Best places to visit between Brisbane and Cairns

There are so many incredible things to see and do in Australia. Our favourite way to do this, of course, is on an Australian road trip. Being out on the open road, doing things on your own time, and discovering hidden gems along the way is what makes a road trip in a motorhome or campervan unbeatable. When it comes to great adventures, Queensland is up there with the best. There are so many things to do in Queensland to suit every traveller. This blog is going to outline some of the best places to visit between Brisbane and Cairns. Whether you do the whole road trip from Brisbane to Cairns, or a shorter trip, this blog is loaded with great spots to see along the way, making your travel itinerary planning all the easier.

 

But first, what’s the best way to travel between Brisbane and Cairns? 

Before we get into all the juicy details of where to go and what to do, first we want to let you in on why travelling in a campervan hire is so great. You see, when you hire a Mighty Camper, you’re able to design your trip around exactly what you want to do and when you want to do it. Plus, if plans change along the way, that doesn’t matter because you’re not on anyone’s schedule other than your own. You’ve got no hotels waiting for you to check in or airports you need to get to on time. Another thing is that your Mighty Camper is set up with all you need to prepare delicious meals from your home on wheels, so you also save money on eating out all the time. Sounds pretty great right?! Along your trip you’ll also come across some free camping spots, usually in spectacular locations, making those life-long travel memories all the better.

 

 

The best places to stop between Brisbane and Cairns 

Sunshine Coast 

After enjoying all the top things to do in Brisbane and the incredible Brisbane activities and attractions, it’s time to hit the road and travel north. First on our list is the ever-popular Sunshine Coast. Known for its beautiful beaches, breathtaking hinterland, popular cafés, drool-worthy dining scene and friendly locals, this is a must-stop on your road trip. Not only is it full of great things to do and see, it’s also an easy 1.5-hour drive out of Brisbane, making it a great first stop. There are some great attractions to experience here, including the world-famouss Australia Zoo. Here you can get up close and personal with incredible native wildlife including kangaroos, koalas and birds, as well as witness live croc shows and swimming tigers. Another popular thing to do on the Sunshine Coast is take a stroll along the Mooloolaba Foreshore Boardwalk. This relaxing walk invites you to take in the sweeping ocean views, watch the surfers catching waves, and go for a dip at the patrolled beach before wandering up to the shops for a coffee or ice cream.

 

Noosa

A little further north along the coast you’ll come to the beautiful coastal town of Noosa. Noosa is well-known for Hastings Street, which runs along the Noosa Main Beach, and has a wonderful shopping and dining scene. From here you can drive a little further along to thee Noosa National Park where a stroll along the Coastal Track is a must! Here lush national park borders stunning coves and beaches that invite you to dive on in after the scenic walk. There are a host of otherr great things to do and see in this town including taking a sunset cruise along the Noosa River, or visiting the Noosa Farmers Markets if you’re in town on a Sunday.

 

Bundaberg

Next up on your road trip from Brisbane to Cairns is the town of Bundaberg. This area is known as the spot where the beach meets the reef with the start of the Great Barrier Reef just off the coast. It’s also where an abundance of turtles call home when they come to nest. The local restaurants and shops are filled with fresh local produce, and of course, this is the home of the world-famous Bundaberg Rum. There are a seemingly endless list of activities and sights to experience while here. You can learn all about turtles, as well as swim alongside them and even witness their eggs hatch at Mon Repos. A trip to Bundaberg wouldn’t be complete without a trip to their world-famouss Bundaberg Rum Distillery. Here you can take a tour to see how this smooth rum is created, as well as purchase a bottle (or two) from their full range. If a dip in the ocean is calling you then drive over to Bargara Beach where calm blue waters and golden sands are ready and waiting for you. There is a boardwalk you can wander along, as well as kids playgrounds, cafes and eateries to refuel at.

 

Rockhampton

After Bundaberg we recommend stopping in at Rockhampton. From world-class mountain bike trails and trophy-sized Barramundi fishing, to treetop boardwalks and ancient caves, there is something for everyone in this wonderful region. With so many great experience to be had here, we thought we name just a few of our favourites. A visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village will have you feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time. The village portrays life in the region between the 1850s to the 1950s. With original and reproduction buildings, as well as memorabilia and artefacts, there is so much to marvel at. The Rockhampton Zoo will be a great day out for the whole family and has free entry. With almost 100 animals on show, and nestled within the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, this is a great addition to every travel itinerary when in this region. If fishing is on your road trip want-to-do list then this is the place to cast out a line! With trophy-sized Barramundi and King Threadfin calling the Fitzroy River home, you’re in for a treat! There are also some great walks to enjoy while in Rockhampton, one of which is the Rockhampton Riverside walk. This boardwalk juts out over the Fitzroy River and offers spectacular views of the river and distant Mount Archer National Park.

 

Sarina

If you’re looking for a lovely little spot to stop in at on your road trip to Cairns from Brisbane, then the charming seaside town of Sarina is a must. This classic Aussie coastal town has a beautiful beach to cool off in, great eateries serving up freshly caught fish and chips and a friendly vibe. A walk and swim along Sarina Beach will be a great idea after the drive from your previous stop, followed by a visit to the Field of Dreams Parkland. This place invites you to discover the historical and educational attractions on offer including the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre, the Sarina Historical Centre and the Yukan Art Gallery. The Sarina Sugar Shed is also located here and offers visitors a sugar mill and distillery experience to remember. If you feel like a little detour to get lost in nature then a trip to Eungella National Park is a must. This national park is one of Queensland’s most ecologically diverse parks and will amaze you as you venture up the mountains to take in the mist-shrouded views.

 

Wallaman Falls

Wallaman Falls are truly an incredible sight to see. This is Australia’s highest waterfall and drops around 305 meters down an awe-inspiring rock face. Easily accessible with your Mighty Camper, we highly recommend following one of the scenic walks along to the bottom of the falls where a swim in the fresh water is a must. It can be a little slippery so take caution, but trust us, it’s worth it!

 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Kuranda

Next up on your trip from Brisbane to Cairns is the breathtaking mountain town of Kuranda. Here the world’s oldest living rainforest and incredible waterfalls surround the cute, charming and colourful village that is ready and waiting to be explored. The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a great way to see the area on a railway ride unlike anywhere else in the world. It take around 2 hours each way, crossing deep gorges, passing by roaring waterfalls and through lush rainforests. Baron Gorge National Park is another great sight to see while here. The spectacular waterfalls that cascade down these mountains are awe-inspiring. This truly is a must-do and unforgettable stop to add to your road trip itinerary.

 

Mossman Gorge

Chances are if you’ve done your research on must-see places in Queensland, the spectacular Mossman Gorge would have come up. Situated around 20km from Port Douglas, and easily accessible with your Mighty Camper, this is a swimming spot you’ll never forget. The crystal clear swimming holes invite you in to cool off from the tropical heat. Granite boulders frame the water and the surrounding lush rainforests create a magical feel. The water is fresh and you can swim year-round, making it a wonderful addition to every road trip itinerary. After what is sure to be an incredible adventure here, it’s time to head to Cairns to enjoy all the things to do in Cairns, as well as the Cairns attractions and activities, of which there are plenty!

 

Ready for your Brisbane to Cairns escape? 

So there you have it, out top places to stop in at on your road trip from Brisbane to Cairns. Of course, there are so many more places to be discovered along the way, and that’s the beauty of a road trip. If you’re feeling inspired and ready to hit the road on a road trip, then head online or into a branch and book your Mighty Camper!