Email Us
brisbane to sydney road trip itinerary COVER

Epic Brisbane to Sydney Road Trip Itinerary

AUTHOR: PETRINA DARRAH

 

Experience the best of Australia's East Coast with this jam-packed two-week roadie 

The Pacific Highway is a highlight reel of Australian beaches and aquatic activities. Driving from Brisbane to Sydney is a distance of about 900 kilometres, which translates into 12 hours driving time, roughly two weeks of adventure, and countless moments spent absorbing the beauty of stunning beaches, peachy sunrises, and the uncomplicated life on the East Coast of Australia. 

To ensure you make the best out of this unforgettable experience, we've put together an epic guide for your Australian adventure tour (if we do say so ourselves!), so you know where to stop, stay, and play as you travel from Brisbane to Sydney in your JUCY Australia campervan hire.  

ESSENTIAL DETAILS

Brisbane to Sydney drive time: 10 hours.

Number of days needed: 12-14 days

 

How to get from Brisbane to Sydney? 

Pick up acheap campervan rental from Brisbane and drop it off at our Sydney campervan rental branch. You'll have more freedom to find campgrounds near the beach and wake up next to endless views. You'llprobably follow the Pacific Highway (A1) most of the way, but we recommend taking plenty of detours and smaller roads as well - follow your curiosity! 

Top sights to see on the drive from Brisbane to Sydney:

BRISBANE TO GOLD COAST

75 km - 1 hour

The first stop on this epic road trip is the Gold Coast - flashy, beautiful, and fun. Stop here for a night or two to take in some of the big-ticket tourist items in Australia. 

WHAT TO DO IN THE GOLD COAST

  • Skydive with Gold Coast Skydiving: Get the best view on the Gold Coast - from mid-air! A skydive withGold Coast Skydiving is a massive adrenaline rush and one of the most exciting things to do in the Gold Coast! 

  • Visit the Theme Parks: Rediscover your inner child atMovie World, with exciting rides, entertaining shows, and movie magic at Movie World. 

  • Surf Lessons with Get Wet Surf: Learn to ride the waves with Get Wet surf lessons tailored for beginners and those looking to improve their skills. 

  • Explore Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Surrounded by 27 hectares of Currumbin Rainforest, you can't miss this iconic experience. Feed kangaroos and cuddle koalas as you wander through open animal enclosures. Or discover the brand-new precinct Lost Valley, where you can spot exotic animals such as flying birds, lemurs, capybaras and more.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GOLD COAST

The entire Gold Coast is adorned with gorgeous beaches, so you have a vast array of options when it comes to choosing a place to stay. We recommend basing yourself at Ingenia Holidays Kingscliff, a holiday park with a range of accommodation options. 

It's an excellent base for exploring the coast, as it's set among 10 acres of subtropical gardens and near to some of the more secret - that means quieter - Gold Coast beaches. 

red panda in currumbin animal sanctuary gold coast

GOLD COAST TO BYRON BAY

95 km - 1 hour 15 minutes

From the GC, stop number three takes you over the border into New South Wales, to the groovy and laid-back Byron Bay. 

Fun fact: Byron Bay is the easternmost point of Australia. It's also the boho capital of Australia - you'll love the creative, welcoming vibe. There are plenty of beachy activities to take advantage of, as well as creative markets where you can find some of the best local produce or unique souvenirs. 

WHAT TO DO IN BYRON BAY

  • Surf Lessons with Mojosurf:These surf lessons are perfect for beginners or those looking to improve their skills on Byron Bay's iconic waves. 

  • Cape Byron Lighthouse: Catch a stunning sunrise and spot dolphins from this iconic viewpoint. 

  • Whale Watching at Captain Cook Lookout: From June to November, look out for humpback whales migrating along the coast. 

  • Local Markets:Explore the Byron Bay Artisan Market and Farmers Market for unique souvenirs and fresh local produce. Too good! 

  • Snorkelling at Julian Rocks:Discover diverse marine life, including tropical fish and turtles, in this vibrant marine reserve. 

  • Arakwal National Park:Enjoy a peaceful beach day surrounded by pristine sand and crystal-clear waters. 

WHERE TO STAY IN BYRON BAY

The First Sun Holiday Park is right by the beach and close to the centre of town. It's a comfortable and convenient place to park up for a night or two.

fresh fruits and vegetables from byron bay farmers market

BYRON BAY TO MINNIE WATER

230 km - 2 hours 30 minutes

Stop number three takes you to the tiny coastal town of Minnie Water - a calm place to stopover for a night when driving the Pacific Highway. Surrounded by Yuraygir National Park, the village comes alive in spring when many of the 120 species of wildflower in the area come into bloom. It's a quiet place to get away from the Pacific Highway for a night. 

WHAT TO DO IN MINNIE WATER

  • Fish Straight from the Rocks: A serene spot for fishing enthusiasts, cast your line straight from the beach rocks. 

  • Rocky Point Walk:Explore tidal pools and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rocky Point Walk. The area is rich with marine life and offers stunning coastal views. 

  • Swim in Minnie Lagoon:Take a dip in the calm waters of Minnie Lagoon. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim and a great way to unwind after being on the road

WHERE TO STAY IN MINNIE WATER

Illaroo Campground has an excellent price to beauty ratio. This is an exceptionally scenic campsite, which is quiet, scenic, and just a stone's throw from the beach. 

Side Quest - Girraween National Park 

If you’re up for an adventure, on your way to Minnie Water, take a side trip to Girraween National Park. Although it'll add a day to your trip, you won't want to miss the unique granite landscapes, walking trails, and stunning wildflower displays! 

MINNIE WATER TO NAMBUCCA HEADS

150 km - 2 hours

Nambucca Heads is something of a hidden gem. With a chilled country feel, it's the perfect place to stop for a surf break. There's plenty of natural beauty to enjoy, from deserted beaches to the glittering estuary and the nearby rainforest. 

Make a pit stop at Coffs Harbour, where you can explore the Big Banana, beautiful beaches, and the vibrant marina. 

WHAT TO DO IN NAMBUCCA HEADS

  • Walk the V Wall:Known as the outdoor gallery of Nambucca Heads, this sea wall consists of many brightly decorated rocks, painted with sweet and inspiring words or even touching memories. If you're feeling creative, you can even add your own! 

  • Nyambagga Walking Trail: This coastal walkway runs from Wellington Rock to Shelley Beach and will give you lots of pretty views of the area. At 1-2 hours, it'sa great way to spend an afternoon.  

  • Captain Cook's Lookout:Hike up to this lookout for panoramic views of the river, estuary, and surrounding beaches. 

WHERE TO STAY IN NAMBUCCA HEADS

TheIngenia White Albatross Resort is set around a peaceful tidal lagoon. From here you can explore Nambucca's sun-drenched headlands via a river cruise, swim, or other water activity. 

jucy campervan driving pacific coast highway

MINNIE WATER TO PORT MACQUARIE

250 km - 3 hours

As you continue to head south, you'll find Port Macquarie—a pleasant mix of cosmopolitan and naturally beautiful. You can explore the gorgeous beaches in the area by day and the local bars by night. 

On the way, make sure to check out South West Rocks, known for a series of beautiful little beaches and a historic spot called Trial Bay Gaol. 

WHAT TO DO IN PORT MACQUARIE

  • Stroll along the Break Wall:Walk along the breakwall, check out the colourful painted rocks, and if you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins playing in the surf. 

  • Coastal Walk: Take the scenic Coastal Walk from Town Beach to Tacking Point Lighthouse. It's about 9 kilometres of awesome views and chances to spot whales. 

  • Visit Queen's Lake Nature Reserve:Explore this peaceful spot and see if you can spot koalas hanging out in the gum trees. 

  • Sea Acres Rainforest Centre: Dive into the lush rainforest at Sea Acres. Wander the boardwalks and soak in the greenery and wildlife—it's a total nature escape in the centre of town. 

WHERE TO STAY IN PORT MACQUARIE

One of the top spots to stay in Port Macquarie is just 20 minutes south of the town. The Big4 Bonny Hills Holiday Park is perched right on the edge of the beautiful Rainbow Beach. 

Bonny Hills is more relaxed than Port Macquarie, so you can enjoy a laid-back beach holiday while still being within easy driving distance of the town. 

lighthouse byron bay at sunset

PORT MACQUARIE TO PORT STEPHENS

250 km - 2 hours 40 minutes

Port Stephens is another laid back beach region and one of the last places to stop on the road trip from Brisbane to Sydney. This is a scenic drive that'll show you some of the best coastal views on your way south. 

WHAT TO DO IN PORT STEPHENS

  • Climb Mount Tomaree: Hike up here for killer views over the coast - Instagram-worthy panoramas await. 

  • Stroll through Tomaree National Park: This place is all about chilled-out walks through nature. Think sandy beaches, cool trails, and maybe some wildlife spotting. 

WHERE TO STAY IN PORT STEPHENS

Close to yet another stunning Australian beach is Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach. This campground is perched right on the edge of the water. This prime location in Port Stephens makes this a desirable campground and an excellent base for exploring the surrounding bays and nature reserves. 

Side Quest 2.0 - Visit Barrington Tops National Park 

Feeling adventurous? Take a side trip to Barrington Tops National Park. Although about 1.5 hours from Port Stephens, it offers awesome rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and endless exploring if you're up for it! 

PORT STEPHENS TO SYDNEY

215 km - 3 hours

From Port Stephens, you can cruise south through Newcastle and the Central Coast region before arriving in Sydney - your final destination. 

WHAT TO DO ON THE CENTRAL COAST

  • Stop at Snapper Point Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and keep your eyes peeled for migrating whales during the season. 

  • Walk the Box Head Track:Get amongst nature with this scenic bushwalk offering stunning vistas over Broken Bay and the Hawkesbury River. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY

If you're dropping off yourcampervan hire in Sydney, you'll need a comfortable place to stay. Whether it's the end of a long road trip and you need to reset, or you're just gearing up to set off,Ingenia Sydney Hills is a great spot away from the stress of the city. 

Only an hour's drive from the CBD, this campground is a great base for exploring Sydney's beaches and even the Blue Mountains. 

couple sit in front of opera house

MORE BRISBANE ROAD TRIPS

Can't get enough of travelling Australia's East Coast? Check out these road trip itineraries for your Brisbane campervan hire or car rental - you're truly spoilt for choice: 

READY TO HIT THE ROAD?

Book your Australia campervan hire today or call our mega-friendly JUCY team on 1800 150 850 to discuss options for your Brisbane to Sydney road trip (or if you're feeling a little crazy, do the reserve and make it a Sydney to Brisbane road trip)! 

YOU'LL HAVE 10 TIMES THE FUN ON THE ROAD WITH A JUCY CAMPERVAN! BOOK TODAY.

 

Petrina Darrah is a freelance travel writer from New Zealand. Check out more of her work at petrinadarrah.com. 

Sign up to receive our deals, news and inspo.
Follow us
© Travvia. All rights reserved.