 1.5 hours

Highlights: Mount Tamborine, Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Beach, Dreamtime Beach 

At your next destination, the Gold Coast, cross into Queensland from New South Wales. More gorgeous beaches, a thriving nightlife, and amusement parks like Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World can be found there. You can discover many places, such as Mount Tamborine, Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Beach, Dreamtime Beach, and more. 

Before going north, take a short trip to the beautiful Mount Tamborine. You can go on a lovely walk through the jungle, see the famous Glow Worm Caves, or take it easy on a Sunday and stroll through the Mt Tamborine Markets. The air here is complete with the smell of fresh food and the sound of local artists showing off their work. 

Day 5: Gold Coast to Brisbane 

Length: 80km

Time: 1 hour

Highlights: Lamington National Park, MT Tamborine Glow Worm Caves, Coochiemudlo Island

Driving from Brisbane to the Gold Coast on the Pacific Motorway (M1) takes almost one hour and is about 80 kilometres long. The Pacific Motorway is the fastest and most direct way to get there.

If you'd rather take it easy and enjoy the view, you could take the Scenic Rim path. This 170-kilometer trip takes about two and a half hours and passes through lovely towns and beautiful scenery. 

Day 6: Brisbane to Noosa 

Length: 140km

Time: 2 hours

Highlights: Hastings Street, Noosa Main Beach

The drive from Brisbane to Noosa is one of a kind. There are many things to enjoy on the drive, such as seeing beautiful sunsets over the water and stopping at unique Australian sites along the way.

The 140 km drive from Brisbane to Noosa is a fantastic seaside trip that you should take. On the M1, you can get from point A to point B in just two hours, but there are many places to stop and see. This guide will help you plan the perfect road trip from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, with stops at family-friendly zoos, famous sites, and beautiful beaches.

Day 7: Noosa to Hervey Bay

Length: 290km

Time: 3 hours

Highlights: Boreen Point, Tin Can Bay, Maryborough

Going to Boreen Point and having lunch at the Apollonian Hotel is excellent. The food isn't great, but the pub is in a beautiful spot, has live music, and has a spit roast every Sunday. It looks like an ancient country bar and has been kept in good shape.

After that, you could quickly look around Tin Can Bay, but there isn't much to see there. Since the drive is mostly brush, ensure you have a good podcast, movie, or music ready. You could also get up early and be in Tin Can Bay at 7 am to watch the dolphins eat.

Take the highway if you're not interested in either of those things. There are a few small museums in Maryborough and, of course, the Mary Poppins Column.

Day 8: Hervey Bay to Airlie Beach

Length: 550km

Time: 6 hours

Highlights: Whitsunday Islands

When you get to the breathtaking view of Airlie Beach, the lengthier portion of your journey will seem worthwhile. Set off early in the morning to complete it. Plan one of the numerous sailing excursions to the Whitsunday Islands to explore and take in the world-class beaches.

Day 9: Airlie Beach to Townsville

Length: 280km

Time: 3 hours

Highlights: Museum of Tropical Queensland, Magnetic Island

See the Strand waterfront and the Museum of Tropical Queensland, two of Townsville's cultural highlights. Alternatively, hop on a quick ferry to Magnetic Island, an unspoilt paradise on the East Coast, home to koalas, hiking trails, and snorkelling opportunities.

Day 10: Townsville to Cairns

Length: 350km

Time: 4 hours

Highlights: Great Barrier Reef, Prawn Star, Cape Tribulation, Fitzroy Island

Come to Cairns to discover the world-famous Great Barrier Reef as the culmination of your incredible East Coast road adventure. Don't miss Prawn Star, a floating restaurant that offers fresh, locally caught fish right off the trawler for some fantastic cuisine. Don't forget to visit Cape Tribulation and Fitzroy Island, both nearby.

How to Plan Your East Coast Road Trip

To plan a Brisbane to Cairns road trip, mainly following the Bruce Highway, you should take your time to visit important locations, including the Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach (for Whitsunday Islands access),  Hervey Bay, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville, Mission Beach, and lastly reach Cairns.

Consider lodging, activities, weather, and trip length to develop a well-paced schedule, enabling a multi-day journey to enjoy the many landscapes and sites. 

Step 1: Camper Van or Car

Travelling with a campervan or your car is the most economical and convenient option. Renting a campervan in Australia can be your best option if you don't own a car.

Camper Van

You could spend less on food because the van has a stove and kitchen area, ideal for quick breakfasts and special occasions. It is an excellent way for friends to split the petrol cost while travelling together. 

You can stay longer anyplace you wish if you don't need to look for homes. For a list of free campsites, rest areas along the route, and locations to park and spend the night, check out the state parks' websites and applications. You could sleep considerably closer to the outdoors and wake up there.

However, the cost of a camper van might increase in the busiest months. The automobile is heavier, therefore you'll need to purchase additional petrol. Making the bed every night might get tedious since beach sand gets everywhere. The air conditioner becomes hot since you can't leave it on all night without running out of battery juice!

Car

It has less costly first automobile rental, lower petrol costs, and overall more convenient parking. You may stow your luggage in the boot, which is a transportable wardrobe. Because the automobile is substantially smaller, there is less danger of misplacing stuff. You won't have to miss bathing and may sleep in a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere every night. You may save money if the hotels, lodges, etc., include breakfast in the price.

During the year's busiest seasons, finding a place to stay every night may be expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. Hiring a camper van offers a more incredible feeling of "adventure" than renting a standard car.

Step 2: Plan Your Route

Most people say that a 10 to 14 days tour is the best way to see all the sights. Change your plans based on how fast or slow you like to travel. For example, if you want to see more of each place, you could take more time or drive faster.

Depending on your income and preferences, you can choose from coastal resorts, hotels, caravan parks, and guesthouses. You might want to book your lodging before the busy season starts, especially for the holidays.

Step 3: Prepare the Money & Budget

Australia uses the dollar (AUD) as its currency. Due to their $200 maximum, contactless payments are highly favoured, and card payments are generally accepted throughout the country. I recommend having cash on hand for any tiny communities you visit or somewhat more isolated regions. When it comes to budgeting, costs are roughly as follows:

Accommodation:

Tent camping: $10–20 per night

Camper van parking: $20–50 per night, depending on the size and amenities of the campground or vacation resort

A double room at an inexpensive hotel or vacation spot: $100-140

Two rooms at a four- or five-star hotel: $200 to $300, based on the season

Food (based on two people):

On-the-go coffees to go: $9

Eating out or fast food: around $20

$60 for a local café or bar dinner

Three-course dinner at a reputable restaurant: $140-200 

Step 4: Decide & Check Your Vehicle

You want dependable wheels for a road trip on the East Coast. By combining your lodging with transportation, you can save lots of money! You will have somewhere to eat, sleep, and relax for the whole journey, assured, beyond just transporting you from A to B!

The best thing you can do before a road trip is to have your car thoroughly checked. It is recommended that you have a professional or at least someone very informed check your vehicle. 

Step 5: Pack Road Trip Essentials

Having the necessities for a road trip and additional travel gear can help you plan and secure your journey. Although driving in Australia is straightforward due to its vast size and unique landscape, there are a few crucial things to remember.

If you take good care of your car, something might unexpectedly break down or stop working. If this happens, grab your car's guidebook to figure out what's going on: it could be a broken light or windscreen wiper.

If you plan camping on your journey, here's our ultimate list! It has nearly everything you'll want for a fantastic trip. Feel free to check out our list of things to pack for road trips!

Emergency Roadside Toolkit: Although driving alone is typically safe in Australia, you should still have an emergency plan in case of a breakdown. You'll need to be independent if you find yourself in a remote location, and you'll need a rather thorough road trip gear to take care of any problems that may arise.

Multiport USB Car Charger: Given the modern car electronics, you might as well recharge your cell phone while driving. Having a USB vehicle charger on a long journey is an inexpensive yet convenient purchase.

Jumper Cables: A few necessities can also be purchased individually. When travelling by automobile, booster cables are needed if the battery dies. Signalling another automobile for assistance while driving in Australia is not too difficult. Your engine must run to recharge your battery using jumper wires.

Window & Foldable Reflective Sun Shade: Windscreen coverings can easily protect you from the sun's rays on lengthy drives in the heat when travelling across Australia, especially if you have someone riding in the rear seat.

Generator: A generator is a great companion for car trips since it provides the necessary power. A solar generator is fantastic because it's eco-friendly and can be used over and over again! The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus and 600 Plus are fantastic East Coast road trip companions.

They are super convenient, taking up just a small amount of space and being a breeze to move around! When you visit national parks and outdoor areas, these generators are an excellent choice for the environment since they harness solar power to help lower your carbon footprint.  

Jackery Solar Generators for Road Trips

There's nothing more exciting than going on a long road trip, but experienced travellers know that plans can fall apart instantly if they don't have a stable power source. Portable solar generators are a good solution to this problem because they let you quickly charge your electronics and power small items while on the go.  

You can easily mount the Jackery Solar Generator on your car or set it up in a nearby open spot. There are also more eco-friendly camping options, making it easier than ever to make recycling a priority on your trip.

Intelligent app control on both generators makes power management easy. They let you monitor and control your energy source without any problems. Because these devices have more than one output port, you can easily connect and power multiple devices simultaneously.    

Jackery ensures that all the energy used during your East Coast road trip is clean and renewable, from cooking on a portable stove to lighting your campsite beneath the stars. Allow Jackery to reinvent the way you see Australia's famous coastline.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is the best option among portable power stations, offering exceptional output. It assists in your road trip across different situations. This solar generator is super versatile and has plenty of capacity, making it the perfect all-in-one solution to power your adventures! Plus, you can easily manage your power station using the Jackery APP.

Compact Powerhouse

With its impressive 1264Wh capacity and strong 2000W output, this solar generator is a fantastic option for powering most road trip devices. If you ever need it, you can boost the power capacity of the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus to a fantastic 5kWh by adding extra battery packs! With this power capacity, you can energise your entire trip and enjoy the freedom of not being limited by electricity constraints.

Fast Solar Charging

This awesome IBC Technology allows the generator to charge solar in just 4.5 hours with the proper solar panel setup! You can also charge it in just 1.7 hours using a wall outlet, making it even more convenient! Due to the fast charging feature, you can quickly recharge the Explorer 1000 Plus while enjoying a meal at a restaurant or taking a break at a gas station, even if there's not enough sunlight.

Reliability & Durability

The heart of the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus features LiFePO4 battery cells, celebrated for their impressive longevity. This battery lasts up to 10 years or over 4,000 charge cycles, making it an excellent long-term investment!

Jackery Solar Generator 600 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 600 Plus delivers an impressive output of 800W and boasts a robust capacity of 632Wh. Power your essential electronic devices on your road trip, from mobile phones and communication tools to navigation devices, electric stoves, portable fridges, and camping lights. Ensure you have everything you need for a seamless adventure. This setup pairs the Jackery Explorer 600 Plus power station with SolarSaga 100W solar panels, maximising the potential of solar energy.

Lightweight and Portable

This power station is impressively lightweight at only 7.3 kg (16.1 lbs), making it an exceptional portable solution for its power capacity. The compact design features a foldable handle, ensuring effortless portability and convenient storage.

Multiple Charging Methods

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus provides various charging options to meet your needs. This portable power station can be completely recharged in only 1.6 hours when plugged into a wall outlet. Harness the power of the sun with SolarSaga 100W solar panels. Achieve a complete charge in just 4.3 hours using two panels, or take your time with one panel in 8.5 hours. It also offers car charging capabilities, requiring approximately 7.5 hours to complete.

Safety & Compatibility

This solar generator features the Charge Shield 2.0 algorithm, designed to enhance charging efficiency and minimise the time required to recharge the power station. The Solar Generator 600 Plus features a variety of output options, such as AC outlets, USB-A, and USB-C, designed to work seamlessly with various devices.   

Other Activities To Enjoy During The Road Trip

Australia's east coast includes the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands, bustling towns, lush rainforests, and miles of immaculate beaches. Travelling through this beautiful region and seeing the key landmarks is simple, whether by coach, rail, campervan rental, or aeroplane.  

A. Discover Wildlife at Kangaroo Island

This wildlife-rich island is known as a "zoo without fences" and is a stunning rural setting that provides an incredible opportunity to witness Australian species in their native environments. Kangaroos are the obvious attraction on the island, but you may also spot fur seals and sea lions along the coast, koalas cuddling up against trees, and wombats scampering over the ground. 

Nighttime brings movement to the penguins, bats skimming the sky, and even a possum peeking out from behind the bushes. This place offers an abundance of amazing outdoor activities, such as quad riding, surfing, wildlife excursions, and visiting Flinders Chase National Park.

B. Quaff Wine at Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley is ideal for wine enthusiasts to taste and sip to their heart's content. Located an hour's journey inland from Newcastle and up the coast from Sydney, it's the ideal place to stop off if you're travelling by car. Many vineyards in the area provide complimentary tastings, and the region is well-known for its Shiraz and Semillon. 

Vineyards range in size from tiny family farms to huge industrial ones. The Hunter is home to a chocolate industry and an olive facility. Therefore, wine country is the place to go if you enjoy wine and snacks. Please spend a few days renting and riding a bike between the vineyards.  

C. Surf at Byron Bay

Australia is the place to surf, and Byron Bay, with its laid-back, chill feel, is the perfect spot. Byron is all about the sun, sea, and surf. With so many beaches to pick from and a laid-back vibe, it's impossible not to unwind. 

There are several locations across the area where you may reserve a lesson or rent a surfboard. The Pass is typically suitable for all surfers, Watego's is fantastic for longboarders, and Clarkes Beach is great for novices. Byron may become crowded, so if you'd like to escape the crowd, Beautiful Tallow Beach is located 7km south of Cape Byron.

D. Street Art and Markets in Melbourne

Melbourne is a great city with many things to see and do. Take a walking tour to discover the city's well-known street art, kayaking on the Yarra River, ride the tram to St. Kilda Beach, or kick back at one of Melbourne's numerous coffee shops or rooftop bars. Visit the Queen Vic market, which features a deli, seafood market, local vegetables, and a fast food section. 

The market comes alive with food vendors, pubs, and live music on Wednesday nights from November through February. If you're looking for something different, consider visiting Philip Island, home to a seal colony and some excellent surfing beaches, in addition to seeing the renowned penguins.

East Coast Australia Road Trip FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the East Coast Australia road trip.

1. Is going to Australia for 2 weeks worth it?

If you are among the fortunate ones with two weeks or longer, you are in for a genuine treat. You'll have enough time to explore two, three, or four cities to the fullest and still have time to visit some of Australia's natural treasures, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Great Ocean Road.

2. What are the best months to go to Australia?

The ideal times to visit Australia are from March to May and September to November. The majority of travellers choose to visit during these months. These seasons offer ideal walking conditions since they are neither too hot nor too cold.

3. Is the East Coast of Australia expensive?

Organising Your Australia East Coast Vacation: There are three things to think about while planning: Australia can be expensive, and the East Coast is the most expensive area to visit since it's the only place where you'll spend a lot of money on activities every day and attend parties every night.

Is the East Coast Road Trip Worth It?

One of Australia's most incredible road excursions is a drive down the East Coast, which features a variety of landscapes and must-see sights. Discover the marvels of the Great Barrier Reef, unwind on immaculate beaches with fine white sand, and take in the lively vibe of the Gold Coast. If you're considering a vacation to Australia's stunning East Coast, this information will be helpful. As you can see, there are a lot of unique destinations on this fantastic schedule.