Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along Queensland’s stunning Pacific Coast, from the Gold Coast (GC) to the lush tropical wonders of Cape Tribulation. This family adventure is packed with exciting activities, breathtaking sights, and unique experiences that will leave both little and big kids with memories to cherish.
Explore at your own pace and with an East Coast car rental and enjoy the freedom of unlimited kilometres.
So, buckle up, hit the road, and let’s drive into an epic 16-day road trip from the GC to Cairns.
Day 1: Gold Coast
Kick off your adventure on the Gold Coast! With 57 kilometres of stunning beaches, it’s a holiday paradise. Once you’ve picked up your rental from our Gold Coast branch, start with the SkyPoint Climb for a 360-degree view from the top of the Q1 Building in Broadbeach. (Editor’s Tip: if you’re a bit afraid of heights, don’t worry, the view and the feeling of accomplishment are worth it. Trust us, we speak from experience!) Your guide will share interesting tips and information on the climb. After you’ve come down from the high of the climb, explore the stunning coast. Park up and stroll through shops, cafes, and parks. Head back to your room at Q1 Resort & Spa to refresh, then dine at one of the many local restaurants. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Day 2: Gold Coast and Moreton Island (approx. 1 hr drive)
Good morning! If you’re feeling brave, join the locals for a refreshing morning swim at Main Beach, just a short stroll from your accommodation. Then, we recommend visiting one of the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks. (Editor’s Tip: arrive early to beat the queues!) The ‘GC’ is affectionately known as ‘Australia’s Theme Park’ for a reason! Choose from Movie World, Sea World, Wet ‘n’ Wild, Dreamworld, or WhiteWater World. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you simply cannot miss out on a ride on Movie World’s DC Rivals. It is the fastest and tallest hypercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere! Then, jump in your rental car to drive north to catch the ferry to Moreton Island and Tangalooma Island Resort. Make sure you book your accommodation and ferry ride in advance as it can get quite busy. Check the times here.
Day 3: Moreton Island
Experience the natural beauty of Moreton Island with a Quad Bike excursion or a Banana Boat ride! There are many land and water activities to choose from. Check out the options here. (Editor’s Tip: the kids will love hand-feeding wild dolphins at Tangalooma.) Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Tourism Australia
Day 4: Moreton Island to Australia Zoo (approx. 1 ¼ hr drive)
Catch the ferry back to the mainland and head to Australia Zoo, home to over 1,200 animals (crikey!). Meet koalas, kangaroos, and be sure to catch a crocodile show and see Steve Irwin’s favourite animal in the entire world – the saltwater crocodile! Head back to your stay for the night. Take your pick from the many accommodation options here.
Day 5: Glass House Mountains
Explore the Glass House Mountains with a family-friendly bushwalk to work up an appetite! Cheese lovers will enjoy a visit to Maleny Cheese, a popular foodie destination. Or chill for the arvo with a cheeky brew and a view at Brouhaha Brewery. Then start your leisurely drive to Noosa, just over an hour away, for a night. (Editor’s tip: we like the family-friendly Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas.)
Day 6: Noosa
Spend the day in stunning Noosa, enjoying the beach, shops, and cafes. Take a bushwalk in Noosa National Park over the hill to Little Cove, a gorgeous little beach favoured by locals and tourists alike. Dine at the Noosa Surf Club (make sure you book a table!). Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Day 7: Hervey Bay (approx. 2 ½ hr drive)
Next, head to Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast. If budget allows, Hervey Bay is renowned for their whale watching tours, a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience. Alternatively, visit Reef World Aquarium, the Botanic Gardens, and take a walk along the ‘868 Urangan Pier’. As the name suggests, the pier is 868 metres long and worth a walk as many schools of fish and stingrays can be seen at the very end!
Day 8: K’gari (Fraser Island)
Today is all about adventure! Embark on a 4WD tour of K’gari, the world’s largest sand island. Enjoy pristine lakes, 8 km of sandy beaches, and the Maheno Shipwreck. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Day 9: Hervey Bay to Town of 1770 (approx. 3 hrs drive)
Head to the serene Town of 1770 (yes, that’s the town’s actual name!). Hang out with a surf lesson and enjoy a fun cruise with 1770 Larc Afternoon Cruise. You may spot kangaroos, sea eagles, dolphins, and stingrays. Stay at Lagoons 1770 Resort & Spa.
Day 10: 1770 to Rockhampton (approx. 2 ½ hrs drive)
Drive to Rockhampton and visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre to learn about Aboriginal culture. Explore the Capricorn Caves, home to an abundance of native wildlife and endangered species, and stay at one of the many options available here.
Day 11: Rockhampton to Airlie Beach (approx. 6 hr drive)
It’s a long drive, so take plenty of pit-stops along the way! To name a few: Stony Creek, the Marlborough Historical Museum, and Smalley’s Beach for a revitalising dip, where roos have been known to lounge. Take your pick of where to stay from an array of options.
Day 12: Snorkeling the Whitsundays
The Whitsundays region is renowned for its beach snorkelling and shallow waters, making it perfect for a novice or seasoned pro. For an independent, no-cost option, the locals’ secret snorkelling spot is Blue Pearl Bay. Head to the northern part of the bay to encounter the best variety and quantity of fish. For casual eats and friendly vibes, we like Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill.
Day 13: Airlie Beach to Townsville (approx. 3 ½ hrs drive)
Start the morning with your fave coffee from Sidewalk Café and grab a freshly baked scone or muffin while you’re there. Drive to Townsville, explore the Museum of Tropical Queensland, and take a pleasant stroll up Castle Hill for stunning 360-degree views. Stay at Hotel Grand Chancellor. Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Day 14: Townsville to Cairns (approx. 4 hrs drive)
Drive to Cairns, taking the time to have breaks along the way. There’s something magical about soaking underneath a breathtaking waterfall, and you can’t pass up Attie Creek Falls, located in the rainforest of the Wet Tropics World Heritage area. Stay at one of the many family-friendly options. Either enjoy in-room dining or explore the many eateries in Cairns.
Day 15: Daintree Rainforest
Explore the Daintree Rainforest. A must-do is the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest! If you’ve previously had this experience, you’re spoilt for choice with great activities. Take a cruise on the Daintree River or have breakfast where the locals go; the word is The Turtle Rock Café is a great spot for people-watching! Stay at Cape Trib Beach House, the only place on earth where two World Heritage sites meet.
Day 16: Cape Tribulation to Cairns (approx. 3 hrs drive)
Enjoy a horse ride on the beach with Cape Trib Horse Rides or a snorkel tour to the Great Barrier Reef.
Ready to start your adventure? With unlimited kms and a wide range of vehicles to choose from, East Coast Car Rentals is your perfect travel companion for exploring Queensland’s breathtaking coast. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a solo adventure, we’ve got the right hire car for you.
Check out our vehicle options here and secure your next getaway!
We encourage you to take a break from driving every 2 hours for at least 15 minutes.
Happy travels!