Take a Wicked Campervan and cruise the epic Cairns to Sydney coastal route, one of Australia’s most iconic road trips. From tropical North Queensland to sun-drenched New South Wales beaches and vibrant cities, this drive is packed with scenery, adventure and classic Aussie stops.
Tropical Start — Cairns & Far North
Kick off in Cairns, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests and waterfalls. Head south along the Bruce Highway, soaking up rainforest views, coastlines and relaxed beach towns on the way.
Townsville & Whitsundays
Next up is Townsville, a laid-back city where you can visit Magnetic Island or relax on the Strand. Further down, Airlie Beach is your gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, perfect for a reef day trip, sailing or snorkelling.
Sunshine Coast & K’Gari
Continue through coastal Queensland to the Sunshine Coast. Noosa Heads is ideal for beach walks and cute coastal town vibes. Nearby Hervey Bay gives access to K’Gari, a unique sand island with freshwater lakes and dunes (note: visiting K’Gari requires booking a tour at an extra fee and we do NOT allow our vehicles on the island).
Brisbane & South-East Coast
Hop into Brisbane for city culture, riverfront dining and parks. From here the Pacific Highway leads you deeper into NSW with plenty of seaside stops on the way south.
Mid-North Coast & Beaches
Explore classic NSW coastal towns like Coffs Harbour with its pristine beaches and the Big Banana landmark, then keep rolling through scenic spots ideal for surfing, sea swims and chilled breaks.
Port Macquarie & Port Stephens
Further down, consider a stop in Port Macquarie for coastal walks and wildlife spotting. Port Stephens, a little closer to Sydney, offers golden beaches, dolphin watching and the impressive Stockton Sand Dunes.
Finish in Sydney
Your trip ends in Sydney, a vibrant harbour city with iconic beaches, world-class dining and endless culture. Cruise over the Harbour Bridge or stroll Bondi Beach to cap your coast-to-coast adventure.
Quick Road Trip Tips
- Plan your time: This is a long haul, at least 10–14+ days lets you enjoy key stops without rushing.
- Fuel & breaks: You’ll cover ~2,800 km along the coastal route, so plan regular fuel and rest stops.
- Book ahead: Popular spots like the Whitsundays, Noosa and Coffs Harbour fill up quickly in peak seasons.
- Wildlife caution: Be careful driving at dawn/dusk, local wildlife can appear on roads near town exits and national parks.
- Campground tips: Coastal caravan parks near beaches, rainforests or river mouths make great overnight stops.
This Cairns → Sydney drive showcases tropical reefs, world-class beaches, city life and classic Aussie coastal towns, pack up the campervan and make it yours!