Is the mere thought of the cooler seasons wearing you down this year? We get it, the chilly months can get the best of anyone. But the right holiday can help you shake it off with a road trip to warmer weather.
Chase that summer feeling with the ultimate road trip north along the east coast of Australia from Byron Bay to tropical Cairns. Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work and planned out the itinerary from beginning to end. All that’s left for you to do is pack your bags and bring a sense of adventure!
Start out in Byron Bay
Start out your east coast road trip by flying or driving into the Byron Bay area and staying at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay. The town is home to dozens of beautiful beaches, including the well-known Main Beach. However, if you’re not looking to face the crowds, you can check out some of the quieter beaches in the area such as Little Wategos or Boulders beach.
At Byron Bay, you can take your first surfing lesson or head out and explore the water in a kayak. Plus, Byron Beach offers plenty of different bars and cafes to unwind and take a load off.
For options beyond the water, head inland and check out the small town of Bangalow, well-known for its markets held every fourth Sunday of the month.
Head to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast
Next, head up the coast and enjoy a stay at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Noosa. This will put you in a prime spot in the Sunshine Coast and is only a short drive from an array of beautiful beaches or the bustling food and wine scene in Hastings Street.
Once you’ve explored Noosa, check out neighbouring Maroochydore or head to the Cotton Tree Market every Sunday morning for cool local goods. Book a ride in a seaplane to take in the view of the whole coast from way up high.
While, like most stops on this road trip, Sunshine Coast offers amazing beaches and outdoor activities, this pocket of Australia has even more options to make your trip extra memorable. It’s home to the world-famous Australia Zoo, known for the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin and the extensize range of wildlife at the zoo.
For more education experiences, add one of the many museums to the agenda. These include the Queensland Air Museum, the Wappa Falls Astronomical Observatory, or the Landsborough Museum.
While you’re at it, make sure you check out some of the local art. Art on Cairncross is one option if you want to admire fine art. You can also admire some beautiful works at the University of the Sunshine Coast Art Gallery, Neogallery, or the Seaview Art Gallery.
Once you’ve taken in your fill, you can pack up and head to the next stop on your Australian road trip.
Next stop: Hervey Bay
If you love whales, you’ll definitely appreciate the next stop on this itinerary. The World Cetacean Alliance named Hervey Bay the world’s first Whale Heritage Site, honouring the area’s tradition of appreciating whales while using sustainable and animal-friendly practices.
While you’re in the area, make sure you take a trip out to Fraser Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the largest sand island in the world, and is home to rainforests, sand dunes, and so much more.
Make sure you book your stay at Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay to maximize your fun while you’re on your road trip.
Townsville, an urban destination
Townsville, the largest urban centre in North Queensland, is both an emerging cultural hub and a place with plenty of access to the great outdoors. Offering easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the world, Townsville serves as the perfect base to explore the wonders of this region.
Make sure you check out Castle Rock, an environmental and historical landmark, while you’re in the area or take the ferry and enjoy a day trip to Magnetic Island. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, take a scuba dive down to the SS Yongala.
Townsville also offers wonderful food and drink options. From delicious breakfast options at JAM, to tacos on the water at Longboard Bar and Grill, to enticing Asian-fusion at Wild Rice Laos & Thai Cuisine, you’ll be stuffed to the gills in no time.
Stay at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Townsville while you explore this part of North Queensland.
Wrap it up in Cairns
The last stop on this Australian coast road trip itinerary is the sunny city of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland. Stroll along the Esplanade Boardwalk to take in the beauty of the area.
If you want to take in more natural attractions, Cairns is the place for you. Swim at Josephine Falls or embark on a snorkel adventure to admire the Great Barrier Reef up close and personal. Or you can take a trip on the Rainforest Skyrail to admire the beauty of the rainforest without having to take a trek through the forest itself.
Don’t miss out on the seafood while you’re in Cairns — the area is known for delicious fresh fish.
Book your accommodations at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut, which offers plenty of amenities to amuse your family during your downtime. Swimming pools, jumping cushions, games rooms — you won’t be hurting for entertainment for a single second.
Enjoy your ultimate road trip
With this itinerary, you’ll be having the time of your life on the ultimate road trip along the east coast of Australia. From Byron Bay to Cairns, base yourself at an Ingenia Holidays Park every step of the way while you create memories that last a lifetime.
Are you ready to escape with us? Book your road trip accommodation with us today.
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