September 26th, 2024
7 minute read
With a sun-soaked wealth of unique marvels to see in Australia, a mere two weeks may seem overwhelmingly short for a holiday down under. However, with some handy local tips, a bucket list of some unmissable destinations and a map of the East Coast… you really can’t get it wrong.
For a two-week holiday, our local travel experts recommend a Queensland Brisbane to Cairns road trip, with stops in Noosa, K’gari (Fraser Island), Airlie Beach and of course the Great Barrier Reef.
Stick to the golden sands, wander through tropical rainforests, sail through lush islands, spot kangaroos and swim in crystal-clear oceans on your unforgettable Aussie holiday in just 14 days with our two-week itinerary guide.
20 hours of driving all up
Day 1 |
BrisbaneA vibrant and funky city, renowned for its visitor-friendly size, meandering river and awesome nightlife. What to do in Brisbane for a day.
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Day 2 |
NoosaA beach bum’s heaven-on-earth, Noosa is a coastal gem renowned amongst surfers, backpackers and avid brunchers alike! How to spend a day in Noosa
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Day 3 |
Rainbow BeachRainbow Beach is so much more than just a gateway to K’gari (Fraser Island)! Discover local beaches, mesmerising sand formations and colourful boutiques in this holiday hotspot. What to do in Rainbow Beach for the day
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Trip over to K’gari by Inskip Point ferry (20 mins) |
Day 4, 5 & 6 |
K’gari (Fraser Island)The world’s largest sand island and a natural cornucopia of gem-coloured lakes and rainforests, K’gari (Fraser Island) is an incredibly lush and breathtaking corner of Australia! On a 3-day, 2-night guided 4WD camping tour, you will:
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Day 7 |
Travel northThe biggest leg of your QLD road trip will be between Rainbow Beach and Airlie Beach, so buckle up, chuck on your favourite music and enjoy the journey on your way to tropical paradise! Whether you're choosing van life, renting a car or catching the Greyhound bus, kick back and don't forget to take in the view! |
Drive from Rainbow Beach to Airlie Beach (11 hours) |
Day 8 |
Airlie BeachA gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach is a total travellers hub where there’s also a cocktail on the agenda and live music in the streets! How to spend a day in Airlie Beach:
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Day 9, 10 & 11 |
Whitsunday IslandsYour visit to Airlie Beach would not be complete without a visit to the Whitsunday Islands, where searene coves, exquisite views and abundant marine life await. All aboard and welcome those glam island vibes as you hit the water! On a 3-day, 2-night sailing tour, you will:
Check out our favourite, jam-packed experiences in the Whitsundays. |
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Day 12 |
CairnsCairns is the heart of Far North Queensland, a gorgeous tropical town with ethereal nature in every direction, from the Daintree Rainforest’s waterfalls to the Barrier Reef’s coral gardens! How to spend a day in Cairns:
Check out our guide of things to do in Cairns and have a blast in this tropical hub! |
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Day 13 |
Great Barrier Reef TourThe Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s seven natural wonders, and the magic below is simply mesmerising! Dive in and rub shoulders with a kaleidoscope of corals, majestic sea turtles and oodles of fish. On a day tour out to the reef from Cairns, you’ll get to:
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Day 14 |
Atherton Tablelands WaterfallsCairns is home to the Daintree Rainforest, an ancient ecosystem of towering trees, sprawling greenery and cascading waterfalls. Whether you’re on a self-drive waterfall adventure or a guided tour, explore:
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"The most glamorous option"
If you’re a traveller who values freedom and flexibility, renting a vehicle is the best option for you. Travel at your own pace, on your own time with your own playlist blasting as you wind down coastal roads. Stay at local accommodations every night and see the best of the East Coast!
Check out our affordable and spacious car rental options.
"The nomad option"
That’s right, this is your sign to van life along the East Coast! Combine accommodation and transport as you make your way along the coast, surfing, eating, sleeping and repeating! The perfect options for solo travellers and couples, make some unforgettable memories as you catch every sunrise and sunset and do your down-under trip outdoors!
Check out our campervan guide for the best tips and campsites, as well as our backpacker-friendly campervan rentals!
"The cheapest option"
For those budget backpackers, it is totally possible to traverse the East Coast by bus, and there are plenty of excellent coach services like Greyhound and Premier that will get you from A to B. Perfect for those wanting to take the passenger seat and save some dollars, get back to basics and catch the bus.
Check out our handy bus passes, or browse our itineraries which all come with coach transport included!
Yes, you should book an itinerary when you visit Australia. More than anything, booking an itinerary means you're assured awesome experiences like sailing, diving and wildlife tours that you may otherwise miss out on. If you’re a fan of seamless travel, package deals and 24/7 on-the-ground support, booking an itinerary is a simple, easy and affordable way to travel the East Coast!
Check out our pre-designed 14-day Brisbane to Cairns or reversed 14-day Cairns to Brisbane itineraries, or customise your trip with our handy itinerary-building tool! The magic of Australia beckons, so make your next overseas adventure full of the best experiences possible!