campervan trip from sydney to gold coast

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Sydney to Gold Coast Drive 

1000 km plus side trips | 16 days.

You could easily expand the Sydney to Gold Coast journey to 3 weeks and still not find enough time to do everything. To help you, we’ve put together a list of the highlights from which you can cobble together a tailor-made list that suits your interests, be it walking in nature, surfing, kayaking, rock climbing, eating, or having fun with the kids. 

The Pacific Coast Sydney to Gold Coast drive is one of white sand beaches, sapphire seas, a myriad of lakes, subtropical rainforest and prolific wildlife and bird life. Much of it has been protected within National Parks. The further north you go, the more tropical and laid-back it becomes.

NSW Multi Park Pass

If you plan on spending six or more days in NSW National Parks on your journey, it makes financial sense to buy a multi-park pass for around $65, which is valid for a year. Otherwise it is $12 per vehicle per day. If you follow the below itinerary, you’ll be visiting 11 National Parks in NSW.

Free Camping There are six free campervan-friendly campgrounds in the Blue Mountains.

Sydney to Gold Coast Drive Itinerary

• Day 1-3 –  Blue Mountains & Wollemi or the coastal route
• Day 4 – Hunter Valley
• Day 5 – Newcastle
• Day 6 –  Port Stephens
• Day 7 –  Myall Lakes
• Day 8 – Port Macquarie  
• Day 9 – Hat Head | South West Rocks | Nambucca Heads
• Day 10 – Bellingen | Dorrigo National Park | Urunga  
• Day 11 – Coffs Harbour  
• Day 12 – Yuraygir | Grafton | Yamba/Angourie | Ballina
• Day 13 – Byron Bay
• Day 14 – Nightcap | Minyon Falls | Nimbin  | Mt Warning
• Day 15 – Tweed Heads | Coolangatta
• Day 16 – Gold Coast
• Paradise Shower & Toilet
• Paradise Family 5 Hightop
• Juliette 5 Hightop
• Juliette 3 HighTop
• Family 5 Hightop
• Jade 3 Hightop

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8-Day Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary — First-Timers’ Camper Van Guide for S$1.6k

This Gold Coast road trip itinerary is the ideal guide to living your best camper van life for first timers. Don’t worry, we’re koalified .

Photo credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Get your playlist ready because we’re going on a road trip. From iconic beaches in Surfers Paradise to intimate animal encounters, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to start. I’ve always dreamed of going on a camper van road trip. The joy of waking up to sun rays peeking through the window, with front-row seats to the best that nature has to offer. It’s more than just a means of transportation — it’s your mobile home, your window to the world, and your passport to the unmatched beauty of Queensland .

We spent eight days driving across the city and rolling hills of the Gold Coast and hinterland, exploring and living out our dream. While I’m a seasoned road tripper, camper vanning felt a little scary at first. After all, there’s a lot more to consider, from finding campsites to ensuring you have enough power and water supply, to the different add-ons for your camper van.

So here’s our Gold Coast road trip itinerary, with a summary of costs (at the end), tips, and FAQ on how you can do it too. We hope that you’ll get to experience the adventure of camper vanning yourself!

Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Overview

This first-timers’ camper van itinerary focuses on shorter drives not longer than an hour and showcases a taste of everything the Gold Coast has to offer — think adorable wildlife, long sandy beaches, natural landscapes, and theme parks.

Click to jump to each section

Day 1: Coolangatta and Whale Watching Day 2: Currumbin Wildlife and Adventure Day 3: Alpacas and Tamborine National Park Day 4-5: Theme Parks Day 6: Surfers Paradise Day 7: Burleigh and Tallebudgera Creek Day 8: Flight Home Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Budget Breakdown Camper Van Road Trip FAQ & Tips Gold Coast Travel Essentials

Day 1: Coolangatta and Whale Watching

First up, collecting our camper van at Elanora. We booked our gorgeous CUB camper van with Rolling Playgrounds . The artwork was a consistent conversation starter with others and was such a vibe.

The owner Dan was friendly and always available to answer any questions we had. Despite the compact size, it had everything we needed — a stove, fridge, sink (that doubles as an outdoor shower in a pinch), solar panels for charging, outdoor table and chairs, comfortable bed for two adults and a child, and plenty of storage space. *Pro-tip: Check out our road trip FAQ and tips on getting your first camper van!

Set aside at least 1 hour for collection though, because an in-depth orientation is required to familiarise yourself with the ins-and-outs of the camper van.

Before heading off, we also swung by Woolworths Coolangatta to stock up on some groceries and snacks.

Whale Watching Safari

Photo credit: Cooly Eco Adventures

Whale watching in the Gold Coast is nature’s theatre at its best. Between May and November, 30,000 humpback whales migrate from Antarctica — breaching in glittering waters, with playful dolphins occasionally surfing in their wake.

We joined a safari tour with Cooly Eco Adventures , which used an awesome open vessel that felt like a roller coaster as we zipped across the ocean. A fellow passenger beside us was screaming with joy every time the boat sped up. It’s pretty fun but be prepared as you will get a little wet!

The team provided waterproof spray jackets, but we recommend bringing your own layers as it can get colder out on the water.

*Pro-tip: Pack some light snacks if you’d like to munch on something onboard as tea/coffee are only served before the tour.

If you’re after something more intimate, they also offer opportunities to swim with the humpback whales on a separate tour .

Cost:  AU$119  (~S$107) for a 2.5hr whale watching safari  Tour timings:  7AM, 10:30AM, 2PM (arrive 30mins prior to departure) Meeting point:  12min drive from Coolangatta Beach. Look out for a white trailer at the side of the road ( Google Maps )

Coolangatta Beach and Point Danger Sunset

Photo credit: Expedia

After the tour, head to Coolangatta Beach to wind down and chill. It’s known for its silky white sand and blue waters so you can even take a dip too! Swing over to the nearby headland at Point Danger to catch the sunset for the perfect end to the first day.

Campsite – Kirra Beach Tourist Park (Day 1-2)

As our camper van doesn’t have its own toilet, we generally parked at tourist parks that have access to common bathrooms with warm showers every night. Kirra Beach Tourist Park was a no-frills campsite. Their powered van sites (including a powerpoint to charge your battery) are very spacious so we could easily set up our van and do our own cooking.

Cost: From AU$100/2 nights  (~S$90) for a powered van site. Minimum two nights stay. How to get there: 3min drive from Coolangatta Beach ( Google Maps )

Day 2: Currumbin Wildlife and Adventure

Currumbin lorikeet feeding.

We started the day meeting Australia’s most colourful (and adorable) bird species outside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary . The native wild lorikeets displayed their loving disregard for personal space by chilling on our heads and arms during feeding, which happens twice a day!

The best part is that the entire lorikeet feeding experience is free! You won’t need an entry ticket if you don’t have time to explore the sanctuary.

As the lorikeets are wild, they can get spooked and fly off if there are predators nearby. So we suggest catching the morning feeding session as it’s less crowded, plus you have a second chance of seeing the cute birds again if you missed them in the earlier session.

*Pro-tip: Wear a hat or long sleeves to avoid being scratched by the birds!

Cost: Free, with a voluntary donation for a plate of lorikeet feed Tour timings:  8AM, 4PM Meeting point: Outside the ticketing booth of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. 7min drive from Kirra Beach Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Now on to the main event, exploring Australia’s unique biodiversity at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary ! Home to rescued native mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians, each visit contributes towards some vital breeding and conservation programmes in the region.

The koalas were a highlight for us — I love how adorable and peaceful they look when asleep! The sanctuary treats over 500 sick or injured koalas every year, so any additional contribution helps to support their efforts. You can cuddle and take a photo with one for AU$39 or feed the red kangaroos by grabbing some feed from the kiosk.

Entrance fee: ~AU$60 (~S$54) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM

Lunch at Tommy’s Italian

For lunch, we drove to the highly-rated Tommy’s Italian , which is set against the beautiful backdrop of Currumbin Beach!

The restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine combined with Australia’s freshest ingredients. The prawn fettuccine, pappardelle lamb ragu, and grilled calamari had complex flavours that blended well while still bringing out the freshness of every single ingredient.

*Note: Make reservations in advance as the place can get pretty packed.

Cost: From AU$28 for mains (~S$25.20) Opening hours:  11:30AM – 9PM, closed on Mon and Tue How to get there: 3min drive from Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary ( Google Maps )

TreeTop Challenge

After filling our tummies, we headed back inside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to try the TreeTop Challenge, which is a nice change of pace from the rest of the park!

I felt like a ninja warrior as we ziplined over crocodiles and kangaroos across the seven high rope courses. The courses range from family-friendly easy to physically demanding black diamond ones so there’s definitely something for everyone.

The entire park took us approximately 2.5 hours to complete and is a nice warm-up before moving on to more adventurous activities like Gold Coast’s renowned theme parks!

*Pro-tip: If you plan to do both the TreeTop Challenge and visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, opt for the TreeTop Challenge Experience Pass (AU$90, ~S$81) for an AU$30 discount.

Cost: AU$60 (~S$54) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM

Camper Van BBQ for Dinner

Nothing screams “camper van life” more than an evening barbeque with some beer. We gorged on some steak and kebabs for our final night at this campsite before chilling the night away under the stars. We chatted with neighbours, exchanged stories, and basically lived our best life.

If you have a little more budget, it’s always a good idea to buy a bit more food to share!

Day 3: Alpacas and Tamborine National Park

Mountview alpaca farm.

After an hour’s drive through the breathtaking hinterland of Gold Coast, we ended up at Mountview Alpaca Farm . With over 80 alpacas (yes 80) on the farm, it’s easy to lose track of time staring at their silly faces and antics!

We booked a 30-Minute Alpaca Experience , which allowed us to roam the farm with our own alpaca for some one-on-one time. Pat them, feed them, take photos, it’s all up to you.

Pick your alpaca carefully though. Our alpaca ‘Loki’ fooled us with his looks and was such a handful to guide around compared to the rest. Well, at least we didn’t get spat on!

This is ‘Loki’, our goofy alpaca .

There’s also a restaurant on the premises where you can order everything from pizza to wine and cheese.

*Pro-tip: Save some alpaca feed in order to lead your alpaca back to the pen!

Entrance fee: Free Cost for Alpaca Experience: AU$24.50 (~S$22), min 2 pax Opening hours:  9:30AM – 3:30PM (Mon – Fri), 9AM – 4PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 1hr drive from Kirra Beach Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Lunch at Hang Glider Launch and Lookout Point

Photo credit: Dave MC via Google Photos

As recommended by a friend, we dropped by this lookout point to have a picnic before heading for our hikes.

I loved how windy it was and the view of the valley below — no wonder it’s used by hang gliders as a launch site! It’s also really relaxing to people-watch and see the gliders take off one after the other. Bonus points for having proper parking and toilets too!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  6AM – 9PM How to get there: 23min drive from Mountview Alpaca Farm ( Google Maps )

Hiking at Tamborine National Park

Home to ancient trees and sparkling waterfalls, we couldn’t miss out on exploring this natural beauty. Tamborine National Park has a collection of scenic treks, but if you’re short on time, here are three easy walks that we recommend. If you’re fast, you can easily do all three!

Curtis Falls & Lower Creek Circuit (2.7km, 45mins) This popular short trek through enchanting ancient trees leads you to the beautiful Curtis Falls. Great way to explore the area briefly.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24hrs Starting point : Public Carpark just off Dapsang Drive ( Google Maps )

Witches Chase Trek to Witches Falls Circuit (6km, 1hr 43 mins) A combination of two treks that takes you through one of the best bush walks in the national park. Traverse lush rainforests to scenic lookout points over Witches Falls.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24hrs Starting point : Public Carpark along Main Western Road ( Google Maps )

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk (1.5km, 45mins) Go on an eco-adventure from forest floor trails to bridges 30m above the rainforest canopy and creek.

Entrance fee : AU$19.50 (~S$17.50) Opening hours:  9:30AM – 5PM How to get there : 11min drive from Hang Glider Lookout Point ( Google Maps )

Witches Falls Winery 

After hiking, we sat back and relaxed at the nearby Witches Falls Winery . What’s cool is that they use wild yeasts (instead of standardised commercial ones) for the fermentation process in many of their wines, resulting in ‘wines with character’!

We tried the wine-tasting menu, which included six different wines over 60 minutes. Of course we loved the wild ferment series, in particular the distinctive flavours of the Wild Ferment Nero d’Avola (red wine).

For the drivers, don’t worry as there is a non-alcoholic wine tasting menu too. Buy some wine back for the evening instead 😛

Cost: Tasting set at AU$15 (~S$13.50) Opening hours:  9:30AM – 3:30PM (Mon – Fri), 9AM – 4PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 10min drive from Tamborine National Park area ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park (Day 3-4)

Photo credit: Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Since the iconic theme parks were up next on our Gold Coast road trip itinerary, we based ourselves at the nearby Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park for two days. The place is affordable, with plenty of facilities like a pool, water park, basketball court, and a well-equipped amenities block (we greatly appreciated the spacious shower areas)!

Cost: From AU$71/night  (~S$64) for a powered site How to get there: 30min drive from Witches Falls Winery ( Google Maps )

Day 4-5: Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World

For adrenaline junkies, no visit to the Gold Coast will be complete without visiting the theme parks.

They say that the Gold Coast’s largest theme park is an exhilarating mix of adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, captivating live shows, and interactive wildlife encounters. But to us, it was all about the rides.

From the 39-storeys-high Giant Drop to the latest 1.2km-long Steel Taipan with a G-force of 3.8, there were plenty of rides that kept our adrenaline pumping for the entire day. I loved the Giant Drop so much that I actually took it three times! Please don’t do it back-to-back like me though 🤢 

*Pro-tip: Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Entrance fee: ~S$90 Opening hours:  10:30AM – 4PM (Mon – Fri), 10AM – 5PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 7min drive from Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park ( Google Maps )

Warner Bros. Movie World

But if you only have time for one theme park, Warner Bros. Movie World is the one. Other than sporting themed rides, film characters, and stunt shows from the DC and Warner Brothers universe, the park is constantly evolving with new events and rides. The Flash: Speed Force roller coaster is opening in 2024!

As a DC fan, I felt like a kid again seeing my favourite comic book characters come to life. For the rides, Superman Escape and DC Rivals HyperCoaster literally blew our minds with speeds of over 100km/h.

You don’t have to worry about bad weather too! Even though it was raining when we went, there were still plenty of rides open — with indoor shows, merchandise shops, and Superhero/Villain interactions in the sheltered areas.

*Pro-tip: Download the New Village Roadshow app to queue virtually and check ride timings.

Entrance fee: AU$95 (~S$85.50) or free with the Paradise Country Farmstay and Theme Park package Opening hours:  9:30AM – 5PM How to get there: 7min drive from Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Paradise Country Farmstay (Day 5)

Photo credit: Paradise Country

As shared above, there’s a hack to get free tickets to Warner Bros. Movie World! For day five, book a Farmstay and Theme Park package at Paradise Country. The package allows you unlimited access for two adults and two children to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and Paradise Country during your stay.

The van sites have the usual amenities and also let you take part in simple sunrise farm stay activities (cow milking, cow feeding, collecting fresh eggs and more) at Paradise Country the next morning.

Cost: From AU$135/night  (~S$121.50) for a Farmstay and Theme Park package How to get there: 9min drive from Warner Bros. Movie World ( Google Maps )

Day 6: Surfers Paradise

Surfing at surfers paradise.

With skyscrapers fringing the long golden beaches, Surfers Paradise is the iconic landmark of the Gold Coast. And the best way to take it all in is to catch some waves at one of the most famous beaches in the world.

We took a 2-hour long beginner class with the super professional team at Go Ride A Wave . As you can see in the picture, RJ looked like he was rocking it. If you’re an experienced surfer, you can also rent surfboards and wet suits from them.

Go Ride A Wave Cost: AU$79 (~S$71) Time slots:  10AM, 1PM How to get there: 28min drive from Paradise Country ( Google Maps )

Lunch at Betty’s Burgers & Gelato Messina

Swing by Betty’s Burgers for some classic American grub like beef burgers and milkshakes before topping it off with the best gelato in the region.

Gelato Messina has 40 unique flavours prepared from scratch, and they even own a farm that produces the milk required for their gelatos! Be sure to try the rotating weekly specials — some of their hall of fame flavours include “You Cannoli Live Once” which is made from creme patissiere gelato with pistachio fudge, pistachio praline and cannoli shells.

HOTA, Home of the Arts

Gold Coast’s vibrant cultural heartbeat. HOTA is the hub for all things creative and artistic. It’s a really fun place to spend the afternoon, with plenty of free (or paid) exhibitions and events that showcase a diverse blend of visual and performing arts.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  7:30AM – 9PM How to get there: 9min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Sunset at SkyPoint Observation Deck

We ended the day by catching the sunset from the tallest building on the Gold Coast. Perched atop the Q1 Building, SkyPoint Observation Deck offers a 360° panoramic view 230m above sea level. *Pro-tip: Pick your spot early because it gets really crowded once the sun sets!

For the adventurous, there’s also a SkyPoint climb for an even better view.

Cost: ~S$28 Opening hours:  10AM – 4PM How to get there: 8min drive from HOTA ( Google Maps )

Dinner at Miami Marketta

Housed at a refurbished mechanics warehouse, Miami Marketta was a nice change of environment from restaurants, cafes, and cooking out of our own camper van!

Open three times a week, this vibrant night market is an eclectic mix of global street food, live bands, and good vibes. I recommend trying cuisines from all over the world — we had Korean fried chicken, Spanish paella, and sinfully rich burgers.

Cost: From AU$14 for mains (~S$12.60) Opening hours:  5PM – 10PM How to get there: 17min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park (Day 6-7)

For our final two nights, we based ourselves at a tourist park just off the serene Tallebudgera Creek — our next destination!

Cost: From AU$120/2 nights  (~S$108) for a grass-powered van site. Minimum two nights stay. How to get there: 27min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Day 7: Burleigh and Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera creek and burleigh heads walk.

After a couple of action-packed days, we decided to slow down with an easy nature walk from David Fleay Wildlife Park to Burleigh Heads National Park . We took a short Uber ride instead of driving from our campsite so we didn’t have to backtrack to collect our vehicle.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Start at David Fleay Wildlife Park and walk along Tallebudgera Creek. There is plenty of wildlife like birds, and if you’re patient like us, you can even spot hundreds of crabs walking past you during low tide.

After the hike, we stopped by Burleigh Beach Kiosk for some basic fish and chips while watching surfers catch waves at Burleigh Hill.

There’s also a yummy gelato place nearby at Burleigh Gelato Co (you won’t regret trying the biscoff flavour), with plenty of international restaurants in the same area.

Day 8: Flight Home

Pasture & co..

Before returning the camper van, we made a final stop at Pasture & Co. for breakfast. The organic Leaf & Berry Coffee has a unique flavour profile, and I absolutely loved the Tempura Cauliflower with aioli that had the perfect amount of spice.

Pasture & Co. is located inside Ground at Currumbin , which is an Eco Village with an organic grocer and a bathhouse where you can relax in mineral-enriched pools, saunas and spa baths.

Cost: From AU$14 for mains (~S$12.60) Opening hours:  7AM – 3PM How to get there: 17min drive from Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Budget Breakdown

Transport (excl. flights) :  S$654.88 Accommodation (campsites):  S$223.65 Activities:  S$424 Misc (incl. food & SIM cards):  S$358.31 Total: ~S$1,660.83 for 1 pax

Click here for the detailed breakdown . Flights are excluded as prices fluctuate depending on the season.

Camper Van Road Trip FAQ & Tips

1) what camper van should i get.

For first-timers, I recommend a compact camper van that fits two adults comfortably. It’s about the size of a big SUV, and more or less allows you to drive anywhere. That way you can reach remote or less-accessible places compared to a bigger camper van.

If you are taller or bigger built, Rolling Playgrounds has a larger camper van that is taller and includes a standing shower. The height limit prevents you from getting into some car parks, but the overall size is still manageable.

For larger groups, you can consider a Caravan or Motorhome that can typically sleep up to six people. However, if you’re new to this, I still recommend renting separate smaller vehicles for safety.

2) Can I camp anywhere? And where can I park my camper van ?

The official answer is no, you cannot camp anywhere. But there are many easily accessible places to camp at! Rest Areas: There are over 450 rest areas throughout Queensland — these are free places where you can park and rest for up to 20 hours. While you can sleep overnight inside your camper van, you cannot set up furniture or tents outside. Campsites: There are both free and paid options. Paid options typically come with power supply, water, and access to shared bathing facilities and kitchens. More premium campsites can have ensuite bathrooms for a little more privacy.

With regard to parking, our compact camper van allowed us to park anywhere. If you opted for a bigger vehicle, just make sure it fits within the parking lot.

3) Is it easy to cook?

Yes and it was really fun! Our CUB camper van had all the essentials (basic condiments, cutlery, cooking utensils), so the only thing to think about was what to cook.

There are plenty of affordable supermarkets around (thank you Woolworths) and honestly, Australia’s fresh produce is the best. Plus, kicking back after a day of exploring with BBQ and a beer in hand gave us a big sense of fulfilment compared to just eating out!

4) Is driving a camper van safe?

The Gold Coast is generally really safe, but please don’t leave your valuables within sight if you leave the vehicle. We made sure to always draw the curtains and triple-checked that doors were locked even though the camper van had an auto-lock function.

When going on a camper van road trip, be realistic with your own driving abilities. While there are more options for manual transmission vehicles, please opt for automatic transmission if you’re not comfortable driving overseas as it can get stressful driving a bigger vehicle. And please stay below the recommended speed limits. Go slower if you have to because safety is sexy 😉

5) Do you need any special licences or permits?

Not at all. A Singapore Class 3 driving licence (or equivalent) is sufficient. Singapore Driving License holders also do not need an International Driving Permit. This is mainly required for driving licences that are not in English.

Travel Essentials for Your Gold Coast Trip

Travel documents:  Visitors to Australia must apply for an  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601)* via the  Australia ETA app for AU$20. The approval took a couple of hours for us, but it’s probably best to do this upon confirming your flight details.

*Note: This applies to  ETA-eligible passport holders , including Singapore.

Connectivity:  We bought a 40GB SIM card from Optus (~S$28) with delivery to Singapore. If you didn’t plan ahead, there are kiosks at Gold Coast Airport selling Telsim SIM cards for 28 days at AU$40 for 10GB.

Insurance:  TravelCare from ~S$40.8/pax  for eight days

Transport: If you plan to spend more time on the Gold Coast without a car, the GoExplore card is a great way to get around. For AU$10 a day, you get unlimited rides on buses and trams. This can be bought at most kiosks around the city and the airport.

Camper Van Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary for First-Timers

So there you have it, the ultimate Gold Coast road trip itinerary from the comfort of your camper van. Australia may seem expensive, but it’s possible to still manage your budget while experiencing the key highlights. After all, we managed to go surfing, see the koalas, and experience the van life for just under S$1.7k!

If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a camper van road trip, give this first-timers” Gold Coast road trip itinerary a go. After this experience, I’m hooked and will now be searching for the next longer, bigger, and more rugged camper van adventure.

Did we miss out on any things to do in our Gold Coast Road Trip itinerary? Share with us your camper van road trip tips in the comments below!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Campervan Hire from Sydney to Gold Coast: A Road Trip Adventure [With Tips, Stats, and Must-See Destinations]

Short answer: Campervan hire from Sydney to Gold Coast offers a unique way to explore Australia’s east coast. Various rental companies offer camper vans of different sizes and specifications for the journey, including basic models and luxury options. The distance between Sydney and Gold Coast is around 870km, which takes approximately 10 hours to complete, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan Your Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast Adventure

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip adventure along the stunning coastline of Australia? If so, then buckle up and get prepared to embark on a campervan hire journey from Sydney to Gold Coast – one of the most scenic and famous routes in the country. Planning such an adventure can seem overwhelming, but fear not! We’ve got you covered with our step-by-step guide to creating your perfect itinerary.

Step 1: Choose your Campervan

The initial step is to determine which size of campervan best suits your needs. Will it be just two people or a group? There are several options, but no matter how large or small your party may be, ensure that you choose a campervan with ample space for everyone’s comfort. Be sure to take into account room for storing personal essentials including kitchen utensils, food supplies, bedding, towels etc.

Step 2: Research & Map out Route

Once you’ve gathered all of your campervan specifications and assessed the necessities required for your travelling crew, begin researching some must-see attractions along the way. This route takes you through some breathtaking coastal cities such as Port Stephens and Byron Bay with Hoopla tipping Broken Head Campground in Byron Bay as being especially picturesque. Envision yourself waking up every day in a new location with towering eucalyptus forests at sunrise or moonlit beach barbecues beneath expansive starry skies?

Step 3: Create Your Itinerary

Using a map app like Google Maps plan out an itinerary consisting of campsites and other sites nearby that interest you most. Divide each stop according to time spent between locations based on estimated hours driving times located on Google maps. By doing this we recommend isolating certain definite points throughout the trip that are important whilst allowing flexibility regarding minor stops or extensions along the way.

Step 4: Determine Costs

While exciting this can add up pretty quickly however giving consideration ahead of time regarding the costs associated with the trip will help you budget efficiently. Begin researching campsites, attractions and food options in advance to see if it is possible that discounted packages or bundles could be available. Consider whether fuel expenses will remain affordable – never underestimate petrol’s price increase on long trips!

Step 5: Capture your Memories

It is important to bring an exceptional camera for taking photos along the way! The stunning coastline provides jaw-dropping sunsets that are perfect opportunities for photographs. Alternatively, drones serve as another selection of intriguing perspectives from bird eye views of landscapes/trailblazing surfers catching waves.

In conclusion, planning a campervan hire adventure from Sydney to Gold Coast requires patience but when organised deliberately and with enthusiasm can provide everlasting memories! Try following this guide and gather together all of your adventurous mates for an incredibly unforgettable road trip like no other – remember there’s no limit to Australian coastal camping experiences ready to be explored!

FAQs Answered: Everything You Need to Know About Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast

If you’re considering a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast, then the best way to explore the beautiful scenery is by hiring a campervan. Not only it provides flexibility and freedom, but it also offers an affordable way to travel with family or friends.

However, before jumping into the rental process, here are some frequently asked questions about Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast that will help you make informed decisions:

1. What do I need to know before renting a campervan ?

Before renting a campervan , you need to consider few things like:

• The duration of your trip • The number of people travelling with you • Your budget and preference for vehicle type (size, age) • Your driving license requirements • Insurance coverage options

2. How much does it cost to hire a campervan from Sydney to Gold Coast?

The rental costs for Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast vary depending on several factors such as time of year, vehicle type, length of rental period and number of people traveling.

On average, the daily prices can range between $60-$250 AUD per day depending on above-mentioned factors.

3. Can I drive a rented camper van in Australia with my foreign driver’s license?

Yes! You can legally drive in Australia with your foreign driver’s license for up to three months. However,it is always better if you have an International Driving Permit(IDP) alongside your original driver’s licence.

4. Do I need special insurance for my road trip in a hired camper van?

It is extremely important that any rental vehicle has adequate insurance coverage as accidents can happen anytime during long distance trips.

Make sure that your Travel Insurance policy covers road-trip travels including all passengers and vehicles involved.Insurance coverages offered by most car rentals include CDW/TP coverage or Excess reduction which helps reduce any financial liability in case of damage.

5. What should I bring on the road trip?

A good preparation can make or break any road trip , so it’s essential to pack everything you need.

Here’s a basic checklist of things to pack:

•First Aid Kit •Chargers and other electronics •Maps, Guides and GPS (or Phone with GPS) •Toiletries, towels and linens (if not included in camper rental) •Cooking utensils (e.g., pots, pans, kitchen knives) •Food supplies & Water Bottles (Refillable ones preferred)

6. Are there any recommended campervan routes while travelling from Sydney to Gold Coast?

Yes! There are several beautiful and scenic routes that are recommended when driving from Sydney to Gold Coast.

Some popular choices include Coastal Drive via the Pacific Highway,Mid North Coast,Hunter Valley Vineyards Route,New England Tablelands Road Trip for a more inland experience.

7. How long does the drive take from Sydney to Gold Coast?

The distance between Sydney and Gold coast is around 798 km which usually takes about 10 hours of driving time with plenty of stops along the way.

However,depending on traffic density and your chosen route your travel duration may vary by few hours.

In conclusion,Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast provides an exciting way to travel through coastal roads,stunning beaches,vineyards,enchanting water holes,Quiet National Parks throughout Australia’s east coast.When choosing a van hire company,research well beforehand,take necessary precautions during your journey,and make it an unforgettable vacation rental experience for lifetime!

Top 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast

If you’re planning a trip along the East Coast of Australia, there’s no better way to do it than with a campervan hire Sydney to Gold Coast. Not only does it give you the freedom to see everything on your own time, but it also offers amazing scenic views and outdoor experiences. But before you hit the road, here are five facts you may not have known about campervan hire.

1) Don’t Be Fooled by Cheap Rates

When searching for the perfect campervan rental , be aware that some companies may offer lower rates up front to attract customers. However, these lower prices may come with conditions such as limited mileage or additional fees for extra amenities. Be sure to read all terms and conditions before booking and choose a reputable company with transparent rental policies.

2) Know the Rules of the Road

Before embarking on your adventure, make sure you familiarize yourself with Australia’s road rules. There are strict laws regarding drinking and driving, speeding, seatbelts, and using mobile phones while driving. Additionally, speed limits can vary from state to state so remember to always drive cautiously.

3) Plan for Comfortable Sleeping

The beauty of campervan hire is being able to sleep wherever you park – whether it’s at a designated camping site or free camping area. To ensure comfortable sleeping arrangements bring along appropriate bedding and clothing suitable for varying temperatures.

4) Research Potential Stops in Advance

Australia is jam-packed full of natural wonders such as stunning beaches, national parks, nature reserves and more! Research where you would like to visit beforehand so that you don’t miss out on incredible sights along your route.

5) Regular Maintenance Checks are Important

Lastly but most importantly regular maintenance checks on your vehicle play an important role in ensuring smooth sailing during your trip ! It is recommended that renters communicate clearly any issues experienced during their rental process with their chosen rental company in order avoid costly repairs further down the line and stop any problems from escalating in other parts of the vehicle.

In summary, campervan hire is an amazing and cost-effective way to experience Australia. Always weigh up your options, make sure you’re equipped with knowledge about road laws and narrow down potential stops beforehand to make the most of your trip!

Sights and Stops Along the Way: Must-See Destinations on your Campervan Hire from Sydney to Gold Coast

Embarking on a campervan road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast promises endless hours of scenic driving, exciting pit stops, and the opportunity to soak up Australia’s stunning natural beauty. The 830 km journey will take you through some of the continent’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, offering travelers a diverse range of experiences that’ll have you basking in nature’s glory.

As you hit the Pacific Highway from Sydney, be sure to make a stop at the Central Coast beach town of The Entrance. Here, visitors can stroll along the boardwalk while indulging in some fish and chips or paddling in Tuggerah Lake’s calm waters. Don’t forget to check out the daily pelican feeding that takes place at noon each day!

Continuing north and just over an hour’s drive from The Entrance, lies the gorgeous Myall Lakes National Park. Boasting crystal clear waterways and pristine beaches surrounded by dense forests, this idyllic spot offers plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing or exploring its various hiking trails.

Another must-see destination on your road trip is Coffs Harbour. This charming coastal city known for its banana farms (don’t miss Big Banana Fun Park), boasts fantastic beaches including Jetty Beach where beach-goers are likely to spot schools of dolphins swimming close by!

For those history buffs among us who love learning about indigenous cultures while soaking up magnificent views we recommend Dorrigo National Park- located west of Coffs Harbour -which offers breathtaking vistas and several walking tracks taking visitors through timeless rainforests and past cascading waterfalls as well as sacred sites illustrating local Aboriginal history.

The next stop along this route is Byron Bay -Australia’s easternmost point – with fresh ocean breezes greeting visitors winding their way towards Super Tubes Water Slides or surfing school spots catering to all skill levels off crystal-clear waves rolling onto soft sandy beaches lining miles northward coastline extending so far out sea horizon seems endless.

The final destination: The Gold Coast awaits with Surfers Paradise’s white sandy beaches and the iconic high-rises lining them. Home to world-class theme parks such as Dreamworld, Movie World and SeaWorld, visitors of all ages will be catered for by this vibrant coastal metropolis with activities to satisfy every type of traveler making this road trip one that you’ll never forget.

In summary, your campervan journey between Sydney and Brisbane offers a colorful tapestry of experiences that marry Australia’s diverse natural landscapes with unique cultural insights. We highly recommend exploring these incredible sights for an unforgettable adventure in this enchanting country.

Budgeting for a Memorable Campervan Hire Experience from Sydney to Gold Coast

Are you planning a road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast? Well, there’s no better way to live it up than hitting the open road in a campervan . It’s an exciting adventure that allows you to experience the beauty of nature, local attractions and stunning beaches on your own terms.

However, before you start packing and hit the road , make sure you have a budget in place for an unforgettable journey.

Here are some tips on how to budget for your ultimate campervan hire experience:

1. Plan ahead Start by mapping out your route and making a list of all destinations and activities you’d like to do along the way. This will help provide clarity on how much money you’ll need for gas, campsites, food, and other expenses.

2. Determine Your Budget Settling on a budget is critical when planning any trip . Do some research online and check out various campervan rental companies that offer different models with varying prices. By comparing costs and features across different models/brands such as Britz or Jucy Rentals would help make an informed decision.

3. Fuel Expenses Fuel expense can be costly if not managed efficiently during long hauls; accounting for fuel usage in daily travel (e.g., kilometres travelled & fuel economy) can allow optimal use of funds towards other necessities or possibly upgrade to latest campervans .

4. Accommodation Costs A majority of Australian top destinations have camping sites offering free parking facilities with upgrading amenities allowing access to showers/toilets/bbqs depending on location.Comparing fees at locations such as Discovery Parks,park-homes/caravans/pods; hence Camping/Holiday parks would permit plenty of options at different price points corresponding requirements/convenience level

5. Food Costs Quality nutritious meal options can easily eat away at budgets especially when travelling around city centres; this often builds up over weeks into a considerable expense itemizing meals/snacks in a balance for bulk-packaged meals; organic and locally sourced produce available at farmers market to maximize health benefits while supporting local businesses

6. Other Expenses Activities like surfing classes, Skydiving, Theme-parks tours and whale watching are key highlights during the road trip.a carefully allocated travel budget can allow for some unique yet fun fun experiences to cherish.

7. Emergencies& Travel insurance A wise approach would be expecting uncertainties such as breakdowns during the itinerary hence having an emergency fund as well securing your trip with a trusted insurance company is critical.An effective emergency fund would be one that covers campervan repair/replacement costs, medical expenses and unexpected tour cancellations among others.

In conclusion, renting a Campervan to explore the stretch between Sydney to Gold Coast offers some fantastic sights and encompasses incredible experiences. Budgeting will help make this experience unforgettable within wallet constraints or without breaking it! Be smart,and enjoy every step of a thrilling journey!

Preparing for Your Journey: Essential Tips and Tricks for Campervan Hire from Sydney to Gold Coast.

Have you ever experienced the thrill of hitting the open road and exploring new places from the comfort of your own campervan? If so, you know that it is one of the most enjoyable ways to travel. Campervan hire from Sydney to Gold Coast allows you to experience all that this beautiful stretch of Australian coastline has to offer.

But before you embark on your journey, there are some essential tips and tricks you need to keep in mind. Here’s what we suggest:

1. Plan Your Route

One of the best things about campervanning is that it gives you the freedom to go wherever your heart desires. However, it’s always a good idea to plan a rough route beforehand so you can make sure you don’t miss out on any must-see destinations along the way.

The drive from Sydney to Gold Coast is filled with scenic coastal routes, national parks, and off-the-beaten-track stops where locals hang out. Look online for suggested routes or do some research online and create your itinerary.

2. Know Your Vehicle

Before setting off on your adventure, make sure you spend some time becoming familiar with your campervan. Check where everything is located (including emergency equipment like jump starters), how all appliances work, review maintenance procedures and learn how everything works – including lighting fires if using them.

Also ensure every packable item such as clothing , bed sheets,kitchen utensils among others are clearly organized for easy retrieval during use.

3. Consider Weather Conditions

As any seasoned traveler will tell you, weather conditions can make or break a trip – especially when camping! Before setting off on your journey, be sure to check local weather patterns and pack accordingly for fluctuating conditions like rain showers or sun scorching hot temperatures . Make adjustments or reorganize when necessary but always have alternatives in case outdoor activities are planned .

4. Book Campgrounds Ahead of Time

When traveling by campervan along the Australian coastline, it is always a good idea to book your campground spots ahead of time.Due to the popularity of this route throughout most seasons , campsites can get crowded. Book early or have a way to find alternatives.

5. Pack Light But Smart

Packing for a campervan trip can be a challenge since space is limited. Emphasise on packing less while ensuring every essential is included. Think multi-functional items like quality footwear that works for both trekking and beach going, a portable stove that can make different meals without taking up too much space.

6. Plan Activities

While there’s certainly enough excitement in driving and stopping for different adventures at each stop off, plan some activities beforehand such as kayaking along bays or surfing lessons in established popular local beaches (eg: Byron Bay) . Ensure proper gear (either rented or personal ) is packed beforehand.

Preparing for campervan journeys requires an open mind ready for new experiences! Let these essential tips and tricks guide you in making lasting memories traversing Sydney to Gold Coast both safely and comfortably with your travelling home-on-wheels – the campervan !

Table with useful data:

Information from an expert.

As an expert in campervan hire, I highly recommend taking a road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast. With a Campervan, you can have a flexible and comfortable means of transport throughout your journey. This route consists of scenic coastal roads, charming seaside towns with numerous recreational activities such as surfing, fishing, and hiking. By hiring a campervan for your trip , you’ll have the liberty to explore at your leisure and enjoy nature and all of its beauty along the way.

Historical fact:

In the early 20th century, travelers seeking to tour coastal regions of Australia would often rent motorhomes or campervans for their journey, predating the modern trend of campervan hire from Sydney to Gold Coast.

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Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip: 8 Breathtaking Places to Stop

Looking for the best places to stop on a Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip?

You’ve come to the right place. As a Sydney local and a seasoned traveller to the Gold Coast, I can confidently say that the Sydney to Gold Coast drive is one of the most breathtaking experiences on the East Coast of Australia.

I’ve flown the route, sure, but the drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast ? That’s something extraordinary, if you’re looking for an adventure and a deeper exploration of what New South Wales has to offer, then driving is 100% the way to go.

The appeal of this journey lies in the diversity of experiences a Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip offers. One moment, you’re in the Hunter Valley, savouring some of Australia’s finest wines, soaking up the tranquillity, and thinking, “ Could life get any better ? “

And, just when you think the ride could get any more epic, you’re stepping into the chilled-out vibes of Byron Bay, the surf rolling in as if to a beat of its own, inviting you to slow down and live in the moment.

Next thing you know, there you are, gazing at the Gold Coast’s skyline, where towering skyscrapers meet with the pristine surf beaches.

And while a plane ride would swiftly transport you from Sydney to the Gold Coast, the journey on the ground is where the real magic of the East Coast of Australia lies. The Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip is perfect for families and individuals who want to see the very best of Australia!

So, if it’s the quintessential Aussie adventure you’re after, then grab your sunnies and your favourite road trip snacks, and hop in, because I have gathered up the 8 most beautiful stops to add to your Sydney to Gold Coast Itinerary including must-see places to visit, best things to do, my insider tips and where I recommend you stay for a night or two.

Planning tips for a Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

The drive time sydney to gold coast.

🚗 The drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast covers a span of approximately 845 km. If you were to take on the journey non-stop, you’d be looking at around 8 hours and 55 minutes of driving time.  

But let’s be honest, that’s not why you’re here. You’re in for the full Aussie experience, and that involves taking your sweet time and stopping off at some incredible NSW delights along the way.

In terms of routes, you’ve got options. The Pacific Highway, New England Highway, and M1 all serve as pathways to the Gold Coast . But if you’re after those heart-stirring views, memorable attractions, and scenic experiences, the Pacific Highway is your go-to route for this trip , as well as most of our New South Wales Road trip recommendations.

Here’s a snapshot of the different routes and their respective durations for a Sydney to Gold Coast drive:

• Via the New England Highway/A15: A longer alternative, clocking in at around 11 hours and 9 minutes for the 954km journey.
• Via the Pacific Highway/A1 : The preferred option for this journey, with an estimated driving time of 8 hours and 55 minutes across 845km.
• Via M1: The longest route, coming in at around 11 hours and 15 minutes for a 977km trip.

Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip Map

How to rent a car in Australia

Alright, let’s talk wheels. Your epic Sydney to Gold Coast road trip wouldn’t be possible without a reliable set of wheels, right? Now, hiring a car might sound like a drag, but it really doesn’t have to be.

I’ve crisscrossed this beautiful country multiple times, and the car rental company I keep coming back to is RentalCars.com. Honestly, their platform just makes everything super easy. Plus, they’ve got options in just about every price range, so you’re bound to find something that fits your budget.

What’s won me over time and time again, though, is their great customer service. Whether it’s a last-minute change in plans or a question about your booking, they’re always ready to help – and it makes such a difference!

The Best of Sydney: Where to Go and What to See

Here’s the scene: You’re in Sydney, a buzzing city that’s a delightful blend of urban chic and beach town vibes, it’s a cracking place to kick off your gold coast road trip!

It’s a place where architectural marvels lie alongside lush green spaces, and world-renowned wine regions are just a stone’s throw away. Fancy a bite? Sydney’s culinary scene is a celebration of innovation, boasting award-winning restaurants and vibrant bars that demand your attention.

And for those seeking retail therapy Sydney doesn’t disappoint. Stroll through the chic designer boutiques in Paddington, or dive into the eclectic mix of stores in Manly. From local artisanal crafts to international high-end fashion, Sydney’s retail landscape is diverse.

The city is a beautiful canvas showcasing icons like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, which are must-see landmarks that make this city universally recognizable. But there’s more to Sydney than the glitz and glamour of its famous skyline – that’s just postcard stuff. Sydney’s got a more secretive, carefree side that’s equally tempting. Secret beaches in the Eastern Suburbs, anyone?

Some of the best things to do in Sydney include:

Sydney’s Famous Beaches

Sydney is synonymous with world-class beaches, and no visit is complete without dipping your toes in these iconic sands. Starting with the legendary Bondi Beach, where the surf is always up, and the vibe is eternally vibrant.

After soaking up some sun on the golden sands, taking a dip in the Bondi Icebergs is almost a rite of passage. For a small fee, you can immerse yourself in the famous oceanside pool, carved into a cliff and brimming with the freshest seawater.

But for those willing to venture beyond the well-trodden sands of Bondi, Sydney offers more intimate beach experiences. Ever heard of Lady Bay Beach? It’s one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets and one of the few legal nudist beaches in the area . If you’re ready to bare it all and truly embrace the Aussie spirit, this spot, nestled between South Head and Camp Cove, is a must-visit.

And for an escape from the hustle and bustle, the tucked-away Milk Beach in Vaucluse awaits. This hidden gem in the Eastern Suburbs is the perfect spot for a picnic or a lazy afternoon. With the city skyline and Harbour Bridge forming a stunning backdrop, it’s the perfect spot for that envy-inducing Instagram shot, minus the typical crowds.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Sydney experience without mentioning the fantastic surfing opportunities. Sydney beaches are a surfer’s paradise with their consistent waves, but the adventure doesn’t stop there.

If you’re after a different kind of water adventure, Sydney’s sparkling waters also offer numerous kayaking experiences some of which lead you off the beaten path, whisking you away to rarely visited hidden gems such as Goat Island.

Recommended Activity: Kayak to Goat Island

Visiting The Rocks

The Rocks is one of the most beautiful parts of Sydney. This neighbourhood, the city’s eldest, is a labyrinth of slender lanes lined with distinctive architecture, time-honoured sandstone churches, and authentic colonial buildings. As you wander through these picturesque streets, you’ll come across an eclectic mix of quaint souvenir shops and some of the city’s longest-standing pubs.

What’s more, The Rocks is famed for its spirited weekend markets. A stroll here feels like an invitation to discover the craftsmanship of local artisans, with stalls that brim with unique homemade treasures.

As for sightseeing, a visit to Cadman’s Cottage, the oldest surviving residential building in Sydney, is like a quick history lesson – no textbooks required. From there, wander up to Observatory Hill where you’ll score epic views of the Harbour. Bring a picnic and make an afternoon of it.

When hunger hits, Argyle Street’s got your back. It’s lined with restaurants that offer everything from gourmet pizza to Australian classics. And if you’re a beer lover, don’t miss out on The Lord Nelson Brewery , Australia’s oldest pub brewery, where you can sample their home-brewed ales.

The Rocks weaves a tapestry of old and new, a blend of history and contemporary charm that is not to be missed when in Sydney.

Explore Sydney Museums

Sydney is a goldmine for culture enthusiasts, with a host of museums catering to a wide array of interests. If you’re looking to absorb some knowledge without spending a cent, the Art Gallery of NSW and the Museum of Contemporary Art offer free entry to their general exhibits. You’ll find yourself lost in a world of inspiring art pieces ranging from traditional Aboriginal works to avant-garde installations.

Got kids in tow? They’re going to love the Powerhouse Museum. It’s got everything from steam engines to space travel, and plenty of interactive displays to keep the little ones busy. Plus, who can resist a hands-on workshop?

If your squad loves all things historical, then the Australian Museum is where you want to be. It’s not just the fact that it’s Australia’s first museum that makes it special – it’s also the incredible collections. The Indigenous Australians exhibit? A must-see. But the real hit with the kiddos is the dinosaur world upstairs. It’s got everything from interactive exhibits to a dissection of a T-Rex.

And let’s not forget the Museum of Sydney. This gem is built right on top of the house of Australia’s first Governor and tells some seriously cool stories about Sydney’s past. But if the call of the sea is more your thing, the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour will float your boat with its impressive collection of naval vessels and maritime exhibits.

Sydney At Night

Now, about your last night in the city before hitting the road: it’s got to be memorable, right? What better way to say ‘See you later’ to Sydney than a sunset dinner cruise on the Harbour? Picture yourself dining as the city lights dance on the water, with the Opera House, illuminated against the night sky, it really takes your breath away!

Don’t fancy a harbour cruise? No problem, there are plenty more great ways to spend the night in Sydney.

Or maybe you’re more of a low-key night owl? Imagine yourself kicking back in one of Sydney’s trendy hotels, specifically the ones sporting balconies with a front-row seat to Darling Harbour. Unwinding with a glass of vino while the harbour lights twinkle beneath you? That’s the kind of chill vibe you won’t want to miss!

Best Places to Stay in Sydney:

Luxury option: The Langham Sydney

Mid-range option: Ultimate Apartments Bondi Beach

T ake a Detour to the Hunter Valley (pacific Highway Route)

Just a two-hour drive north of Sydney via the M1 and A15, you’ll discover the Hunter Valley – a treasure trove of serenity and indulgence that is unquestionably worth a detour. Its vast, verdant landscape stretches out into the distance, promising tranquillity, and a much-needed retreat from the city bustle.

Famed as one of Australia’s top wine regions, the Hunter Valley doesn’t just pour up some delicious wines it serves up classic Australian cuisine, luxurious accommodation, and exquisite events & festivals throughout the year.

But what if you don’t drink wine? No problem, the Hunter Valley has plenty more to offer . Its natural beauty alone is worth the journey, with picturesque landscapes begging to be explored by bike, on foot, or even from the basket of a hot air balloon.

Considering its offerings, spending 1-2 days in Hunter Valley isn’t just a suggestion, it’s essential.

Below are some of The Best Activities In Hunter Valley:

Indulge in the world-renowned wine tasting.

Now let’s get into the heart of Hunter Valley – the vineyards. Swing by Tulloch Wines, a favourite of mine, to dip your toes into their wine offerings. Their mystery wine tasting really spices up the usual routine – it’s a game of ‘guess the grape’ that’ll make a wine expert out of you yet! And the kids aren’t left out either – they have a non-alcoholic version just for them.

But if you want to take the worry out of navigating, ‘ Two Fat Blokes Cheese and Wine Tour ‘ is a fantastic option. They’ll drive you around to several wineries , serving up delicious cheese along the way.

Explore Hunter Valley Gardens

Ready for a splash of magic amid wine country? That’s where the Hunter Valley Gardens come in. It’s not just about plants and flowers here (though there are plenty of those, and they’re pretty spectacular).

Each garden is like stepping into a different world. The Oriental Garden gives you a sense of calm, while the Rose Garden is a riot of colour. And if you’ve got kids, they’ll love the Storybook Garden. It’s like stepping into their favourite tales, complete with a Kid’s Storybook Trail. In summer, the place gets even more fun with funfair rides popping up. It’s not just a garden, it’s a full-day adventure, an unexpected twist to the usual Hunter Valley experience.

Take a scenic Helicopter Ride

Up for an adrenaline rush with a side of phenomenal views? With a scenic helicopter ride, you’ll soar above vineyards and dreamy rolling hills, enjoying a unique vantage point that only a few get to experience. The incredible aerial views? Totally Instagrammable. Not to mention, it’s a brilliant way to gain a new perspective on the area’s vast beauty and a surefire way to elevate your Hunter Valley adventure.

Peek into Hunter Valley’s Wine Festival Calendar

Famed for its 150+ wineries, Hunter Valley hosts an array of wine festivals throughout the year. The Lovedale Long Lunch wine festival is a top-tier event you just can’t miss! Taking place annually at the end of May, it’s more than a festival.

This unique event sees attendees tour a series of wineries, with each stop offering a different course of a gourmet meal paired with their finest wines. You’ll find yourself in a joyful parade of foodies and wine enthusiasts, moving from one vineyard to another. The festival is an ideal way to experience the Hunter Valley’s gastronomic offerings, all in a sociable and celebratory atmosphere.

Best Places to Stay in Hunter Valley:

Luxury option: Spicers Vineyard Estate

Budget option: Hunter Valley Travellers Rest Motel

Visit Palm Beach

Palm Beach sits about 41 kilometres from Sydney CBD. Located on a peninsula at the end of Barrenjoey Road, it’s roughly a one-hour drive via the Pacific Highway (A1). However, to get to Palm Beach specifically, you’ll have to make a slight detour. Once you reach the area of North Sydney, you will need to exit onto Wakehurst Parkway (Route 22) which will then connect to Pittwater Road (Route 10). This will take you directly to Palm Beach.

Palm Beach is a breath of fresh air compared to the hustle of Bondi, offering you a quieter yet equally stunning seaside experience.

Most famously, Palm Beach has been the backdrop for the popular TV show “Home and Away” since 1988. It’s where the fictional town of Summer Bay comes to life, and fans of the show will instantly recognize landmarks from their favourite scenes.

But beyond its pop culture appeal, Palm Beach is genuinely worth the trip. From the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse to the stunning views from North Bilgola Lookout, there’s so much to see.

Whale Beach and Avalon Beach are dreamy spots to unwind and get those toes sandy. Now, if you’re asking for my top pick, I’d say don’t miss Mona Vale Beach. With a rock pool that looks out over the sparkling Pacific Ocean, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser – and quite the hotspot for those Insta-worthy snaps.

Wrapping up your Palm Beach adventure, be sure to grab a bite at The Boathouse. Tucked beside the picturesque Governor Phillip Park, this eatery has earned itself a prominent place on the Palm Beach map. And it’s not just the locals who are smitten. Thanks to its regular appearances in TV shows and series, The Boathouse has found fame far beyond Palm Beach’s shores.

Plan to spend about 2-3 hours here, just enough time to soak in the sights without rushing.

Explore Newcastle

Finally, it’s time to bid farewell to Sydney and embark north on your road trip adventure to the Gold Coast. The next major stop? Newcastle. The second most populated city in New South Wales, Newcastle marries the laid-back beach vibe with the cultural pulse of a city.

En route, you’ll be passing through the Central Coast, where Terrigal Beach is worth a detour. Fancy a leisurely walk, a quick dip or simply sitting by the shore with a book? Terrigal’s your place. While there, make sure to visit the Skillion, a natural grassy lookout with scenic ocean views.

Next, you’ll reach Newcastle which is around two hours drive from Sydney, this port city offers a different taste of Australia, with a rich industrial history and a growing reputation as an arts and culture hub.

A day or two is a good timeframe to truly appreciate what Newcastle has to offer – it’s big enough to keep you entertained yet compact enough to explore without feeling rushed.

The real allure of Newcastle lies in its fusion of city and sea. Its vibrant cityscape is fringed by a stunning coastline, offering the best of both worlds. Picture this: sipping a flat white in a trendy café in the morning, soaking up some art in a local gallery by noon, then catching a wave at one of the many stunning beaches in the afternoon.

But there’s plenty more to cover in Newcastle, here are some of the best things to do in Newcastle, especially for those who are visiting Newcastle for the first time:

Experience the Blackbutt Nature Reserve

If you’re a nature buff like me, you’ll absolutely adore the Blackbutt Nature Reserve. Home to a variety of wildlife, from kangaroos and koalas to colourful native birds, it’s a haven for animal lovers. Don’t forget to drop by the reptile show or enjoy a picnic amidst the eucalyptus trees.

Explore the Newcastle Memorial Walk

This 450-meter-long walkway is built high on the cliff, offering panoramic views of the coastline and city. It’s also a tribute to the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli, making it a poignant and beautiful place to spend a sunset.

Stroll Along Newcastle Breakwall

Before anything else, you’ve got to take a leisurely amble along the Newcastle Break wall. With the fresh ocean breeze, harbour views, and the distinctive painted rocks lining the pathway, it’s a sight for sore eyes and a brilliant introduction to Newcastle’s charm. And here’s a little secret – it’s also an excellent spot for some dolphin-watching, so keep your eyes peeled!

Recommended activity in Newcastle: Humpback Whale Encounter Tour

Grab Some Fish and Chips to Takeout

Newcastle isn’t just about sights – the tastes are equally memorable. Now, I’ve sampled a fair share of fish and chips in my time, hailing from the UK and all, but let me tell you, Newcastle takes this classic to a whole new level. Take it from a Brit, the fish and chips here are spot on.

Where to Stay in Newcastle:

Luxury option: QT Newcastle

Mid-range option: Noah’s on the Beach

Step into Adventure at Port Stephens

Continuing north to the Gold Coast, Port Stephens, a vibrant, naturally blessed haven that sits about an hour’s drive from Newcastle. Best known for its idyllic sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and impressive population of bottlenose dolphins, Port Stephens is a postcard-perfect pit stop on your Sydney to Gold Coast journey.

If you’re someone who adores outdoor adventures, wildlife, and sun-drenched beaches, then trust me, Port Stephens is going to impress. What makes this place stand out from the crowd is its unique blend of striking coastlines, breathtaking hiking trails, and picture-perfect beaches, all bundled into one unforgettable package.

With so much to see and do in Port Stephens, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to start. Fear not, I’ve got your back.

must-do activities in Port Stephens to make the most out of your visit:

Humpback whale watching.

One of the unforgettable experiences in Port Stephens is undoubtedly spotting the majestic humpback whales on their annual migration . From May to November, the ocean becomes a highway for these awe-inspiring creatures. Hop on a whale-watching cruise, and with a bit of luck, you might see them breaching, tail-slapping, or even spy-hopping. You don’t want to miss this spectacle!

Sandboarding at Stockton Sand Dunes

Fancy a bit of an adrenaline rush? The towering Stockton Sand Dunes are your playground. One of the most exhilarating ways to enjoy them is sandboarding – essentially snowboarding but on the sand. The ride down these 30-meter-high dunes is a thrill you won’t forget . And the views? Simply stunning!

Discover Tomaree National Park

For those who love to immerse themselves in nature, Tomaree National Park is the spot for you. Start with a hike to Tomaree Head Summit. It’s a moderately challenging walk, taking about 2 hours round trip, but the breathtaking panoramic views of PortStephens at the top make every step worthwhile. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a good workout and equally rewarding for casual hikers.

Take Five at Coffs Harbour

On to the next chapter of your epic road trip: Coffs Harbour. Strategically placed halfway between Sydney and the Gold Coast, this city offers a coastal retreat that’s hard to resist. It’s a place where sandy beaches meet an energetic marina, framed by a stunning green backdrop.

You may have heard of the Big Banana, a playful and larger-than-life homage to Australia’s favourite fruit. But believe me, Coffs Harbour offers far more than just Instagram-worthy quirks. Imagine sun-drenched beaches beckoning for a midday siesta, a lively marina scene ideal for evening strolls, and lush natural surroundings begging to be explored.

Coffs Harbour has something for everyone, regardless if you’re an adrenaline enthusiast, a nature lover, or just keen to relax. From heart-thumping activities like skydiving and jet skiing to the peaceful botanical gardens, or even delving into the rich Aboriginal history – Coffs Harbour’s versatility is one of its charms.

The best part? Coffs Harbour doesn’t require you to cram everything into one day. Allocate half a day, pick a couple of highlights and immerse yourself in the relaxed Aussie vibe.

Let me share a couple of must-dos when you’re in Coffs:

The big banana fun park.

 This place might seem kitschy at first, but it’s all about embracing the fun. A quick snapshot with the oversized banana is a must, but there’s more to enjoy. The park features an ice-skating rink, toboggan rides, a water park, laser tag, and even a mini-golf. It’s all about recapturing the childlike joy making it a perfect spot for a laugh, no matter your age.

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve

If you’re up for a walk with the reward of stunning coastal views, Muttonbird Island is your go-to. It’s an easy climb to the top, and the panoramic views of Coffs Harbour and the surrounding landscape are breathtaking. It’s also a significant breeding site for Wedge-tailed Shearwaters or “Muttonbirds”. Time your visit right, and you could see these unique birds nesting. And keep an eye on the sea – you might spot dolphins or even whales.

Coffs Harbour has a certain charm that you’ll find hard to resist. Ideal for a relaxing pitstop on your road trip, it’s a place where the professional in you can take a backseat, and the explorer can take the wheel.

Full Day (or Two!) at Byron Bay

Just about an hour and a half’s drive south of the Gold Coast, your next highlight stopover is Byron Bay. Known as the easternmost point of mainland Australia, this coastal paradise is all about embracing the chill. The place practically hums with a laid-back energy that’s downright contagious. In other words, it’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and relax before the final leg of your road trip.

What makes Byron Bay so appealing, you ask? It’s the unique mix of surf culture, music festivals, eco-conscious living, and fabulous food scenes. It’s got that great beach vibe without losing its artsy, bohemian edge. A place where surfers, families, professionals and creatives alike gather, making it a colourful melting pot of people.

The beauty of Byron Bay is not just its golden beaches and turquoise waters (although they are breathtakingly beautiful). It’s also in the people and the way of life. Everyone’s all about wellness, the environment, and the community. Expect to see organic markets, yoga studios, and sustainable fashion stores around every corner .

If you ask me, I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days here to fully soak up the Byron Bay way of life. Dip your toes in the ocean, browse the local markets, try a yoga class, catch a live music gig, and most importantly, don’t forget to taste the food. Trust me; you’ll understand the Byron Bay hype once you’ve experienced it.

Best things to do in Byron Bay:

Experience cape byron lighthouse.

Venture to the easternmost point of mainland Australia and pay a visit to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. The walk to the lighthouse, which takes around 2 hours to return, is moderate in difficulty but offers spectacular coastal views that make every step worthwhile. And let’s not forget the potential bonus of spotting dolphins or whales along the way! Inside the lighthouse, a maritime museum awaits and the 360-degree views from the top are simply stunning.

Dive into the Byron Bay Markets

The Byron Bay Markets are an immersion into local culture and a feast for all senses. Held on the first Sunday of every month, the markets showcase local artisan crafts, organic and farm-to-table produce, vintage clothing, and even handmade jewellery.

Immerse in Arts and Music

Byron Bay isn’t just about the beach; it’s a vibrant arts and music hub. The town is home to a variety of art galleries, workshops, and boutiques showcasing local talent. On any given night, you can find live music performances in bars, restaurants, or the beachfront park. And let’s not forget the world-renowned festivals like Bluesfest and Splendour in the Grass. If your trip aligns with these events, do give it a go. They are fantastic experiences!

Grab a Board at Main Beach

Byron Bay is the holy grail of Australian surf culture, and there’s no place better than Main Beach to dip your toes (quite literally) into the world of surfing. The beach is an egalitarian paradise, where seasoned pros and first-timers alike share the swells.

Never surfed before? No worries! Byron Bay is brimming with surf schools offering lessons for rookies. You’ll be standing on that board in no time, feeling the exhilarating rush that only surfing can provide. It’s the quintessential Byron experience. And if surfing isn’t your thing, no stress. Main Beach is the ideal spot to unwind, catch some rays, and indulge in some prime people-watching.

Byron Bay Evening Glow-Worm Spectacle

Craving a taste of Byron Bay’s famed hippie vibe? Dive into it by exploring the enchanting hinterland, lit by nature’s fairy lights – the mystical glowworms. Within the heart of the ancient Gondwana Rainforests, these luminescent critters set the scene for an evening drenched in enchantment.

If you are looking for this to do in Byron Bay at night join this unique 5.5-hour experience. This includes a waterfall visit, a vegan forest dinner, and, of course, the dazzling glow-worm display, all soaked in the laid-back, thoughtful ambience that is quintessentially Byron. It is an experience like no other!

Where to Stay in Byron Bay

Luxury option: The Lord Byron

Mid-range option: The Surf House

Gold Coast Highlights

And just like that, you’ve made it to the grand finale of your epic east coast road trip – the glittering, pulsating, utterly irresistible Gold Coast.

This city, just over an hour’s drive from Byron Bay, is the place where Australia loosens its tie, kicks off its shoes and parties in flip-flops. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, beach bum, or foodie, the Gold Coast has something for you.

This is the Miami of Australia, where high-rises kiss the sky, and the sun-soaked beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, life is about relishing the great outdoors.

You’ll find locals and travellers alike embracing the beach culture – surfing, swimming, or just soaking up the golden Aussie sun. The incredible coastal views will have your jaw on the floor, the Pacific Ocean providing a beautiful backdrop that never fails to impress.

But the Gold Coast isn’t just a pretty face – beyond the beaches, there’s a lot to love. We’re talking lush rainforests, dreamy waterfalls, boutique breweries, and bustling markets. Oh, and did I mention it’s the theme park capital of Australia?

Despite its reputation for glitz and glamour, the Gold Coast offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers. It’s a city that’s learned to balance its natural beauty with a healthy dose of fun, and it does it in style.

How long should you stay? Well, I’d say a week here would give you a good taste of what the Gold Coast has to offer. But really, there’s always something happening here, so the longer, the better!

Here are some of the best things to do on the gold coast:

Surf at surfers paradise.

To say that the Gold Coast is a surfer’s paradise isn’t just a turn of phrase – there’s an actual place called Surfers Paradise, and it’s every bit as dreamy as it sounds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, grab your board and hit the iconic waves. Don’t worry if you don’t have the skills yet – there are plenty of surf schools that can get you up and standing on your board in no time.

Get Lost in the Natural Beauty of Springbrook National Park

 Just a short drive from the coast, you’ll find Springbrook National Park – a lush, ancient wonderland that’s part of the Gondwana Rainforests, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can discover stunning waterfalls, walk through rainforests, and soak in panoramic views of the Gold Coast from lookouts like ‘Best of All Lookout’.

While some trails can be a bit challenging and are better suited for experienced hikers, there are plenty of more accessible walks that the whole family can enjoy.

Go Thrill-Seeking in the Theme Parks

The Gold Coast isn’t nicknamed “Australia’s Theme Park Capital” for nothing. There’s Warner Bros. Movie World, where you can meet your favourite superheroes and experience epic thrill rides. SeaWorld combines marine animal exhibits with exhilarating rides, making it a fun and educational day out for all ages.

If water rides are more your thing, you can’t go past Wet’n’Wild for some splash-filled excitement. Lastly, Dreamworld offers a mix of wild rides, live shows, and a zoo, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Remember to check out the SkyPoint Observation Deck in the evening – the views of the illuminated Gold Coast skyline are nothing short of spectacular.

Shop at Pacific Fair

Just a short tram ride from Surfers Paradise, Pacific Fair is one of Australia’s largest shopping centres and an unmissable stop. With over 400 stores ranging from high-end designers to Aussie high-street favourites, it’s more than just a shopping trip – it’s a retail adventure! Whether you’re after the latest fashion trends, unique homewares, or duty-free goods, Pacific Fair has got you covered. And when you need a shopping break? There’s a cinema and an array of dining options to keep you entertained.

Connect with Aussie Wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Ideal for families travelling to the gold coast with children,  at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary , you’re in for much more than just a quick selfie with a koala (though that’s pretty cool too!). You can roam among the kangaroos, feed the colourful lorikeets, or watch a crocodile feeding show that will give you a new level of respect for these powerful creatures.

If you want to try something truly unique, check out the Sanctuary’s Segway Safari. Gliding around on a Segway, you’ll get up close with various critters in a whole new way. Plus, all the while you’re enjoying your day out, you’re also contributing to the preservation of these magnificent animals, as the Sanctuary is also a hospital for injured wildlife.

Where to stay on the Gold Coast:

Luxury option: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise

Mid-range option: Meriton Suites, Surfers Paradise

Best time to go on a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast

​​ Lucky for you, Australia’s East Coast is one of those glorious places that look good all year round. But, if you’re looking for that sweet spot when the weather is just right, and the crowds are a touch lighter, then aim for the shoulder seasons – Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November).

During these periods, you’ll find the climate perfectly comfortable – warm, but not too hot, making your outdoor adventures around Byron, Coffs, and the Gold Coast super enjoyable. You’ll avoid the peak summer holiday rush too, which means less traffic on the roads and more peace on the beaches.

However, if surfing’s your jam, the winter months (June to August) can offer some fantastic swells. Just remember, while it’s winter, this is still sunny Australia we’re talking about. So, no snowstorms in sight, just cooler nights and fresh, crisp days.

Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip: FAQs

What is the best month to visit the gold coast.

Sunshine is a regular guest in the Gold Coast, appearing for around 300 days a year! However, the prime time to visit is between May and October, thanks to the warm weather perfect for beach and boat activities and visiting theme parks. Bear in mind, December to January is school holiday season, meaning it’s busier and pricier, while late January and most of February see more rainfall and humidity.

How many days in Gold Coast is enough?

That’s a tough one as it depends on what you’re into, but generally, 3-4 days will give you a good taste of the beaches, theme parks, and local attractions.

Is it easy to drive in the Gold Coast?

Absolutely! Navigating the Gold Coast by car is quite straightforward. Plus, if you’re planning on exploring some of the breathtaking national parks in the vicinity, driving gives you the best flexibility and convenience.

Where do locals go on the Gold Coast?

For a local experience, the Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets are The Village Markets, Tallebudgera Creek, and Mount Tamborine. The Village Markets are a cultural hotspot, featuring a fascinating mix of emerging and vintage fashion designers, live local music, and a bustling Sunday atmosphere. Tallebudgera Creek is another local favourite, known for its serene waters. Lastly, Mount Tamborine in the hinterland is a go-to, famed for lush greenery, and its superb wineries.

Is it safe to walk at night in the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast maintains a reassuringly low crime rate and the presence of the Queensland police service patrolling the streets only bolsters the feeling of security. As with any destination, it’s still wise to use common sense when out at night, but generally speaking, the Gold Coast is a safe and welcoming place, day and night.

What town is halfway between Sydney and Brisbane?

The vibrant city of Coffs Harbour sits approximately halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, making it a perfect stopover for a bite to eat, a quick swim or a well-deserved rest.

Before you go…

Just as you’re getting ready to embark on this fantastic Sydney to Gold Coast road trip, I’ve got one last piece of advice – why stop at the Gold Coast? If you’ve got a little more time on your hands, consider extending your adventure. Australia’s East Coast is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, and there’s a whole lot more waiting for you just beyond the Gold Coast.

That’s right, I’m talking about continuing your journey all the way to Brisbane. Think of it as the extended cut of your road trip, with even more stunning beaches, captivating hinterlands, and vibrant cities to explore. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it?

Why not go one further and take a road trip up to the Sunshine Coast? There are so many epic places to check out, it should definitely be on your travel itinerary!

Travel Expert

Chloe Scorgie, the creative force behind Passport Down Under, offers an insider's perspective on relocating and exploring Australia. A British expatriate who made the leap to Australia in 2022, she leverages her firsthand experiences to guide and inspire others embarking on a similar journey. Her experience of navigating the complexities of moving to Australia with a young child adds a unique and relatable perspective for families. From finding the best beaches for surfing to understanding the intricacies of emigration, Chloe's insights are invaluable for anyone considering an Australian adventure, particularly those with young families.

Passport Down Under has proudly featured in major publications such as BBC Travel, Go!Banking Rates, Yahoo! Finance and Best Life Online.

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SIXT Magazine Australia

Travel Tips & News from SIXT Rent a Car

The Ultimate Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

The Sydney to Gold Coast drive is bordered by a beautiful array of lush wilderness, turquoise blue beaches and seaside towns. And whether you’re planning to leisurely make your way up north with plenty of time up your sleeve or are looking to pick up a leg of the journey for your next weekend away, our Sydney to Gold Coast road trip itinerary is a great place to start.

If you’re from elsewhere in Australia or overseas, save yourself the dead miles and fly in and pick up your car hire from Sydney airport or another convenient Sydney location . This way you can keep all your break dedicated to what you came here to do. 

You’ll soon be cruising alongside stretches of pristine beaches, stopping in at different ports and villages to try the local foodie scene in between. The beauty of driving is the choice is yours of where to go and when, with our helpful guide supplying the inspiration you need to get started.

Driving from Sydney to the Gold Coast: Quick Facts

How long does it take to drive from sydney to the gold coast.

The Sydney to Gold Coast drive is approximately 9 hours. But to make the most of the best stops along the way, you can expect to spend around 11-13 hours on the road.

How long to spend road-tripping Sydney to the Gold Coast? 

Our Sydney to Gold Coast road trip covers all the tops stops, allocating 8 nights and 9 days for exploring before a comfortable arrival at the final destination. But if you need to quicken the pace, you can skip some of the shorter stops or hire your car from Port Macquarie or Coffs Harbour and start the trip further north. 

Sydney to Gold Coast distance

A direct Sydney to Gold Coast drive is approximately 845 km, with our itinerary covering around 1,000 km.

Is it worth driving from Sydney to the Gold Coast? 

The incredibly scenic road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is one of Australia’s best drives. It hugs the coastline the entire way, offering some incredible views and plenty of seaside towns for relaxing and easy stops. From hidden aquatic treasures to the magic of the hinterlands, it’s far from a boring highway drive and well worth adding to your road trip list.

How much is it going to cost in fuel to drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast? 

To complete this Sydney to Gold Coast drive, the average price you’d expect to pay in fuel is around $200. This is for a one way trip, based on NRMA’s most recent (at the time of writing) fuel report and average litres per 100km. 

Though, this is if you’re not hiring an electric vehicle , which would make the 1000ks a lot cheaper and perhaps a little more special, too. 

Sydney to Central Coast

Drive distance: 95 km – 1.5 hours Recommended days : 1 days, 1 night 

Pickup your car directly from Sydney airport and hit the road to save on those city hotels. If you’re already a Sydneysider, pick up your choice of car rental at Hornsby , Parramatta or whichever branch is most convenient for you. 

Where to stop: Pie In The Sky – It’s on the old pacific highway, which is so worth taking, even if just for this pit stop. Grab a coffee and sample some of the greatest Aussie meat pies right there on the Pacific Highway. The perfect way to start your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip.

Take a coastal walk – The Central Coast is a hiking haven, with plenty of short and long trails to choose from. If you’re up for a long journey filled with epic views, secluded bays and whale watching, the 8.5 km Bouddi Coastal Walk can’t be beaten. Or, for something a little more leisurely, take the 1-hour scenic stroll from MacMasters to Little Beach, and with any luck, you’ll have the secluded cove all to yourself at the end. 

Enjoy some post-hike sundowners – Is there anything better than sipping a cold drink while overlooking a sunset on the coast? We don’t think so. If you’ve just worked up a thirst on a hike, find a spot on the terrace at the Terrigal Beach House for a spritz with a side of sea breeze or head to the Cali-cool Shady Palms at Avoca Beach for a serving of champagne and oysters.

Foodie heaven – You don’t have to look hard to find some incredible restaurants on the Central Coast. The Cowrie and Yellowtail are two superb choices for modern Australian cuisine, and the freshly-made pasta at the Gusto Italian Bistro brings the taste of Northern Italy to Ettalong Beach.

Rest your head – Sink into a king-size bed in a Hamptons-inspired room at The Quarters or choose from a range of camping, glamping and villa options at the NRMA Ocean Holiday Resort . Rest up and get ready to hit the road in the morning – adventure awaits!

Central Coast to Port Macquarie 

Drive distance: 329 km – 3.5 hours Recommended days: 2 days, 2 nights

Where to stop: If you’ve opted for an electric vehicle rental , you’ll find a Chargefox location (free charging for SIXT customers) in Karuah, as well as at the Oxley Highway turn off as you head into Port Macquarie.

Sand dune adventures – As you leave the Central Coast, head north an hour and a half towards Nelson Bay, and you’ll wind up at Worimi National Park . The vast and shifting sand dunes are a sight to behold and a playground for all kinds of adventures. Saddle up a horse, ride a camel, or try sandboarding down the dunes. A fantastic experience!

Myall Lake – For your next overnight stay on your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast, we highly recommend the water playground of Myall Lake. Stay in an Eco Treehouse and in the morning head to one of Australia’s most beautiful hidden beaches, Seal Rocks. The impossibly blue ocean looks even more dramatic from above and the walk up to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse is well worth it.

7 Mile Beach detour – When you’re ready to hit the road again, take the long route via 7 Mile Beach for a better view out the window before rejoining the M1 up to Port Macquarie. This way, you’ll also bypass Forster, home to a large number of bottlenose dolphins which can often be spotted in the water.

Visit the Koala Hospital – Settle in for the night in Port Macquarie, and in the morning, head to the Koala Hospital , a wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating our native fauna. Afterwards, grab a coffee and some brekkie at the bright and breezy Frankie’s before hitting the road again.

Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour

Drive distance: 159 km – 1 hour 45 mins Recommended days : 3 days, 2 nights

Where to stop: Stop for fuel at the Caltex in Kempsey for plenty of food options, parking and restrooms.

Crescent Head lookout – Break up the drive with fresh air and a breathtaking view.

Stop for lunch in Nambucca Heads – Take advantage of the surrounding Nambucca Valley farms and stop in for some local food at one of the restaurants or ensemble your own picnic from the roadside stalls.

Explore the river – Make the most of the calm waters of Nambucca River and hire a boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board. Cruise along until sunset or take a cheeky nap on one of the banks before jumping back in the car to reach Coffs Harbour for dinner.

Take a drive around Waterfall Way – Wake up the following day and get ready to chase some waterfalls. From Coffs, drive towards Bellingen and pass by lush rainforest, river valleys and (you guessed it) plenty of roadside waterfalls. Waterfall Way is one of the top highlights of the Sydney to Gold Coast drive – if you’re keen to take a little longer or stretch your legs, there are plenty of hiking trails here. 

Visit Dorrigo – For a spot where you can stop, hike around and plunge yourself into one of the waterfalls, you can’t beat Dorrigo. The picturesque Dangar Falls is a favourite and offers easy access for a refreshing swim at the base. Cool off before heading back to Coffs for dinner – fish and chips by the beach are always a classic.

Swing by The Big Banana – On your last morning in Coffs, take a coastal walk before grabbing your morning brew at Supply . Then on your way out of town, stop at The Big Banana for an iconic road trip photo.

Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay

Drive distance: 233 km – 2.5 hours Recommended days: 3 days, 3 nights

Where to stop: If The Big Banana wasn’t enough of a treat for your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip, consider cruising by The Big Prawn too. While it’s no longer a service station, you’ll find one just 3 minutes down the road to give you a full tank for Byron or stop at Ballina for a Chargefox charging station.

Hike to the lighthouse – With so much to do in Byron Bay, you’ll want to get there right away. Start with the popular Cape Byron Walking track, where you’ll stroll past sweeping ocean views (and perhaps a dolphin or two) before reaching the beautiful lookout of the lighthouse.

Go kayaking with dolphins – To increase your chances of spotting some majestic animals in the wild, head out on the clear, shallow waters of the beautiful Brunswick River via a guided kayak tour. Dolphins, turtles and stingrays have been known to join the adventure.

Explore the beautiful, tiny surrounding towns – Unspoiled villages are scattered throughout the Byron Bay hinterland, with countryside left precisely how it has always been. Nearby Mullumbimby, Bangalow, Clunes and Alstonville are all worth a visit. You can pick up a hire car from Ballina and Byron Bay if you’ve arrived by other means.

Snorkel the reef – Julian Rocks is a top spot for snorkelling in Byron Bay, where you’re likely to encounter manta rays and reef sharks among smaller fish species on the well-run tours . Or grab your own snorkel and head back to Brunswick River. The water is surprisingly clear at high tide for snorkelling, too– just be careful of the sharp oyster shells as you get in and out.

Byron Bay to Gold Coast 

Drive distance: 177 km – 2 hours 38 mins Recommended days: 1 day to reach your final destination

Where to stop: Make the last leg of your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast memorable by stopping at Moo Moo Roadhouse. Milkshakes, motorbikes and memorabilia – need we say more?

Travel inland – From Moo Moo, you’ll already be heading towards some of the magical hinterlands that lay southwest of the Gold Coast. Type ‘Natural Bridge’ into your GPS, and you’ll soon come across an enchanting arched cave with a waterfall plunging from above.

Tick off the best lookouts – Make the most of the surrounding Springbrook National Park by heading to Canyon Lookout and Twin Falls next. Sit for a few minutes and soak up the sounds of running water while breathing in the cool rainforest air.

Head back inland to the Gold Coast – From Springbrook, you’re just an hour away from the end of your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. What adventure lies next is up to you, with flexible returns available for your car hire at the Gold Coast airport .

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7-Day Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

Planning your 7-day road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast? You’re in for a real treat! This route will take you through some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery – perfect for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Quick pit stops at charming seaside towns offer a wealth of delicious eats, stimulating sights, and plenty of opportunities to capture amazing pictures. The picturesque views come one after another as you take this journey up north – from relaxed rural areas to dense rainforests to golden beaches – all in one walloping dose. So make sure you set aside time for appreciating your surroundings as well as making great memories along the way!

Sydney to Gold Coast Distance

Soak in the beautiful views of the countryside as you drive along a 937km stretch that takes approximately 11 hours. With numerous stopping points on the way, enjoy the freedom of customisation and plan your trip accordingly. From snorkelling to bushwalking and surfing to beach hopping, there is something for everyone. Get ready to experience Australia’s east coast like never before.

937km trip distance

7 day roadtrip

Campervan recommended

Day 1: Sydney to Newcastle

Day 1 kicks off with a drive up north to Newcastle, if you wanted a quick trip up to Stockton beach, you could head 30 mins along the water. Or for a bit of a longer journey, you could keep heading north up to Nelson Bay along the Pacific Highway. This city offers an abundance of attractions, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a fun and exciting vacation. With its warm, sandy beaches, vibrant streets, luxurious cafés and markets, as well as its historical landmarks and sights, this former industrial town has something to offer every traveller. Whether you’re into outdoor activities or simply want to take in the sun and unwind on the beach, don’t miss out on all that Newcastle has to offer!

Sightseeing #1: Fort Scratchley

Fort Scratchley is a valuable and integral part of Newcastle’s history. Located on the headland, the lookout site has been used since pre-colonial times by local Aboriginal tribes, taking advantage of its elevated viewpoint as well as seams of coal found near its base. With an art deco style design, recently renovated structures, and spectacular harbour views, Fort Scratchley occupies an essential place in Newcastle’s rich and fascinating past that is well worth exploring.

Sightseeing #2: Bogey Hole

A visit to Bogey Hole, the oldest European-built ocean pool along the NSW coast, provides travellers with a unique experience. This iconic landmark is not only a beautiful sight but also holds immense importance in local history. Its one-of-a-kind charm means that it’s an absolute must when exploring Newcastle – you won’t find another adventure quite like this. The memories made at Bogey Hole will undoubtedly stay with you for years to come.

Day 2: Newcastle to Taree

Admire picturesque views of forests, beaches, rivers and national parks in lush surrounds as you wind your way from Newcastle to Taree, taking a moment or two along the way to stretch your legs and take in nature’s splendour. An unforgettable experience awaits you upon arrival in Taree – explore this captivating town’s galleries, museums, cafes and shopping districts as you immerse yourself in local culture and history.

Sightseeing #1: Apex Lookout

Apex Lookout in Taree offers stunning farmland views and nearby water features, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Hikers will love exploring the trails around the lookout, while animal spotters can expect to see some interesting local wildlife. If you’re looking to take some amazing photos, then visiting at sunrise or sunset is highly recommended.

Sightseeing #2: Coorabakh National Park

Coorabakh National Park is a sight to behold, providing stunning vistas and breathtaking scenery. Visitors will get to observe the recent remains of ancient volcanoes that have shaped the landscape for thousands of years. There are multiple activities in this naturally gorgeous spot that abound, with options for hiking, picnicking and birdwatching.

Day 3: Taree to Port Macquarie

On day 3 of your 7-day Sydney to Gold Coast drive, stop in the dynamic city of Port Macquarie. Visit its well-known Koala Hospital and take advantage of its plethora of activities, including skydiving, paragliding, horseriding, surfing, boating and more. Explore the region’s mesmerizing national parks, scenic waterways like Hastings River and idyllic beaches. Spend some time soaking in the local atmosphere by enjoying a leisurely stroll or having some freshly caught oysters for lunch.

Sightseeing #1: Koala Hospital

Located on the grounds of Roto House, the Koala Hospital is truly a unique and special place – it is the world’s first hospital dedicated solely to the care and preservation of koalas. Equipped with state-of-the-art treatment rooms and intensive care units, along with 24 Hour Rescue & Treatment operations and recovery yards, this facility features an exciting insight into koala rehabilitation. To experience everything that Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital has to offer, stop by during opening hours (8:30 am to 4 pm every day) for a guided tour or free visit around our facilities.

Sightseeing #2: Sea Acres National Park

This protected area hosts one of the largest and least altered coastal rainforests in New South Wales, despite facing pressure from agricultural expansion, mining or housing. The separate rainforest section adjacent to Shelley Beach creates a unique nature experience right by the sea. Take in the lush surroundings, listen to the calls of native birds or follow boardwalks offering spectacular views over timber-framed landscapes – all without leaving Port Macquarie’s boundaries.

Day 4: Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour

Famous for its ‘Big Banana’, Coffs Harbour is a popular holiday and service centre known for its banana plantations, resorts, mild climate and fishing opportunities. There are many different activities available within the mountains, which tumble down to the sea at this location, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of this naturally stunning region. From snorkelling to whale-watching tours and taking unique adventures in the rainforest or exploring old gold mining towns, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Coffs Harbour.

Sightseeing #1: Dolphin Marine Conservation Park

With a wide range of activities and experiences, you can get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, penguins and more. Whether you book a private land-based experience or swim with the dolphins, these incredible memories are guaranteed to be some of your fondest. Plus, as a conservation park that has made it its mission to protect and save marine animals and oceans, being at the park is sure to inspire all who visit about the work being done. So come along and enjoy the best family experience Coffs Harbour has to offer!

Sightseeing #2: Dorrigo National Park

Just one hour’s drive away, the national park rests high on the Dorrigo Plateau overlooking breathtaking views and providing an ideal nature escape. Noted for its diverse sub-tropical vegetation and surrounding native birdlife, this World Heritage-listed region is a paradise for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. With wheelchair-accessible paths, plenty of scenic spots for BBQ lunch or picnics, and captivating waterfalls nestled in lush forests to explore, Dorrigo National Park is not to be missed.

Day 5: Coffs Harbour to Yamba

As you embark on your seven-day voyage from Sydney to Gold Coast, don’t miss the chance to explore Yamba’s mesmerizing natural beauty and vibrant culture! On day five of your journey, this picturesque coastal village will captivate you with its rustic riverside shops and myriad travel routes. From gorgeous beaches to bustling markets–Yamba holds an abundance of activities that make it a beloved holiday destination for both locals and visitors alike. Uncover why many have fallen in love with Yamba when visiting on your road trip.

Sightseeing #1: Yamba Lighthouse

Standing tall for more than a century, the Yamba Lighthouse provides magnificent views of the surrounding grassland. This is the perfect spot to take a break from swimming at the beach and have a picnic or grab some local fish and chips. Whale watching is also possible during certain times of the year, and on full moon nights, you can watch it rise in all its glory.

Sightseeing #2: Yuraygir Coastal Walk

The Yuraygir Coastal Walk is an incredible journey along the coast of Yamba, taking in heathlands, beaches, creeks, lagoons and more. You’ll have stunning views as you traverse ancient trails preserved by the local Aboriginals. Wildflowers are abundant throughout the route, and there’s an abundance of wildlife to observe. It’s possible to complete the 65 km track with camping stops or break it up into shorter segments. The walk is best undertaken going north to south and will offer adventurers a unique experience they won’t quickly forget.

Day 6: Yamba to Byron Bay

On the sixth day of your Sydney-Gold Coast journey, you will find yourself in Byron Bay – Australia’s easternmost point. Be sure to check out its famed lighthouse and all of its fascinating stores, eateries and culinary delights! Moreover, there are plenty of exciting festivals taking place throughout the year, with live music gigs, sports events and art galleries for you to explore.

Sightseeing #1: Cape Byron Lighthouse

Offering incredible views of the breathtaking and majestic Cape Byron Headland, the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse offers a striking presence on the horizon of Byron Bay. As Australia’s most easterly point along mainland shores, this lighthouse is truly one-of-a-kind with its impressive 27-nautical mile beam. Aside from being a vibrant piece of maritime history, this destination also provides an excellent spot for whale watching or simply taking in their beauty as they leisurely pass by.

Sightseeing #2: Tallow Beach

Whether you’ve been to Byron Bay or not, it’s easy to visualize the incredible view of its serene coastline. Tallow Beach boasts a stunning array of natural splendour, with its iconic lighthouse at one end and Broken Head at the other. Not only is this beach a sight for sore eyes, but also a well-loved spot for pet owners as pooches are allowed to roam around leash-free within several kilometres from the shoreline.

Day 7: Byron Bay to Gold Coast

On the seventh and final day of your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip, you will arrive in the beautiful coastal city of Gold Coast. From its iconic surf beaches, lush national parks and famous theme parks to shopping, nightlife and hinterland attractions, there is something for everyone on the Gold Coast. With all its attractions, it’s no wonder visitors keep coming back time and time again to experience everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Sightseeing #1: Surfers Paradise Beach

Surfers Paradise is one of the most beautiful spots in Gold Coast, and it’s not hard to see why. Lined with white umbrellas, colourful beachfront hotels, and a stunning three-kilometre strip of golden sand, it is no surprise that this famously pristine beach attracts surfers, swimmers and joggers from all around the world. Breathtakingly beautiful sunsets, countless activities to enjoy, and happening beachside bars make Surfers Paradise Beach an idyllic spot for sightseeing unlike any other.

Sightseeing #2: Tamborine Mountain

Tamborine Mountain offers visitors 10 different types of forest, offering numerous opportunities for exploration and discovery. Its forests provide habitat for an incredible 900 different species of plants which comprise a remarkable 65% of all plant species found in the biodiverse Gold Coast area. Tamborine Mountain is sure to be an engaging and enjoyable experience for those seeking a nature-filled itinerary and is guaranteed to provide long-lasting memories.

Happy Exploring!

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If you want to read more of our Sydney adventures, come and explore the dedicated  Sydney Road Trips . Happy Exploring!

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Gold Coast to Sydney: 14-Day Campervan Itinerary

Road tripping through coastal paradise—the best of australia's east coast.

If you're looking for an epic adventure along Australia's stunning East Coast, look no further than this 14-day campervan road trip itinerary. Starting from Lamington National Park and ending in Sydney, this itinerary takes you through some of the most beautiful coastal towns, national parks, and wildlife reserves in New South Wales. From hiking to surfing to wildlife watching, there's something for everyone on this unforgettable journey.

Compare campervan rentals on the Gold Coast with Camper Champ's user-friendly platform. You can also pick up a rental motorhome in Sydney for a one-way rental in the opposite direction.

Day 1: Into the Green - Lamington National Park

Welcome to the lush Lamington National Park, nestled in the Gold Coast hinterland. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it hosts a wide variety of wildlife, boasting over 160 bird species and 90 distinct mammals. Stroll along the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, high above the treetops, and keep a lookout for the elusive Albert's Lyrebird. For a truly memorable adventure, explore the O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk, where you'll traverse the rainforest's lush canopy.

Day 2: Sun, Surf, and Sand - Kingscliff

Make a splash in Kingscliff, a quaint seaside town renowned for its beaches, rolling waves, and fresh seafood. Take a rejuvenating swim in the Tweed River's shimmering turquoise waters or venture to Fingal Head to marvel at the imposing basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway. If you're a foodie, be sure to visit the Kingscliff Markets, which offers an array of delicious locally sourced food.

Day 3: The Hippie Scene - Nimbin

It’s time to embrace the laid-back lifestyle of Nimbin—a colourful town known for its hippie vibe and creative community. Wander through the street art and craft markets, and learn about the area's fascinating history of counterculture and activism. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Nimbin Candle Factory, where you can learn about the art of candle making and create your own unique candle.

Day 4: Bay Life - Byron Bay

Unwind in the easygoing atmosphere of Byron Bay, a surf town with a thriving arts scene. Head to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of the Australian mainland, to catch breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline. For an adrenaline rush, try hang gliding or skydiving over the stunning Byron Bay landscape.

Day 5: Beaches and Brews - Lennox Head

Discover the picturesque beach town of Lennox Head, which boasts some of the best surf breaks in Australia. Relax on the sandy beaches, or explore the charming boutiques and cafes in the town centre. For beer lovers, check out the Stone & Wood Brewery, which offers a range of locally brewed beers and ales.

Day 6: Discover Coastal Living - Yamba

Yamba is a scenic coastal town at the mouth of the Clarence River and a beloved holiday destination for surfers, fishermen, and families. Stroll along the tranquil walkway of Angourie Point to admire the stunning ocean views or explore the historic Yamba Lighthouse, which dates back to 1879.

Day 7: The Big Banana and Beyond - Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour, a lively coastal city, has plenty to offer its visitors. Begin by capturing a memorable photo with the iconic Big Banana, one of Australia's renowned "big things." For an adrenaline rush, experience white water rafting or kayaking on the Coffs Harbour River. Lastly, treat yourself to mouthwatering fresh seafood at one of the numerous restaurants lining the harbour.

Day 8: Riverfront Relaxation - Nambucca Heads

Nestled at the mouth of the Nambucca River, Nambucca Heads is embraced by gorgeous beaches, waterways, and rainforest reserves—it’s a place where time seems to stand still. Its relaxed and welcoming ambience makes it a favoured holiday spot for families, retirees, and backpackers alike. Check out the scenic boardwalk, which boasts breathtaking views of the river and ocean and for a dose of local maritime history, check out the Nambucca Heads Museum, which showcases the area's captivating heritage.

Day 9: Nature and Adventure - South West Rocks

Plunge into the pristine waters at Fish Rock Cave, one of Australia's top diving spots, or take a guided tour of the historic Trial Bay Gaol, a 19th-century prison offering a glimpse into the country's convict past. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, like the South West Rocks Festival of the Sun and the Fishrock Dive Festival. Feeling adventurous? Climb up to Smoky Cape Lighthouse and soak in the breathtaking views of the coastline.

Day 10: Koalas and Kangaroos - Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is a beautiful coastal town with plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. Visit the Koala Hospital, which cares for injured and sick koalas, or take a guided tour of the Billabong Zoo, home to a wide range of Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and crocodiles.

Day 11: Lakeside Leisure - Forster

Forster is a chilled coastal town located on the shores of Wallis Lake, where you can unwind on the sandy beaches or venture onto the lake with a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters. For those craving adventure, visit Booti Booti National Park, where you'll find picturesque hiking trails and stunning coastal vistas.

Day 12: Dolphin Watching - Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay is a popular vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches and captivating wildlife. Embark on a dolphin-watching cruise and get up close with these playful animals as they frolic and leap alongside the boat. For a touch of local culture, stop by the Tilligerry Habitat, which highlights the area's flora and fauna and offers various educational programs and events.

Day 13: Pelican Feeding - The Entrance

The Entrance is a coastal town located on the shores of Tuggerah Lake. Watch as the friendly pelicans gather at the waterfront for daily feeding or stroll along the picturesque coastal walkway. It’s a fantastic place to try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on the lake's calm waters.

Day 14: Coast and City - Manly to Sydney

End your trip in style at Manly Beach, located on Sydney's northern beaches. Take a surf lesson or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on the sandy beach and soak up that last bit of sun. A promenade runs along the coast from Queenscliff to Shelly beach—a perfect snorkelling spot. Manly Corso, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, creates a buzzing atmosphere that links to North Head Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the Sydney Harbor and surrounding areas.

Circular Quay in Sydney's CBD is also easily accessible by regular ferries departing from Manly Warf, taking approximately 30 minutes to get you into the city. An epic way to end your 14-day coastal trip. With a cocktail in hand at one of Sydney’s most happening spots—Opera Bar, set underneath the Opera House, which offers live music and spectacular harbour views, there’s no better way to say goodbye to this vibrant city.

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7 Beautiful Stops on Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

Explore the beauty of NSW in this epic Sydney to Gold Coast road trip

Australia brims with endless sunshine, idyllic beaches, dramatic landscapes, quaint coastal-side towns, and excellent cuisine. The more you explore this country, the more you find adventures within it. It’s a country one can always enjoy, as it presents endless opportunities for you to unravel. And well, if you want to experience a bit of everything in Australia, then there’s no better exploration than Sydney to Gold Coast road trip .

As we continue our set of the Australian Road Trip series , it’s time to discover what Sydney to Gold Coast really offers. This road trip is a part of our ultimate Melbourne to Gold Coast, where we have listed all the possible activities, adventures, and family-based excursions. But, considering that the journey to Gold Coast from Melbourne is pretty long (1704 km), we thought of breaking down this journey into shorter trips. Explore this page to find out more about shorter Australian road trips.

Sydney to Gold Coast road trip is perfect for families who want to see the best of Australia. You’ll find plenty of spectacular stopovers, from classic Sydney highlights to NSW’s most acclaimed wine regions and beaches. The drive from Sydney makes you want to stop at every place to admire the serene beauty of New South Wales. In addition to the places you visit, the accommodation in the region makes it perfect for relaxing your tired body.

And that’s what I am going to cover in this article!

To help you plan a better Sydney to Gold Coast road trip, I’ve listed all the compatible excursions, must-see places to visit, popular things to do, and insider tips. You’ll also find a list of recommended hotels throughout your trip.

Planning Tips for Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

Driving times for sydney to gold coast.

The drive from Sydney to Gold Coast is a total of 845 km. If you were to drive non-stop without any stopovers, then the approximate time to reach Gold Coast is 8hr 55mins. However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it’s best to include stops throughout your entire road trip.

There are multiple routes to Gold Coast: Pacific Highway, New England Highway, and M1. We prefer the Pacific Highway route for this journey and most of our NSW road trips. This stretch is more scenic and offers more viewpoints and better attractions and experiences compared to the other two.

Here’s a quick glance at suggested & alternative routes & their times:

Via New England Highway/A15: 11hr 09mins (954kms) – alternative driving route for Sydney to Gold Coast. Via the Pacific Highway/A1:   8hr 55mins (845kms) – the recommended route. Via M1: 11hr 15mins (977kms) – longest route

How to Rent a Car in Australia

For road trips within any country, you’d need a car or a suitable campervan. And ideally, you’d want to ensure that you choose the right vehicle for your entire road trip. For visitors who tour Australia, I highly recommend Rentalcars.com . I’ve booked my rental cars from them and their service is remarkable. You get a good variety of cars to choose from, so you can always handpick the one most suitable for your journey. Furthermore, their rental rates are much more reasonable compared to other operators.

Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip Map

Here’s a direct driving route map to reach Gold Coast:

The Best Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip Stops

Explore highlights of sydney.

Sydney – home to some of Australia’s most iconic settings – truly sets the tone for having a perfect Aussie trip. The charming beauty of its natural and man-made attractions impulses the vibe for all tourists visiting this city for the first time. The city has been a playground for families, bachelors, backpackers and all tourists alike – making it an ideal spot to start any Australian road trip.

The cosmopolitan city of Sydney is surrounded by beaches, towering skyscrapers, unique architecture, acclaimed wine regions, award-winning restaurants & bars and designer boutique shops. The diversity of experiences this city holds is genuinely magnificent, giving every visitor their purpose to discover the city independently.

Sydney’s endless list of experiences enables you to dive right into the action of exploring the best activities & tours. From visiting landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House to hopping onto new rooftop bars and pubs – the city spoils you with everything it has!

Some of the best recommended activities to do in Sydney includes:

Explore Sydney’s famous beaches:  Undoubtedly, the best thing to do in Sydney is to relax on one of the beaches. The glistening blue waters splashing up against the golden sand stretches make you want to hit the waters. Swimmers and adventure junkies often find themselves enjoying a variety of water sports in Sydney. Since surfing is so prevalent in Australia – you’ll find tons of surfing coaching classes on these beaches. If this is your first time exploring Sydney and you need to decide which ones to visit, check out Bondi Beach, Manly Beach, and Palm Beach.

Try this adventure | Manly and Shelly Beach Snorkelling Tour

Visit the Rocks:  The Rocks are one of the most beautiful parts of the city. Being the oldest region, this area features small narrow lanes, striking architecture, sandstone churches, and old colonial buildings. Even if you stroll between these lanes, you’ll find a unique display of souvenir shops and some of Sydney’s oldest pubs. The Rocks are also known for its weekend markets. So, do check out their local stalls and artisan products.

Explore Sydney’s Museums: Like any other city, Sydney also has many museums. Interestingly, all the Sydney museums are free, so you could spend an entire day browsing through the collection at each museum. Some of the notable ones which you should definitely visit include  the Australian National Maritime Museum ,  the Art Gallery of New South Wales , and  the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia at The Rocks .

Read more | List of 11 best free museums in Sydney

Where to stay in Sydney, Australia

Luxury Hotel | Rydges World Square Mid-range | The Bayswater Sydney

Discover Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley in Sydney is one of Australia’s most premier wine regions. It’s the ultimate day-trip destination that rewards you with award-winning wineries, sample wine-tasting, classic Australian cuisine, luxurious accommodation, and magical events & festivals. All you got to do, is travel two hours north of Sydney to experience the beauty of Hunter Valley.

Exploring Hunter Valley needs time, as you could spend hours and hours browsing through the cellar doors yet feel you’ve barely scratched the surface. Consider spending at least one or two days exploring all of the region’s highlights.

You should definitely be trying out these activities in Hunter Valley – 

Wine tasting:  Wine tasting is the essence of visiting any acclaimed wine region in Australia. At Hunter Valley, you’ll find more than 150 cellar doors to visit. Of course, it’s challenging to cover all of them over a weekend. Still, you could explore some of the well-known ones –  Usher Tinkler Wines ,  Scarborough on Hermitage  (popular wines offered with cheese platter),  and Audrey Wilkinson cellar door  (you’ll need to book this in advance).

Note : Some of the cellar doors in Hunter Valley charge a small fee for tasting wines.  Read more about Hunter Valley  and its charges.

Explore the beautiful gardens:  Apart from the wineries, Hunter Valley boasts 14 hectares of splendid manicured gardens. To explore them, you have a designated 8km walking track. Most of these gardens are themed so that each individual differs in showcasing their artistry.

Glamping at Hunter Valley:  Glamping in Australia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful yet underrated experiences. Hunter Valley is home to unique eco-friendly houses with a fully-equipped kitchens, open glass windows, and pretty decor. You can book a couple of nights here to witness the charismatic beauty of Hunter Valley.

Take a scenic helicopter flight : Flying over Hunter Valley is one of the most incredible things you’d ever do! Although these aerial tours are expensive, they are literally worthwhile. From above, you can catch amazing sights of the structured vineyards amidst the rolling slopes of the valley.

Read more | The Ultimate Guide to the Best Hunter Valley Wineries

Where to stay in Hunter Valley, Sydney

Mid-range Hotel | Hunter Oasis Budget Stays | Cumberland Motor Inn , Abermain Hotel

Visit Palm Beach

I specifically included Palm Beach in our Sydney to Gold Coast road trip stops because it really needs a special mention. Considering that most tourists always prefer to visit Bondi or Manly Beach, Palm Beach could be a great alternative for those who want to beat the crowd.

Palm Beach, or ‘Palmy’ commonly called by locals, is located at the northernmost point of Sydney. Located at the end of a peninsula, the beach has been a favourite homestay point for wealthy business people and celebrities. Around Palm Beach, plenty of attractions are worth checking out – Barrenjoy Lighthouse , Whale Beach , Avalon Beach , and North Bilgola Lookout . The one which I enjoyed the most was Mona Vale Beach . Featuring a rock pool overlooking jaw-dropping the Pacific Ocean, the spot has become an Instagram-worthy stop point.

The last thing you want to do at Palm Beach is to take lunch at the Boathouse. Located near Governor Phillip Park, the Boathouse has become a landmark for localities living near Palm Beach. This place has also been featured in many TV shows and series. Hence, the popularity.

Accommodation Guide | The best beach-facing accommodation in Palm Beach

Explore Newcastle

It’s time to say goodbye to Sydney finally! We move ahead with our journey to our first stop-over point –  Newcastle . Surrounded by golden beaches, breathtaking suburbs, and a vast coastline, Newcastle is one of the best weekend getaway spots from Sydney. Located just two hours north of Sydney, this place is fantastic for those willing to spend a few nights.

Newcastle offers a perfect blend of laidback coastal life with a suburb that’s bustling with lively restaurants & cafes. The open-air markets, weekend street events, calendar festivals, and unique outdoor activities make Newcastle a must-visit place in NSW.

Furthermore, the outdoor experiences and attractions that Newcastle boasts are simply astounding! There’s so much to do here that you ultimately need an itinerary to plan your schedule.

Below I have recommended some of the top things to do (especially for first-time visitors) in Newcastle –

Checkout Newcastle Breakwall:  You’ll often find visitors taking a stroll along the Newcastle Breakwall, as it gives a full panoramic view of the coastline. Just be mindful of the weather and avoid this place during high tide, as the waves can slam the rocks aggressively.

Explore Bathers Way Coastal Walk:  No trip to Newcastle is complete without exploring its famous 5km trail – Bathers Way Coastal Walk. It’s one of the most beautiful stretches in NSW, offering some of the best coastline views. If you start your walk from Nobby Headland, it will take approximately 2 hours to reach Glenrock Reserve. But I recommend breaking your journey into several parts to admire the viewpoints.

Visit Blackbutt Nature Reserve:  There’s nothing more peaceful than experiencing Australian native wildlife in their natural habitat. If you love doing that, head to Blackbutt Nature Reserve – home to plenty of unique animal species like kangaroos, emus, koalas, wombats, and snakes. Overall, it’s a decent experience for visitors travelling with kids.

Where to stay in Newcastle, NSW

Luxury Hotel | Crystalbrook Kingsley Budget Hotels | Aspire Newcastle , Fern Bay Motel

Go Adventurous at Port Stephens

Port Stephens is a culmination of giant moving dunes, a unique range of wildlife experiences (including the rarest Australian species), striking long coastlines, gorgeous hiking trails, and picturesque beaches. It’s a perfect seaside getaway for those looking to experience the best activities in a single day.

Visiting Port Stephens is one of the highlights of our Sydney to Gold Coast road trip. There’s a plethora of things to do here, and it could overwhelm you if you’re visiting this place for the first time. For starters, below are some of the ‘must-do’ activities in Port Stephens –

Try sandboarding in Port Stephens:  The diversity of landscapes in Australia can be found right here in Port Stephens as you discover the most extensive dune in Southern Hemisphere. The Birubi Beach in Port Stephens offers a mini-dessert arena to enjoy sandboarding and quad-biking. You can also kick off your journey from Stockton Sand Dunes, which offers even more enjoyable activities.

Book a guided tour |  Port Stephens: Unlimited Sandboarding & 4WD Sand Dune Tour

Try local cuisine at Murray’s Brewing Co:  With all the sandboarding in Port Stephens, you might have a worked-up appetite. I recommend visiting Murray’s Brewing Co. It’s one of the best places in Port Stephens to try out local seafood, woodfire pizzas, and delicious ciders.

Stroll around at Stockton Beach : Port Stephens is home to many amazing beaches that look absolutely jaw-dropping during sunsets. Each beach has its peculiarity. But then comes Stockton Beach, which tops the chart in many ways. Known for its exceptional 32km stretch, Stockton Beach harbours giant dunes, wrecked ships, and fantastic walking trails. Even if you had to explore, this beach makes it an excellent place to stroll.

Spend a Full Day at Byron Bay

Byron Bay truly defines the word ‘coastal paradise’. Being one of Australia’s most important tourist towns, Byron Bay has genuinely shaken off the hipster culture in the country. With millions of travellers flocking to this place annually, the town has become widely popular among all age groups to come and make unforgettable memories.

Located to the north of NSW, Byron Bay is surrounded by golden beaches, a remarkable coastline, great vantage points, scenic walking paths & trails, and adventurous outdoor experiences. The amount of things you can do in Byron Bay is limitless. And honestly, it doesn’t matter if you spend a whole day or an entire week – you’ll never get enough of Byron Bay.

Byron Bay packs an abundance of natural beauty in its tiny-sized town. You need a reasonable amount of time to explore everything within Byron Bay. But, even if you’ve got a whole weekend to spend – you could get familiarized with this town’s amazing highlights.

Featured Blog | Byron Bay Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in Byron Bay

Below are some of my favourite things to do in Byron Bay:

Visit Arakwal National Park:  Just a 5-minute drive from the town leads you to one of the stunning places of Byron Bay – Arakwal National Park. Surrounded by hills, bushes, dunes, and a coastline – a park is a heavenly place for those looking to unwind from a bustling crowd. The national park is constantly maintained by the state of New South Wales and by the Arakwal Aboriginal Community. While exploring the park, remember to visit Tallow Beach – one of the underrated beaches of Byron Bay. The sunset views from the coastline of this beach are genuinely striking.

Visit the Iconic Lighthouse:  Cape Byron Lighthouse stands as a recognized landmark of New South Wales. Perched atop the edge of Cape Byron, this Lighthouse marks the easternmost point of Australia. You could only imagine the views from here, overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. On one side of the Lighthouse, you’ll often spot dolphins and turtles popping out of the water, while on the other side, you get to see the vastness of Byron Bay Hinterland.

Explore the Farmers’ Market:  Every Thursday from 8-11 AM, the town hosts weekly farmers’ market for travellers and locals to explore. The focus is primarily on local goods the farmers produce, but there are other items that you can browse through. However, what’s more exciting is that these markets also produce epic events and live music shows. Overall, the market is a great way to meet locals and enjoy great music.

Explore Gold Coast Highlights

From surf breaks to theme parks and wild rainforests to towering skylines, Gold Coast is purely known for its laidback, subtropical climate. Often, you’ll see tons of backpackers on Gold Coast basing themselves to travel to other regions with Australia. Commonly, Surfers Paradise is well-known amongst these backpackers and is often crowded with general tourists. Yet, despite the buzzing crowd – Gold Coast primarily makes up to visitors with its sublime beauty and charming attractions.

And with Gold Coast, you’ve finally reached the end of this road trip. However, there’s a lot to see and do – so ensure that you stay atleast an overnight to explore what Gold Coast is all about.

Our top picks for Gold Coast include – 

Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary:  Ideal for families travelling with their children, a visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will immerse you into the Australian native wildlife the country boasts. It’s one of the exciting ways to get up close and watch these natural habitats doing their activities. With over 70 acres of land, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to unique Australian natives, including dingos, emus, wombats and aviaries.

Book now | A  guided tour to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary .

Explore Surfers Paradise:  As the name suggests, it’s a place where people surf or learn to surf. This area might be jammed with tourists, but you can’t deny that you’ll find the best surfing spots here. If you’re a beginner or want to learn surfing, you can start immediately! You’ll be able to find cheap surfing lessons up and down the coast, where the group teaches you basic foundations. The prices for these lesson starts from 65 AUD.

Visit SkyPoint Climb:  Only if you dare to venture, Gold Coast has got adrenaline activities stored for you. Located on top of the Q1 building, the SkyPoint Climb offers a thrilling experience of standing 270 meters above sea level. The best part? You get the best viewing experience of the entire coastline.

Where to stay in Gold Coast, Australia

Luxury Hotels | Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise , Meriton Suites Broadbeach Budget | Burleigh Gold Coast Motel , Sunshine Beach Resort

Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Lonely Planet  is a leading pioneer in curating travel guides for various destinations. I simply love the in-depth content they publish in their guidebooks, which ultimately makes it easy for travelers to read. I have been using their guidebooks for all my travel-related essentials, and it has helped me to a great extent. I highly recommend using the below books for reference during your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip.

Popular Sydney to Gold Coast Guided Tours

The below-guided tours & excursions will add an extra bit of adventure to your travels. With our partnership with GetYourGuide, we bring out exclusive activities that will totally elevate your road trip experience. Furthermore, their day-trip packages & entrance fees are discounted to help your travel in a budget-friendly way.

Further Readings & Resources

Love Australian road trips? Here are a couple of in-depth guides:

Great Ocean Road : The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days Whitsundays : Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips) Airlie Beach: 3-Day Airlie Beach Itinerary | How to Spend 3 Days in Airlie Beach Flinders Ranges: The Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Explore Fleurieu Peninsula with us:

Experiences : Best Things to Do in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia Where to Stay : 10 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula Coastal Towns : 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

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Melbourne Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Melbourne City

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Road Trip from Sydney to Gold Coast

A road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is one of Australia's classic drives, whether you take the coastal route or head inland and explore the countryside of New South Wales and Queensland. Both showcase areas of incredible scenic beauty, as well as taking you to some wonderful coastal cities and quaint rural towns.

The 845-km road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast follows the Pacific Highway for 9 hours, passing Palm Beach, Terrigal, Coffs Harbour, Yamba and Byron Bay. Alternatively, swing inland to see the Hunter Valley, Tamworth, and Washpool National Park.

This is just a small selection of the many attractions and notable places you can see on this terrific journey. Keep on reading to learn all about them - as well as our guidance for the best road trip route, where to stay along the way, and the best time to take your road trip.

How far is Gold Coast from Sydney and how long will the road trip take?

There are two main routes you can take to get from Sydney to the Gold Coast.

The most direct is via the Pacific Highway, which skirts the coastline. If you love beaches then you will love this drive as it will give you plenty of chances to hit the best sand and surf spots.

Generally this route takes about 9 hours of non-stop driving to complete the 845km distance. So it's possible to leave Sydney after breakfast and arrive on the Gold Coast in time for dinner.

An alternative route will take you through the gorgeous countryside of the New England Highway - a longer journey that takes about 11 hours and 15 minutes to complete the 1000km distance.

This route should appeal to oenophiles in particular, as it will take you through the heart of wine country. It also showcases plenty of historic towns that are rich in cultural significance and heritage.

Best road trip route from Sydney to Gold Coast

A road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is a fabulous drive which offers plenty of gorgeous views and notable points of interest.

It's also a fairly easy drive to undertake with clear signposting, very good roads and plenty of small towns that offer opportunities to refill your gas, take a bathroom break, or grab some food.

The Pacific Highway Route

From Sydney, the Pacific Highway will take you all the way to the Gold Coast, a superb drive that enables you to visit a number of fantastic beach destinations. One of the most famous of them is Palm Beach, which you may well recognise as the setting for the TV show Home & Away.

Leave Sydney on the M1, which starts just north of the Harbour Bridge, then change onto the M2 and A28 before merging back onto the M1 - the Pacific Highway. Although the route name switches between M1 and A1 and points along the way, you'll essentially follow the same road all the way to Gold Coast.

On the way you can take in Terrigal, which boasts a fabulous wide stretch of golden beach.

A little further north you'll pass Coffs Harbour, where in addition to the stunning coastline you can visit the Big Banana - the biggest amusement park on this stretch of coast, complete with the world's largest banana.

Make sure to check out the charming coastal town of Yamba, and the chilled, laid back vibes of Byron Bay as you continue on up the Pacific Highway.

All of these beach side destinations will give you plenty of opportunities to swim, surf, paddleboard, kayak or undertake a wide range of other water sports.

The New England Highway Route

The New England Highway will take you through the heart of The Hunter Valley.

To get there, start off leaving Sydney via the M1 and A1, as with the Pacific Highway Route, as far as Seahampton, where you'll turn onto the M15.

The M15 leads you through the Hunter Valley, where the delightful scenery offers you views across some of Australia's finest vineyards. You'll have plenty of opportunities to stop off at the wineries on this route, to visit their cellar doors where you can enjoy tastings and charcuterie boards.

If you take a short detour along Lovedale Road, Wine Country Drive and Broke Road you'll reach Pokolbin, or carry on until the M15 becomes the A15 to stop at Muswellbrook. Both towns contain a range of world class wineries, including Ivanhoe Wines, the Waverley Estate and the Wynwood Estate.

Continue further along the A15 past Willow Tree and you will reach Tamworth, which is home to the second biggest country music festival in the world. Here, turn right onto the B56/A15 to continue your drive along the New England Highway.

Where the roads separate at Bendemeer, stay on the A15 through Uralla to reach Armidale. This town in the Northern Tablelands has been labelled the 'Cathedral City' on account of its stunning architecture.

Continuing on you can make a detour to Glencoe, which features the Red Lion Tavern, a traditional old English-style pub that is definitely worth stopping in for a pint.

Otherwise, at Gleninnes turn onto the B76 Gwydir Highway, which takes you past a series of spectacular national parks. Gibraltar Range National Park and Washpool National Park are both accessible from the B76 and offer some fantastic hiking opportunities.

Further along the road, a trip to Nymboida National Park lets you get even further off the beaten track. Note that a 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended to get into the heart of this national park.

Or for a different sort of experience, book ahead for a thrilling rafting trip along the Nymboida River - you can arrange for pick up in Grafton for easier access to the park.

As you approach South Grafton, take Charles Street then turn left to briefly follow the B91 towards Grafton centre, before turning right at the roundabout onto Big River Way. This takes you to the Pacific Highway at Tyndale - then simply follow the Pacific Highway Route all the way to Gold Coast.

Best places to stop between Sydney and Gold Coast

Whichever route you decide to take, we recommend making at least one, if not a couple of overnight stops.

There are lots of fantastic places you can choose to stay at, but here are some of our favourites.

Seek out koalas in Port Macquarie

Located at the mouth of the Hastings River around 4 hours out of Sydney, just short of the half way point of this route, Port Macquarie is a great place to take a break on your drive if you are taking the Pacific Highway Route.

Historically a penal colony, Port Macquarie is better known now for its fantastic beaches and the diversity of wildlife. In fact, this seaside town also has the highest koala population on the east coast of Australia. If you're not lucky enough to spot one in the wild you can meet them at nearby Billabong Zoo.

If you want to find out more about the past of Port Macquarie and surrounding areas, the Hastings Historical Society Museum is a great place to start. Then take the short drive to Sea Acres National Park for a glimpse of the coastal rainforests that the first European settlers here would have been greeted with when they arrive.

Wrap the day up with some time on one of the city's stunning beaches - the sweeping wide sands of Lighthouse Beach are a great place to start.

After a day of driving and exploring, you'll want to find somewhere relaxing to recharge your batteries - and The Ana Mandara Luxury Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place for that . Set on two beautiful acres that overlook the Hastings River, the property is within a five minute drive to five different beaches.

The town centre is still only a short drive if you want to check out the local bars and restaurants, or maybe just chill out and relax in the onsite hot tub.

Embrace the chill out vibes of Byron Bay (Pacific Highway Route)

Boasting fantastic beaches, verdant hinterland and a distinctly relaxed ambiance, you should definitely take the opportunity to embrace the chill out vibes of Byron Bay.

Nearby also, is the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse. This is first place in Australia to witness the sunrise every morning. So if you can get up early enough, you'll be able to check it out in all its glory.

If you're going to be spending the night in town, chances are you want somewhere right by the ocean, and close enough to Byron Bay's restaurants and bars that you won't have to get back in the car again after a day on the road. Beach Hotel Resort offers you just that, just a stones throw from Byron Bay Main Beach this popular hotel boasts amazing sea views in the heart of the action.

Right at the doorstep of the Beach Hotel, known locally as 'The Beachy', you can enjoy the beautiful spa swimming pool and hot tub in the day, and then live music each night. There promises to be plenty going on once the sun goes down!

Alternatively, if you're looking to stretch your budget on a really stylish accommodation option, look no further than The Villas of Byron , where self-contained apartments come with private pool and hot tub. There's even a resident chef who can make you exceptional 3-course meals, as well as fabulous sushi and seafood platters.

Situated right near Main Beach, the accommodation is very close to Byron's main strip of cafes and bars, which will be very handy for you when you want to head out for a night on the tiles.

Take a detour through the Hunter Valley (New England Highway Route)

If you are a wine lover then the New England Highway gives you plenty of opportunity to visit any number of wineries.

You will find a lot of them are located in and around Pokolbin, so it's worth staying overnight here to enable you to leave the car behind and check a few out.

If you are looking to stay somewhere with the 'wow' factor then look no further than Spicers Guesthouse . This fabulous 5-star guest house is incredibly stylish and modern throughout, with a concierge service to accommodate all your needs.

Sit back in the beautifully designed rooms admiring the garden views, or get a closer look by heading to the large sunken outdoor seating and firepits set in the lush landscaped grounds.

With a gorgeous swimming pool, tennis courts, and bicycle rental to explore the grounds, there is plenty to do in the day. Come evening, make sure to book a table at Éremo Restaurant on-site to sample delicious, modern Italian cuisine. A perfect end to the day.

Things to see on a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast

When researching all the things you can see and do on a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast, you'll find out there are plenty of options.

To help you decide, we have put together this shortlist of some main highlights you should visit.

Pacific Highway Route:

• Palm Beach – Walk along the famous twin beaches that are used as the setting of Summer Bay in the legendary soap opera Home and Away.
• Terrigal – Swim, surf, walk or jog on Terrigal's iconic long stretch of golden sand. Enjoy fish and chips, on its fabulous esplanade whilst shaded under stately Norfolk Pines.
• Lake Macquarie – Take a dip in, or go fishing and kayaking at, the Southern Hemisphere's largest coastal saltwater lake.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Marvel at the kangaroos who swim and hop around the surf every morning at sunrise.
• Dorrigo National Park - Take a detour inland from Coffs Harbour along Waterfall Way to hike through rainforest and soak in the stunning views from the elevated walkway.
• Coffs Harbour - Have your photo taken at the iconic Big Banana. Also get up close and personal with dolphins at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park.
• Yamba – Catch epic waves. at fantastic beaches, where you might only be one of a handful of people there.
• Byron Bay – Immerse yourself in the chilled out vibes of one of Australia's most famous coastal towns. Surf at its wonderful beaches, enjoy its vibrant arts scene and fantastic cafes and bars, and be one of the first people in Australia to glimpse the sunrise at the Byron Bay Lighthouse.

New England Highway Route:

• Barrington Tops National Park - Go bushwalking, mountain biking, kayaking and abseiling at this splendid Australia World Heritage Area.
• Hunter Valley – Visit the cellar doors of some of Australia's most celebrated wineries.
• Armidale - Check out the gorgeous architecture of ‘Cathedral City'.
• Glencoe - Enjoy a pint at a traditional English old style pub called ‘The Red Lion'.
• Washpool National Park - With hiking trails of different lengths and difficulties, expect to see waterfalls, lush forest and beautiful birds.
• Nymboida River Rafting - Pick up a pre-booked tour from Grafton or Coffs Harbour to experience spectacular views of this rugged river valley from a different perspective.

Best time to go on a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast

A road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is one you can do all year round. With temperatures on the coast in winter tending to stay mild - ranging from 10 to 20 degrees - you'll probably be able to enjoy the many outdoor attractions of the Pacific Highway Route in the cooler months from June to August.

However, to really experience the beaches at their best we would recommend taking the Pacific Highway Route between February and April or September to November. With average temperatures around 25 degrees, you'll avoid the sweltering heat of the summer period, and also some of the crowds.

If you travel in the spring you might also get lucky and spot whales on their migration along the coast of NSW and Queensland.

Just be aware that many schools take breaks in early April and early October, which might make for a more crowded getaway and higher accommodation prices.

The New England Highway Route is also one we'd recommend taking in spring or autumn. With parts of the route at higher altitude, temperatures can drop close to freezing in the winter months. Whereas in spring you can enjoy seeing the route coming back to life, with wildflowers blooming along the Hunter Valley.

If you do decide to travel in the summer, try to visit the wineries of the Hunter Valley during harvest - the culmination of a year's hard work for the wine grower.

Whatever time you decide to travel, make sure your vehicle is fully roadworthy before you go. Neither of these routes take you into the most remote regions of Australia, but you still might experience some long stretches between stops that you need to be prepared for.

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Campervan Hire Sydney to Gold Coast

It’s hard to believe how COVID-19 has impacted the travel industry. With millions of Australians usually choosing to travel each year internationally, now is an excellent time to consider exploring Australia, and a campervan rental is the ideal way to do that. Not only will you still be able to practice social distancing, but you can also decide where to visit and have no actual set itinerary. 

The Gold Coast is a wonderful place to start your once-in-a-lifetime road trip. Booking a campervan or motorhome may seem challenging, and you may have many inquiries. That is why we have a reliable customer care team to assist you with your Gold Coast campervan queries to guarantee you book the best available camper.

The Gold Coast is a central tourist hub in Australia. With theme parks, beaches, and a natural hinterland to troll, you will have enough things to do. From the exhilarating Gold Coast, it is a short drive north of Brisbane, where you can experience several local attractions. Finding an excellent site to park your campervan on the Gold Coast is also easy. Whether you choose a beach ambiance or a forest backdrop, you will discover a holiday or tourist park that will suit your needs.

How Far is the Gold Coast from Sydney?

You can drive on two main routes from Sydney to the Gold Coast.

The fastest route is via the Pacific Highway, which avoids the coastline. If you love beaches, you will love this drive as it will offer you plenty of opportunities to hit the best sand and surf spots.

Generally, you can drive this route for about 9 hours of non-stop driving to complete the 845 km distance. You can leave Sydney after breakfast and reach the Gold Coast in time for dinner.

An alternative route will carry you through the stunning countryside of the New England Highway. This voyage takes about 11 hours and 15 minutes to finish the 1000 km distance.

This course should appeal to oenophiles in particular, as it will bring you through the heart of wine country. It also highlights plenty of historic towns rich in cultural significance and legacy.

The Best Route from Sydney to Gold Coast

A road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is a terrific drive that delivers gorgeous views and notable points of interest. It’s also a relatively easy drive with unmistakable signposting, excellent roads, and plenty of small towns that offer opportunities to refill your gas, take a bathroom break, or grab some food.

The Pacific Highway Route

From Sydney, the Pacific Highway will bring you to the Gold Coast, a terrific drive that allows you to visit several fantastic beach destinations. One of their most notable is Palm Beach , which you may well remember as the setting for the TV show Home & Away .

Leave Sydney on the M1, which begins just north of the Harbour Bridge, then switch onto the M2 and A28 before joining back onto the M1 – the Pacific Highway. Although the route name swaps between M1 and A1 and points along the way, you’ll follow the same road to Gold Coast.

You can take Terrigal on the way, which flaunts a fabulous vast stretch of golden beach.

A bit further north, you’ll pass Coffs Harbour , where in addition to the spectacular coastline, you can visit the Big Banana – the biggest amusement park on this stretch of coast, complete with the world’s most massive banana.

Check out the lovely coastal town of Yamba and the chilled, laid-back vibes of Byron Bay as you continue driving the Pacific Highway.

These beachside destinations will offer you plenty of opportunities to swim, surf, paddleboard, kayak, or embark on a wide range of other water sports.

The New England Highway Route

The New England Highway will carry you through the heart of The Hunter Valley .

Start departing Sydney via the M1 and A1, as with the Pacific Highway Route, as far as Seahampton , where you’ll shift onto the M15.

The M15 guides you through the Hunter Valley, where the pleasant scenery offers you views across some of Australia’s most pleasing vineyards. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop off at the wineries on this route to take a tour at their cellar doors, where you can enjoy tastings and charcuterie boards.

Take a quick detour along Lovedale Road , Wine Country Drive , and Broke Road . You’ll arrive at Pokolbin or carry on until the M15 becomes the A15 to stop at Muswellbrook . Both towns possess a range of world-class wineries, including Ivanhoe Wines , the Waverley Estate, and the Wynwood Estate .

Keep driving along the A15 past Willow Tree and reach Tamworth , home to the second-biggest country music festival in the world. Turn right onto the B56/A15 to resume driving along the New England Highway.

Where the roads detached at Bendemeer , stay on the A15 through Uralla , then arrive at Armidale . This town in the Northern Tablelands has been named ‘Cathedral City’ because of its incredible architecture.

Continuing, you will pass Glencoe , which highlights the Red Lion Tavern . This time-honoured old English-style pub is worth stopping by for a pint.

At Glen Innes , turn onto the B76 Gwydir Highway , which brings you past a series of stunning national parks. Gibraltar Range National Park and Washpool National Park are both accessible from the B76 and deliver some excellent hiking opportunities.

A trip to Nymboida National Park involves planning, but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenes if you get there.

Further along the road, a trip to Nymboida National Park lets you explore off the beaten path. Remember that a 4-wheel-drive vehicle is advised to get into the heart of this national park. For a different sort of experience, book ahead for an exciting rafting trip along the Nymboida River . You can arrange for pick up in Grafton for more uncomplicated access to the park.

As you come nearer to South Grafton, take Charles Street , then turn left to follow the B91 towards Grafton centre before shifting right at the roundabout onto Big River Way . This takes you to the Pacific Highway at Tyndale, and then you can drive through the Pacific Highway Route to Gold Coast.

Things to See Along The Way

You’ll discover plenty of options when exploring all the things you can see and do on a road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast.

To help you choose, we have gathered this shortlist of some main highlights you should visit.

Pacific Highway Route:

• Palm Beach – Walk along the renowned twin beaches used as Summer Bay’s location in the legendary soap opera Home and Away.
• Terrigal – Swim, surf, walk or jog on Terrigal’s stunning long stretch of golden sand. Enjoy fish and chips on its incredible esplanade whilst shadowed under stately Norfolk Pines .
• Lake Macquarie – Take a dip in, or go fishing and kayaking at, the Southern Hemisphere’s most extensive coastal saltwater lake.
• Crowdy Bay National Park – Be amazed at the kangaroos who swim and hop around the surf each morning at sunrise.
• Dorrigo National Park – Take a detour inland from Coffs Harbour along Waterfall Way to walk through the rainforest and soak in the spectacular views from the elevated walkway.
• Coffs Harbour – Have your photo taken at the memorable Big Banana . Also, get up close and personal, and meet the dolphins at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park .
• Yamba – Catch breathtaking waves at incredible beaches, where you might only be one of a handful of people there.
• Byron Bay – Engage yourself in the chilled-out vibes of one of Australia’s most celebrated coastal towns. Surf at its stunning beaches, enjoy its rich arts scene and fantastic cafes and bars, and be one of the first people in Australia to witness the sunrise at the Byron Bay Lighthouse .

New England Highway Route:

• Barrington Tops National Park – Go bushwalking, mountain biking, kayaking, and abseiling at this magnificent Australia World Heritage Area .
• Hunter Valley – take a tour at the cellar doors of some of Australia’s most notable wineries.
• Armidale – Check out the stunning architecture of ‘ Cathedral City ‘.
• Glencoe – Have a pint at a traditional English old-style pub called ‘ The Red Lion ‘.
• Washpool National Park – With hiking trails of different lengths and difficulties, anticipate witnessing waterfalls, lush forests, and beautiful birds.
• Nymboida River Rafting – Pick up a pre-booked tour from Grafton or Coffs Harbour to witness stunning views of this rugged river valley from a different perspective.

The Best Time to Hit The Road

A road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is one you can accomplish any time of the year. With temperatures on the coast in winter ranging from 10 to 20 degrees, you’ll probably be able to appreciate the many outdoor attractions of the Pacific Highway Route in the colder months from June to August.

However, to experience the beaches at their finest, we suggest taking the Pacific Highway Route between February and April or September to November. With average temperatures around 25 degrees, you’ll avoid the sticky heat of the summer period and also some of the masses.

If you tour in the spring, you might also get fortunate and spot whales on their migration along the coast of NSW and Queensland. Remember that many schools take breaks in early April and early October, which might cause a more crowded getaway and higher accommodation expenses.

The New England Highway Route is also one we’d suggest taking in spring or autumn. With domains of the route at higher altitudes, temperatures can fall close to freezing in the winter. You can enjoy driving the route back to life in spring, with wildflowers blooming along the Hunter Valley.

If you choose to travel in the summer, try to visit the wineries of the Hunter Valley during harvest – the completion of a year’s hard work for the wine grower.

Whatever time you choose to travel, make sure your vehicle is fully roadworthy before you go. Both of these routes carry you into the most remote regions of Australia. However, you might still encounter long stretches between stops that you must be prepared for.

Your Driving Guide to Gold Coast

Get off to a beautiful, safe start with these helpful driving tips. For numerous customers, driving a campervan rental is a brand-new experience. So whether you are an international or domestic traveller, read up and be prepared.

• In Australia, vehicles are driven on the left-hand side of the road. If you are new to this configuration, we suggest an hour to become conditioned before hitting the highways in earnest.
• Parking around the Gold Coast is mainly subject to restrictions and fees. Be aware of the road signs, read them carefully, and remember that a larger RV or motorhome may not fit in some spaces.
• 50 kilometres per hour is the speed limit in residential and commercial areas, and 100 kph is the speed limit in rural areas. Always look for speed limit signs to provide correct information.
• The traffic often slows down at peak hours around the Gold Coast and on the roads to and from Brisbane. We suggest avoiding travel during regular commute hours.
• The border between Queensland and New South Wales is directly south of the Gold Coast. Be aware that there may be some little distinctions in road rules between states: for example, tailgating is prohibited in NSW, and you must leave at least three seconds between you and the vehicle in front. In Queensland, it is not permitted to have open containers of alcohol inside the vehicle.
• If you’re driving inland into the Outback, stock up with a ton of food and water in case of a breakdown in an isolated location. And remember to keep your fuel topped up too.

Our top advice is simply this: listen carefully to the depot staff when they provide you with an orientation to the vehicle and ask any questions you can think of. They are your best resource for driving and operating your campervan rental.

How early should I book my campervan hire before travelling?

We suggest booking at least a month ahead to ensure you get your desired camper model, particularly during the Christmas season, as they tend to sell out fast. 

What is the age restriction to rent a campervan?

You must be at least 21 to rent a campervan or motorhome in the Gold Coast, but a few rental providers allow 18-year-old drivers.

What type of licence do I need to bring to drive a campervan?

You can drive a campervan on the Gold Coast with any valid driver’s licence. But if your driver’s licence needs to be written in English, you may need to carry an International Driving Permit.

Can you park your campervan hire anywhere on the Gold Coast?

Unfortunately, you can’t park your campervan hire in any part of the city. You can park your campervan in specified areas, usually tourist parks and holiday resorts.

roadtripfrom.com

Sydney To Gold Coast Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Sydney to Gold Coast road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in Australia . The 845 km of Sydney to Gold Coast drive takes around 8 hours and 51 mins without stops.

This article includes 18 top tips that turn your Sydney to Gold Coast drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

6 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Sydney To Gold Coast

On the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top six hotels on the Sydney – Gold Coast route!

1. Little National Hotel Sydney

Little National Hotel Sydney is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip. Driving from Sydney to Little National Hotel Sydney might take around 7 mins . The hotel is conveniently located for business and leisure travelers. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with a comfortable bed, good lighting, and a well-designed bathroom. The rooftop bar is excellent for cocktails and light meals. I appreciate being able to order meals via menu log or deliveroo. The staff are helpful and accommodating. Check the Little National Hotel Sydney, one of the best hotels in Sydney, New South Wales, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Forster Motor Inn

Another hotel where you can choose to stay on the road trip to Gold Coast from Sydney is Forster Motor Inn. Located in Forster, New South Wales, the hotel is 314 km away from Sydney, and it would take 3 hours and 29 mins to drive. The motel is an excellent value, with comfortable beds, clean and spacious rooms, and a fantastic staff. It allows guests to bring pet dogs and is within walking distance from shops and restaurants. If you want to learn more about the Forster Motor Inn, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .

3. City Centre Motel

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the City Centre Motel. City Centre Motel is located in Kempsey, New South Wales, it’s 837 km away from Sydney. You can arrive there in 8 hours and 36 mins of non-stop driving. The motel room was clean, with comfortable beds and well-maintained facilities. The staff at reception were warm and friendly during the check-in and check-out processes. Guest rooms offer a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. Additionally, guests can access the internet with the free wifi offered by the motel. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of City Centre Motel for more information.

4. Royal Palms Motor Inn

If you are taking the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, is must have a place you should visit. Royal Palms Motor Inn is one of the best hotels in town. It is Royal Palms Motor Inn, 537 km from Sydney, and it would take 5 hours and 36 mins to drive. The guest rooms at this hotel offer a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. The beds are comfortable, and the rooms are nicely sized, with everything guests might need, including a microwave, toaster, and kettle. The staff is helpful, and the overall experience is excellent. Prices are reasonable. If you need more info about the price and availability of Royal Palms Motor Inn, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Cape Byron Retreat

Our next hotel is Cape Byron Retreat, Byron Bay, New South Wales. It will take 8 hours, and 3 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Sydney. The hotel is located 10 minutes from the city center, where guests can find all the supplies they need or enjoy a meal out if that is their preference. The views of the hinterland offer a tranquil setting. Check the Cape Byron Retreat on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Cape Byron Retreat for reviews, prices, and availability.

6. RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast

Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel in Gold Coast, Queensland, within 8 hours and 51 mins drive from Sydney. The staff at this hotel are courteous and professional. The rooms are comfortable, and the dining experiences are all delicious. The wait staff is excellent, and there are plenty of things to do at this hotel, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .

In this part, we explained six hotels you can stay at on the road from Sydney to Gold Coast. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who take the same Sydney to Gold Coast route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Sydney to Gold Coast. We have six restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

6 Best Restaurants On The Sydney To Gold Coast Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip. This section lists the six restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. Harvest Buffet Sydney

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip with Harvest Buffet Sydney. Harvest Buffet Sydney is located in Sydney, New South Wales, and is 3.3 km from Sydney. So it would take 11 mins of driving. This restaurant is an excellent option for anyone looking for a good meal. The environment was fresh and pleasant, and the staff was always welcoming and helpful. The chicken curry and duck dishes were both tasty and reasonably priced. For more information about Harvest Buffet Sydney, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Harvest Buffet Sydney.

2. Spice Monkey Forster

Spice Monkey Forster is another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Gold Coast from Sydney. Located in Forster, New South Wales, Spice Monkey Forster is 313 km from Sydney and would take 3 hours and 28 mins to drive. The Kingfish sashimi, duck curry, and barramundi at the Forster restaurant were all excellent. The portions were generous, and the service was excellent. The staff was friendly and polite, making for a perfect dining experience. If you want to learn more about Spice Monkey Forster, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

3. The Garden Bar & Kitchen

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is The Garden Bar & Kitchen. It will take 4 hours and 34 mins of car drive to take 436 km from Sydney to The Garden Bar & Kitchen, Kempsey, New South Wales. The establishment offers a variety of wines that can be ordered by glass or bottle. The table on the covered deck had a picturesque view of the Macleay River and farmland beyond. It was a very tranquil setting for lunch. The service was friendly and prompt. The food was attractively presented and tasted great. You can check The Garden Bar & Kitchen on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information .

4. Urban Espresso Lounge

Urban Espresso Lounge deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. The coffee was excellent, and the meal was enjoyable. The Corn Fritter stack and pancakes were both delicious and well-presented. Urban Espresso Lounge is 536 km from Sydney, and it would take 5 hours and 35 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Urban Espresso Lounge, you can check it out on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

5. The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co

If you enjoy dining, The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co would be an excellent choice in Byron Bay, New South Wales. It’s 766 km from Sydney and would take 7 hours and 58 mins of car driving. The restaurant offers excellent service, with food served promptly. The oysters, steak, pork, and pasta were all cooked perfectly. The restaurant boasts a beautiful setting and pleasant ambiance. If you want to learn more about The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

6. Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant, Gold Coast

Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant, Gold Coast, Gold Coast, Queensland. It will take 9 hours and 4 mins of driving to reach Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant, Gold Coast, from Sydney. The food at the restaurant was fantastic. We had a delightful evening. The atmosphere was great. The sushi was delicious and some of our best in town. For more information about Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant, Gold Coast, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

This section lists our six restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 845 km journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Gold Coast road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Sydney to Gold Coast. Keep reading.

6 Places To Visit On The Sydney To Gold Coast Drive

A unique experience awaits you on Gold Coast. However, on your road trip, there are also some unique destinations, like Sydney and New South Wales. We want to explain the top six destinations we recommend on the Gold Coast route.

1. Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Sydney to Gold Coast road trip. Located in Sydney, New South Wales, Sydney Opera House is 1.6 km away from Sydney, and it would take 6 mins to drive. The Sydney Opera House is an iconic building in Australia and a focal point of the city. Tours of the Opera House can be scheduled ahead of time through their website. There are also some fantastic restaurants, coffee houses, and shops nearby. The Opera House is located next to a ferry terminal, which is easy to access. At night, the Opera House is illuminated with colorful projections, making it an even more beautiful sight. If you want to learn more about the Sydney Opera House, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

2. One Mile Beach

One Mile Beach, Forster, New South Wales, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop on the Sydney to Gold Coast route. It’s 212 km from Sydney, and it’ll take about 2 hours and 31 mins of driving. This beach features a long stretch of sand, a large dune at one end, and the surf club cafe at the bottom. The cafe is open on set days and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The beach is also excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. If you want to learn more about One Mile Beach, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .

3. The Slim Dusty Centre

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is Kempsey, New South Wales. And if you visit Kempsey, New South Wales, we suggest you visit The Slim Dusty Centre. You can arrive at The Slim Dusty Centre after 4 hours and 26 mins of driving. The Slim Dusty Centre, located in Kempsey, is a multi-purpose facility that includes Visitor Information, a Retail Shop, the Nulla Nulla Art Gallery, Dusty’s Dinner Camp Cafe, and the Slim Dusty Museum. The museum boasts an extensive collection of memorabilia, and the “This is your Life” show is a must-see. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of The Slim Dusty Centre for more information.

4. Dolphin Marine Conservation Park

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Dolphin Marine Conservation Park, Coffs Harbour, and New South Wales on the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip. Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is 537 km from Sydney, and you can arrive there after the 5 hours and 36 mins of drive. Visitors to the Dolphine Marine Conservation Park are in for a fantastic experience. The staff is incredibly welcoming, and guests can spend some time up close with the dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Dolphin Marine Conservation Park before going there.

5. Cape Byron Lighthouse

Located in Byron Bay, New South Wales, Cape Byron Lighthouse ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast. You must take 8 hours and 6 mins of driving to arrive at Cape Byron Lighthouse. The Cape Byron Lighthouse is located on Australia’s most easterly point and offers a shining light over Byron Bay. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk from the car park up to the lighthouse and a few small trails down the other side with good views of the coastline and lighthouse. If you want to learn more about Cape Byron Lighthouse, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

6. Sea World, Gold Coast

Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast is Sea World, Gold Coast, and Gold Coast Queensland. Sea World, Gold Coast is 851 km from Sydney, and it would take 9 hours and 2 mins to drive. If you’re looking for a fun day out, Sea World on the Gold Coast is worth a visit. There are plenty of rides and attractions to keep you entertained, and the shows are worth checking out. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the food is reasonably priced. We had a fantastic day and would recommend it to anyone looking for a fun day out. For more information about Sea World, Gold Coast, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Sydney to Gold Coast

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Sydney to Gold Coast drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Sydney To Gold Coast?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip takes approximately 8 hours and 51 mins to drive. The driving distance between Sydney and to Gold Coast is 845 km.
• If you want to make the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be one day and 22 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Sydney-Gold Coast route, you will have to walk for seven days and 2 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Sydney To Gold Coast?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Gold Coast. You can visit Sydney, New South Wales; Forster, New South Wales; Kempsey, New South Wales; Coffs Harbour, New South Wales; Byron Bay, New South Wales; Gold Coast, Queensland, on the road. Here we list six places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Sydney to Gold Coast journey, you can check the 6 Best Places To Visit On The Sydney To Gold Coast Road Trip.

• Sydney Opera House: 1.6 km / 6 mins to drive from Sydney | 844 km / 8 hours and 50 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• One Mile Beach: 212 km / 2 hours and 31 mins to drive from Sydney | 696 km / 7 hours and 17 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• The Slim Dusty Centre: 423 km / 4 hours and 26 mins to drive from Sydney | 422 km / 4 hours and 26 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Dolphin Marine Conservation Park: 537 km / 5 hours and 36 mins to drive from Sydney | 312 km / 3 hours and 18 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Cape Byron Lighthouse: 768 km / 8 hours and 6 mins to drive from Sydney | 95.6 km / 1 hour and 20 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Sea World, Gold Coast: 851 km / 9 hours and 2 mins to drive from Sydney | 9.5 km / 18 mins of driving to Gold Coast.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Sydney To Gold Coast?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. We have selected six hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 6 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Gold Coast From Sydney section.

• Little National Hotel Sydney: 1.2 km / 7 mins to drive from Sydney | 844 km / 8 hours and 50 mins to Gold Coast.
• Forster Motor Inn: 314 km / 3 hours and 29 mins to drive from Sydney | 562 km / 5 hours and 55 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• City Centre Motel: 837 km / 8 hours and 36 mins to drive from Sydney | 1,662 km / 17 hours and 1 min of driving to Gold Coast.
• Royal Palms Motor Inn: 537 km / 5 hours and 36 mins to drive from Sydney | 310 km / 3 hours and 16 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Cape Byron Retreat: 770 km / 8 hours and 3 mins to drive from Sydney | 96.3 km / 1 hour and 16 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast: 850 km / 8 hours and 51 mins to drive from Sydney | 5.5 km / 10 mins of driving to Gold Coast.

Where To Eat Between Sydney to Gold Coast?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Sydney to Gold Coast drive, you can consider the six restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 6 Best Restaurants On The Sydney To Gold Coast Road Trip .

• Harvest Buffet Sydney: 3.3 km / 11 mins to drive from Sydney | 845 km / 8 hours and 51 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Spice Monkey Forster: 313 km / 3 hours and 28 mins to drive from Sydney | 562 km / 5 hours and 57 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• The Garden Bar & Kitchen: 436 km / 4 hours and 34 mins to drive from Sydney | 411 km / 4 hours and 20 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Urban Espresso Lounge: 536 km / 5 hours and 35 mins to drive from Sydney | 312 km / 3 hours and 19 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co: 766 km / 7 hours and 58 mins to drive from Sydney | 92.3 km / 1 hour and 11 mins of driving to Gold Coast.
• Hatsuhana Japanese Restaurant, Gold Coast: 852 km / 9 hours and 4 mins to drive from Sydney | 10.5 km / 20 mins of driving to Gold Coast.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. We have listed six hotels, six restaurants, and six places to visit on the Sydney to Gold Coast drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Sydney to Gold Coast road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Gold Coast Road Trip – Travel Guide

We suggest you to check this extensive Gold Coast travel guide, before planning your road trip.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Sydney To Perth Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide
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37 Best Stops Between Sydney and the Gold Coast

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How long is the drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast?

The direct drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast is 526 mi (847 km) , and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Sydney to the Gold Coast, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Cessnock , Port Macquarie , Byron Bay , Coffs Harbour , Newcastle , Pokolbin , and Nelson Bay , as well as top places to visit like Pittwater Kayak Tours and Australian Reptile Park, or the ever-popular Palm Beach.

Top cities between Sydney and the Gold Coast

Port Macquarie

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Coffs Harbour

Best stops along sydney to the gold coast drive.

Pittwater Kayak Tours

Australian Reptile Park

Terrigal beach, the entrance town centre management, reflections norah head lighthouse, tomaree head, tacking point lighthouse.

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

Koala conservation hospital port macquarie, ricardoes tomatoes, smoky cape lighthouse, trial bay gaol, waterfall way.

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Dorrigo National Park

Dangar falls, coffs coast wildlife sanctuary, forest sky pier.

The Big Banana Fun Park

Minyon falls lookout, the farm byron bay, cape byron lighthouse cafe, cape byron walking track.

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Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre

Natural bridge, springbrook national park, kirra beach, coolangatta beach, snapper rocks, top searches in the gold coast, other popular road trips from sydney, explore nearby places.

• the Gold Coast
• Mermaid Waters
• Surfers Paradise
• Mermaid Beach
• Biggera Waters
• Burleigh Heads
• West Burleigh
• Tallebudgera
• Paradise Point
• Hope Island

All related maps of the Gold Coast

• Map of the Gold Coast
• Map of Mermaid Waters
• Map of Carrara
• Map of Broadbeach
• Map of Ashmore
• Map of Surfers Paradise
• Map of Main Beach
• Map of Mermaid Beach
• Map of Robina
• Map of Southport
• Map of Miami
• Map of Nerang
• Map of Mudgeeraba
• Map of Parkwood
• Map of Labrador
• Map of Biggera Waters
• Map of Burleigh Heads
• Map of West Burleigh
• Map of Helensvale
• Map of Coombabah
• Map of Elanora
• Map of Neranwood
• Map of Tallebudgera
• Map of Palm Beach
• Map of Bonogin
• Map of Paradise Point
• Map of Oxenford
• Map of Currumbin
• Map of Hope Island
• Map of Tugun
• Map of Bilinga

the Gold Coast throughout the year

• the Gold Coast in January
• the Gold Coast in February
• the Gold Coast in March
• the Gold Coast in April
• the Gold Coast in May
• the Gold Coast in June
• the Gold Coast in July
• the Gold Coast in August
• the Gold Coast in September
• the Gold Coast in October
• the Gold Coast in November
• the Gold Coast in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in the Gold Coast?

Get inspired for your trip to the Gold Coast with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day the Gold Coast Itinerary
• 2-Day the Gold Coast Itinerary
• 3-Day the Gold Coast Itinerary
• 4-Day the Gold Coast Itinerary
• 5-Day the Gold Coast Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from sydney to the gold coast.

Yes! You can drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast.

How far is the Gold Coast from Sydney by car?

The drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast is 526 miles (847 km).

How long does it take to drive from Sydney to the Gold Coast?

Driving from Sydney to the Gold Coast should take you 8 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Sydney to the Gold Coast?

Gas from Sydney to the Gold Coast would cost around $46 to $108 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Sydney to the Gold Coast?

You could check out Pittwater Kayak Tours and Australian Reptile Park, or the always popular Palm Beach!

What are the best cities to visit between Sydney and the Gold Coast?

People love visiting Cessnock, Port Macquarie, and Byron Bay, among others.

What's the weather like in Sydney?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Sydney in January
• Weather in Sydney in February
• Weather in Sydney in March
• Weather in Sydney in April
• Weather in Sydney in May
• Weather in Sydney in June
• Weather in Sydney in July
• Weather in Sydney in August
• Weather in Sydney in September
• Weather in Sydney in October
• Weather in Sydney in November
• Weather in Sydney in December

What are some other road trips from Sydney?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Sydney.

• Sydney to Canberra drive
• Sydney to Melbourne drive
• Sydney to the Gold Coast drive
• Sydney to Katoomba drive
• Sydney to Cessnock drive
• Sydney to Brisbane drive
• Sydney to Adelaide drive
• Sydney to Port Macquarie drive
• Sydney to Shoalhaven drive
• Sydney to Hobart drive
• Sydney to Kiama Municipality drive
• Sydney to Pokolbin drive
• Sydney to Coffs Harbour drive
• Sydney to Dubbo drive
• Sydney to Byron Bay drive
• Sydney to Mudgee drive
• Sydney to Nelson Bay drive
• Sydney to Ballarat drive
• Sydney to Cairns drive
• Sydney to Bathurst drive
• Sydney to Orange drive
• Sydney to Launceston drive
• Sydney to Newcastle drive
• Sydney to Noosa drive
• Sydney to Torquay drive
• Sydney to Greater Bendigo drive
• Sydney to Summerlands drive
• Sydney to Bowral drive
• Sydney to Cowra drive
• Sydney to Beerwah drive

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Ryan at RatPack was so helpful in helping me navigate booking a campervan in New Zealand! Very helpful, very detailed, a HUGE help! I am very much looking forward to the trip!

We had a great experience with Ben who talked us through the options available for our New Zealand trip. Campervan booked knowing all of the fees and also what to expect when we collect the van. Many thanks.

We wanted to rent a Van for our 1 month road trip in New Zealand with my girlfriend, and we found those guys. I quickly ended up on the phone with the nicest guy ever, very professional, Ben guided us through different options and in only few hours he managed to get us the Van we were looking for, in our budget, he even managed to get us a discount. Amazing job, and amazing people !

Genuinely cannot recommend this enough, George was brilliant in giving us his genuine advice and recommending us what suited our situation most, didn’t push us towards any unnecessary expenses. Had our best interest at heart and got us a brilliant deal for a camper in New Zealand. Thanks so much George!

We provide the wheels. You hit the road.

Blending freedom and flexibility with open road travel and anywhere accommodation is why campervan hire in Gold Coast is the dream roadie!

Are you planning to hit the Gold Coast roads with the comforts of a home on wheels? Our guide dives straight into campervan hire Gold Coast, equipping you with essential information like cost-friendly choices, reliable rental suppliers, and practical journey tips to ensure you’re road-ready for your coastal adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Campervan hire on the Gold Coast is designed for flexibility with options for every type of traveller; it includes a range of services such as 24/7 customer support and roadside assistance, and often offers the choice of adding a cleaning service upon return.
• Gold Coast campervan rentals cater to various budgets and travel needs, with an abundance of inclusions like unlimited mileage and kitchen equipment; plus, family-friendly amenities often feature in campervan hires.
• The Gold Coast serves as an ideal starting point for iconic road trips with a multitude of insane routes to explore; understanding local rules such as parking regulations and camping spot guidelines is crucial to a successful trip.

Unlocking the Pleasures of Gold Coast Campervan Hire

• Freedom to travel at your own pace
• Range of vans suitable for different travel needs (family vacations, couple’s getaways, surfing trips)
• Comprehensive FAQ videos to help you get to grips with camper life
• Round-the-clock customer support
• Comprehensive roadside assistance

With these services, you can have a worry-free and enjoyable campervan experience in the Gold Coast.

Buzzing for the vibe? Get in touch today .

Why book your campervan with RatPack?

So, what makes RatPack better than most campervan rental companies in Gold Coast?

Well, a few things:

We’re cheaper than booking online.

Booking doesn’t have to be gnarly. Our travel gurus get the best rates from the best operators. And once you’re satisfied, we provide a discount, making it even cheaper than booking online.

Come rain or shine, we only book you a camper van if we can make it cheaper than the online rate. That’s the RatPack guarantee!

Zero charges for date changes

As travellers ourselves, we appreciate that dates can change while you’re out doing your thing and living your best life. That’s why we don’t charge for any late cancellations or amendments, giving you more dollars to spend on the important stuff.

Personalised service

When it comes to Aus, we’ve been there and got the t-shirt. Our travel guru team comes with bags of lived travel experience. We have excellent knowledge of the best travel routes and campervan rentals in Gold Coast , making sure you strike the best deal for a once in a lifetime trip.

5-star reviews

Since launching in 2016, we’ve received more 5-star reviews than any other Aussie travel agent ! And it all comes down to our approach. We believe in going above and beyond for your trip down under.

We combine our awesome camper hire knowledge and experience with our passion to deliver an amazing experience for our clients. No exceptions.

The RatPack Promise

We know what it feels like to have a negative travel experience. It blows. In fact, it’s one of the core reasons we founded our business in the first place. The good news is we’re here to give you the best campervan hire service and deals.

Rather than trying to be the biggest at what we do, we made it our mission to become the best. It’s this philosophy that’s allowed us to make so many longstanding relationships with every reputable campervan rental and tour guide in the game.

Based on these principles with the values of backpack travel, we live and breathe campervan hire every day from our HQ in Byron Bay.

So, if you’re ever passing through, drop in and say hey. We’d love to hear about your adventures.

Your Guide to Campervan Rental Suppliers

When it comes to campervan rental suppliers on the Gold Coast, you’re spoilt for choice. Some popular brands in the industry include:

• Travellers Autobarn

& many more (providing their reputable, of course!)

These are just a few examples of the well-known camper brands in the market. Instead of checking these websites directly you are better off letting RatPack Travel do the heavy lifting!

 They make the booking process easy! You simply put in your dates HERE and they will do the hard work finding you the best deal for your campervan trip. 

Most of the conversation happens on WhatsApp making it easy to book your Gold Coast camper from wherever you are in the world.

Since launch in 2016, RatPack Travel has earned more 5-star reviews than any other Australian travel agent. 

Our secret? 

We go the extra mile to earn your review, providing unbeatable discounts, comprehensive travel advice, and a service that puts you, the traveller, first. 

With a variety of campervan rental suppliers at your fingertips, you’re sure to find the perfect vehicle for your Gold Coast adventure.

Campervan rental Gold Coast options: Which campervan will you choose?

When hiring a campervan in the Gold Coast, it’s essential to consider your budget and the size of vehicle you’ll need. The region caters to a wide range of budgets, with options ranging from basic 2-berth vans costing less than AUD$50 per day to luxury RV rentals that may cost several hundred dollars daily. So whether you’re a solo traveller seeking adventure, a couple planning a romantic getaway, or a family on a holiday to remember, there’s a campervan rental option to suit your needs and budget.

Regardless of your budget and preferences, we’ll partner you with the ideal camper that meets your requirements.

Here is a list of our classic campervan options :

The 2-seater, 2-sleeper

With a cosy bed in the back, the two-berth campervan rental is super easy and ideal for two people planning a short campervan road trip through Gold Coast.

With space to stand, cook and lounge, this three-berth beaut of a camper is perfect for two or three setting out on a long adventure. Now, that’s a bit of us.

The Motorhome

A boujee choice providing you with a new luxurious home on wheels, a six-berth motorhome rental is the best option for large groups/families regardless of exactly how much room you need or how long you expect to be on the road.

Understanding the practicalities of campervan travel forms a crucial part of your journey. Most campervan hires on the Gold Coast come with comprehensive damage cover and 24/7 roadside assistance, providing peace of mind during your travels. Before booking we’ll always let you know all insurance options as well as any potential extras you may incur on arrival. Our personalised service will help answer ALL your questions!

It’s also important to consider the various driving conditions you might encounter, such as remote outback areas, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with your campervan.

To hire and drive a campervan on the Gold Coast, you’ll need to:

• Present a valid driver’s licence that is not expired
• Your driver’s licence cannot be a probationary, learner’s, or provisional permit
• If your driver’s licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an accredited translation must accompany your valid licence from your home country.

Remember, the rules apply to everyone, not just the primary driver. Any additional drivers included on the campervan hire must present a valid licence in their name and are subject to the same conditions as the primary driver. Understanding these legalities helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free campervan hire experience.

Getting the lowdown on where to park your campervan without copping a fine is key to keeping your Aussie Roadie smooth and sweet. In Gold Coast, your home on wheels is cool to park on the streets if it’s under 7.5 metres and weighs less than a hefty 4.5 tonnes. Anything bigger, and you’re playing in the heavy vehicle league, which means different rules to follow.

Freedom camping? Heck yes, it’s a go in certain spots! Local gov websites are your treasure maps to finding those free campsite gems. But remember, parking up doesn’t mean you can kick back and camp out in any suburban street. 

Local laws are all over illegal camping like a rash, so no cheeky overnight stays in the van outside your mate’s place.

Stick to the Goldie’s rules and the Gold Coast road vibes to ensure your campervan adventure is nothing but epic. Keeping it legal means keeping it stress-free, so you can focus on the sunsets, surf, and good times. 

Just stick to parking regulations set by the Gold Coast City Council and Gold Coast road rules and you won’t get any fines!

For all your campervan hire needs and to book a ride that fits within the rules, hit us up HERE.

We’ve got the wheels to get you where you need to be – legally and in style. 

Yeeeeeeeeew!

With a campervan as your base, the Gold Coast becomes your playground. Start with a 5-day itinerary that offers a mix of beach visits, wildlife experiences, and natural exploration. Spend your first day soaking in the sun at Greenmount Beach, watching surfers at Snapper Rocks, visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and admiring the rock pools at Cougal Cascades. On the second day, venture into the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Lamington National Park and hike trails such as Morans Falls Track.

By day four, you’ll be ready to experience the natural wonders of Springbrook National Park, featuring the captivating Natural Bridge and the magical glowworm display at dusk. As you travel, remember to respect the natural environment by adhering to local fire bans or restrictions and following ‘leave no trace’ policies. This ensures these beautiful sites remain pristine for future visitors.

Do japan , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Strap in for a wicked ride as we take you on an epic Aussie Roadie from the surfy vibes of Surfers Paradise all the way down the stunning coastline. We’re talkin’ the kind of trip that’ll have your Insta feed buzzin’ for days!

• First up, hit the legendary Snapper Rocks near Greenmount Beach . Whether you’re shreddin’ the waves or just soaking up the sun, it’s a total vibe.
• Get your grub on with some delish seafood while chillin’ at the beach view at Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club . Talk about lunch goals!
• For food the Coast coast is rammed full of insane places to eat. Some of our favourites feature on this epic Urban List – check it out here.
• Wanna meet some cool Aussie wildlife? Coolangatta’s got ya covered.
• Tweed Heads offers some beaut river cruises.

For those jaw-dropping coastal views, we’ve got the insider scoop:

• Fingal Lighthouse and the Walk on Water track at Tweed Heads are just – chef’s kiss.
• Nimbin’s not just a place; it’s a whole mood with its hippie vibes and the Nimbin Candle factory. A bit of us, for sure!
• Byron Bay… need we say more? Hike to that iconic lighthouse, kayak with the dolphins, and snorkel at Julian Rocks. You could spend at least a week here!
• Catch a sunrise at Burleigh Hill

Feelin’ a more chill, nature vibe? The Gold Coast’s hinterland is your go-to. We’re talkin’:

• Lamington National Park
• Springbrook National Park  
• Tamborine National Park 
• Mount Barney National Park
• Glasshouse Mountains

Get ready for some breathtaking lookouts and lush walking trails. Don’t miss the Oceanview Track connecting Burleigh Heads National Park to Tallebudgera Creek . Perfect for a dip and a stroll.

And guess what? There are heaps of campervan-friendly spots along the way ( Use this app to find them ) We’re talkin’ places with all the perks – creek access, swimming holes, and pet-friendly options so your furry mates can join in too.

Just remember, RatPackers, we’re all about keeping Australia beaut. Stick to the rules, and let’s make sure these spots stay pristine for the next adventurers.

Ready to hit the road? We’ve got campervans that’ll make this roadie super easy and, without a doubt, unforgettable. 

Lock in your adventure with us and save some $$$ – because we’re all about getting you the best deal. Yeeeeeeeeew!

Need a camper? Hit us up at RatPack Travel – Book a Campervan and let’s get this road trip rollin’!

The Gold Coast is the perfect springboard for an iconic Australian road trip. From the Gold Coast Airport, you can embark on epic journeys that lead you through various hinterland and inland retreats, including the Gold Coast Highway. 

Destinations such as the Blackall Range on the Sunshine Coast and the Bunya Mountains near Toowoomba offer captivating drives, camping spots, and natural beauty for a peaceful getaway.

For a different kind of adventure, consider exploring the unique landscapes of Girraween National Park with its wildflowers and granite formations, or the raw natural camping experiences in Noosa National Park. Coastal road trip options from the Gold Coast include a popular journey to Sydney, where you can enjoy beaches, national parks, and coastal towns along the way.

The prime time to embark on these road trips is during the shoulder seasons between February and April or September to November, for comfortable temperatures and lighter traffic.

For a true coastal experience, the Pacific Highway is a journey to remember. The highway offers a scenic beachside route with key stops at:

• Coffs Harbour
• Port Macquarie
• Newcastle (in Aus of course) that would be quite the detour from Newcastle UK!

This coastal route is a beach lover’s dream, allowing you to experience the East Coast’s stunning views and enjoy the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean.

The Pacific Highway experience offers it all:

• Stunning scenery
• Beachside relaxation
• Wildlife encounters
• Whale watching during the winter months at Sea World

It’s a journey to remember and one that truly creates a magical Gold Coast campervan adventure.

Feeling peckish along the Gold Coast? You’re in for a treat with spots that are a bit of us :

• Little Truffle Attentive service and banging food.
• Willow Dining for Mediterranean vibes 
• Yamagen Japanese BBQ – Simply Delicious.
• La Lune – Exquisite views 

And coffee? Say no more! The Gold Coast is buzzing with wicked coffee stops to fuel your journey:

We may be biassed but these spots in Byron are INSANE > 

• Moonshine Coffee in Federal
• Espresso Head in Central Byron  
• Byron Bay General Store – A firm favourite, best place to pick up some groceries and stock that camper! 

Whether you’re craving a quick coffee hit or a chill brunch spot, the Gold Coast is buzzing with options. So, RatPackers, ready to kick off your adventure? Yeeeeeeeeew, let’s hit the road and make memories that’ll last a lifetime! Click here to get started.

Freedom camping is a fantastic way to enjoy the Gold Coast’s stunning natural environment. There are numerous freedom camp spots along the Gold Coast, providing a unique and budget-friendly adventure. Ngumbi Campground , located along the banks of Lake Wyaralong, offers activities such as hiking, canoeing, and kayaking, along with amenities like toilets, water tanks, and shelter. Or perhaps you’d prefer Hugh Muntz Park , situated between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, providing facilities such as drinking water, BBQs, a dump point, and is pet-friendly.

Other freedom camp spots include Leyburn Reserve Campground , Fassifern Reserve , and Tully Memorial Park , each offering a range of facilities and activities to enhance your camping experience. As you relish these stunning spots, it’s paramount to respect the environment by abiding by local rules and regulations. This way, these sites remain pristine and enjoyable for future visitors.

Gold Coast is full of activities ranging from exciting thrills to relaxing tours. As you’ve sorted out your campervan plans and mapped your route, you can now indulge in camper life. Just say yes… to everything. You will find you experience SO much more.

Picture this: endless beaches, secret hinterland spots, and a food scene that’ll have you saying “delish” at every turn.

This isn’t just any trip; it’s a Gold Coast roadie that’s as epic as they come.

Solo RatPackers, groups of mates, lovebirds on a quest for romance, or families looking to fill their scrapbooks with unforgettable moments, listen up! 

Hiring a campervan on the Gold Coast means you’ve got the freedom to explore at your own pace, find your perfect spot by the sea, and wake up to a new view every morning.

Why keep dreaming?

The open road is not just calling; it’s practically shouting your name!

So, what are you waiting for?

Let’s get this adventure started! Yeeeeeeeeew, let the good times roll!

Campervan hire Gold Coast: Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to hire a campervan in gold coast.

Ready to cruise Gold Coast style? Campervan hire could cost you anywhere between $60 to $300 a day. Prices are as varied as our campervans, depending on what you’re after and who you’re renting from.

What licence do I need to hire a campervan?

To get behind the wheel of a campervan, you’ll need to have a full driving licence and be at least 19 years old. Some companies only allow drivers who are over 21 so be sure to let us know your age at the time of your enquiry and we’ll send you options that suit younger drivers.

Should I hire or buy a campervan?

Thinking of hitting the road for a short-term buzz? Hiring a campervan is defo the right move.

What kind of campervan can I hire on the Gold Coast?

Whether you’re planning a family vacay, a romantic escape, or a surf trip with your mates, the Gold Coast has a campervan for every occasion. Choose your ride and get ready to explore!

You can park your camper on residential streets across the Gold Coast, as long as it fits the size and weight restrictions. But remember, freedom camping is a no-go unless you’re in a spot that’s marked for it. Keep this in mind to keep your trip smooth and hassle-free.

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11 Most Beautiful Cities In Australia To Add To Your Bucket List

• Australia offers stunning cities with a range of attractions, from beaches to wildlife and cultural scenes. It's a perfect vacation destination.
• Lesser-known cities like Wollongong offer unique experiences with beautiful landscapes, forests, and ocean views.
• Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are internationally famous for their iconic landmarks, beaches, and friendly atmosphere.

Australia is one country that continues to fascinate travelers all over the world due to what it offers. This country has got everything a person wants in a vacation, from beaches to hiking trails, rocks, wildlife, and birds. It also has some of the most beautiful cities in the world . Whether one is looking for a place to relocate to or just enjoy a vacation in a different environment, here are the most beautiful cities in Australia that should be on your bucket list.

UPDATE: 2023/08/26 18:53 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Australia Continues To Have Stunning Cities To Visit!

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding the most beautiful places to visit in Australia, as well as expanded sections currently listed. Whether someone wants to drive up the coast, stop in Sydney, see the nation's capital in Canberra, or even venture into the Northern Territory: Australia is the place to be this fall and beyond!

• This is a coastal city in Australia, just beyond Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive.
• The city is known for its port industry as well as its natural abundance.

One beautiful city in Australia is Wollongong, located along the coast outside of Sydney. Here is where trails encircle the forests and rocky cliffs of Mt. Keira in the Illawarra mountain range, giving tourists a once-in-a-lifetime view of the ocean and nearby towns/landscapes. Wollongong is one of the lesser-talked-about Australian destinations, but it's certainly worth considering for a vacation.

• Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and is known for its art scene.
• This is also where up to 250 days of sunshine come to the country yearly.

The elegant capital of Queensland is a place filled with unique attractions and a rich art and cultural scene. Up to 250 days of sunshine overwhelm this city, exposing all its natural and urban beauty. The numerous attractions of Brisbane also add to its splendor. This city is home to wildlife sanctuaries, the famous Australian Zoo, botanical gardens, and beautiful beaches where locals can always be found cooling amidst the endless sun.

• Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory.
• This is one of the closest major cities to Asia.

As the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is very close to Asia, and due to this, much of its culture is influenced by Asia, from the food to the lifestyle. In Darwin, one will find rich wildlife, lots of attractions, delicious Asian-inspired food, and plenty of aboriginal people. Being surrounded by water also means this city is a great place to sail, fish, cruise, or just enjoy a dinner by the beach while watching a beautiful sunset.

• Cairns, Australia, is surrounded by towering cliffs and white sand beaches.
• Some of the best food in the area can be found here.

Cairns comes with a beautiful natural appeal and an urban atmosphere. The city is surrounded by towering cliffs and has plenty of white sand beaches with restaurants and hotels lined up on them. While all these combine to make the city adventurous and beautiful, what makes Cairns particularly amazing is the fact that it is the gateway to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef . This makes it a place of all things adventures, from snorkeling to diving, sailing, hiking, and kayaking.

One other thing that makes Cairns so beautiful is the greenery it is overwhelmed with. Trees surround every house in this city, and the surrounding rainforest also adds to that natural appeal. It’s so green here.

• Perth is known to be one of the best cities in Western Australia.
• There is a plethora of art galleries, museums, and luxury hotels here.

Perth is a great place to witness the stunning natural appeal of Western Australia . Here, one will find an abundance of white-sand beaches and green areas where one can relax and enjoy a picnic. The architecture of Perth is also stunning, and the city has art galleries, museums, luxury hotels, and plenty of restaurants and bars.

Adventures one will enjoy in Perth range from swimming to wildlife exploration, beach hopping, and wine tasting. Being Australia’s sunniest also means one will enjoy all the exciting adventures the city has to offer in a bright and warm environment all year round.

• This is the capital of Tasmania, boasting history and natural scenery.
• There are rivers, mountains, and plenty of plants and wildlife throughout the city.

The capital of Tasmania is a city full of history and natural beauty. The city is towered by Mount Wellington, and it has a scenic river that gives it charming scenery. While the scenic river and the towering mountain are appealing, it is the abundance of trees in every part of the city that makes it so beautiful. During autumn (March to May in Australia), the leaves of these trees change into beautiful orange and yellow colors, making the city even more picturesque.

Being the second-oldest city in the country, Hobart is a place to learn about the rich history of Australia, and there are plenty of museums in the city for this. One of them is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, which is the oldest museum in the country and where one will find collections of the Royal Society of Tasmania - the oldest scientific society in Australia. Besides the historical part, Hobart also features impressive architecture, a vibrant market, botanical gardens, and many other attractions that will give visitors a memorable adventure.

• Adelaide is more natural than some of the other big cities in Australia.
• Some of the best food and wine in the entire country is found here.

Like many Australian cities, Adelaide comes with natural scenery that will stun visitors. It is also a coastal city which means there are plenty of white-sand beaches to explore. Some of the best food and wine in the country can be found here, and there are restaurants and bars on almost every corner of this city.

When it comes to things to do, Adelaide has plenty. With art galleries, vibrant markets, botanical gardens, museums, zoos, and plenty of white sand beaches all over the city, the opportunities for adventures are endless in Adelaide. The water bodies in the city are great for Kayaking and boating, and the Cobbler Creek Recreation Park is perfect for adventurers who want to enjoy some mountain hiking or hiking adventures.

• Canberra is the capital of Australia and is filled with historical attractions.
• Natural and human-made beauty fills the streets here.

Canberra - the federal capital of Australia, is a place overwhelmed with natural and architectural beauty. It’s perhaps one of the greenest cities in the world. Here, you’ll find not just trees but small forest areas in various parts of the city. A scenic waterbody also runs through the city, and a forest-carpeted mountain surrounds it as well. All these features are what make Canberra such a beauty to behold.

Besides making the city so beautiful, all those natural features also make it a haven for lots of adventures, from cruising to hiking, kayaking, hot air ballooning, and many more. In fact, just walking on the streets of this city is a memorable experience, and whether one visits in bloom or fall or winter or summer, this city stays beautiful all year round.

Related: Top 10 Restaurants In Canberra Foodies Must Visit

• Many mistake Sydney as the capital of Australia because of its popularity.
• This is considered one of the most famous cities in the world.

Sydney is so popular worldwide that many people mistake it for the capital of Australia. But despite not being the country’s capital, Sydney is arguably the most famous city in the country , and that in part is due to the country’s beauty which can be seen in its stunning beaches, its magnificent harbor, and its world-famous attractions.

Sydney is where the world-famous Sydney Opera House is located, and the city is also home to the popular Bondi Beach. The city is a haven for cruising, it has an amazing food scene, and the architecture is absolutely impressive.

Related: Melbourne Vs. Sydney: Deciding Which Australian City Is Best For You

• The Gold Coast in Australia has natural and urban beauty.
• There are miles of white sand beaches surrounding the city.

Gold Coast has something for every traveler, whether they seek relaxation, luxury, or adventures. Its incredible natural and architectural beauty makes all the activities even more exciting. Gold Coast is a paradisaic coastal city that features miles of white sand beaches, which are great for all-year surfing and relaxation. It has luxury hotels with great views , parks offering abundant wildlife and plenty of adventures, and dive spots that will satisfy every diver’s hunger.

Here, one will also find plenty of bars and restaurants offering local and international food, theme parks that are great for kids and adults, and plenty of entertainment centers. It’s fun galore here.

• Melbourne is one of the friendliest cities in the world.
• There are luxury hotels, restaurants, shops, parks, and plenty of attractions to see.

Melbourne was just named the friendliest city in the world by William Russell , and that just seems right on all levels. First, the city is incredibly beautiful; then, it has plenty of interesting attractions and friendly people who are always ready to welcome tourists. When it comes to views, Melbourne is absolutely picturesque as it features streets decorated with trees, and it also has a scenic water body that flows through it.

Melbourne is also the cultural capital of Australia, and all over the streets are various art galleries and museums where one can delve deeper into some interesting Australian history. Just taking a walk in the streets of this city is entertaining as one will get to see lots of interesting street art and also see the city’s impressive skyline and stunning architecture.

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PLEASE HELP.

Planning this for August, 28 2024 to September 13 2024. (Flexible, but this is what we've told ourselves to start planning something at least)

We're a group of 4 people (2 couples) in our early 30s.

Our interests: Adventure (Sky Diving, Scuba, Snorkeling, Catarmaran Boat), Nightlife, Nature.

We're not planning a luxury trip. Need help figuring if the places we've selected are right, or if there's places that we should definitely add/remove.

Also, what order should we do the places in?

Also, what's the best way to get from one place to the other, cuz some of the flights seem really expensive. and the cheap ones are without luggage allowance, which we most definitely need.

Also, music festivals, beer festivals, concerts, and any other activities if any would be great suggestions. We're not much into museums/architecture/etc.

We want to make the most of our time while we're there, and do everything that will be more difficult to do as we grow older.

Thank you so much in advance! :)

10 replies to this topic

Cairns - 4 or 5 nights. Scuba or snorkel the outer GBR. Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands for nature (look at doing a nocturnal tour for wildlife).

Whitsundays - sailing. This one is awkward because flights from Cairns go via Brisbane , or you can drive (around 8 hours, which means you lose a whole day of your holiday).

Gold Coast . Theme parks. Nightlife. Adventure activities such as parasailing, hot air ballooning, jet boat rides, indoor skydiving...

Sydney - 4-5 nights. So much to do here.

Melbourne - if you want to drive the Great Ocean Road , 3 days, 2 nights. If you want to add the Grampians (kangaroos, hiking, abseiling, more kangaroos), add another 2 nights. If you want to see the Penguin Parade, you need another night. Add in 2 or 3 nights for the city itself.

Hobart - if you want to do the whole of Tasmania, you need 10-14 days. For Hobart only, 2-3 nights is enough, but if you want to get out of the city eg Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula, add more time.

Here's a map to help you with context & logistics.

VISA FINDER: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder

You will need Visas. Apply now.

You would need to add around another 2 weeks to do all of that.

If the timeframe is fixed then I would suggest dropping the Whitsundays and one other loacals on (based on what your interests are and what made them appeal to you in the first place.

Start North as said as August is winter but great in the tropical North.

Australia is an expensive country, so not easy to do things on a low budget. Reef trips from cairns aren’t cheap but if you want to see the GBR and snorkel or scuba, pay the extra for a good outer reef trip. The more you move around, the more it will cost. Some of those adventure activities won’t be cheap either.

Are you relying on public transport and tours or are you willing to hire a car to explore outside of urban areas?

Australia.com and the local tourist information sites are great sources for planning a trip.

make sure you have your visas granted before booking anything.

Hey thank you so much for the detailed response. @loki

Couple of more questions. Any chance we can catch the southern lights at that time of the year? If you, as a local, had to pick to discard one or two of the locations, which one would it be? And also how much time do you recommend spending at each of those places?

Chances of seeing Southern lights is slim to none. I would not organise an itinerary around it.

Start with looking at the things to do in each of the locations you have chosen so far. Decide which are absolute musts for you and what would be nice if you had the time. That tells you how much time you need there. Repeat for the next location and so on. Remember to block out half/full day for transit every time you change location.

For example for me I would want at least 5 nights, ideally 6 in cairns. i would want to stay in port Douglas but I think for you, cairns would have more options for cheaper accomodation. There is no beach there though just mud flats. I would want a complete day for a trip to the Daintree Rainforest; another for a trip to the Outer reef; I’d also want to do Mossman Gorge , hartley’s Crocodile Adventure, Wildlikfe habitat and the cablecar & train trip to Kuranda. All that is 4 full days arguably more. I’d also like to go to Athertonn tablelands and cairns Botanical gardens and perhaps a dip in the man made lagoon. I’m now getting close to needing 6 full days which means 7 nights.

At the Gold Coast )benn 5 times) and don’t give a stuff about any of the theme parks but I did love the Outback Spectacular show. We went for the VIP version that includes drinks as well as the dinner and a tour of the stables and venue and an opportunity to speak to a couple of the riders and watch the rehearsals. I’d go out on a whale watching trip with sea world, do the HoHo boat around the Broadwater etc from Surfers paradise; maybe go to Currumbin Wildlihe park. I definitely would go to the art gallery at HOTA and if i was there on a Sunday, go to the huge and excellent Farmers market. Maybe a trip to a NP (Mt Tamborine or Springbook. I most definitely would spend at least a day in Brisbane , ideally 2 to go to GOMA, museum of Brisbane and the excellent Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary . Again my interests are different from yours but that lot probably means 4 nights in the GC plus another in Brisbane. I always try to get down to Murwillumbah too but that’s a different story.

Do not under any circumstances attempt to interact with kangaroos in the wild. It can lead to serious injury. You can however interact safely with them in sanctuaries such as Lone Pine. These places also allow you to buy the correct food for them and feed them. You can pay more for things like a photo holding a Koala or a keeper experience.

Sydney , well I love it and manage to fill a week no problem every time I go! You don’t have that much time though.

It’s up to you though, to get the best trips that best match what you like, your timeframe and budget takes a lot of time researching/ I also travel alone, so no discussions with others required!

Given your limited time you are going to have to fly between destinations. Long distance buses such as Greyhound and Murrays are a cheap option but they are very slow and time consuming. They are only worthwhile if you are going to be in Australia for at least a month or two, because you will lose entire days to bus travel.

Flying between cities is the best way. Distances are long and driving will take up too much of your visit. The low cost carriers like Jetstar allow you to take checked in baggage, but it is an extra cost.

Flying Cairns to Hamilton Island is possible, but prices tend to be eye watering and the party cruises leave from Airlie. I’d skip Whits given you are on a time and $ schedule

I’d look at Sydney , Cairns and Melbourne

Hobart is a lovely place but it really doesn’t seem to suit your travel style. It’s history and food

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• Campervan Hire Gold Coast Information

Campervan Hire Gold Coast

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Campervan hire in Brisbane

Cheapest Campervan Hire on the Gold Coast

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All our campervan, motorhome and RV rental models come with:

• A fully-equipped internal kitchen (not an outdoor kitchen off the back of the van like some campervan hire companies provide) 
• Bedding, 
• Automatic road toll payment,
• Full insurance with a low $500 excess. Compare this to other Gold Coast Campervan Hire companies who have an excess of up to $8,000 and charge extra for full insurance. 
• We don't charge daily fees for additional drivers, foreign drivers licenses and young drivers. 
• If you book directly through us, we guarantee to match any price.

Campervan Rental Models

We have six different campervan and motorhome hire models to choose from. At the budget end is our 3 person  Jade camper  (it's the  cheapest campervan hire in Australia ). For more space and a newer model we offer the Paradise  5 person campervan  with shower and toilet. See our full range of  Gold Coast campervan rentals .

Explore the Gold Coast by Campervan

‘Famous for Fun’ is the Gold Coast slogan and it applies to all ages. At the Gold Coast there is a range of campervan camping to choose from, so you can base yourself here while you visit theme parks, markets, wildlife sanctuaries, art galleries, catch some live music, get your adrenalin pumping, snorkel with marine life, or get back to nature on one of many hikes. For a complete list, visit our article, Things to do on the Gold Coast .

Things to do on the Gold Coast

• 11 things to do in Coolangatta and Tweed Heads
• 5 Gold Coast national parks
• 17 Gold Coast theme parks & adventures
• 8 Gold Coast art galleries and cultural centres
• 7 Gold Coast markets
• 8 water activities
• 7 live music venues
• 4 wildlife encounters

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Price matching : Camperman's Best Rate Guarantee policy promises that it will match the lowest publicly available price. Better service : Camperman's highly skilled and experienced staff can answer directly all your questions and give you practical tips for you travel in campervan. Accountability : When the reservation relationship is between the customer and Camperman only, it’s clean and easy because there are only two parties involved: the customer and the business without third party in the middle.

Campervan Camping Gold Coast

We have a complete list of the most highly-rated and well-located campervan friendly  Gold Coast caravan parks  in which to stay. Some are family friendly and some are quiet. Some are near the theme parks and some are right on the beach. There's a place to suit everyone.

For more information, read our article  The 7 Best Caravan Parks on the Gold Coast for Campervans

7 Gold Coast Day Trips

If you need an antidote to the liveliness of the Gold Coast, escape to the lush forested hinterland or an undeveloped sand island.

• For your forest fix, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Lamington National Park is an ancient, often misty, forest rich in wildlife.
• Springbrook National Park has stunning viewpoints across the forests and rolling hills to the ocean and city of the Gold Coast. The twin falls walk takes you behind two waterfalls and through moss covered gorges and monolithic trees. The Best of All Lookout (yep, that's it's name) is breathtaking if there are no low lying clouds. The path to the lookout has ancient gnarled trees covered in moss. The Natural Bridge walk takes in a waterfall that flows into a cave.
• The culturally rich hamlets of Tamborine Mountain are an easy day trip away on winding country lanes. The Mount Tamborine National Park has waterfalls, glow worm caves, and walks.
• For your island fix, South Stradbroke Island (or ‘South Straddie’ to her mates) can be reached by charter boat, ferry and water taxi from several departure points along the Gold Coast. On the island you will find a luxury resort, Tippler’s Café (licensed), two campgrounds, plenty of sea birds, wallabies, scrub and beaches that you’ll have all to yourself. And not a car to be seen. Or heard. The only sounds here are waves crashing on the shore, wind whistling through the spinifex, and the cry of gulls.
• Byron Bay is a short drive south where you can sip chai lattes, eat vegan rice bowls, and take in the surf and hippie vibe of the place. The lighthouse walk is beautiful and worth the effort. From the many boutiques you can grab some great looking beach gear. Not far away is the Crystal Castle Gardens, beautiful and extensive gardens with large amethyst crystals.
• Mount Warning is a volcanic peak that offers a challenging summit climb through rainforest and amazing views from the top.
• The Tweed Valley is a short drive south, adjacent to Coolangatta on the NSW border. Stand Up paddle-boarding down the Tweed River and snorkeling with sea turtles are fun things to do. For more information read our article 11 things to do in Coolangatta and Tweed Heads. We have a list of 13 excellent day trips from the Gold Coast and Brisbane . for campervan, RV and motorhome travelers

Road Trips from the Gold Coast

We've listed 10 road trips from the Gold Coast and Brisbane which take in everything from outback Australia to coastal splendor and range in duration from a week to several months to drive right around Australia.

Beyond Sydney 

• Sydney to Melbourne Coastal drive
• Sydney to Melbourne Alpine drive
• Melbourne to Adelaide Great Ocean Road drive
• The Sydney to Adelaide Outback drive

Gold Coast Local Information

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Accessibility Links

Our Aussie road trip — with two children and my wife in a wheelchair

The 550-mile drive from brisbane to sydney is an oceanside blast, but how do you keep everyone happy.

A s gentle introductions to eyebrow-raisingly bold plans go, Brisbane’s South Bank works perfectly. Step-free paths weave through themed gardens. A lift and walkway bypass the main road to the dinosaur-packed Queensland Museum. Then a mini-pavilion by the man-made Streets Beach is the ideal spot for watching the kids play in the sprawling pool — great for a jet-lagged first day in Australia. Compared to my usual experience of navigating a big city with my wife in a wheelchair, plus a nine and six-year-old buzzing around like caffeinated flies, it’s a mercifully stress-free dream.

The ambitious — some might say foolhardy — plan was to spend a fortnight road-tripping 550 miles down the east coast of Australia from Brisbane to Sydney. The logistics of any holiday with one disabled parent needing to sit down and two girls — who want to do anything but — are always tough. String together vast expanses of countryside, remote beaches and several overnight stops, and it’s even more daunting. But road-tripping in Australia is my favourite thing in the world, I wanted to share it with my family, and sometimes it’s OK to let cavalier pigheadedness win.

Our next stop, the Gold Coast, hosts a few guaranteed winners, however. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has us all holding CJ the koala and hand-feeding kangaroos (family pass from £108; currumbinsanctuary.com.au). The Australian Outback Spectacular dinner show wows with dancing horses, dazzling light shows and even a helicopter flying under the roof of the giant arena (from £43; outbackspectacular.com.au). The Warner Bros Movie World theme park has stunt driving shows for all and the giant DC Rivals HyperCoaster for our intrepid nine-year-old (from £55; movieworld.com.au).

But the Gold Coast also presents some big gambles. Most notably getting on a jetboat. Paradise Jet Boating runs high-speed jaunts along the Gold Coast’s waterways, throwing in spins, tricks and turns along the way.

It transpires that there’s no simple way of getting someone with arthritis and inflexible joints from a wheelchair into a jetboat, though. Two crew members and I manoeuvre, wrestle and blunder as my wife’s dignity is sacrificed on the altar of soft adventure.

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Once she’s finally in, however, there are no regrets. She gets to share the ride with a perma-grinning six-year-old who giggles with every stunt and coos excitedly at the wallabies spotted by the beach on South Stradbroke Island (from £25; paradisejetboating.com.au).

While marsupials can enjoy Australia’s beaches, wheelchair-users traditionally can’t. Sand is a powdery kryptonite for those who struggle to walk. But the Accessible Beaches directory (accessiblebeaches.com.au) points us towards Burleigh Heads further south on the Gold Coast, where there are encouraging signs that this is changing.

By the Mowbray Park Surf Club, a long blue mat made of recycled polyester is rolled out along the beach. This allows wheelchair users, usually confined to a lonely bench on the esplanade, to join their family on the beach.

Better still are the beach wheelchairs, available from the Surf Club on request. They come with faintly absurd, balloon-like yellow wheels that roll smoothly across the sand rather than sink into it (burleighslsc.com.au).

As a team, for once, we make our way across the sand to a natural pool that forms on the sand as the tide retreats. The girls are in their element, splashing gleefully and building elaborate spa complexes at the water’s edge. For once my wife can join them, visibly fighting back tears of joy as she puts her feet in seawater for the first time in years.

After four days we leave the Gold Coast and cross the border into New South Wales. Here the road trip begins in earnest, with bigger, child boredom threshold-testing expanses between overnight stops. Most of the way down to Sydney it’s wild, national park-backed coastline, interspersed with small beach towns. The most famous of these, Byron Bay, is as far east as you can get on the Australian mainland.

We drive up to the lighthouse at Cape Byron, taking in the town’s sweep of beaches and craggy cliffs. Below, something moves in the water.

“Dolphins!” shouts our six-year-old, clapping her hands together and bouncing with excitement.

Watching from above it’s easier to see how the pod moves as one — a synchronised rise and fall through the gentle swell. It’s mesmerising, and the first of many shared wildlife encounters over the next nine days.

We stop overnight in Ballina, where the wheelchair-friendly North Wall Walk stretches for a mile along the Richmond River. Signs by the tidal lagoon tell of the town’s timber industry past. On the breakwall separating the river from the ocean we pause to admire beady-eyed water dragons sunning themselves on the rocks. Then a sea eagle glides in to perch on a wooden post.

Further south along the coast at Emerald Beach, the walk along the Look At Me Now Headland requires more concerted wrangling of the wheelchair over the undulating stone path. The kangaroos make the extra effort worth it, though. They graze on the grassy clifftops, seemingly unperturbed as two besotted little humans sidle up next to them.

Our next base is the Reflections holiday park in Urunga, 255 miles south of Brisbane. Breakfast here on the deck outside our cabin is enlivened by a rainbow lorikeet, which flutters down on to the table, then struts around as the girls try to feed it a banana (self-catering cabins from £98; reflectionsholidayparks.com.au).

Urunga’s chief attraction is the network of rattly but accessible boardwalks that head across the lagoons and mangroves towards the mouth of the Bellinger River. The main lagoon, however, provides the magic moment. It has been turned into a giant public pool, where birds perch on the rock boundaries and — crucially — a ramp leads into the water. Gingerly my wife makes her way in to experience shoals of fish swarming around her legs. And, of course, the more dubious pleasure of being repeatedly splashed and climbed on by two rambunctious wannabe mermaids.

It is the biggest of a series of glorious ocean pools we find along the New South Wales coast. Usually cut from the rocks, and with surf crashing over the edge, these beachside pools are one of Australia’s underrated crowning glories. Serious Speedo-clad athletes power through their laps, while little ones boost their confidence, practice-swimming around the edges.

They quickly become a staple on our road trip south — a reliable source of simple, happy moments as a family, together.

Barring the odd beach stop where my wife is quite happy watching from a café, savouring flat whites or elaborate fresh juices, the rest of the journey down to Sydney is wonderfully inclusive. We meet injured (but outrageously cute) patients at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital (free; koalahospital.org.au). We cruise around Port Stephens alongside the resident dolphins (family ticket from £76; imaginecruises.com.au). We drive up to lookouts, walk or wheel along Newcastle’s coastal paths and stop for barbecues in parks.

By the time the Sydney skyline comes into view, a love of the Australian coastal lifestyle has become gradually entrenched. Aside from a half-day where we hop across the harbour on a ferry, play around a giant eel sculpture at the Australian Museum (free; australian.museum) and dine in the Sydney Tower’s revolving restaurant (buffet from £48; skyfeastsydneytower.com.au), we’re merrily content hopping between the city’s uncrowded Northern Beaches. The beach wheelchair situation here isn’t great, but the accessible ocean pools at Collaroy and Curl Curl make up for that.

There’s time for one more wheelchair-accessible walking track before leaving, though. The half-a-mile-long Fairfax walk at the North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park brings imperious harbour views, steep ocean cliffs, scuttling bandicoots and a breaching whale (free; nationalparks.nsw.gov.au). We stop to watch, wistfully wishing for more time, but newly bonded in the discovery of experiences the whole family can enjoy. David Whitley was a guest of Tourism Australia ( australia.com ). Thirteen nights’ room-only on a self-drive holiday from Brisbane to Sydney from £1,819pp, including camper van hire ( haystravel.co.uk ). Qatar Airways flies from Heathrow into Brisbane and out of Sydney

More family-friendly accommodation

The apartment-style Mantra South Bank has handy kitchenettes and a prime South Bank location (one night’s self-catering for four from £155; mantrasouthbankbrisbane.com.au).

The gleaming Solnamara Beachfront Apartments overlook Burleigh Heads beach, and come with the holy grail of washer-dryers (one night’s self-catering for four from £165; solnamara.com.au)

The central, riverside Ramada Hotel & Suites offers potential dolphin-spotting from the balcony (room-only family suites from £142; ramadaballina.com.au).

Port Stephens

At the Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort, an extraordinarily huge pool does a lap around the property (one night’s self-catering for four from £120; oakshotels.com).

With full kitchens, Quest Manly is in among the restaurants and shops of North Sydney’s buzziest beachside suburb (one night’s self-catering for four from £191; questapartments.com.au).

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Related articles

Grey nomad numbers falling in Queensland as seasoned travellers head overseas

Retired couple Greg and Dianne Osborne are hitting the road in Queensland's outback with their camper trailer despite an increasing number of Australians their age choosing to head overseas for holidays.

"We've done some lovely overseas trips in the past, but this is just Australia's time now," Ms Osborne said.

The Osbornes may be intent on exploring their own backyard but they are bucking the trend, with Queensland tourism operators reporting fewer holiday-makers to start the season.

"It's probably been a bit slow in terms of bookings so far this year," said Robert Russell, property manager at Charlotte Plains, near Cunnamulla in the state's south-west.

"It's pretty expensive to tow a caravan around the outback.

"Travel is a bit of a luxury thing and it's one of the first things to go when people cut their spending."

Charleville Bush Caravan Park owner Graham Reid said potential travellers might have been deterred by recent flooding and fears of road closures.

"Bookings for the caravan park were excellent then reality hit and it dropped off," Mr Reid said.

Heading overseas

The slow start on outback roads this season followed a drop in caravanning across the state in 2023.

Tourism Research Australia (TRA) data showed in the last quarter of 2023, there were 200,000 fewer camping and caravanning trips in Queensland compared to the previous year.

"Grey nomads, instead of going caravanning or camping, are actually going overseas," Caravan Parks Association of Queensland chief executive Michelle Weston said.

"We've seen the number of international departures for that age group matching the decline in caravan and camping trips for 2023 in Queensland."

More than 500,000 passengers departed Brisbane Airport on an overseas trip during the Easter school holidays, a third more than the previous year.

Overall, the TRA reported 2.3 million Australians aged over 55 went on overseas holidays last year, a two-fold increase on the previous year.

Attractions down on business

Outback attractions, like the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, are still waiting for the tourism season to kick off.

"We're about 20 per cent down on our visitation numbers compared to last year," chief executive Lloyd Mills said.

"The issue is that people just haven't commenced travelling this way yet.

"International flights are back and the cruise market is extremely cheap and aggressive in their marketing."

With their bookings over the winter school holidays looking full, however, there is still some hope for the rest of the season.

"Traditionally when you get a very soft start to the season you hope to God that you have a strong back end," Mr Mills said.

Caravan market holds steady

While grey nomads are expected to jet set on international tours and hop on board cruise ships, the caravan industry says there is no indication the second hand market is flooded with impulsive pandemic purchases.

"Looking at the after-sale market, we haven't witnessed that at all," Caravan Industry Association of Australia General Manager Luke Chippendale said.

Mr Chippendale said the market for new caravans was still performing well and the number of registered caravans was growing.

He said the industry had seen an uptick in young families taking longer camping trips as a more affordable option for a larger group when compared with overseas travel.

"It allows for an entire family holiday, which could include grandma and grandpa if they're going to come along as well," Mr Chippendale said.

Meanwhile, the Osbornes are continuing their travels around Queensland's south-west before they head back to Brisbane

They are planning to return with a larger vehicle that will allow them to take the camper trailer even further into the outback.

"I just think the Australian bush is beautiful," Mr Osborne said.

"We're exploring further west than we've ever been before," Mr Osborne said.

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