Queensland Pacific Coast Way Itinerary: Gold Coast to Cairns in 14 Days Offer expired Queensland Pacific Coast Way Itinerary: Gold Coast to Cairns in 14 Days Sun-soaked beaches, ancient rainforests, and the world’s largest coral reef system await on this legendary coastal journey. Collect your 2WD campervan from the Apollo Brisbane branch, then make the short hop to the Gold Coast to begin. The tropical dry season typically runs May to September in the far north, with many tourism operators considering May to October a dry window. Expect cooler, sunny days and excellent underwater visibility for Great Barrier Reef snorkeling. Humpback whales visit Hervey Bay from mid July to October, creating one of Australia’s most memorable wildlife shows. Most driving days sit around two to three hours, with a couple that are a little longer, leaving plenty of time for picnic stops, waterfall wanders, forest walks, and long sandy beaches all the way to Cairns. Day 1: Brisbane to Gold Coast Distance: 80 kms Travel time: ~1.25 hours Pick up your Apollo camper in Brisbane and ease into coastal life with a short drive to the Gold Coast. Settle into the rhythm of the trip with an ocean swim, a leisurely foreshore stroll, or a sunset picnic by the headlands. Where to stop between Brisbane and Gold Coast Burleigh Head National Park for an easy headland walk with ocean views and a look at one of Queensland’s most beloved surf breaks. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for close encounters with native animals and a deeper appreciation of wildlife care. Things to do in Gold Coast Start with a beach walk along Burleigh or Tallebudgera Creek, where turquoise waters are perfect for a gentle paddle. Watch surfers carving along the points, then wander local markets and cafes. If you prefer a longer stretch of the legs, the Oceanview track in Burleigh Head National Park is a scenic, low-effort trail with a high reward of views. In winter, keep your eyes peeled from the headlands for whales breaching offshore. Where to stay in Gold Coast BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park offers family-friendly facilities and easy access to beaches. Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park places you right beside calm water ideal for a sunset swim or paddle. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 2: Gold Coast to Noosa (Sunshine Coast) Distance: 215 kms Travel time: ~2.5 hours Head north to the Sunshine Coast for coastal coves, national park trails, and relaxed village vibes. This is a great day for an early start and unhurried scenic stops. Where to stop between Gold Coast and Noosa Glass House Mountains lookouts for sweeping views of volcanic plugs and short, easy-access walks. Point Cartwright or Mooloolaba Esplanade for a quick beachfront stretch and coffee break. Things to do in Noosa Walk the Noosa National Park Coastal Track to discover sheltered coves, forested headlands, and potential koala sightings. Swim at Little Cove, hire a kayak or SUP (stand-up paddle board) on the Noosa River, and stroll Hastings Street for alfresco dining. Nature lovers can explore the quieter forest trails that branch from the coastal path or time a beach picnic for golden-hour light. Where to stay in Noosa BIG4 Noosa North Shore Holiday Park places you near long beaches and walking trails. Alternatively, Noosa River Holiday Park is a relaxed option with easy access to the river and foreshore paths. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 3: Noosa to Hervey Bay Distance: 190 kms Travel time: ~2.5 hours Roll north through the Fraser Coast, trading surf beaches for sheltered bays known for calm waters and abundant marine life. In winter, this coastline becomes a stage for one of Australia’s most memorable wildlife shows. Where to stop between Noosa and Hervey Bay Maryborough’s riverside precinct for heritage streetscapes and a leg stretch. Point Vernon or Torquay foreshore for a bayside picnic on arrival into Hervey Bay. Things to do in Hervey Bay From July to October, take a whale-watching cruise (book with reputable local operators such as Pacific Whale Foundation or Hervey Bay Whale Watch) to witness humpbacks resting and playing in the calm waters of the bay. Outside whale season, enjoy easy cycling along the Esplanade, beachcombing on long sandy shores, and sunset views over the Great Sandy Strait. If you have time, plan for a guided day tour to K’gari to see crystal-clear Lake McKenzie and ancient dunes. For campervan and motorhome travelers, a guided 4WD tour is the most convenient way to experience the island. Where to stay in Hervey Bay Discovery Parks Hervey Bay offers shaded sites close to beaches and the Esplanade. BIG4 Hervey Bay is another comfortable base with easy access to waterfront paths and dining. Day 4: Hervey Bay Distance: 20 kms Travel time: ~0.5 hours With a full day at leisure, choose between a K’gari day tour to explore perched lakes and rainforests or a dedicated whale-watching trip in season. Off the water, stroll the Urangan Pier at sunrise, hire bikes for the foreshore path, or pack a picnic for a quiet patch of sand. Winter’s clear, mild days make this a perfect time for long walks and wildlife-spotting from shore. Where to stay in Hervey Bay Stay a second night at your chosen Hervey Bay holiday park to minimise packing and maximise time on the water or trail. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 5: Hervey Bay to Bundaberg Distance: 110 kms Travel time: ~1.5 hours Continue to Bundaberg, a hub for heritage, rum, and access to the southern Great Barrier Reef. Where to stop between Hervey Bay and Bundaberg Woodgate Beach for a gentle stroll beneath paperbarks and a peaceful beachfront picnic. Things to do in Bundaberg Tour the historic Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a taste of local craftsmanship, then explore the waterfront at Bargara. Nature lovers can visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre to learn about conservation efforts, while reef seekers can look into day trips to Lady Musgrave Island for snorkeling over coral gardens with turtles and vibrant fish. Winter’s calmer, drier weather often brings excellent water clarity on the southern reef. Where to stay in Bundaberg Discovery Parks – Bargara puts you steps from an ocean swim at sunrise. Alternatively, Bundaberg Park Village offers a convenient in-town base for distillery tours and shopping. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 6: Bundaberg to Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy Distance: 125 kms Travel time: ~1.75 hours Slip into the laid-back rhythm of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy, where calm estuaries meet surfable beaches and coastal tracks lead to breezy lookouts. Where to stop between Bundaberg and Agnes Water Moore Park Beach for a quick beach walk and birdwatching on the foreshore. Things to do in Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy Stroll the 1770 foreshore at sunset, hike short coastal tracks to lookouts, and swim or surf at Agnes Water Main Beach. Kayak the calm estuary, try your hand at fishing from the beach or headland, and explore Joseph Banks Conservation Park for clifftop views over Bustard Bay. Where to stay in Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy 1770 Holiday Village offers shady sites near forest and beach. The 1770 Camping Ground places you right on the water with sunsets that are hard to beat. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 7: Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy to Tannum Sands and Gladstone Distance: 80 kms Travel time: ~1 hour A short hop brings you to the Gladstone region and the relaxed beach community of Tannum Sands. This lighter driving day leaves plenty of time to play on the water. Where to stop between Agnes Water and Tannum Sands Miriam Vale for a country bakery stop and a quick leg stretch in the park. Things to do in Tannum Sands and Gladstone Hire a kayak for a paddle along the Boyne River, take a beach walk on the long sands at Tannum, or find a shady picnic spot beneath the pandanus. In Gladstone, take a short hike to Auckland Hill Lookout for panoramic harbour views. Keep an eye on the shoreline for turtles in the shallows, especially around calm, clear mornings. Where to stay in Tannum Sands and Gladstone Discovery Parks Tannum Sands places you near the beach and walking tracks. For a city base, Gladstone City Caravan Park is a convenient option for stocking up on supplies. Day 8: Tannum Sands to Yeppoon Distance: 175 kms Travel time: ~2.25 hours Travel to the Capricorn Coast for golden beaches, island vistas, and easy access to national park lookouts. Where to stop between Tannum Sands and Yeppoon Mount Archer National Park above Rockhampton for a short lookout walk and sweeping views. Koorana Crocodile Farm for a guided insight into Australia’s most formidable reptile. Things to do in Yeppoon Stroll the Yeppoon Esplanade, dip in the lagoon, and watch the light change over Keppel Bay. If time permits, take a cruise to Great Keppel Island for snorkeling in clear water and hiking short island trails between secluded coves. Back on the mainland, enjoy sunset fish and chips on the promenade. Where to stay in Yeppoon Beachside Holiday Caravan Park gives you easy access to the sand and town. Fisherman’s Beach Holiday Park in Emu Park is a quieter coastal base with ocean views and a peaceful vibe. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 9: Yeppoon to Clairview Distance: 205 kms Travel time: ~2.75 hours Keep today simple with a relaxed drive to the tiny beachfront settlement of Clairview, known for its laid-back fishing scene and big skies. Where to stop between Yeppoon and Clairview Emu Park’s coastal boardwalk for ocean lookouts and a breezy morning walk. St Lawrence Wetlands for birdwatching and a peaceful picnic stop. Things to do in Clairview Unwind on the beach, cast a line at high tide, and watch for dugongs grazing offshore in this protected marine area. With minimal driving today, it is the perfect spot to reset, stroll the shoreline, and enjoy a classic coastal camp cook-up. Where to stay in Clairview BarraCrab Caravan Park sits right on the beachfront, offering sea breezes, simple facilities, and easy access to the sand. Day 10: Clairview to Airlie Beach Distance: 275 kms Travel time: ~3.25 hours Arrive on the Whitsunday Coast, gateway to about 74 dreamy islands and some of Australia’s most photogenic beaches. Settle into island time and prepare for tomorrow’s day on the water. Where to stop between Clairview and Airlie Beach Sarina for a quick coffee and a stroll around the local shops or a tour at the sugar shed. Mackay’s Bluewater Lagoon for a refreshing dip and a stroll along the riverfront paths. Things to do in Airlie Beach Walk the Bicentennial Boardwalk between Airlie and Cannonvale, relax at the lagoon, and browse local markets for tropical fruit and island-inspired treats. If you are keen for a sunset view, head to a hillside lookout over the marina as yachts return to port. Consider a day trip to Whitehaven Beach on the Whitsundays for world-famous silica sand. Where to stay in Airlie Beach BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort offers excellent facilities, pools, and tropical gardens. NRMA Airlie Beach Holiday Park is a relaxed alternative close to the action. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 11: Airlie Beach Distance: 20 kms Travel time: ~0.5 hours This is your Whitsundays day. Join a sailing or power catamaran tour to Whitehaven Beach to feel the soft silica sand between your toes, then snorkel vibrant fringing reefs around Hook or Border Island. Winter’s calmer weather typically brings excellent visibility, making this an ideal time for first-time snorkelers. Prefer to stay on land? Explore Conway National Park’s rainforest trails to quiet coves and lookouts, or enjoy a long picnic lunch by the marina watching the boats drift by. Where to stay in Airlie Beach Stay a second night at your chosen holiday park to keep logistics simple after a full day on the water. Day 12: Airlie Beach to Townsville Distance: 275 kms Travel time: ~3.25 hours Point the camper north to the dry tropics city of Townsville, framed by Castle Hill and the blue expanse of Cleveland Bay. Break up the drive with beach stops and lookouts. Where to stop between Airlie Beach and Townsville Bowen’s Horseshoe Bay for a swim, snorkel from shore, or a short headland walk with views. Home Hill Comfort Stop for facilities and a stretch. In season, keep an eye out for roadside tropical fruit stalls around the Burdekin. Things to do in Townsville Walk The Strand promenade with its swimming enclosures and shady lawns, then drive or hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views over the city and Magnetic Island. If time allows, consider a day trip to Magnetic Island on foot the following morning to hike the Forts Walk and spot koalas in the wild, while leaving the camper on the mainland. Where to stay in Townsville Rowes Bay Holiday Park places you beside the water and within easy reach of The Strand. Ingenia Holidays Townsville offers spacious sites and a relaxed base on the northern side of the city. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland Day 13: Townsville to Mission Beach Distance: 235 kms Travel time: ~3 hours Continue into the lush Wet Tropics, where rainforest-clad ranges meet the Coral Sea. This is cassowary country, with palm-fringed sand stretching for kilometres. Where to stop between Townsville and Mission Beach Jourama Falls or Hinchinbrook Channel lookouts for short walks and rainforest views. Cardwell Spa Pool for a quick dip in strikingly blue water when conditions are right. Things to do in Mission Beach Walk the palm-lined sands between Wongaling and South Mission, keeping a respectful distance if you spot a cassowary crossing. Paddle a kayak with Dunk Island on the horizon, join a snorkeling or fishing charter, or explore short rainforest trails for cool shade and birdlife. Sunsets are spectacular here, so plan a beach picnic and watch the sky ignite. Where to stay in Mission Beach Mission Beach Hideaway Holiday Village offers leafy sites close to cafes and the beach. Dunk Island View Caravan Park provides a relaxed seaside feel with easy access to walking tracks. Day 14: Mission Beach to Cairns Distance: 140 kms Travel time: ~2 hours Finish your Pacific Coast Way journey in Cairns, gateway to reef and rainforest. The short, scenic drive allows time for swimming holes and short forest walks en route. Where to stop between Mission Beach and Cairns Josephine Falls for a lush rainforest walk to cascading water. Babinda Boulders (Boulders Scenic Reserve) for a tranquil picnic beneath towering mountains. Only swim in the designated calm areas and observe safety signage. Things to do in Cairns Join a Great Barrier Reef trip to snorkel outer reefs or visit a nearby island like Fitzroy or Green for coral gardens and turtle sightings. Winter in Tropical North Queensland is the dry season, bringing blue-sky days and some of the clearest underwater visibility of the year. Back on land, wander the Cairns Botanic Gardens, swim in the Esplanade Lagoon, or glide above the rainforest canopies on the Skyrail to Kuranda and return by scenic railway. Where to stay in Cairns NRMA Cairns Holiday Park offers a central base close to the Esplanade. Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut is a family-friendly option with resort-style facilities if you plan to stay on after returning your camper. You can return your vehicle to the Apollo Cairns branch at the end of your trip. With mostly gentle daily drives, rainforest hikes, island-hopping, and reef days timed to Queensland’s clear, dry winter, this itinerary is built for nature lovers who prefer more time out of the driver’s seat. When you’re ready, you can easily book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from your closest Apollo branch before hitting the road.