Embark on a road trip linking two of Australia’s most famous cities, Sydney to Brisbane itinerary! A 900-kilometre coastal route that stretches from central New South Wales to Southern Queensland. Discover our itinerary below to help plan the ideal Australian East Coast road trip. The itinerary includes the best places to stay, things to do, camping suggestions and car rental recommendations. Plan at least a week to soak up the long wild beaches, explore the enchanting rainforests and relax in the charm of the many seaside towns. Animal lovers will have unforgettable encounters and surfers can test world-famous waves. There is something for everyone! So, what are you waiting for?! Check out our Sydney to Brisbane drive itinerary!
Table of Contents
How to prepare for your Road Trip
Assess distances correctly
Nearly 1200 kilometres of road await you if you follow the itinerary of our article. Here are some indications on distances and travel times. But beware, there are no stops or detours!
- Sydney -> Port Stephens: 216 km, 2h40 drive
- Port Stephens -> Myall Lakes: 130 km, 1h40 drive
- Myall Lakes -> Port Macquarie: 218 km, 2 hour drive
- Port Macquarie -> Dorrigo National Park: 177 km, 2h10 drive
- Dorrigo National Park -> Byron Bay: 296 km, 3h20 drive
- Byron Bay -> Mullumbimby: 18 km, 20 min drive
- Mullumbimby -> Gold Coast: 84 km, 1 hour drive
- Gold Coast -> Brisbane: 80 km, 1h15 drive
For those who enjoy more of a slow pace, plan for 15 days of travel if you want to take your time. Otherwise, the itinerary is feasible over 7 days.
Pick your vehicle wisely
Take the time to compare the different models of vans / cars / 4WD or motorhomes. If you are going during a period when it can be cool (winter) or it can rain a lot (summer), having a van with a hi-top or a motorhome is a real advantage. This will allow you to shelter and be able to cook inside the vehicle.
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Budgeting your trip
For a road trip on the East Coast, it’s difficult to determine a precise budget, as it depends on a number of factors such as the mode of transport, accommodation, activities and food. However, on average, you can plan on a budget of around AUD 100 to 150 per day to cover basic costs such as petrol, accommodation and food. If you plan to do extra activities or eat out, you will need to budget more. It is advisable to make a detailed list of all your planned expenses in order to plan your budget effectively.
Example for Budgeting
Fuel
- Vehicle: SUV with fuel consumption of 8L/100 km
- Route: Sydney to Brisbane: 1100 km
- Fuel Used: 88L
- Fuel Price per L: $1.8 – $2.2
- Total Fuel Cost: $170-$200 for 1100 km with 8L/100km consumption
Accommodation
- Airbnb/Hostel per Night: $60
Activities/Food
- Budget for Activities: Determine based on your preferences but count at least 1500$ to enjoy the coast.
- Food Options: Restaurants, free food in hostels, or canned food and BBQ in your campervan!
Best season to travel the East Coast
The best time to travel between Sydney and Brisbane depends on your climate and weather preferences.
The Sydney to Brisbane east coast road trip can be done all year round, however, to ensure the most enjoyable and comfortable experience, we recommend setting off during the months of October, November, February and March. During October, you will enjoy mild temperatures without the crowds of summer. Although summer is hot, it is a popular time to travel. From February, the Australian school holidays are over but sunny days are still around for you to enjoy.
Stage 1: Sydney to Port Stephens
📍 Distance: 210km
Sydney
Sydney, with its Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, beaches, museums, architecture, and towering buildings, is a magnificent city. And what awaits you afterward is just as stunning! Pack your backpack, fill up your van with fuel, get out your travel journal, and prepare your itinerary to Brisbane. You will need at least two days in Sydney to enjoy the city.
What to do in Sydney for two days?
If you want to make sure you don’t miss anything while in Sydney, read our dedicated Sydney article!
Palm Beach (Sydney – Palm Beach 1h)
First stop: Palm Beach, or “Palmy” as the locals call it, is located at the tip of a long peninsula, bordered by the sea on one side and the peaceful Pittwater on the other. Its golden beaches and clear waters have inspired wealthy Sydney residents to build holiday homes on its lush hills. From here, you can head to the Ku-ring-gai National Park lighthouse for the sunset.
Ku-Ring-Gai National Park (+1h)
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a protected area north of Sydney. The park has many Aboriginal sites, including ancient red ocher rock paintings and engravings. You can take beautiful walks with viewpoints and take advantage of the picnic areas to have a snack.
Avoca Beach (+1h)
Located about 95km north of Sydney, Avoca Beach is very popular with locals looking for tranquility. With its large golden sandy beach and its small restaurants, you can make a very pleasant stop there if you have a little time (30min detour from the Highway).
Warning: Make sure to swim between the red and yellow flags, as these areas are designated by lifeguards as the safest. Check SharkSmart to understand potential risks in the area where you swim.
The Entrance (+30 min)
This coastal town is located on the Central Coast of NSW. It is also famous by locals who come to enjoy the beautiful beaches and fish. The main points of interest are:
- The Entrance Beach (main beach)
- Stroll along the waterfront on the 600 meter promenade and take in views of the canal, Tasman Sea and Tuggerah Beach.
- Nearby Beach
- Norah Head Lighthouse
Port Stephens (+1h45)
Port Stephens is a heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. Snorkel in the crystal turquoise waters around town or treat yourself to a 2.5 hour dolphin (all year round) or humpback whale (May – November) cruise departing from Nelson Bay. Then after a morning on (or in) the water, prepare yourself for a 2-hour arduous hike to Tomaree Head summit. Pack a well-deserved picnic for when you reach the summit and enjoy it while marveling at the sublime views of the coastline.
If you want more adventure around Port Stephens and you have a 4WD then head down to Worimi Conservation Park to discover the largest coastal sand dunes in the southern hemisphere.
Stage 2: Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour
📍 Distance : 390 km
Myall Lakes National Park
This huge national park offers a variety of landscapes. Hire a canoe to explore the swamps and lakes and do not forget your fishing rod! Seals Rock Beach is ideal for swimming and if you are lucky there will be pods of dolphins splashing around. In the same place is a beautiful old lighthouse, Sugarloaf lighthouse, as well as a natural cave where the waves rush. There is bush camping or coastal camping within the National Park so plan several days to stay and explore.
Hiking enthusiasts will also be delighted. Our favorites :
The rainforest along the Treachery Headland Walking Track (2km) which ends on a huge beach.
The Mungo path (21km) with Aboriginal historic sites!
⏰ PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Hours: Open year round (may close depending on weather conditions)
Price: $8 per car
Accessibility: 3 entrances (Bombah Broadwater, Myall River or Sugarloaf Point).
Port Macquarie
Explore the main beach of Port Macquarie and embark on the stunning Coastal Walk. This scenic route will lead you to the ‘Town Beach Lookout’, offering breathtaking views of the impressive breakwall, especially spectacular at sunset. Take your time to admire the warm colors of the sky reflecting on the ocean for an unforgettable experience.
Visit the Koala Hospital for a unique opportunity to learn more about the conservation of these iconic marsupials and contribute to this noble cause.
Run by volunteers, the center’s mission is to rescue koalas in need of care from New South Wales. Some have been hit by cars, others attacked by wild animals, and some babies are orphaned. Most are treated and then reintroduced into the wild, while those with more fragile health become permanent residents of the center.
Every Wednesday, volunteers offer guided tours during which these little animals are fed. Listen to their stories and watch them come alive, eat, and sometimes climb!
⏰ PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Opening hours: Open all year round from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm (except December 25)
Price: Free admission (donation appreciated).
Dorrigo National Park
If the city of Coffs Harbour is not adventurous enough for you then take a drive along Waterfall Way and visit Dorrigo National Park. The road speaks for itself, there are waterfalls everywhere!!
We recommended the 1-2-hour return hike to Crystal Shower Falls. Beginning at the information centre you will walk through lush rainforest and over a suspension bridge before reaching the falls. It is one of the best waterfall hikes in the area because you can walk behind and see what life is like on the other side of the waterfall. Another great short walk, also beginning from the information centre, is the Skywalk Lookout. The Skywalk Lookout offers a superb 360-degree view above the rainforest canopy.
⏰ PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Opening hours: Open all year round from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (may close depending on weather conditions)
Price: Free admission (donation appreciated).
Stage 3: Coffs Harbor to Brisbane
📍 Distance : 385 km
Byron Bay
« Cheer up, slow down, chill out » Welcome to the most famous hippie city in Australia! Be careful, you may have trouble bringing yourself to leave! The relaxed and friendly atmosphere, its beautiful beaches and bubbly town center attract surfers and baba cool and have so since the 60s. Although the city does not offer free camping, there is low cost accommodation options so do not hesitate to stay for at least two days to enjoy the Saturday night market, surf and street performers.
From May to November, there is the opportunity to book a boat trip to see the magnificent humpback whales during their migration! Lastly, do not leave town without doing the lighthouse walk. It is best to begin the walk from Wategos Beach however, the walk from Byron town center is also very spectacular. Did you know that the lighthouse is the first place in Australia to see the sun rise?!
Byron Bay, the coolest city in Australia!
Byron Bay, the relaxed little town on Australia’s east coast with a good vibe that’s not to be missed! Where to stay in Byron Bay? And what to do? Here’s all the info…
Mullumbimby
It is well worth the 20-minute detour to visit Byron’s little sister, Mullumbimby. The small town boasts vintage shops, craftsman’s market and a very relaxed atmosphere. It’s said that Mullumbimby looks like Byron Bay 30 years ago, before its authenticity was lost to tourism.
Friday is the best day to visit as it is market day. Stroll through the bustling art community and tantalise your taste buds with the delicious vegetarian food.
The more courageous will face the 5-hour hike to the summit of Mt Warning where there are uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountain ranges and coastlines. If the weather is clear, it is possible to see the buildings of Brisbane’s city. This hike is currently closed since February 2022 for safety reasons. Stay informed on: www.alltrails.com/
Another detour or stop over just outside of Byron Bay is Brunswick Heads, which is also simply breathtaking.
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens
Before leaving Byron Bay, make sure to detour to Crystal Castle and the Shambhala Gardens. Try to arrive at 10 AM to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the park’s exceptional attractions. It all started with a quest for crystals in Latin America and a banker’s belief in this blossoming idea. Their humble beginnings with quartz crystals placed in the garden evolved into the search for statues and giant stones.
As you wander through the gardens, you’ll encounter a 4-meter-high Buddha, then follow the rainforest path to reach the magical spot: the tallest geodes in the world, imported from Uruguay, standing 5 meters tall and containing amethyst, quartz, jasper, and agate. At the heart of the garden lies the “Dragon Egg,” the largest amethyst cave in the world, where you can sit and soak in the magical atmosphere. Finally, discover the latest treasures in the garden: the giant treasure chest, amethyst butterfly wings, and the gigantic rose quartz stone.
Gold Coast
You’ve arrived in Queensland. Just 95 km to Brisbane! The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. Large skyscrapers, shopping centres and a host of water sports activities are all clustered here.
For thrill-seekers, book your tickets for the Dreamworld and Wet’n’Wild Water World theme parks.
If you prefer to take your time on the beach, head to Surfer’s Paradise to admire the prowess of the surfers.
Brisbane
As you leave the Gold Coast along the intense freeway you will feel a wave of emotion kick in……the road trip is coming to an end. What better way to end it though then finishing in the sunny state’s capital city, Brisbane? Brisbane has many places to discover.
Our favorites:
- Southbank District: Dive into a lagoon in the heart of the city. Though artificial, this body of water adds undeniable charm to your visit. Relax on the sun loungers with your feet in the sand. Then, take the Grand Arbour path under blooming bougainvillea (May to November).
- City Botanic Garden: 18 hectares of flowers and greenery guide your walk along the river, in the city’s green lung.
- CityHopper: Take this free ferry to see Brisbane from all angles and pass under the famous Story Bridge.
- Fortitude Valley: Explore by walking along the “New Farm Riverwalk,” where a variety of bars and restaurants await. Felons Barrel Hall offers burgers and beers in a relaxed pub atmosphere, while Mr. Percival’s presents a more elegant setting with a selection of refined cocktails.
Download our free guide for your road trip on the East Coast
Download the complete Guide for a Road Trip on the East Coast
Our FREE 52-page guide brings together all the info you need for your East Coast Road Trip in Australia:
- Preparations (seasons, budget)
- All the best spots to visit on the coast
- The best tours & activities
- Spots to park and sleep in a campervan
