Australia East Coast Road Trip: Our 3-Week Route from Cairns to Brisbane

A road trip along the East Coast of Australia is one of the most beautiful routes in the country. Between the tropical north around Cairns and the vibrant metropolis of Brisbane, you can expect natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, endless dream beaches, koalas in the wild, and real adventure islands like Magnetic Island, Dunk Island, or K'Gari (Fraser Island).

We chose to make a three-week trip in April - starting in Port Douglas/Cairns and ending in Brisbane. Initially, we stayed in hotels (Port Douglas and Cairns) and then transitioned to a campervan - the perfect combination of comfort and freedom.

In this post, I'll show you our detailed route, provide tips on accommodations, tours, and highlights, as well as many personal recommendations for photo spots, experiences, and things I'd do differently next time.

In three weeks, I traveled from Cairns to Brisbane. This route is perfect for anyone wanting to discover the East Coast of Australia flexibly: I combined nature experiences with relaxation, adventure, and cultural insights - stress-free, but with plenty of variety. I'm not someone who just lounges on beaches. I want to experience things. I would have loved to visit more places, but time was limited.

For my first time on the East Coast, I found this route ideal.

Here you can find the entire route with all stops on a map as well as an overview of my daily stages:

Tip: I recommend planning for at least 18-20 days for this route so that you don't just rush from highlight to highlight, but can truly enjoy the nature and atmosphere. The time we had was perfect. If you want, you can then fly to Sydney. Unfortunately, we didn't have any time left and plan to do the next trip from Brisbane to Sydney or Melbourne.

For detailed information about each location, detailed articles will follow here (to be updated):

After a long but relaxing flight over Singapore with Singapore Airlines, I arrived in Cairns late in the afternoon. With the rental car, it took about 1 hour to drive directly to the Pullman Sea Temple in Port Douglas, where I settled in quietly. In the evening, I enjoyed my first dinner at the hotel restaurant Aluco - relaxed and perfect for settling in and acclimatizing.

Right the next morning, we headed out to the reef - with Silversonic, I visited three different snorkeling spots on the Outer Reef. The water was crystal clear and the underwater world was breathtaking. In the afternoon, I visited the Coral Biobank project - an impressive initiative for coral preservation.

Today I took part in a cultural tour with an Indigenous guide through the Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge. We learned a lot about plants, traditional medicine, and the connection to the land. Afterwards, I drove along one of Australia's most beautiful coastal roads to Cairns - with a photo stop at the viewpoint at Rex Lookout. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't ideal, so we didn't take any pictures.

-> Here you can find a detailed article about the tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures and Juan. Highly recommended.

Another highlight was on the agenda: We took a red-and-white catamaran to two exclusive snorkeling spots at the outer Great Barrier Reef. The tour was not only beautiful but also sustainably organized - with a lot of expertise and a motivated team. We were biologists for a day and learned a lot about the reef and the corals. More info can be found in my article about the exploration of the Great Barrier Reef.

Since the originally planned tour with Mandingalbay was canceled, we took the Skyrail over the rainforest to Kuranda in the morning. Before heading into town, we took a tour with a ranger (free). Then we met Ranger Peter - a German expat. On a guided hike, we received many exciting insights into the rainforest's plant life. We didn't see any cassowaries, but we did encounter a magnificent giant Golden Orb Spider.

For those who do not want to experience the Great Barrier Reef in the water - whether due to seasickness, a phobia of water, or with small children - Cairns offers a great alternative: the Cairns Aquarium. It is the only aquarium in the world solely focusing on the aquatic wildlife of North Queensland - thus, on the two UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest.

The exhibition takes you through ten different ecosystems - from rainforest rivers to mangroves to the depths of the reef. In 71 aquariums live rare, sometimes endangered species such as freshwater sawfish, giant barramundi, reef sharks, and glowing jellyfish. Especially beautiful: the presentation is informative, calm, and family-friendly - ideal for children and anyone who prefers to discover the reef on dry land.

In the morning, we picked up our campervan from Star RV and drove leisurely to Mission Beach - about two and a half hours south of Cairns.

Along the way, we stopped at the Josephine Falls - a short hike leads to a beautiful waterfall with a natural slide. Here you can take the opportunity for a refreshing break in the cool water.

Note: Don't forget mosquito spray and watch out for leeches along the way!

Then we traveled to Etty Bay, a tranquil palm beach that looks like something out of a postcard. Here we actually saw a cassowary calmly walking along the edge of the forest - a very special moment.

We took an extended beach walk before checking in at The Elandra Resort in Mission Beach late in the afternoon.

Surprise: Just before the reception, we encountered another cassowary. These rare animals are not only fascinating - they also play an essential role in the survival of the Daintree Rainforest by spreading seeds that no other animal can transport.

Originally, a snorkeling tour at Beaver Reef was planned - but the weather put a damper on that. Instead, we spontaneously booked a tour based on Ian's recommendation from wottaviewtours.com. A real stroke of luck! We stopped on a road where a cassowary walked right in front of our car.

First, Ian took us to the Lower Attie Creek, with turquoise water and a small natural pool.

Tip: We were almost alone there early in the morning. But don't forget mosquito spray, especially here!

Next, we headed to the much less visited Upper Attie Creek, a true hidden gem! After a hike of about 800 meters through the rainforest, we reached the waterfall - a little-visited spot. We jumped into the water again to cool off.

After that, we went to the Cardwell Spa Pools, located in turquoise water among eucalyptus trees. Stunning and also a great spot for swimming.

We jumped into the water everywhere - beautiful, but again, remember the mosquito spray! Otherwise, you'll be completely bitten.

From the Cardwell Lookout, I enjoyed a wide view over the coast and the green hills of the Hinchinbrook region. From here we could see our next destination: Dunk Island.

But first, we headed to Tully, where a giant gumboot reminded us that we were in the place recognized as the wettest in Australia.

In the afternoon, the ferry took us to Dunk Island. We were the first guests in the new Eco Tent - right by the sea, in the middle of the tropical forest. I fell asleep to the sound of the ocean - it doesn't get more glamping than this.

Dunk Island is part of the Family Islands and is only about 20 minutes by boat from Mission Beach. The island was once known as a tropical luxury destination with a famous resort that was heavily hit by Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

Since then, the former Dunk Island Resort has been permanently closed - large parts of the island are still undeveloped or only partially accessible. Dunk Island is currently reopening for guests and is truly a hidden gem as a natural paradise.

We explored the island as best we could. We hiked along the beach, through the woods, and simply enjoyed the tranquility. In the evening, we were deliciously catered to. It's a paradise.

After a peaceful night in the Eco Tent, I woke up to the sound of the ocean and enjoyed the sunrise right in front of the tent entrance. After a great breakfast, we took the boat back to Mission Beach, where we began the proper camper road trip.

The drive to Townsville takes about three hours. If you didn't do the tour like we did the day before, the natural rivers await you.

If you have extra time, you can also detour to the Wallaman Falls - at 268 meters, this is the highest single-drop waterfall in Australia. However, when we were there, the road was closed, and we were also advised against it with the camper.

In the late afternoon, I arrived in Townsville. We used the evening to take a stroll along the promenade and prepared for the island adventure the next day.

On Day 10 of our road trip, a highlight awaits: a day trip to the sunny Magnetic Island (Yunbenun) - just 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville.

I wrote a detailed post about this day trip: My Highlights on Magnetic Island for a Day.

My conclusion: A day trip is worth it, take an early ferry like we did (7:45 AM) and return in the evening. Hike to the bays to avoid crowds (despite it being Easter for us). Do the Forts Walk in the morning, then it won't be so busy.

Attention: An international driver's license is required here! Without it, the rental car insurance is void, and you cannot rent a car.

In the late afternoon, we took the ferry back to Townsville. We spent one more night there and ended the day peacefully.

Today we are leaving Townsville behind and heading south. But first, I want to explore street art in Townsville. Among other things, ROA has painted artworks on the walls here.

If you have more time, you should hike to the prominent mountain in Townsville: Castle Hill. It is centrally located in the city and at about 286 meters tall, it is the landmark of Townsville. From the top, you probably have fantastic 360-degree panoramic views over the city, all the way to Magnetic Island (tip from locals: take the "Goat Track" for hiking, but you can also drive up). It was super foggy when we were there, so we only looked at the street art and visited a café.

The destination for today is the coastal town of Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. The drive takes about three hours and passes through varied landscapes: sugarcane fields, coastal plains, and small roadhouse towns alternate.

Just before Bowen, we stopped at Horseshoe Bay. One of the region's most beautiful beaches. We walked to the viewpoint over the bay and enjoyed the view of the turquoise water framed by granite rocks. A bit further, the Flagstaff Hill Lookout offers a wide view over the coastal line of Bowen.

We had a light meal in the camper, then went to a café on the beach and sunbathed a little on the sandy beach overlooking the sea. We weren't in a hurry and enjoyed the sun and this beautiful bay. A dream! If we had more time on our road trip, we would have spent a night here.

On the way, we discovered that Bowen is the place for mangos. Unfortunately, we were outside of the season, so the stop (often recommended) at the "Big Mango" (Google Maps) was rather disappointing. Aside from the Tourist Information and Shop, there was nothing going on.

In the afternoon, we arrived in Airlie Beach and checked into the well-kept NRMA Holiday Park. The place is small, relaxed, and popular among backpackers as well as sailing and fishing enthusiasts.

After that, we ended the day at Airlie Beach Lagoon and were already planning the highlight for tomorrow - Whitsunday Islands from the air and the water.

The day starts early: At 7:25 AM, we are picked up directly at the Holiday Park. First, we have a scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef scheduled - an experience I will never forget. From the air, I see the turquoise water, the bright white sands of Whitehaven Beach, and the Heart Reef - the famous heart-shaped coral formation. Sitting by the window, I am left speechless, struggling to hold back my tears.

Back on solid ground, we seamlessly continue with the Ocean Rafting Tour. The raft boat tour is a perfect complement to the aerial perspective.

We set off by boat towards the Whitsunday Islands and first head to a sheltered reef for snorkeling. Unfortunately, the water is not very clear today.

Next, we visit the Hill Inlet Lookout: The view of the mingling sand and water colors at Whitehaven Beach is spectacular. For me, one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. It is hard to capture in a picture.

To finish, we have time to swim at South Whitehaven Beach, famous for its fine silica sand.

In the late afternoon, the boat brings us back to Airlie Beach. We are tired but completely thrilled - this day was undoubtedly one of the big highlights of the entire trip.

We start early to drive to Cape Hillsborough Beach - known for its kangaroos on the beach at sunrise. Since these are now fed by the ranger(!) and no longer come to the beach due to nature (read the reviews on Google here), we decide against arriving at sunrise. I do not support this kind of tourism.

I deliberately forgo this spectacle, and instead, we take a beach walk at low tide. The path leads us along the broad beach to Wedge Island Beach, which is accessible on foot at low tide. The scenery is calm, pristine, and absolutely worth seeing.

After a hearty breakfast/lunch on the provided tables and benches, we continue our journey south.

We stop at the Sarina Sugar Shed, but unfortunately, it's closed due to the Easter holidays. There's also nothing to see at Dugong Sanctuary - the water is too shallow (low tide). Too bad, Manatees (or Dugong) are really cool. It still feels good to stretch our legs for a bit.

In the afternoon, we spontaneously visit the Capricorn Caves, where we join a 45-minute guided tour. The caves impress with their acoustics and narrow passages. If you've never been in a cave, you should visit these. I was less impressed; the Cango Caves in South Africa are much more imposing (sorry, Capricorn Caves).

In the evening, we reach Agnes Water and 1770. Due to the holidays, all campsites are booked, so we improvise and spend the night at a quiet spot right on the coast by 1770, with the sound of the ocean and sunset as a reward. It was already dark when I thought about taking photos. Sorry.

After we explored 1770 and the tip at Bustard Bay Lookout, we had breakfast in Agnes Water and took a beach walk. With the huge motorhome, many spots I have noted were unreachable. The Paperbark Forest Walk seems to be no longer available. We could only access Chinaman's Beach and the Red Rock Trail through a longer walk since there is no nearby parking for us. Unfortunately, we have no time.

We continue our journey towards Hervey Bay, about 225 kilometers south of Agnes Water. On the way, I make a stop in Bundaberg. The city is known for its rum and popular ginger beer, which you can also buy in Germany.

At the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, all tours are already fully booked - I highly recommend reserving in advance. However, at the visitor center and shop, all guests can partake in tastings right at the counter and purchase rum packages. I also joined a small tasting and tried various kinds - a great way to get an overview.

Similarly, no guided tastings are available at Bundaberg Brewed Drinks anymore, but I stocked up on several soda varieties at the shop. Besides ginger beer, there are many unusual flavors that are also available in local supermarkets - my personal conclusion: they're too sweet for me, but it's worth trying them.

Next, we'll make a quick stop in Maryborough - a pretty, historic place that's especially interesting for Mary Poppins fans. The author P.L. Travers was born here, and a statue in the city center commemorates the famous character with an umbrella. Perfect for a quick photo and a brief stroll. Take a picture of the traffic light and walk along the street. You'll find some Mary Poppins memorabilia here.

Unfortunately, the museum (The Story Bank) was closed due to Easter. Maybe you'll have better timing.

We arrive in Hervey Bay in the afternoon and check into Discovery Parks Hervey Bay.

In the evening, we take a Champagne Sunset Cruise and enjoy the atmosphere aboard with finger food and bubbles. In my opinion, the tour is not a must, as besides the beautiful light and a sunset over the sea (which was truly beautiful) and loads of bats in the air, there wasn't much to see. It was still an experience.

Early in the morning, we take the early ferry at 7:00 AM over to K'gari, the largest sand island in the world. My tour starts directly at the resort with K'gari Explorers. What initially felt like bad luck (we wanted a transfer from the campsite, but it wasn't available, so we had to drive to the ferry in our camper and then cross) turned into pure luck: This group consists of only ten people, significantly smaller than the large bus tour from the mainland (which was fully booked). Our guide Butch is fantastic: very experienced, knowledgeable, and with great respect for the culture of the Butchulla people.

We drive along sandy tracks through the Great Sandy National Park and stop first at the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, where we, of course, go swimming. On the way down, we even spot a Carpet Python right by the path - not venomous but awe-inspiring. Afterwards, we explore the former research station 'Central Station', hike through the dense forest with King ferns, and learn more about the island's fragile ecosystem.

Following the famous 75 Mile Beach, officially regarded as a road, we continue on to the colorful Pinnacles and the Maheno shipwreck. At Eli Creek, we take a break - it's Easter, accordingly busy, but I just let myself float in the cool water.

In the late afternoon, the ferry brings us back to Hervey Bay. We are tired but felt the tour was really good. With more time, a night on K'Gari would definitely be worthwhile to also explore the northern locations. K'gari is incredibly wild and beautiful and, with the right guide, an absolute highlight.

Today we are headed to Noosa, a charming spot on the Sunshine Coast that immediately won our hearts. After about a 2.5 hours drive, we arrive at the campsite. We don't stay here long and head to Noosa National Park (tip: take an Uber, parking is limited). There, we take a long walk along the coast. The path winds along well-maintained trails past bays, cliffs, and viewpoints like Dolphin Point. Numerous opportunities for swimming arise - the water is clear and refreshing.

Theoretically, you can also see koalas here; we had no luck today, although we ventured further into the woods.

After our walk, we strolled through Noosa Heads, which immediately enchanted me with its relaxed atmosphere and lovingly designed shops. We wandered along Hastings Street, discovering many small boutiques and lovely cafés - a genuinely sweet and stylish destination that we liked exceptionally well.

On our last real night in Australia, we treated ourselves to a meal at Bang Bang Noosa - modern Asian street food with fantastic flavors. The atmosphere is superb, the food fantastic, but the cocktails were off-point. By the way, there are many more restaurants in the immediate vicinity. It was one of the most beautiful places of the trip. I would love to come back here.

Today is the last leg of our road trip: From Noosa, we head to Brisbane in just under two hours. First, we drop off the camper and securely store our luggage at the airport for AUD 20 before exploring the city.

Brisbane pleasantly surprises us: The city is modern, young, and very laid-back. We take an Uber from the airport to downtown and walk to South Bank, where we stroll through the parklands along the Brisbane River.

Particularly recommended is the new building 'The Star' with a free observation deck - including a glass floor that offers a peek downwards. If you like, you can also ride the Ferris wheel or wander through the markets and cafés of South Bank. We enjoy our final hours with a drink and a view.

Read here in my detailed report with all sights and tips for Brisbane.

In the evening, we fly from Brisbane through Singapore back to Frankfurt - with unforgettable impressions in our luggage. East Coast, you did not disappoint me.

The best time for a road trip along the East Coast is from April to October. I traveled in April - after the rainy season and just before the Australian winter. The temperatures are pleasantly warm, there are fewer tourists than during peak season (Dec-Feb), and the humidity is significantly lower.

-> Read also: Best Time to Visit Australia

If you like to read while on the go or need specific tips, I highly recommend the Travel Know-How Australia East Coast guide. For digital navigation and route planning, I also used Google Maps, WikiCamps, and the 'Fuel Map Australia' app - especially helpful for campsites and cheap gas stations.

I completed part of the journey in a camper - it gives you maximum flexibility. I had particularly good experiences with providers like Apollo, Jucy, and Britz. My tip: Book the camper well in advance, especially if you're traveling around Easter or during the Australian school holidays. Camping dishes, bedding, and standard insurance are usually included.

-> Read also: Renting a Camper in Australia - Tips & Comparison

For Australia, you need a free eVisitor visa that you can apply for online. I recommend submitting the application at least two weeks before departure - usually, it gets approved within a few hours anyway. You should also fill out the digital entry declaration (DPD) before your departure. An international credit card and an adapter for Australian outlets also belong in your luggage.

-> Read also: Entry to Australia - Visa & Preparation Tips

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