Sydney to Cairns Road Trip

A road trip from Sydney to Cairns is hands-down one of the most iconic trips that you can take through Australia. Spanning more than 2,400km from one city to the other, this drive takes you up the country’s stunning east coast. Stopping off at all sorts of tropical beach towns, bustling cities, and thriving rainforests along the way - not to mention its proximity to the one and only Great Barrier Reef - this is the ultimate road trip for those looking to make the most of their time Down Under! So, dig out that backpack and splash out on sunscreen because we’ve got all the info you need to set off on your Sydney to Cairns adventure!

Is it Worth Driving to Cairns from Sydney?

Yes, driving from Sydney to Cairns is absolutely worth it, as long as you give yourself enough time to enjoy it. While some travellers might prefer to fly or catch the bus from one destination to another, there are lots of advantages to doing this journey as a road trip.

Not only do you get to choose your itinerary based on your budget, bucket list, and time frame, but you also get the rare opportunity to uncover all sorts of stunning hidden gems along the way! If you want to get the most out of your East Coast visit, a road trip is the way to go.

Towns and cities along the coast are particularly used to tourists, backpackers, and visitors, so you'll come across plenty of accommodation options, filling stations, fun-filled tours and activities, campsites, and eateries along the way.

Lots of people set off on Sydney to Cairns (or Cairns to Sydney) road trips year-round, and stop off at a lot of the same hot spots. As a result, you're bound to bump into some familiar faces or make some friends along the way. Another perk of taking a road trip up the East Coast is that, at the drop of a hat, you can rearrange your journey, extend your stay in a certain destination, book a new tour, or reserve new accommodation as you meet new people on your travels.

How Many Days to Travel from Sydney to Cairns?

How many days you spend driving from Sydney to Cairns is entirely dependent on you! Driving directly from Sydney to Cairns without a break would take around 30 hours. Of course, a fun road trip will ideally include some stops along the way for activities, exploration, food, and at least a little bit of sleep!

While deciding how long your road trip should last, ask yourself: How long would you like to spend travelling? Which East Coast destinations would you like to visit along the way, and how long would you like to spend at each one? What are some activities you just can’t miss along the East Coast, and what’s the availability like for each one?

If you’re short on time, you could do a whistle-stop tour through the key East Coast spots in two weeks. But if you want to be more flexible with your itinerary and give yourself enough time to see all of the best bits, we recommend dedicating five weeks to this road trip. Be warned, though: the more time you spend uncovering Australia, the more tempted you’ll be to stay!

Where Should I Stop Between Sydney and Cairns?

There are so many breathtaking stops you could make during the drive from Sydney to Cairns that, if you stopped at all of them, your road trip might never end! However, there are some essential East Coast stops that you just can’t miss. 

Where to stop between Sydney and Cairns

Sydney

Australia’s largest city and one of the most popular starting points for those hoping to travel Down Under. Stop off at its famous beaches like Bondi and Manly, and be sure to get your photos at world-famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge! This bustling, vibrant city is the perfect starting point for an East Coast tour, complete with stunning coastal walks, brilliant day trips, perfect surf, fun nightlife, and top-tier entertainment.

Byron Bay

Become one with the laid-back hippy atmosphere of Byron Bay, do the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse walk, check out eclectic local boutiques and markets, and take advantage of the coastal town’s excellent surfing.

Noosa

Noosa is famous for its relaxing, beachy atmosphere, its excellent selection of restaurants, shops, and cafes, and its natural beauty. Visitors are urged to check out the breathtaking coastal walk and explore the Noosa Everglades while they’re in town.

Gold Coast

The next major city along the East Coast after Sydney is the Gold Coast. Not only does it boast world-famous surfing spots and a thriving nightlife scene, but the Gold Coast is home to the best theme parks in Australia, including Dreamworld and Wet 'n' Wild!

K’gari (Fraser Island)

K’gari is one of the most popular stops along the east coast of Australia thanks to its crystal clear freshwater lakes and thick green rainforests to its 4WD and dingo-spotting opportunities. Go camping in the wilderness, explore the dunes, take a dip in Champagne Pools, and explore an ancient shipwreck while you’re on the island!

Brisbane

You’ll be in search of more crowds and civilisation after a few nights on K’gari, which is why Brisbane is the perfect next stop. Enjoy some great food and indulge in some local arts and culture before taking a trip out to Moreton Island or visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is the gateway to the world-famous Whitsunday Islands, best known for their colourful and lively coral reefs and iconic landmarks like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. Stop by for a few days and book an overnight tour to guarantee you get the very best of the Whitsundays. Visit at the right time of year and you could have an encounter with some humpback whales!

Magnetic Island

Just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island is a beautiful, relaxed destination abundant with Aussie wildlife, beautiful hiking trails, and secluded beaches. Must-see spots include Forts Walk and Horseshoe Bay, while breakfast with koalas is one of the most beloved activities to book!

Cairns

Get the most exceptional views of the jaw-dropping Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, as well as natural wonders like Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. While you’re in the area, be sure to take some time to visit Kuranda - a tropical mountain-top village. If you’re seeking a thrill, try out bungy jumping, river rafting, tubing, or skydiving!

Things to do between Sydney and Cairns

If you’re struggling to choose which stops you should make along the East Coast, it can help to decide what sorts of activities you’d be interested in during your travels.

Those hoping to explore the Great Barrier Reef during their road trip should absolutely stop off in the Whitsundays, Cairns, and Port Douglas for some exceptional scuba diving, snorkelling, and scenic flights. If you’re a thrill-seeker, Byron Bay, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach, and Cairns are the top spots for all things sky-diving and bungee jumping. Surfers can catch the best waves along the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, and in Sydney beaches like Bondi and Manly.

Spend a little more time in the tropical north than in the south if you want to explore the very best rainforests, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes. If you’re interested in living the island life, be sure to carve out time to visit K’gari (Fraser Island), Magnetic Island, Green Island, and Whitsunday Island.

When is the best time for a Sydney to Cairns road trip?

Strictly speaking, there is never a bad time to embark on a road trip from Sydney to Cairns. However, you’ll get to experience the coast at its very best during Australian autumn or spring. It all depends on what your priorities are during your adventure! Check out our full seasonal rundown of the East Coast for a better idea of when would suit you best.

If you have any questions ahead of setting off on your once-in-a-lifetime East Coast Tour, our friendly travel experts are available to chat 24/7.

Build your own East Coast itinerary or take a look through our pre-built itineraries.