So you are driving with the family from Sydney to Brisbane (or from Brisbane to Sydney.) How wonderful! Could I hitch a ride?
There are dozens of beaut places to stop on this journey of around 950km, known as the Legendary Pacific Drive. Here I’m going to list the places we recommend and then at the bottom of the article, I’ll link to more Sydney to Brisbane itineraries with even more ideas. We are giving you a list of several places to stay overnight, you might need to miss some if you are doing the trip more quickly. You might also choose to spend a couple of nights in some places, especially if you are keen to see more of the sights and relax on your journey.
If you are driving from Brisbane to Sydney, just start at the bottom and work your way up!
The Central Coast
The Central Coast is an excellent stop off for those looking for a short first driving day. There are HEAPS of things to do, beaut beaches, explore the tree tops, shops in cute places and
Visit: Check out our post on the Top 10 Things To Do On the Central Coast
Stay at: NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park at Umina, click to check dates and prices here.
You can read our full review of this fun-filled holiday park and of things to do at Umina and around there here: NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park
Newcastle and the Hunter Valley
Visit: Read our Top 10 Things To Do in Newcastle With Kids and also The Hunter Valley With Kids articles.
Stay: Have a look at the NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park in Newcastle or Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley is also great. So photos from our trip there on this Hunter Valley Ingenia Holidays article here.
Port Stephens
Visit: Dolphins cruises, climb Tomaree Head, camel rides and sand dune fun. Read all about the great things to do at on our article on 15 Things To Do at Port Stephens with Kids here.
Stay at: Shoal Bay Holiday Park
Seal Rocks + Forster
Visit: Enjoy the peace and quiet and the gorgeous beaches at Seal Rocks and visit the Lighthouse. Read here for all the Fun Things To Do With Kids at Forster.
Stay at: Reflections Holiday Park Seal Rocks, newly updated and with great facilities for families.
Port Maquarie
Visit: Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, Billabong Zoo, surf school and beaches, camel safaris, Bago Maze and Timbertown Heritage Theme Park inland at Wauchope. Lovely walks too, a Koalas Sculpture Trail, and the views from Tacking Point Lighthouse are lovey. Pick strawberries and tomatos at Ricardos
Stay at: NRMA Breakwall Holiday Park
South West Rocks
Visit: Find all the cool things to do at South West Rocks on this post here. This is such a beautiful part of NSW.
Stay at: The brilliant Big4 Sunshine Holiday Park, check dates and prices here. Read about our stay at this terrific and so family friendly holiday park here.
Coffs Harbour
Visit: The iconic Big Banana is a must see! Dolphin Marine Magic, Muttonbird Island, the Solitary Islands Aquarium, the Butterfly House, Coffs Coast Camel Rides and Forest Sky Pier.
Stay at: The NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort is super family friendly.
Byron Bay
Visit: The beautiful lighthouse at cape Byron, the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Soak up the relaxed, surfie-hippe vibe of town and explore the stunning beaches, you might see dolphins surfing at Wategos Beach like we once did. Meet the animals, do farm tours and eat out at the delightful The Farm Byron Bay.
Stay at: The beachfront Discovery Park Byron Bay.
The Gold Coast
Visit: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Sea World, Dreamworld, Movie World, Wet ‘n’ Wild.
Read these articles: Things To Do On The Gold Coast With Teenagers
Stay at: NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort or O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
More Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Itineraries
The website Legendary Pacific Coast has very detailed information about the entire coast with more suggested itineraries and hundreds (can be a bit overwhelming) of ideas on where to go and what to do. There is a very detailed online brochure which lists everywhere in great detail. It would be great to have a look at that and then pick up a hard copy once you are in Australia!
So there you go, that’s a very bare bones list of suggestions for the beautiful Sydney to Brisbane drive. I will add in more photos and expand on the suggestions over time. This would also make a good downloadable PDF – but when to find the time!!??
Happy travelling,
PS This post contains some affiliate links meaning that, if you buy an item using the link, a small commission is paid to support Hello Sydney Kids, at no cost to you. Read my full disclosure policy here.
Nothing beats going on waterparks, most especially on holidays. Makes me want to go back to the beach with the whole fam this weekend! Was that actually you riding the camel, Seana?! Looks fun! ?