Last Updated on April 29, 2024 by Sam
Australia’s East Coast is known for being an incredible road trip destination, with a mix of stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, idyllic beaches, and more! There are some unforgettable bucket list experiences to enjoy on the east coast of Australia, from seeing the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns to the famous Opera House in Sydney. With an array of well-known spots and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems, there are a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fuelled adventures, relaxing beach days, or unforgettable wildlife experiences, this region has it all. Having spent around 3 months travelling the country’s east coast, we’ve been fortunate enough to explore the area well. This comprehensive three week East Coast Australia itinerary fits all of the highlights and some hidden gems into one epic road trip from Cairns to Sydney!
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Ultimate 3 week East Coast of Australia Road Trip Itinerary
The best way to travel the East Coast of Australia is in either a camper van or motorhome, giving you the freedom and comfort of a home on wheels. There are plenty of campsites along the east coast ready to welcome you for the night, with both powered and unpowered sites available.
It may feel a little daunting driving a campervan or motorhome, but it’s much easier than it may seem. Although they are big vehicles, they’re very easy to drive – so don’t let the size put you off.
One of the huge benefits of a camper van or motorhome is that it’s your personal kitchen, with a fridge and cooking facilities – helping to keep costs low and save your budget for unique experiences on your trip! Some models even come equipped with air conditioning, so you can stay cool as you sleep!
You can find the best campervan or motorhome rental days for your Australian road trip on the Motorhome Republic website. They compare a variety of options and campervans/motorhomes to ensure you get the best price for your trip! Click here to find the best deals for your road trip on the Motorhome Republic website!
Of course, it is possible to follow this incredible three week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary by car too, but you will need to book accommodation in each stop along the way. If you’re looking to rent a car then make sure to visit the Discover Cars website to compare the best deals between a number of operators! Click here to see the best deals on the Discover Cars website!
Alternatively, VRBO have some fantastic accommodation options if you want to rent a property instead of staying at a hotel! Click here to see the amazing options on the VRBO website!
Cairns (Days 1-4)
Day 1
Start your amazing three week East Coast Australia itinerary in Cairns – the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Get your bearings which a quick walk through the CBD, which is home to numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and more.
Following this, head for the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon. This free, public saltwater lagoon is a safe swimming haven, unlike the beaches in the area which are inhabited by stingers and crocodiles.
Lay out your belongings on the grass or sand by the lagoon and take a refreshing dip. After cooling off in the water, meander along the Cairns Esplanade Boardwalk and take in the ocean views.
Next drive north for around 25 minutes to Palm Cove, a peaceful coastal village with towering palm trees lining the long sandy beach. Take a stroll along the sea to enjoy this picturesque spot, and maybe grab a bite to eat or drink at one of the nearby restaurants or bars.
From Palm Cove head to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which will take you on an incredible gondola ride up to Kuranda in the Atherton Tablelands. Along the way you will enjoy views of the Barron Gorge National Park, the impressive Barron Falls, and the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.
Tickets cost $157 AUD per person, which includes the gondola up to Kuranda and then a trip back to Cairns via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Click here to book your skysail and scenic railway tickets on the Get Your Guide website!
Once you arrive in Kuranda, take time to wander around the town – and if you’re visiting between Wednesday and Sunday then you might want to check out the Heritage Markets.
One thing you definitely don’t want to miss is the Kuranda Riverboat – a 45-minute guided nature cruise along the Barron River, with the possibility of spotting crocodiles, cassowaries, turtles, and more! At just $25 AUD per person, this trip is incredible value for what will be a highlight of your road trip along the East Coast of Australia. Book your trip now via the Kuranda Riverboat website.
If you’re taking the midday skyrail, then it’s best to take the 2.30pm riverboat trip as you should be in Kuranda in plenty of time before this trip, and it finishes just before your departure on the scenic railway back to Cairns.
Day 2
On the second day of your three week East Coast Australia itinerary, you will explore more of the beautiful Atherton Tablelands, with its wonderful waterfalls and amazing wildlife. First up is the drive from Cairns to Millaa Millaa Falls, which should take around 90 minutes.
Millaa Milla Falls is a stunning 18-metre waterfall, nestled in the middle of lush rainforest. Take the chance to swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls, which is a great way to cool off from the tropical heat!
After drying off, take a 10-minute drive to the nearby Zillie Falls. Standing at 30-metres tall, the waterfall isn’t as easily accessible as Millaa Millaa, but thankfully a viewing platform does give a reasonable view.
The path to the bottom of the Zillie Falls is steep at times, although is reasonably manageable for most of the way if you want to get a view of the falls from nearer the bottom. Either way, this lovely waterfall is a sight to behold!
Next up, head for the final waterfall of the day – the small but picturesque Eliinjaa Falls. With a height of 15 metres it’s still a lovely sight, and is another nice spot for a swim if you need to cool off! The falls are easily accessible via a paved path and stairs, and make sure to keep an eye out for turtles in the area!
Make sure to read our guide to the Cairns waterfall circuit in the Atherton Tablelands for more information on visiting these three beautiful waterfalls!
After you’ve visited all three waterfalls, it’s time to drive on to Peterson’s Creek in Yungaburra. The drive should take around 35 minutes, and once you arrive take a stroll along the creek.
This spot is a haven for wildlife, and you have the chance to see a number of rare species including tree kangaroos, platypuses, pademelons, and more! Platypus sightings are most common by the suspension bridge over the creek, so make sure to spend some time looking around there.
Wrap up your day at the Platypus Viewing Platform in Yungaburra, just a 2-minute drive from Peterson’s Creek. Sightings of these elusive creatures are fairly common here, but you will still need a bit of luck and patience.
If you don’t manage to spot one from the viewing platform, then head under the nearby bridge – as there are plenty of sightings there! After you’ve hopefully seen a platypus or two, make your way back to Cairns and unwind after another busy day!
Day 3
Your final day in Cairns takes you on a thrilling adventure to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef – so you can’t miss this opportunity to snorkel or dive into its vibrant underwater world.
When it comes to booking a day trip to the reef, there are a few things to consider – like whether you want to snorkel or dive, and where exactly you want to visit. In terms of the latter, it’s best to visit some of the more remote parts of the reef – as it will be more secluded from other tour groups.
Get Your Guide offer a brilliant day trip that includes visits to three different sites on the outer reef. Both snorkelling and diving is available on this tour, and you will have plenty of time in the water to discover the incredible reef!
We took this tour and had an amazing day, and the reef sites were very impressive – with lots of incredible coral and marine life. We managed to see several turtles, a blue spotted stingray, a green humphead parrotfish, and much more!
Prices for a snorkelling tour start from just $270 AUD per person, but expect to pay more if you want to try an introductory dive at the reef. Certified dives are also available if you are a certified diver.
Click here to book your amazing Great Barrier Reef day trip on the Get Your Guide website!
Tours last up to 8 hours, and so you will spend much of the day exploring the reef. When you finally get back to Cairns you will be fairly worn out, as snorkelling and diving can be quite tiring – but it’s certainly worth it to see this natural wonder!
Make sure to read our three day Cairns itinerary for more detail of how to spend the first three days of your East Coast Australia itinerary, as they both cover the same spots!
Click here to find the best accommodation options in Cairns on Booking.com!
Mission Beach (Days 4-5)
Day 4
Now it’s time to properly begin your 3 week Australian East Coast road trip itinerary, as you begin your journey down the coast from Cairns. Your first stop is Mission Beach, around a 2 hour drive south.
Mission Beach is a prime location for spotting one of Australia’s most unique birds – the cassowary. This endangered species is only found in the rainforests of North-East Queensland, as well as Papua New Guinea and some surrounding islands.
Growing up to 6 feet tall, cassowaries are one of the world’s largest birds, and they have a unique horn-like casque on top of their head. Mission Beach is one of the best places to spot a wild cassowary, so it’s a great place to walk through the rainforest to try and spot one!
Two of the best routes if you want to see a cassowary are the Lacey Creek Walk and the Dreaming Trail, with both paths leading through lush rainforest. Click here for more information on the best places to see cassowaries in Mission Beach!
If you are lucky enough to spot a cassowary, please keep in mind that they are wild animals and can potentially be dangerous. Always keep a safe distance, never feed them, and respect their natural habitat.
Of course you can’t visit the town of Mission Beach without actually visiting the beach. The beach stretches for 14 kilometres, and has some unique curved palm trees that make for a nice photo opportunity!
If you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for an unforgettable experience, then you can also skydive at Mission Beach. Freefall for up to 60 seconds from 15,000 feet, whilst taking in a unique birds eye perspective of Australia’s stunning east coast.
Weather permitting, you will land on Mission Beach itself after one of the most thrilling experiences of your life! Get Your Guide offer skydives from just $359 AUD per person, but make sure to book ahead to guarantee your preferred time!
Click here to book an amazing skydive on the Get Your Guide website!
It’s up to you whether you want to spend the night at Mission Beach, or continue on to Townsville. There are caravan parks and campsites suitable for campervans in both locations, and both have options if you’re looking to book accommodation too.
The advantage of continuing on to Townsville is that you will have a shorter drive the following day, but we suggest spending the night at Mission Beach and then just allowing plenty of time for the drive tomorrow.
Click here to find the best accommodation in Mission Beach on Booking.com!
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays (Days 5-7)
Day 5
Continue your epic East Coast Australia road trip itinerary down to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Airlie Beach is approximately a 6 hour drive from Mission Beach, or a 3 hour 15 minute drive from Townsville if you decided to travel further the previous day.
Along the drive, make sure to stop at the scenic Hinchinbrook Lookout which provides an incredible view of a river meandering through the rainforest, as well as mountains and Hinchinbrook Island in the background. A free car park is located just off the Bruce Highway, so it’s easily accessible – and there is space to park larger vehicles like campervans and RVs.
It’s just a short walk from the car park to the lookout point, and if you have time you can also visit the Panjoo lookout, which offers similarly wonderful views. As well as offering brilliant views, it’s a convenient place to stop to break up the drive – and you can rustle up some lunch while you’re stopped here too.
When you’re ready, continue the remainder of the way to Airlie Beach and spend the rest of the day settling in. If you have time then wander through the town and head to the Airlie Beach Lagoon for a swim. This impressive man-made lagoon is located in the centre of town and is free to use, so it’s a great place to relax and cool off from the tropical heat!
Day 6
It’s time to set sail for an unforgettable day trip to the Whitsundays. This day will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Australian East Coast road trip itinerary, as you visit stunning viewpoints and one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.
Most boats depart for the Whitsundays at around 8am, so it’s a fairly early start. Thankfully there is plenty of time to relax on deck as you take in lovely oceans view whilst you sail towards the islands.
Prepare to be mesmerised by the the view from the Hill Inlet Lookout, known for its swirling sands and stunning blue waters. Then head down to the famous Whitehaven Beach, with pure white silica sands and crystal-clear waters that will tempt you in! Without a doubt, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve ever visited.
If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot some stingrays and lemon sharks in the waters to the right of the main beach. The stingrays and sharks come right up to shore, and thankfully the sharks aren’t considered dangerous to humans – so it’s safe to be in the water with them! We were fortunate to see a number of sharks and stingrays here, and this unexpected encounter turned out to be one of the highlights of our East Coast Australia itinerary!
The easiest way to book a day trip to the Whitsundays is through Cruise Whitsundays on the Get Your Guide website, with prices starting at just $229 AUD per person. We took this exact tour and had an amazing trip, and the trip includes visits to the iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout, as well as snorkelling stop.
To top if off, this all-inclusive tour includes morning and afternoon tea, a lunch buffet and barbecue, as well as unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks during your trip! Click here to book this amazing day trip to the Whitsundays on the Get Your Guide website!
Click here to find the best places to stay in Airlie Beach on the Booking.com website!
Clairview (Days 7-8)
Day 7
Your next stop is Clairview, a tiny coastal town around a 3 hour drive from Airlie Beach. Before you leave Airlie Beach though, don’t miss the chance to take an incredible scenic flight of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef.
Flights last 60 minutes and give you a unique chance to get a birds eye view of the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. The views are simply breathtaking, and for us this was a highlight of not only our 3 week East Coast itinerary, but our entire 6 month trip in Australia!
Try to time your flight for low tide if you can by searching tide times in advance online, as both the swirling sands of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef are best viewed during low tide. One of the many highlights of these flights is the chance to see the famous Heart Reef, a stunning piece of coral that naturally formed into the shape of a heart in the pristine Hardy Reef.
Flights are surprisingly affordable, with prices starting from just $308 AUD per person. Considering you get a 60-minute flight filled with stunning natural beauty, it’s completely worth the price in our opinion – and we cannot recommend it enough!
Click here to book an amazing scenic flight on the Get Your Guide website!
After your exhilarating flight, it’s time to hit the road again to continue your East Coast road trip as you journey from Airlie Beach to Clairview. In Clairview you will need to stay in the Barracrab Caravan Park – which gives you the chance to stay right by the beach.
If you’re travelling in a campervan or motorhome then you can book an unpowered or powered site on their website, but if you’re travelling by car you will need to book one of the bungalows. Make sure to book in advance to ensure you have somewhere to stay, as there aren’t any other places to stay nearby! Click here to visit the Barracrab Caravan Park website!
The caravan park has a beachfront bar that serves food, so you can enjoy a drink or two with dinner. Make sure to take a stroll along the beach before you leave, and keep an eye out for turtles or dugongs which can sometimes be spotted from shore – and we managed to spot a number of turtles on our visit.
Try to time your walk for high tide, as during low tide the water is a long way from the beachfront. As you walk along the beach you will also see a number of mangrove trees just off shore, which help make this a picturesque spot to stay.
Hervey Bay and K’gari (Days 8-10)
Day 8
After a night in Clairview it’s time to hit the road again, as you journey on to Hervey Bay. It takes around 7 hours to drive from Clairview to Hervey Bay, so make sure to split the driving if you’re travelling with others or stop every few hours if you’re driving solo.
It’s worth having a reasonably early start so that you don’t arrive to Hervey Bay too late in the day. Once you do arrive, take the chance to stretch your legs and take a wander around the town.
An interesting spot to visit is the Urangan Pier, which stretches for 868 metres out to sea. It’s nice to walk along the pier out to sea, and you can spot fishes, stingrays, and if you’re really lucky maybe even a dugong!
After a walk, it’s best to have a relatively chilled evening after a long drive and ahead of a trip to K’gari Island the following day.
Day 9
Day nine of your three week East Coast Australia itinerary is a day trip from Hervey Bay to the island of K’gari, formerly known as Fraser Island. K’gari is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to being the largest sand island in the world, and is home to tropical rainforest, shifting sand dunes, stunning lakes, and more!
The easiest option for your day trip is to book onto a tour, which will take you to the main attractions on the island. It is possible to hire a 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) and drive around the island yourself, but we suggest only doing this if you’re experienced in driving a 4WD. Driving on the island can be tricky and dangerous, so we suggest booking a tour so that you have an experienced driver doing the hard work for you!
Different operators may offer slightly different itineraries for your trip to K’gari, but most will include the beautiful Lake McKenzie, the SS Maheno Shipwreck, 75 Mile Beach, and Eli Creek.
One of the highlights of any trip to K’gari is a visit to Lake Mckenzie, a pristine freshwater lake with unbelievably clear turquoise waters and white silica sand. Swimming in the lake’s crystal-clear water is the perfect way to cool off from the heat!
Your trip to the island will involve a drive along a stretch of 75 Mile Beach – which is used as a highway for 4 Wheel Drives to get between some of the island’s main attractions. Along the beach you will have the chance to stop for a swim in the clear waters of Eli Creek, as well as being able to visit the impressive yet eerie SS Maheno Shipwreck – the rusting remains of a ship beached during a cyclone in 1935.
As you journey around the island you will learn about what makes it so unique as the largest sand island in the world, as well as having the chance to spot wild dingoes if you’re lucky! K’gari is one of the best places to see dingoes in the wild, so fingers crossed you’ll manage to see one or two. We were fortunate enough to see four on our visit (from the safety of the bus), so you have a reasonable chance if you keep your eyes peeled!
Get Your Guide offer a brilliant 4 Wheel Drive coach tour of K’gari, which includes visits to Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, 75 Mile Beach, the Maheno Shipwreck, and more! The cost of this tour is $259 AUD per person, with lunch and return ferry transport included in the price. Click here to book an amazing day trip to K’gari on the Get Your Guide website!
Click here to find amazing accommodation options in Hervey Bay on Booking.com!
Optional Extra Day
If you have time to add an extra day to your trip, then you may want to consider a multi-day trip to K’gari/Fraser Island. This way you get to spend the night on K’gari, and it gives you two days to explore its natural beauty and the different attractions around the island.
Viator offer a 2 day guided tour to K’gari, which includes overnight accommodation, 4 Wheel Drive coach transport, return ferries, and most of your meals from $639 AUD per person. Opting for this tour means you will get to see more of K’gari, including Lake Wabby, Indian Head, and the Champagne Pools.
Click here to book a 2-day tour to K’gari on the Viator website!
Noosa Heads (Days 10-12)
Day 10
The next stop on your road trip is Noosa Heads, a small coastal town around a two hour drive south of Hervey Bay. As it’s only a short drive, you don’t need to set off too early – and if you happen to be visiting between June and October then you can take a whale watching tour from Hervey Bay before continuing your road trip.
These boat tours start at 8.30am and give you the chance to see migrating humpback whales, which are truly incredible to see in person. Tours last for four hours and cost just $135 AUD per person, which is great value for a rare chance to see these majestic animals up close and in the wild!
Unfortunately we visited Hervey Bay in May, just before the whale watching season had started so we didn’t have chance to take a tour. Thankfully we’ve been fortunate enough to see humpback whales whilst whale watching in Akureyri, Iceland – and we can safely say it’s an amazing experience that you won’t want to miss!
After a thrilling morning of whale watching, it’s time to hit the road again and undertake the two hour drive to Noosa Heads. Once you get to the town, head for a stroll down Hastings Street. This street is the heart of the town with a variety of shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and more!
If low tide falls during mid to late afternoon, then head to the amazing Fairy Pools in Noosa National Park. These natural rock pools are only accessible during low tide, and are one of the most beautiful spots to visit in the area. Click here to check tide times in Noosa.
Take the chance to swim in these picturesque pools, which have lovely views overlooking the ocean. It takes around 30-45 minutes to walk to the Fairy Pools along the Noosa National Park coastal walk, and you get some lovely views along the way!
With some luck you may even spot some dolphins, migrating whales (between June and October), or koalas as you walk through the park. Find out everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful spot with our guide to the Noosa Fairy Pools!
If low tide doesn’t happen to be in the afternoon, then it should hopefully be low tide at some point the following morning – so plan to visit the pools then instead!
Day 11
Day 11 of your East Coast Australia road trip itinerary varies depending on whether you managed to visit the Fairy Pools the previous day. If you didn’t visit them already, hopefully low tide will allow you to visit on the morning of day 11.
Alternatively, if you’ve already been to the Fairy Pools then there are two options of what to do. The first option is to have a relaxing morning on the Noosa Heads beach, where you can soak up some sun and go for a swim.
Option two is to visit Mount Coolum, which is around a 25-minute drive south of Noosa. Climb to the summit for some incredible views of the Sunshine Coast, with the walk taking around 30-45 minutes one-way.
In the afternoon you will have the chance to see some more of the area’s natural beauty, as you take a cruise through the Noosa Everglades. With only two everglade systems in the world, the other being the famous Florida Everglades, this is an opportunity not to be missed!
The Noosa Everglades are home to a variety of wildlife and birdlife, and with some luck you will have some interesting sightings during your cruise. Enjoy commentary throughout your trip, and you even get a beer or glass of sparkling wine included in the price!
Tickets can be booked through Get Your Guide for just $84 AUD per person, with trips departing at 2pm and lasting for approximately 3 hours. Click here to book a unique cruise through the Noosa Everglades on the Get Your Guide website!
Click here to find great accommodation options in Noosa on the Booking.com website!
Sunshine Coast (Days 12-13)
Day 12
Noosa is actually part of the Sunshine Coast, so you don’t need to drive too far before your next stop. There are a couple of options for how you want to spend your day discovering the Sunshine Coast – either enjoying the beautiful beaches or venturing into the hinterland.
If you fancy a more relaxing day, head to one of the beaches in Mooloolaba, Caloundra, or Currimundi. These spots are home to some of the nicest beaches in the Sunshine Coast, so you can spend your day sunbathing and having a swim in the sea.
Alternatively, if you’re up for doing something a bit more active then head into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to visit the quaint towns of Montville and Maleny, and enjoy a hike in the Kondalilla National Park.
Head to Montville first and wander through the town, visiting the various artisan shops, art gallery, and cafes. Make sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Montville to help you decide what to do while you’re there!
Next up, head to the nearby Kondalilla National Park and hike to Kondalilla Falls. It’s not too strenuous of a hike, but it does involve ascending and descending a fair distance by stairs – which can be a bit of work in the heat! Check out our guide to the Kondalilla Falls circuit hike for more information!
After a few hours of hiking it’s time to take it easier for the rest of the day, so head to Maleny to visit more independent shops and wander through this pleasant town. Don’t miss the nearby McCarthy’s Lookout, which offers some stunning views of the Glass House Mountains! Read our guide to the best things to do in Maleny for more ideas of what to do in the town!
Where you end up spending the night depends on how you’ve spent your day, but assuming you’re travelling by campervan there will be a few different options in terms of campsites. Alternatively, there are plenty of great hotels and places to stay in the area too.
Click here to see the best accommodation options in the Sunshine Coast on the Booking.com website!
Brisbane (Days 13-14)
Day 13
It should only take around 1-2 hours to drive to Brisbane from the Sunshine Coast, giving you almost a full day to explore the city. We recommend having an early start so that you can maximise your time in Brisbane.
Start your day with a visit to City Hall – one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a fine work or architecture .The highlight here is the chance to visit the Clock Tower, which offers great views of the city from above! Clock Tower tours last just 15 minutes but require advance booking – so click here to book your tour now!
Your next stop is the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, which you can walk to from City Hall in around 10 minutes. Take a walk through the gardens and enjoy this lovely green space, which is a tranquil escape from the busy city streets.
When you’ve finished up in the gardens, walk across the Goodwill Bridge into Southbank. Wander along the South Bank Grand Arbour – a kilometre long pathway with a purple bougainvillea canopy growing on steel arches. Head in the direction of the Streets Beach – a man-made beach that is free to use, and is a great place to cool off in the heat!
Next, head to the Wilson Outlook Reserve for a stunning view of the city skyline and famous Story Bridge. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy sunset if you can time it right, but it’s still a wonderful view at any time of day.
Your final stop for the day should be the vibrant Fortitude Valley. Grab some dinner at one of the many trendy restaurants, and make sure to check out the wide variety of nightlife in this inner-suburb. With everything from cocktails bars to dive bars to nightclubs, there are a plenty of great places for a drink or two!
For more detail of how to spend your time in the city, make sure to read our one day in Brisbane itinerary! There are also some great nighttime activities in the city – so check out our guide to the best things to do in Brisbane at night if you fancy some different activities to fill your evening.
If you’re travelling by campervan then stay at one of the campsites outside of the city, but if you’re looking for accommodation then make sure to read our guide to the best hotels and places to stay in Brisbane!
Bryon Bay (Days 14-16)
Day 14
The first two weeks of your East Coast Australia road trip itinerary are spent in Queensland, but on day 14 you will reach the state of New South Wales. It’s approximately a 2 hour drive from Brisbane to the famous coastal town of Byron Bay, located in the north of New South Wales. Known for its beaches, good surfing, and hippie culture, the town is one of the most popular stops on the East Coast of Australia.
Aim to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon, which gives you time to enjoy the Byron Bay lighthouse walk before sunset. This popular walk along the Cape Byron walking track begins in the town centre, and leads through rainforest and along clifftops up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.
Along the way you will get some beautiful ocean and beach views, and if you’re lucky you might even spot dolphins! If you’re visiting between June and October then you may even spot migrating humpback whales.
This 4 kilometre scenic loop is well worth the time, and is not a particularly strenuous walk – despite being steep at points. It’s well worth the effort for the lovely views, and is an ideal spot to enjoy a stunning sunset in Byron Bay.
Spend the remainder of your day taking it relatively easy, and enjoying some of the famous Byron Bay nightlife!
Day 15
Dive into the day with a breathtaking two and a half hour sea kayaking tour on the pristine waters of Byron Bay. Offering the chance to see wild dolphins and turtles, this tour is another highlight of your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary.
Enjoy beautiful views of the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse from your kayak as you paddle through the Cape Byron Marine Park. As you paddle, your guide will tell you about local history, and help to spot any wildlife nearby.
Dolphins and turtles are seen regularly on these tours, and in the whale watching season it’s even possible to see migrating humpback whales from your kayak! Of course it’s impossible to guarantee sightings of these animals, but if you don’t see any dolphins, turtles, or whales, you do have the option of another tour free of charge – which you should be able to squeeze in the following morning if need be!
Tours are easy to book online through Get Your Guide, and cost just $89 AUD per person. This price includes all the equipment, instructions from an experienced guide, wet suit hire, and free photos from your trip!
Click here to book an unforgettable sea kayaking tour on the Get Your Guide website!
Take it easy for the remainder of the day, as the kayaking can be quite tiring – but it’s worth the effort to see some incredible marine life up close! Spend the rest of the day having a wander around the town, where there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy – so take your pick for a relaxing afternoon and evening.
Click here to find the best hotels and places to stay in Byron Bay on Booking.com!
Coffs Harbour (Days 16-17)
Day 16
It’s time to hit the road again for the penultimate time on your Cairns to Sydney East Coast Australia road trip. Your destination for the day is Coffs Harbour, which is around a 2 hour 30 minute drive from Byron Bay.
Around 15 minutes before you reach Coffs Harbour, make a stop at the Moonee Beach Nature Reserve – one of the hidden gems on Australia’s East Coast. The reserve is home to the Look At Me Now Headland walk, a lovely trail by the ocean with scenic coastal views.
While the views are impressive, it’s the native wildlife that steals the show here. Get ready to meet the charismatic resident kangaroos, often found grazing or lazing in the sun, or hopping around the headland.
Seeing wild kangaroos in this beautiful setting is special, and for us was a highlight of our Australian East Coast road trip. If you’re lucky you may see the kangaroos on one of the beaches too – similar to the kangaroos at Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia.
Spend around an hour wandering along the headland walk and enjoying seeing kangaroos up close. If you want to make the walk a bit longer you can always head down to Moonee Beach itself and take a stroll along this long stretch of sandy beach.
Once you’ve finished your walk, continue driving for around 15 minutes and you will reach Coffs Harbour. Take it relatively easy for the remainder of the day as the following day involves around 6 hours of driving.
Click here to find some great accommodation options in Coffs Harbour on the Booking.com website!
Sydney (Days 17-21)
Day 17
The final drive of your three week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary is from Coffs Harbour to Sydney. It’s around a 5 and a half hour drive along the east coast, so make sure to take a few breaks to stretch your legs!
Just over half an hour into the drive you will pass Nambucca Heads, and it’s worth stopping here for a couple of wonderful lookout points. Rotary Lookout and Captain Cook Lookout provide beautiful views of swirling sands similar to that of the Whitsundays! Although it’s not long into the drive, it’s definitely a nice enough spot to justify an early break.
After visiting the lookouts, hit the road again and continue on your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary. When you do get to Sydney it may be worth returning your campervan on this day as it’s easier to explore the city and surroundings using public transport.
If you would prefer to stay at a campsite you can of course do so for the remaining days, but after a few weeks on the road it’s nice to get back to a proper bed and stay in a hotel for the last few nights of your trip.
Day 18
Spend your first full day in Sydney visiting some of the main attractions in Australia’s capital city. Prepare yourself for plenty of walking, as you discover some of the city’s most iconic spots – and from now on you will be following our four day Sydney itinerary.
Start your day with a stroll through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens, home to 30 hectares of beautiful gardens. There are several paths to walk along, but make sure to head up to the waterfront by Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to get amazing views of Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Continue along the path by the waterfront, and eventually you will arrive at the Opera House. No visit to Sydney is complete without seeing the iconic Opera House up close, so take this opportunity to walk around the outside and admire this unique work of architecture. If you need to give your legs a break then grab a drink or bite to eat at the Opera Bar before continuing your day.
Next up, take a wander through the CBD to discover more of the city. The CBD is home to a mix of towering skyscrapers, malls, shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and more! Whether you are shopping at the high-end designer stores or grabbing a cup of coffee, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
After you’ve explored the CBD, head to The Rocks – a charming neighbourhood with historic cobblestone laneways and a famous weekend market. Situated in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the neighbourhood has plenty to see as you wander around – including some great bars and restaurants with views of the Sydney Harbour.
Your next stop is Darling Harbour, a waterfront precinct home to museums, restaurants, bars, and more! It’s a great spot to enjoy a few drinks on a sunny day, as well as being a pleasant place for a stroll – if you’re not too tired out by this point!
If you still have the energy then head back to the Sydney Opera House to finish the day with drinks at the Opera Bar. The outside bar area is a lovely place to be at night, thanks to the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour!
Day 19
Start your day by heading for the world-famous Bondi Beach, known for its golden sand, blue sea, and great surf. If you fancy an early morning dip then head straight into the water, but there will be plenty of time for that later too!
When you’re ready, it’s time for the renowned Bondi to Coogee walk. Stretching for 6 kilometres, the walk offers stunning ocean views and is one of the essential things to do in Sydney!
The walk takes around 2-3 hours to complete, and involves sections along clifftops as well as via a number of brilliant beaches including Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, and Coogee Beach. There are stairs and some steep sections along the route, but it’s not too strenuous and is undoubtedly worth the effort for the brilliant views.
If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins in the sea, and between May and November you can even see migrating whales from this coastal walk! Once you reach Coogee you can either retrace your steps back to Bondi, but at that point you may prefer to give your feet a rest and take a taxi instead.
Spend the remainder of the day in Bondi, where you can pass the hours relaxing and swimming at the beach. Make sure to explore the neighbourhood too, as there are plenty of great cafes, restaurants, and bars in the area.
If you fancy a drink with a view then it’s worth heading to the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club, which you will have passed on your walk earlier. Home to a large seafront pool, there is also a bar at the Bondi Icebergs which has a wonderful view of Bondi Beach – making it the ideal place for a drink or two!
Day 20
Prepare to be amazed at the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Mountains, an easy day trip from Sydney. It’s a two hour train journey from Sydney Central Station to the charming small town of Katoomba, which acts as a gateway to this majestic mountainous region.
On arrival in Katoomba, walk through the town and head for the Echo Point Lookout – offering panoramic views of rocky cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation. It’s only a half an hour walk from Katoomba station to Echo Point, and the view is one of the best in the Blue Mountains National Park.
After you’ve soaked in this incredible view, it’s time to embark on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. This winding path leads to breathtaking viewpoints, and leads in both directions from Echo Point – so it’s up to you how much walking you want to do!
In total the Prince Henry Cliff Walk covers 7 kilometres, but if you don’t want to walk so much then simply follow the trail from Echo Point to Katoomba Falls. With a total height of 244 metres over three vertical drops, this waterfall is a truly spectacular sight!
Ideally you will be able to walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, although sometimes path closures do happen. Make sure to check the New South Wales national parks website for up to date information on any closures.
If you don’t fancy doing so much walking then you have the option for a hop-on-hop-off bus, which can be booked via Get Your Guide. Costing just $49 AUD per person, this bus takes you to some of the best spots around Katoomba for seeing the incredible Blue Mountains! Click here to book your hop-on-hop-off bus tickets on the Get Your Guide website!
There are various other walking trails, lookouts, and waterfalls to visit if you want to fill more time, but when you’re ready head back into Katoomba itself. Round off your deal with a meal and a drink in one of the town’s many restaurants, before boarding a train back to Sydney.
Day 21
After three weeks you have reached the final day of your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary. Spend your last day visiting the popular seaside suburb of Manly, a relaxing way to end your East Coast trip.
Begin by taking the iconic Manly Ferry from Circular Quay, an enjoyable boat journey that offers incredible views of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. Try to get a seat outside so that you can get some great pictures and soak in the wonderful views.
Once you reach Manly, walk along the Corso – a pedestrian friendly street that runs from nearby the ferry wharf to the impressive Manly Beach. There are a number of shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants along the Corso, so either pop in or make a note of anywhere you may want to visit later!
Manly Beach is known for its fantastic surf – and was actually home to the world’s first surfing competition in 1964. Thankfully it’s also a great beach for sunbathing and going for a swim, so take advantage of this lovely spot. The beach stretches for quite some distance, so it’s also nice to take a stroll along the beachfront promenade.
At the far end of the beach, nearby to the Queenscliff Rockpool, is the Manly Wormhole. Climb on the rocks here and you can get some lovely views of Manly Beach, and there is an opening that leads through the rocks to a small area with some lovely sea views.
Next up, take the coastal path in the direction of Shelly Beach. Once there follow the Shelly Beach walking track for some wonderful lookouts over the area, offering some picturesque spots for some final photos of your East Australia trip.
It’s up to you how you spend the last few hours of your day – either find a nice restaurant or bar in Manly, or catch the ferry back to Sydney a bit earlier and potentially back to the Opera Bar for another night drinking by the famous Opera House!
If you’re looking for more activities and things to do in Sydney, then make sure to check out the wide variety of options through Get Your Guide. Click here to find more amazing things to do in Sydney on the Get Your Guide website!
Click here to find some incredible places to stay in Sydney on the Booking.com website!
Looking to visit other places in Australia? Check out our 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary and our day trip itinerary to Rottnest Island!
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