The Ultimate Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip

Begin your journey by picking up your campervan from the maui campervan rental Sydney branch. Once you have your camper sorted, spend some of the day exploring Sydney and the main tourist attractions such as the famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. There are so many fun things to do in Sydney so we’re sure you’ll have a great time whatever you decide to do. Some great experiences to enjoy while in Sydney include a visit to the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens which are set right on the Sydney Harbour and showcase an extensive range of flowers, plants and trees. You can go on a garden tour or simply stroll along, taking in the sights at your own pace. After here you can explore Newtown for a bite to eat and a wander around the streets to take in the impressive street art that is on show. A stroll through Hyde Park in the heart of the city is also sure to amaze. With soaring mature trees, peaceful pathways, expansive grassy areas to relax on, as well as the amazing Archibald fountain and ANZAC memorial to marvel at, this will be a delightful addition to your time in Sydney.

Once you are done soaking up the modern side of Sydney, take a journey back in time with a cultural journey around one of Sydney’s most iconic areas – The Rocks. The Rocks Dreaming Tour will give you a whole new perspective of Sydney and how this billion-year-old harbour has shaped Indigenous culture. During the 90-minute walk, you’ll find out what ‘Dreamtime’ means as you go ‘walkabout’ around the harbour and discover more about one of the most ancient cultures on the planet.

Heading out of Sydney you’ll drive past the famous Palm Beach, also known as Summer Bay! That’s right, where Home and Away is filmed. If you’re a fan you might want to stop and walk down the 2km long beach and take a few snaps of yourself in ‘Summer Bay’.

Where to park your motorhome once you arrive in Newcastle: NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park.

This coastal town is the second most populated city in New South Wales. However, there are eight beaches close by that are the perfect city escape. Newcastle’s harbour is home to coal ships, freight ships, fishing boats, ferries, yachts, kayaks and private vessels, making for chaotic but exciting viewing. 

While here a visit to Nelson Bay is also a must. A great spot to see passing whales, playful dolphins and epic sunsets, this part of Newcastle is sure to impress. You’ll also find some great cafes, eateries and shops waiting to be explored here, all in all making it a great day out. Looking for an unforgettable bucket list adventure? Be sure to add swimming with the dolphins to your road trip itinerary.

If you’re looking for a unique activity to add to your travel itinerary, then exploring the sand dunes on a quad bike is a must-do. The team at Sand Dune Adventures will guide you on a fun and exciting tour of the rolling sand dunes, as well as educate you on the significance of sand dunes and tell traditional stories of the area.

Those after a little more history and culture should visit the Newcastle Museum. With mesmerising exhibitions, cool events, interactive science stalls and impressive collections on show, this will be a wonderful spot to stop in that the whole family will love.

Stay another night in Newcastle at NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park.

After making the most of the campsite facilities and enjoying your breakfast, it’s time to begin the drive north to Forster. Most famous for its Dolphin cruises, fishing, sailboarding, scuba diving and amazing beaches, Forster is an ocean-lovers paradise. Main Beach is a protected beach, making it ideal for families. Nearby, Pebbly Beach is also a good spot for families as is Burgess Beach. However, be sure to stay aware of swim safety and beach safety while exploring the stunning blue waters of this region.

If you are looking for a peek into the indigenous side of Forster, be sure to join a Wallis Lake Cultural Experience. To get immersed in nature and enjoy some incredible sights, the Cape Hawke lookout in the Booti Booti National Park is a must-visit. Just 5-minutes from Forster, this lookout offers breathtaking views of the long coastline. Plus, if you’re here during whale season then this will be the spot to watch as the majestic creatures make their way past.

If you love nature walks then the Bicentennial Walk will be a delight to do. The total walk is 4 km long, however you can stop and start from wherever you want, to suit the time you have and your fitness levels. You’ll pass by Pebbly Beach, as well as the Tanks swimming area, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Where to park your motorhome: Reflections Forster Beach Holiday Park.

Port Macquarie is surrounded by waterways, beaches, parks, gardens and walking trails and offers plenty of things to do for families, couples and backpackers alike. While in town, be sure to make a stop to visit the Koala Hospital where you can learn all about wild koalas and (even have a chance to hold one.).

If you love a good scenic walk then the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk is sure to delight. Starting at Town Green foreshore and winding along the coast via Town Beach, Rocky Beach lookout, Nobby’s Beach and Harry’s lookout, this walk promises to have you captivated all the way along. The walk ends at Tacking Point lighthouse and is 9 km one-way, however you can break it into a smaller walk if you prefer.

The Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is a great addition to your travel plan too. Here you can wander through the Sea Acres National Park, stopping at the eco-displays to learn about the Aboriginal culture and surrounding rainforest environment as you go. This is an easy walk, suitable for the whole family and is sure to leave you in amazement for the beauty of this area. Plus, there is a café on-site to refuel after your stroll.

Stay the night at NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park.

Beginning the day with a drive to Coffs Harbour, your first stop is at the Big Banana Fun Park to have your photo taken holding up the ‘Big Banana’. A bit hard to miss, the big banana also boasts a water park (with the largest inflatable water slide in the world), Laser Tag, Ice Skating, a Wild Toboggan Ride, “The World of Bananas" multimedia theatre experience, a plantation and packing shed tour, a 36-hole Mini Golf course and so much more.

With lots of great beaches to visit you could learn to surf and don’t forget to include a trip to the Forest Sky Pier. Located at Sealy Lookout, The Forest Sky Pier offers an amazing panoramic view from the mountains to the Coffs Harbour coastline. The Pier extends 21 metres out from the Lookout and stands 15 metres above the forest floor. Also do not miss the chance to connect to land and sea with a 2.5-hour Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tour on a stand-up paddle board.

If you’re wanting to learn a little more about the area and discover a history rich in culture then a stop off at the Wadjar Regional Indigenous Gallery is a must. With exhibits of traditional and contemporary art from regional First Nation artists from all over NSW, as well as a space where the history and cultural values of the people are shared, this will be a cultural experience to remember.

The Coffs coast is home to many national parks and World Heritage-listed areas just waiting to be discovered. If you’re up for a walk where you’ll be immersed in nature and surrounded by native wildlife, then you’ll be spoilt for choice! Whether its deep into a lush national park, along a coastal walk or over headlands, there is a trail to suit every traveller.

Nature lovers are going to love the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. This island, which is connected to the shore, is rich in Aboriginal culture. You can wander across to the island and explore on your own with the help of the self-guided tour app, or you can book a tour in which you’ll learn all about the history of the area and hear some incredible stories of times past.

Park your motorhome for the night at Big4 Coffs Harbour Caravan Park Beach Camping.

When you pull into town, you’ll immediately understand why people flock to this amazing part of Australia. Home to Splendour in the Grass, the Blues Fest and the Falls Festival, there is a beat to this town that can't be heard but begs to be felt. Spend the day falling into the rhythm of this town by exploring some of the iconic beaches like Belongil Beach, then head to The Balcony Restaurant and enjoy an unbeatable meal with a view.

The area of Byron is also rich in history, so while here we recommend taking a workshop, tour or cultural program with the Arakwal People of Byron Bay to learn a little more about the area. They have a range of tours and programs to choose between, including an Aboriginal Walk and Talk, Dolphin Dreaming and Walgun Walk and Talk.

A visit to Byron Bay wouldn’t be complete without a stop in at The Farm. Here you can enjoy a coffee and cake, or a delicious meal from the Three Blue Ducks restaurant, before taking a stroll along the farm, past roaming cows, playful pigs, flocks of chickens and lush vegetable gardens. Plus, The Farm is located on the way out of Byron Bay, making it a great last stop before hitting the road to your next stop.

Where to park your motorhome: Ingenia Holiday Park Byron Bay.

Wake up early today and drive or walk to watch the sunrise from Cape Byron Lighthouse. Ninety-four metres above sea level, this nostalgic white lighthouse built in 1901 is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. Many people make the pilgrimage to Byron Bay just to do this, and it’s something you shouldn’t miss. As the most easterly point on mainland Australia, the Cape Byron headland is the perfect place to spot dolphins or whales enjoying the early morning light just offshore.

Once you have finished, it’s time to hit the road again. On your way to the Gold Coast, stop in at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. About 50 minutes north of Byron, Currumbin gives you the opportunity to experience Australia’s amazing native wildlife and learn about Aboriginal culture in one, easily accessible location. The rich culture of Aboriginal heritage is celebrated daily at 3.30 pm with a spectacular show featuring dances, stories and the distinctive rhythms of the didgeridoo.

If you are up for a walk then you must go on the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk. The pathways will lead you along an ancient volcano, past waterfalls and through lush rainforests which are sure to amaze and delight around every turn.

Where to park your motorhome: Gold Coast Tourist Parks.

Two days probably won’t be long enough for you to do everything you want while staying on the Gold Coast. So choose your adventure today! Thrill seeker? Stop by the ‘big four’ adventure parks – Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, Sea World or Dream World / Whitewater World. Prefer a more relaxed day? Visit Q1 and take in 360o views of the coast and its surroundings. A mecca for tourists, the Gold Coast beaches are always busy with sunbathers and swimmers, exciting nightlife will draw you in, along with amazing shopping and lots to see and do.

Chances are you’ve heard of the famous Surfers Paradise Beach. This expansive 2 km golden-sand beach is patrolled and invites you to swim, surf, or simply just enjoy some time in the sunshine. Then, after what is sure to be a relaxing time, you can wander up to the esplanade to enjoy a BBQ lunch or continue up to the shopping precinct where a great selection of eateries, cafes, bars, restaurants and shops are waiting for you.

If you’re wanting to shop then there is no better place than the Pacific Fair shopping centre. Open from 9am till 5pm and with plenty of parking and a host of incredible shopping and dining experiences on offer, this will be one of those shop-till-you-drop days!

A trip out into the hinterland to Tamborine Mountain is sure to delight. Here you can visit an art gallery, stroll the markets, head up to a lookout, enjoy a delicious bite to eat or go on a nature walk. Tamborine Mountain is located just an hour out of the Gold Coast and the drive out offers stunning scenery that will amaze at every turn.

Park up for another night at Gold Coast Tourist Parks.

On the agenda today is a day trip to Stradbroke Island. Fondly referred to as ‘Straddie’ by the locals, the island has an abundance of activities for all ages and fitness levels. Popular with surfers, boaties and fishing enthusiasts, the island offers snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, 4WDriving and bushwalking. It is also renowned for its native wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, manta rays, kangaroos, koalas, and spectacular shore views of the annual humpback whale migration. You might even get lucky and see ‘Migaloo’ - one of the only Albino whales in the world.

To get to Stradbroke Island, you’ll need to head North to Cleveland. With lots of cafes and Jacaranda trees to shade under, it’s worth stopping and grabbing a bite to eat before boarding the ferry. Sailings to the island are every hour. However, it’s a good idea to pre-book the ferry during peak seasons as it can get very busy. When on the island you can explore a different way. Scooters on Straddie offer scooter hire for a half day, a full day or a week, depending on how much time you plan on spending on the island. This unique way to get around will be a great and fun way to see the area, stopping in at beautiful beaches and cute cafes along the way.

If you’re searching for a lovely beach to relax on, then Cylinder Beach is well worth checking out. This picturesque cove is family friendly, easily accessible and patrolled, so you can swim and surf safely. A cultural tour of Minjerribah, aka Stradbroke Island, will be an unforgettable authentic indigenous experience. They have a range of tour to choose from, covering history, geography and culture.

When it’s time to cool off with a sweet treat then stop in at the Oceanic Gelati and Coffee Bar. With views over the water, as well as a tasty selection of ice creams, smoothies and coffee, this will be a relaxing place to refuel.

Where to park your motorhome: Main Beach Camping Ground.

This final day of the road trip brings us to Brisbane, Queensland’s most populous city. Here you can spend the day exploring the Brisbane River, wander Roma Street Parklands or the Botanic Gardens, and shop along Queen Street. Alternatively, for a little more culture, pop over to South Bank and swim at the man-made beach or look through the museum or two art galleries (all within the same precinct so visiting all three is easy).

If you are looking for one final cultural experience, don’t miss the Spirit of the Red Sands dinner show. This immersive 3-course dinner and show are regularly rated as one of Australia’s best aboriginal experiences and recently was awarded a gold Australian Tourism Award. It's a must-do when renting a travel van to explore Brisbane. When you’re done, it's time to return your motorhome to the Brisbane maui branch.

Take this amazing adventure from Sydney to Brisbane with maui

This section of the coast from Sydney to Brisbane is filled with enlightening cultural experiences, stunning wildlife and endless attractions just begging to be explored. Whether you want to stay in the caravan parks listed or get away from it all and try your hand at some of the best free camping in Australia - this is a bucket list itinerary not to be missed.

Ready to go on your Australian road trip with maui? Book your maui motorhome online today and then pick it up from your nearest maui branch to start your adventure. Looking for more advice on choosing the right motorhome or tips for motorhome travel so you can plan your trip? Check out the maui blog for more info.