Road Trip Cairns - Brisbane: Complete Guide

Australia is a perfect country for a road trip, and the east coast between Cairns and Brisbane is one of the most spectacular routes. Whether you have 7, 10, or 14 days, here is a detailed guide with distances, must-visit spots, fuel costs, and accommodation recommendations.

Distance and Duration

• Total distance: Approximately 1,700 km
• Total driving time: 19 to 20 hours (without stops)
• Best season: From May to October (dry season)

This trip offers a mix of tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities, making it an unforgettable adventure.Suggested Itineraries

7 Days: The Essential Highlights Tour

• Day 1: Cairns - Mission Beach (140 km, 2h)
  Must-see: The Great Barrier Reef, Rusty’s Market in Cairns, and the stunning waterfalls at Babinda Boulders.
  Accommodation: Jackaroo Treehouse Hostel (budget) / Eco Village Mission Beach (comfort)

• Day 2: Mission Beach - Townsville (235 km, 3h)
  Must-see: Snorkeling and diving at Magnetic Island, a scenic hike to Castle Hill lookout.Accommodation: Rambutan Resort (budget) / The Ville Resort (luxury)

• Day 3: Townsville - Airlie Beach (275 km, 3h30)
  Must-see: Relax on stunning beaches and take a sailing tour to the Whitsundays.Accommodation: Nomads Airlie Beach (budget) / Coral Sea Resort (comfort)

• Day 4: Airlie Beach - Cape Hillsborough (110 km, 1h30)
  Must-see: Watch kangaroos and wallabies at sunrise on the beach.Accommodation: Cape Hillsborough Nature Resort

• Day 5: Cape Hillsborough - Agnes Water (620 km, 7h30)
  Must-see: Try surfing on beginner-friendly waves and enjoy pristine beaches.Accommodation: Cool Bananas Hostel (budget) / Lagoons 1770 Resort (comfort)

• Day 6: Agnes Water - Noosa (370 km, 4h30)
  Must-see: Explore Noosa National Park, walk to Laguna Lookout for an amazing view.Accommodation: Nomads Noosa (budget) / Sofitel Noosa (luxury)

• Day 7: Noosa - Brisbane (140 km, 2h)
  Must-see: Discover the Sunshine Coast and the stunning Glass House Mountains before arriving in Brisbane.

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10 Days: A Balanced Road Trip Between Nature and RelaxationExtend your journey with these stops:

• Day 3-4: Airlie Beach & Whitsundays (Spend two full days exploring the incredible islands and beaches)
• Day 6-7: Yeppoon & Great Keppel Island (Enjoy secluded beaches and snorkeling)
• Day 8: Bundaberg (Visit the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery and see turtle hatchings)
• Day 9: Fraser Island (Take a 4x4 adventure on the largest sand island in the world)

14 Days: A Deep Dive into the East CoastFor those with more time, add:

• Day 3: Mission Beach - Paluma Range National Park (Hike through waterfalls and lush forests)
• Day 6: Bowen (Discover peaceful beaches and snorkel at Horseshoe Bay)
• Day 8-9: Rockhampton & Capricorn Caves (Explore underground limestone caves)
• Day 10-11: Hervey Bay (Join a whale-watching cruise)
• Day 12: Glass House Mountains (Hike up Mount Beerwah for a breathtaking view)
• Day 13: Brisbane & Moreton Island (Snorkel around the Tangalooma shipwrecks)
• Day 14: Brisbane & South Bank (Experience the cultural and culinary side of Brisbane)

Estimated BudgetFuel Costs

• Average fuel consumption: 8L/100km
• Fuel price per liter: 2 AUD (varies)
• Total cost: Around 250 to 350 AUD, depending on the vehicle

Accommodation

• Hostels & Campsites: 30-70 AUD/night
• Mid-range hotels: 100-180 AUD/night
• Lodges & Resorts: 200-400 AUD/night

Other Expenses

• Car or van rental: 50-120 AUD/day
• Tours & activities (Whitsundays, Fraser Island, diving, etc.): 150-250 AUD
• Food & drinks: 10-20 AUD per meal

Practical Tips

• Download Wikicamps to find free or budget-friendly campsites.
• Consider a boat license if you want to explore the Whitsundays independently.
• Avoid driving at night due to the high risk of encountering wildlife on the road.

This road trip is a mix of stunning landscapes, white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, and vibrant cities. No matter how long you choose to travel, the experience will be unforgettable! 🚐🌏For more tips and to connect with fellow travelers, join the Rideshare & Carpooling Australia Facebook group and check out Rooride for affordable ridesharing options across the country!

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