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8-Day Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary — First-Timers’ Camper Van Guide for S$1.6k

This Gold Coast road trip itinerary is the ideal guide to living your best camper van life for first timers. Don’t worry, we’re koalified .

Photo credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Get your playlist ready because we’re going on a road trip. From iconic beaches in Surfers Paradise to intimate animal encounters, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to start. I’ve always dreamed of going on a camper van road trip. The joy of waking up to sun rays peeking through the window, with front-row seats to the best that nature has to offer. It’s more than just a means of transportation — it’s your mobile home, your window to the world, and your passport to the unmatched beauty of Queensland .

We spent eight days driving across the city and rolling hills of the Gold Coast and hinterland, exploring and living out our dream. While I’m a seasoned road tripper, camper vanning felt a little scary at first. After all, there’s a lot more to consider, from finding campsites to ensuring you have enough power and water supply, to the different add-ons for your camper van.

So here’s our Gold Coast road trip itinerary, with a summary of costs (at the end), tips, and FAQ on how you can do it too. We hope that you’ll get to experience the adventure of camper vanning yourself!

Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Overview

This first-timers’ camper van itinerary focuses on shorter drives not longer than an hour and showcases a taste of everything the Gold Coast has to offer — think adorable wildlife, long sandy beaches, natural landscapes, and theme parks.

Click to jump to each section

Day 1: Coolangatta and Whale Watching Day 2: Currumbin Wildlife and Adventure Day 3: Alpacas and Tamborine National Park Day 4-5: Theme Parks Day 6: Surfers Paradise Day 7: Burleigh and Tallebudgera Creek Day 8: Flight Home Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Budget Breakdown Camper Van Road Trip FAQ & Tips Gold Coast Travel Essentials

Day 1: Coolangatta and Whale Watching

First up, collecting our camper van at Elanora. We booked our gorgeous CUB camper van with Rolling Playgrounds . The artwork was a consistent conversation starter with others and was such a vibe.

The owner Dan was friendly and always available to answer any questions we had. Despite the compact size, it had everything we needed — a stove, fridge, sink (that doubles as an outdoor shower in a pinch), solar panels for charging, outdoor table and chairs, comfortable bed for two adults and a child, and plenty of storage space. *Pro-tip: Check out our road trip FAQ and tips on getting your first camper van!

Set aside at least 1 hour for collection though, because an in-depth orientation is required to familiarise yourself with the ins-and-outs of the camper van.

Before heading off, we also swung by Woolworths Coolangatta to stock up on some groceries and snacks.

Whale Watching Safari

Photo credit: Cooly Eco Adventures

Whale watching in the Gold Coast is nature’s theatre at its best. Between May and November, 30,000 humpback whales migrate from Antarctica — breaching in glittering waters, with playful dolphins occasionally surfing in their wake.

We joined a safari tour with Cooly Eco Adventures , which used an awesome open vessel that felt like a roller coaster as we zipped across the ocean. A fellow passenger beside us was screaming with joy every time the boat sped up. It’s pretty fun but be prepared as you will get a little wet!

The team provided waterproof spray jackets, but we recommend bringing your own layers as it can get colder out on the water.

*Pro-tip: Pack some light snacks if you’d like to munch on something onboard as tea/coffee are only served before the tour.

If you’re after something more intimate, they also offer opportunities to swim with the humpback whales on a separate tour .

Cost:  AU$119  (~S$107) for a 2.5hr whale watching safari  Tour timings:  7AM, 10:30AM, 2PM (arrive 30mins prior to departure) Meeting point:  12min drive from Coolangatta Beach. Look out for a white trailer at the side of the road ( Google Maps )

Coolangatta Beach and Point Danger Sunset

Photo credit: Expedia

After the tour, head to Coolangatta Beach to wind down and chill. It’s known for its silky white sand and blue waters so you can even take a dip too! Swing over to the nearby headland at Point Danger to catch the sunset for the perfect end to the first day.

Campsite – Kirra Beach Tourist Park (Day 1-2)

As our camper van doesn’t have its own toilet, we generally parked at tourist parks that have access to common bathrooms with warm showers every night. Kirra Beach Tourist Park was a no-frills campsite. Their powered van sites (including a powerpoint to charge your battery) are very spacious so we could easily set up our van and do our own cooking.

Cost: From AU$100/2 nights  (~S$90) for a powered van site. Minimum two nights stay. How to get there: 3min drive from Coolangatta Beach ( Google Maps )

Day 2: Currumbin Wildlife and Adventure

Currumbin lorikeet feeding.

We started the day meeting Australia’s most colourful (and adorable) bird species outside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary . The native wild lorikeets displayed their loving disregard for personal space by chilling on our heads and arms during feeding, which happens twice a day!

The best part is that the entire lorikeet feeding experience is free! You won’t need an entry ticket if you don’t have time to explore the sanctuary.

As the lorikeets are wild, they can get spooked and fly off if there are predators nearby. So we suggest catching the morning feeding session as it’s less crowded, plus you have a second chance of seeing the cute birds again if you missed them in the earlier session.

*Pro-tip: Wear a hat or long sleeves to avoid being scratched by the birds!

Cost: Free, with a voluntary donation for a plate of lorikeet feed Tour timings:  8AM, 4PM Meeting point: Outside the ticketing booth of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. 7min drive from Kirra Beach Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Now on to the main event, exploring Australia’s unique biodiversity at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary ! Home to rescued native mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians, each visit contributes towards some vital breeding and conservation programmes in the region.

The koalas were a highlight for us — I love how adorable and peaceful they look when asleep! The sanctuary treats over 500 sick or injured koalas every year, so any additional contribution helps to support their efforts. You can cuddle and take a photo with one for AU$39 or feed the red kangaroos by grabbing some feed from the kiosk.

Entrance fee: ~AU$60 (~S$54) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM

Lunch at Tommy’s Italian

For lunch, we drove to the highly-rated Tommy’s Italian , which is set against the beautiful backdrop of Currumbin Beach!

The restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine combined with Australia’s freshest ingredients. The prawn fettuccine, pappardelle lamb ragu, and grilled calamari had complex flavours that blended well while still bringing out the freshness of every single ingredient.

*Note: Make reservations in advance as the place can get pretty packed.

Cost: From AU$28 for mains (~S$25.20) Opening hours:  11:30AM – 9PM, closed on Mon and Tue How to get there: 3min drive from Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary ( Google Maps )

TreeTop Challenge

After filling our tummies, we headed back inside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to try the TreeTop Challenge, which is a nice change of pace from the rest of the park!

I felt like a ninja warrior as we ziplined over crocodiles and kangaroos across the seven high rope courses. The courses range from family-friendly easy to physically demanding black diamond ones so there’s definitely something for everyone.

The entire park took us approximately 2.5 hours to complete and is a nice warm-up before moving on to more adventurous activities like Gold Coast’s renowned theme parks!

*Pro-tip: If you plan to do both the TreeTop Challenge and visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, opt for the TreeTop Challenge Experience Pass (AU$90, ~S$81) for an AU$30 discount.

Cost: AU$60 (~S$54) Opening hours:  9AM – 4PM

Camper Van BBQ for Dinner

Nothing screams “camper van life” more than an evening barbeque with some beer. We gorged on some steak and kebabs for our final night at this campsite before chilling the night away under the stars. We chatted with neighbours, exchanged stories, and basically lived our best life.

If you have a little more budget, it’s always a good idea to buy a bit more food to share!

Day 3: Alpacas and Tamborine National Park

Mountview alpaca farm.

After an hour’s drive through the breathtaking hinterland of Gold Coast, we ended up at Mountview Alpaca Farm . With over 80 alpacas (yes 80) on the farm, it’s easy to lose track of time staring at their silly faces and antics!

We booked a 30-Minute Alpaca Experience , which allowed us to roam the farm with our own alpaca for some one-on-one time. Pat them, feed them, take photos, it’s all up to you.

Pick your alpaca carefully though. Our alpaca ‘Loki’ fooled us with his looks and was such a handful to guide around compared to the rest. Well, at least we didn’t get spat on!

This is ‘Loki’, our goofy alpaca .

There’s also a restaurant on the premises where you can order everything from pizza to wine and cheese.

*Pro-tip: Save some alpaca feed in order to lead your alpaca back to the pen!

Entrance fee: Free Cost for Alpaca Experience: AU$24.50 (~S$22), min 2 pax Opening hours:  9:30AM – 3:30PM (Mon – Fri), 9AM – 4PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 1hr drive from Kirra Beach Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Lunch at Hang Glider Launch and Lookout Point

Photo credit: Dave MC via Google Photos

As recommended by a friend, we dropped by this lookout point to have a picnic before heading for our hikes.

I loved how windy it was and the view of the valley below — no wonder it’s used by hang gliders as a launch site! It’s also really relaxing to people-watch and see the gliders take off one after the other. Bonus points for having proper parking and toilets too!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  6AM – 9PM How to get there: 23min drive from Mountview Alpaca Farm ( Google Maps )

Hiking at Tamborine National Park

Home to ancient trees and sparkling waterfalls, we couldn’t miss out on exploring this natural beauty. Tamborine National Park has a collection of scenic treks, but if you’re short on time, here are three easy walks that we recommend. If you’re fast, you can easily do all three!

Curtis Falls & Lower Creek Circuit (2.7km, 45mins) This popular short trek through enchanting ancient trees leads you to the beautiful Curtis Falls. Great way to explore the area briefly.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24hrs Starting point : Public Carpark just off Dapsang Drive ( Google Maps )

Witches Chase Trek to Witches Falls Circuit (6km, 1hr 43 mins) A combination of two treks that takes you through one of the best bush walks in the national park. Traverse lush rainforests to scenic lookout points over Witches Falls.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24hrs Starting point : Public Carpark along Main Western Road ( Google Maps )

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk (1.5km, 45mins) Go on an eco-adventure from forest floor trails to bridges 30m above the rainforest canopy and creek.

Entrance fee : AU$19.50 (~S$17.50) Opening hours:  9:30AM – 5PM How to get there : 11min drive from Hang Glider Lookout Point ( Google Maps )

Witches Falls Winery 

After hiking, we sat back and relaxed at the nearby Witches Falls Winery . What’s cool is that they use wild yeasts (instead of standardised commercial ones) for the fermentation process in many of their wines, resulting in ‘wines with character’!

We tried the wine-tasting menu, which included six different wines over 60 minutes. Of course we loved the wild ferment series, in particular the distinctive flavours of the Wild Ferment Nero d’Avola (red wine).

For the drivers, don’t worry as there is a non-alcoholic wine tasting menu too. Buy some wine back for the evening instead 😛

Cost: Tasting set at AU$15 (~S$13.50) Opening hours:  9:30AM – 3:30PM (Mon – Fri), 9AM – 4PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 10min drive from Tamborine National Park area ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park (Day 3-4)

Photo credit: Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Since the iconic theme parks were up next on our Gold Coast road trip itinerary, we based ourselves at the nearby Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park for two days. The place is affordable, with plenty of facilities like a pool, water park, basketball court, and a well-equipped amenities block (we greatly appreciated the spacious shower areas)!

Cost: From AU$71/night  (~S$64) for a powered site How to get there: 30min drive from Witches Falls Winery ( Google Maps )

Day 4-5: Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World

For adrenaline junkies, no visit to the Gold Coast will be complete without visiting the theme parks.

They say that the Gold Coast’s largest theme park is an exhilarating mix of adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, captivating live shows, and interactive wildlife encounters. But to us, it was all about the rides.

From the 39-storeys-high Giant Drop to the latest 1.2km-long Steel Taipan with a G-force of 3.8, there were plenty of rides that kept our adrenaline pumping for the entire day. I loved the Giant Drop so much that I actually took it three times! Please don’t do it back-to-back like me though 🤢 

*Pro-tip: Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Entrance fee: ~S$90 Opening hours:  10:30AM – 4PM (Mon – Fri), 10AM – 5PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 7min drive from Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park ( Google Maps )

Warner Bros. Movie World

But if you only have time for one theme park, Warner Bros. Movie World is the one. Other than sporting themed rides, film characters, and stunt shows from the DC and Warner Brothers universe, the park is constantly evolving with new events and rides. The Flash: Speed Force roller coaster is opening in 2024!

As a DC fan, I felt like a kid again seeing my favourite comic book characters come to life. For the rides, Superman Escape and DC Rivals HyperCoaster literally blew our minds with speeds of over 100km/h.

You don’t have to worry about bad weather too! Even though it was raining when we went, there were still plenty of rides open — with indoor shows, merchandise shops, and Superhero/Villain interactions in the sheltered areas.

*Pro-tip: Download the New Village Roadshow app to queue virtually and check ride timings.

Entrance fee: AU$95 (~S$85.50) or free with the Paradise Country Farmstay and Theme Park package Opening hours:  9:30AM – 5PM How to get there: 7min drive from Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Paradise Country Farmstay (Day 5)

Photo credit: Paradise Country

As shared above, there’s a hack to get free tickets to Warner Bros. Movie World! For day five, book a Farmstay and Theme Park package at Paradise Country. The package allows you unlimited access for two adults and two children to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and Paradise Country during your stay.

The van sites have the usual amenities and also let you take part in simple sunrise farm stay activities (cow milking, cow feeding, collecting fresh eggs and more) at Paradise Country the next morning.

Cost: From AU$135/night  (~S$121.50) for a Farmstay and Theme Park package How to get there: 9min drive from Warner Bros. Movie World ( Google Maps )

Day 6: Surfers Paradise

Surfing at surfers paradise.

With skyscrapers fringing the long golden beaches, Surfers Paradise is the iconic landmark of the Gold Coast. And the best way to take it all in is to catch some waves at one of the most famous beaches in the world.

We took a 2-hour long beginner class with the super professional team at Go Ride A Wave . As you can see in the picture, RJ looked like he was rocking it. If you’re an experienced surfer, you can also rent surfboards and wet suits from them.

Go Ride A Wave Cost: AU$79 (~S$71) Time slots:  10AM, 1PM How to get there: 28min drive from Paradise Country ( Google Maps )

Lunch at Betty’s Burgers & Gelato Messina

Swing by Betty’s Burgers for some classic American grub like beef burgers and milkshakes before topping it off with the best gelato in the region.

Gelato Messina has 40 unique flavours prepared from scratch, and they even own a farm that produces the milk required for their gelatos! Be sure to try the rotating weekly specials — some of their hall of fame flavours include “You Cannoli Live Once” which is made from creme patissiere gelato with pistachio fudge, pistachio praline and cannoli shells.

HOTA, Home of the Arts

Gold Coast’s vibrant cultural heartbeat. HOTA is the hub for all things creative and artistic. It’s a really fun place to spend the afternoon, with plenty of free (or paid) exhibitions and events that showcase a diverse blend of visual and performing arts.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  7:30AM – 9PM How to get there: 9min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Sunset at SkyPoint Observation Deck

We ended the day by catching the sunset from the tallest building on the Gold Coast. Perched atop the Q1 Building, SkyPoint Observation Deck offers a 360° panoramic view 230m above sea level. *Pro-tip: Pick your spot early because it gets really crowded once the sun sets!

For the adventurous, there’s also a SkyPoint climb for an even better view.

Cost: ~S$28 Opening hours:  10AM – 4PM How to get there: 8min drive from HOTA ( Google Maps )

Dinner at Miami Marketta

Housed at a refurbished mechanics warehouse, Miami Marketta was a nice change of environment from restaurants, cafes, and cooking out of our own camper van!

Open three times a week, this vibrant night market is an eclectic mix of global street food, live bands, and good vibes. I recommend trying cuisines from all over the world — we had Korean fried chicken, Spanish paella, and sinfully rich burgers.

Cost: From AU$14 for mains (~S$12.60) Opening hours:  5PM – 10PM How to get there: 17min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Campsite – Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park (Day 6-7)

For our final two nights, we based ourselves at a tourist park just off the serene Tallebudgera Creek — our next destination!

Cost: From AU$120/2 nights  (~S$108) for a grass-powered van site. Minimum two nights stay. How to get there: 27min drive from Surfers Paradise ( Google Maps )

Day 7: Burleigh and Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera creek and burleigh heads walk.

After a couple of action-packed days, we decided to slow down with an easy nature walk from David Fleay Wildlife Park to Burleigh Heads National Park . We took a short Uber ride instead of driving from our campsite so we didn’t have to backtrack to collect our vehicle.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Start at David Fleay Wildlife Park and walk along Tallebudgera Creek. There is plenty of wildlife like birds, and if you’re patient like us, you can even spot hundreds of crabs walking past you during low tide.

After the hike, we stopped by Burleigh Beach Kiosk for some basic fish and chips while watching surfers catch waves at Burleigh Hill.

There’s also a yummy gelato place nearby at Burleigh Gelato Co (you won’t regret trying the biscoff flavour), with plenty of international restaurants in the same area.

Day 8: Flight Home

Pasture & co..

Before returning the camper van, we made a final stop at Pasture & Co. for breakfast. The organic Leaf & Berry Coffee has a unique flavour profile, and I absolutely loved the Tempura Cauliflower with aioli that had the perfect amount of spice.

Pasture & Co. is located inside Ground at Currumbin , which is an Eco Village with an organic grocer and a bathhouse where you can relax in mineral-enriched pools, saunas and spa baths.

Cost: From AU$14 for mains (~S$12.60) Opening hours:  7AM – 3PM How to get there: 17min drive from Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park ( Google Maps )

Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary Budget Breakdown

Transport (excl. flights) :  S$654.88 Accommodation (campsites):  S$223.65 Activities:  S$424 Misc (incl. food & SIM cards):  S$358.31 Total: ~S$1,660.83 for 1 pax

Click here for the detailed breakdown . Flights are excluded as prices fluctuate depending on the season.

Camper Van Road Trip FAQ & Tips

1) what camper van should i get.

For first-timers, I recommend a compact camper van that fits two adults comfortably. It’s about the size of a big SUV, and more or less allows you to drive anywhere. That way you can reach remote or less-accessible places compared to a bigger camper van.

If you are taller or bigger built, Rolling Playgrounds has a larger camper van that is taller and includes a standing shower. The height limit prevents you from getting into some car parks, but the overall size is still manageable.

For larger groups, you can consider a Caravan or Motorhome that can typically sleep up to six people. However, if you’re new to this, I still recommend renting separate smaller vehicles for safety.

2) Can I camp anywhere? And where can I park my camper van ?

The official answer is no, you cannot camp anywhere. But there are many easily accessible places to camp at! Rest Areas: There are over 450 rest areas throughout Queensland — these are free places where you can park and rest for up to 20 hours. While you can sleep overnight inside your camper van, you cannot set up furniture or tents outside. Campsites: There are both free and paid options. Paid options typically come with power supply, water, and access to shared bathing facilities and kitchens. More premium campsites can have ensuite bathrooms for a little more privacy.

With regard to parking, our compact camper van allowed us to park anywhere. If you opted for a bigger vehicle, just make sure it fits within the parking lot.

3) Is it easy to cook?

Yes and it was really fun! Our CUB camper van had all the essentials (basic condiments, cutlery, cooking utensils), so the only thing to think about was what to cook.

There are plenty of affordable supermarkets around (thank you Woolworths) and honestly, Australia’s fresh produce is the best. Plus, kicking back after a day of exploring with BBQ and a beer in hand gave us a big sense of fulfilment compared to just eating out!

4) Is driving a camper van safe?

The Gold Coast is generally really safe, but please don’t leave your valuables within sight if you leave the vehicle. We made sure to always draw the curtains and triple-checked that doors were locked even though the camper van had an auto-lock function.

When going on a camper van road trip, be realistic with your own driving abilities. While there are more options for manual transmission vehicles, please opt for automatic transmission if you’re not comfortable driving overseas as it can get stressful driving a bigger vehicle. And please stay below the recommended speed limits. Go slower if you have to because safety is sexy 😉

5) Do you need any special licences or permits?

Not at all. A Singapore Class 3 driving licence (or equivalent) is sufficient. Singapore Driving License holders also do not need an International Driving Permit. This is mainly required for driving licences that are not in English.

Travel Essentials for Your Gold Coast Trip

Travel documents:  Visitors to Australia must apply for an  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601)* via the  Australia ETA app for AU$20. The approval took a couple of hours for us, but it’s probably best to do this upon confirming your flight details.

*Note: This applies to  ETA-eligible passport holders , including Singapore.

Connectivity:  We bought a 40GB SIM card from Optus (~S$28) with delivery to Singapore. If you didn’t plan ahead, there are kiosks at Gold Coast Airport selling Telsim SIM cards for 28 days at AU$40 for 10GB.

Insurance:  TravelCare from ~S$40.8/pax  for eight days

Transport: If you plan to spend more time on the Gold Coast without a car, the GoExplore card is a great way to get around. For AU$10 a day, you get unlimited rides on buses and trams. This can be bought at most kiosks around the city and the airport.

Camper Van Gold Coast Road Trip Itinerary for First-Timers

So there you have it, the ultimate Gold Coast road trip itinerary from the comfort of your camper van. Australia may seem expensive, but it’s possible to still manage your budget while experiencing the key highlights. After all, we managed to go surfing, see the koalas, and experience the van life for just under S$1.7k!

If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a camper van road trip, give this first-timers” Gold Coast road trip itinerary a go. After this experience, I’m hooked and will now be searching for the next longer, bigger, and more rugged camper van adventure.

Did we miss out on any things to do in our Gold Coast Road Trip itinerary? Share with us your camper van road trip tips in the comments below!

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Guide to exploring Queensland in a Campervan

Queensland is a sub-tropical stretch of land in the northeast of Australia jam-packed with natural attractions, national parks and marine parks to explore. Here you can discover the ancient rainforests of the Wet Tropics, head out to sea to experience the magic of the spawning coral of the Great Barrier Reef, and journey inland to the arid red dirt of the outback.

With so much to see and do, there is nothing quite like a campervan road trip to see the very best on offer in Australia’s sunshine state. Renting a van makes exploring this tropical paradise simple, convenient and cost-effective. With a bed and kitchen on board, there is no need for the hassle of moving in and out of hotel rooms. Instead, you can save your time and money on the incredible experiences to be had in Queensland.

Why a campervan is the best way to explore Queensland 

Queensland is the second-largest state in Australia, making long car rides and hotel transfers challenging. You can make the most of your time without those hassles with a camper. Stop when you want and stay as long as you like in each place. Regardless of whether you drive the coast or go inland to the outback of Queensland, there are plenty of reasons why a campervan is the best way to explore Queensland:

• Experience it all: In a camper; you don’t have to choose just one place. Enjoy beaches, rainforests, national parks, beautiful islands off the coast, and plenty of wildlife all in one trip.
• Lots of places to stay: There is plenty of campervan-friendly accommodation, and inland Queensland is especially friendly for van travel accommodation options.
• Toilet and shower on board: Spending your day at beaches and wilderness spots, it is handy having a toilet in the camper and a shower to wash off after your adventures. Great views Parking up in beautiful places, chances are you will experience a few sea and rainforest views out the camper's windows.
• Great views: Parking up in beautiful places, chances are you will experience a few sea and rainforest views out the camper's windows.

The best way to see and do more is with a Mighty camper 

Queensland, Australia is a campervan traveller heaven between the sunshine, attractions, and campervan-friendly accommodation. If you’re ready to rent a van to explore all the hidden gems of tropical Queensland for yourself, be sure to check out all our latest deals and book your Mighty camper today . If you’re looking for other ways to get the most out of your Australian road trip, visit our blog and download the thl Roadtrip app . For more travel inspiration, check out our Queensland itineraries .

Places to stay

Best things to do in queensland .

Burleigh Beach is nestled between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta and is a popular spot to surf the headland break. Not a surfer? No problem. Spend your days wandering along the foreshore, enjoying a picnic in the barbeque areas, grabbing a bargain at the village markets and enjoying a swim in the safe waters of the beach.

Airlie Beach is an unmissable coastal town, located in the Whitsundays region. Here you’ll be greeted with tropical weather, lively eateries and wonderful marine activities.

Woodgate is a picture-perfect sleepy seaside town with the friendliest locals. Relax by the beach, explore the surrounding national park or try your hand and kite surfing in the wide-open sea.

Surfers Paradise Beach is easily spotted with its two-kilometre stretch of golden sand against the backdrop of skyscraper buildings in the heart of the Gold Coast. Hire a surfboard and go surfing, swim along the expansive beach or wander into the foreshore precinct for food, markets and more.

Lady Elliot Island is one of the 74 islands in the Whitsundays best known for its manta rays, turtles and its commitment to sustainability. Come to this sanctuary to swim amongst over 1200 species of marine life, explore the island trails and experience the nature-rich eco-resort.

Another one of the 74 Islands in the Whitsundays is Fitzroy Island - home to the family-owned and operated Fitzroy Island Resort. On this Island, the rainforests and walking tracks are just as sought after as the surrounding ocean activities. Spend your days snorkelling, diving and exploring the reef, lapping up the idyllic white sandy beaches or hiking under the shelter of the rainforests canopy.

Heron Island has been made famous for having the largest island-based research station in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the research station on a tour to learn about the research that is conducted there, or simply surround yourself with the secluded and tranquil beauty of the island hotel.

Magnetic Island is an island 8 km offshore from the city of Townsville, Queensland and is home to Australia’s largest wild koala population. With 23 beaches, dense eucalypt forests, hidden waterfalls and a strip of eateries and accommodation to explore - grab yourself a classic topless car to explore this island in style.

Cape Hillsborough National Park is just a short drive from Mackay, Queensland and the perfect place to get up close with wallabies and kangaroos in the wild.

Explore the long lava cave system that remains at Undara Volcanic National Park . Marvel at the remnants of this volcanic eruption on the western slopes of the McBride Plateau explore the ancient lava formed caves, and meet the flora and fauna that now reside here.

Lamington National Park covers 21,176 hectares and is home to an extensive network of hiking trails amongst the native subtropical rainforests of the McPherson Range. Navigate your way through lush rainforest, across creeks and waterfalls, and take in the impressive views of the Gold Coast from one of the many lookouts dotted throughout the park.

Daintree National Park is a World Heritage-listed region comprising Mossaman Gorge and Cape Tribulation. Admire the incredible biodiversity of this region as you navigate the ancient rainforests slopes of Mossaman and the sandy beaches of Cape Tribulation on a trip you won’t forget.

Springbrook National Park is a hallmark of the Gold Coast horizon and the perfect place to escape the city to spend a day in the cool forests, tumbling creeks and impressive landscapes. A trip here wouldn’t be complete without a stop by the Natural Bridge waterfall and hanging around after dark to see the impressive display of glowworms.

For over 20 years, the Fraser Coast and the Hervey Bay area have been the stopover along the whale migration route. This makes it one of the few places in the world offering an immersive humpback whale experience. During their 10-day stopover, you have a unique opportunity to see the whales as they rest, play and socialise. However, whale watching on the Fraser Coast can be booked anytime between July and November.

If you have been dreaming of cuddling koalas , then don’t miss the chance at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary . Located in Fig Tree Pocket, just a short way from Brisbane, this sanctuary is the world’s first koala-focused sanctuary. While it was originally designed as a refuge for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas, here you can also meet over 70 species of native Australian animals.

There are only a few places in Australia where you can see and interact with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Tin Can Bay and its sheltered coast make it the perfect environment to see dolphins  in the wild. Under the supervision of Barnacles Dolphin Centre, you can stand in the water and get up close to these intelligent and playful creatures during their daily feeding tour between 7-8 am.

When in Brisbane, Queenslanders celebrate the new spring season with sunshine, flowers and the Brisbane Festival . Discover a lineup of award-winning performances, art experiences and show-stopping musical numbers across a staggering 223 locations across the city.

Carrara Markets are Australia's biggest permanent weekend markets. With over 300 market stalls covering a whopping 10 acres, you can find anything from fresh produce, homewares, pots, plants, arts and crafts, pony rides, baby animal farm, and face painting. The Village Markets is another popular boutique market held at Burleigh Heads State School.

Explore the history of mining, tools, and the mines themselves in the Hard Times Mine Underground Tour in Mount Isa. Guided by an ex-miner, you can get a real taste of what life would be like for a miner as you descend into the mine, get up close with the boom drills and mucking units, and even have the chance to try your hand at the air-leg drill.

When in Mount Isa, don’t miss a stop at Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre to discover one of the most significant fossil deposits in the world. Navigate the interactive displays and impressive dioramas of this ancient world, and have the chance to learn from palaeontological experts at the movie theatre.

Best places to stay in Queensland

Big4 rowes bay beachfront holiday park .

BIG4 Rowes Bay Beachfront Holiday Park is located on the Townsville Beachfront, just a short drive to the CBD, and is the perfect hub for a campervan trip in this region. Some of the best things to do in Townsville are at your doorstep, including the Museum of Underwater Art, the Great Barrier Reef, and Magnetic Island. This holiday park has a fully equipped camp kitchen, coin-operated laundry, and unlimited WiFi.

NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park 

The NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park is located on the adventure-packed Gold Coast and is no exception. This holiday resort features four resort-style swimming pools, pirate-themed mini golf, bouncing pillow, outdoor cinema and a licenced restaurant, and is bound to keep the whole family entertained. But that is just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in the area. Continue the thrill at Movie World, take a surf lesson at Surfers Paradise Beach and relax beach-side at this sunny coastal holiday destination.

Southside Holiday Village 

Southside Holiday Village is a caravan park lined with palms and lagoons located within 10 acres of landscaped tropical gardens, 5-minutes from Rockhampton City and only 30-minutes from Yepoon on the Capricorn Coast. There is plenty to see with a tennis court, swimming pool, free WiFi, BBQ area, camp kitchen and playground on-site, and the Capricorn Caves, Rockhampton Zoo, and Dreamtime Cultural Centre in town.

NRMA Cairns Holiday Park 

NRMA Cairns Holiday Park is the perfect budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of Cairns. With plenty of things to do in Cairns, including exploring the Butterfly Sanctuary, relaxing by one of Cairns beaches, seeking adventure at ZOOM and experiencing the very best of the Great Barrier Reef, NRMA Cairns Holiday Park is the perfect base to experience this tropical city.

Mt Isa Caravan Park is located in the heart of outback Queensland’s North-Western mining region. Spend your days exploring the Riversleigh Fossil Centre, joining a Hard Times Underground Tour, and enjoying the local scenery and wildlife. Then spend your evenings recuperating at the caravan park to cook up a meal at the camp kitchen, swim in the pool, and relaxing under the shade of the eucalyptus trees.

Things to do

Campervan itineraries in queensland.

There's so much to explore in Queensland, it's just a matter of where to start first. Check out these awesome itineraries to help you plan your next campervan adventure!

Campervan Hire Deals For Brisbane & Cairns

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Cruise along the coast from Cairns

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Conditions apply, tips for campervan travel in queensland.

The weather in Queensland can vary quite dramatically from north to south, along the coast and inland. The southern Queensland coastal towns are influenced by the warm ocean waters and tend to have four distinct seasons and more mild temperatures. In contrast, northern destinations like Townsville and Cairns tend to only have wet and dry seasons, which means year-long summer weather with wet, humid summer months.

Ensure you check the Australian weather forecast before you head off so you know what to pack and what activities you will be able to do. This will also make you aware of any other important Queensland weather and warnings such as flooding and so on.

Whether you are travelling interstate or internationally, it is essential to familiarise yourself with Queensland road rules :

• Follow the speed limit, drive on the left, be mindful of signage etc
• Watch out for wildlife - don’t approach any animals unless you know it’s safe
• Note where the road tolls are - ensure you have a pass or know how to pay online
• Pullover to take photos - it’s illegal to use a phone when driving

Queensland has some incredible free camps on offer, but it is important to be mindful of where you can and cannot free camp. In Queensland, certain areas will be signed as no overnight stays. Avoid parking in these restricted areas to save yourself a fine. Chances are there is a beautiful free camp close by for you to park up for the night.

As Queensland weather is so variable depending on when and where you travel, it's important to consider what you may want to pack for your Queensland campervan trip:

• All-weather gear: You’ll need clothes for sunshine and rain. Pack your raincoats, swimming gear, and light layers
• Skin protection: Sunscreen and bug spray are a must when spending lots of time outdoors
• Outdoor gear: You’ll be visiting beaches, so you will want your camping chairs, beach umbrellas, cooler/esky, walking shoes.
• Water bottle: It's important to bring plenty of water if you are heading to the outback

Queensland is a great place to travel any time of year, but it's worthwhile planning around peak seasons. Popular beaches and cities can become very busy and costly during the summer months. This is especially true during Queensland school holiday time when Australian families are all enjoying their weeks off.

• Questions? Talk to us now

Queensland's Natural Wonderland: A Campervan Road Trip Adventure

Welcome to Queensland, Australia's very own natural wonderland! If you're seeking an incredible campervan road trip experience, look no further. Queensland boasts a stunning array of landscapes, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to majestic mountains and vibrant reefs. Grab your keys, pack your bags, and hit the road as we take you on an unforgettable journey through the Sunshine State.

1. Pacific Coast Way

Kick off your Queensland campervan adventure with the iconic Pacific Coast Way. Stretching over 1,700 kilometres from the vibrant city of Brisbane to the tropical oasis of Cairns, this road trip route offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and hinterland charm.

Start in Brisbane, where the urban landscape meets the sea. Explore the bustling South Bank precinct, enjoy a ferry ride along the Brisbane River, and indulge in delicious culinary experiences. As you head north, make sure to stop by the Sunshine Coast, known for its golden beaches, surf breaks, and laid-back coastal towns like Noosa and Mooloolaba.

Continue your journey to the world-famous Fraser Island, the largest sand island on the planet. Cruise along sandy highways, swim in crystal-clear lakes, and marvel at the ancient rainforests that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

Further up the coast, you'll encounter the Whitsunday Islands, a paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. Hop on a sailing trip, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, and witness the breathtaking beauty of Whitehaven Beach's pristine silica sands.

2. Savannah Way

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, venture west on the Savannah Way, a 3,700-kilometre transcontinental journey that takes you through the heart of Queensland's rugged Outback. This route showcases the state's diverse landscapes, from lush tropical savannahs to expansive deserts.

Begin in Cairns and make your way through the Atherton Tablelands, where waterfalls cascade into emerald pools and charming villages beckon you to explore. As you delve deeper into the Outback, visit Undara Volcanic National Park, home to the world's longest lava tubes, and witness the incredible Curtain Fig Tree in Yungaburra.

Next, reach the famous mining town of Mount Isa, surrounded by red earth and ancient rock formations. Experience a taste of the Outback's unique culture and history at the Riversleigh Fossil Fields, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves fossils dating back millions of years.

The Savannah Way culminates in the coastal town of Karumba, where you can witness stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Carpentaria, reflecting on the end of an extraordinary road trip.

3. Great Barrier Reef Drive

For an adventure that revolves around one of the world's greatest natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef Drive is the ultimate choice. This 140-kilometre coastal road stretches from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, taking you through ancient rainforests and offering breathtaking views of the Coral Sea.

Begin your journey in Cairns, where you can dive, snorkel, or take a reef cruise to explore the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. As you continue north, you'll enter the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest and most diverse rainforests on the planet. Explore the Mossman Gorge, take a river cruise, and immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture that thrives in this region.

Cross the Daintree River on a cable ferry and reach Cape Tribulation, a place where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, converge. Enjoy beachside camping, guided nature walks, and discover unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

Final Thoughts

Queensland's natural wonders await you on an incredible campervan road trip that promises adventure, awe, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're exploring the coastal highways or venturing into the Outback, each route offers a unique perspective on this diverse and stunning state. So, get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime, where every turn of the road reveals a new marvel of Queensland's natural wonderland. Happy road tripping!

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• Best Road Trips in Australia for Campervans

Australia Road Trip Planner

18 of the best road trips in australia.

Australia Road Trip Map : Click on the route for a link to the itinerary, or browse below.

East Coast Australia Road Trips

These east coast Australia road trips combine two or more of the above road trips. Itineraries range from 1 to 7 weeks.

Cairns to Airlie Beach Drive 348 km | 7 hrs drive  | 1 - 2 weeks 4 days for the road trip plus 10 days to explore the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Brisbane to Cairns Drive 2, 177 km | 26 hrs drive | 3 - 4 weeks Explore the tropical northern stretch of the East Coast. 11 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree and Port Douglas. 

Melbourne to Brisbane Drive 2,930 km | 54 hrs drive | 5 weeks 28 days for the road trip, plus 6 days to explore Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

Sydney to Cairns Drive 3,487 km | 55 hrs drive  | 5 weeks Nearly all of the east coast. 26 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns. 

Melbourne to Cairns Drive 4,787 km | 55 hrs drive | 6 - 7 weeks Explore the entire East Coast of Australia from end to end. 30 - 40 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns.

Road Trip Around Australia

We have three key routes for a road trip around Australia. 

• The first route is a simple circumnavigation of the continent, but this misses the important central desert region with Uluru, the Olgas and Coober Pedy. 
• The second route includes central Australia and can either start in Cairns and end in Adelaide, or start in Adelaide and end in Cairns. 
• The third route builds upon the second route by looping in Broken Hill, Mungo National Park and rural New South Wales. Its start and end points are Cairns and Sydney.

Road Trips by State

Please check where our vehicles are permitted to travel before planning any trip.

• NEW SOUTH WALES
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• NORTHERN TERRITORY

Driving in Australia

Australia is larger than you might think - as large as the USA without Alaska and three quarters the size of Europe. It is also extremely diverse with everything from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the outback desert and rolling green pastures. If you jet set from city to city, you'll miss all this.

The best (and cheapest) way to experience Australia is to hire a campervan and take a road trip. That way you have the freedom to can set your own itinerary, be spontaneous, take the road less travelled, and stop where you want for as long as you want.

With a kitchen in the back seat, you can pull into a stunning location, make lunch and soak in the views. It's the most convenient, affordable and memorable way to dine. And at the end of an adventure-filled day, your home is where ever you park it. 

You will soon discover the camaraderie of the campervan community - kindred spirits who like to get off the beaten path, who appreciate the beauty of Australia, and are eager to share a few tips and their favorite camping locations with you. As Edith Wharton once said  "One of the great things about travel is you discover how many good, kind people there are."

In this Road Trip Planner we detail some of the best road trips in Australia to help you plan your campervan self-drive itinerary.

• Cairns day trips
• Atherton Tablelands & Wooroonooran National Park
• Kuranda and Barron Falls
• Cairns to Hinchinbrook Is.
• Cairns to Cooktown
• Cairns to Townsville  
• Townsville day trips
• Townsville to Cairns
• Townsville to Airlie Beach
• Queensland Outback  (Townsville - Cunnamulla - Brisbane)
• Airlie Beach to Townsville  (and Cairns)
• Airlie Beach to Brisbane  (and Gold Coast)
• Brisbane to Gold Coast
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Gold Coast day trips
• Brisbane day trips

New South Wales

• Sydney's National Parks
• Sydney's Top Walks
• Hunter Valley wine region
• Central Coast
• Port Stephens
• Blue Mountains
• South Coast
• Southern Highlands
• The Snowy Mountains
• Sydney - Melbourne Coast
• Sydney - Canberra - Melbourne
• Sydney - Gold Coast
• Broken Hill
• Canberra 
• Grampians | Murray River
• Great Ocean Road
• Mornington Pensinsula
• Phillip Island
• Wilsons Promontory
• Victorian Alps | High Plains
• Yarra Valley | Dandenongs
• Melbourne - Sydney coast
• Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney
• Melbourne - Adelaide

South Australia

• Barossa Valley wines
• Murray River
• Kangaroo Island
• Mt. Gambier
• Coonawarra wine & Naracoorte Caves
• Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
• Adelaide Hills Activities 
• Fleurieu Peninsula & Coorong
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Outback: Adelaide to Sydney
• Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip
• Adelaide to Perth Road Trip
• Coober Pedy
• Eyre Peninsula

Western Australia

• 3 days in Perth - things to do
• The Perfect WA Roadtrip (South of Perth)
• Yanchep National Park
• Pinnacles Desert
• Bunbury and Busselton
• Margaret River
• Pemberton Forests
• The Kimberley - Broome to Darwin in 6 days
• Broome to Perth in 19 days
• Perth to Adelaide in 16 days

Northern Territory

• Litchfield National Park
• The Pilbara
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)
• Mataranka Hot Springs
• Alice Springs
• Uluru and the Olgas
• Macdonnell Ranges

Other Blogs & Relevant Information

• Driving Distances and Petrol Prices
• Oz Parks Australia's Newest National Caravan & Tourist Park Chain
• Top Islands to visit in Australia
• Top Australian cultural experiences
• Top Australian animal experiences
• 7 reasons why Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia
• 10 movie locations to visit in Australia

Itineraries

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Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

The Travel Quandary

A Road Trip in Tropical North Queensland: a 5 Day Campervan Itinerary from Cairns & Back

Itinerary planner: how to spend 5 days in a Campervan Trip From Cairns

We flew into Cairns from Brisbane on a Saturday morning, greeted with cloudy skies. Hailing a cab to drop us off at the rental vehicle agency, we collected the keys for our campervan and after a 30-minute induction, we were on our way south.

Following a quick pit-stop for groceries, our first stop on our road trip was Behana Gorge Road. We were inspired by other creatives on Instagram of this narrow road in between sugar cane fields with an epic view of Walsh’s Pyramid in the background. If you follow the Bruce Highway (A1) south of Cairns, the turn off will be on your right (don’t go down Leumann Road on your left). You will pass Walsh’s Pyramid almost immediately but keep following the narrow tar-sealed road. There will be train tracks, some houses, sugar cane fields and possibly farmers on their tractors. The best viewpoint will be at the end of the long straight stretch of road before you enter the National Park.

From here, we continued driving south where we stopped for lunch at  Babinda Bakery .  The ladies behind the counter welcomed us with the warmest smiles. Go for one of their hot pies, sausage rolls or pasties. The bakery must be quite the institution and pit-stop point as the line was out the door when we visited (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays).

We then paid a visit to  Babinda Boulders.  A popular swimming hole which includes bathrooms and barbecue areas for picnics, beware of the biting sandflies! We were underprepared and even after a quick application of some insect repellent, we fell victim to their nasty bites. Unfortunately, the little critters affected our overall experience of the place and we didn’t turn down the path to  Devil’s Pool  (a 1.3km return walk) where we believe most of the boulders are for the ultimate photo experience. 

Running away from the sandflies, we drove a little further to  Josephine Falls . From the parking lot, there is a paved walking track (about 700m) and various lookout points to the falls where you can swim in the lower pools. It is recommended that you take care when clambering over the boulders. The water is fast-flowing as it snakes downstream and can make the boulders slippery.

We pulled into  Mission Beach  later that evening staying at  Mission Beach Camping & Caravan Park . If you drive through Djiru National Park, keep your eyes peeled for roaming cassowaries!

Mission Beach Camping & Caravan Park is located right on the beachfront so it was easy enough for us to set a 5am alarm, roll open the door and scuttle along the beach for a sunrise photoshoot.

After testing out our balancing skills on the bendy palm tree (a 10-minute walk south along the beach), we packed up the campervan to hit the road again. We briefly stopped to check out Bingil Bay , the hilltop in the background of the cove resembling images we’ve seen of Hawaii or even scenes from a Jurassic Park movie (hey, cassowaries look like they’re related to dinosaurs anyway!)

Continuing our drive south, we passed through the townships of Tully and Cardwell and made a small detour to check out the  Cardwell Spa Pools . Take note: from Ellerbeck Road, the road into Cardwell Forest Reserve is unsealed. It is still suitable for cars and campervans (a sign will not recommend the road for caravans) but do take care when driving along here as small stones can fly up and chip your windscreen.

Unfortunately, given the lack of rain, the Spa Pools were virtually empty. Signs and pictures at the parking lot warn against swimming during the dry season for the risk of disease. When we walked down closer to the pools, we could see that the stagnant water was full of tadpoles. If you continue to follow the road through the forest reserves, there are other scenic drives and lookout points but we opted not to visit these places.

Our main destination for Day 2 was Wallaman Falls, Australia’s largest single drop waterfall. Situated in the middle of Girringun National Park, we turned off from the Bruce Highway at Ingham. The road leading up the mountain to the falls is tar-sealed and is very windy. Fortunately, the road is wide enough for cars & campervans to comfortably pass one another. From the edge of Lannercost State Forest, the drive up the mountain will take approximately 30 – 40 minutes.

There is a lookout built at the top of the falls providing an impressive birds-eye view of the falls and the expansive valley below. You can trek down to the bottom of the falls. The distance is approximately 3.2km and it is recommended that you allow for 2 – 3 hours return (particularly if you want to go swimming). The beginning of the path is paved and includes stairs but from a certain point, it is a rocky, marked trail down to the bottom. We recommend wearing enclosed shoes (we passed many visitors wearing thongs which looked both uncomfortable and unsafe!) and packing enough water, particularly for the hike back up.

We managed to walk down in around 30 minutes. From the bottom, the roar of the water cascading down into the pool below is mesmerizing and quite breathtaking to behold. There is a small pitched area to snap photos at the end of the trail but for the more adventurous, you can carefully climb down over more boulders to go swimming and/or take more photos from another angle. Our return journey took about 45 – 50 minutes. As we visited in the afternoon, we made sure that we weren’t climbing back up in the darkness.

Our sleeping spot for the night was at the nearby  Wallaman Falls Camping Area .

We left Wallaman Falls relatively early on Day 3 to make our way back north. Driving through Cardwell and Tully again, we headed for Wooroonooran National Park on the hunt for some more waterfalls.

We joined the Palmerston Highway just south of Innisfail. Keep in mind that this road is rather windy and hilly. We would recommend leaving the Bruce Highway (around Innisfail) with a full tank of petrol as the only other petrol stations in the area which we located on Google Maps are at South Johnstone and Millaa Millaa.

The waterfall circuit close to the township of Millaa Millaa is approximately 13 kilometres on a sealed road. The first one we visited was Millaa Millaa Waterfall . A well-known and easily accessible waterhole, it was crowded when we visited in the middle of the day. For those wanting quiet photo opportunities, visiting in the morning would be the best bet! We skipped Zillie Falls and continued on to Ellinjaa Falls . The walk down to this waterfall is about 100 metres from the parking lot. The trail leads to a shallow creek and the waterfall is shaded by a canopy of trees.

The last stop for us on Day 3 was Nandroya Falls , nearby to our campsite for the night. Beware – when driving along the Palmerston Highway, there is no sign for Nandroya Falls. There is signage to the Henrietta Camp Ground so if you do end up pulling your vehicle into that side road, there is a bridge which crosses a stream to take you to the entrance of the trail anyway.

The quick route to Nandroya Falls is 2.2 kilometres. For those with more time and energy, there is a longer circuit that you can opt to complete when you roughly reach a halfway point. This option is marked on the trail. Given we were visiting quite late in the day, we completed the short route. The walk is relatively flat with only some stone steps as you come closer to the falls. We encountered no other hikers on this particular afternoon so we fortunately had the waterfall all to ourselves. Unfortunately, there are pesky sandflies around the water again but not in the same quantity that we encountered at Babinda Boulders.

It was quite ideal that we ended the day close to our sleeping spot at Henrietta Camp Ground .

We started early again on Day 4 and drove 1.5 hours to trek to Windin Falls . Heading further west on the Palmerston Highway, we then drove north on Malanda Millaa Millaa Road. Just before reaching the township of Malanda, we turned inland on Glen Allyn Road. Unfortunately, our Tom Tom navigation system did not recognise “Windin Falls” so we switched to using Google Maps on our smartphone. If you’re unable to get reception (usually you can around the towns), a good tip is to save the route in Google Maps before you lose reception and don’t close the app on your phone. The GPS will still work on the map even if you don’t have any internet connection.

The beginning of the trail is at the bend of the road where Google Maps tells you to keep going straight. There is no signage pointing to Windin Falls. Fortunately, we came across two vans and two backpackers at the trail’s starting point so we were able to confirm the correct route before setting out. We hopped out of our campervan here and started walking along a track that looked very much like a fire trail.

This was the hardest hike on our itinerary (9km round trip) and we’re glad that we completed it in the morning when we were fresh. Again, the walking trail is clearly marked (no bush bashing required) and it’s only at the end where there is some scrambling down to access the infinity pool at the top of the falls overlooking the valley. Frustratingly, you’ll be greeted by the pesky sandflies again so jump into the cool water quickly so they can’t access any exposed skin!

Our journey back towards the coast took us along route 52, Gillies Range Road, up and down the mountain range between Gadgarra National Park and Little Mulgrave National Park. Out of all the roads we travelled, this one had the most twists and turns. On the way down, we passed a horrific scene of a semi-trailer that had toppled over the edge, the vehicle lying in ruins. We urge drivers not to speed and to take extra precautions at night.

The road leads to Gordonvale where we briefly stopped for lunch. Then we pressed on north, going past Cairns before stopping to check out Clifton Beach and Palm Cove . There are signs at the beaches warning visitors of potential jellyfish and crocodiles in the water. It would be wise to pay attention to.

Our final destination for the day was Port Douglas . Approximately an hour’s drive north of Cairns, the route along the Captain Cook Highway is one of the most gobsmacking scenic drives we’ve done to date. There are a number of little coves where you can pull over for a breather or simply enjoy the salty sea breeze. Port Douglas is an excellent place to stay to access Mossman Gorge and Daintree National Park . Devastatingly, we didn’t have time to visit either of these spots on this itinerary. On a 7-day itinerary, these spots would certainly be included so hopefully, we will return one day!

We arrived in time for the perfect fairy floss sunset along Four Mile Beach before heading into town for a fish and chips dinner at The Court House Hotel . We elected to stay at Tropic Breeze Caravan Park , an ideal location close to Four Mile Beach and the main thoroughfare, Macrossan Street.

We enjoyed a sleep-in on our last morning, waking to the sounds of the birds and rustling of fellow campers. After a coffee stop at Sparrow Coffee , we spent a lazy morning wandering the shops and checking out the view from Rex Smeal Park. Then it was time to head back to Cairns. We took our time winding down the Captain Cook Highway, stopping in at Rex Lookout and Palm Cove again for ice cream from Numi (we enjoyed Chocolate & Coconut, Honeycomb and Chocolate City flavours. Absolutely delicious but also on the pricey side).

QUICK FACTS

Distance Covered: 962 kilometres

• Day 1: 174 km
• Day 2: 207 km
• Day 3: 277 km
• Day 4: 234 km
• Day 5: 70 km

Number of Steps: 62,125

Total Costs: $1,696.92

Campervan Model: Britz Double Down 4YX

Number of Days: 5

TOTAL COSTS

Flights – $767

x2 adult return airfares Brisbane – Cairns, including carbon offsets and credit card surcharge

Campervan Hire – $380

Included 5 days rental, extra driver fees and gas bottle refill ($18)

Extra items incur extra costs including: camping table and chairs, baby seats, reduction in insurance excess

Transport to Vehicle Rental Agency – $30.70

Food & Drink – $221.35

Includes groceries for 5 days, coffees, x1 dinner out, x2 beers and the odd bakery treat

Petrol (x3 refills) – $194.87

Campsites – $103

• Mission Beach – $29 (powered site)
• Wallaman Camping Ground – $13
• Henrietta Camp Ground – $13
• Tropic Breeze Caravan Park (Port Douglas) – $48 (powered site)

TOTAL – $1,696.92

Note: On this campervan trip, we opted not to buy travel insurance, including for the rental vehicle. We also chose not to pay for the Liability Reduction Option. This was a personal choice and we assessed the risk as “low” because:

• We both have open Australian Driver’s Licenses;
• We are both familiar with the road rules in Queensland, Australia;
• We both felt comfortable calling for roadside assistance and/or emergency services, if required; and
• We were not planning to partake in any extreme sports/activities.

We recommend that each individual perform their own risk and cost assessment for any trip away from home and seriously consider the need for travel insurance. Read our blog post – Travel Insurance: Should I, Shouldn’t I?

HOW TO GET TO CAIRNS

• We flew from Brisbane to Cairns return with Virgin Australia. Qantas and Jetstar also offer direct flights to Cairns from capital cities and regional areas. We chose to carbon offset our flights.
• Australian domestic flights will land at Cairns Airport Terminal 1, while international departures and arrivals are at Terminal 2.
• We booked our campervan with a local recreational vehicle rental agency (Tourism Holdings Pty Ltd) which manages a fleet of campervans and motorhomes by Britz, Mighty and Maui. The Britz campervan we rented was able to carry 4 passengers (we booked a larger vehicle as the price difference was not much and gave us a bit more room inside). It included two (2) double beds, sheets and towels, a kitchen sink, gas stove, microwave, fridge, cooking utensils, kettles (x1 gas, x1 electric), crockery and cutlery and a Tom Tom navigation system.
• The vehicle included a Standard Accident Liability Bond of $3500. This meant that we would be held liable for the cost of repairs and/or damages to the vehicle, and/or this party, up to a total of $3500. There is an option for drivers to purchase a Liability Reduction Option to reduce this liability to nil. This is something that each traveller should assess.

WHAT TO BRING

Insect repellent.

For this trip, we admittedly used Bushman’s insect repellent. We’re yet to find a DEET-free, eco-friendly repellent and will continue to scour the supermarkets and online retailers for a suitable alternative. Recommendations welcome!

Eco-friendly Sunscreen

We recently purchased a hypoallergenic, reef safe, biodegradable sunscreen. Unfortunately, we’ve found the cream of this brand to be quite greasy and heavy on the skin. We’ll continue to search for an alternative but if anyone has any other reef-safe sunscreens they can recommend, please let us know!

Toilet Paper

Surprisingly, all the public toilets that we visited during this trip, including the ones in the middle of national parks, were well stocked with toilet paper. Just in case you get caught without any, we’d recommend having a roll in the campervan.

Hand Sanitiser

For obvious reasons.

Hiking Boots

Closed in shoes are a suitable alternative for the hikes and walking trails included on this itinerary.

In the instances whereby you don’t have access to a shower, you’ll be relieved to have some of these to wipe the sweat and grime off your skin as best as you can. Some spots and camping grounds will have taps with non-potable water. We used these at both camping grounds for cold cloth showers after our hikes (in addition to the baby wipes).

Reusable Water Bottle

When driving through towns, we would often find public water fountains. We also purchased large 5L water containers to refill our reusable Avana water bottles to limit our single-use plastic consumption.

Headlamp/Torch

Jasmine is a safety nutter and will try to ensure that we’re not left hiking in the dark. A head torch is small and lightweight and keeps your hands free if you need to be outside in the middle of the night where there is no other light.

FORGOTTEN SOMETHING? READ WHAT TO PACK FOR A EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP

What to know, animals & insects.

Sandflies are vicious and can bite through insect repellent and clothing. Travelling through Tropical North Queensland in October, we found them present at Babinda Boulders, Nandroya Falls and Windin Falls.

Crocodiles may be present in the waters at certain beaches and creeks. Take notice of the signs. Do not go swimming or wading in the water (even ankle deep!) at night time.

Camping Grounds

If you plan on camping in one of Queensland National Parks’ designated campsites, you must pay and register your dates, number of people and vehicle on their website . Campsites welcome camper trailers, caravans, campervans, motorhomes and tents and provide excellent value at $6.50 per person. If caught without a tag on your vehicle, you will be subject to penalties.

Many of these designated campsites have hybrid composting toilets, sometimes a cold shower block and a tap with non-potable water.

Staying in a Caravan Park

If you plan on parking and sleeping at a caravan park, we recommend reserving a spot in advance (particularly in high season). Make sure to also check when office hours are. You want to make sure you can connect to power and have access to a hot shower!

Phone Reception

Often, there is limited to no phone reception when you go inland. Bevan is with Telstra and Jasmine is with Vodafone and we had mixed results during this trip when we went west. If you don’t have a Tom Tom or other GPS navigation system with your rental vehicle, set up Google Maps for offline use before you venture out of range.

Double check your petrol gauge before heading west off the Bruce Highway. There will be fewer petrol stations once you drive away from the coast. The campervan we hired only guzzled petrol. We found that half a tank took us about 3 – 3.5 hours driving.

Also be mindful of travelling on public holidays! Smaller, local petrol stations may not be open or will only trade for limited hours. The last thing you want is to be caught with an empty fuel tank in the middle of nowhere!

Waterfalls Galore

Thanks to Instagram but also the Internet, we had no idea about the sheer number of waterfalls in Tropical North Queensland until we begun researching and visiting them ourselves. Here is a list of several other waterfalls close to Cairns and around tropical North Queensland that you can add to your own campervan itinerary from Cairns.

• Clamshell Falls
• Davies Creek Falls
• Ellinjaa Falls
• Josephine Falls
• Nandroya Falls
• Wallaman Falls
• Windin Falls

Are you planning a road trip somewhere in Australia? Tell us all the details below!

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Motorhome, campervan and caravan hire in Queensland

Looking for a van, what's the best time to visit queensland with a campervan, caravan or motorhome hire, best destinations to visit in queensland with your motorhome, campervan or caravan hire, fraser island, sunshine coast, whitsunday islands, port douglas, noosa heads, airlie beach, hire a van in queensland: frequently asked questions, how to hire a campervan, motorhome or caravan in queensland, how much does it cost to rent a campervan, motorhome or caravan in queensland, what’s included in the van rental, how old do i have to be to hire a van in queensland, what’s required to hire or drive a van in queensland.

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The best road trips you can take in and around Queensland with a motorhome, campervan or caravan hire 

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Other great destinations

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Travel Australia By Campervan

Destination Australia

Queensland By Campervan

If you're looking for places like nowhere else, you will find them here in Queensland. From the bright lights of the Gold Coast and the million-year-old rainforests, to iconic red deserts and the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef; there's something for every traveller. Come as you are, but we guarantee after experiencing what's on offer, you'll leave a little different. 

There's so much to explore in Queensland, and the vibrant cities of Brisbane and Cairns are the perfect place to start your campervan adventure. Choose to head inland and immerse yourself in rainforests, swim under waterfalls and explore the red sands of the outback, or stick to the coast taking in the highlights of The Whitsundays, the Great Barrier Reef and every charming coastal community in between. With so much to experience, it’s the perfect place to explore by campervan. 

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Queensland must do's.

From dreamy islands, golden sand beaches, and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, Queensland plays host to an abundance of experiences that suit every appetite for adventure. Keen to tick a few things off your bucket list while in Queensland? Check out our must-do's below.

Queensland Campervan Road Trips

Home to over a thousand types of ecosystem, and five World Heritage-listed sites, you won't be short of things to see when you get outside and explore Queensland by campervan. Check out our itineraries to get started.

Queensland Travel Tips & Inspiration

Explore our Queensland travel tips below for inspiration to plan your next epic road trip.

Campervan Hire Deals For Brisbane & Cairns

Get outside and immerse yourself in Queensland, from Brisbane to Cairns and everything in between with these campervan deals. See how much you could save on your next trip.

Our Brisbane Campervan Branch

Britz Brisbane are the experts for campervan hire in Queensland. Our branch is located close to the airport, making it a great place to start your campervan rental on one of our classic Queensland itineraries.

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Our Cairns Campervan Branch

Cairns is one of Australia's well-kept gems thanks to its remote location, tropical weather and close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest living eco-system. Our Britz Cairns branch is conveniently located only 4 km from the city and the airport, providing easy pick-up and drop-off.

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Helpful Information

Visitor information.

Queensland enjoys a pleasant climate year round with a warm summer from December to February and mild winter in July and August. The southern and central coastal areas have a comfortable subtropical climate. A little further inland the southeast experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The tropical north has a distinct wet season, when you may experience some cyclone activity and a milder dry season through the winter months. Outback western Queensland is drier than the rest of the State, and winter nights can be quite cold.

What To Pack:

Casual clothing for travelling & activities and smart casual for evening dining is recommended. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, towel, swimwear, all-weather coat/jacket and a warm sweater/jacket.

Wine and Food:

Alfresco dining, hinterland vineyards and internationally recognised restaurants are awaiting you. Queensland's gourmet paradise is delectable with award-winning wines and beers, organic produce and seafood that reflect many international influences. Follow a food and wine trail and you'll be sipping on a Chardonnay or rolling a Shiraz around your mouth on a grape-fuelled adventure. Wineries are often located in picturesque settings and many offer the opportunity for picnics in grassy knolls overlooking vineyard slopes. Pick up fresh produce and make your own antipasto with olives, cheeses, nuts and avocados straight off a tree. You'll taste some of the best food in the world in Queensland and even the most discerning diner will be satisfied. With fresh barramundi, mud crab, exotic crocodile meat, mangoes and macadamia nuts…that’s how you’ll really know you're in Queensland.

Things To Do

Wildlife Experiences:

Queensland has an abundance of native Australian wildlife. Watch the progression of protected humpback whales on their journey along the coast between the Gold Coast and Whitsundays during the winter months. Queensland beaches provide excellent environments for loggerhead, flatback, green and leatherback turtles. At the beginning of summer, visit Mon Repos and quietly watch up to 20 turtles slowly progress up the beach to lay eggs. And a few months later, see the hatchlings make a perilous journey to the Pacific’s edge. Spot a platypus, or maybe another shy Australian mammal, on a guided nocturnal tour. In rural areas, you may even experience a mob of kangaroos bound through your campsite. 

Natural Attractions:

With five World Heritage listed areas and kilometres of ocean and natural landscapes, you’ll be amazed at Queensland’s preserved sites irreplaceable beauty. The 3,000 individual reefs and coral islands of the Great Barrier Reef harbour thousands of fish and marine creatures. While the rainforests of the Wet Tropics and Central Eastern Rainforest Reserves encompass the north and south of the State. Large tracks of significant dinosaur and fossil sites at Riversleigh are a testament of a former inland sea that once dominated Queensland’s Outback. Just as the giant sand dunes and perched lakes of Fraser Island depict natural wonders like no other place in the world. Nearly 5% of the huge landmass of Queensland is now protected as national park. So where will your favourite  Queensland national park walk turn out to be?

Coastal Must Do's:

On the water, splash over the surface on jet skis, banana boats and high speed ocean rafts or feel the thrill of deep seas sports fishing. Explore hidden riches in the ocean by scuba diving or snorkelling among the many shipwrecks along the Queensland Coast.

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The 10 Best Campgrounds and Camping Spots in Queensland

From the bush to the beach, pitch your tent at the best campsites Queensland has to offer!

Whether it be camping with close friends on world-renowned beaches, sleeping amongst wildlife in Queensland’s national parks or escaping into ancient rainforests by yourself, camping in Queensland is a truly unforgettable experience. Regardless of how you want to camp – beach camping, 4WD camping or even glamping – the beautiful Queensland wilderness offers something for everyone.

Thankfully, it’s never been easier to pack your tent, jump in a car, and get camping. For those looking to get back to nature, here are the 10 best campgrounds and camping spots in Queensland!

Munga-Thirri National Park

Right on the border of the Simpson Desert, Munga-Thirri National Park promises an outback camping experience unlike anything else in the sunshine state. One of the best 4WD camping sites and a truly one-of-a-kind national park campground in Queensland, Munga-Thirri lets campers sail through the rich orange sands to your heart’s content. Make sure to back plenty of water, since the rough heat can certainly wallop even the most seasoned campers.

Mount Barney Lodge

Located two hours from Brisbane, Mt Barney Lodge is one of the best camping experiences for families both big and small. Nestled within Mount Barney National Park, this shaded campground provides stunning views and easy access to the nearby mountain range. Even the youngest members of the family can partake in the Adventure Activity Program – offering rock climbing, mountain expeditions and guided tours year-round around the national park. While the campsite welcomes campervans, motorhomes, and tents, those looking for a cozier trip can book a rustic cottage, perfect for the whole family.

Sandwiched between the Daintree National Park, a World Heritage-listed natural wonder and the Great Barrier Reef, Noah Beach is one of the most scenic and unique camping spots in Queensland. Waking to the sound of the ocean before hiking the oldest rainforest in the world guarantees campers a breathtaking and one-of-a-kind experience. A three-hour drive from Cairns at Cape Tribulation, camping at Noah Beach is a must for those wanting to connect with Australia’s vast wilderness. Be sure to check availability; the camp is closed during the wet season from the first Sunday of New Year’s Day till Good Friday.

Nightfall Wilderness Camp

The definitive glamping experience in Queensland, the Nightfall Wilderness Camp, promises to give a luxurious campsite housed in a lush and vibrant forest. Unlike the rough-and-tumble most come to expect from camping, Nightfall provides a spacious tent, an untouched Lamington National Park, and the chance to relax along the nearby creek. This boutique experience, about an hour drive from the Gold Coast, will set you back quite a bit – with booking slots scarce. But if you can manage to find an availability, we guarantee that no other campground in Queensland can quite match its richness.

Jardine River

Those looking for a wild camping experience should look no further than the Jardine River campgrounds. Right on the tip of Queensland, Jardine River is a lofty 11 hour drive from Cairns. But that remoteness ensures a peaceful trip to nature, away from the stress and struggles of modern life. Wide open spaces, rough tracks and stunning scenery make this a perfect 4WD camping trip in the heart of one of Queensland’s national parks. Take a walk (or drive) on the wild side of Queensland!

Whitehaven Beach

One of the best beach camping sites in Queensland, Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Islands, offers a breathtaking experience for any would-be campers. After taking a ferry to the island, you’ll be greeted with pure white sand, the chance to canoe with the local sea life, and a cozy camp site. Enjoy an exclusive night on the soft sand, listening to the tide come in and out with your friends and family. Booking a trip to this island paradise will set you back $6.35 a night, but be quick: only 36 people can be at the campgrounds, and those slots fill fast!

Fraser Island

For nature lovers, nothing can compare to camping in the picturesque K’gari, also known as Fraser Island. This World Heritage Listed island, off the coast of Southeast Queensland, is a bastion of outdoor adventuring, including 4WD tracks, whale watching, hiking and so much more. There are several campsites across the island to choose from, but regardless of where you pitch a tent, make sure to purchase a camping and vehicle permit before landing on the island.

Tamborine National Park

Sometimes the beauty of nature is right in our backyards, just waiting to be explored. A brisk hour-long drive from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, Tamborine National Park is one of the best camping grounds in Southeast Queensland. Enjoy gorgeous waterfalls and scenic forests with friends and family for a perfect weekend getaway.

Conondale National Park

One of the best bush camping grounds in Queensland – Conondale National Parks in Southeast Queensland – is a great way to enjoy nature with close friends and families. Hidden inside the Conondale National Park, make sure to check out the Booloumba Creek and nearby waterfalls for a lush sight of nature’s beauty. The four-day long, 56-kilometre Conondale Range Great Walk is a great way to stretch your legs in a luscious forest.

The Wrecks, Moreton Island

One of the best kept secrets in Queensland, the Tangalooma Wrecks is a camping location unlike anything you’ve seen before. Fifteen ships hollowed out ships grace the side of Moreton Island, giving an almost eerie atmosphere. But, in fact, those giant metal skeletons house clusters of stunning coral reefs, making for a one-of-a-kind snorkelling destination. Just off the coast of Southeast Queensland, make sure to explore the rest of Moreton Island and its rich wildlife, pitch white beaches and unforgettable camping grounds.

We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

Hoping for an adventure? Here are 10 Unique Getaway Gems to Discover around Queensland . Or ditch the tent and instead check into the 8 Most Luxurious Seaside Hotels across Queensland.

This article was first published on Jan 22 2022. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on Jul 29 2024.

Feature image: photographed by shutter_o. image via shutterstock..

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