Dreaming of white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a road trip? Then hit the Bruce Highway for a legendary road trip from Brisbane to Cairns! This iconic journey along the Queensland coast isn't just about getting from A to B – it's a sun-soaked stunning scenery, laid-back towns, and lots of wildlife. This blog brought to you by your Aussie car rental is your one-stop shop for all things Brisbane-to-Cairns: what to see, where to stay, how to travel and so much more, so let's get you prepped for an epic adventure as you explore Australia by road.
Two Routes, Two Vibes:
7-Day road trip:
Day 1: Brisbane – Noosa: Kick off your adventure with a dip in the Pacific at Noosa Heads National Park. Catch some waves or climb the snazzy Coastal Track for jaw-dropping views. There are many options at Noosa to stay at from ultra luxury resorts to Back packer heaven areas.
Day 2: Noosa – Hervey Bay: Spot whales from Hervey Bay or hop on a tour to magical Fraser Island, the world's biggest sand island. Stay at: Kingfisher Bay Resort on Fraser Island for island vibes or Mantra Hervey Bay for beautiful ocean views.
Day 3: Hervey Bay – Airlie Beach: Cruise through sugarcane fields and stop at Bundaberg for Bundaberg Rum (Obviously do no drink and drive). Airlie Beach awaits with turquoise waters and Whitsunday Island day trips. Stay at: Airlie Beach Apartments for central vibes or Coral Sea Resort for poolside paradise.
Day 4: Airlie Beach – Mission Beach: Take a dip in the Great Barrier Reef at Mission Beach – it's like swimming in a fish highway! Stay at: Castaways Resort Mission Beach for beachfront bliss or one of the many hotels and resorts.
Day 5: Mission Beach – Townsville: Dive into the Reef HQ Aquarium in Townsville, then grab a pie and watch the sunset over Magnetic Island. Stay at: The Ville Resort – Casino Townsville for glitz or Quest Townsville for apartment living.
Day 6: Townsville – Cairns: Wind through lush rainforest and stop at Babinda Boulders for a dip in a tropical waterfall. Cairns welcomes you with rainforest walks and the Kuranda Skyrail gondola. Stay at: Shangri-La Cairns for beachfront luxury or Cairns Holiday Inn for city convenience.
Day 7: Cairns: Explore the Daintree Rainforest, go white-water rafting in the Barron Gorge, or chill on Palm Cove Beach. Your Cairns adventure ends here, but the memories will last a lifetime!
Also read - Car Rental 101: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Drive mate Users
10-Day Relaxed Road Trip:
This one's for those who wanna take it slow and soak up every sun-drenched moment:
Day 1-3: Same as 7-day road trip
Day 4: Airlie Beach – Yeppoon: Explore Yeppoon's beaches, swim at Keppel Bay Islands, or take a scenic hike in Byfield National Park. Stay at: Rydges Capricorn Coast for ocean views or Mantra Yeppoon for family fun.
Day 5: Yeppoon – Rockhampton: Visit the Capricorn Caves or head out on a fishing charter. Rockhampton offers historical buildings and the must-try Beefsteak Festival. Stay at: The Heritage Quay Apartments for river views or Quest Rockhampton for modern style.
Day 6: Rockhampton – Mackay: Stop at Eungella National Park for rainforest walks and platypus spotting. Mackay charms with its Art Deco buildings and Mackay Marina. Stay at: Grand Mercure Mackay for harbour views or Mantra Mackay for a rooftop pool.
Day 7-10: Same as Speedy Sprinter
Top Tips for Top Trips:
Best Time: Spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) are ideal for warm weather and sunshine. Avoid cyclone season (November-May).
Car Rental: Don't forget about wheels! Drive mate's got a ripper selection of cars for rent, any budget, from zippy hatchbacks to spacious SUVs. Book online and pick up your trusty chariot in Brisbane – easy as pie!
Petrol Pumps: Don't get caught short in the outback! Fill up regularly, especially between major towns.
Where to Stay: We have mentioned some ace places to pitstop at, but there's a many options from fancy resorts to budget-friendly caravan parks. Check out booking sites like booking.com or Stayz for best deals and reviews.
Things to Pack: Cossies, sunscreen, a hat, a good book, and a sense of adventure, big bottles of water. Don't forget your camera – you'll be snapping pics like a pro with scenery this good.
What to Eat: Queensland's a seafood haven, so grab some fresh prawns or fish and chips on the beach. Don't be afraid to try a meat pie or a snag at a local bakery! And for that sugar hit, a scoop of mango sorbet on a hot day is pure bliss.
Road Trippin' Rules: Stick to the speed limits, watch out for wildlife (especially roos on the highway!), and be a good neighbor to other drivers. Remember, it's not a race, it's an adventure – take your time and enjoy the ride!
Beyond the Bruce: This itinerary's just a taster, there's a whole world to explore off the main road. Take a detour to Magnetic Island for a laid-back island vibe, or head inland to explore the ancient gorges of the Outback. The possibilities are endless!
Also read - Making Memorable Adventures: Road Trip Safety Essentials in Australia
Drive mate: Your Road Trip Dream Team:
Whether you're a speedy sprinter or a relaxed rambler, Drive mate's got your back. With their wide range of cars, competitive prices, and friendly service, they'll get you there in style and comfort. So, chuck your bags in the boot, crank up the tunes, and rent a car with Drive mate on your ultimate Brisbane to Cairns road trip!
Remember, mates, the memories you'll make on this journey will last a lifetime. So, get out there, explore, and make the most of this epic Aussie adventure, happy driving!
P.S. Don't forget to tag Drive mate in your pics on Facebook and Instagram using #DrivemateAu and share your Brisbane to Cairns road trip stories with the world!
