East Coast of Australia: Travel Guide and Places to Visit

Are you getting ready to plan the ultimate road trip along the East Coast of Australia? Well, look no further than this travel guide and itinerary that’s jam-packed with travel tips, hidden gems and facts on the following destinations!

Firstly, this road trip is the perfect adventure for people of all ages. Not to mention, this is also a very family-friendly road trip. No matter your style of travel, this itinerary is great for caravans, motorhomes, campers, vans and regular vehicles. Additionally, there are many places for free and paid camping, hotels, Airbnb and more.

A journey along the East Coast of Australia is recommended by many Australians and international travellers since there is a multitude of stretching coastlines, national parks, mountains and wildlife to explore.

According to the particular road trip outlined, please be aware that the tour is roughly 4,002km, equal to about 50 hours of driving. Likewise, along this route, you will enter three states of Australia. Those of which include Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. And, along the journey, you will get to visit the capital cities of each state being Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Best Time of Year to Travel the East Coast of Australia

For the most part, you will enjoy this road trip at any time of the year. However, since you are crossing multiple states, expect the weather to be different from the Northern and Southern parts of the coast.

With that being said, September to November and February to April are the best times of year to visit the Southern regions of Australia. That includes anywhere starting from Sydney, all the way down to Melbourne.

For the Northern parts of Australia, the best time to visit is from May to October. This is due to the warmer climate and tropical temperatures. Moreover, this includes anywhere from Byron Bay to Cairns and more Northern parts of Queensland.

Therefore, if you’re after the best weather experience and ideal temperatures, you could start your trip at the Great Ocean Road in March and then reach the Northern region of Queensland by May.

How Much Time You Need to Travel the East Coast of Australia

One of the most common misconceptions about travelling around Australia is that a trip this length can be completed in a matter of weeks. Please know that this is essentially impossible and will be the most unpractical and least enjoyable trip if rushed.

However, you could choose a certain section of this itinerary if you only have a short amount of time for a holiday; For example, a two-week mid-year school holiday. Therefore, if you live in Sydney, you could head up to Brisbane for a shorter holiday adventure.

However, if you want to truly experience a lengthy excursion and soak up everything on offer, I would recommend taking three months to enjoy this road trip at a leisurely pace.

The Most Popular Towns and Cities

Get set to explore some of the most popular towns and visitor attractions you’ve always heard of from tourists and social media! Starting from the South, Lorne is one of the best Great Ocean Road towns.

Moving up the coast, Merimbula is an excellent seaside town along the Sapphire Coast. Then, Batemans Bay is a lovely region and is the heart of Australia’s oyster coast.

Next is Coffs Harbour, which is known for its iconic Big Banana attraction. This one is great for photo opportunities during your road trip! Then, Byron Bay is known for its ‘hip’ ambience and strong presence of surf culture.

Furthermore, The Gold Coast is the perfect stopover for all things adventure, including theme parks, shopping and nightlife. And finally, Cairns is known for its tropical weather and includes the best gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

How to Travel the East Coast

There are many ways you can embark on your journey up the East Coast, although the most convenient way to enjoy it is via your private vehicle. However, you can use public transport like trains for far destinations, and you can hire campervans or motorhomes if you’re visiting from overseas.

All of these locations mentioned are ideal for travel with a caravan, campervan, SUV etc. There are multiple camping and accommodation options in all regions, making it easy to stick to your budget.

East Coast of Australia Itinerary

Depending on your current location, the starting destination will vary from each person; Choose the best route for you with this guide, and create your path.

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Start your journey along the East Coast of Australia with a drive on no other than Victorias Great Ocean Road. This coastal drive is renowned all over the world for its stunning beaches and its significance to World War I.

Moreover, there is an everlasting range of beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, campgrounds and bushland to explore. You can never see enough in this magnificent part of the world.

I recommend visiting Teddy’s Lookout in Lorne for amazing views over the Great Ocean Road and fantastic photo opportunities. Also, check out one of the many waterfalls in the area. Hopetoun Falls and Sheoak Falls are just a couple of the many beautiful cascades.

Places to visit:
-The 12 Apostles
-Loch Ard Gorge
-Sheoak Falls
-Great Otway National Park
-Memorial Arch

Melbourne, Victoria

It’s also nice to get out of the city and into the suburbs. One of the most magnificent locations out of Melbourne is the Dandenong Ranges. There are numerous walking trails, picnic spots, botanic gardens and lookout locations.

Not to mention, there are several day trips you can enjoy from Melbourne. Head down to the Mornington Peninsula for a day at the beach or if you’re visiting during the winter, take a drive up to the Alpine region to get among the snow season and activities.

However, there’s so much to explore within Melbournes CBD. From graffitied laneways to vibrant cafe culture and museums to art displays. Get out into the heart of Melbourne to truly experience all it has to offer.

Places to visit:
-Royal Botanic Gardens
-Melbourne Museum
-Dandenong Ranges
-Phillip Island
-Yarra Valley Region

Eden, New South Wales

Eden and its surroundings have plenty on offer, and it’s one of the first towns you’ll come upon when driving into New South Wales.

Moreover, the beaches in this region are fantastic, and Ben Boyd National Park is worth a visit. Also, be sure to visit Disaster Bay lookout for epic views over the coast.

Later, head up the coast towards Merimbula and Bermagui for more stunning coastlines and places to explore.

Places to visit:
-The Blue Pool, Bermagui
-Green Cape Lighthouse
-Ben Boyd National Park
-Merimbula
-Killer Whale Museum

Batemans Bay, New South Wales

Batemans Bay is one of those towns that is scattered with hotels, motels and magnificent places to stay. However, if you’d prefer to camp, I have just the place for you!

Head north of Batemans Bay up to the Depot Beach Campground area. This camping location offers the most paradise-like ambience. Moreover, you will be nestled amongst native trees with a magnificent backdrop of bushland on one side and the beach on the other.

Finally, while visiting Batemans Bay, don’t forget to stop in at the local ice cream shop for a refreshing treat after a long day at the beach. Also, this is one of the best places to visit along Australias East Coast.

Places to visit:
-Depot Beach
-Batemans Bay Heritage Museum
-Holmes Lookout
-Batemans Bay Mini Golf

Jervis Bay, New South Wales

Jervis Bay is a stunning region lined with white sand beaches and landscapes to explore. While visiting, be sure to stop over at the Booderee botanic gardens for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Also, don’t forget to jump into nature within the Booderee National Park and explore the handful of walking trails. Moreover, the white sands walk is a beautiful coastal track.

Finally, Cave beach and Hyams beach are two of the most popular swimming locations among locals and tourists. Jervis Bay is one of my favourite destinations along the East Coast of Australia.

Places to visit:
-Cape St George Lighthouse
-Hyams Beach
-Cave Beach
-Booderee National Park

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is effortlessly one of the most beautiful cities in Australia. There are a vast array of tourist attractions and locations to visit.

While driving up to Sydney, don’t forget to cross the Sea Cliff bridge. Furthermore, this bridge curves around the cliffs and takes you over the ocean; Truly a magnificent experience for people of all ages.

Of course, you can’t miss out on the well-known Bondi Beach. Be sure to spend some time at this iconic location to soak up some sun and catch an insight into a Syndey-siders lifestyle.

Also, while in Sydney, be sure to head out towards the Blue Mountains National Park for an extensive range of hiking trails, waterfalls and lookouts. Finally, this is one of the best day trips from Sydney.

Places to visit:
-Bondi Beach
-Sea Cliff Bridge
-Sydney Opera House
-Sydney Harbour bridge
-Manly Ferry
-Figure Eight Pools

Newcastle, New South Wales

Newcastle is one of the ‘lowkey’ cities in New South Wales. This location is the perfect single night stopover location along your East coast road trip.

Moreover, one of the best beach locations in Newcastle is Merewether beach. This spot is a popular location for surfing and enjoying the outdoors. Not to mention, Bathers Way is a fantastic walking trail to appreciate the coastline.

Finally, be sure to visit Myall Lakes National Park for epic jungle vibes, sand dunes and coastal scenery.

Places to visit:
-Newcastle memorial walk
-Merewether Ocean Bath
-Nobbys Lighthouse
-Bathers Way Coastal Walk
-Darby Street
-Lake Macquarie

Port Macquarie, New South Wales

There are various things to do while visiting Port Macquarie. Some of which include getting out in nature and investigating the history of the town.

Moreover, the relaxing coastal suburbs make it a great place to stop for a few nights while observing what this town provides.

Not to mention, they have a few unique attractions, including a Koala hospital that’s open to the public. This rehabilitation centre is great to experience a close encounter with koalas.

Also, another note-worthy location is the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre. Undertake a stroll on the 1.3km boardwalk, situated close to the ocean, within a compact rainforest.

Places to visit:
-Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
-Shelly Beach
-Tacking Point Lighthouse
-Port Macquarie Museum
-Koala Hospital
-Rocky Beach Lookout

Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay is one of Australias most recognised ‘hippie‘ locations. This coastal town is one of the best places to visit along the Australian East Coast since there are many gorgeous beaches and a relaxing atmosphere.

If you’ve got a drone, you’re not going to want to miss taking a photo of one of Byron’s iconic locations, The Pass. Fly high during sunrise or sunset to capture the waves rolling in while the sky is coloured pastel.

Also, hang around Apex Park for lunch and enjoy local artists and performers that occasionally put on a show.

Finally, for those interested in the alternative music scene, Byron Bay is home to the Coachella of Australia, Splendour in the grass. This music festival runs during July and is a fantastic event to add to your list.

Places to visit:
-Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk
-The Pass
-Wategos Beach
-Fisherman’s Lookout
-Apex Park

Gold Coast, Queensland

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Besides, the region includes a range of stretching beaches, theme parks, tourist attractions and shopping locations.

However, there are also numerous places to visit outside of the Gold Coast. Some of those include the Sunshine Coast, Glass House Mountains, Noosa, Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island.

Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island are a 4-hour drive north of the Gold Coast. Therefore making them an awesome road trip adventure after exploring the Gold Coast. Not to mention, these are two popular destinations for a road trip along the East Coast.

Places to visit:
-Sunshine Coast
-Glass House Mountains
-Fraser Island
-Noosa
-Rainbow Beach
-Surfers Paradise
-Cavill Avenue

Rockhampton, Queensland

Rockhampton is a small municipality near the central coast of Queensland. However, before arriving at Rockhampton, stop in at Seventeen Seventy, an idyllic coastal town. During the visit, take a walk through the Paperbark forest boardwalk.

Next, Yeppoon is one of the most popular seaside locations for the locals of Rockhampton, a stunning beach with turquoise waters.

Not to mention, the Rockhampton Heritage Village is a great tourist location since it displays moments of history from 1850-1950. While visiting, you will get the chance to view vintage vehicles, old-fashioned buildings, blacksmith shops, cottages, vintage machinery and more.

Finally, the Blackdown Tableland National Park makes for the perfect day trip from Rocky. Moreover, there are countless swimming holes, waterfalls, hiking trails and lookouts to enjoy.

Places to visit:
-Rockhampton Heritage Village
-Rockhampton Botanic Gardens
-Mount Archer
-Archer Park Rail Museum
-Sleipner Lookout
-Blackdown Tableland National Park

Airlie Beach, Queensland

Another fantastic location along the East Coast of Australia is Airlie Beach. Moreover, this tiny town offers easy access to some of the best locations in Australia.

Not to mention, the Whitsundays are only a short boat ride or plane flight away for a sneaky getaway. Or, enjoy a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands.

I would recommend splurging on a day cruise since many tours are available, resulting in competitive prices. Therefore, you will enjoy a magnificent day out on the water in a picturesque location.

Finally, for a relaxing day after travelling the East Coast, spend a day at Boathaven Beach soaking up the rays and enjoy the peaceful location.

Places to visit:
-Whitsunday Island
-Great Barrier Reef
-Boathaven Beach
-Airlie Beach Lagoon

Book a cruise at Airlie Beach
Read more: 11 Things to Do in Hamilton Island

Townsville, Queensland

A short road trip from Airlie Beach will land you in Townsville. This town has a lot more happening and is another hot tourist destination for local and international travellers.

Spend an afternoon hanging out at the idyllic Strand Park for beautiful views, a walk along the jetty and views to Magnetic Island.

Also, you can head up to Castle Hill Lookout for epic views over the township and bay area.

Additionally, for an extra bit of adventure, plan a trip to Magnetic Island for a day trip or spend a couple of days exploring.

Places to visit:
-Strand Park
-Billabong Sanctuary
-Museum of Tropical Queensland
-The Palmetum
-Magnetic Island
-Castle Hill Lookout

Read more: Holiday Ideas: Queensland

Cairns, Queensland

Last on the East Coast adventure is Cairns. However, this town has plenty to offer and is not to be taken lightly!

Start by exploring the extensive range of waterfalls, including Barron Falls, Stoney Creek Falls, Crystal Cascade and Isabella Falls. Or head up to the Daintree Rainforest for the ultimate adventure.

The Daintree Rainforest is the worlds oldest rainforest and is home to some of the most spectacular nature and wildlife. Additionally, the Mossman Gorge isn’t far off and is another favourite sightseer location.

Finally, enjoy some time at Port Douglas and grab some lunch to savour along Four Mile Beach. This truly makes Cairns an ideal base for exploring some of the most magnificent parts of Australia.

Places to visit:
-Crystal Cascades
-Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
-Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
-Clohesy River Fig Tree
-Port Douglas
-Mossman Gorge
-Daintree Rainforest

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, your road trip along the East Coast of Australia is sure to be magnificent if you include a majority of these destinations. The coastline is packed with fantastic beaches, national parks, historical buildings, museums, and so much more.

However, it’s best to take the journey slowly to appreciate everything this road trip provides. Moreover, you can incorporate this guide into your itinerary plans and alter it to suit your needs, timeframe and travel direction.

Finally, bookmark this page for later viewing as you travel along the East Coast. Alternatively, take notes and add them to your itinerary.

Which locations have sparked your interest? Have you discovered some new places that you’d like to visit?