Must-see highlights of a Brisbane to Cairns road trip

Kristie Lau-Adams Kristie Lau-Adams
hero media
Queensland’s natural beauty is utterly exploited during a go-with-the-flow journey from Brisbane to Cairns.

Two cities stacked with non-stop entertainment – but it’s what’s between Brisbane and Cairns that’s often underestimated. The 1390-kilometre coastal sweep between the southern end and the far north clocks in a drive time of just under 19 hours. But if you’ve got a solid week or so to take your time, road-tripping the journey will facilitate a non-stop stretch of pinch-me pit stops. From flawless beach towns and sublime subtropical trails to mind-blowing culinary experiences and cultural eye-openers, the trip from Brisbane and Cairns is a must-tackle at least once in your lifetime.

Brisbane

Brisbane city aerial shot
Explore Brisbane’s riverside enclaves and lively neighbourhoods.

Right, the car’s locked and loaded, and you’ve grabbed snacks — but are you ready to kiss Brissie goodbye? Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge your wanderlust in the ever-evolving Queensland capital before hitting the road.

As Brisbane sets its sights on hosting the 2032 Olympic Games, it’s buffing and shining like crazy so there’s world-class entertainment to seize before global crowds catch on.

the Howard Smith Wharves beneath the Story Bridge
You’ll find the heritage-listed Howard Smith Wharves beneath the iconic Story Bridge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Soak up the Brisbane River, 17 hectares of lush parkland, retail and dining, and one extraordinary inner-city beach at South Bank. It’s crammed with go-all-day activity. There’s also plenty going on at Howard Smith Wharves beneath the Story Bridge.

Some of the best restaurants in Brisbane are located within this historical precinct as foodies converge for stellar waterfront meals and vibrant bars.

A must-see attraction

people dining al fresco at Felons Brewing Co, Howard Smith Wharves
Dine on excellent fish and chips with stellar waterfront views at Felons Brewing Co. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Before diving into your Brisbane to Cairns adventure, toast what’s to come with a meal at Felons Brewing Co. down at Howard Smith Wharves. Seafood platters, woodfired pizzas, burgers and excellent fish and chips come with a side of the city’s best views.

Where to stay

the room interior at The Calile Hotel
Stay in a stylish subtropical paradise at The Calile Hotel. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Go all out and book a stay at The Calile Hotel on the very chic James Street in Fortitude Valley. You’ll be transported to a stylish subtropical paradise, and you’re mere footsteps from designer shopping heaven.

Noosa

an aerial view of the Noosa National Park
Head to Noosa National Park to see stunning natural landscapes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The show must roll on. Head along the Pacific Coast Way for roughly two hours (praying the traffic gods are on your side) to hit Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, a sun-drenched haven for photo-perfect beach towns and epic culinary experiences showcasing peak seasonal produce. Noosa is the region’s glittering star.

Punch Hastings Street into Google Maps for serious action. Home to some of Noosa’s best restaurants, outstanding Noosa accommodation options, stylish boutiques and always-on people-watching, the bustling stretch is busy from day to night.

Once you’re ready to escape the buzz, explore Noosa National Park for beautiful coastal hikes, sensational views and soothing swims.

A must-see attraction

a drone shot of the turquoise waters at Noosa River
Admire the turquoise hues of the Noosa River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Noosa Main Beach is stunning, but don’t leave without longingly gazing at Noosa River. Jumping on a rental boat and winding your way along its glistening turquoise waters is one of the best Noosa experiences you’ll encounter.

Where to stay

Make the most of a short visit by staying at the centrally located Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort. It’s home to a lagoon-style pool fitted with a swim-up bar plus the acclaimed Noosa Beach House Restaurant.

Hervey Bay

A couple sit in the water at Lake McKenzie(Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie is recognisable by its gradient of blues. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Got your phone charger plugged in? It’s time to hit one of the earth’s longest coastal roads, picture-perfect from every angle, the Great Beach Drive from Noosa to Hervey Bay. Tackling its 380-kilometre stretch will cover two UNESCO biosphere reserves, sleepy Rainbow Beach and K’gari, including all of its 4WD-perfect coastline and the breathtaking Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie.

Once you’re ready to settle into Hervey Bay, an approximate two-hour drive from Noosa without stopping, you’ll quickly realise why it’s everyone’s favourite Fraser Coast pit-stop. If it’s anytime from July to November, looking for whales is a non-negotiable and one of the best things to do in Hervey Bay.

a look inside the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and Orchid House
The Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens is a haven for orchid enthusiasts.

Elsewhere, there’s the spectacular 26-hectare Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and Orchid House to lose yourself in, thriving Torquay and its jetty for chilled-out fishing and boutique hopping, and water sports galore along the beachfront.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

A must-see attraction

cocktail drinks on the table at Enzo's on the Beach, Hervey Bay Esplanade
Sip cocktails at sundown. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Soak up a salty coastal breeze over cocktails and fresh food at Enzo’s on the Beach, Hervey Bay’s adored beachfront restaurant and bar.

Where to stay

Treat yourself to the best Hervey Bay accommodation by booking a night at Akama Resort. One of its self-contained apartments, located within walking distance to the centre of town, will provide a plush space to help you recharge your batteries.

Bundaberg

an aerial view of a ship sailing across the Great Barrier Reef
Bundaberg is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Venture north, steering slightly inland for about an hour and a half, and you’ll hit a seriously underrated, ECO-certified destination. Bundaberg is so much more than its famed alcoholic prowess, providing a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and staggeringly beautiful coastal charms.

Let an expert guide lead your exploration, whether on land or sea. Several standout Bundaberg tours take in the city’s distilleries and just-offshore sea turtles at magnificent Lade Musgrave Island and beyond.

A must-see attraction

visitors sampling spirits at Bundaberg Rum Distillery
Stay for a tasting at Bundaberg Rum Distillery. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

You can’t return from a visit to Bundaberg without bragging about your visit to the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Where to stay

For one of the best places to stay in Bundaberg, choose the Grand Mercure, located on Bargara Beach, as ocean views abound.

Rockhampton

the Rockhampton Museum of Art
The Rockhampton Museum of Art is situated on the banks of the Fitzroy River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Hug the coastline for another three hours or so, passing the ultra-chilled beach towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy, to find Rockhampton in Central Queensland. A historical coastal gem, spoilt even further with gorgeous Victorian buildings and lush hinterland, it’s a nature lover’s dream.

an aerial view of the Mount Archer National Park
Take in the lush scenery at Mount Archer National Park.

Brush up on its history at the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Archer Park Rail Museum, two of the best things to do in Rockhampton that won’t eat up too much of your day.

After all, you’ll need ample time to gawk at the raw, untouched beauty of Mount Archer National Park.

A must-see attraction

an immersive display inside the Rockhampton Museum of Art
Rockhampton is home to Queensland’s largest regional art gallery.

The Rockhampton Museum of Art is a culture vulture’s wonderland, standing proudly as Queensland’s largest regional art gallery.

Where to stay

There’s Rockhampton accommodation for every budget, but we love the Denison Boutique Hotel for its spectacular 1885 building and step-into-a-bygone-era decadence.

Mackay

Notch up good mileage with the three-hour and 45-minute drive to Mackay, a town making serious waves among the country’s savviest foodies.

Flushed with some of the region’s most diverse produce, Mackay is crammed with culinary imagination and the freshest of ingredients, plus Australia’s most abundant supply of sugar.

Fear not – you can burn off heavy indulgence by hitting any one of the exceptional nature hikes within the region.

A must-see attraction

Cape Hillsborough National Park is rich with those said hikes, plus secluded beaches and natural volcanic rock showstoppers.

an drone shot of a secluded beach in Cape Hillsborough
Soak up the secluded beauty of Cape Hillsborough National Park. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Where to stay

The Lanai Riverside Apartments are close to the centre of town, plus there’s a pool, sauna and steam room to take advantage of.

Airlie Beach

a woman swimming at Finch Hatton Gorge
A detour to swim at Finch Hatton Gorge is more than worth it. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The white sand of Airlie Beach is finally calling, but if you’ve got time, journey an hour inland from Mackay for Finch Hatton Gorge beforehand. It’s an unforgettable subtropical hub of waterfalls, dramatic boulders and rock pools, reconnecting you to Mother Nature in spectacular style.

But onwards – it’s Whitsundays time. Airlie Beach is the ultimate place to launch into the Great Barrier Reef. And if it’s on-land attractions you’re after, you’re similarly spoilt. There are a bunch of great restaurants and bars begging to be savoured.

A must-see attraction

the Airlie Beach Lagoon lined with palm trees
Chill on the palm-fringed Airlie Beach Lagoon. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Airlie Beach Lagoon is a saltwater swimming spot that attracts sun-loving crowds. There’s a playground and barbecue facilities to help you make a day of it.

Where to stay

The Sebel is a reliably luxurious pick and undoubtedly one of the best Airlie Beach accommodation options.

Mission Beach

a person sitting on a bent palm tree at Mission Beach
Mission Beach stretches over 14 kilometres of golden coastline. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The final stop on every Brisbane to Cairns road trip must be Mission Beach, just under two hours’ drive from your final destination.

The tiny beachside town is located on the Cassowary Coast, where the fantastical flightless birds are known to frequent. Follow our tips to spot one of the elusive creatures during your visit.

A must-see attraction

lush landscapes at Djiru National Park
Djiru National Park winds through a magical rainforest. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Get your walking shoes out of the car and onto your hoofs for the serene 1.5-kilometre Lacey Creek Walk in Djiru National Park.

Where to stay

For extreme indulgence, don’t look past The Elandra. It’s every shade of sophistication.

Cairns

friends walking through the Original Rainforest Markets in Kuranda
Find everything from local arts to delicious eats at Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland/James Vodicka)

You made it. Celebrate reaching the end of your journey and the gateway to Far North Queensland by ticking off the best things to do in Cairns.

Explore a diverse collection of eateries and the art galleries and markets of Kuranda, its popular mountain village, before snapping up instant access to the extraordinary Great Barrier Reef.

A must-see attraction

an aerial view of visitors walking across the hanging bridge at Daintree Discovery Centre
The awe-inspiring Daintree Rainforest is a must-visit. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Reef is always beckoning, but don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the Daintree Rainforest.

Where to stay

The pool at Crystalbrook Riley in Cairns
Settle into this luxe oasis at Crystalbrook Riley. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Crystalbrook Riley stays true to the hotel chain’s design-led ethos, delivering character-filled rooms and five-star amenities.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
View profile and articles
tangalooma cabana club
Moreton Island

Australia’s first year-round beachfront cabana club opens soon

One of Queensland’s most nostalgic island holiday destinations will soon welcome its first guests to the brand-new Tangalooma Dunes Cabana Club.

Read more
Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane, Queensland
Brisbane

Howard Smith Wharves’ $500m glow-up includes a boutique hotel and over-river pool

Brisbane’s riverside hotspot is going bigger, bolder and better ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.

Read more
the Nautilus Pool and Bar at The Westin Brisbane
Brisbane

The Westin Brisbane: A five-star hotel devoted to your wellbeing

Offering marshmallow-soft bedding, in-room fitness gear and healthy Mediterranean meals, The Westin Brisbane lavishly fuels inner-city exploration.

Read more
a look inside Gum Bistro, Brisbane
Brisbane

A definitive guide to the best restaurants in Brisbane

A culinary renaissance is in full swing as the best restaurants in Brisbane prove they’re simply to dine for.

Read more
hero media

How to spend three romantic days on Hamilton Island

(Image: Sharyn Cairns)

    Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
    Continue
    From barefoot beach walks to moonlit dinners, this three-day Hamilton Island itinerary will have lovebirds swooning.

    Few Aussie destinations do romance quite like Hamilton Island. Set in the dreamy Whitsunday Islands, this popular honeymoon destination combines luxury retreats, palm-fringed reefs and spectacular dining with the easy rhythm of tropical living. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary or spontaneous couples’ weekend, here’s how to spend a loved-up three days on Hamilton Island.

    Day 1

    Morning

    A serene ocean-view room overlooking endless blue horizons.
    Let picturesque ocean views welcome you the moment you check in. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

    Nothing kills the holiday buzz faster than waiting at the baggage carousel. Luckily, our arrival couldn’t have been smoother. Staying at the boutique, adults-only Beach Club Hotel means VIP transfers are included, so the moment we land, a staff member greets us and whisks our bags straight from the baggage claim to our room. We don’t have to lift a finger.

    Occupying a prime piece of real estate on Catseye Beach, Beach Club is a peaceful retreat just steps from sugar-white sand and a turquoise lagoon. Within 10 minutes of stepping off the plane, we’ve arrived and are switched into holiday mode.

    We check into our room, immediately delighted by the sight of several wallabies grazing in the garden just in front of our private terrace. Beyond, picturesque ocean vistas stretch across the horizon. The room’s mini bar is stocked with bespoke sweet treats; the bathroom with premium Aesop amenities that add to the luxury.

    After we’ve checked out the resort’s beachside infinity pool – plotting the lounge chairs we’ll no doubt return to later – we head out to explore the island. Families glide by on hire bikes and chirping rainbow lorikeets dot the foliage. We decide to hike up to Passage Peak – one of the most scenic walks on Hamilton Island – which takes about 40 minutes one way and boasts panoramic Whitsundays views that will stick with you for long after you leave.

    Afternoon

    A romantic beachside lunch as champagne is served.
    Recharge with a laid-back lunch at Beach Club Restaurant. (Image: Nikki To)

    After working up an appetite, Beach Club Restaurant is the perfect place to snap up a light lunch. Think barramundi, nourish bowls, Wagyu beef burgers, brown butter toasties and Queensland chilli prawns. For those who don’t want to move from their prime perch on the beach or by the pool, there’s also the option to order bites via QR code from the resort’s lounge chairs.

    After our fill, we plunge into the hotel’s incredible infinity pool, its surface blending near seamlessly into the blues of Catseye Beach. Quiet and tucked away from the island’s hum, it feels illegal to do anything but relax here.

    Evening

    A curated flatlay of dishes from Catseye Pool Club.
    Celebrate your first evening over beautifully plated coral trout. (Image: Nikki To)

    There’s truly nothing more satisfying than a little R&R (rest & robe) time in your hotel room after spending the day in the sun. Fresh from a shower, we watch the ripe tangerine sun slowly dip below the palm-framed horizon from our plush terrace daybed. Two wallabies are still grazing on the grass. It’s a magical setting; I find it hard to believe I am only a few hours away from home.

    Come dinnertime, we zip over to nearby Catseye Pool Club, which is a short buggy ride from the hotel or a five-minute walk. A chic new haunt from Sydney-based pair Josh and Julie Niland, the restaurant is all about reconnecting over flavour-rich share plates using high-quality Aussie ingredients.

    We sit in a corner overlooking Catseye Beach – arguably the best seat in the house – with mini table lamps casting a soft glow about the contemporary indoor-outdoor setting. What comes next is pure delight; grilled prawns served with tumeric and lemongrass marinade, macadamia satay sauce and a Thai-leaning sour green mango salad. Then, elegantly plated coral trout served with kasundi and zucchini. We savour it all slowly, the conversation flowing easily between bites and sips while the moonlight transforms the ocean into molten silver.

    Day 2

    Morning

    An 18-hole golf course set against sweeping ocean views.
    Tee off side by side against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views. (Image: Andrea Francolini)

    A la carte breakfast is complimentary for guests of Beach Club, and we take full advantage of the fact. Barista-quality coffee and pressed juice – today it’s carrot, melon, orange and pineapple – arrive alongside pastries baked fresh this morning. For the larger meal, I treat myself to the buttermilk pancakes with praline butter.

    If you prefer an active start to the morning rather than lying in, you’ll find plenty of options. Perhaps tee off at the 18-hole golf course, where the views are as much of a drawcard as the sport itself. Designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson, the course is integrated into the ridged landscape of Dent Island.

    Afternoon

    Artfully paired wines and bites from the Talk & Taste experience.
    Uncover new favourite wines together. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

    For wine-curious couples, Beach Club’s new Talk & Taste experience is a must. Held several times a week for up to eight guests, it’s an intimate tasting of Aussie drops paired with curated bites – all guided by Bommie Assistant Manager and wine enthusiast Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher.

    We opt for the white wine and seafood option, enjoying pours from Eden Valley to Launceston while Courtenay shares her knowledge and passion for the intricacies of wine making.

    Later, we drive our golf buggy up to One Tree Hill. This is one of the most popular spots on the island for sunset, but we chose to come a little earlier so we have more space to ourselves. We enjoy afternoon wine and cheese, admiring the 360-degree views of the island and its impossibly blue waters.

    Evening

    The moody, atmospheric interiors of Bommie Deck.
    Dress up for a romantic evening at Bommie Restaurant. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

    Since we are, after all, on holiday, we continue the tipples at Bommie Deck. Suspended above Hamilton Island’s marina, this architectural monument is a fabulous place for a sunset spritz.

    Just a few steps inside is Bommie Restaurant, the contemporary Australian fine dining establishment headed by chef Ryan Locke. Of anywhere on the island, this is the place to frock up and celebrate a special occasion – especially if theatrical culinary experiences take your fancy. The tasting set menu is a whirlwind of native Australian flavours and creative plating – with highlights including the cured venison wrapped in wattle seed seasoning. For dessert, a clever take on white chocolate and lemonade ends the night on a high.

    Day 3

    Morning

    A couple gliding across calm waters on SUP boards together.
    Ease into the morning with a paddleboarding adventure. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

    Another low-key morning means another blissful breakfast at Beach Club. This time, it’s smashed avo toast topped with Persian fetta, dukkah and poached eggs – a deliciously fueling start to the day.

    The weather today is perfect for a paddle, so we walk straight from our room onto the sand of Catseye Beach to pick up some SUP boards. Guests of Beach Club receive complimentary non-motorised water sports equipment, spanning everything from mini catamarans to snorkel gear and kayaks. Finding our balance on the boards is a fun challenge at first, but before long, we’re gliding across the glassy water like naturals.

    Afternoon

    A helicopter soaring above the iconic Heart Reef.
    Add the ultimate highlight with a Heart Reef flight together. (Image: Hamilton Island)

    No couples’ retreat is complete without a touch of pampering. Located in the resort area, Spa Wumurdaylin offers everything from body wraps and facials to de-stress massages using natural Australian products. The Soul Temple treatment begins with a heavenly feeling sugar scrub, followed by a Vichy vertical shower and underwater massage. I leave in a daze.

    If you prefer adventure to relaxation, there is an abundance of day trips from Hamilton Island, from snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to Whitsundays helicopter tours – all of which make for unforgettable experiences that will bring you and your partner closer.

    Evening

    A couple standing at qualia, gazing out over the endless ocean horizon.
    Close your journey over a beautiful dinner by the sea. (Image: Sharyn Cains)

    Enjoy an elevated evening at qualia’s tranquil Pebble Beach restaurant, where a private beach setting complements the thoughtful, seasonal menu. Or perhaps continue relaxing at Beach Club, feasting on roast lamb and seafood at the poolside restaurant or soaking in ocean views from your room with in-house room delivery. And don’t forget the champagne – a weekend of love, fun and restoration is worth toasting.

    Getting there

    Hamilton Island has its own airport called the Great Barrier Reef Airport, which makes it fuss-free to get to. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. This means you’ll spend less time travelling and more time enjoying each other’s company.

    Visit hamitlonisland.com.au for more couples’ retreat ideas.