Best Road Trips From Brisbane

Sunny days, laid-back coastal towns, lush hinterland and some of Australia’s most iconic road-trip routes all radiate out from Brisbane. It’s a city made for hitting the road and there’s no better way to do it than by hiring a campervan and letting Queensland (and beyond) unfold at your own pace.

A campervan gives you the freedom to wake up beside the beach, linger longer in places you love, and take the scenic detours that turn a good trip into a great one. From long weekends on the coast to epic multi-week adventures, Brisbane is the perfect launchpad for road trips that balance big-name highlights with under-the-radar gems.

Below, we’ve broken down the best road trips from Brisbane by trip length – with suggested routes, key stops, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Hiring a campervan for Brisbane road trips

Road tripping out of Brisbane gives you access to some of Australia’s most diverse and road-trip-friendly regions. One day you can be cruising coastal highways toward the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay or the Gold Coast, the next you might be winding inland through hinterland towns, national parks or country wine regions. A campervan lets you travel at your own pace – wake up near the beach, stay an extra night somewhere you love, and keep accommodation costs manageable while enjoying maximum flexibility.

To hire a campervan for your Brisbane road trip, you’ll need a valid driver’s licence. If your licence isn’t in English, most international travellers will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Once you’re ready to collect your vehicle, our Brisbane branch is conveniently located for travellers arriving by air or starting their journey from the city, making it easy to hit the road and start exploring.

Why Hiring a Campervan from Brisbane is a Great Hire – Expert Advice

3 day road trips from Brisbane

Coastal Escape: Brisbane – Byron Bay

Distance: ~165 km one way
Duration: 3 days

This southward coastal drive gets you from the riverside CBD to Hemsworth country and famous surf breaks, fast. The beaches, food scene, and buzzing creative and wellness scene make Byron Bay a must on any road-tripper’s bucket list.

Highlights & stops:

• Fingal Head – Stop off in the underrated Tweed region and don’t miss this scenic coastal headland with unusual basalt rock formations and ocean views – the perfect first stop for sunrise.
• Cape Byron Lighthouse – Australia’s easternmost point with panoramic ocean views, whale watching in season and an iconic coastal walk.
• Bangalow – A charming hinterland village just inland from Byron, with rolling green hills, heritage buildings, great eats, and a slower pace.

Loving the vibe? Stretch out your trip with this Brisbane to Byron Bay in 7 Days itinerary, which also gives you time on the Gold Coast and Hinterland.

Beaches, Hinterland & Hidden Spots: Brisbane – Sunshine Coast

Distance: ~100 km one way
Duration: 2-3 days

You’ll know you’re almost there when you start spying the peaks of the Glass House Mountains alongside the highway. This classic northbound journey blends world-class beaches with hinterland magic – perfect for those who want surf breaks in the morning and scenic hikes or waterfalls by the afternoon.

Highlights & stops:

• Noosa Heads – A World Surfing Reserve and epic national park meets stylish beach village (heads up: parking can be a nightmare so park further back from the beach and take advantage of the free shuttles during holiday periods.)
• Mooloolaba – If you love the idea of fresh prawns straight from the trawler, safe swimming beaches, and river cruises, be sure to stop here.
• Glass House Mountains – These dramatic volcanic peaks offer short hikes, lookouts and picnic spots just off the highway.

Surf Meets Rainforest: Brisbane – Gold Coast & Hinterland

Distance: ~ 80 km one way
Duration: 2-3 days

The Gold Coast is famous for a reason – have you seen that skyscraper coastline?! But it’s possible to escape the theme parks and crowds and turn your road trip into a diverse loop with sun, surf and leafy hinterland adventures.

Highlights & stops:

• Burleigh Heads – Legendary surf breaks and a coastal walk with ocean views that’s perfect for morning runs or sunset hangs. A dip in Tallebudgera Creek completes the scene.
• Springbrook National Park – Hidden waterfalls, rainforest walks and epic lookouts (like Natural Bridge) that feel a world away from the beach.
• Kirra – One of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, with a laid-back feel, oceanfront walking paths and low-key spots to grab fish and chips.

5 day road trips from Brisbane

The Big Banana & Beyond: Brisbane – Coffs Harbour

Distance: ~385 km one way
Duration: 4-5 days

Whether you snap a selfie at the Big Banana or not, there’s so much more to Coffs Harbour than meets the eye – especially the string of beaches to its north and south. Seek out hidden beachside campgrounds where wallabies like to hang out, tackle a section of The Solitary Islands coastal walk, and don’t miss a meander into the hinterland.

Highlights & stops:

• Byron Bay – Chill beach town with surf breaks, markets and relaxed cafés on the way south.
• Yamba – A hidden gem with uncrowded beaches and cheap eats – perfect for a sunrise swim.
• Bellingen – A creative riverside town just inland from the coast, with great cafés and easy access to waterfalls and rainforest walks in Dorrigo National Park.

Keen for more? Check out this Brisbane to Coffs Harbour Road Trip for ideas.

Whales & Waterfront Chilling: Brisbane – Hervey Bay 

Distance: ~285 km one way
Duration: 3-5 days

Roll north to a calm, easygoing destination known for whale-watching, sunsets and relaxed beach vibes – with World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) sitting just offshore. It’s a great choice for travellers who want that coastal holiday feel without the crowds.

Highlights & stops:

• Rainbow Beach – A relaxed coastal town known for its towering coloured sand cliffs, wide surf beaches and one of the best surf clubs in the state.
• Maryborough – Historic country town with charming streets, beautiful old Queenslander homes, and coffee stops on the Mary River.
• Urangan Pier – Long jetty perfect for sunset strolls, fishing or budget-friendly beach hangs.

Wild & Wonderful NSW: Brisbane – Northern Rivers

Distance: ~500 kms
Duration: 3-5 days

Cross the border into lush valleys, indie towns and pristine North Coast beaches. Great food, markets and alternative culture give this route an off-beat flavour popular with backpackers and younger road trippers.

Highlights & stops:

• Nightcap National Park – A lush rainforest park known for swimming holes, waterfalls like Minyon Falls and quiet walking tracks, making it an easy nature escape.
• Nimbin – A famously alternative village where tie-dye is considered formalwear, the streets are lined with murals and cafés, and the smell of grass fills the air.
• Lennox Head – Beautiful coastal town with world-class surf breaks and lookout spots. Don’t miss a swim at Lake Ainsworth.

7 day road trips from Brisbane

Brisbane – Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays

Distance: ~1112 kms one way

Duration: 7 days

Slow down the race to the mesmerising turquoise waters of the Whitsundays with a journey that seeks out secret spots along the way. It’s ideal for travellers who want a mix of nature, swimming spots and relaxed beach towns.

Highlights & stops:

• Noosa Everglades – One of only two everglade systems in the world, this peaceful waterway is perfect for kayaking, camping and wildlife spotting, offering a quieter alternative to Noosa’s main beaches.
• Yeppoon – An underrated seaside spot with a free waterfront lagoon and easy day trip access to the Keppel Islands.
• Bowen – Definitely worth a stop before the final push to Airlie Beach, with gorgeous beaches – head to Grays Bay for the best sunset spot.

Check out our 16-day Brisbane to Airlie Beach Road Trip Itinerary for more ideas.

Coastal Classic: Brisbane – Sydney 

Distance: ~925 kms one way
Duration: 7-10 days

Linking two of Australia’s best cities, this coast-hugging route delivers a real taste of Aussie surf culture with still-sleepy towns sitting side-by-side with big hitters like Byron, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle. 

Highlights & stops:

• Tweed Coast – A stretch of uncrowded beaches and chilled seaside towns like Kingscliff and Cabarita with a thriving food bowl just 10 minutes from the beach. Don’t miss Husk Farm Distillery to sample their ink gin and rum.
• Port Macquarie – A classic mid-north coast stop with scenic coastal walks, quiet beaches and the chance to visit the Koala Hospital.
• Newcastle – Surf beaches, ocean baths, street art and a thriving dining scene combine in this edgy coastal city. 

This 7-day Brisbane to Sydney Road Trip has more ideas.

Gardens, Grapes & Granite Country: Brisbane → Southern Queensland Country

Distance: ~560 kms
Duration: 7 days

Swap beaches for rolling hills, wineries and hidden watering holes. This inland journey suits travellers who prefer scenic drives, affordable cellar doors and unique Aussie country towns.

Highlights & stops:

• Toowoomba – Garden City with street art, cafés and one of Queensland’s best patisseries, The Baker’s Duck.
• Stanthorpe & Granite Belt – Boutique wineries – check out the Strange Bird alternative varieties wine trail, farmers’ markets and starry night skies.
• Girraween National Park – Granite outcrops, wildflowers and quiet trails perfect for sunsets

10 day road trips from Brisbane

East Coast Icons: Brisbane – Sydney – Melbourne

Distance: ~2,020 km total
Duration: 10-12 days

This extended east coast journey is ideal for travellers who want to experience Australia’s most famous coastal cities alongside surf beaches, national parks and laid-back seaside towns. With plenty of affordable campsites, hostels and free attractions along the way, it’s a classic first long road trip from Brisbane.

Highlights & stops:

• South West Rocks – A quieter coastal alternative with beautiful beaches, coastal walks and easy access to Arakoon National Park, offering a more relaxed and less touristy overnight stop.
• Jervis Bay – Famous for its powder-white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, this laid-back region is ideal for swimming, kayaking, dolphin spotting and coastal camping.
• Eden – Stick to the coastal route and stop into this relaxed Sapphire Coast town known for dramatic headlands, coastal walks and whale watching in season.

To go via Canberra, check out this Brisbane to Melbourne Road Trip.

Tropical Queensland Road Trip: Brisbane – Cairns

Distance: ~1695 km one way
Duration: 10-14 days

This is one of Queensland’s most iconic road trips and one you’ll talk about for decades to come. Expect waterfalls, easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, laid-back beach towns and some of Australia’s best snorkelling and rainforest experiences along the way.

Highlights & stops:

• Agnes Water & Seventeen Seventy – One of the last surf beaches on Queensland’s east coast, Agnes Water is a relaxed and budget-friendly stop known for uncrowded waves, coastal walks and chilled campground vibes.
• Magnetic Island – Catch the vehicle ferry over from Townsville for an easy island escape with the chance to spot wild koalas and swim in bays framed by granite boulders.
• Daintree Rainforest – The world’s oldest tropical rainforest delivers lush walking tracks, swimming holes and wildlife encounters – keep watch for cassowary!

Discover more destinations and plan your trip with this 14-Day Brisbane to Cairns Itinerary.

14-day+ road trips from Brisbane

Southern States Explorer: Brisbane – Adelaide

Distance: ~2,600 km
Duration: 10-14 days

This lesser-chosen but rewarding route takes you through inland NSW and Victoria before reaching South Australia. It’s perfect for travellers looking to escape the east coast and explore regional towns and food-and-wine experiences.

Highlights & stops:

• Broken Hill – A classic outback town with heritage streets, art galleries and dramatic desert landscapes.
• Grampians National Park – A budget-friendly nature stop with waterfalls, scenic hikes and wildlife spotting.
• Adelaide Hills – Finish in South Australia’s wine region with easy day trips, free tastings and scenic campsites.

For an alternative route, check out this 14-day Brisbane to Adelaide road trip.

Outback & Top End Adventure: Brisbane – Darwin

Distance: ~3,400+ km
Duration: 21-23 days

Set off on an epic northbound journey from Brisbane through Queensland’s vast outback to the tropical Top End. This route blends dusty plains, quirky towns and thermal springs with the lush landscapes and wildlife of the Northern Territory. It’s perfect for travellers who want a true Aussie road trip with a huge sense of discovery and plenty of “wow” moments. 

Highlights & stops:

• Toowoomba & Darling Downs – An inviting first leg with rolling farmland, roadside cafés and botanical gardens to explore.
• Longreach & Outback Queensland – Stargazing, outback pubs and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame make this a classic inland stop.
• Katherine & Nitmiluk Gorge – Cool off with waterfalls and spectacular gorge cruises near one of the Northern Territory’s most scenic river towns.

Dig into more detail with this Brisbane to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary.

Outback Adventure Loop: Brisbane – Uluru

Distance: ~3465 kms
Duration: 21-23 days

This iconic Australian road trip takes you deep into the country’s red centre, offering wide-open landscapes, historic towns and unforgettable night skies. While long, the route follows sealed highways and rewards travellers with one-of-a-kind scenery and cultural experiences.

Highlights & stops:

• Longreach – Learn about Australia’s outback heritage at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and enjoy sunset river cruises.
• Alice Springs – A central base for exploring desert landscapes, gorges and First Nations cultural sites.
• Uluru & Kata Tjuta – Watch the rock change colour at sunrise and sunset and walk through sacred desert landscapes.

Map out your adventure with this 14-Day Brisbane to Uluru Road Trip itinerary.

Transcontinental Road Trip: Brisbane – Perth

Distance: ~5700 km
Duration: 28-30 days

For travellers chasing the ultimate long-haul adventure, this cross-country journey delivers dramatic landscapes, coastal cliffs and remote roadhouse culture – all via sealed highways. It’s perfect for those with time, flexibility and a serious sense of adventure.

Highlights & stops:

• Great Ocean Road – One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, with iconic cliffs and surf beaches.
• Nullarbor Plain – A bucket-list stretch of road featuring vast horizons, starry skies and legendary roadhouses.
• Margaret River – Finish with world-class beaches, wineries and forest campsites in Western Australia.

Tips for international travellers

Drive on the left: In Australia, we drive on the left-hand side – take time to adjust before busy highways.

Plan fuel and breaks: Distances can be long between towns, so plan your fuel stops and snacks ahead.

National parks and passes: Some parks require entry fees – check permits before you go.

Weather and seasons: The tropical north can be wet in summer, while southern regions are best between autumn–spring.

Free camping: Apps like WikiCamps help you find budget-friendly or free campgrounds.