Pacific Coast Way Road Trip, QLD
10-14 Day Journey
Everyone knows that Queensland is the state of sunshine, warm weather, and incredible beaches. We have the perfect road trip along the Pacific Coast which offers all that and so much more! Take a break and let us do the planning for you on this 10–14-day journey.
Starting from the south east of Queensland all the way up to the tropical north, discover lush national parks, rainforests, and a stunning coastline which includes the famous Great Barrier Reef. Knowing that each day will be different, it’s sure to be a memorable holiday.
Starting off on the Sunshine Coast
What better way to start your trip than escaping to the wide-open spaces that the Sunshine Coast has to offer! This coastline stretches across 100km and is home to pristine beaches and spectacular rural hinterlands. It’s perfect for an action-packed getaway or finding your own stretch of sand on Mooloolaba Beach. Take an easy 20-minute stroll from Mooloolaba Beach to Alexandra Headland, where you will find the most picturesque views. Go on a hike, take a cruise, visit the underwater wonderworld, or enjoy a refreshing drink in the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Be close to all the action and come say ‘G’day’ to us at Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Alex Beach Cabins & Tourist Park
Sunshine Coast to Noosa – 30 Minutes
Only 30 minutes down the road, you’ll arrive at Noosa Heads. With an array of local attractions, ranging from the natural beauty of pristine beaches, tranquil rainforests, and renowned Hastings Street, bustling with some of the world’s best restaurants and cafés. For boaties, the local ramp is just 800m away, so you’ll easily be able to launch your boat to head out and enjoy the beautiful blue waters surrounding Noosa. Regardless of the style of holiday you’re looking for, Noosa offers the perfect escape.
Noosa to Hervey Bay – 2.5 hours
Visit Australia’s premier whale watching destination, Hervey Bay, just two and a half hours from Noosa, and watch these gentle giants frolic around right in front of your eyes. If you are visiting between July and October, a whale watching tour is a must. Not only can you see these majestic creatures up close, you can even swim alongside them and appreciate how big they truly are. Explore a little further and get off the beaten track through the rugged bushland, visit the jaw dropping Lake McKenzie, or simply soak up the sunshine on the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island or K’gari. With several parks in this region, the options are endless.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay
Fraser Coast Holiday Park
Rainbow Beach Holiday Village
Tin Can Bay Tourist Park
Hervey Bay to Bundaberg – 1.5 hours
Next stop is only an hour and a half away, the sunny southern Great Barrier Reef region of Bundaberg! Australia’s most famous Bundaberg rum distillery is a must-do for all tourists, especially spirit lovers. Tours and tastings are offered daily, and there is also an opportunity to blend you own. Other terrific experiences include the intimate turtle encounter, swimming with the manta rays at Lady Elliot Island, snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef, or visiting the Bert Hinkler Museum. On top of that, there are national parks, scenic drives, fabulous fishing, food and drink experiences, plus galleries, museums, shopping, and exceptional eateries to tempt you. Bundaberg is a destination that deserves ‘top-of-list’ status.
Bundaberg to Gladstone – 2.5 hours
Moving along the southern Great Barrier Reef, two and a half hours’ drive from Bundaberg is the town of Gladstone. The perfect oasis filled with multi-coloured sunsets and year-round warm climates. Snorkel through the crystal-clear waters where there is an array of marine life and coral, and leave footprints in the white sand alongside those made by turtles. Make your way down the coastline to Tannum Sands and find a water-sports paradise with stand-up paddle-boarding, jet skis, wind surfers, and more! Sit back and put your feet up under the shade of the trees dotted along the shore. If you’re searching for true relaxation, this region is the place to stop and unwind.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Captain Cook Holiday Village
Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands
Gladstone to Rockhampton/Yeppoon – 1.5 hours
Rockhampton is your next stop, just a quick drive down the coast from Gladstone. It’s a region that offers a modern riverside setting and is home to Australia’s second largest river system, Fitzroy Basin. Begin your adventure with a drive to the peak of Mount Archer for spectacular panoramic views or get up close and personal with crocodiles at Koorana Crocodile Park. Take a trip to the unforgettable Capricorn Coast and a cruise to Great Keppel Island is a must. Getting there is half the fun— think coral viewing, fish feeding, snorkelling, and swimming. When you arrive, enjoy a bushwalk or just soak in the magnificence of Keppel Bay. Head down to the seaside town of Yeppoon, just north of Rockhampton, and sit on the harbour for dinner and sundowners whilst overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Discovery Parks - Coolwaters Yeppoon
Discovery Parks - Rockhampton
Tasman Holiday Parks - Fisherman’s Beach
Great Keppel Island Hideaway
Southside Holiday Village
Yeppoon to Airlie Beach – 5.5 hours
Pack some snacks for the next drive as we are heading all the way up to Airlie Beach, five and a half hours from Yeppoon. Airlie Beach is known as the gateway for the Whitsundays. It is, however, a worthy destination in its own right, a tropical paradise in the rainforest of Conway National Park and the mainland hub of the Whitsundays. There is no shortage of incredible tours surrounding this island, from snorkelling and boat rides to rainforest tours and walking trails. It is no wonder this place is on most people’s bucket lists. Most day trips on the water include a visit to world famous Whitehaven Beach, named the second best beach in the entire world! Watch the sun set with a drink in hand while you reminisce on the adventures you’ve had so far.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach
Tasman Holiday Parks - Airlie Beach
Bowen Holiday Park
Airlie Beach to Townsville – 3 hours
Placed in the dry tropics and a sailing trip away from the koalas of Magnetic Island, Townsville is a magnificent town among the palms. The town is your oyster with a holiday itinerary that will leave a sparkle in your eye. Try wreck diving at SS Yongala, follow the city’s street art trail, or go on a bush-to-beach bareback horse-riding tour around Horseshoe Bay. The once quiet coastal town has now transformed into a modern city, making it the ideal place to discover and appreciate the abundance of nature.
Nearest G'day Parks:
Coral Coast Tourist Park
Discovery Parks - Towsnville
Tasman Holiday Parks - Rollingstone
Townsville Tourist & Lifestyle Village
Ingham Tourist Park
Cairns
Queensland evokes thoughts of beautiful sunny weather and a laid-back lifestyle, the ideal combo to indulge in pure holiday bliss, and that’s exactly what Cairns has to offer. Some of the must-dos whilst visiting Cairns include the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway, and the Kuranda Village. Breathe in the salt air while you explore infinite tropical islands or visit one of the best kept secrets of the area, Lake Placid and its surrounds. With crystal clear waters, a tropical rainforest environment, and situated right near the World Heritage area of the Barron River Gorge National Park, Lake Placid is the perfect choice for those looking for a more peaceful location. From the fun and excitement of Cairns city, through to the peace and tropical tranquillity of Lake Placid, you have everything you need to end this holiday of a lifetime with a bang!
Nearest G'day Parks:
First City Caravilla
Lake Placid Rainforest Retreat
Barrier Reef Tourist Park
Crystal Cascades Tourist Park
The southern Great Barrier Reef prides itself on the quintessential Queensland holiday, so why not hit the road and experience this unforgettable journey.