Queensland Coastal Drive
SELF DRIVE TOUR
BRISBANE | NOOSA | K'GARI | HERVEY BAY | AGNES WATER | ROCKHAMPTON | MACKAY | AIRLIE BEACH | TOWNSVILLE | MISSION BEACH | CAIRNS
One of the iconic Australian road trips, this itinerary showcases some of the best that the Queensland coast has to offer, as you visit K'gari, Airlie Beach and cruise to the Great Barrier Reef on your way from Brisbane to tropical Cairns on this spectacular Australian self-driving tour.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1-3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14
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Day 15
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Day 16
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Day 17-18
Day 1-3 : UK - Brisbane
Fly from the UK. Spend 2 nights in Brisbane. Enjoy a morning Brisbane Donuts & Discover walking tour.
Day 4 : Brisbane - Noosa ( 100 miles / 161km)
Collect your car from Brisbane downtown Avis care rental. This iconic road trip showcases some of the best that the Queensland coast has to offer. Overnight on K’gari, home to the largest sand island in the world, further north Airlie Beach is gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach. A cruise on the Great Barrier Reef will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.
Day 5 : Noosa - K'gari
K'gari, a World Heritage-listed island, Fraser Island is the only place in the world where a rainforest has been known to grow from sand. Stretching over 123 kilometres in length and 22 kilometres at its widest point. and with an area of 184 000 hectares it is the largest sand island in the world.
Day 6 : K'gari
Enjoy a full day 4WD ranger guided Beauty Spot eco-tour with morning or afternoon tea, lunch and national park fee. The Beauty Spots 4WD ranger-guided Bus tour provides you with the opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural history of Fraser Island. Swim in the crystal clear blue waters of Lake McKenzie, the island's most beautiful perched lake. From Central Station, walk along the banks of Wanggoolba Creek as it flows silently through the rainforest. Marvel at the tall, majestic satinay trees of Pile Valley. Drive along spectacular Seventy Five Mile Beach. Stop to swim in the cool, fresh Eli Creek. This swift flowing creek, the largest on the eastern beach, spills 80 mega litres of water into the ocean every day. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and marvel at The Coloured Sands of the Pinnacles. See an ancient forest being uncovered as Stonetool Sand Blow moves across the island. You will then return to Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Day 7 : Hervey Bay to Agnes Water (139 miles / 223km)
One of Queensland's best kept secrets, Agnes Water is home to stunning national parks and incredible beaches. This location is an ideal base for exploring the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and is also famous for its surfing, with welcoming waves that are perfect for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Day 8 : Agnes Water to Rockhampton (140 miles / 225km)
Rockhampton is a city brimming with character, combing a rich cultural and historical heritage with a multitude of natural attractions and outdoor activities. Step back in time by walking through the Rockhampton Heritage Village or visit the city's fantastic art gallery where community and creativity come together
Day 9 : Rockhampton to Mackay (210 miles / 338km)
Surrounded by white sand beaches and luscious rainforest, Mackay has ample opportunities to experience magnificent natural attractions. This hidden gem remains unspoiled by mass tourism whilst still offering great shopping and dining experiences.
Day 10 : Mackay to Airlie Beach (100 miles / 161km)
Gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach is the perfect base from which to explore these magnificent wonders. With year-round tropical weather, palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks, al fresco restaurants and vibrant markets
Day 11 : Airlie beach
On your Full Day Whitehaven & Hill Inlet Chill & Grill you will spend the day experiencing all the wonders of the magnificent Whitehaven Beach area. Begin your Whitehaven experience ashore at the southern end of the beach where our crew will advise of the times for the day’s activities – including the trip to Hill Inlet at the northern end of the beach and the walking tours. These will vary depending on conditions. Enjoy a leisurely cruise, in our smaller Whitehaven based vessel, along the full length of Whitehaven Beach and across Hill Inlet to the landing point. From here a guided walk following the path and history of the Whitsunday traditional owners, the Ngaro people, will lead you to the lookout and that picture postcard view! There are informative displays along the way that will provide an insight into the history, flora and stories of this picturesque area. A leisurely pace ensures all fitness levels are catered for, and guests take the time to enjoy this superb spiritual place. On your return to the southern end of the beach, your guide will let you know departure times for optional walks to Whitehaven Beach Lookout, Chance Bay, and Solway Passage. Alternatively, if you’re after a more relaxed afternoon; wander back to Whitehaven Beach to your own secluded stretch where you can laze on the beach or cool off in the azure waters.
Day 12 : Airlie Beach to Townsville (173 miles / 278km)
One of the major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, Townsville is a vibrant city located about halfway between the tip of Cape York and Brisbane.
Day 13 : Townsville
Magnetic Island Day Tour.
Day 14 : Mission Beach
Long white sandy beach, lush tropical rainforest, relaxed coastal cafes, and waterfalls with swimming holes in the hills. Mission Beach is a tropical escape.
Day 15 : Cairns
Queensland’s most northern city of Cairns is the perfect gateway into two world heritage listed sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The town is full of life with amiable café’s, bustling markets, an array of restaurants and bars. Stop by the locals favourite swimming spot at Trinity beach and take a stroll along the esplanade
Day 16 : Cairns
Enjoy a Rainforest and Nocturnal Wildlife Tour. Your tour will visit the scenic Atherton Tablelands, rich in bio diversity, an area that features a range of habitats including lush tropical rainforest and volcanic crater lakes. Enjoy afternoon tea at the world renowned, Lake Barrine. During your adventure by day we may see the Musky Rat Kangaroo, Boyds Forest Dragon, a selection of rainforest birds, butterflies and Flying Foxes. At dusk we venture to the viewing area by the river to search for the Platypus, one of the most unique mammals on earth. After dinner at a local country restaurant, your night time spotlighting adventure begins. As you walk under the night stars, and into the World Heritage Rainforest, you may be lucky enough to spot a Lumholtzs Tree Kangaroo, Northern Leaf Tailed Gecko, Ringtail Possums, gliders, frogs, owls and more (most are endemic to the region). At the completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your Cairns area accommodation.
Day 17-18 : Cairns - UK
Its time to go home, get ready for your first flight to Singapore then to the UK.
