The Pacific Coast – Brisbane to Cairns Itinerary

Brisbane is Queensland's capital city. With subtropical weather all year round and a wealth of cultural attractions, world class arts and impressive natural wonders it's an exciting destination to begin your Australian Pacific Coast Self Drive Tour.

After checking in at your centrally located accommodation, a relaxing way to explore is to take to the water. The Brisbane River runs right through town and you can take a guided cruise past Brisbane’s most iconic sights including the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, City Centre and the Story Bridge.

Alternatively, stroll along the footpath by the side of the meandering river till you reach the sparkling man-made lagoon for a refreshing swim or a delicious dinner at trendy South Bank.

Accommodation: Brisbane - 1 Night

Take a scenic drive to Noosa, one of Australia's best-loved beachside destinations. En route, you may wish to stop at Australia Zoo to cuddle a koala or hand-feed kangaroos. Founded by the late Steve Irwin, known to millions worldwide as TV's Crocodile Hunter.

The Zoo is passionate about preserving Australia's incredible creatures and introducing them to international visitors.

Surrounded by stunning beaches and the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park, the resort town of Noosa is famed for its surf. Home to luxurious day spas, world-class golf courses and stylish shopping, it's a fun destination to explore.

Approximate Distance: 140 km | 87 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Noosa - 2 Nights

Enjoy abundant wildlife spotting and photographic opportunities on a cruise of the Noosa Everglades: one of only two Everglades systems on the planet.

Board your purpose-built vessel at Habitat Noosa for a cruise along the pristine Lake Cootharaba. Enjoy an afternoon cruise through the mirrored waterways of Australia’s only Everglades. Enjoy the ample photo opportunities from this wildlife-rich natural environment.

Included Meals: Lunch

Travel to the pristine beaches of Hervey Bay: it's also known as the Whale Watch Capital of the World. This charming coastal city has a pleasant subtropical climate and some very special tourists who return annually. Between July and November whales migrate to the safe, sheltered waters of Hervey Bay.

The calm waters of Hervey Bay make it an ideal watersports location for all the family: swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing are all popular pastimes.

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Hervey Bay - 2 Nights

This World Heritage listed island is decorated with spectacular coloured sands, perched freshwater lakes and towering rainforests. The island is filled with wildlife from Dingos to Goannas and many bird species. Humpback Whales are also known to be seen in the area, on their return to the Antarctic. 

Keep an eye out for turtles, dolphins and a large variety of coral, fish and giant manta rays. Tour highlights include a visit and swim at Lake McKenzie, the coloured sand beaches and a rainforest walk at Central Station. You will also enjoy a buffet lunch at Eurong Beach Resort.

Included Meals: Lunch

Drive onwards to Rockhampton, a heritage-filled town where you can step back in time and discover the rich history of the area. With over 2.5 million cattle within a 250km radius of the city, the "Beef Capital" title is well deserved

The charming Victorian architecture reflects the glory days of Rockhampton's 19th-century mining and beef-rearing industries. There are many heritage post offices, historic streetscapes, majestic cathedrals and quaint homes to admire.

Approximate Distance: 382 km | 238 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Rockhampton - 2 Nights

Spend today exploring Rockhampton at your own pace, a regional Queensland hub known for its blend of nature, culture and authentic outback character. Take in panoramic views from Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park or visit the free zoo for a relaxed encounter with native wildlife. For those seeking adventure, the Capricorn Caves offer an unforgettable journey through ancient limestone formations shaped over millions of years, with narrow passages and dramatic underground chambers to explore. Alternatively, immerse yourself in First Nations culture at the Dreamtime Cultural Centre, set on Darumbal Country, where storytelling, performances and native plant knowledge bring deep cultural connections to life.

Continue north to Airlie Beach, a relaxed Australian resort town on Queensland's Whitsunday Coast. Palm-fringed beaches and waterfront parks are a staple of this seriously laid-back holiday destination. 

After your long drive, cool off at Airlie Beach Lagoon between the beach and the main street. Here you can swim all year round and there are even Lifeguards on duty in the daylight hours.

Airlie Beach is the perfect launch pad for day trips to the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Only seven of these beautiful islands are developed, and the rest are just begging to be enjoyed by travellers looking for a secluded beach to call their own.

Approximate Distance: 481 km | 299 miles   Total Driving Time: 5 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Airlie Beach - 2 Nights 

Spend a full day soaking up the sunshine among the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands with jaw-dropping coastal scenery all around you.  Embark on a cruise to the stunning 7km-long Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. 

At the northern end, enjoy a leisurely 1.3km guided hike to the Hill Inlet lookout, following a path once walked by the Ngaro people, the traditional owners of the Whitsundays. At the southern end, unwind with a swim, relax on the pristine sand, or climb the stairs to the Whitehaven Beach Lookout for sweeping views. Finish your visit with a delicious gourmet burger on the beach.

Included Meals: Lunch

Make your way north to Townsville, Australia's largest tropical city. Townsville's many attractions include the world's largest living coral reef aquarium - Reef HQ, a wildlife sanctuary, beaches, museums, theatres and restaurants. 

Beautiful Magnetic Island is just 20 minutes from the city centre by Fast Cat ferry. Today is free for you to spend it how you wish.

Accommodation: Townsville - 1 Night

Approximate Distance: 275 km | 171 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 9 mins

Your Pacific Coast road trip continues with a drive to Cairns in Queensland's tropical north. With its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a haven of scuba diving, snorkelling, reef cruises, all types of fishing, rainforest walks, native bird and wildlife watching.

Sun-seekers and locals alike flock to Cairns Esplanade's swimming lagoon on the city’s foreshore. There are picnic areas, birdwatching viewpoints, free barbecues and fitness equipment along the boardwalk, perfect for unwinding after your drive.

Approximate Distance: 350 km | 217 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Cairns - 3 Nights

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Billy Tea Safaris aboard our custom 4WD vehicles, where you'll explore the stunning flora, fauna, and diverse landscapes of the Daintree Rainforest -- the oldest continually surviving rainforest on Earth. 

This immersive wet-tropics experience includes a scenic coastal drive, a soothing Daintree River cruise, and a guided rainforest walk that unveils the unique ecosystems of the area. Enjoy a delicious lunch in a picturesque rainforest setting, take the chance for a refreshing swim, and relax with some free time at Cape Tribulation Beach. You'll also indulge in complimentary tropical fruit ice cream and cross the Daintree River on a cable ferry, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

Included Meals: Lunch

Dial up the luxury with VIP access to the exclusive Gold Class Lounge aboard Evolution, a state-of-the-art super-yacht catamaran. Located on the upper deck, this premium space combines the stability and amenities of a large vessel with the privacy and service of a private charter at a fraction of the cost. Guests enjoy a dedicated concierge service, personalised touches, and exclusive inclusions designed to elevate their Great Barrier Reef adventure. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, families, or groups of up to eight, Gold Class offers an unmatched reef experience that blends comfort, style, and value in one unforgettable journey.

Say farewell to Cairns today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience. We know you will enjoy your 14 Day Pacific Coast Self Drive vacation and we hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.