Gold Coast to Springbrook National Park

This road trip starts off in the bustling and vibrant city of Brisbane as that is where the maui Camper branch is conveniently located. There are so many things to do in Brisbane, so this is the perfect excuse to spend a little time discovering all the wonderful Brisbane activities and attractions on offer.

One great free thing to do in Brisbane is to visit the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. These gardens are located right in the heart of the city, and offer a stunning and peaceful oasis of greenery. The gardens are free to enter and offer a great place for a relaxing walk or picnic. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the various plants and trees.

Another top thing to do in Brisbane is take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane. This giant Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city skyline and Brisbane River. Each cabin has air-conditioning and provides a comfortable ride, and the experience is especially magical at sunset.

A visit to the Museum of Brisbane is a must! This museum showcases the history and culture of Brisbane. It has a range of exhibits and interactive displays that are perfect for both adults and children and also offers guided tours and special events throughout the year.

If you’re into art and culture then you’re going to want to visit the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. This is one of the most impressive art galleries in Australia, with an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Plus, the gallery is free to enter and also features a cinema, library, and cafe to refuel at.

When searching for the perfect picnic spot to go for a stroll in nature, then a visit to South Bank Parklands is sure to impress. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby, and the parklands also offer a range of activities such as swimming, cycling, and rollerblading.

After all of this exploring, you’ll probably want to relax and unwind for the evening before setting off the next day. We love staying at the Brisbane Holiday Village, as it's a fantastic place to base yourself while you explore the city. The village offers plenty of facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant, as well as great campsites for your campervan or motorhome.

The drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast is a picturesque one, with stunning views of the coast and the hinterland. As you head south on the M1, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the ocean, lush rainforest, and rolling hills.

Once you arrive, there's no shortage of Gold Coast things to do and see, including popular Gold Coast tourist attractions.

Start by visiting the Coolangatta art and craft market, which is held every second Sunday of the month. You'll find an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, art, and local produce, all while enjoying the sea breeze and live music.

Next up, head to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can get up close and personal with some of Australia's most iconic wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles. The sanctuary also offers a range of interactive experiences, such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

If you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll, Nobby's Beach is the perfect spot. This charming beachfront village is home to a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, as well as a picturesque beach perfect for soaking up the sun.

For a bird's eye view of the Gold Coast, head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck, located on the 77th floor of the Q1 Building. From here, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and hinterland, and even as far as the border of New South Wales!

When it's time to rest your head, look no further than the Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park. This family-friendly park is in a great central location and has plenty of facilities on offer to keep the kids entertained including a water park, jumping pillow, and mini-golf course.

 Next up on the road trip is a visit to the Springbrook National Park, and trust us when we say, you’re in for a real treat! The drive takes you through some stunning scenery, and the park itself is a natural wonderland full of things to see and do. The drive from the Gold Coast to Springbrook National Park takes around an hour, and the road winds through lush rainforest and past some picturesque towns. Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing views along the way, a perfect opportunity to pull over, stretch your legs and get some photos!

Once you reach the park, make sure to visit the famous Natural Bridge. This unique rock formation is carved by a creek that runs through a cave, and it's a must-see for any visitor to the park. You can also take the Twin Falls circuit, a 4km hike that takes you past some breathtaking waterfalls and through the park's lush rainforest. If you're lucky, you might spot some of the rare wildlife that call the park home. Look out for pademelons, koalas, and the elusive Albert's lyrebird. And if you visit at night, make sure to take a flashlight and look for glow worms - they're a magical sight to be seen!

When it's time to camp, we highly recommend staying at The Settlement camping area. It's located in the heart of the park and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring.

The adventure continues and next on the travel itinerary is a trip to the Sunshine Coast! This drive from Springbrook National Park to Sunshine Coast is a scenic journey that offers a delightful experience. As you travel towards the coast, you'll notice the lush green rainforest slowly giving way to rolling hills and picturesque views of the coastline.

Once you arrive at Sunshine Coast, there are plenty of fun activities to do. One must-do is Australia Zoo, which is a popular destination for all ages. With various shows and exhibits, you'll get to see an array of exotic wildlife up close and personal including koalas, crocodiles, tigers, elephants, giraffes, snakes, birds and kangaroos.

If you're looking for a stunning view of the ocean, head over to Point Cartwright Lighthouse. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while feeling the cool sea breeze on your face.

Noosa Heads Main Beach is a must-visit for anyone who loves the beach. This gorgeous stretch of sand offers pristine waters, perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also explore the nearby shops and cafes, making it a great spot to spend the day.

A great spot to park up your maui camper for the night is at the Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park. With its prime location, you'll be just a stone's throw away from the beach, restaurants, and shops, as well as enjoy all the facilities it offers.

After what is sure to be a wonderful few days on the road, exploring all that this amazing area has to offer, it’s time to head back to Brisbane. The drive from Sunshine Coast to Brisbane is a scenic one, taking you through some beautiful coastal towns, past lush green landscapes, as well as along some easy highway sections.

Once you reach Brisbane, you can drop off your camper at the maui branch, which is conveniently located near the airport. The staff there are friendly and helpful, and they'll make the process quick and easy.

Ready to explore the Gold Coast?

If you’re ready to hit the road and start exploring, then head onto the maui website or into a maui branch to book your campervan today! Plus, while there be sure to check out the amazing travel deals, as well as read all the travel inspiration and tips on offer!