Day 1
Brisbane to Bundaberg (optional diversion to Fraser Island) – 362KM – Driving time 4 hours 30 minutes
Take some time to enjoy Brisbane’s attractions, including the City Botanic Gardens and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Then take the short trip along the Sunshine Coast, grabbing brunch with the locals and exploring Noosa’s main beach.
A 40-minute diversion from the Bruce Highway at Maryborough will take you to Hervey Bay. From here you can take a ferry to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. We’d suggest adding one or two nights here if you have the time – the rainforests and clear lakes are well worth exploring.
Day 2
Bundaberg (or Fraser Island) to Rockhampton - 318KM – Driving time 3 hours 30 minutes
Today you’ll drive to Rockhampton, the gateway to the Capricorn region.
Day 3
Rockhampton - Whitsundays - 483KM – Driving time 5 hours 30 minutes
It’s a long drive to the Whitsundays today, so we recommend taking lots of rest stops. One of our favourites is the town of Sarina, perfect for a spot of lunch and a swim.
Day 4
Whitsundays
Spend the day exploring this beautiful area. Synonymous with the Great Barrier Reef, head to Airlie Beach to enjoy fantastic reef excursions, including sailing, snorkelling, and diving. You can also check out Eungella National Park, Queensland’s largest rainforest park, where you may even spot a platypus.
Day 5
Whitsundays to Townsville - 285KM – Driving time 3 hours 30 minutes
Head to Townville, one of Queensland’s popular destinations, home to many annual events – why not check out what’s happening during your stay.
Day 6
Townsville to Cairns - 348KM – Driving time 4 hours 30 minutes
This route is known as the Great Green Way, and is home to beautiful sandy beaches, world heritage rainforests and cascading waterfalls. We’d recommend taking the detour to Australia’s highest waterfall Wallaman Falls. You could also stop for a picnic at Josephine Falls Wooroonooran National Park.
Day 7
Cairns and The Great Barrier Reef
Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and Tropical North Queensland. Choose from an array of activities, restaurants and cafes, or head to one of the lovely beaches for a rest – we like Port Douglas, Palm Cove, and Trinity Beach.
Take your rental car back to maui’s Cairns branch, or add a few days to your trip to the make the most of this beautiful area.
