Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip: Explore Queensland’s Coast in 10 Days

Moeilijkheid

1228 mi/ 1,977 km km

Afstand

15

Aanbevolen Dagen

Adventure

Reis Type

Renata Almeida
Renata Almeida

Having lived in 3 continets already, Renata is passionate about travelling and loves creating unique iteneraries.

Brisbane to Cairns Road trip

Pick-up in
Brisbane Pick-up Center
1

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Bezoek

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Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

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Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Tour the world’s oldest koala sanctuary, spanning 18 hectares and housing over 80 species of Australian animals.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Opened in 1855, these gorgeous gardens are an official Australian Heritage Site.

Eat Street Northshore

Nosh on tasty Australian street food as you wander through this transformed container wharf.

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Moo Moo The Wine Bar & Grill

$$

This Italian steakhouse serves Wagyu steak, fresh seafood, and wine sourced from around the world.

GOMA Farm-to-Table

$$

This eco-friendly restaurant by the Brisbane Gallery of Modern Art’s eatery features menus made from locally sourced ingredients.

Blackfire Restaurant

$$

This casual bistro serves Spanish cuisine and tapas in a laidback setting.

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Brisbane Holiday Village

$$

Just a 15-minute drive from Brisbane city center, this holiday park is an ideal place to stay in a campervan, it features landscaped gardens, a swimming lagoon, sports activities, and restaurants. Rates start at AUD $41/night.

Wild Horse Retreat

$$

Get in touch with nature at this horse ranch at the foot of the Glasshouse Mountains. Features include potable water, toilets, and water hookup. No powered sites. From AUD $36/night.

Lamington National Park

$

Camp in your RV near the Gondwana Rainforests, an Australian World Heritage Site. Includes some powered caravan sites. Costs AUD $29 per family per night, or AUD $7.25/person.

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QueensPlaza Car Park

A convenient parking location in Brisbane’s Central Business District.

200 Mary Street Car Park

A Central Business District parking garage featuring early bird hours, multi-day packages, and hourly rates.

2

Stop Two: Noosa

Noosa is the perfect place to relax after a 2-hour drive. Unwind on the beach, stretch your legs in the sand, and experience amazing art, culture, and food in the charming center.

The town is well-loved by locals and tourists alike for its vibrant beaches, idyllic tropical paths, and easy access to the ocean and famous Noosa River. 

Over the course of your time here, you can spend one day on the beach, spend another kayaking the river, and use your free time to explore the many restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops that line the streets. 

Bezoek

Noosa

1

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

142 km

from Brisbane

1h42min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Noosa National Park

Capture memorable photos of Southeast Queensland’s most scenic landscapes and one of two everglades at Noosa National Park!

Noosa Heads Main Beach

Have some fun in the sun at one of the most beloved beaches in Australia.

Noosa Farmers Market

Pick out seasonally-harvested fruits and vegetables at the Noosa Farmers Market.

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La Vida Restaurant

$$

Tapas, pasta and seafood platters for the taking, all of which are served on an outdoor veranda.

Season Restaurant & Bar

$$

This quaint bistro serves up locally caught fish with a view you won’t soon forget.

Sails Restaurant

$$$

Traditional Australian fare served in a sophisticated wine bar.

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Noosa North Shore Campground

This campground offers visitors a soothing environment mixed with breathtaking views to make your trip an unforgettable experience. There are hookup sites and external power supplies available as well.

Big 4 Ingenia Campground

Big 4 has everything a roadtrippers could want. With plenty of places to go birdwatching or play a few rounds of golf, Big 4 offers a peaceful stay close to all Noosa has to offer.

Noosa River Holiday Park

Whether you’re pitching a tent or living that campervan life, Noosa River has a welcome spot for everyone.

3

Stop Three: Agnes Water

Agnes Water is a picturesque coastal town along the Central Queensland coastline with natural beauty and a relaxed ambiance. Its pristine beaches, thriving eucalypt forests, and thriving mangroves offer a captivating blend of coastal and inland wonders. Serving as a gateway to the renowned Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Agnes Water provides a perfect starting point for unforgettable adventures.

Explore the lush lowland rainforests on invigorating hikes, spot charming wildlife like wallabies and kangaroos, and experience the warm hospitality of the friendly locals. Discover serenity and natural splendor in this coastal haven that will leave a lasting impression.

Bezoek

Agnes Water

1

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

377 km

from Noosa

4hr20min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Great Barrier Reef

Agnes Water serves as a fantastic starting point to embark on an adventure to the world-renowned icon, the Great Barrier Reef. Take the opportunity to join a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the breathtaking wonders of this magnificent reef system.

Agnes Water Beach

This beach has awesome golden sands and is a paradise for surfers. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of turtles nesting between April and October!

Chinaman’s Beach

Escape the usual routes and embark on a day of discovery amidst the awe-inspiring vistas and tranquil seclusion of Chinaman's Beach.

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Poke Pokay

Fuel up for a day of sun and surf by heading to Poke Pokay, where you can relish in a delectable spread of sushi and sushi bowls, the ideal meal to energize you before hitting the beach.

Round Hill Pizza

$$

This pizza place has a perfect summer vibe, perfect for a casual dinner.

Holidays Cafe

$$

Sits right off Agnes Water Main beach, this is a gorgeous cafe with incredible views where you can find salads, smoothies and even Acai bowls.

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Workman's Beach Camping Area

Situated within Deepwater National Park, Workman's Beach offers a peaceful camping experience surrounded by nature. The campground provides facilities like toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.

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4

Stop Four: Cape Hillsborough National Park

Along the Central Queensland coast lies Cape Hillsborough, home to eucalypt forests, mangroves, beaches, and more. It’s connected to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and easily the most striking and awe-inspiring location in the entire Australian Mackay Region.

You’ll want to hike through the incredible lowland rainforests and keep your eyes open for wallabies and kangaroos. There are also carpet pythons in the forests, and you’ll likely see them slithering over rocks or winding their way up trees.

Bezoek

Cape Hillsborough

1

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

605 km

Agnes Water

6h28min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Cape Hillsborough Beach

This beach is home to plenty of photogenic kangaroos and wallabies that give the ocean views a run for their money.

Andrews Point Track

This 2-mile walk takes about an hour to complete and offers amazing views of the ocean and forest.

Beachcomber Cove Track

A track that will take you from the eucalypt forest and rainforest and reaching a lookout point at Beachcomber Cove.

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Pitt Stop Classic Cafe

$

This quaint little restaurant serves up coffee, fish and chips, and even groceries and copies of the Australian Post. A great place to refuel on your trip and grab some stapes for your RV fridge.

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Jarravale Farm Stay

$$

This family-friendly farm campground features animals, sugar cane fields, and amazing mountain views. Powered and unpowered sites available, as well as toilets and potable water. Rates range from AUD $24-$36/night.

5

Stop Five: Airlie Beach

Arlie Beach is a town in the Whitsundays featuring tropical beaches, turquoise waters, and endless breathtaking views.

The mainland has just as much to offer as the surrounding coastline, and it will be your favorite spot on this trip if you’re a surfer or fan of water sports.

Bezoek

Airlie Beach

2

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

126 km

from Cape Hillsborough

1h29min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Whitsunday Islands

$$

Catch a boat to the epic Withsunday Islands at Coral Sea Marina.

Airlie Beach Lagoon

This lagoon features its own pool and even small swim areas for kids.

Conway National Park

Hike through mangroves and forests, and immerse yourself in a vibrant Australian rainforest.

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Cafe One

$

Enjoy a fresh latte and healthy dishes like avocado toast topped with egg whites and arugula.

Anchor Bar

$$$

Delicious burgers, seafood, and cocktails are enhanced by fantastic waterside dining.

Cool LaLa Modern Chinese

$$

From dumplings and Pad Thai to bubble tea, this restaurant combines some of Asia’s most tantalizing flavors onto its menu. There are tasty vegan options also available.

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Overnachten

Big4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

$$$

The Big4 caravan parks throughout Australia are among the best you can find. This location features a massive lagoon-inspired swimming pool, waterpark, animal park, and mini golf course. Rent a cabin for a few nights, or connect your RV to one of the powered sites for AUD $69-$109.

NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park

$$

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the rainforests of Bali as you embrace nature in this beautiful, tropical park. Features a resort-style pool, gourmet barbeque area, camp kitchen, and pet-friendly accommodations. Caravan costs are AUD $35/night for an unpowered site while a powered slab costs $65/night.

Discovery Park Airlie Beach

$$

This family-friendly park is the ultimate getaway for those hoping to catch sights of Australian wildlife. Get your camera ready, because there are plenty of wallabies, kangaroos, and even turkeys wandering about. Unpowered, powered, and ensuite caravan sites are available starting at AUD $83/night.

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Airlie Beach Woolworths Car Park

$

Over 200 spots available. Maximum of $10 per day, $3/hour.

Port of Airlie Car Park

$$

Covered and uncovered spots available for $16 for 12-24 hours, $7-8 an hour. The first two hours are always free.

6

Stop Six: Mission Beach

You’ve made it to Mission Beach, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics rainforest.

When you’re not experiencing some of the most amazing sights Australia has to offer, you can unwind on one of the many dazzling beaches stretched across nine miles of sunny coastline. 

Bezoek

Mission Beach

2

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

507 km

from Airlie Beach

5h48min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

The Great Barrier Reef

Whether you snorkel, scuba, or go on a boat tour, you have to experience the underwater wonder that lies in the Pacific. Catch a boat tour from one of the local operators for a day trip to the reef — check out Barrier Reef Australia for inspiration.

Skydive Mission Beach

Soar 8,000 feet as you take to the skies at the Skydive Mission Beach Center!

Kennedy Walking Track

Hike along the 8 kilometer Kennedy Walking Track and immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

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Tuskers Tuckerbox & Catering

$

Dine on fresh seafood, juicy burgers with fries, and some local Australian beer.

Bingil Bay Cafe

$$

Swing by this cozy beachside cafe for live music on Fridays, trivia on Thursdays, and great burgers, wraps and gourmet pizza anytime.

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Mission Beach Camping & Caravan Park

Experience the ultimate laid-back atmosphere at this beachfront park. Unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, with unpowered sites available starting from just AUD $27 per night, and powered sites starting at AUD $29 per night.

Dunk Island Caravan Park

Bask in the sun as you enjoy a tropical, white sandy beach. There are over 70 powered sites available.

Tasman Holiday Parks

Situated directly on the beachfront of South Mission Beach, Tasman Holiday Parks provides a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. Powered sites are available with water and sewage hookups as well.

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Narragon Beach

Enjoy the free parking and sounds of the ocean as you park right near the beachfront of Narragon Beach.

Cutten Brothers Walking Track

Nestled within Clump Point, the Cutten Brothers Walking Track allows visitors to safely park and give them easy access to a scenic hiking trail.

Rotary Park

Rotary Park gives tourists a clear, straightforward path to the coveted Wongaling Beach.

7

Stop Seven: Atherton Tablelands

The wild tropical landscape in the Tablelands is lovingly called the “Village in the Rainforest.” With a magnificent Waterfalls Circuit, hiking trails, and incredible views, it is one of the most beautiful spots in Queensland and only a short distance from Cairns. 

This part of Far North Queensland (FNQ) is the perfect destination to experience more of Australia’s phenomenal wildlife and rainforests before you reach your destination. 

Bezoek

Atherton Tablelands

1

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

251 km

from Mission Beach

3h14min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Millaa Millaa Waterfall

Explore the most famous waterfall in Australia. You can’t jump from the top, but you can take a refreshing dip in the tropical lagoon.

Crystal Caves

$

You can venture into one of the continent’s oldest private crystal collections and study prehistoric fossils and crystals for AUD $25/ticket.

Windin Falls

Enjoy unbelievable waterfall views at this destination in Wooroonooran National Park. This is a moderate challenge, so avoid the climb and appreciate the ground views if you’re not a hiker.

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Mad Hatterz

$$$

A play on words along with tons of atmosphere is what hungry roadtrippers looking for a quick bite will find here.

Cassowary Churros Cafe

$$

Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade churros and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options if you’re looking for a healthy meal.

Cafe Azur

$$

Small bites, delicious coffee and plenty of ambiance at this cozy bistro located in Kuranda.

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TROPIKARMA Camping & Music

It’s not everyday you stumble upon a musical sanctuary in the heart of the rainforest. Enjoy a full camp kitchen, live entertainment, and close access to the forest and beach. No electric or water hookups, however. Prices start at AUD $24/night.

Kairos Nature Camp

Fall asleep to the soothing sound of the river as you relax at this nature camp. It has no electric or water hookups, so you’ll need to come prepared for an authentic wilderness experience. It costs AUD $34/night.

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8

Stop Eight: Cairns

Welcome to Cairns! This tropical city is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and you’ll want to stop by for another trip and view of the magnificent ecosystem if you didn’t see it already. 

In addition to exploring the main sights of Cairns, another must-see location is Daintree National Park, the world’s oldest rainforest. You’ll find it about 2 hours northeast from the city’s center. 

Cairns is the only location in Australia where two World Heritage Sites are located side-by-side. Enjoy your time here, whether it’s camping near the rainforest, relaxing on the beach, scuba diving, or photographing the reef.

Bezoek

Cairns

3

Aanbevolen Dagen

Main route

242 km

from Atherton Tablelands

3h24min

drive

Camper verhuur in meer dan 40 verschillende steden en bestemmingen verspreid over Europa.

Bezoek

Crystal Cascades

Swim in a tropical rainforest just 20 minutes from Cairn’s Central Business District by car.

Palm Cove

Embrace serenity and unwind as you stroll along the coast in this peaceful Cairns suburb.

Cairns Aquarium

Enjoy a glimpse of the Great Barrier Reef on land as you explore this beautifully designed aquarium. Fun for all ages.

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Lake Placid Tourist Park

Surrounded by 14 acres of tropical rainforest, this park exclusively provides powered sites, allowing you to enjoy modern amenities amidst the lush surroundings.

Cairns Holiday Park

Just three kilometers from Cairns’ city center, and with a range of caravan and camping sites available, along with a refreshing in-ground pool, you can relax and unwind in this idyllic setting.

First City Caravilla

Situated in a central location, this park offers unpowered sites starting at AUD $42 a night.

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Drop-off in
Brisbane Pick up Center

1698 km/ 1055 miles

from Cairns

19h30min

drive