Breathtaking Brisbane to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

Day one of the road trip starts off at the maui Brisbane branch, which is conveniently located close to the airport and transport options. Once you’ve picked up your campervan, you can then hit the road and start your journey south.

The first destination on the road trip itinerary planner is the Gold Coast, and along the way there is one stop that we love to detour to. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible sanctuary that offers a chance to get up close and personal with Australia's unique wildlife. From cuddly koalas to colourful lorikeets, you'll have a blast exploring their natural habitats!

Once you arrive on the Gold Coast, get ready for some serious fun in the sun. The golden beaches are perfect for soaking up the rays or taking a refreshing dip in the sparkling ocean. You can take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Esplanade, then stop in at one of the popular eateries for a bite to eat, before exploring the boutique shops. For a breathtaking view of the coastline, head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. It's the tallest building in Queensland, and from there, you can admire panoramic vistas of the stunning Gold Coast skyline!

When it's time to settle in for the night, we love staying at the BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park. With its fantastic powered camping sites, great campsite facilities, and a central location, it's the perfect basecamp for your Gold Coast adventure.

The van travel road trip continues and next stop is the popular coastal town of Byron Bay. Along the way, a detour and visit to the breathtaking Springbrook National Park is always a wonderful idea. This stunning natural wonderland is home to lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and incredible views. When here, don’t miss the chance to explore the famous Natural Bridge and its illuminated glow worms!

Once you arrive in Byron Bay, get ready to kick back and relax on its world-renowned beaches. Whether you're a surfer or just looking to soak up the sun, the beaches here have something for everyone. Make sure to visit the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to spot dolphins or migrating whales. To get a taste of the local culture, explore the vibrant markets in Byron Bay. You'll find an array of handmade crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food on offer.

Then, after a day of adventure, unwind at First Sun Holiday Park, which offers lovely campsites and is conveniently located near the beach and town centre.

Heading further south on the road trip will have you at the town of Coffs Harbour. This is a slightly longer drive with some great stops to visit along the way. One of them is the unique and bohemian town of Nimbin. Known for its alternative lifestyle and vibrant arts scene, Nimbin offers a colourful experience with its hippie vibe and quirky shops. It's definitely worth a visit to soak in the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts!

Once you arrive in Coffs Harbour, there are two attractions that stand out. The Big Banana amusement park is a must-visit, offering fun activities like mini-golf, water slides, and a thrilling toboggan ride. For those interested in marine life, the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is a fantastic choice. You can get up close and personal with dolphins, seals, and even penguins!

When it's time to rest your head, we love to stay at the BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park. With its convenient location near the beach and excellent facilities on offer, it's the perfect place to unwind as you enjoy your time in Coffs Harbour.

The next stop on this Brisbane to Melbourne road trip is the town of Port Macquarie. Of course, there are some great places to see along the way, including the picturesque Bellingen Valley. Known for its charming village atmosphere, art galleries, and cafes, we’re sure you’ll love breaking up the drive here! Another interesting stop is the historical Trial Bay Gaol, where you can learn about its fascinating past and enjoy stunning coastal views.

Once you reach Port Macquarie, be sure to take some time to relax on its beautiful beaches. Whether you're looking for a spot to soak up the sun or catch some waves, Port Macquarie has you covered. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Koala Hospital, where you can see these adorable creatures up close and learn about their conservation efforts.

When it comes to places to park your maui camper, staying at the NRMA Port Macquarie Holiday Park is one of our go-to’s. With great campsites and facilities, it promises a relaxing and comfortable stay.

The road trip continues south, and the next stop on the adventure is the seaside town of Newcastle. Along the way, make sure to include a stop at the breathtaking Myall Lakes National Park. This stunning park is a nature lover's paradise, with pristine lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic trails, enjoy a picnic by the water, or simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Once you arrive in Newcastle, get ready to indulge in its vibrant food and art scene. Treat your taste buds to a range of culinary delights at the city's trendy cafes and restaurants. Art enthusiasts can explore the numerous galleries and street art displays that adorn the city's laneways. If you're a beach lover, Newcastle won't disappoint. Head to one of the many beautiful beaches, such as Nobby's Beach or Merewether Beach, and soak up the sun or catch some waves. Then, for a dose of history and culture, visit the Newcastle Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich heritage and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits.

We love to stay at the BIG4 Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach when in the area. This family-friendly holiday park is conveniently located near the beach and has great campsites, perfect for your maui camper.

Next up on the road trip adventure is the Central Coast! To break up the drive we suggest stopping in at Lake Macquarie to take in the spectacular lake views, enjoy a picnic lunch and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive on the Central Coast, get ready to unwind on the pristine beaches that dot the coastline. Whether you're into swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the sand, there's a beach for everyone's taste. For nature enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to explore Bouddi National Park. With its stunning coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush rainforest, it's a haven for outdoor lovers. There are hiking trails and lookout points to discover, providing breathtaking views that are sure to leave you in awe.

When it's time to camp up for the night, we love staying at NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort. It offers comfortable campsites, a range of amenities, and a convenient location near the beach, making it an ideal base for your Central Coast adventure.

 From the Central Coast it’s then onto the vibrant city of Sydney. There is a must-visit destination along the way which is the breathtaking Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. This beautiful park is a hidden gem, offering stunning landscapes, scenic walking trails, and an abundance of wildlife. Take a break from the road, immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Once you arrive in Sydney, get ready to experience the city's iconic landmarks. Take a stroll around the Sydney Opera House, a world-renowned architectural masterpiece. Don't forget to snap some photos of the majestic Harbour Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the city. And of course, a visit to Sydney wouldn't be complete without spending some time at the famous Bondi Beach. Enjoy the sun, surf, and vibrant atmosphere!

A stay at NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park will be the perfect addition to your time in Sydney. With beautiful lake views, modern amenities, grassy campsites and close proximity to cafes and beaches, this promises to be a great stay when in Sydney.

 Next up on the road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne is the coastal town of Jervis Bay. Along the way, make sure to stop at the famous Kiama Blowhole. This natural wonder never fails to impress with its powerful spurts of water shooting up from the rocks. It's a great spot for a quick photo opportunity, as well as a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic lunch or takeaway fish and chips.

Once you arrive in Jervis Bay, get ready to soak up some sun on its pristine beaches. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, white sands, these beaches are simply breathtaking. If you're visiting between May and November, don't miss the opportunity to go whale watching. These majestic creatures migrate along the coast, and Jervis Bay offers excellent vantage points to witness their awe-inspiring displays. For nature lovers, a visit to Booderee National Park is a must. Here you can explore its diverse ecosystems, take bush walks to spot native wildlife, or simply relax in the tranquillity of nature.

When it's time to park up for the night, we like to stay at Jervis Bay Holiday Park. It offers great campsites and campsite facilities, as well as a central location.

From Jervis Bay, it’s then onto Batemans Bay! To break up the drive we love to stop in at the picturesque Murramarang National Park. This stunning coastal park offers breathtaking views, pristine beaches, and lush bushland to explore. Take a leisurely walk along the park's trails, keeping an eye out for native wildlife and colorful bird species.

Once you arrive in Batemans Bay, there's plenty to keep you entertained. Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with ample opportunities to cast a line and reel in some fresh catches. If you prefer being on the water, consider renting a boat and enjoying a leisurely cruise along the bay. For animal lovers, a visit to the Mogo Zoo is a must. This privately-owned zoo is home to a wide variety of exotic animals, including lions, giraffes, and meerkats. You can even book close encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences for a truly memorable visit.

When it's time to camp up for the evening, the NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort offers comfortable campsites right on the beach. Enjoy the ocean views, relax by the pool, or take advantage of the resort's facilities and activities.

Continuing south of the road trip will have you at the town of Merimbula. To break up the drive we love to stop in at the charming coastal town of Narooma. While here you can stretch your legs and take a stroll along the stunning coastline, soak in the scenic views from the Narooma Golf Club, or visit the famous Australia Rock formation. Another great place to stop in is the Mimosa Rocks National Park. This picturesque park boasts beautiful beaches, stunning headlands, and peaceful picnic spots. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic and connect with nature.

Once you arrive in Merimbula, there's plenty to do for every type of traveller. Make the most of the beautiful beaches, where you can relax, swim, or try your hand at surfing. If you're into fishing or kayaking, the Merimbula Lake offers great opportunities. And don't miss the chance to visit the Merimbula Aquarium, where you can explore an array of fascinating marine life.

For accommodation for you and your maui camper, a stay at the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort won’t disappoint. They offer great campsites, family-friendly facilities, and a convenient location close to the beach.

After what is sure to be a lovely time in Merimbula, it’s then onto the next destination, Lakes Entrance. Along the way we suggest stopping off and exploring the stunning Croajingolong National Park. This hidden gem is a nature lover's paradise, with its pristine beaches, rugged coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Take a leisurely hike through the park's scenic trails, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views with a picnic lunch from your maui camper.

Once you arrive in Lakes Entrance, there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Enjoy the tranquil lakes that give the town its name, and indulge in fishing, boating, or even a relaxing cruise. For beach enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to explore the iconic Ninety Mile Beach, where you can stroll along its endless stretch of golden sands.

When it's time to unwind, settle in at BIG4 Whiters Holiday Village for a comfortable stay. With its great campsites and fantastic amenities, including pools, playgrounds, and BBQ facilities, it's the perfect base to recharge and make the most of time in Lakes Entrance.

The final destination of this great Australian road trip is, of course, the city of Melbourne. Along the way, we highly recommend taking a detour to visit Wilsons Promontory National Park. This stunning coastal park boasts pristine beaches, breathtaking hikes, and abundant wildlife that will amaze and delight at every turn.

Once you arrive in Melbourne, there's plenty to see and do for every type of traveller. Along with the many popular cafes, eateries and restaurants, there are some great activities to enjoy. Make sure to visit the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens, where you can wander through beautiful landscapes and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. If you're up for a scenic adventure, consider driving along the world-famous Great Ocean Road, which offers breathtaking coastal views.

You’re going to want to spend a night or two in Melbourne to experience as much as possible, so we suggest checking into the BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park. With great campsites and modern amenities, it will be the perfect base for your time in Melbourne.

When it's time to return your maui camper, you can drop it off at the conveniently located maui Melbourne branch, where the friendly staff will be ready to welcome you and ensure a hassle-free end to your road trip.

Want to try this road trip itinerary? (H2)

So there you have it, our guide to a breathtaking Brisbane to Melbourne road trip that we think you’re going to absolutely love. Of course, there are so many more incredible places to see along the way, as well as things to do, but we hope that this road trip travel itinerary will make your holiday planning all the easier.

If you’re ready to get out there and start exploring Australia, be sure to head online or into a maui branch to book your camper today!