Brisbane to Noosa

Once you’ve arrived in the vibrant city of Brisbane, and you’ve picked up your maui campervan, why not spend a little extra time discovering the city? There is an endless list of fun and interesting things to do in this city, one of which is taking a stroll through the Roma Street Parkland. Known for its incredible gardens, vast green spaces and perfect picnic spots, this parkland is the perfect spot to take a moment to chill out before you set off on your road trip.

Nature lovers will also love to visit the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens where picturesque walking trails guide you along and through the spectacular gardens. If you’re wanting to learn a little more about the area, as well as be amazed by some incredible exhibits, then stop in at the Museum of Brisbane that is sure to impress the whole family! If you’re feeling hungry and want to head to the coast, then stop in at the Manly Boathouse where you can enjoy a delicious meal whilst overlooking Moreton Bay.

After a day exploring Brisbane and the surrounding areas, you’re going to want a nice and relaxing place to park up your maui campervan. The Brisbane Holiday Village is our go-to. Located around 10km from the city centre this holiday park has a range of campsites to choose from, as well as great facilities and on-site activities such as a mini-golf course and water park!

The drive from Brisbane to Mount Alford is a lovely scenic drive through the countryside from which you can take in the picturesque views along the way.

Those looking for some sweet holiday snaps will love the chance to capture the fields of lavender at Kooroomba Lavender Farm at Mount Alford. This is a stop that will have all your senses tingling. You'll find plenty of space to park up, hang out and take in the view over the Great Dividing Range. Then, you'll get a whiff of all things lavender. Make sure you come along hungry, too, as the restaurant boasts plenty of tasty options to enjoy. We love the fresh lavender scones with a cuppa, and no one should leave without sampling the lavender ice cream. Once you've had your fill, don't forget to stop in at the cellar door for a bottle of wine or two to pop in the fridge for later. You'll find plenty of lush lavender goodies in the gift shop. Find something as a gift for yourself or someone you care about. What about treating yourself to a sachet of lavender under your pillow while you’re on the road? Bliss!

Another great spot to check out in the area is the Bunjurgen Estate Vineyard. This family-owned winery is known for its award-winning wines, and visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and sample some of the delicious wines on offer.

If you're looking to stay overnight in the area, Lake Moogerah Camping is a great option. The campground is located on the shores of Lake Moogerah and is a great base for exploring the local area, with plenty of hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor activities nearby.

The journey from Mount Alford to Ipswich is an easy, scenic drive that should take less than an hour, and once you get to Ipswich, there are some great options of things to see and do.

The Queens Park is a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, as it features a beautiful botanical garden, a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, such as music concerts and cultural festivals, be sure to check out their website to see what’s on when you’re in town!

The Ipswich Art Gallery is another great attraction, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions and a range of interactive activities for visitors of all ages. Plus, the gallery is open seven days a week and is free to enter, adding even further to the appeal!

Those searching for a unique shopping experience should stop by the Springfield Markets which offer a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. They are open every Friday and Saturday and are a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

The Ipswich Caravan Village is our go-to and makes the perfect rest stop for your maui campervan. The park offers powered and unpowered sites, as well as great facilities including a swimming pool, playground, BBQ area, and laundry facilities. It’s also conveniently located close to the city centre and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

Dreaming of catching some waves, a lazy afternoon fishing, a day cruising or spotting some of Australia's unique wildlife? You'll find plenty of options to keep you and the whole family busy (or not!) on Bribie Island. Connected to the mainland by a bridge and around two hours’ drive from Ipswich, allow yourself to be delighted by the white sandy beaches, national parks and (usually) gorgeous weather that makes this such an idyllic first stop.

After a few hours on the road you’re going to want to dip in the sea and Bongaree Beach is our go-to. This beach is a great spot to soak up some sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters, before indulging in some fish and chips on the beach while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

For those who love outdoor activities, the Bribie Island Bicentennial Trail is an excellent option. This trail is approximately 25 km long and takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands.

Market lovers should check out the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre weekly market. Here you can browse and buy locally made arts and crafts, clothing, and jewellery as well as enjoy a delicious bite to eat.

A visit to the Bribie Island Butterfly House is a must for nature lovers. This unique attraction is home to hundreds of colourful butterflies, as well as a range of other insects and birds. Visitors can take a guided tour of the butterfly house and learn about the life cycle of these beautiful creatures.

When it comes to accommodation for your maui camper, the Big4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort is a fantastic option. This family-friendly resort is situated in a prime location, boasting stunning views of the Pumicestone Passage and offers easy access to local attractions and activities.

The drive from Bribie Island to Kilcoy is a lovely scenic drive that takes you through rolling hills and farmland, and has plenty of opportunity to stop and take in the beautiful countryside along the way.

Yow-what? Quiet and quaint, Kilcoy gained notoriety back in 1979 for its reported Yowie sighting at Sandy Creek. Not sure what a Yowie is? You'll have to visit to find out! The Yowie legend dates back generations, but just like Bigfoot, no conclusive evidence supports any recent sightings. Explore the entire park, and you might be the first to see a Yowie in, well, ages! Best known for its Yowie statue, Kilcoy Park offers a lush oasis on a hot day. Relax in the park for a spot of bird-watching, or wander around the lilypond complete with turtles, plus there’s a playground for the kids. Anyone not wanting to hunt a Yowie will find plenty of boutique shopping, a handful of wineries and a certain country charm that awaits them at Kilcoy.

For those who enjoy wine,Woongooroo Estate Winery is a must-visit destination. Located in the scenic countryside near Kilcoy, this family-owned winery produces a range of award-winning wines, including Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Merlot. Visitors can sample the wines and enjoy a picnic on the beautiful grounds.

If you're looking for a place to stay in the area, NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park is where we love to book into. The park is located on the shores of Lake Somerset and features a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, and even a boat ramp!

Less than an hour’s drive from Kilcoy will have you at Coochin Creek, which is an area surrounded by lush native forests, as well as spectacular mountains.

The eleven peaks of the Glass House Mountains are home to a vast selection of walking and hiking tracks, horse trails and jaw-dropping views that will make any climbing worthwhile! As soon as you arrive, it will become apparent why the Glass House Mountains are listed on the National heritage register as a landscape of national importance. Visitors will quickly sense why this is a special place where Aboriginal people have gathered to trade and partake in ceremonial activities. Head to Mount Ngungun for an easy walk to the summit, and don't forget your camera for the spectacular sunset views.

Maui Tip: If a summit at sunset isn’t your thing, head to the Pineapple Fields near Beerwah and experience golden hour in golden pineapple fields.

Australia Zoo is another must-do, especially for those with kids! Anyone familiar with Steve "the Crocodile Hunter" Irwin will likely have heard of Australia Zoo. It shouldn't come as any surprise that the genuine love of animals lies behind its development. You might not spot Terri, Bindi and Bob, on your visit (although, you might too!) but, you're guaranteed to find a wide range of animals displayed in really appropriate and respectful ways. No matter what animals the kids are into right now, we reckon the big cats and the croc show can't be missed. It’s free to park up at the Zoo directly, or leave your motorhome plugged in at a powered site nearby and take a coach from the Sunshine coast.

When it’s time to park up for the night, stop in at the Coochin Creek campsite that has basic amenities within a beautiful natural setting, perfect for your maui camper!

The drive from Coochin Creek to Mooloolaba will take you through scenic areas with beautiful views of the coast and countryside and is sure to be a joyful ride.

As you approach Mooloolaba, you will first come across The Wharf Mooloolaba, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here you can find a range of restaurants and cafes, boutique shops, and even the popular Sea Life aquarium! The wharf also offers various water-based activities such as deep-sea fishing, whale watching, and canal cruises for those after a more action-packed experience.

Another must-visit attraction in Mooloolaba is the Point Cartwright Lighthouse. This iconic lighthouse is perched on top of a hill and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can take a short walk up to the lighthouse and enjoy the scenery or even take a picnic to enjoy the lookout.

When it’s time to cool off and soak up some sunshine, you can head to the patrolled Mooloolaba Beach to swim, sunbathe and surf.

Got a sweet tooth, or want to induce envy on social media? You'll want to visit the Kenilworth Country Bakery! Home of the 1Kg Donut Challenge and Australia's first coffee in a donut, Kenilworth Country Bakery caters to those of us with a sweet tooth! Don't fret though, those without one are well looked after, with a selection of pies and wraps. Living the vegan or gluten-free lifestyle? You're covered too! Bring a friend, bring your camera and bring your stretchiest pants - you're going to need them to get through all these treats. Get in early, as once they sell out, they'll shut up shop.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Mooloolaba, the Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park is a great option. This park has great campsites to mark your maui camper at, and is ideally located just a short walk from the beach and other attractions.

As you make your way from Mooloolaba to Noosa Heads, you’ll pass through several charming coastal towns and villages including Alexandra Headland, Maroochydore, and Coolum Beach, each of which offers its own unique attractions and experiences.

Once you arrive in the beautiful Noosa Heads, you’ll be spoilt for choice of things to do. The Noosa National Park has one of Australia's most beautiful walks that follows along the sea and through a range of gorgeous vegetation. Enjoy coastal walks, rainforest treks, woodland wanders and soft sand beneath your feet. Many of the tracks start and end at Noosa Headland, which offers a superb spot for a picnic or a bit of wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins in the water and koalas in the trees!

No holiday is complete without that one unique experience that you tell your friends and family about. And no visit to the sunshine coast is complete without a trip to the Noosa Everglades. Known for its mirror-like water (there's even a section called the mirror river!), the tropical wetland is one of only two everglades systems in the world. Quiet, calm and rejuvenating, a day on the glades allows that time for peaceful reflection. It puts you right in the heart of nature and amongst the wildlife. If you're looking to take it easy, jump on a boat tour. Sit back, relax and take it all in. Otherwise, choose a Canoe n' Cruise or Kayak tour for an idyllic way to enjoy a truly unique Australian experience.

When you’re feeling like a delicious bite to eat, at an iconic Noosa venue, then a trip to the Noosa Boathouse restaurant and bar. With stunning views of the Noosa River and serving up fresh seafood and other delicious dishes, this will be a dining experience to remember.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Noosa, the Big4 Ingenia Holidays Noosa is a great option. It is located in the heart of Noosa and has great facilities including a swimming pool, playground, BBQ area, and free Wi-Fi.

After what is sure to be a blissful time in Noosa, it’s time to head south towards Redcliffe, which will be an easy highway drive. Along the way, drivers will pass through several towns and scenic areas, including the Glass House Mountains and the Moreton Bay region.

Once in Redcliffe, there are several popular attractions to visit, including Scarborough Park, which offers stunning ocean views, playgrounds, picnic areas, and BBQ facilities. Another popular attraction is Settlement Cove Lagoon, a man-made lagoon with a safe swimming area for families and children. Sutton's Beach is another great spot to visit, with a long stretch of sandy beach, playgrounds, picnic areas, and plenty of water activities like swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. And for those interested in local history, the Redcliffe Museum is a must-visit, featuring exhibits on the area's indigenous and colonial history.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Redcliffe, the Redcliffe Showgrounds Caravan Park is our go-to. It offers affordable campsites for your maui camper, as well as great facilities and prime location.

After what is sure to be a wonderful road trip, it’s time to head back to the city of Brisbane which will be an easy drive and a perfect opportunity to reflect on the lovely days of travel up the coast. If there are any last minute things you want to see or do in Brisbane this is your perfect chance, as well as stop in at one of the drool-worthy cafes, eateries or restaurants for a bite to eat, before dropping your campervan off at the conveniently located maui branch.

Ready for your next adventure?

So there you have it, our Brisbane to Noosa travel itinerary. Of course, there are many more places you can stop into on your drive up north, as well as many more incredible experiences to be had along the way. If you want even more travel inspiration, then be sure to check out our other travel blogs and travel tips on our website. Plus while online you can book your maui camper as well as see all the travel deals on offer.