Imagine cruising along the coast, feeling the ocean breeze on your face, and the freedom of the open road ahead – Australia’s East Coast is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, buzzing cities, and hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time explorer, with a campervan rental, you can turn the dream of taking this iconic road tip into a reality. So, get ready to buckle up for an unforgettable ride as we dive into everything you need to know about campervan hire from Sydney to Cairns.

Sydney to Cairns One-Way Itinerary

STOP #1: Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley region is famous for its wineries and gourmet food, and it is the ideal place to spend a day indulging in wine tastings, enjoying vineyard tours, and savouring delicious local produce. Don’t miss the Hunter Valley Gardens while you’re here, which feature over 60 acres of stunning displays, or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful region.

STOP #2: Port Stephens

Known for its beautiful bays and sand dunes, Port Stephens is a great place to stop along the road and enjoy whale watching, dolphin cruises, or, for the thrill-seeker, quad biking! You can also visit the stunning Tomaree Head Summit for panoramic views or snorkel in the clear waters of Nelson Bay, and when you’re done exploring, don’t miss the chance to try some of the freshest seafood you’ll find as you make your way from Sydney to Cairns.

STOP #3: Coffs Harbour

While it may be most famous for the “Big Banana”, Coffs Harbour also offers beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and marine life to explore at the Solitary Islands Marine Park and Dorrigo National Park. For families taking this road trip, the Big Banana Fun Park offers a range of attractions, including an ice skating rink, toboggan ride, and a water park, and when you’re done exploring, the nearby Sealy Lookout offers breathtaking views of the coast from the Forest Sky Pier.

STOP #4: Byron Bay

A laid-back coastal town with a bohemian vibe, Byron Bay is perfect for surfing, yoga retreats, and stunning coastal walks. The Cape Byron Lighthouse walk offers spectacular ocean views and the chance to spot dolphins and whales, while the local markets are a great place to find unique crafts and delicious food.

STOP #5: Gold Coast

With its stunning beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife, the Gold Coast is a favourite stop for many travellers heading from Sydney to Cairns. Here, you can enjoy surfing at Surfers Paradise, or visit one of the many exciting theme parks like Dreamworld or Sea World. Or, for a more relaxed experience, head to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close with native animals.

STOP #6: Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast region is known for its pristine beaches and national parks, and is also home to the Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin. For a laidback rest stop, relax in the charming beach town of Noosa, known for its chic cafes and beautiful national park, and don’t miss the Eumundi Markets, one of the largest and most famous markets in Australia, offering a variety of arts, crafts, and local produce.

STOP #7: K’gari – Fraser Island

The largest sand island in the world, K-gari (Fraser Island) is a UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit stop for anyone heading to Cairns from Sydney. Take a day to explore its unique landscapes, including rainforests growing on sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and the famous 75 Mile Beach, or sit back and spot the wildlife here, including humpback whales and a variety of bird species.

STOP #8: Airlie Beach & The Whitsunday Islands

Gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a tropical paradise that is begging to be explored. You can take a sailing trip around the stunning islands or relax on the pristine beaches, while the town itself offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of dining and entertainment options to see you into the evening.

Stop #9: The Great Barrier Reef

A visit to the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must as you make your way from Sydney to Cairns, where you can dive into crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant coral gardens, and swim alongside exotic marine life. Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, or just soaking up the sun on a boat, the sheer beauty of this natural wonder will leave you speechless.

Top Attraction to See Whilst in Sydney

Sydney Opera House

An iconic symbol of Australia, the Sydney Opera House is a must-visit before you hit the road. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture, or catch a performance to experience its world-class acoustics. The Opera Bar is also great spot to enjoy a drink with an unparalleled view of the harbour, and is particularly stunning at sunset.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Another Australian icon, the Sydney Harbour Bridge offers breathtaking views of the city and harbour. For an unforgettable experience, climb to the top with BridgeClimb Sydney. Or, if you’d rather stay closer to the ground, walk or cycle across the bridge for amazing views and great photo opportunities.

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing day by the ocean. Enjoy a swim, take a surf lesson, or walk along the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal trail. The surrounding area also offers a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants to enjoy and refuel after a day of exploring!

Taronga Zoo

Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world and is an excellent choice for a family day out. The zoo’s setting also offers amazing views of the city skyline and the opportunity for some truly Instagram-worth photos. Don’t miss the daily animal shows and keeper talks either, where you’ll get more of an interactive experience and get up close to the animals.

The Rocks

This historic area is where Sydney began! Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore its markets, and enjoy a meal at one of its many pubs and restaurants, all while soaking in the rich history. You can also visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Sydney Observatory here if you’re looking for more of a cultural experience.

Royal Botanic Garden

A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, the Royal Botanic Garden offers beautiful gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the harbour, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Don’t miss the Calyx while you’re here, a unique horticultural display centre within the gardens and offering a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is a lively precinct packed with attractions, dining, and entertainment options. Visit the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum, or enjoy a meal with a view at one of the waterfront restaurants. Or, if you have kids that need to expend some energy, the nearby Darling Quarter is home to a fantastic playground.

Manly Beach

Take a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach and enjoy the laid-back vibe, beautiful beach, and excellent dining options. The ferry ride itself offers fantastic views of Sydney Harbour, and once you’ve arrived, you can explore the nearby Manly Sea Life Sanctuary or hike the Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk for even more amazing views across the ocean.

Why Book a Campervan Rental With Us?

Choosing Travellers Autobarn for your campervan hire means more than just renting a set of wheels; it’s an invitation to an adventure filled with convenience, savings, and peace of mind. Here are the benefits you’ll enjoy when you hit the road with our campervans.

ACCESS TO FREE CAMPSITES

One of the many perks of choosing our campervan hire in Australia is access to a network of free campsites. Imagine ending your day under a sky full of stars, tucked away in a scenic spot without having to fork out hefty accommodation fees. Our rentals connect you with various free camping spots along the east coast, making your trip not just more affordable but also more memorable.

UNLIMITED KILOMETRES WITH EACH RENTAL

When you embark on a road trip, the last thing you want to worry about is counting kilometres. That’s why we offer unlimited daily kilometres with each rental, so you can roam as far and wide as your heart desires. Whether you decide to take a detour to a hidden beach or explore a charming town, you can do so without any extra charges. This freedom ensures that your campervan adventure is all about the journey, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without any restrictions.

10% DISCOUNT WITH CAMPGROUND PARTNERS

We’ve partnered with 300 G’Day Parks across Australia, including some along the route from Sydney to Cairns, that offer you a 10% discount. This not only makes your trip more economical but also opens doors to staying in some of the best-equipped and most scenic campgrounds in Australia. But that’s not all! We help you keep costs even lower by offering a 4 cent/litre discount on petrol at participating petrol stations.

24/7 ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

No matter how carefully you plan, sometimes things can go wrong on the road. But fear not! With our 24/7 roadside assistance, help is always just a phone call away. Whether you face a flat tyre, mechanical issues, or need some advice on an alternative route to take, our dedicated team is ready to assist you any time, day or night.

FAQs

Absolutely! You can start your adventure in Cairns and travel down to Sydney. The journey offers the same incredible experiences and stunning scenery, just in reverse order, and we can still provide you with an excellent campervan from your Cairns starting point.

Depending on the state you’re in, you might need to provide both your International Driver’s Permit and your valid foreign driver’s license. Also, some states mandate that your foreign license be translated into English.

Travellers Autobarn accepts driving licenses as long as they are in the Latin/Roman alphabet. Australians are eligible to present any license starting from their Green P plates onward.

This ultimately depends on time and demand. Contact us today or use our online booking engine to discuss your trip and your needs, and we’ll provide you with an exact quote for the dates you’re planning on taking your road trip.

The drive from Sydney to Cairns typically takes around 27 hours of driving time, but it’s best enjoyed over a couple of weeks. This allows you to fully explore and appreciate the diverse attractions and scenic stops along the way.

Our Sydney branch details

Opening hours

Monday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Friday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday – 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sunday & Public Holidays – Closed

Address

1C McPherson Street
Banksmeadow, NSW 2019
Australia

Learn more about campervan hire in Sydney.

Our Cairns branch details

Opening hours

Monday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Friday – 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday – 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sunday & Public Holidays – Closed

Address

123 Bunda Street
Cairns, QLD 4870
Australia

Learn more about campervan hire in Cairns.

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