Australia’s East Coast has it all, from golden beaches and beautiful national parks to buzzing cities. If you’re thinking about exploring the coastline from Sydney to Cairns, get ready for an adventure filled with surf spots, tropical rainforests, and laid-back coastal towns.
Whether you’re new to Australia and want to explore your new home or are just looking for an unforgettable journey, a road trip along the East Coast is a great way to experience the country’s beauty. At Remitly, we know that making a new place feel like home includes getting out there and seeing it for yourself. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you plan your trip with useful tips on the best routes, must-visit stops, and things to keep in mind along the way.
What to expect on your East Coast adventure
The classic route from Sydney to Cairns covers about 2,500 kilometres and is packed with incredible places to explore. Think Byron Bay’s surf vibes, the Gold Coast’s beautiful beaches, and the jaw-dropping beauty of Fraser Island. Then there’s Airlie Beach, your gateway to the Whitsundays, and Cairns, where you can snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.
Every stop has its own charm. You’ll go from big cities and lively beach towns to peaceful coastal hideaways. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Noosa or catching a sunrise at Cape Tribulation, this road trip is the perfect way to see Australia beyond the big cities.
Planning your trip
The key to a successful East Coast road trip is good preparation:
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- Timing your trip: Whether you have two weeks or a month, it’s helpful to plan your route and pick a few must-see places. If you’re short on time, focus on key spots like Byron Bay, Noosa, or the Whitsundays to make the most of your journey.
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- Budgeting wisely: From renting a car or campervan to booking accommodation and tours, costs can add up. Decide on a budget to keep things affordable while still being able to enjoy amazing experiences.
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- Choosing the right season: Queensland is warm year-round, but the wet season (December to March) can make some roads tricky and affect snorkelling conditions. Meanwhile, southern New South Wales can get pretty chilly in winter.
Recommended must-see stops
There’s no shortage of amazing places to visit, but a few favourites stand out:
- Byron Bay: A relaxed coastal town famous for its surf, scenic lighthouse walks, and thriving arts scene.
- Gold Coast: Packed with world-class beaches, exciting nightlife, and theme parks for a fun break from driving.
- Fraser Island: The world’s largest sand island, perfect for four-wheel-driving adventures, freshwater lakes, and spotting dingoes in the wild.
- Airlie Beach: The gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and the iconic Whitehaven Beach.
- Magnetic Island: Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, this island is a paradise for spotting koalas and unwinding on beautiful, secluded beaches.
- Cairns: Your final stop (or starting point), where you can snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef and explore the lush Daintree Rainforest.
Essential things to know for an East Coast road trip
There are many different options to enjoy an East Coast Australia road trip. Most travellers choose to start in Sydney and move northwards toward Cairns. Each stop offers something for everyone.
When is the best time to travel?
Picking the right time for your trip can make all the difference, especially since the East Coast has a few different climates:
- Winter (June–August): Expect dry, sunny weather and no summer humidity. Meanwhile, New South Wales will be cooler, so pack some layers.
- Shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October): Ideal for fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and often cheaper prices on accommodation and tours.
- Summer (December–February): Perfect for the beaches in Sydney and along the southern coast. Expect hot, humid, and sometimes rainy weather in North Queensland. It’s also peak tourist season, so consider booking ahead.
Popular stops and travel routes
- Sydney to Port Macquarie (4–5 hours): Start your trip with coastal views and a visit to one of the local koala sanctuaries.
- Port Macquarie to Byron Bay (4–5 hours): Stop by Nimbin for a quirky detour before arriving in Byron Bay, where you can enjoy surf beaches, local markets, and an unforgettable sunrise at the lighthouse.
- Byron Bay to Gold Coast (1–2 hours): Explore the lively beaches of Surfers Paradise or take a detour inland to check out waterfalls in the national parks.
- Gold Coast to Noosa (2–3 hours via Brisbane): Noosa is a dream for surfers, shoppers, and nature lovers, with stunning coastal walks in Noosa National Park.
- Noosa to Hervey Bay/Rainbow Beach (2–3 hours): Use either of these laid-back towns as a launch point for a trip to Fraser Island, home to crystal-clear lakes, wild dingoes, and off-road adventures.
- Hervey Bay/Rainbow Beach to Airlie Beach (9–10 hours, with stops): This is one of the longest stretches, so consider breaking it up. Once in Airlie Beach, book a Whitsundays cruise and experience the stunning Whitehaven Beach.
- Airlie Beach to Townsville (3–4 hours): Make a quick stop in Bowen for tropical fruit and scenic beaches before heading to Townsville, your gateway to Magnetic Island.
- Townsville to Cairns (4 hours): Take a break in Mission Beach or explore the waterfalls of the Atherton Tablelands before reaching Cairns, the adventure capital of the north.
The best photo-worthy spots
- Bondi Beach (Sydney) and Coogee for iconic coastal scenes
- Byron Bay Lighthouse for sunrise shots
- Noosa National Park lookout points
- 75 Mile Beach on Fraser Island
- Hill Inlet near Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays
- Sunset over the water at Mission Beach
- Mossman Gorge or Cape Tribulation for rainforest-meets-reef vistas
- The vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef
Choosing the right vehicle for your Australian East Coast road trip
Whether you want the convenience of a car or the freedom of a campervan, consider your budget, travel style, and how much space you’ll need.
Car vs campervan: Which is better?
A campervan is a great option if you want your transport and accommodation rolled into one. It’s perfect for travellers who love flexibility and don’t mind a more laid-back, budget-friendly experience.
Pros:
- Saves money on accommodation.
- Allows for spontaneous stops and stays at free or low-cost campgrounds.
- Comes with a basic kitchen, which helps cut down on food costs.
Cons:
- Parking can be slightly tricky.
- Uses more fuel than a regular car, which adds to costs.
- Limited space if you’re travelling with a group.
If you prefer staying in hotels, hostels, or holiday parks and want a more traditional driving experience, a car might be the better choice for you. It’s easier to park, gets better fuel efficiency, and can make longer drives more comfortable. However, you’ll need to budget for accommodation and food along the way.
Tips for renting a vehicle
- Book early: Especially during peak seasons, rentals can get booked out quickly.
- Compare prices: Websites like VroomVroomVroom or Kayak can help you find the best deal.
- Check insurance: Make sure you’re covered for your whole route. Some rental agreements exclude places like Fraser Island or certain remote areas in North Queensland.
- Inspect the vehicle: Take photos or a video before driving off to document any pre-existing damage.
Where to stay on your Australian East Coast road trip
From backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, the East Coast has something for every budget and style. Deciding where to stay will depend on your preferences and how flexible you want your schedule to be.
Accommodation options
- Hotels and lodges: If comfort and privacy are your priorities, hotels are a great option. You’ll find plenty of choices in Australia’s major cities, like Sydney, Byron Bay, and Cairns, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end.
- Hostels: If you want to prioritise affordability and socialising, hostels are perfect, especially for backpackers and solo travellers. They also often come with shared kitchens, which help keep meal costs down. Hostels are available in nearly every major town along the route.
- Camping: If you’re travelling by campervan, you’ll find free and low-cost campsites all along the coast. Even if you’re not in a van, many holiday parks offer tent sites, powered sites, and cabin rentals.
Tips for finding the best stays
- Plan around events: Popular festivals, school holidays, and peak travel seasons can mean accommodations fill quickly and prices rise.
- Off-peak deals: If your schedule is flexible, consider travelling during off-season for lower nightly rates.
- Combine stays: Many travellers switch between camping, hostels, and hotels to balance comfort, cost, and variety throughout the trip.
Practical travel advice for your road trip
A long road trip isn’t just about getting behind the wheel and driving—it takes careful planning to enjoy your experience. Think about how you’ll manage travel time, refuelling, meals, and unexpected detours.
How to manage travel time
To make the most of your journey, try to avoid spending too much time on the road each day.
- Keep driving distances reasonable: Try to drive for a maximum of 4–5 hours per day. This gives you enough time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.
- Use a road trip planner: There are lots of apps like Roadtrippers or Google Maps to help you map out stops, petrol stations, campsites, and attractions along the way.
- Plan for breaks: Small towns like Port Macquarie and Nimbin make great pit stops. Take time to stretch, grab a coffee, and chat with locals—you might get some great recommendations.
Where to eat during your road trip
- Local cafes: Each region has its own foodie culture. You’ll find farm-fresh produce in the rural areas of New South Wales, fresh seafood near Airlie Beach, and tropical fruits in North Queensland.
- Cook your own meals: If you rent a camper van, cooking at campgrounds can save a lot of money. Stock up on groceries at larger supermarkets in bigger towns like Byron or Noosa.
- Experience local markets: Byron’s markets, for example, are popular for artisan foods and fresh produce. Many markets only run weekly or monthly, so check their schedules ahead of time.
Budgeting for your East Coast road trip
Renting a vehicle will probably be one of your biggest expenses, with daily rates varying widely depending on the type of vehicle and the season. Fuel costs can also add up over long distances. So, consider using apps like FuelMap, which can help you find the best prices for fuel for your journey.
To save money on food, consider cooking your own meals, especially if you’re in a campervan. Dining out in places like Byron Bay or the Gold Coast can be pricey, so it’s good to budget a little extra.
Tours and activities can be another big expense, particularly for bucket-list experiences like snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, visiting Fraser Island, or exploring the Daintree Rainforest. If you plan to do multiple tours, look for package deals to save money. By spending time planning, you can make this trip both budget-friendly and unforgettable.
FAQs
How long does it take to road trip East Coast Australia?
Most people take two to four weeks to drive from Sydney to Cairns, depending on how many stops they make. If you’re in a rush, you can do it in two weeks by sticking to major highlights like Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, and Cairns. If you have extra time, you can set your own pace or even extend your trip to other regions like the Great Ocean Road or Western Australia.
What is the best road trip planner in Australia?
There are plenty of great apps to help you plan. Roadtrippers lets you map your route and discover attractions, campsites, and scenic stops along the way. Google My Maps is great for customising your journey with pinned locations, and it syncs easily with Google Maps. WikiCamps is a favourite among Aussie travellers for finding campsites, caravan parks, and local tips. For the best recommendations and insider advice, chat with other travellers in hostels or online forums.
What are the main tips for a successful road trip?
It’s a good idea to plan your daily driving distances realistically. Four to five hours a day is a good balance between driving and exploring. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, especially for long drives between towns. Download offline maps, as phone service can be patchy in remote areas. It’s also good to be flexible. Sometimes, the best moments come from unexpected detours and local recommendations.