25-Day Coastal Road Trip in Australia

Morning: Your Australia coast road trip begins with a few hours in Melbourne, Australia’s culture capital, where history, art, and culinary delights intersect! Before you pick up your campervan, enjoy a hearty breakfast in the city at one of the many famous laneway cafés. Spend the rest of the morning exploring popular spots like Federation Square and the nearby Melbourne Museum.

Afternoon: Pick up your campervan hire in the early afternoon and set off towards the Royal Botanic Gardens for an afternoon amongst nature before heading to Southbank for a delicious riverside lunch. Torquay is only an hour away, so there’s plenty of time to amble over before the sun sets.

Evening: Settle in at your campsite and start getting familiar with your camper’s kitchen with a tasty home-cooked meal!

Where to stay: Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park, 35 Bell St, Torquay, VIC, 3228

The only beachfront park in Torquay, this is a great spot to set your expectations for the Great Ocean Road. It has all the standard amenities as well as powered sites.

Torquay, Visit Victoria

Morning: The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives and a must-see on your iconic Australia road trip. Have a relaxed beachside breakfast in Torquay with a visit to Bells Beach, famous for its world-class surf. As you drive along the coastal route, you’ll encounter breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and lush rainforests.

Afternoon: Pause at Lorne for lunch, where you can explore the charming seaside town and visit the serene Erskine Falls. Continuing along the route, keep an eye out for landmarks like the Split Point Lighthouse and enjoy photo opportunities at various lookout points. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the Twelve Apostles, a series of dramatic limestone stacks that are especially magical at sunset.

Evening: Spend the evening in Port Campbell, savouring a meal at a local eatery or in your campervan after a day of awe-inspiring sights.

Where to stay: NRMA Port Campbell Holiday Park, 30 Morris St, Port Campbell VIC 3269

Tucked in a quiet corner beside the beach and Port Campbell Creek, this uncomplicated holiday park has powered sites, standard amenities, a camp kitchen, dump point, and kiosk.

12 Apostles, Visit Victoria

Morning: Leave Port Campbell behind and double back through Melbourne, making your way to the tranquil Mornington Peninsula. After the drive, settle down at the Peninsula Hot Springs, where geothermal pools offer the perfect way to recharge!

Afternoon: After a rejuvenating morning, head to Red Hill for a wine-tasting session at one of the region’s renowned vineyards. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with fresh, local produce while overlooking the rolling hills. Walk off your meal with a visit Cape Schanck Lighthouse, where you can explore the dramatic coastal landscapes and rugged cliffs.

Evening: As the day comes to an end, dine at a waterfront restaurant in Sorrento, savouring freshly caught seafood while watching the sun dip below the horizon. End your day with a peaceful walk along the beach and head back to your campsite for some rest.

Where to stay: Big4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park, 2 Robinsons Road Frankston South 3199

Close to all the peninsula’s best spots, the Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park offers powered sites, a playground, onsite laundry, swimming pool, free WiFi, and a convenience store.

Peninsula Hot Springs, Visit Victoria

Morning: Set off on a day trip towards Phillip Island, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Start your morning with a visit to the Koala Conservation Centre, where you can walk along elevated boardwalks and observe koalas in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Pause for lunch at a local café, enjoying the laid-back island vibe. Continue to the Nobbies Centre, where boardwalks offer stunning views of Seal Rocks and the dramatic Bass Strait coastline.

Evening: Make your way over to the Penguin Parade to witness Phillip Island’s most famous attraction. Watch the adorable spectacle of little penguins returning to their burrows at sunset, an absolute must-see experience in Victoria.

Where to stay: Big4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park, 2 Robinsons Road Frankston South, VIC 3199

Close to all the peninsula’s best spots, the Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park offers powered sites, a playground, onsite laundry, swimming pool, free WiFi, and a convenience store.

Cape Woolamai (Phillip Island), Neisha Been

Morning: Depart Phillip Island in the morning for the scenic drive to Wilsons Promontory. Known as “The Prom,” this national park is a sanctuary of untouched wilderness and coastal charm. Upon arrival, stretch your legs with a walk around the Tidal River area and enjoy a picnic lunch amid serene natural surroundings.

Afternoon: Hike to Mount Oberon Summit for sweeping panoramic views of the park and its surrounding beaches. The climb is moderate but rewarding, offering one of the best photo opportunities of your trip. After descending, explore the white sands of Squeaky Beach, famous for its unique quartz sand that squeaks underfoot and its turquoise waters.

Evening: Settle into your campground somewhere near Wilsons Promontory and give yourself a moment to stargaze! You’re looking at one of the darkest skies in the region, free from light pollution, so the view is almost guaranteed to be unforgettable.

Where to stay: Big4 Wilsons Prom Holiday Park, 390 Foley Rd, Yanakie VIC 3960

Your best launching point for the Gippsland, Big4 Wilsons Prom Holiday Park offers basic powered sites and all your standard facilities!

Wilsons Promontory National Park, Visit Victoria

Morning: Say goodbye to The Prom and start your scenic drive to Sydney! You’ll be making your way up to Lakes Entrance, with an important detour by the Gippsland Lakes. This area has Australia’s largest and most beautiful inland waterways, consisting of lakes, marshes, and lagoons!

Afternoon: Treat yourself to some fresh, locally caught seafood—perhaps a plate of fish and chips while overlooking the water. There are plenty of unique and antique shops around the town, so why not go for a wander?

Evening: Wrap up your time in Lakes Entrance by returning to your campsite and get some rest.

Where to stay: Lakes Main Holiday Park, 7 Willis St, Lakes Entrance VIC 3909

Located conveniently at Lakes Entrance, this holiday park is peaceful and offers grass powered sites with all the standard amenities!

Ninety Mile Beach Gippsland, Visit Victoria

DAY 7

Morning: It’s a big day of driving today, and you’ll want to start early with the 5-hour inland drive up to Australia’s Capital city! You’ll be passing through multiple national parks, such as Snowy River National Park, Kosciuszko National Park, and Namadgi National Park. Plan to make a few detours along the way.

Afternoon: Continue your driving and exploring freely, aiming to arrive in Canberra in the late afternoon or early evening.

Evening: Aim for an easy dinner at a hearty pub.

DAY 8

Morning: Spend a bit of time getting familiar with Australia’s capital city, with stops by Mount Ainslie Lookout, the Australian War Memorial, and Duntroon.

Afternoon: Enjoy your lunch in the city and check out the National Museum of Australia and Parliament House (both activities offer free entry) to get a culture fix.

Evening: Stock up your campervan in preparation for the next few days at any of the nearby supermarkets and return to your holiday park for dinner in your camper.

Where to stay: Exhibition Park, Corner of Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Mitchell ACT 2911

Only 8 minutes north of the city centre, this park offers all amenities, including showers, toilets, and laundry as well as powered sites and a farmer’s market on Saturday mornings!

Canberra Parliament House

DAY 9

Morning: You’re in luck, because Sydney is only three hours away! Aim to be in the city by mid-morning with time to explore The Rocks, a historic Sydney precinct. Wander through its cobblestone streets and walk to Circular Quay or join a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, an architectural masterpiece and global icon.

Afternoon: Head to Bondi Beach for a relaxing swim or take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, which is a picturesque trail that hugs the coastline and offers spectacular ocean views. Stop along the way for a light lunch at one of the beachfront cafés.

Evening: This is your time to spoil yourself if you’re looking for a memorable experience! Dine at a fine restaurant like Bennelong, located within the Opera House, and enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge. Alternatively, take a harbour dinner cruise and admire the city’s glittering skyline from the water.

DAY 10

Morning: Dedicate your second day in Sydney to its stunning harbour and green spaces. Drive over to Taronga Zoo, where you can meet native Australian wildlife with the Sydney skyline as a backdrop. Enjoy a relaxed zoo tour in the morning, followed by lunch at its café overlooking the water.

Afternoon: Leave your camper somewhere nearby and return to Circular Quay to take a walk across the Harbour Bridge (or you can even climb it if you’re feeling adventurous). Afterward unwind at the Royal Botanic Garden.

Evening: Chinatown offers vibrant and flavourful dinners for all budgets. Sample authentic dishes at local restaurants or explore the street food stalls at Dixon Street. End your day with a walk through Darling Square, enjoying its lively atmosphere and public art installations.

Where to stay: Discovery Parks Lane Cove, 13 Plassey Rd, Macquarie Park NSW 2113

Backing onto the nearby National Park, this is another no-fuss camping experience and an easy train ride into the city if you’re not comfortable driving in Sydney.

Bondi Beach, Destination NSW

Morning: Set out early for a day trip to the Blue Mountains, which is only a short drive from Sydney. Begin your exploration at Scenic World, where you can experience the thrill of the Scenic Railway, the world’s steepest passenger railway. Take the cableway for stunning aerial views of the valley and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch in the charming village of Leura, known for its boutique shops and cosy cafés. Spend your afternoon at the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which is a comfortable walk for most hikers with uninterrupted views of the Jamison Valley.

Evening: End your day back in Sydney with a relaxed dinner in your camper, or book a campsite in the Blue Mountains if there’s a better deal to be found!

Where to stay: Discovery Parks Lane Cove, 13 Plassey Rd, Macquarie Park NSW 2113

Backing onto the nearby National Park, this is another no-fuss camping experience and an easy train ride into the city if you’re not comfortable driving in Sydney.

Blue Mountains, Destination NSW

Morning: Hit the road early towards Port Macquarie, following the Pacific Highway with an early morning stop at Forster. You could easily spend the day in this area, with Wallis Lake and the Pacific Ocean creating a natural aquatic haven full of boating, fishing, paddling, and surfing for an all-out authentic Aussie experience. There are also a few national parks nearby and plenty of coastal adventures.

Afternoon: You’ll arrive in Port Macquarie by mid/late afternoon (depending on how many stops you made), where you can check into your accommodation and head to the Billabong Zoo Koala & Wildlife Park ($30-$45 for general admission) for the rest of the afternoon and poke your nose into the Koala Conservation Hospital ($8-$12.50 for general admission).

Otherwise, if you’re keen to keep your funds in the bank or you’re short on time, set off towards Lighthouse Beach for a swim and then spend the day exploring the endless hiking trails that’ll give you a close and personal view of the region’s popular lookouts.

Evening: Enjoy a waterfront dinner! The local musicians set the stage for an evening of dining and entertainment.

Where to stay: NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall, 1 Munster St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Classic camping right on the water’s edge, it doesn’t get more uncomplicated than this. The park offers powered sites, a swimming pool, a café/bar, and a dump point.

Port Macquarie, Koala Hospital

DAY 13

Morning: Start the next leg of your Aussie road trip with an early departure from Port Macquarie, heading north towards Byron Bay. This is another long NSW drive, so plan for scenic stops along the way to stretch your legs.

Afternoon: Take your time on the way, because you’ve got time to poke your head into some of the top spots along the way such as Nambucca Heads, Dorrigo National Park, and the Big Prawn. Coffs Harbour is your halfway point and well worth some exploration.

Evening: Aim to arrive in Byron Bay by late afternoon or early evening (before it gets dark) to check into your accommodation. Spend the night unwinding at a local beachfront restaurant, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and live music this coastal town is famous for.

DAY 14

Morning: Wake up to the laid-back coastal vibes of Byron Bay! Start your morning with a yoga class on the beach or a leisurely breakfast at one of the town’s cafés. Then, head out for a kayaking adventure with dolphins, a signature Byron Bay experience that lets you paddle alongside playful marine life.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, take a walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse, the easternmost point of mainland Australia. The trail offers spectacular ocean views, and during late summer, you may even spot migrating whales. Afterward, spend some time relaxing on Wategos Beach, one of the most picturesque spots in the region.

Evening: Enjoy a tasty homecooked meal in your campervan.

Where to stay: Reflections Byron Bay, 1 Lighthouse Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481

Despite being close to Byron Bay and only two hours away from Brisbane, this holiday park feels like its nestled inside a rainforest! You’ll find powered sites, amenities, laundry, holiday activities (check the website), a camp kitchen, BBQ area, kiosk, playground, and a dump point.

Dorrigo, Destination NSW

DAY 15

Morning: After breakfast, take the short drive to the Gold Coast, the perfect balance of natural beauty and urban excitement. Check into your accommodation and spend the morning exploring waterfalls and ancient forests at Springbrook National Park.

Afternoon: Head to Surfers Paradise, affectionately known as the heart of the Gold Coast for some shopping therapy, relax on the golden sands, or take book a surfing lesson. For a fun family activity, visit SkyPoint Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Evening: Treat yourself to a waterfront dinner at Broadbeach. For nightlife enthusiasts, the Gold Coast’s vibrant club scene offers plenty of options to dance the night away.

DAY 16

Morning: Dedicate your second day in the Gold Coast to its world-famous theme parks! Choose from Dreamworld for thrilling rides, Sea World for marine life encounters, or Movie World for Hollywood-inspired fun. Each park offers a full day of entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Afternoon: For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at one of the food stalls within the parks and get straight back to the epic rides!

Evening: It’s time to relax! Settle down at your camper for a meal.

Where to stay: Broadwater Tourist Park, 169 Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215

Close to the excitement of the Gold Coast, this park offers powered sites, all amenities, dump point, and a laid back camping experience.

Movie World, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Bid farewell to the Gold Coast and drive north to the Sunshine Coast, with a stop en route at the Glass House Mountains for a short hike or scenic photo opportunity. These ancient volcanic peaks are a striking feature of the hinterland and not one to be missed.

Afternoon: Arrive in Noosaville on the Sunshine Coast by mid-afternoon. Spend the rest of the day exploring Noosa National Park, walking its coastal trails and spotting wildlife like koalas and dolphins. Cool off with a swim at Noosa Main Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves.

Evening: In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of Hastings Street’s upscale beachfront restaurants. The Sunshine Coast’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere sets the tone for a perfect end to your day.

Where to stay: Ingenia Holidays Noosa, 141 Cooroy Noosa Rd, Tewantin QLD 4565

Ingenia Holidays Noosa is only minutes away from Noosa Main Beach. It offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a dump point.

Noosa Everglades, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Begin your day with a sunrise paddle through the Noosa Everglades, a hidden gem in Australia. Guided kayak tours offer a peaceful way to explore the unique ecosystem, with its mirror-like waterways and diverse birdlife. After your morning adventure, head back to Noosa for a relaxed beachfront brunch.

Afternoon: Soak up the sun at Noosa Main Beach or take a short hike to Hell’s Gates, a dramatic viewpoint along the Noosa National Park coastal trail. The walk offers stunning views of the turquoise ocean and rugged cliffs. Make the two-hour drive up to Hervey Bay in the afternoon.

Evening: Enjoy dinner from the comfort of your camper and prepare for an early morning ferry.

Where to stay: Big4 Hervey Bay Holiday Park, 26 Corser Street, Hervey Bay 4655 QLD

Just out of the hustle and bustle, Big4 Hervey Bay offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and easy access to the Fraser Coast.

Hervey Bay, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Hervey Bay is the launching point for K’Gari (formerly known as Fraser Island). Take the morning SeaLink ferry from River Heads to K’Gari, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest sand island in the world.

Afternoon: Start your exploration with a guided 4WD tour along 75 Mile Beach. Marvel at the island’s unique landscapes, from sandy highways to ancient rainforests. Stop at the Maheno Shipwreck, a hauntingly beautiful relic washed ashore, and enjoy a swim in Eli Creek, a crystal-clear freshwater stream.

If you have extra time, you should absolutely spend an extra day on the island exploring the inland wonders, such as the Champagne Pools, Indian Head, and Lake McKenzie.

Evening: Catch the latest ferry back to land and return to your campervan in Hervey Bay.

Where to stay: Big4 Hervey Bay Holiday Park, 26 Corser Street, Hervey Bay 4655 QLD

Just out of the hustle and bustle, Big4 Hervey Bay offers powered sites, an on-site café/convenience store, coin-operated laundry facilities, and easy access to the Fraser Coast.

S.S Maheno, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: En route to Rockhampton, make a stop for coffee and snacks at the charming town of Agnes Water, with a quick walk to the Captain Cook Monument or the Paperbark Forest Walk.

Afternoon: Arrive in Rockhampton by mid-afternoon to visit the Botanic Gardens and Zoo, which offers free entry and is home to various native animals. Alternatively, if you’re keen on exploring, Mount Archer National Park is accessible via sealed roads and offers plenty of walking tracks, or the Capricorn Caves are a great destination for unique underground exploration.

Evening: After a busy day of adventuring, take a sunset stroll alongside the Rockhampton River and then make yourself a tasty meal in your camper.

Where to stay: Discovery Park Rockhampton, 394 Yaamba Rd, Norman Gardens QLD 4701

This affordable holiday park is located close to Mount Archer and everything you need to see around the Capricorn Coast! The park features powered sites, standard amenities, a swimming pool, a playground, a kiosk/store, a water park, and a dump point.

Mt Archer, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Depart Rockhampton first thing in the morning with your sights set on Airlie Beach. Today’s long drive features coastal sights and plenty of things to look at along the way.

Afternoon: You’ll want to plan for a major stop in Mackay! You can spend an extra day here if you have time, but otherwise you’ve got a free afternoon to stretch your legs with a swim at Bluewater Lagoon and some city exploration.

Evening: Arrive in Airlie Beach by evening, just in time to catch the tropical sunset. Check into your holiday park and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a waterfront restaurant like Fish D’vine, known for its fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Where to stay: NRMA Airlie Beach, 234 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, QLD 4802

With a resort-style swimming pool and all the standard necessities, NRMA Airlie Beach is an uncomplicated holiday park to stay at!

Pioneer River, Mackay

Morning: Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays, and today is all about exploring this stunning archipelago. Begin your day with a sailing tour to Whitehaven Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches for its pure white silica sand and turquoise waters. Spend your morning swimming, snorkelling, and soaking in the paradise-like surroundings.

Afternoon: Continue your tour to Hill Inlet, a breathtaking viewpoint where swirling sands meet the azure ocean. It’s one of the most photographed locations in Australia and a highlight of the Whitsundays. Return to Airlie Beach by late afternoon and unwind at the lagoon, a picturesque swimming area perfect for a relaxing end to the day.

Evening: For dinner, head to a local restaurant or enjoy a casual meal by the beach as you reflect on your adventures so far.

Where to stay: NRMA Airlie Beach, 234 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, QLD 4802

With a resort-style swimming pool and all the standard necessities, NRMA Airlie Beach is an uncomplicated holiday park to stay at!

Hill Inlet, Tourism & Events Queensland

Morning: Depart Airlie Beach early and enjoy the scenic drive to Townsville. On arrival, visit The Strand first, which is a picturesque waterfront promenade best for wandering and swimming. If you’ve got time up your sleeve, we suggest checking out Magnetic Island, but since the itinerary is coming to an end it’s time to hustle!

Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at Reef HQ Aquarium, home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, and learn about the Great Barrier Reef’s incredible ecosystem. Alternatively, head out to Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park to stretch your legs.

Evening: Take a stroll along the waterfront as the city lights come alive and head back to your camper for a homecooked meal.

Where to stay: Big4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville, 234 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, QLD 4802

Set amongst palm trees, Big4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville has everything you need for a tropical getaway! You’ll find all your standard amenities, swimming pool, splash park, waterslides, mini-golf, and so much more!

Cape Pallarenda, Tourism & Events Queensland

DAY 24

Morning: Depart early for Cairns with a stop by Mission Beach for a swim and photography opportunity. Give yourself a few hours to wander and explore the area – or stay an extra night if you have time!

Afternoon: You’ll arrive in the city around lunchtime or late afternoon depending on your schedule for the day. To make life easy, start by settling into your holiday park before you jump straight into exploring the city. One of your first destinations has to be the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and Boardwalk. You’ll be spending tomorrow out on the ocean, so this is a good opportunity to return your camper and relax in a hotel for the night.

Evening: Treat yourself at the Salt House, a waterfront restaurant with views of the marina and a menu highlighting fresh local seafood.

DAY 25

Morning: There’s no shortage of things to do in Cairns! Set off on a full-day tour of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive among coral reefs and marine life, or enjoy the views as a spectator on a glass-bottom boat.

If the Great Barrier Reef isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to see in the area! Head out to Kuranda for an afternoon of exploration, check out Babinda Boulders, and discover so much more!

Afternoon: Continue your adventures. If you’re not out at the Great Barrier Reef, aim to return to Cairns in the late afternoon and visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens, renowned for its tropical plant displays before wrapping up the day with a relaxing swim or meal.

Evening: Dine out with the locals or save your budget with a home-cooked meal.

Where to stay: NRMA Cairns Holiday Park, 12-30 Little St, Manunda QLD 4870

Close to everything, Cairns Holiday park offers powered sites, a swimming pool, kiosk, a dump point, and seasonal holiday activities.

Trinity Beach, Tourism & Events Queensland